Showing posts with label Crossroads Regional Chamber. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Crossroads Regional Chamber. Show all posts

Friday, June 10, 2022

Pfizer plans $120M expansion for COVID pill manufacturing at Michigan facility; Join us for the Muskego Chamber's 2022 Chamber Jazz Dinner Cruise Social; The Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce Community Guide; Crossroads Regional: From The Chamber; Dubuque Area Chamber: Inside the Chamber Lobby; The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce Community Map; Chamber Event: Greater Starkville Development Partnership: Mississippi State University Student Athletes and How they can Benefit Your Business: Tune In to Find Out How!; 2022 Best Places to Work in Kentucky Rankings Announced; Reston Chamber: Join us at Google!; 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!; Expand your chamber's footprint with LinkedIn: Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce

Pfizer plans $120M expansion for COVID pill manufacturing at Michigan facility


Pfizer is planning to invest another $120 million into its Kalamazoo-area manufacturing facility in an effort to expand production of its antiviral COVID drug, Paxlovid.
The pharmaceutical company said its latest expansion will create 250 new jobs and ramp up production of Paxlovid, an oral COVID-19 treatment available under emergency use authorization for people 12 and older with mild to moderate illness who are considered high risk of severe illness.
Pfizer announced plans to expand manufacturing capacity of Paxlovid last month, and shared more details Monday, June 6, during a press event at the company’s Portage campus. Production of Paxlovid is already underway and will be expanded over the next year, explained Mike McDermot, Pfizer’s chief global supply officer. Read more: M LIVE


Join us for the Muskego Chamber's 2022 Chamber Jazz Dinner Cruise Social

Date: July 22, 2022
Time: 06:45 PM - 09:00 PM CDT

The Muskego Chamber Board of Directors invites you to a Jazz Dinner Cruise!
Lake Geneva Cruise Line “Grand Belle” Boat ~ Friday, July 22, 2022
6:45 p.m. Boarding ~ 7:00 to 9:30 p.m. Cruise
Plan ahead for parking and traffic. For parking visit: www.cityoflakegeneva.com
Menu and Boat Details:
Summer Berry Salad with Berry Poppy Seed Vinaigrette, Coffee, Iced Tea
Duet Plate of Petite Steak & Chicken Cordon Bleu, Smashed Yukon Gold Potatoes
Chef’s Choice of Vegetables, Bakery Rolls, New York Style Cheesecake with Sauce
Climate controlled, enclosed boat with restrooms, Full Bar (cash/credit card)


The Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce Community Guide

The Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce Community Guide is available at the chamber today ! Thanks to Maggie Dobson and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together! 



A Guide to Cedarburg

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.


Crossroads Regional: From The Chamber


 



Crossroads Regional Chamber Members and Community:

The 2022 Annual Corn Roast was a huge success! Thank you to all of our sponsors, volunteers and those who came out to support!

We are thrilled to be honoring 3 local seniors this year with a $1000 scholarship per student. If you are interested in sponsoring a student please let me know. The checks will be presented to the students at the June monthly program.

The Golf Outing is July 25 at Innsbrook Country Club! We are making some changes to this fun day! Please check out the information below and register for a foursome and or sponsorship.

Looking for a way to promote your business? Consider adding promotional items or literature to our new member welcome gifts. We provide a gift bag full of items for all new members. We ask for 30 - 50 items, please drop off at the chamber office or we will happily pick up!

We appreciate all of our members and their continued support. Please let us know how we can help you.

At Your Service,


Deann Patena
President/CEO

Dubuque Area Chamber: Inside the Chamber Lobby


LEGISLATIVE UPDATE


The legislature adjourned at 12:16am last Wednesday, calling the 2022 session of the 89th General Assembly to a close.

Throughout session the Dubuque Area Chamber of Commerce fought on behalf of our members to support workforce solutions, promote economic development, and reduce regulation and taxes on our member businesses.

Most notably, the legislature passed a historic tax cut for Iowa families and business owners. On the individual side we will see all Iowan’s paying a flat, fair rate of 3.9% by 2026. Corporate taxes will also fall over the course of the coming years from our current 9.8% (ranked 46th in the country) to 5.5%, one of the most competitive rates in the region. The legislature also passed long advocated for changes to aircraft parts and labor sales taxes on general aviation vehicles, allowing the Dubuque Regional Airport to maintain a competitive position with other regional airports in neighboring states – this bill awaits signature by the governor.

With workforce issues continued to slow the growth of business, we worked hard to promote pro-business workforce policies to reduce barriers to employment and support workers re-entering the workforce. An end of year deal included the Iowa Employer Child Tax Credit program which will provide more than $2 million to support a credit of 10-25% on qualified employer expenses to support employee access to childcare – this deal still awaits final signature by the Governor. Childcare providers now have more flexibility in hiring and staffing their rooms after the legislature increased the staffing ratios for 2- and 3-year-old care to align with national averages and allowed 16- and 17-year-old professionals to staff rooms without supervision.

The Chamber also supported legislation to expand access to the last-dollar scholarship by allowing part-time and summer students to fully access the benefits of the program, which were previously reserved for full-time students. The education appropriations legislation maintains a significant increase in funding for the last dollar scholarship program and increased the Iowa Tuition Grant – which supports Iowa’s private colleges including Loras College, Clarke University, and University of Dubuque – by around $1.3 million.

We also fought hard for our small business owners in the restaurant and hospitality industry, supporting efforts to better regulate third-party delivery services and protect restauranteurs intellectual property and liability in such transactions. We also supported efforts to simplify the three-tier alcohol system in Iowa. Both efforts have passed and await signature by the governor.

This year’s legislative session lasted much longer than we had thought it would but significant work on behalf of Iowans and the business community was accomplished. We look forward to continuing to advance the priorities of the business community and will continue to advocate for workforce solutions as our businesses continue to struggle hiring and retaining top talent.

We thank our local legislative delegation: Senator Pam Jochum, Senator Carrier Koelker, Representative Shannon Lundgren, Representative Lindsay James, Representative Steve Bradley, and Representative Chuck Isenhart for their dedication to serving Iowa and Dubuque County residents.

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

The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce Community Map

The Eau Claire Area Chamber Community Map is now available at the Chamber today! Thanks to David Minor, Chrystal Mills and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!


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. 


Chamber Event: Greater Starkville Development Partnership: Mississippi State University Student Athletes and How they can Benefit Your Business: Tune In to Find Out How!

Dear Members of the Partnership:

College Athletics have changed dramatically in the last 12 months. The Name, Image, and Likeness for athletes and/or teams can be a powerful way of promoting you and your business. Some Starkville businesses have already partnered with MSU athletes to endorse their products and services and it may be more affordable than you think.

The Partnership is pleased to virtually host a meeting to explain the new changes in college athletics and the potential benefits. Charlie Winfield of the Winfield Law Firm will be with us on June 22nd at 12:00p to explain the new opportunities that exist for athletes and business owners. Charlie has devoted a significant portion of his practice to advising clients on issues related to intercollegiate athletics, including NCAA compliance matters. In addition to broadcasting MSU Sports and the Out of Left Field podcast, Charlie is the founder of The Bulldog Initiative, LLC, an entity that seeks to provide athletes with the opportunity to earn compensation in exchange for the use of their Name, Image, and Likeness.

Whether you're an SEC sports fan or a business owner looking for new marketing opportunities, this webinar will be of interest. Registration is required so please click the link below to register as soon as possible: https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/registertZwvdOmspzwjG9UJmeuCTRgWl1utspNCYMLX After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Thanks and we look forward to connecting on June 22nd!

Thanks!

My Best,

Hunter Harrington
Director of Membership Development
200 East Main Street | Starkville, MS | 39759
Phone (662) 323-3322 | Fax (662) 323-5815
starkville.org


2022 Best Places to Work in Kentucky Rankings Announced

Envoy Mortgage, Ltd., ARGI, and Alpha Business Acquisitions, Inc. take top honors

Frankfort, Ky. (June 9, 2022) – Envoy Mortgage, Ltd., ARGI, and Alpha Business Acquisitions, Inc. were ranked the 2022 Best Places to Work in Kentucky by the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce and the Kentucky Society for Human Resource Management (KYSHRM).

During the 18th Annual Best Places to Work in Kentucky awards ceremony, presented by ClearPath Mutual Insurance Company, more than 900 attendees joined in celebrating the 100 Kentucky companies recognized for their commitment to focus, measure and move their workplace environments toward excellence.

The companies who made the 2022 list were announced in March and the ranked list was announced on stage at the awards ceremony. The 100 winning companies participated in a comprehensive survey process and were then ranked according to those results. The list consists of three categories: small companies of 15-149 employees, medium companies of 150-499 employees and large companies consisting of more than 500 employees (categories based on number of U.S. employees, only Kentucky employees surveyed).

Envoy Mortgage, Ltd., the top winner in the large category, is a privately owned mortgage bank that is 100% focused on residential lending. They provide home loans throughout the U.S. for consumers looking to purchase a home or refinance into a more favorable financial situation. Envoy Mortgage, Ltd has made the list for six years and was previously ranked sixth in the large category.

ARGI, the top winner in the medium category, has a mission to improve the lives of their clients, colleagues, and communities through their heart of service. Unlike many financial services companies, they have embraced a ‘we before me’ approach to service, utilizing a team of advisors and consultants to service their clients’ needs, instead of relying on the knowledge or skills of a single advisor. ARGI has made the list for 11 years and was previously ranked seventh in the medium category.

Alpha Business Acquisitions, Inc., the top winner in the small category, provides the upmost quality sales experience to customers, extensive training, growth, and friendly culture to employees, and long-term retention of customers to our clients. They go above and beyond to develop their team in sales, customer service, and leadership training to all hit their goals individually and as a team. Alpha Business Acquisitions, Inc. has made the list for three years and last year was previously ranked 20th in the small category.

Now in its 18th year, the Best Places to Work in Kentucky program has recognized a combined 333 unique Kentucky companies with 243 of those making the list more than once. Special recognition to the two companies that have made the list all 18 years - Dean Dorton and KORT.

The Kentucky Society for Human Resource Management (KYSHRM) state council and the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce are proud to host the Best Places initiative, as both organizations support the value of workplace excellence as a key component in moving Kentucky forward.

“HR professionals are the CEO's strategic partner in creating an adaptive advantage for Kentucky's employers. The Best Places to Work in Kentucky program recognizes those employers who set an exemplary standard of excellence for both employee engagement and business success,” said KYSHRM Chair, Amanda Huddleston, SHRM-CP, CSP.

According to Kentucky Chamber President and CEO, Ashli Watts, “In order to help Kentucky’s economy thrive, we must be able to educate and employ current Kentuckians, while also creating workplaces that attract talent from outside of the state. The Best Places program does just that.”

For more details about Best Places to Work in Kentucky, visit bestplacestoworkkentucky.com.

Click here to view the 2022 magazine.


Reston Chamber: Join us at Google!

We’re excited to have this networking event LIVE at the Google office in Reston next Thursday!

Representatives from Google will:

· Share resources for small businesses

· Discuss resources for non-profits

· Highlight how to make sure your business shows up on Google Maps

· Provide an overview of other training options

· Answer your questions!

Come for the great networking and education, and stick around for a short tour!

As the event host, Google requires you to show proof of Covid-19 vaccination and a photo ID to attend this event.

Register Today!


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!



Expand your chamber's footprint with LinkedIn: Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce

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Tuesday, November 16, 2021

Eric Spoonmore named the President and CEO of the Greater Bloomington Chamber; From The Crossroads Regional Chamber: Shop Local Saturday; Cedarburg Chamber: Small Business Saturday is November 27, 2021! Shenandoah County Chamber Business After Hours; SBA Richmond - Upcoming Events and Webinars; #Chamber Heart: Front Royal-Warren County Salvation Army kettle campaign; #BestChamber Practices: Members for Life - Help your Members market themselves by utilizing co-op advertising funds; Job Openings in #ChamberWorld Virginia Executive Director - Goochland Chamber of Commerce - Goochland, VA - $30,000 - $35,000; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Incredible Maps and Community Profiles: The best Chamber Publishing Partner in the United States!

 

Eric Spoonmore named the President and CEO of the Greater Bloomington Chamber
Bloomington Eric
Eric Spoonmore has been named the President and CEO of the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce. Spoonmore formally accepted the offer extended by the organization’s board of directors. He will assume his new duties December 1, 2021. The announcement was made today by Chamber board chair Amy Somers Kopp.

Spoonmore currently serves as Monroe County Council President and as an Associate Director for Enrollment Management for the Kelley Direct MBA and MS Programs at the Indiana University Kelley School of Business in Bloomington. He received his Master’s degree in Public Affairs with a concentration in Local Government Management and a Bachelor’s of Science is in Public Affairs at the Indiana University O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs. Spoonmore is resigning from the Monroe County Council effective November 30, 2021.

“It is an extraordinary honor to have been selected as the next President and CEO of the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce,” said Spoonmore. “I am excited to begin this next phase of service in my career, and I look forward to working with the Chamber Board, our talented staff, and all our existing and future members to build upon the myriad successes achieved throughout our impressive 106-year history.” 

“Eric will bring a wonderful perspective to the Chamber gained from his vast experience in county government and experience at Indiana University,” said Somers Kopp. “We believe he is the perfect fit for continuing to keep the Chamber at the forefront of building a strong and stable business community in Monroe County.”
​
The national executive search for The Chamber’s new President and CEO began in the summer of 2021 after Erin Predmore announced her impeding transition away from her role. Predmore will continue to lead the Chamber through the transition and will step down as President and CEO in December.

From The Crossroads Regional Chamber: Shop Local Saturday
Crossraods - Deann
Crossroads Regional Chamber Members and Community:
 
We will be supporting Shop Local Saturday this year on November 27. We are including "Members Only" on the shopping passport. Please call the Chamber office if you would like to put a special shopping deal on the passport to be redeem on November 27 only.
Please remember to update your information in the chamber membership portal to ensure everyone is receiving our information. It is never too late to get involved and join a committee. Another opportunity in your chamber portal is posting your available job positions.
 
We are nearly the end of the year, but we still have several events coming up.
Please see below all we have to offer and plan to join us.
 
Another opportunity in your chamber portal is posting your available job positions.
 
Please let us know if we can assist in anyway.
 
We hope to see you all at the Members Matters Mixer tomorrow night from 4:00pm - 6:00pm. Come enjoy food from Asparagus, One13North and much more!
 
Best Regards,
 
Deann Patena
President/CEO
 

Cedarburg Chamber: Small Business Saturday is November 27, 2021!

The Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce is the official Neighborhood Champion for Cedarburg's Small Business Saturday campaign through American Express again this year!

We expect the usual box of swag from AMEX coming soon!

Sign on to be a part of our Neighborhood Champion campaign by giving us some information about how important local support is to your business.

Each business that signs up will receive an individual post on our Facebook and Instagram pages leading up to Small Business Saturday using the template above, at no charge to you!

We'll also compile any special Small Business Saturday events you tell us about and add them to Cedarburg.org!

Again in 2021, the Chamber has partnered with Port Washington State Bank on Small Business Saturday! This year, in an even further effort to keep dollars in Cedarburg, we're giving away $500 in Cedarburg Chamber Gift Checks on November 27 to unsuspecting shoppers throughout the community.

Use our strong Facebook and internet presence to help promote your business this year. Help us make 2021 our best Small Business Saturday yet!

Tell us why local support is important

This free promotion is open to any member of the Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce. Questions? Contact Maggie at director@cedarburg.org

Shenandoah County Chamber Business After Hours

Shenandoah County Chamber of Commerce will host Business After Hours from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Triplett Tech in Mount Jackson. The event will include the school’s culinary department serving a fundraising spaghetti dinner.

SBA Richmond - Upcoming Events and Webinars

Wednesday, November 17, 2021 - 12:00pm EST
SBA Sponsored
Thursday, November 18, 2021 - 12:00pm EST
SBA Sponsored
Friday, November 19, 2021 - 12:00pm EST
SBA Participating


#Chamber Heart: Front Royal-Warren County Salvation Army kettle campaign


The Salvation Army Front Royal Corps is gearing up for its annual Red Kettle campaign, with its cheerful bells ringing out in front of various store fronts throughout the Christmas season.
The campaign will kick off at 10 a.m. on Nov. 12 in front of Rural King in Front Royal with a ribbon-cutting ceremony by the Front Royal Chamber of Commerce to kick off the holiday season.
To be successful and provide this level of assistance, the Kettle Campaign relies on organizations to “adopt” days as well as individual volunteers. This year, those who would like to sign up can do so online at www.RegisterToRing.com. This website even allows you to sign up as a “virtual” bell-ringer, hosting a fundraiser online to garner support from your family and friends.
The Salvation Army Front Royal Corps supports those in need with rent/mortgage assistance, utility assistance, hygiene items, clothing and food in the counties of Warren, Page and Rappahannock and the town of Strasburg. Information: Capt. Ann Hawk at 540-635-4020.
#BestChamber Practices: Members for Life - Help your Members market themselves by utilizing co-op advertising funds

November is National Healthy Skin Month

This Month's category: Hair & Beauty Care -

Click for list of manufacturers offering co-op advertising programs


General questions about finding Co-op Advertising for your members, email John Dussman - jdussman@tspubs.com with Subject line: Finding Co-op Advertising
Job Openings in #ChamberWorld Virginia

Executive Director - Goochland Chamber of Commerce -
Goochland, VA - $30,000 - $35,000

Job Description
The Executive Director is responsible for managing the operational aspects of the Goochland Chamber of Commerce in alignment with the Chamber By-Laws and Policies & Procedures at the direction of the Board of Directors. The Director represents the Chamber to the Goochland community in a professional manner. This role serves a critical Chamber function of actively engaging existing and prospective members to promote the role of the Chamber and to continually seek new ways to advance the Chamber Mission in Goochland County and surrounding communities. The Director is responsible for hiring and supervising office staff. Read more: Goochland Chamber

 Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Incredible Maps and Community Profiles: The best Chamber Publishing Partner in the United States!


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

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. Thank you!

Monday, January 11, 2021

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) will re-open the week of January 11; Effingham County Chamber President & CEO Norma Lansing Announces Retirement; Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce 2020 Community Profile & Membership Directory; Greater Owensboro Chamber Kentucky General Assembly Update: Senate Bill 5 Provides Business Liability Protection; Crossroads Regional Chamber: From the Prez; Mequon-Thiensville Chamber of Commerce Community Profile and Membership Directory; Clarkston Area Chamber and the Oakland Chamber Network: PPP, EIDL, & SBA Resources for Small Biz; GRAC: Results of the 2021 West Michigan Business Advocacy Survey are in; Roanoke Regional Partnership names new executive director - John Hull succeeds Beth Doughty; Portage County Business Council Welcomes New Board Members and Officers; Gift Ideas Under $50 That Support Oxford Businesses; MGC Chamber: Mardi Gras t-shirt sales will continue in Pass Christian; Southeast Kentucky Chamber virtual meeting: Kentucky Chamber shares legislative hopes for 2021 session, provides insight on covid-19 relief; Danville Boyle County Chamber of Commerce Community Map; Kentucky Chamber Paycheck Protection Program Loans Guidance; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Apps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory Sales and Community Profiles: The best Chamber Publishing Partner in the USA!

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

Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) will re-open the week of January 11

The U.S. Small Business Administration, in consultation with the Treasury Department, announced on January 8, that the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) will re-open the week of January 11 for new borrowers and certain existing PPP borrowers. To promote access to capital, initially only community financial institutions will be able to make First Draw PPP Loans on Monday, January 11, and Second Draw PPP Loans on Wednesday, January 13. The PPP will open to all participating lenders shortly thereafter. Updated PPP guidance outlining Program changes to enhance its effectiveness and accessibility was released on January 6 in accordance with the Economic Aid to Hard-Hit Small Businesses, Non-Profits, and Venues Act.

This round of the PPP continues to prioritize millions of Americans employed by small businesses by authorizing up to $284 billion toward job retention and certain other expenses through March 31, 2021, and by allowing certain existing PPP borrowers to apply for a Second Draw PPP Loan.

Learn more


Effingham County Chamber President & CEO Norma Lansing Announces Retirement



The Effingham County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors announces the upcoming retirement of President & CEO Norma Lansing, effective April 30, 2021.

 Lansing has served as President & CEO since 1988.  During her tenure, the Chamber has nearly doubled in membership size, became a county-wide chamber and introduced many key programs including the Chamber Community Scholarship Program that has awarded over $200,000 to local students, the Business Outreach Center which serves local entrepreneurs and business owners with counseling, services and the Cooperative Energy Buying Program, offering business savings on their commercial energy needs. 

 

Under Norma’s leadership, the Chamber has won numerous state, regional and industry awards, including being named national Chamber of the Year in 2020 and the Illinois Chamber of the Year in 2016.   Lansing has built relationships between business, education and government that have resulted in programs such as Effingham County CEO, Effingham County Vision 2020 and Effingham Regional Career Academy.

 She has been the recipient of a leadership award from the Illinois Workforce Partnership, Distinguished Illinois Chamber Executive Award by the Illinois Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, Outstanding Leadership in Community and Economic Development by East Central Illinois Development Corporation and the Vocational Excellence Award by Effingham Noon Rotary.  She is an accredited Illinois Chamber Executive and graduate of the Institute for Organization Management, Basic Economic Development Course and Dale Carnegie training.

 In announcing Lansing’s retirement, Chamber Board Chairman Jeff Speer of ReMax Key Advantage noted, “The Board of Directors and I appreciate the 30 + years of service that Lansing has contributed to the growth and success of the Chamber.  At every meeting, my appreciation of Norma’s leadership and admiration for how much she loves our community grows.

 “We understand that finding Lansing’s replacement will be difficult, but we have been working on this succession plan for nearly two years and are confident that we will attract an experienced and capable individual to lead the Chamber in its role as the leading business development organization in Effingham County”, Speer concluded.

 The Chamber Board has retained Ottsie, LLC, Sally Rutledge Ott, ACE, NFPC, to conduct a search for the next Chamber President & CEO.   For more information, email Sally at effceochamber@gmail.com.


Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce 2020 Community Profile & Membership Directory

The Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce 2020 Community Profile & Membership Directory is available at the Crossroads Regional Chamber today! Thanks to Deann Patena and  the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!!




Crossroads 2020 Community Profile and Membership Directory

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.


Greater Owensboro Chamber Kentucky General Assembly Update: Senate Bill 5 Provides Business Liability Protection 


Many new faces were sworn in this Tuesday, including 22 new representatives and five new senators. That increased the super majority of the Republican Party in both chambers, 75-25 and 30-8, respectively. 

The House announced the following changes to the rules that guide its session: 

Abolished the consent calendar, which grouped bills together under one vote rather than individually considering each bill. 

Bills no longer have to be posted in committee for three days prior to a reading; instead, only one day will be required. Posting of some bills has been waived by legislative leadership in the past, and House Majority Floor Leader Steven Rudy explained that in a short session the rule change will simply forego the need to waive posting. 

Both chambers gave the first of three readings to priority bills today, an atypical move for most opening days. 

The 2021 regular session is a short session with a maximum of 30 legislative days available for the General Assembly to take action. Several legislators have suggested that the calendar will change to include working this Saturday, January 9, along with adding some days next week to pass priority legislation and push the budget process to the front of the session rather than waiting until the final days to do so. 

This year’s legislative session will last 30 working days and is required to end by March 30. 

The legislation being considered is mostly related to limiting Gubernatorial powers. They also deal with the COVID-19 pandemic, abortion and the courts system. Yesterday nine of the 10 bills passed in their respective chambers, putting them track to pass by tomorrow. 

It is anticipated that a majority of the legislation will be vetoed by Beshear. 

However, with super majorities in both chambers of the General Assembly, Republicans have the ability to override any vetoes. 

Summaries of the majority's proposed priority legislation follows: 

HOUSE BILL 1 

Allows businesses and schools to stay open as long as they “meet or exceed” guidance issued by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, detail their plan and post it on their door. Provisions waive interest and penalties on employer’s unpaid unemployment insurance bills until 2022. 

Allows family visitation for children in foster care during an emergency. 

Allows nursing homes residents to have one designated “essential personal care visitor” who would be exempt from any orders preventing visitation in nursing homes. 

HOUSE BILL 2 

Transfers the power to enforce state abortion laws from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to the Attorney General’s office. 

Allows the Attorney General to seek civil and criminal penalties for any violation of the law. 

Defines abortions as “elective” procedures— a response to the COVID-19 shutdown last spring when elective surgeries were suspended but abortions were deemed essential procedures and were allowed to continue. 

HOUSE BILL 3 

Creates three judicial districts spreading the cases filed against state government around the state instead of only in Franklin County Circuit Court. 

The chief justice of the Supreme Court would select one judge from each of the three districts to convene a panel to hear the case. 

The first district includes 54 counties in Western Kentucky (including the Greater Owensboro region counties), the second district includes 13 counties in Central Kentucky and the third district includes 53 counties in Eastern and Northern Kentucky. 


HOUSE BILL 4 (Constitutional amendment requiring voter approval in 2022) 

Our current Constitution requires the General Assembly to finish legislative sessions on March 30 in odd-numbered years and on April 15 in even-numbered years. 

House Bill 4 proposes striking those set dates allowing the legislature to convene at any time of the year and allows 10 extra days per year if approved by three fifths of each chamber of the General Assembly. 

HOUSE BILL 5 

Prohibits governor from temporarily reorganizing the executive branch cabinets, boards, agencies and commissions when the legislature is not in session. 

Keep existing law that requires legislative approval of any changes to the organizational structure of the executive branch. 

SENATE BILL 1 

Proposes placing a 30-day expiration date on any executive order restricting in-person meeting of schools, businesses and religious organizations unless the order is extended by the General Assembly. The bill gives local governments more flexibility for emergency orders they institute. 

Requires approval from the Attorney General if the governor wishes to suspend a statute through executive order during an emergency. 

Requires the governor’s office to give a report every 30 days about the contracts issued and revenues received while the state is under an emergency order. 

SENATE BILL 2 

Provides legislature more oversight over emergency regulations and allows legislative committees to amend the regulations or find them deficient. It also creates provisions allowing public comment on the regulations. 

SENATE BILL 3 

Removes the lieutenant governor as a member of the Kentucky Council on Agriculture 

Transfers authority over the Kentucky Agricultural Finance Corporation and the Agricultural Development Board from the governor to the commissioner of agriculture. 

SENATE BILL 5 

Provides liability protections for businesses operating during emergencies, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The bill seeks to protect businesses from being sued if someone catches the virus at the business. 

It would not protect a business from “wanton, willful, malicious, grossly negligent, or intentional failure to adhere to executive actions while the declared emergency continues.” 

SENATE BILL 9 

“Born Alive Infant Protection Act” requires physicians to “give medically appropriate and reasonable life-saving and life-sustaining medical care and treatment to all born-alive infants” and requires any abortion provider to take any appropriate steps to protect the life of a “born-alive infant” and makes it a felony if the provider does not comply. 


 Crossroads Regional Chamber: From the Prez

To Crossroads Regional Chamber Members and Community,

Happy New Year! 

As we enter into 2021 we hope to move forward with our favorite events as well as some new ones. 

We have an exciting January program featuring Congressman Frank Mrvan. Please register to receive the zoom information. 

We will be hosting our Annual Business Expo on February 16, 2021. Information regarding sponsorships and registration is in the newsletter. 

On March 13 we are planning a new event this year at the New Dean and Barbara White Community Center in Merrillville. We will be Celebrating the Chamber turning 10 years and honoring our local business community. More information to follow. 

We have several sponsorship opportunities available and our Partnership Program is available now for anyone interested. 

Please contact me at deann@crossroadschamber.org if I can help in any way. 

Be Safe, 

Deann Patena 

President/CEO




Mequon-Thiensville Chamber of Commerce Community Profile and Membership Directory 

The Mequon-Thiensville Chamber Community Profile and Membership Directory  is available at the Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to Tina Schwantes, Gina Sotelo and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together! 


MeQuon Thiensville Community Profile and Membership Directory

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


Clarkston Area Chamber and the Oakland Chamber Network: PPP, EIDL, & SBA Resources for Small Biz

Join us on Thursday, January 21 at 1:00pm for PPP, EIDL & SBA Resources for Small Biz brought to you by the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce through Oakland Chamber Network. The SBA Michigan District Office along with the SBA Region V Administrator will discuss PPP updates and loan forgiveness, Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), and new resources included in the recently passed $900 billion stimulus package.

 There is no cost to attend, but registration is required to receive the link to join us via Zoom.

 REGISTER HERE


GRAC: Results of the 2021 West Michigan Business Advocacy Survey are in 

With responses from more than 700 members, the Chamber survey shows COVID-19 business relief and recovery, a talented workforce, and healthcare affordability as the top three issues for West Michigan businesses in 2021. 

The Annual Survey, coupled with our legislative priorities, is the foundation for our advocacy for member-driven policy and allows us to better inform government of our business’s needs.

Watch the video below to learn more about what our team is doing to address these concerns for you. 


 


“With vaccines and an end to the pandemic on the horizon, this is valuable input from our business community as we work to build a strong recovery,” said Rick Baker, President and & CEO of the Chamber. “The message is clear: create a business climate that supports small businesses and those impacted by public health restrictions as well as tackle barriers to business growth, like talent, to make West Michigan a prosperous region for all.” 

In this year’s survey, over 70% of respondents said that our West Michigan business climate was either favorable or very favorable – a significant backtrack from last year’s 94% favorability and many preceding years in the upper 90’s. 78% of this year’s respondents represented small or mid-sized businesses.

“Public health measures and business restrictions put in place to beat the pandemic have certainly impacted this metric,” continued Baker. “We are focused on working local, regional and state leaders to get this perception back on track. We must strive to be the best place to start and run a business in 2021.” 

See the survey results here and to learn more about our team’s work within the top three issues – COVID-19 relief and recovery, talent, and healthcare – visit the Chamber website. 


Roanoke Regional Partnership names new executive director - John Hull succeeds Beth Doughty

The Roanoke Regional Partnership announced Tuesday that John Hull has been named as its executive director. He succeeds Beth Doughty, who retired in December 2020 after 22 years with the organization.

Hull has worked with the partnership since 2010, most recently serving as its director of marketing intelligence. He was previously the acting director of business investment and executive director of the Western Virginia Regional Industrial Facility Authority and regional economic development manager with the Roanoke Valley Alleghany Regional Commission.

“John is one of those rare individuals that is a data-driven decision maker, yet understands the importance of relationships,” Roanoke Regional Partnership President Brett Marston said in a statement. “I look forward to working with him on the partnership’s current activities, as well as on future initiatives.”

Doughty joined the Roanoke Regional Partnership in 1990 as marketing director, served as executive director from 1992 to 1999 and then served as president of the Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce from 1999 to 2008. She then rejoined the partnership as executive director and also served as president of the Virginia Economic Developers Association.

Founded in 1983, the Roanoke Regional Partnership is a public-private economic development marketing and strategy organization for Alleghany, Botetourt, Franklin and Roanoke counties, the cities of Covington, Roanoke and Salem, and the town of Vinton, as well as more than 200 businesses. Since its inception, it has worked with partners to create more than 19,000 jobs and has generated an estimated $19 billion in economic development investments. Read more: Virginia Business


Portage County Business Council Welcomes New Board Members and Officers 

The Portage County Business Council (PCBC) Board of Directors recently welcomed new officers and board members.  PCBC’s priorities for its members and the community are retention and attraction of businesses and employees.  PCBC serves as the chamber of commerce, economic and talent development organization and is home to Ignite Young Professionals, Ambassadors and the Heartland Leadership Initiative.

 2021 Officers include: President Ray Ackerlund, Skyward; Vice President, Kate Budd, Ki-Mobility; Treasurer/Secretary Craig Aittama, Delta Dental of Wisconsin; Brian Formella, Anderson O’Brien; Andrew Halverson, Ellis Construction; Todd Schroeder, Sentry; and Kelly Zagrzebski, WEC Energy Group (WPS).

 Eric Powers, AIG; Todd Reilly, Coldwell Banker Real Estate Group; Todd Schroeder, Sentry Insurance; Lisa Sobczak, ABR Employment Services; and Candace Taylor, Associated Bank were all re-elected to a second term.

 Amy Boston, The Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center, has been elected to her first-term on the Board of Directors.  Prior to Covid-19, the Holiday Inn had upwards of 140 employees with over 60 full time.  Amy is the General Manager of the hotel, overseeing all property operations to include lodging, convention facilities and the Amber Grill restaurant. 

 Amy was born and raised in Northeast Iowa and graduated college from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, FL in 2001.  She returned to the Midwest following college and worked for different franchised hotel companies, before locating to the Stevens Point area in 2007.  Since then, she has been an active hotel representative within the community.  She is currently serving on the Board of Directors of the Stevens Point Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (11 of the last 13 years) and also serves on the Wisconsin Hotel and Lodging Association (WH&LA) State Board of Directors.  Amy is a running enthusiast, participating in anywhere from 4-8 half marathons per year, and enjoys the convenient access to the Green Circle trail.  Amy and her husband Nathan have one daughter, Brooklyn who attends Roosevelt Elementary.

 Jake Feltz, Feltz’s Dairy Store, has been elected to his first-term on the Board of Directors. Feltz’s Dairy Store is a local retail store that opened in 2017 and specializes in the sale of Wisconsin products, mainly cheese, and family-friendly events including a corn maze, pumpkin patch, farm tours, and a small-animal petting zoo among others. They employ 11 full and part-time employees.

 Jake was born and raised in Stevens Point, graduated from Pacelli High School in 2014, and graduated college in 2018 with a degree in Agricultural Business between UW-Madison and UW-River Falls. Jake worked on their family dairy farm growing up and now works exclusively in the dairy store while helping out on the farm during harvest season. He is the fifth generation of the family on the farm. Jake does not have a specific title, but enjoys being involved in nearly all parts of the business. Jake enjoys watching and playing sports, listening to audiobooks, and researching and trading stocks. He was recently married to his wife, Amanda, in the summer of 2020.

 Megan Kuckkahn, Point Title, LLC, has been elected to her first-term on the Board of Directors. She is currently serving as Chairperson for the Ambassadors Club of the Portage County Business Council.  The Ambassadors are the good-will team for the community, supporting events, ribbon-cuttings, groundbreakings, businesses and non-profits.

 Megan was born and raised in the Madison/Stoughton area and moved to Stevens Point her freshman year of high school, graduating from Pacelli High School in 2008. After then moving to Madison and back to Stevens Point, she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from UW-Stevens Point. Megan is now a Closing/Title Agent at Point Title, LLC. She loves the Wisconsin Badgers and particularly enjoys watching them play basketball and football, as well as cheering on the Green Bay Packers.  Megan and her 8-year-old son, Uriah, live in Stevens Point and truly love living in the Portage County area.

 Kevin Schleicher, Wysocki Family of Companies, has been elected to his first-term on the Board of Directors. Kevin’s father in law, Russell Wysocki, also served on the PCBC Board of Directors. As a 4th generation member of the family business, Kevin is rotating around all business units over a several year span and will be primarily focused on all aspects of farming in 2021. Wysocki Family of Companies is a vertically based organization, growing, packing and selling potatoes and onions to the top retailers and manufacturers in all areas of the United States. The company employs about 420 employees, mostly based in Portage County, but has several remote offices in order to help other potato farmers sell their crop at maximum value.

 Kevin was born and raised in Cedarburg, Wisconsin. He moved to La Crosse where he completed degrees in International Business, Management and an MBA with a focus on sustainability from UW- La Crosse and Viterbo University. Post-graduation, Kevin worked for an organic dairy cooperative, Organic Valley, and managed the international business department selling organic dairy products to over 30 countries on 6 different continents- Antarctica was a tough sell. Kevin met his wife, Heidi Wysocki, in La Crosse while playing laser tag. Fast forward seven years, Heidi and Kevin are settled in Custer with two young children, two dogs and an exciting opportunity at Wysocki Family of Companies. Outside of growing at work, Kevin enjoys downhill skiing, competing in triathlons (the shorter ones), and sampling local food and beer from the many fine breweries and eateries in the area. He is excited to learn more about Portage County and serve his community through the PCBC board.

Contact: Todd Kuckkahn, Executive Director, toddk@portagecountybiz.com

715-344-1940, www.portagecountybiz.com              


 Gift Ideas Under $50 That Support Oxford Businesses

With just one week left until Christmas, last-minute shoppers can find that perfect gift for their loved one right here in Oxford without spending an arm and a leg.

The Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce’s Shop Oxford Local Gift Ideas online e-book is filled with ideas for gifts under $50 that help support local businesses.

From cheesecakes from City Hall Cheesecakes to art supplies from the Clay Canvas to gift certificate ideas, the online e-book has something for just about anyone on your shopping list, and all for less than $50.

Shopping local keeps tax dollars here in Oxford. Sales taxes are the largest revenue source for the city’s budget.

“This year has been tough on our local economy, to say the least,” said Chamber Senior Vice President Pam Swain. “Our local shops, restaurants and local service providers need your support now more than ever.”

Click here to view the Shop Oxford Local Gift Ideas online e-book. Read more: HottyToddy.com

MGC Chamber: Mardi Gras t-shirt sales will continue in Pass Christian

The Pass Christian Mardi Gras Parade is canceled, along with many others on the Coast, but the carnival celebration doesn’t have to end. The Pass Christian Chamber of Commerce has partnered up with local tattoo artist Ben Rusher to design a Mardi Gras t-shirt. The vibrant colors represent Pass Christian with accents of wildlife and nature in the area. The white long-sleeve t-shirts are available for pre-order only at mscoastchamber.com. Mississippi Gulf Coast Chamber of Commerce CEO Adele Lyons said, "Certainly some parades and balls are being canceled but that doesn't mean Mardi Gras Day just goes away. It'll still be celebrated in a lot of different forms. I'm sure we'll start seeing king cakes come out. So, it was really important for the Pass Christian Chamber to move forward with Mardi Gras by having a t-shirt. This helps support the small business grants that are given out in that community as well as scholarships to high school students. So, it's a way of still celebrating Mardi Gras whether you're at a parade or not.” The t-shirts are on sale right now for $20 and larger sizes are $24. You can preorder until January 25th and they will be ready for pick up February 4th. Source: Index-Journal

Southeast Kentucky Chamber virtual meeting: Kentucky Chamber shares legislative hopes for 2021 session, provides insight on covid-19 relief 



Pandemic relief and recovery were the main focuses of Kentucky Chamber President Ashli Watts during a virtual meeting hosted by the Southeast Kentucky Chamber on Thursday to discuss the state chamber’s priorities for the 2021 legislative session which kicks off in January. 

Watts opened up Thursday’s meeting touching on covid-19 vaccines in Kentucky. She said she had spoken with Ky. Gov. Andy Beshear prior to the meeting and had been informed that all front-line health workers and first responders are scheduled to receive the vaccine by January, when EMT and EMS workers are expected to be vaccinated. 

“66 percent of covid deaths in Kentucky have been in our long-term care facilities,” said Watts, noting that those facilities should be receiving the vaccine as early as December 15. She said the Kentucky Chamber is suggesting that those vaccines take place on site at the workplace. 

From there, Watts transitioned to discuss the top priorities of the state chamber for the 2021 legislative session which, according to Watts, include: Infrastructure, covid-19 liability protections, modernization of the state’s unemployment insurance program, tax reform, substance use disorder and recovery, reform of the state’s criminal justice system, investing in education, focusing on childcare, and supporting Kentucky’s signature industries. 

In terms of infrastructure, Watts said the Chamber is urging for a gas tax to help raise money to fix existing infrastructure as well as to provide for new infrastructure needs across the state. 

“The gas tax is really a consumption-based tax where you can see the improvements,” said Watts. “We do not have enough money in our road fund to pay for our existing infrastructure, or to maintain [it].” 

For more information contact: Josh Little | Director of Operations, Southeast Kentucky Chamber of Commerce - o. 606.432.5504


Danville Boyle County Chamber of Commerce  Community Map

The Danville Boyle County Chamber of Commerce Community Map is available at the Chamber today! Thanks to Jeff Jewel, Treina Miller and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Town Square Publications (https://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.

Danville Boyle County Chamber Community Map


Kentucky Chamber Paycheck Protection Program Loans Guidance


As part of the latest Congressional pandemic relief bill, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) was renewed, and applications will re-open the week of January 11th. 


On Wednesday, January 13 at 10:00 AM, join panelists, Brian Cromer of Stites & Harbison and Diane Kilner of MCM CPAs and Advisors, for a discussion of what has changed for this new round of funding and how to make use of the program. 

Before Wednesday, we also encourage you to check out the U.S. Chamber’s Guide to Small Business COVID-19 Emergency Loans. 

CLICK TO REGISTER 

Key PPP updates include: 
PPP borrowers can set their PPP loan’s covered period to be any length between 8 and 24 weeks to best meet their business needs; 
PPP loans will cover additional expenses, including operations expenditures, property damage costs, supplier costs, and worker protection expenditures; 
The Program’s eligibility is expanded to include 501(c)(6)s, housing cooperatives, direct marketing organizations, among other types of organizations; 
The PPP provides greater flexibility for seasonal employees; 
Certain existing PPP borrowers can request to modify their First Draw PPP Loan amount; and 
Certain existing PPP borrowers are now eligible to apply for a Second Draw PPP Loan. 
A borrower is generally eligible for a Second Draw PPP Loan if the borrower: 
Previously received a First Draw PPP Loan and will or has used the full amount only for authorized uses; 
Has no more than 300 employees; and 
Can demonstrate at least a 25% reduction in gross receipts between comparable quarters in 2019 and 2020. 

The new guidance released includes: 
PPP Guidance from SBA Administrator Carranza on Accessing Capital for Minority, Underserved, Veteran, and Women-owned Business Concerns; 
Interim Final Rule on Paycheck Protection Program as Amended by Economic Aid Act; and 
Interim Final Rule on Second Draw PPP Loans. 

Find the list of PPP lenders, download the application form, and learn more by visiting the U.S. Small Business Administration website: sba.gov/ppp. 



Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Apps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory and Community Profiles: The 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!