Chamber of Commerce Daily News

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Showing posts with label Cybersecurity. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 28, 2020

Michael Caruso on Kate Spade: Are you hiding your brand?; Awesome Women Becomes Part of the Arlington Chamber of Commerce; Hampton Roads Alliance: Introducing the 757 Recovery & Resiliency Action Framework; How Secure Is Your Teleworkforce?; Kent County Small Business Recovery Program - Apply Now! 7 Ways Hearing People Can Better Include Deaf Communities in Our Communication (via the Macomb County Chamber); Waterloo Chamber: Debt Relief for New SBA-backed Loans

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

Michael Caruso on Kate Spade: Are you hiding your brand?

In 1995, fashion designer Kate Spade had enjoyed only moderate success marketing her handbags.

Although big department stores were placing orders for her brightly colored, sharp-cornered bags, the designer wasn't even breaking even.

Kate's personal savings account was running low and she even considered shutting down the brand, until she got the idea that quadrupled sales and staged the sale of her company for $158 million.

The big idea? She moved the Kate Spade logo from the inside of the bag to the outside.

Do you have a "Kate Spade problem?"

This is a great metaphor for so many speakers and presenters who all but keep their brand a secret, by:

Working only for someone else
Always presenting inferior, third-party content
Representing a corporate or franchise brand
Being tethered to silly guidelines
Working ridiculous hours
Being under-appreciated and way under-paid

It doesn't have to be this way

If this is your situation, we should at least jump on a call to talk about what's possible.
Because clarity is a wonderful thing.
Choose a good day/time for your free consult at MichaelAngeloCaruso.com/talk.
Don't hide what you have to offer. It never works out.

Indiana Chamber Virtual Event Connects Hoosier Companies To Entire Congressional Delegation; Free For Member Companies

(INDIANAPOLIS) — With many Hoosier businesses currently looking to the federal government for guidance, the Indiana Chamber of Commerce is bringing the state’s congressional delegation to them in an upcoming event.

The 2020 D.C. Fly-in will be held virtually on August 12-13 from 10 a.m. to noon EDT both days. All of Indiana’s 11 delegation members – led by Sens. Todd Young and Mike Braun – have confirmed their participation for at least one of the two moderated sessions. Attendees can submit their questions for consideration in real-time.

“We’ve put together a program that prioritizes the unprecedented situation we are still in, while also acknowledging that other key matters still need to be addressed,” says Greg Ellis, the Indiana Chamber’s vice president of energy, environment, and federal affairs.

“With the convenience and safety of the webinar format, we hope to engage a record number of Hoosier business leaders in the Fly-in discussion.”

The day one conversation will center on the here and now and into next year. Specifically, what’s left to do to aid in emerging from the pandemic and the longer-term economic recovery. Also on tap will be security concerns and international relations.

Traditional domestic issues that remain of paramount importance and await action highlight the agenda on day two. These include infrastructure, health care, broadband and fiscal matters.

The two retiring representatives, Pete Visclosky (IN-1) and Susan Brooks (IN-5), will be honored as part of the program.

The 2020 D.C. Fly-in is free of charge for Indiana Chamber members and $29.95 for non-members. Register to attend at www.indianachamber.com/flyin. Read more: WBIW

Awesome Women Becomes Part of the Arlington Chamber of Commerce

The Arlington Chamber is happy to welcome the Awesome Women (AWE) Arlington Chapter to our membership community! The Chamber will begin having AWE events and programs in the fall.

AWE, the professional networking group founded in Arlington in 2014. The organization is open to women who own and operate a business.

If you’d like to support this program as a sponsor, please contact Andrea Aiello, Membership Engagement Manager, for opportunities at engagement@arlingtonchamber.org.

SUPPORT THIS PROGRAM

The Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce has released the first episodes in its new Elevated Conversations Podcast, hosted by Dave Eckmann

The Greater Wausau Chamber of Commerce has released the first episodes in its new Elevated Conversations Podcast, hosted by Dave Eckmann, President and CEO of the Chamber.

Greenwood-Leflore County Chamber: Largest Bike Ride in Mississippi!

Money Road Cycling Club and the Greenwood-Leflore County Chamber of Commerce will host the 13th annual BBB cycling event on Saturday, August 1, 2020. The rides begin at 7:00 AM on Howard Street in Greenwood. Mississippi's LARGEST RIDE totaled over 1,000 riders in 2019 and was selected as a “Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Festival & Event Winner” for the month of August! Join us to ride the “flat and fast alluvial plains of the Delta” and find one of the most hospitable, well organized bike events in the South.

For more information and to register, visit our WEBSITE. Check out the FACEBOOK PAGE often for regular updates, and to sponsor or volunteer, contact the Chamber at 662.453.4152.

For a complete list of places to stay in Greenwood visit: https://visitgreenwood.com/stay/.

Hampton Roads Alliance: Introducing the 757 Recovery & Resiliency Action Framework

Dear Friends of the Alliance,

It is with great pride that we introduce a new regional initiative known as the 757 Recovery and Resiliency Action Framework. This effort will result in a strategic plan that will ensure Hampton Roads emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic stronger than ever.

This Framework is being developed and executed under the leadership of the Hampton Roads Alliance and a coalition of leading business organizations. Ten committees shape the plan, each developing action plans specific to their sectors or areas of focus. These committees are chaired by some of the region’s most talented leaders and supported by over 100 volunteer committee members, including several young professionals and supported by ODU’s Strome College of Business graduate students.

Over the next ten weeks, we will keep you informed and up to date on our progress, and share a series of video episodes that feature local thought leaders sharing their perspective on how we can best leverage the trends and changes brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. The first of these videos, featuring Felicia Blow of Hampton University is now available across all of our social media profiles. We encourage you to follow our profiles at the links provided at the close of this email to see it and future episodes.

There will also be opportunities for those in the business community to participate in this planning process by taking surveys and providing feedback on the plans produced by these committees.

This is our time to show the world that Hampton Roads is a region with a shared vision to create a more livable, equitable, and prosperous community for all businesses and residents. Stay tuned for future updates and check out all of our work at www.757recovery.com

Watch Here

Sincerely,

Douglas L. Smith
President & CEO
Hampton Roads Alliance

Kentucky Chamber Member-Exclusive Call with U.S. Congressman James Comer

Join us for a member exclusive call with U.S. Congressman James Comer, ranking Member of the House Oversight Committee on Thursday, July 30, 2020, at 2:00 PM EST. Congressman Comer will discuss his recent inquiry into government regulations and their impacts on economic recovery.

Register

Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber collaboration: The Downriver Experience Broadcast

– Syndicated radio host Michael Patrick Shiels will broadcast live from Elizabeth Park Pavilion – Chateau on the River on Thursday, July 30^th from 6-9:00 AM. Listeners across Michigan will hear Shiels speaking with a number of guests about the many and varied experiences the Downriver region offers visitors, families and entrepreneurs. The show will be co-hosted by Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber president/CEO Ron Hinrichs.

Michigan’s Big Show is working in conjunction with Destination Downriver, a coalition of like-minded organizations and individuals who are pulling together opportunities and resources to market and brand the Downriver communities, telling the world what is special about the area. The show will feature guests like Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, Travel Michigan VP Dave Lorenz, area Downtown Development Authority leadership, the Downriver Community Conference, the Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber, Stephanie Prechter (philanthropist and daughter of renowned automotive entrepreneur Heinz Prechter), Wayne County Community College District, the Friends of the Detroit River and Downriver Linked Greenways, along with other business and community leaders all relating their perspectives on this unique region of our state.

Listeners will learn about Destination Downriver’s branding and economic development role in helping tell the stories about 18 participating Downriver communities and the many unique businesses and attractions they offer visitors and job providers. According to Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber CEO Ron Hinrichs, “Thursday’s show will touch on the great dining, unique shopping destinations and one-of-a-kind outdoor experiences within our region like North America’s only International Wildlife Refuge and the over 200 miles of trail and waterways that link our communities for a complete outdoor experience.”

The public can hear the show online, which airs from 6-9 AM this Thursday, July 30^th, by visiting MiBigShow.com or the free app: Michigan’s Big Show both for live streaming and the podcasts afterward.

For more information on Destination Downriver and details on how you can participate in this collaborative effort visit www.destinationdownriver.com.

Be sure to follow the Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber on Facebook at facebook.com/SWCRC and the Chamber website at www.SWCRC.com for all the latest news and events.

The Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber provides businesses and organizations across the Downriver region with the opportunities and resources to engage and network with other businesses, enhancing financial growth, professional development, and the ability to contribute to a thriving community environment.

Eau Claire Chamber: The 2020 Western & Central Wisconsin Wage Survey

The 2020 Western & Central Wisconsin Wage Survey is now available for purchase. Due to employers devoting most of their resources COVID-19 pandemic response during our submission period, participation in the recently completed survey declined 25% this year – to 119 vs. 162 last year. This was especially, and understandably, acute in the healthcare sector. We are optimistic that 2021 will see a return to our previous robust response rate.

As the survey results are effective April 1, 2020, it is difficult to say if this data will be reliable for compensation planning in late 2020 or into 2021. It appears that average pay increase percentages have remained consistent at around 3% in the area. As with any emergency situation though, the impact across employers is uneven with some being very negatively impacted and others scrambling to hire more employees in high-demand jobs. It will be an interesting year for compensation. Now more than ever, employers will need depend on applying good business judgment to determine their response to the pandemic’s impact on wages and salaries. The survey results were compiled from submissions by 119 organizations in various industries, in an area encompassing the chambers of commerce in Chippewa Falls, Eau Claire, La Crosse, Marshfield, Menomonie, Portage County, Rice Lake, Wausau, and Wisconsin Rapids. Also involved were local chapters of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) in the Chippewa Valley, La Crosse, Wausau and Winona, MN. The survey is administered by the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce.

The full survey results are available to employers for purchase at the Eau Claire Chamber. Participating members of the Chambers of Commerce and SHRM chapters receive a copy at a reduced price. The order form is available online at: http://www.eauclairechamber.org/western--central-wisconsin-wage-survey.html or contact Danielle Kummer at kummer@eauclairechamber.org or 715-858-0618.

How Secure Is Your Teleworkforce?

U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Oak Brook Chamber of Commerce Cyber Series: Chicago, a virtual program for entrepreneurs, business owners, and forward thinkers. The webinar will take place on Tuesday, July 28 from 10:00 a.m. to 12 p.m. CDT via the Microsoft Teams Live Events platform. This event is part of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Virtual Cyber Series presented by FICO. The Virtual Cyber Series will cover in-depth how businesses secure their teleworkforce and continue to operate securely in remote environments.

The growth of technology-driven businesses will springboard our economy into the digital economy. We will help navigate the road ahead and explore what businesses need, including securing your remote small business, digitizing essential business functions and migrating services to the cloud, analyzing the cyber insurance market, and securing and deploying new telework infrastructure.

Join us for a new audience-driven virtual discussion that combines high-level advice with practical strategies from local experts for business leaders like you. Discussion topics include countering ransomware and lessons learned from Russia’s NotPetya cyberattack on global infrastructure, an analysis of the cyber insurance market, securing and deploying new telework infrastructure, and digitizing essential business functions and migrating services to the cloud.

Look forward to your participation on July 28th. Please reach out to me or Hannah Kim (hhkim@uschamber.com) on the U.S. Chamber’s team with any questions.

Register

Teaming 101 –

How To Win Government Contracts

for Small Businesses

Thursday, July 30

8:30 - 10:00 a.m.

This webinar will provide tactics and strategies to help your small business secure lucrative government contracts. These strategies have directly helped companies win more than $2.6 billion in government contracts collectively. Historically, 90 percent of small businesses win their first three or four government contracts by “teaming” with larger firms.

Topics covered:

· Real-world tactics and strategies designed to quickly accelerate “teaming”

· Review the most common “teaming” subcontractor mistakes

· Cover the 5 functional areas larger companies use to evaluate and select small businesses.

· Discuss how to differentiate and strengthen your companies’ position

Takeaways:

· Business templates

· Example marketing collateral

· Copy of slides

Cost to Attend:

The Chamber understands that now is a challenging time. That’s why we’re offering a COVID-19 discount for our programming.

Use Promo Code: COVID and receive $12 off this webinar.

· Members: $17 with promo code; regularly - $29

· Non Members: $37 with promo code; regularly - $49

Fees are non-refundable but may be transferred to another participant.

Register Now

8th Annual NoVA B2G Goes Virtual

On August 27^th, don’t miss your chance to:

· Hear Keynotes from Amazon Web Services and the Small Business Administration

· Connect with agencies and prime contractors through Matchmaking Appointments

· Networking with others in the industry

· And most importantly, the exhibit hall chock full of solutions providers

All online!

To learn more about Attending or Sponsoring, email Alicia Field or visit the website.

Details & Registration

Kent County Small Business Recovery Program - Apply Now!

The Grand Rapids Chamber, in partnership with Kent County, is continuing to accept applications for the Kent County Small Business Recovery Program. These grants deliver short-term financial support to small, for-profit businesses in Kent County with the purpose of supporting and cultivating a strong economic recovery.

The Kent County Small Business Recovery Program will help businesses gain access to additional support to weather the COVID-19 crisis. The program will also focus on businesses that may be dealing with additional barriers including but not limited to language, general business knowledge, and those from underserved communities. Consistent with the limitations of the CARES Act, these businesses also must have been directly impacted and experienced losses due to business interruption due to COVID-19.

Additionally, the program eligibility requires applicants to be a private, for-profit business located and registered in Kent County with 0-25 full time equivalent employees, and have a business start date prior to February 15, 2020.

Questions? Please contact smallbusinessrecovery@grandrapids.org.

7 Ways Hearing People Can Better Include Deaf Communities in Our Communication (via the Macomb County Chamber)

By: Global Interpreting Services

Between lagging video conferences, dead batteries mid-call, and 6-foot conversations through masks, we’ve all felt the struggle to communicate well over the past several months. But as the world slowly allows for us to talk, shop, socialize and be understood the way we are used to, there are still many in our community who won’t automatically be granted that same widespread access to effective communication. For Deaf and hard of hearing individuals, the hearing-centered world we live in presents a few more challenges in regular, day-to-day communication. Global Interpreting Services, a locally based interpreting, and translation service, shares these easy ways hearing individuals can make a huge impact on the accessibility of effective communication for the Deaf Community in our area.

Keep Reading at Macomb County Chamber

Virginia Peninsula Chamber: 2020 Economic Forecast Mid-Year Breakfast

REGISTER TODAY!

IN PARTNERSHIP with Old Dominion University

2020 Economic Forecast Mid-Year Breakfast

Presented by 1st Advantage Federal Credit Union

Wednesday, August 12, 2020

Newport News Marriott at City Center

7:30 AM Registration

8:00 AM Plated Breakfast

8:30 AM Presentations

PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED! RSVP BY AUGUST 7, 2020
Tickets $35 (Breakfast Included) || Seating is Limited
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

GUEST SPEAKERS:

Dr. Robert McNab Presentation n National Economic Forecast
Dr. Vinod Agarwal - Presentation on Hampton Roads Economic Forecast

PRESENTING SPONSOR: 1st Advantage Federal Credit Union

For more information contact:
Suzy Johnson at sjohnson@vpcc.org or (757) 325-8160
Elisa Hernandez at elisa@vpcc.org or (757) 325-8162

Waterloo Chamber: Debt Relief for New SBA-backed Loans

The SBA is paying six months of principal, interest, and any associated fees for current and new SBA-backed loans disbursed before September 27 in the agency’s most popular loan programs (7(a), 504, and Microloan).

If you’re seeking a loan to cover fixed assets such as furniture, real estate, machinery, equipment, construction, and/or remodeling, you may need to have information to your lender by August 7 for the loan to be processed in time.

Learn more about starting or growing your small business with an SBA-guaranteed loan and start the process now to take advantage of six months of debt relief by visiting here: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/sba-debt-relief?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best Chamber 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 Assistance Requested. Thank you!

Tuesday, June 4, 2019

Indiana halts funds for Regional Cities grants in new budget; #FamousChamber Of Commerce Quotations: (Be happy!); Cary-Grove High School Students Awarded Chamber Scholarships; Birmingham Bloomfield 2018-2019 Membership Directory and Community Resource Guide; Northern Kentucky Chamber June Eggs ‘N Issues at Receptions to focus on cybersecurity; Midland Business Alliance Celebrates Economic Development Week; Logansport Cass County Community Resource Guide and Map; Apply Today: WMC Business Friend of the Environment Awards; Biloxi beats D’Iberville in 2019 Great Biloxi Schooner Mayor’s Cup; Renovated Tazewell railway station opens, houses new Chamber of Commerce; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.

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

Indiana halts funds for Regional Cities grants in new budget

A state grant program created by former Indiana Gov. Mike Pence that funded three regional economic development efforts has been dropped despite supporters lauding its success.

Pence and the General Assembly launched the Regional Cities Initiative in 2015 and awarded three $42 million grants to projects in north central, northeastern and southwestern Indiana.

But neither Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb nor legislative leaders sought to include money for additional grants in the new state budget adopted last month, the Indianapolis Business Journal reported.

A study conducted by Ball State University indicated the initiative could expand Indiana's workforce by nearly 8,000 people over eight years.

"It's been huge," said Jeff Rea, president and CEO of the South Bend Regional Chamber of Commerce. "It's hard to maybe explain the significance of it."

Over $1.2 billion has been invested in the Regional Cities projects since the program launched, which includes $835.5 million being contributed from the private sector, the research showed.

The program has been transformative, said the leaders from the first three regions. Before the 2019 legislative session started in January, the officials urged lawmakers to consider allotting $150 million for a second round of subsidies.

"When we lobby for Regional Cities 2.0, we're lobbying realizing we're probably not going to get that because (our region) benefited before," Rea said. "We'd love to see others take advantage of it."

Gov. Eric Holcomb's administration said the program functioned well, but neither the Governor's Office nor budget-writing legislators appear to have an interest in funding more proposals.

"It was one-time dollars," House Ways and Means Committee Co-Chairman Todd Huston said. "It was never intended, I don't think, to be a continual state appropriation."

Huston added if the Regional Cities program is going to continue, it will need to be driven more by local dollars than state grants.

"We have to think about something that's sustainable, that is locally driven," he said.

Information from: Indianapolis Business Journal, http://www.ibj.com

#FamousChamber Of Commerce Quotations: (Be happy!)

"To succeed in life, you need three things: a wishbone, a backbone and a funny bone." Reba McEntire

Cary-Grove High School Students Awarded Chamber Scholarships

The Cary-Grove Area Chamber of Commerce recently awarded two $2,000 business scholarships to local students at the Cary-Grove High School Honors Night on Wednesday, May 15. The awards are intended to encourage area students to pursue college interests that might impact local business. Over the years, the Chamber has given away more than $40,000 in scholarship awards to local high school students who are pursuing business related studies. The chamber is proud to make this investment in our local youth who may someday become future business professionals and owners right in our community. We specifically look for students that may want to bring their skills back to the Cary-Grove area.

This year's high school recipients each received a $2,000 scholarship for college. The scholarships were awarded to Gabriele Eidukebiciute and Lilly Hicks. Gabriele will be attending Indiana University in the fall and majoring in Business. With a degree in Business Administration and accounting, Gabriele aspires to become an advocate for small businesses. Lilly will be attending the University of Illinois and majoring in Business. She would love to work for a non-profit or local company and assist with social media, marketing and promotion. Both students were extremely involved during their four years at Cary-Grove High both at the school and within their communities.

Thank you to the Cary-Grove Chamber Scholarship Committee; Committee Chairperson - Phil Horn of State Farm - Phil Horn Agency, Susan Jensen of Periwinkle Florist, Dr. Pete Lovato of Northern Illinois Foot & Ankle Specialist, Ltd., Shannon Morreale of State Farm - Shannon Morreale, Jean Pierce of the Cary Area Public Library, Mike Spagnola of Edge Fitness, and Sean Wheeler of Sean Wheeler Picket Fence Realty.

Birmingham Bloomfield 2018-2019 Membership Directory and Community Resource Guide

The Birmingham-Bloomfield 2018-2019 Membership Directory and Community Resource Guide is available at the Birmingham-Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to Joe Bauman and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Birmingham-Bloomfield 2018-2019 Member 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.

Northern Kentucky Chamber June Eggs ‘N Issues at Receptions to focus on cybersecurity

The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce (NKY Chamber) will host Eggs ‘N Issues: Cybersecurity, Tuesday, June 11.

Panelists will review the current cyber threat landscape. The discussion will lay out the current threats small and midsize businesses face and best practices to mitigate those threats.

Panelists include:

* Dennis Kennedy, Dressman Benzinger LaVelle psc (DBL Law) – Kennedy is a partner at DBL Law who specializes in health care, medical malpractice, and technology. He advises health care clients throughout Kentucky regarding various issues including regulatory compliance, fraud and abuse, reimbursement appeals, provider enrollment issues, and civil monetary penalties. In addition, Kennedy is a frequent speaker on reimbursement issues, fraud and abuse, regulatory compliance, and HIPPA privacy and security laws. He is a former health care accountant, hospital risk manager, and corporate compliance officer.

* Brian Ruschman, C-Forward, Inc. – Ruschman, President of C-Forward, has more than 16 years of experience with computer networking and has received many Microsoft certifications. An active member of the NKY Chamber, he serves as the Chair of the Chamber Ambassador committee and is a graduate of the 35th Leadership Northern Kentucky Class.

* Tom Scarborough, Fifth Third Bank – Scarborough is the Director of Cyber Defense and Operations at Fifth Third Bank and has more than 16 years of Information Security Management experience. In his role, he has responsibility for the day-to-day operations of information security including Cyber Threat Intelligence, Attack Detection, Analysis, and Response (ADAR), Attack Surface Management, Vulnerability Management, Network and Endpoint Security, and the Insider Threat Program.

Eggs ‘N Issues: Cybersecurity will take place at Receptions Banquet and Conference Center (1379 Donaldson Rd., Erlanger). The event will begin with check-in, breakfast, and networking from 7:30-7:55 a.m., with the discussion and audience Q&A running from 7:55-9:00 a.m.“Businesses rely on technology to conduct work efficiently and securely, which is why cybersecurity is important,” said Brent Cooper, President and CEO of the NKY Chamber. “This event will be a great opportunity to learn how local companies working to combat cybercrimes and cyber threats and walk away with actionable items to apply to their own organizations.”

Registration for Eggs ‘N Issues is $25 for NKY Chamber members, $50 for future NKY Chamber members, and $20 for NKYP Passport holders. Pre-registration is required online at www.NKYChamber.com/events.

The Eggs ‘N Issues Title Sponsor is DBL Law. The Non-Profit Spotlight is Carmel Manor.

The Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce is the leading business organization in Northern Kentucky.

It is a Five-Star Accredited Chamber with nearly 1,500 member companies representing approximately 175,000 employees. Read more: Northern Kentucky Tribune

Midland Business Alliance Celebrates Economic Development Week

The MBA is celebrating National Economic Development Week this week to celebrate the contributions of positive economic development and explain the role of the profession in our local community. Here are some quick facts about economic development and its impact in Midland County:

· The MBA is the only agency in the County of Midland devoted solely to the economic development of our community. With the support of its stakeholders, the MBA Foundation enhances the economic footprint of Midland County through strong partnerships; business recruitment, retention and expansion; workforce development; and entrepreneurship.

· The MBA’s economic development arm, formerly known as Midland Tomorrow has been focused on working to increase business investment in Midland County for more than 50 years.

· In 2018, nearly $16 million new investment in 154 projects was recorded by our economic development agency, resulting in 127 new jobs and 104 retained jobs. We provided support and assistance with utilizing many services.

· Some of the ways the MBA assists businesses is through comprehensive retention visits, grant assistance, education and training, real estate development and more. If your business needs assistance with everything from workforce attraction and training to expansion, contact the MBA today! Call (989) 839-9522 or email us.

Logansport Cass County Community Resource Guide and Map

The Logansport Cass County Community Guide and map is available at the Chamber today! Thanks to the Bill, Teresa and the chamber members for their help and direction putting this together!

Logansport Cass County Chamber Directory and Map

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.

Apply Today: WMC Business Friend of the Environment Awards

WMC is accepting nominations for the 30th Annual Business Friend of the Environment Awards, honoring companies that have made significant improvements in the areas of sustainability, environmental innovation and environmental stewardship. The goal of this awards program is to demonstrate to state policymakers, businesses and the public that sound environmental practices are good for Wisconsin and its business environment. Nomination deadline is June 21, 2019. Click here for more information

Biloxi beats D’Iberville in 2019 Great Biloxi Schooner Mayor’s Cup

The City of Biloxi took the crown as the winner of the 2019 Great Biloxi Schooner Mayor’s Cup Saturday.

Biloxi reclaimed the title from the D’Iberville team, who came at a close second as the two groups sailed classic schooners across the Mississippi Sound.

The race started around noon from the Schooner pier. Spectators watched from the dock as the boats cut through the water and raced to the finish line. Mayor FoFo Gilich says he’s proud of his team’s win and the chance to ride the historic vessel.

The seafood capital of the world was built around this kind of hull and this kind of shrimping experience. So, it’s good the seafood industry, the maritime museum crew and yacht club got the boats back in the water," said Mayor Gilich.

The trophy presentation was held at the Fais Do-Do on Saturday night. The annual regatta was sponsored by the Biloxi Bay Chamber of Commerce. Read more: WLOX

Renovated Tazewell railway station opens, houses new Chamber of Commerce

For the first time in 60 years, the former Norfolk & Western Railway station in Tazewell was open for public business. The Restoration and Repurposing Committee, in cooperation with the Tazewell County Chamber of Commerce, the Town of Tazewell, the Board of Supervisors, the Tazewell County Historical Society and the Tazewell County Tourism office, among others, welcomed an estimated crowd of more than 300 to the gala grand opening Saturday.

“We had hoped to fill the 120 seats in the station, and we did,” said Tazewell town council member and committee chair Dr. Terry W. Mullins, who added in opening remarks, “our hearts and this historic building are overflowing on this wonderful day.”

Mullins, who organized the team formed in March 2014, has worked tirelessly with local, state and federal officials along with spirited community support and volunteer efforts to make the dream of opening the station a reality. The 30 members of the team were recognized for their “thousands of volunteer hours” as noted by Mullins.

A mural representing the noted work of outstanding artists Don and Ellen Elmes was unveiled. Architect Barry Rakes spoke and N & W Historical Society representative Tishia Boggs presented Mullins an historic railroad book. Cumberland Plateau’s Jim Baldwin lauded the group’s achievement.

Not only is the station open, but it has become the home of the newly reorganized Tazewell County Chamber of Commerce.

“We are so excited to be here,” said C of C interim Director Pam Meade, who has led the Tazewell Chamber for five years. “We will continue to work on behalf of Tazewell County, and will also be a satellite office of the Tourism Committee. We hope to extend our hours to better serve visitors from far and near and we welcome volunteers to help us do that.”

Rusty Hatfield, whose father, Major, was the last N & W station agent in 1978, gave the invocation and benediction.

He said, “This (restoration) is fantastic. We can all be thankful for what it meant to shoppers, local business, passengers, the soldiers who used it over the years and hopeful for the opportunities now open for the future.” Read more: Bluefield Daily Telegraph

Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.

Monday, October 9, 2017

Chamber interest: Top Ten Cybersecurity Tips; Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce 2017-2018 Community Guide & Membership Directory; Foxconn chooses Mount Pleasant for its $10 billion Manufacturing facility; Quest for Amazon HQ has Indianapolis, Fishers mayors joining forces; Several Chicago suburbs offering sites for Amazon's second headquarters; Vicksburg wins national award from Robert Wood Johnson Foundation; Southwest Virginia tourism organizations receive grant funding; The Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Guide; Region’s judges/executive say Northern Kentucky is in a good state and collaboration is a big reason; Jackson County Chamber of Commerce moving to new spot on W. Michigan Avenue. Sparta Area Chamber news: Manufacturers Luncheon at Western Technical College, La Crosse

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

Chamber interest: Top Ten Cybersecurity Tips

Please read this advisory in order to protect your small business from ransomware. The following tips will also help secure your small business:

Protect against viruses, spyware, and other malicious code
Make sure each of your business’s computers are equipped with antivirus software and antispyware and update regularly. Such software is readily available online from a variety of vendors. All software vendors regularly provide patches and updates to their products to correct security problems and improve functionality. Configure all software to install updates automatically.

Secure your networks
Safeguard your Internet connection by using a firewall and encrypting information. If you have a Wi-Fi network, make sure it is secure and hidden. To hide your Wi-Fi network, set up your wireless access point or router so it does not broadcast the network name, known as the Service Set Identifier (SSID). Password protect access to the router.

Establish security practices and policies to protect sensitive information
Establish policies on how employees should handle and protect personally identifiable information and other sensitive data. Clearly outline the consequences of violating your business’s cybersecurity policies.

Educate employees about cyberthreats and hold them accountable
Educate your employees about online threats and how to protect your business’s data, including safe use of social networking sites. Depending on the nature of your business, employees might be introducing competitors to sensitive details about your firm’s internal business. Employees should be informed about how to post online in a way that does not reveal any trade secrets to the public or competing businesses. Hold employees accountable to the business’s Internet security policies and procedures.

Require employees to use strong passwords and to change them often
Consider implementing multifactor authentication that requires additional information beyond a password to gain entry. Check with your vendors that handle sensitive data, especially financial institutions, to see if they offer multifactor authentication for your account.

Employ best practices on payment cards
Work with your banks or card processors to ensure the most trusted and validated tools and anti-fraud services are being used. You may also have additional security obligations related to agreements with your bank or processor. Isolate payment systems from other, less secure programs and do not use the same computer to process payments and surf the Internet.

Are you ready for the shift from magnetic-strip payment cards to safer, more secure chip card technology, also known as “EMV”? October 1st is the deadline set by major U.S. credit card issuers to be in compliance. Visit SBA.gov/EMV for more information and resources.

Make backup copies of important business data and information
Regularly backup the data on all computers. Critical data includes word processing documents, electronic spreadsheets, databases, financial files, human resources files, and accounts receivable/payable files. Backup data automatically if possible, or at least weekly, and store the copies either offsite or on the cloud.

Control physical access to computers and network components
Prevent access or use of business computers by unauthorized individuals. Laptops can be particularly easy targets for theft or can be lost, so lock them up when unattended. Make sure a separate user account is created for each employee and require strong passwords. Administrative privileges should only be given to trusted IT staff and key personnel.

Create a mobile device action plan
Mobile devices can create significant security and management challenges, especially if they hold confidential information or can access the corporate network.. Require users to password protect their devices, encrypt their data, and install security apps to prevent criminals from stealing information while the phone is on public networks. Be sure to set reporting procedures for lost or stolen equipment.

Protect all pages on your public-facing websites, not just the checkout and sign-up pages. More information: SBA.GOV

Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce 2017-2018 Community Guide & Membership Directory
The Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce 2017-2018 Community Profile & Membership Directory is available at the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber today! Thanks to Jon Maynard, Pam Swain, Rosie Vassalo and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Oxford Mississippi 2017-2018 Community Guide & 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.

Foxconn chooses Mount Pleasant for its $10 billion Manufacturing facility

Taiwanese electronics giant Foxconn, best known as one of Apple’s major suppliers, is to build a $10 billion manufacturing campus in Mount Pleasant – a village in Racine County, Wisconsin. It had been suspected that the company would choose this location, and officials finally confirmed the news earlier this week.

Back in June, in was reported that Foxconn had narrowed the search for its new display plant to seven states — Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Texas. The company says it will build an industrial campus with around 20 million square feet of office space across 1.56 miles.

Foxconn will manufacture liquid crystal displays at the plant, which will be used in everything from self-driving cars to aircraft, as well as consumer products such as phones and televisions.

The campus will consist of a multibillion-dollar thin-film transistor liquid crystal display plant, a facility to package LCD modules, a skill-intensive facility focused on molding and tool-and-die processes, and an assembly operation to produce end-device units.

County and village officials offered Foxconn a $764 million incentives package to move to Mount Pleasant, on top of up to $3 billion from the state — providing the company can fulfill its jobs promise. Foxconn is expected to hire around 13,000 people on average salaries of $53,000, and the plant could attract around 150 Foxconn suppliers to the area, who will bring additional jobs. Read more: TechSpot.com

Quest for Amazon HQ has Indianapolis, Fishers mayors joining forces

The two cities that have been the most successful at luring technology companies to Indiana are making a combined pitch to win Amazon.com Inc.'s prized second headquarters.

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett and Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness on Monday announced they are collaborating with other state and regional economic development officials to submit a proposal to Amazon. The mayors said they will emphasize Central Indiana's existing tech ecosystem, its growing business climate and a plethora of available real estate sites in a proposal that is due Oct. 19.

Hogsett reached out to Fadness over the weekend, he said, and the mayors began talking with other area officials about how to join forces on the proposal. Hogsett declined to name sites where Amazon could go — and both mayors were careful not to overemphasize their own cities — but Hogsett said several sites along the White River could be attractive. Read more: Indy Star

Several Chicago suburbs offering sites for Amazon's second headquarters

Suburbs far and wide are interested in getting a piece of the Amazon pie.

The Seattle-based online behemoth last month announced it's looking for a second corporate headquarters and will spend more than $5 billion to house as many as 50,000 employees.

Earlier this week, Aurora threw its hat into the ring to provide a 90-acre site north of I-88 at the Eola Road interchange that also includes 10 acres in Naperville. Mayor Richard Irvin and state Rep. Stefanie Kifowit said a citywide fiber optics network Aurora provides is exactly what a high-tech industry such as Amazon needs.

"Aurora is in a strong position to be able to compete and make it more feasible for Amazon to move to the region," Irvin said.

But in contacting several counties and municipalities Thursday, numerous other sites emerged as potential candidates. Municipalities are expressing their interest to their respective counties, which are in turn passing the details along to the state by an Oct. 16 deadline.

Among the interested communities are Hoffman Estates, Oak Brook, Rutland Township, Schaumburg and West Chicago.

Amazon has asked for only one bid per metro area, and the state has taken responsibility for coordinating it, said Kevin Kramer, economic development director for Hoffman Estates.

"Wherever Amazon ends up in the Chicago area, if they do, it's going to be a win for everyone," he said. "We're all coordinated and working together."

Hoffman Estates officials would not discuss specific sites, but Village Manager Jim Norris noted that Amazon's original headquarters in Seattle is scattered among multiple sites.

Schaumburg Community Development Director Julie Fitzgerald said the village has also participated in the process. But she emphasized it's intended to be confidential, and there's little she can disclose about the details of what Schaumburg sent.

John Carpenter, president and CEO of the Choose DuPage Economic Development Alliance, said the West Chicago site could involve the DuPage Business Center, near DuPage Airport. The McDonald's campus in Oak Brook, which the company is vacating next year, encompasses 100 acres and has tollway visibility for a potential Amazon move.

Jacquelyn Reineke, media relations director for the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity, did not return phone calls seeking comment Thursday.

Naperville Mayor Steve Chirico said the city will help with the region's application to land the second Amazon headquarters by offering potential employees amenities such as housing, education, health care and transportation connections.

"As a support role, we do have a lot to offer," Chirico said. "We will be part of that solution." Read more: Daily Herald

Vicksburg wins national award from Robert Wood Johnson Foundation

A community-wide effort to improve the health and wellbeing of residents has paid off for Vicksburg.

It was announced Tuesday that Vicksburg is just one of eight cities to be chosen among 200 communities as a Robert Wood Johnson Culture of Health winner. The award includes a $25,000 cash prize and membership in a network of 35 other prize-winning communities that have demonstrated “unwavering efforts to ensure all residents have the opportunity to live healthier lives.”

Linda Fondren, founder of Shape Up Vicksburg stated, “when we make a commitment to do better for ourselves and then come together to help each other in our commitments, mountains can be moved.”

Fondren is one of four members of the Vicksburg Live Healthy Action Team that helped with Vicksburg becoming a finalist for the award in March from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The team also includes United Way of West Central Mississippi executive director Michele Connelly, city grants writer Marcia Weaver and former Vicksburg-Warren Chamber of Commerce executive director Jane Flowers.

“The cultural health prize, is not just about one person,” Fondren said. “It’s not about one program going on, it’s about what the entire city and county are doing to address health issues in our community.”

“It’s not something we did, other than just advocate for all the wonderful things that are happening here in Vicksburg,” Connelly said. “We were the vehicle of sharing the accomplishments of our entire community.”

Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs Jr., was also excited about the distinction. Read more: Vicksburg Post

Southwest Virginia tourism organizations receive grant funding

Several Southwest Virginia organizations have received matching grant funds from the Virginia Tourism Corp.’s Marketing Leverage Program.

The state program helps tourism entities attract more visitors by leveraging limited local marketing dollars through a local match of the state grant funds. Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe announced more than $967,000 in funds on Tuesday.

“We are making a strategic investment in one of Virginia’s most important and growing industries,” McAuliffe said in a news release.

Tourism is Virginia’s fifth largest industry, the release states.

“Every dollar spent on new product development means economic growth, jobs and improved quality of life for Virginia families,” McAuliffe said.

The Bristol Convention and Visitors Bureau received $25,000 for Discover Bristol marketing.

“We are thrilled to once again be recognized with a VTC Marketing Leverage grant,” Bristol Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Beth Rhinehart said Tuesday. “This $25,000 award allows Discover Bristol the ability to leverage the investment that the city of Bristol, Virginia, provides for marketing Bristol, Virginia.”

Rhinehart said the VTC’s partnership and support has “played a key role in Bristol having the largest increase in Traveler Economic Impact in Virginia this year — a 10 percent increase, which is triple the state average.” Read more: Herald Courier

The Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Guide

The Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Guide & Map is available at the chamber today ! Thanks to the Jennifer Andreas and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Cedarburg Community Guide

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.

Region’s judges/executive say Northern Kentucky is in a good state and collaboration is a big reason

The State of Northern Kentucky was the topic at Tuesday’s Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Eggs ‘N Issues discussion at Receptions in Erlanger.

The top elected officials in their respective counties credited a spirit of cooperation among elected officials and business and community leaders throughout the region for Northern Kentucky’s solid economic outlook.Judges/Executive Gary Moore of Boone County, Steve Pendery of Campbell County and Kris Knochelmann of Kenton County discussed a wide range of topics, including tax reform, the new regional communications system and growth.

Moore, who was first elected in 1998, has witnessed Boone County’s continued transition from a largely rural area to a diverse community with significant growth in population and industry.

Since 2000, Boone County’s population has increased from 86,000 residents to nearly 130,000 in 2017. Improvements in infrastructure including the construction of Aero Parkway and the widening of Mt. Zion Road, which is now in progress. In January, Amazon Prime announced plans for a $1.4 billion hub, to be located on CVG land in the county.

“A quick look at Northern Kentucky would suggest that we are doing well, and we are,” Moore said.

Metrics such as positive job growth, unemployment rates, payroll tax receipts, building permits, home sales and household income levels, Moore said, are all indications that the county, and the region are prospering. Read more: NKY Tribune

Jackson County Chamber of Commerce moving to new spot on W. Michigan Avenue

The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce is moving to the city's main corridor.

The chamber office is expected to move to the first floor of 134 W. Michigan Ave. this fall, said Mindy Bradish-Orta, chamber president and CEO.

The chamber's current office at 141 S. Jackson St. also houses Experience Jackson and the Anchor Initiative. The chamber moved there in 2006 and purchased the building in 2009, Bradish-Orta said.

Since then, the three organizations have grown to 10 full-time employees combined and space became limited, Brandish-Orta said.

It was important to stay in the city's downtown, Brandish-Orta said.

"It wasn't even an option leaving the downtown," she said. "It gives us the visibility and shows the community we are committed to rebuilding the (downtown)."

David Klein, current co-owner of the building at 134 W. Michigan Ave, will take over the chamber's old building at 141 S. Jackson St., Brandish-Orta said. Read more: M LIVE

Sparta Area Chamber news: Manufacturers Luncheon at Western Technical College, La Crosse

We encourage area manufacturers, educators, and others to attend this event.

Luncheon/Speaking Event

Time: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM CDT

Event Description:

Western Technical College Business and Industry Services, TUMMA (The Upper Mississippi Manufacturing Alliance), and the Western Wisconsin Workforce Development Board invite you to an appreciation luncheon. We encourage area manufactures, educators, and others to attend this event. We will also be spotlighting best practices within our K-12 districts that partner with manufacturers, available customized trainings to advance skills of your employees, and more!

Keynote Speaker, Dan Conroy
Dan Conroy retired after 26 years with Nexen Group, Inc. in Webster, WI and Vadnais Heights, MN as Vice President of Human Resources. He served as the Operations Manager at the advanced manufacturing facility in Webster for five years. Prior to that, he was Nexen's Human Resources Director, where he was responsible for human resources functions for 19 years. More information: Sparta Area Chamber

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