Indy Ranks High for Strong Labor Market; Greater Reston Chamber: A Letter from the CEO; #FamousChamber of Commerce Quotation: Being Appreciated!!; “The biggest issue in our country.” NKY Chamber President talks infrastructure; Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce: Taking Care of Business Radio Show Podcast Now Available; Elmhurst Chamber: IACCE Small Business Webinar Series; New Arrival: Duneland Chamber of Commerce Community Resource Guide; Troy Schools Gear Up for “Step Up to the Plate” Promotion & Chance to Win $1,000 Cash Prize; Grand Rapids Area Chamber: Creative Chambers program; Rochester Regional Chamber: Prepare For Lift-Off!; Applications Now Open for 2021-2022 Leadership Fox Cities Class; The value of supporting the EMBDC; Future Mississippi entrepreneurs showcase business ideas at statewide forum; Job Opening: Executive Director, Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce - Kankakee, IL; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Apps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory Sales and Community Profiles: The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in the USA!

 Indy Ranks High for Strong Labor Market

Indianapolis has the fourth-strongest labor market among the nation's largest metropolitan areas, according to The Wall Street Journal. The publication touts the city's mix of strong economic sectors that have helped to attract and retain workers during the pandemic, including life sciences, manufacturing, and logistics and e-commerce. Indy Chamber Chief Executive Officer Michael Huber says, however, there are other sectors that continue to struggle to find the talent they need to grow.

In an interview with Inside INdiana Business, Huber said a continued focus on talent will help all industries grow during and after the pandemic.

"The best thing that we can do is continue to play offense on the accessibility of our city, making sure that there's a mix of housing, urban and suburban, throughout the region," said Huber. "There's a way that Indianapolis, we believe, could win in the long term. Indianapolis has got a growing tech sector. Indianapolis has got a growing life sciences [and] advanced manufacturing sector and a lot of people, particularly young people, I think are reevaluating their life choices and asking, 'Is it worth it to incur the expense to be in a New York or to be in a San Francisco?'"

The Wall Street Journal looked at five indicators to determine how well labor markets performed in each area: unemployment rate, change in nonfarm payrolls, labor force participation rate, change in labor force size, and change in median wages.

Huber says it is important to note along with the recognition from the publication that there are still many people in the Indy community who continue to struggle from the economic impact of the pandemic.

While the pandemic has led to an increase in new startups in Indianapolis and throughout the state, Huber says to sustain and grow its labor market, the city needs to double down on the environment for entrepreneurs.

"One thing that COVID has really exposed is that we don't have a big enough support structure for entrepreneurs to create those jobs," he said. "Indianapolis is a very attractive place to be, as evidenced by this survey, but we need to do more for the entrepreneur."

Huber adds connectivity throughout the city is also important to growing the labor force, including more mass transit options and a greater mix of housing in different communities and neighborhoods throughout Indy.

"This study basically said [Indy] is the fourth-hottest labor market in the country. To really grow from that, you've got to offer people a lot of choices in terms of where they want to live because a lot of people are going to want to live urban. Some people are going want to live suburban. Some people are going to want to live on five acres, so always being cognizant that it's not any one thing [and] making sure that we're offering the broadest possible range of options so people know they have a lot of choices and can access everything that our region provides." Read more: Inside Indiana Business

Greater Reston Chamber: A Letter from the CEO

 

Dear Greater Reston Chamber Members, Exciting times are on the horizon for our community! The GRCC staff and I are so pleased to be able to move into a summer full of great programs and events with each of you. We thank you for your investment in your business, and our larger economy, through your Chamber membership. As our region eases restrictions on social gatherings, the Greater Reston Chamber will heed the call of its members and provide more opportunities for you to network with each other. The month of May will be highlighted with the return of our in-person monthly Networking Night! It will be our first in-person event since last fall’s golf tournament. As always, we will make sure safety protocols are followed to provide everyone a comfortable experience. In addition, the month of May will feature two signature events. We kick off the month with our 9th Annual B2G Matchmaking Conference & Small Business Expo…the largest event of its kind outside the Beltway! And we will close the month by honoring the brave men and women who serve as our county’s First Responders as we host the 2021 Fairfax Valor Awards. Please stay tuned for more details later this month. We look forward to seeing you – virtually or in-person – at a Chamber event soon!   Charles Kapur President & CEO #FamousChamber of Commerce Quotation:  Being Appreciated!! Being told you are appreciated is one of the simplest, yet most incredible things you can hear. “The biggest issue in our country.” NKY Chamber President talks infrastructure It’s hard to find a solution when it comes to improving aging infrastructure. Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce President Brent Cooper says that’s particularly true when it comes to the Brent Spence Bridge. “We think this issue is the biggest issue in our country at the moment, especially coming out of the pandemic,” Cooper said. “I often joke that I’m the Charlie Brown of the Brent Spence Bridge. I’ve been talking about this for so long, and every time we think we got it done, Lucy pulls the football out from under us and we fall on our backs.” Cooper says it’s an uphill, decades-long battle. He said that in his nearly four years as president, the bridge has either been closed completely, or reduced to only two lanes more than 25-percent of the time. “That has huge economic impact and a whole slew of negative consequences for our region and the state,” Cooper said. He said he hopes the bridge can get the facelift it needs within President Joe Biden’s infrastructure plan, but said unless the details are agreed on down the aisle, he can see that dream slipping away. “The infrastructure piece that refers to broadband and that talks about high speed for our country, I think that’s important,” Cooper said. He also said rail and mass transit should be a part of the bill, but disagreed with items like removing all lead pipes that carry drinking water. “Focus on the stuff that is bipartisan and we can get a broad agreement on,” Cooper said. On that same note, Cooper said it should be paid for by users. These are all things that would inch republican lawmakers, like Senator Mitch McConnell, closer to an agreement. “If you break it up and have an infrastructure package and not a big tax increase and pay for it in a credible way,” McConnell said at a vaccination press conference on the University of Kentucky’s campus. Cooper said if a solution can’t be reached, he’s worried about the future of infrastructure in the entire country. “If you can’t get something that’s so obvious resolved, then the system’s broken.” Read more: WTVQ.com Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce: Taking Care of Business Radio Show Podcast Now Available Apr 26th, 2021 Did you miss the Taking Care of Business radio show sponsored by Bank First this morning on WOSH? Listen now for news on Oshkosh economic development highlights, real estate and grants with featured guest Jason Monet, WBD. https://www.oshkoshchamber.com/taking-care-of-business-radio-broadcast/ Elmhurst Chamber: IACCE Small Business Webinar Series In partnership with the Illinois Association of Chamber of Commerce Executive (IACCE), our Chamber will stage “Tools for Success:  Navigating the New Normal,” a five-part Small Business Webinar Series via Zoom video conferencing from 9 to 10:30 a.m. on the third Wednesday in the months of April through August.  The per-webinar registration fees are $15 per member and $30 per non-member. New Arrival: Duneland Chamber of Commerce  Community Resource Guide The Duneland Chamber of Commerce Community Resource Guide is available at the Duneland Chamber today! Thanks to Maura Durham, June Russell and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!! Town Square Publications can help you accomplish your chamber's gloss map, directory, community profile or publication needs at no expense to the chamber. Please email John Dussman at jdussman@tspubs.com or call (847)-427-4633. Duneland Chamber Directory   Troy Schools Gear Up for “Step Up to the Plate” Promotion & Chance to Win $1,000 Cash Prize From April 26-30 select restaurants will offer 20% OFF to patrons. April ­16, 2021—Troy, MI — A partnership between Troy Chamber member restaurants and Troy School District (TSD), “Step Up to the Plate” is slated for Monday, April 26 – Friday, April 30. During these dates, participating restaurants will offer diners 20% OFF their food purchases if they show a “Step Up to the Plate” promotional piece (i.e., school flyer, ad, email, or other communication about the program). Discount offer is only valid for food and non-alcoholic beverages. You can download the Step Up flyer on the Troy Chamber website – troychamber.com. Diners may then turn in their detailed receipts to the Troy school of their choice. Receipts are due to a Troy Schools by Thursday, May 6. The school receiving the most money in receipts will win a $1,000 cash prize! This promotional event is sponsored by Michigan Schools and Government Credit Union. “As a credit union with a long history of investing in education, we’re honored to support the annual Step Up to the Plate event with the Troy Chamber and Troy School District,” said Ann Jones, Vice President Marketing and Business Development. “We know from our annual Classroom Cash Grant program that teachers and schools are always in need of additional funding, so we’re excited to sponsor this event and help provide an additional $1,000 cash prize to the school with the most receipts collected. And with many MSGCU’s team members working and living in Troy, we are looking forward to supporting our great local restaurants.” The 16 participating restaurants include: Beyond Juice + Eatery – 830 E. Big Beaver Rd, Troy Cedar Grille – 5377 Crooks Rd, Troy Celebrity Catering – 75 W. Long Lake Rd, Troy Clean Eatz Troy – 519 East Big Beaver Rd, Troy Condado Tacos – 724 W. Big Beaver Rd, Troy Duck Donuts – 2920 W. Maple Rd, Troy McVee’s Pub & Grub – 1129 E. Long Lake Rd, Troy Mr. Kabob Xpress – 2036 W. Big Beaver Rd, Troy Olgas Fresh Grille – 1853 E. Big Beaver Rd, Troy Papa Romano’s Pizza/Mr. Pita – 5399 Crooks Rd, Troy Shield’s Restaurant Bar Pizzeria – 1476 W. Maple Rd, Troy Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea – 774 W. Big Beaver Rd, Troy The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill – 708 W. Big Beaver Rd, Troy Tropical Smoothie Café – 1569 Main St, Suite A, Clawson Tropical Smoothie Café – 1735 E. Big Beaver Rd. Troy Troy Escape/Eats & Crafts – 1950 E. Square Lake Rd, Troy For a copy of the flyer, watch for email updates from the Troy School District, or visit troychamber.com. Grand Rapids Area Chamber: Creative Chambers program The Creative Chambers program brings together individuals across creative industries to connect with one another and to build relationships with businesses seeking creative talent. By fostering opportunities for those working in creative industries, we can enhance our cultural and creative vibrancy in the Grand Rapids area, and continue creating great. During the April workshop, Michigan Department of Treasury tax education specialists will present tax basics for small businesses, including specific illustrations and examples for folks in the creative industry. Topics include sales/use tax responsibility, tax exempt transactions and purchases, tax implications when hiring employees versus contractors, registering your business with Treasury, and filing guidance. Tuesday, April 20 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Virtual Zoom Meeting https://www.grandrapids.org/event/creative-chambers-workshop/ Rochester Regional Chamber: Prepare For Lift-Off!   LaunchLab presented by the Rochester Regional Chamber is preparing for liftoff on June 4th. LaunchLab is an online platform where you can learn from local experts. Get unstuck with courses on: 1.  Starting a new business venture 2.  Networking 3.  Transitioning into online sales 4.  Branding your business 5.  and MORE! Registration opens THIS week. Join the exclusive, growing LaunchLab Community on Facebook TODAY!! Applications Now Open for 2021-2022 Leadership Fox Cities Class FOX CITIES, Wis. (May 3 2021) – Fox Cities professionals are now invited to apply for the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce’s 2021-2022 Leadership Fox Cities class. Since 1991, this Chamber program has shaped the community’s leaders with immersive educational experiences that inspire engagement. Countless alumni credit their Leadership Fox Cities experience with networking, career, and philanthropic successes that have guided them in leadership and given them new insights into the strengths, opportunities, and challenges that exist within the Fox Cities region – defined by the Chamber as Wisconsin’s Calumet, Outagamie, and northern Winnebago Counties. The annual class comprises approximately 40 members who are chosen via the application process. Tuition assistance is available, and many employers provide professional development funds. The class gathers monthly, from September through May, for educational sessions focused on specific community topics ranging from human services and arts to government and law enforcement. The classes include prominent guest speakers, hands-on experiences, tours, and opportunities for relationship-building. Participants are also placed into small groups and are tasked with identifying an issue or program that needs attention in the community. Working collaboratively, the groups plan and execute sustainable community projects that are presented at Leadership Fox Cities Commencement in May. Applications for the 2021-2022 session are being accepted now through June 21. Apply online at http://bit.ly/LFCApplication. The value of supporting the EMBDC By Michael Castle Jr. President and CEO, Castle We are moving to Texas. This is what I was thinking after many months of contemplating Progressive Pipeline’s, now Castle, next growth opportunities. We had begun to explore moving our corporate headquarters to the energy capital of the world, Houston, Texas. This was only fitting in the fact that we build energy infrastructure throughout the United States and what better place to have a corporate headquarters than Houston. We had outgrown our current corporate office location south of town and needed office space to expand. Why should Castle stay in Mississippi? We need a location that will support our vision and growth by helping us retain and attract great employees including energy executive level employees. The East Mississippi Business Development Corporation “EMBDC” team had received word that we were moving, and they immediately jumped into action. Bill Hannah reached out to me, set up visits to explore vacant office space options, which eventually lead to our temporary office location in downtown Meridian and the purchase of the old Melton Hardware building, which will become our new corporate headquarters later this year. We were not a member of EMBDC and did not see the value in becoming a member. Annually, Castle generates only a small portion of our revenue in Mississippi, much less Lauderdale County, which led to my decision of not joining and appreciating EMBDC’s value. I now realize my view was short sighted. Castle is now an active member and will continue to support EMBDC. I learned that EMBDC not only promotes opportunities to attract new businesses to East Mississippi, but they also work to enhance and support existing business. The sacrifice, effort, and commitment of the EMBDC board and team showed me they believed Castle to be an important part of the growth and future of our community. They sacrificially leased the upstairs portion of their office to us, introduced us to local, state, and federal incentive opportunities and facilitated many meetings that eventually led to our investment in the future of our company and our Mississippi community. The decision to stay home and build upon our existing foundation right here in Meridian was made because of the people in our state and community, led by the EMBDC. The support to our company and Castle family of employees has been nothing short of phenomenal and something to be proud of. We did not end our story with the decision to stay at home. You will see Castle employees are more engaged in the community than ever before by actively participating in events and organizations that promote a better quality of life. We are no longer that little company on the south side of town that you might have heard of but know nothing about. Who knew that we employee 120 full time employees with plans to expand to 160 or more and at times have up to 3,000 seasonal employees? Your EMBDC made it their business to better understand our needs and were willing to listen and help us find solutions to our growth opportunities. Read more: Meridian Star Future Mississippi entrepreneurs showcase business ideas at statewide forum Kendall Walker received instant feedback from the judges as she pitched her Tupelo-based tutoring business at the 2021 Mississippi Entrepreneurship Forum. The 2020 University of Mississippi graduate was among about 200 college students getting advice from business pros. “This program adds so much value in the state of Mississippi,’’ Walker, 23, said after competing at the virtual program. “It allows students to pursue their passions.’’ The 2016 Tupelo High alumna will continue the student tutoring business, now at the Lee County Library, as a graduate student on her way to becoming a speech therapist. Millsaps College MBA student Gabe Ryce showcased his ideas at the 6th annual forum April 13-14 as he ponders the opening of an investment firm within five years. “My entrepreneurial spirit fuels my goal.’’ The 22-year-old Jonesboro, Georgia native first experienced entrepreneurship as a young boy with a neighborhood lawn business. A 2020 Millsaps graduate with a bachelor’s in economics and business administration, he’s enhanced his skills with the ELSEWorks program on the Jackson campus. That’s the Else School of Management’s vibrant entrepreneurial program. Its unique mission supports community revitalization, education, culture and health initiatives in Midtown Jackson. Ryce is building his career skills in other ways as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Mississippi National Guard. Leaders with the McLean Institute for Public Service and Community Engagement at Ole Miss, Innovate Mississippi and the Mississippi Development Authority partnered to make the virtual conference a success. Students from Mississippi’s eight public universities participated with counterparts from Millsaps, Mississippi College and Belhaven University. Mississippi College entrepreneurship and marketing major Rachel Graham, 21, talked up Studio 274 at Tuesday’s activity dubbed the NextUp Student Pitch. It’s her new business model for ballet studios. Weeks before the conference, the Wetumpka, Alabama resident met with a mentor helping polish her presentation. Her Studio 274 proposal would strengthen parental involvement, get the community engaged and make owners more business-minded. Making her proposal sweeter is Rachel’s presentation was announced Wednesday as a 2nd place finisher. That includes a $1,500 award. First-place (and a $2,500 award) went to Mississippi State University student Neil Hickman with his Hickman Farms plan. MC's Terry Cox, a Semmes, Alabama native, of Argo Creations captured third-place (with a $1,000 award). Gema Casas, a Mississippi College MBA student from Monterrey, Mexico, received valuable tips. She seeks to own a sports-related business. “I want to encourage more women in business and be part of this trend,’’ says the member of MC’s nationally ranked table tennis team. A McLean Institute project manager, J.R. Love notes the conference has grown since Clarksdale became the first stop in 2015. It began as the Rural Entrepreneurship Forum. The event moved to Tupelo in 2016. Other host cities in recent years were Greenwood, Oxford and Jackson in 2019. The COVID-19 pandemic cancelled the 2020 event. It prevented Kendall Walker from going in 2020, but not this week. An Ole Miss communication sciences and disorders graduate, she believes “Kendall’s Tutoring’’ will benefit by increasing its social media visibility thanks to conference feedback. While this is a two-day event, students sharpen entrepreneurial skills on campuses year-round. The Center for Economic and Entrepreneurship Education at the University of Southern Mississippi does just that in Hattiesburg. Mississippi State University students learn in the entrepreneurship program at the James Bagley College of Engineering in Starkville. Classes are designed for engineering students pursuing a career path combining technical and business skills. The Jackson State University Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship supports the creative activities of JSU faculty, staff and students. JSU links them to community and industry partners. Jeff Rent, President/CEO of the Greater Jackson Chamber of Commerce, applauds the work of the institutions, groups like Innovate Mississippi and the annual Entrepreneurship Forum. “Innovate Mississippi has a successful track record of assisting and equipping entrepreneurs from across the state with the tools necessary to take an idea from concept to reality.’’ The 2022 Mississippi Entrepreneurship Forum is booked at the Vicksburg Convention Center next April. Washington Chamber: Southeast Iowa Communities Receive Portable Photo Studios for Small Business Owners Those with a small or home-based business wanting to market their products online can use a free resource from the Washington Chamber of Commerce. The chamber was given a portable photo studio as part of a statewide launch from America’s Small Business Development Center to deliver the studios to 942 communities in Iowa. The SBDC has partnered with Main Street Iowa, Downtown Resource Center, ISU Extension and Outreach, Iowa Rural Development Council and more to make these studios available at key places in communities such as chambers of commerce. Washington Chamber members can borrow the studio equipment at no charge, and the City of Keota has received a portable studio as well. You can find more information about the initiative by visiting here. ...Active on Indeed in the past three days... Job Opening: Executive Director, Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce - Kankakee, IL Salary From $50,000 a year Job Type Full-time Number of hires for this role 1 Qualifications Management Experience: 1 year (Preferred) Leadership Experience: 1 year (Preferred) Full Job Description 200 E. Court St., Suite 710 Kankakee, IL 60901 815.351.9068 POSITION SPECIFICATION The Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit, membership organization whose primary role is to unite businesses, professional individuals, and firms throughout the region, thus creating a central agency that lends itself to improving business and building a better community. Serving as “The Voice of Business” since 2011, the Chamber represents over 400 members ranging from entrepreneurs and small business owners to Fortune 500 companies. The Chamber leads public policy and business growth initiatives, and creates meaningful events and programs to inform, engage and connect members to each other and the community. Member Value: The Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce strives to provide value to its members. In an organization of over 400 members, value comes in a variety of forms, from networking and educational opportunities, to business advocacy. Business Growth Initiatives: The Chamber is a strategic partner with the Economic Alliance of Kankakee County and the Kankakee County Convention and Visitors Bureau. Together the three organizations develop programs and provide resources to area businesses that aid in recruitment and retention efforts throughout Kankakee County. Events & Programs: The Kankakee County Chamber facilitates over 70 events and programs each year. From signature events like the Annual Awards Dinner, TasteFest, and Golf Outing, to more intimate events like Women in Networking, Black Business Council, lunch and learns, to help meet the needs of businesses of all sizes. The Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce employs 2 full time people and is governed by a volunteer board comprised of approximately 22 members. Additional information can be found at kankakeecountychamber.com Position Summary The Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director provides the organization with its general strategic and operational leadership, along with the support and direction of the Board of Directors. The Executive Director will articulate and advance the Chamber’s value proposition and strategic goals. The Executive Director is the organization’s primary spokesperson and is responsible for building relationships and collaborating with the business and public and private sectors. Key Relationships Reports to: Chairman of the Board Executive Committee Direct reports: TBD Other key relationships: Chamber members Business community-at-large Elected officials at City, County, State and Federal levels Media Other related business organizations Major Responsibilities The Executive Director is responsible for leading and managing the Chamber in an effective and efficient manner. Working with the Board and key stakeholders, he/she will: Further engage the Board of Directors and Chamber member companies and their employees, creating an agenda and programming that provides value to its membership. Act as the key spokesperson, developing relationships and building credibility with both members and prospective members, as well as other major constituency groups. Grow membership. Create and manage a fiscally sound and transparent operating structure. CANDIDATE SPECIFICATION: KEY SELECTION CRITERIA Ideal Experience The successful background should include most, if not all, of the following: Minimum of 3 years of management (operations) and leadership experience in an organization of similar size and scope. A bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience is required. Demonstrated success communicating and promoting an organization’s message and/or agenda. Experience working with volunteer leaders. Experience serving on or with not-for-profit boards is a plus. Sufficient community stature to represent the Chamber on and before panels and key business and civic boards. Sales Experience Critical Competencies for Success Leadership: The new Executive Director will be an innovative and collaborative individual who will advance a broad, pro-business agenda aimed at growing the local and regional economy. Technology Skills: In a small office environment it is important that the Executive Director know how to navigate an IT system, database, and graphic design applications. Marketing and communications in today’s competitive market requires tech savviness and the Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director needs to be highly skilled in this area. Public Awareness and Advocacy: The Executive Director must work to build coalitions; educate and engage business leaders, their companies and their employees; and create widespread awareness of policies and legislation that impact business, jobs and the economy as needed. The Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. We are committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all people and to hire and promote individuals solely based on their qualifications for the job. Job Type: Full-time Pay: From $50,000.00 per year Schedule: 8 hour shift Experience: Management Experience: 1 year (Preferred) Leadership Experience: 1 year (Preferred) Work Location: One location Work Remotely: No COVID-19 Precaution(s): Remote interview process Virtual meetings More information:  https://www.kankakeecountychamber.com/ - (815)-351-9068   Good morning #ChamberWorld! It's going to be a great day!  Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Apps, Quarterly Magazines, Digital Directory Sales and Community Profiles: The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in the USA! Town Square Publications, a division of the Daily Herald Media Group, is a national chamber custom publishing group that specializes in developing partnerships by producing high-quality print and digitally integrated publications along with other added value programs dedicated to creating relevancy for local chambers of commerce and other membership focused organizations interested in raising non-dues revenues. Town Square Publications parent company, Paddock Publications, has over 100 years’ experience of print product development and dedicated customer service in communities throughout the Midwest. Our experience allows Town Square Publications to offer you attractive royalty and non-dues revenue share streams, provide direct distribution of your custom designed printed publications, including digital and mobile integration, and all with the quickest turn-around times available in the industry. Town Square also offers multi-media maps in both print and online formats, both with our No-Cost guarantee. More information: Town Square Publications Chambers of Commerce and member focused organizations serve as a valuable resource in the local marketplace. The networking opportunities and representation with a wide variety of diverse businesses in your community is the catalyst of a successful organization. For further information about Town Square's publishing partnership with chambers of commerce and our No-Cost guarantee and Earned Revenue Share Program, To request your chamber publication or map proposal, contact Town Square Chamber Proposal or email John Dussman with the subject line: Chamber Publication Proposal Requested. Thank you!

Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and UnitedHealthcare launch the UnitedHealthcare Community Chamber Program statewide in Indiana; New Arrival: Duneland Chamber of Commerce Community Resource Guide; Virginia Peninsula Chamber: Veterans Day: MY STORY IS NOT UNCOMMON OR UNIQUE; Lake Zurich Area Chamber: A Solopreneur Event: Just because you are a business of one doesn't mean you need to be alone...; Desplaines Chamber: Veterans Back-to-Work Boot Camp; Marion Chamber: Shop Local for a Very Merry Marion; Wauconda Area Chamber: FREE STREET SIGNS: Follow the 3W's; From Ed Holfper at the New Berlin Chamber: 10 Inspiring Business Books to Read Right Now; The 2020-2021 Geneva Lake West Chamber of Commerce Community Resource Guide; GUEST VIEW: Who is the EMBDC, what's its purpose and why should I be a member?; SBA Wisconsin: Five Things to Know About PPP Forgiveness; SBA: State of Michigan Weatherization Grant; Northern Kentucky Chamber: Annual Celebration, Presented by Fifth Third Bank; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines and Community Profiles: The best Chamber Partner in the USA!

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

Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and UnitedHealthcare launch the UnitedHealthcare Community Chamber Program statewide in Indiana



The Shelby County Chamber of Commerce and UnitedHealthcare have teamed up to launch the

UnitedHealthcare Community Chamber Program statewide.

The UnitedHealthcare Community Chamber Program delivers health plans built for business by

offering a range of plan designs, including built-in pharmacy, wellness rewards for employees

and $0 copays for virtual care visits. Potential savings of up to 25% on your medical premiums

compared to other UnitedHealthcare plans in Indiana, access to a large local and national

network including 1.1M+ doctors and health care professionals and 6,000+ hospitals, plus

additional savings of up to 4% on monthly premiums when you offer a UnitedHealthcare

specialty plan, like dental or vision, alongside your medical plan.

We would like to invite your Chamber to join with us in offering this valuable new benefit to

your members.

• Dozens of plan designs and dedicated support

• The value of working with UnitedHealthcare

Support your members and your community by working with UnitedHealthcare and the Shelby

County Chamber of Commerce to give your member businesses access to quality employee

health plans at competitive rates.

The UnitedHealthcare Community Chamber Program is built to:

• Help your Chamber make membership even more attractive to local businesses by

adding health plan access as a benefit

• Help your member businesses thrive with access to benefit-rich plans at rates they may

not find on their own

• Help your community by supporting healthier local businesses and employees

Please contact me at the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce to find out more about this

exciting new program and how you can participate.

Sincerely,

Julie Metz, Executive Director

Call Julie at (317) 398-6647

 

New Arrival: Duneland Chamber of Commerce  Community Resource Guide

The Duneland Chamber of Commerce Community Resource Guide is available at the Duneland Chamber today! Thanks to Maura Durham, June Russell and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!!

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

Duneland Chamber Directory 

Virginia Peninsula Chamber: Veterans Day: MY STORY IS NOT UNCOMMON OR UNIQUE



BY BOB MCKENNA, PRESIDENT & CEO OF THE VIRGINIA PENINSULA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 

Happy Veterans Day. My name is Bob McKenna and I am currently the president and CEO of the Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, but more importantly, I am a 27-year veteran of the Navy. 

I am very proud to have served my country and am very grateful to those who have served and who continue to serve with honor. Most of you probably know this, but 101 years ago today was the very first commemoration of Armistice Day. The original Armistice Day, Nov. 11, 1918, marked the end of the Great War, or World War I, and the holiday began as a way to honor the heroism of Americans who served in that war.

Legislation was passed in 1938 making it a legal holiday known as Armistice Day. In 1954, following World War II and the Korean War, Congress amended the Act of 1938 by changing the word Armistice to Veterans. In 1968, the Uniform Holidays Bill moved Veterans Day to the fourth Monday of October. This didn’t sit too well with many people, and several states did not comply and continued to celebrate it on the original date. Finally, on Sept. 20, 1975, President Gerald Ford (a WWII veteran and Navy hero himself) signed a law returning Veterans Day to its original date.

It is important to remember the difference between this day and other similar days of remembrance and honor. Memorial Day honors those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our great nation. Armed Forces Day honors those who are presently serving. On Veterans Day, we honor all who have served our nation during many periods and many wars and conflicts — WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Grenada, Desert Storm, Somalia, Just Cause, in the Balkans, Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom and countless other smaller/lesser known wars and conflicts.

Let me switch gears for a brief moment and answer the question: why did I choose to serve? My father was a Marine in the early days of Vietnam, my father-in-law was a Chosin Marine. My brother and four brothers-in-law served in the Navy. Another brother-in-law is a Marine vet. Continuing that line, one of my sons served in the Navy for four years, attended Christopher Newport University on the GI Bill and is now a proud Green Beret with the Army.

I often joke that I joined as a way to curry favor with a skeptical man who would soon after become my father-in-law, and then served for 27 years as a surface warfare officer — and dragged his daughter and grandchildren around the U.S., Europe and Japan for over two decades. I think my story is not uncommon or unique. People join for many reasons: for the challenge, to prove something, because their father served, to earn an education, to break a cycle of failure, poverty or abuse; or because a local judge gave them a choice between serving time or serving their country.

But in the end, they all come to understand that their service has a much deeper meaning to them — a sense of honor and dignity, self-sacrifice, patriotism, and finally, an understanding that they have become a part of something much larger than themselves. They take great pride in the fact that they wear the same uniform, salute the same flag and defend the same ideals as heroes like George Patton, Bull Halsey, Chuck Yeager and Chesty Puller. They take pride in their oath to support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America against all enemies foreign and domestic, and to bear true faith and allegiance to the same. They hold their heads up proudly (and rightly so) because they share heritage and history with a long line of people who stood up, made sacrifices and defended the freedom of the greatest country the world has ever known.

We take great pride in the industrial and manufacturing strength of this great nation. We build the world’s greatest ships, fastest and most capable fighter jets, the most powerful weapons and armor, but our greatest asset is and always has been the soldier, the sailor, the marine, the airman and the coast guardsman who trains for and fights our nation’s wars and, in the process, ensures our enduring freedom. So, on this Veterans Day of 2020, our nation salutes each of you and says: Thank you so much for your service. May God bless you and continue to bless the United States of America.

Original article published HERE

Lake Zurich Area Chamber: A Solopreneur Event: Just because you are a business of one doesn't mean you need to be alone...

SPEAKERS: 
Brad Bailey - Fifth Third Bank
Mark DaValle - Bryant & DaValle, P.C.
Derek Hartmann - Fraser Wealth Management

The format to this meeting will be a panel discussion of three Chamber members in the financial industry who will share topics on what Solopreneuers need to know from a financial perspective. It will be the most robust conversation if attendees plan to bring their own questions for the panelists!

Some example discussion questions are: 
How do you know when it's time to get an accountant? Or a bookkeeper? 
How do you know if it's the right time to expand your business and get a business loan? 
What are the different ways to raise funds for a business expansion and how do you decide which way to go? (use personal finances, friends and family, line of credit, bank loan, outside financing???) 
What software do other solopreneurs use? QuickBooks, Freshbooks, etc? What do you recommend they use? 
How much money should I be leaving in the business vs paying myself? Are there different ways to pull the money out? Strategies for this? 
What can I claim as a business expense? 
Are there resources on financial topics you'd recommend to solopreneurs? 

Date: November 19, 2020
Time: 12:00 PM - 01:00 PM CST 
Location: From your desk.

A Zoom link will be sent out prior to the meeting. 

QUESTIONS ABOUT THE MEETING? 

Email: cslattery@lzacc.com 

Desplaines Chamber: Veterans Back-to-Work Boot Camp

GOING LIVE TODAY!!! 

TUNE IN TO ABC 7 CHICAGO WINDY CITY LIVE TODAY! ANDREA BIWER IS JOINED BY MARNE DEITHORN FROM RIVERS CASINO TO TALK ABOUT  THE VETERANS BACK TO WORK BOOT CAMP ON THE 1:30 AND 2:00 SEGMENTS! 

WE ARE SO EXCITED!!! 

NO T.V.? LIVE STREAM AT WWW.ABC7CHICAGO.COM

Marion Chamber: Shop Local for a Very Merry Marion

November 16th - 28th 

The Marion Chamber of Commerce is partnering with the City of Marion on their 'Very Merry Marion' holiday festivities. Shop at your local retailers and restaurants beginning Monday, November 16th through Small Business Saturday on November 28th for your chance to win a $25 gift card to chamber business. 

If you would like your business to be included as a "Very Merry" location, give the office a call and we will add you to the list. 

Wauconda Area Chamber: FREE STREET SIGNS: Follow the 3W's

IF YOU ARE AN AREA BUSINESS THAT HAS A HIGHLY VISIBLE STOREFRONT, HELP YOURSELF TO OUR NEW 24" X 36" OUTDOOR SIGNS. SAVE OUR BUSINESSES! CALL THE OFFICE AT 847-526-5580 AND WE WILL DELIVER! While supplies last.

From Ed Holfper at the New Berlin Chamber: 10 Inspiring Business Books to Read Right Now

Looking for a quick boost of inspiration during these uncertain and difficult times? Our friends at the U.S. Chamber's CO— have got you covered. Check out these 10 business books offering the fresh perspective we could all use right now to help motivate you and keep your company thriving:

 

“No One's Listening and It's Your Fault: Get Your Message Heard During Organizational Transformations” by Pam Marmon

A framework to help leaders get their message across in even the most challenging of times. Click here to learn more about this read.

“The Ride of a Lifetime: Lessons Learned from 15 Years as CEO of the Walt Disney Company” by Robert Iger

The principles of true leadership, including optimism and decisiveness in the face of difficulty. 

“Naked at Work: A Leader’s Guide to Fearless Authenticity” by Danessa Knaupp

A step-by-step guide for authentic, effective, and inspirational leadership. Click here to learn more about this read.

 “The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers” by Ben Horowitz

“The Hard Thing About Hard Things” offers valuable advice on how to establish and run a successful startup, sprinkled with Horowitz’ humor, “real talk” and rap lyrics. This book is useful for both aspiring and established entrepreneurs looking for insight on building a business, even when there are no easy answers.

 “The Motivation Myth: How High Achievers Really Set Themselves Up to Win” by Jeff Haden

The central theory in “The Motivation Myth” is “motivation is a result of process, not a cause.” Haden encourages readers to reframe their thinking regarding motivation and success and tackle their goals through a series of clear and repeatable processes. For those who are feeling unmotivated or unaccomplished in their work right now, this book is a must-read.

 “Shtick to Business: What the Masters of Comedy Can Teach You About Breaking Rules, Being Fearless, and Building a Serious Career” by Peter McGraw

What do business and comedy have in common? More than you might expect, posits “Shtick to Business.” Author McGraw draws from both comedy giants and cutting-edge research to reveal universal business lessons. In addition to being educational, this book is also fun — something everyone could use a bit more of right now.

Click Here for 7 More Books

The 2020-2021 Geneva Lake West Chamber of Commerce Community Resource Guide

The 2020-2021 Geneva Lake West Chamber of Commerce Community Resource Guide is available at the chamber today ! Thanks to Greg Gaskins and the chamber team for their help and direction with this publication

VIEW the 2020-2021 Geneva Lake West Community Resource Guide

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

GUEST VIEW: Who is the EMBDC, what's its purpose and why should I be a member?

By Archie McDonnell 

The EMBDC is an acronym for the East Mississippi Business Development Corporation. It is a 501(c)(6) organization that is widely funded by approximately 500 local businesses, the City of Meridian and Lauderdale County.

It houses Meridian’s Chamber of Commerce and its Economic Development efforts. It has in place a five year strategic plan that is primarily focused on assisting existing business and industry and attracting new industry into East Central Mississippi.


It’s approximately 500 businesses pay a membership fee to belong to the EMBDC and provide it a sustained source of private funding along with the public funding provided by the City and County.

In addition, the business community has pledged approximately $1.5 million over 5 years to provide additional support to fund its five year strategic plan. This plan is heavily focused on creating new jobs in East Central Mississippi through a combination of expanding existing industries and attracting new industries into our area.

As we all know, Meridian and Lauderdale County have limited resources and lots of very tangible needs both for our current citizenry and to attract new citizens. It is obvious that these needs will only be met if we increase revenue. The preferred method of increasing revenue is to attract new jobs.

The increased revenue can then be used to better maintain infrastructure and add new infrastructure, services, and benefits that we all desire to have in our community. This is why the number one priority of our community (public and private) should be to increase jobs. Increasing jobs is the number one priority of the EMBDC!

The City of Meridian and Lauderdale County are tasked with managing and running our City and County. The governing council or board of the City and County have limited terms of office. We need a long term vision for, and commitment to, economic development that includes marketing our community.

We need to speak with one unified voice when working with existing industries or prospects unfamiliar with our community. It absolutely makes overwhelmingly more sense to have one economic development organization with one hired professional supported by the appropriate staff managing our economic development strategic plan.

It can better market the best we have to offer those tasked with making major decisions about where they want to locate their facilities, operations, employees and their families (i.e. taxpayers). We should be thinking about this in terms of the City and County being a business and the EMBDC being its marketing entity. We desperately need one unified message that communicates who we are and why people should do business with us.

We need a major project to locate in our community bringing new jobs (individual & corporate taxpayers) to our community. We need to retain and expand our existing business base. Some of the latter don’t always make the headlines.


The reason we haven’t been as successful as we’d like to be is something that we all have to own. It’s because we aren’t on the same page, speaking with one unified voice and properly staffing and funding the EMBDC.

The business model that has had success across the country for economic development is the same business model being employed by the EMBDC. However, we have to do a better job of all subscribing to this same model, funding/investing in the model and utilizing the EMBDC to present our community’s attributes to those looking to relocate their business.

If we do so, we WILL have success. The EMBDC board brought a professional economic development executive to Meridian and Lauderdale County in 2015. The organization has been working diligently to build a foundation for success in our community.

We’ve built bridges with the Mississippi Development Authority, the City and the County as well as our legislative delegations. We recently received $3.5 million from the State of Mississippi to complete the Key Brothers Industrial Park (formerly the I20/59 Industrial Park). Mississippi Power Company added a multimillion dollar substation to the park. We have a prominent industrial site selection team marketing the site. The combination for lasting economic success is to have a process in place to consistently do these kind of things year in and year out.

I’ve been the Chairman of the EMBDC for two years. While we’re doing a lot of the right things, we’re not doing enough. We must direct our limited resources (public and private) to this professional organization and ensure through our input that they continue building the foundation for success. It’s a proven model that will deliver the results we need and want for our community. Every business, large and small, should be a dues paying member of the EMBDC.

Every public and private entity should be supportive and trust the EMBDC to do its job. It’s the only alternative we have given the limited financial resources that we have at our disposal. I should know. Marshalling financial resources is what I have done for a living for a half century.

The resources we’ve committed to the EMBDC are not competitive with those communities we compete with for jobs. Their strategic plans are better funded and their communities invest more in marketing their attributes that are appealing to those wanting to locate there. This is the first time we’ve put in place a five year strategic plan and had a capital fund drive to fund it.

Now, we’re having our first membership drive in at least a decade. If you want success, you have to be willing to make an investment. We need to up our public and private investment, be an EMBDC member and then expect to win. The business model I’ve described, the professionals to carry it out, and the will to win is in place. I ask those of you who are in the public and private sector to step up your investment and expect to WIN!

These are my personal opinions and not the opinion of the EMBDC, my employer or anyone else.

Source: Meridian Star

#BestChamber Practices: Kernersville Chamber: Member of the Month

When 2020 and the pandemic brought so many challenges and struggles to the citizens of Kernersville, it also brought out the best in one particular Kernersville business. We are thankful for people like Rick Wilburn and his daughter Emily and Wilburn Medical Supply, who are not only wonderful people, but they love their community and have shown their support for others through their business. We want to congratulate Wilburn Medical

USA for being selected as the Kernersville Chamber of Commerce’s November 2020 Business of the Month!

Wilburn Medical USA provides medical supplies and equipment to Dr.’s offices, hospitals and other organizations such as universities and was founded January of 1997 by Rick Wilburn. Rick spent most of his career as a rep for other medical sales companies until he realized that he had what it took to create his own company. He landed in our lovely town of Kernersville and opened his business in 2 small offices. From those humble beginnings, Rick has built a company that not only has provided jobs for the current 12 employees but is generous to the community in which it resides. In August of 2019, Wilburn Medical USA moved into a new office and warehouse located at 140 Furlong Industrial Drive here in Kernersville.

Rick is known for his support of our community. He is a board member of Next Step Ministries, has volunteered at their Thrift Store, and has been a generous supporter of NSM fundraisers. When the pandemic hit our community, Wilburn Medical USA provided free masks, hand sanitizer and PPE to so many other organizations and businesses. Rick was interviewed by Fox 8 News to talk about how his company was doing their part to help and support the community. When supplies were in high demand but low in supply, Wilburn Medical USA came through for our community! 

Currently, Rick has promoted his daughter, Emily, to CEO of Wilburn Medical USA is transitioning the business to her leadership. They have developed a very successful online strategy supported by an inside sales team. Wilburn Medical USA has had 23 years of exceeding customer expectations. The team takes pride in running circles around the big guys and then passing on the savings to their valued customers. 

Once you have met Rick, you appreciate his giving heart, and you begin to understand why creating his company was really a means to creating a way to help others. He has a heart of gold. He and Emily both attend Summit Church, and helping others is who they are. Emily left her work with Redeeming Girl Ministries to work alongside her dad and pick up the vision he has had for Wilburn Medical USA. It is people like the Wilburn’s and companies like Wilburn Medical USA that make our community so wonderful! Thank you Rick and Emily for being a part of our community and for caring about others! Thank you Wilburn Medical USA for all that you do!

For more information about Wilburn Medical USA, please call 336-996-6820

SBA Wisconsin: Five Things to Know About PPP Forgiveness 


As the U.S. Small Business Administration continues working with lenders nationwide on the Paycheck Protection Program and processing PPP loan forgiveness, here are five PPP loan forgiveness tips small business owners should know: 
1. PPP loan forgiveness is applied for through a lender, not the SBA. 
Borrowers can download PPP loan forgiveness applications from SBA’s website at sba.gov/paycheckprotection and then submit it with required information to the lender that provided them with a forgivable PPP loan. 
Lenders have up to 60 days to review a PPP loan forgiveness application and the SBA has up to 90 days to review the forgiveness application once received from the lender. 
The SBA remits the amount forgiven to the lender, who must process the forgiveness payment before notifying the PPP borrower of the amount. 
2. Approximately 67% of Wisconsin PPP borrowers are eligible for a simplified PPP loan forgiveness application that can take as little as 15 minutes to complete. 
Earlier in October, the SBA and Treasury released a simpler forgiveness application for PPP loans of $50,000 or less and streamlined the PPP loan forgiveness process for a majority of the borrowers. The simplified application has only seven items for a PPP borrower to verify and significantly reduces the time and paperwork needed. 
3. Businesses still need to document PPP loan money was spent on eligible expenses. 
Since a key part of forgiveness for PPP loans is using the money for eligible expenses, borrowers need to provide documentation, including verification of payroll and non-payroll expenses, with the forgiveness application as required by the CARES Act. 
4. The SBA has already started remittance to lenders. 
The SBA began approving PPP loan forgiveness applications and remitting forgiveness payments to lenders for PPP borrowers Oct. 2, 2020. 
5. Help is available for the forgiveness process and recovery plans. 
The SBA has set up a recovery hub at www.sba.gov/recovery with essential details, resiliency tips and connections to local assistance. SBA’s Resource Partner Network – which includes Wisconsin Small Business Development Centers, SCORE Mentors, Women’s Business Centers and the Veterans Business Outreach Center – also provides one-on-one business advising and technical assistance to small businesses at no- or low-cost. 

In the Great Lakes Region, 777,925 forgivable PPP loans valued at more than $88.1 billion were approved. In Wisconsin, 89,615 forgivable PPP loans valued at approximately $9.9 billion were approved. More information about the PPP is available at www.sba.gov/paycheckprotection.

SBA: State of Michigan Weatherization Grant

The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity is providing federal CARES Act funds to help those small businesses hit hardest by COVID-related closures and capacity restrictions expand their capacity.  Funds may be used for a business to construct temporary structures such as canopies and igloos or purchase portable heaters, and more. Funds are available on a first-come, first-served basis to qualified applicants, with a goal to award a minimum of 10 grants in each of Michigan's prosperity regions.  Learn more here. Northern Kentucky Chamber: Annual Celebration, Presented by Fifth Third Bank Join the Northern Kentucky Chamber Thursday, Nov. 12 from 11:30 a.m.– 1 p.m. when we’ll come together virtually for the 2020 Annual Celebration, Presented by Fifth Third Bank, to honor the accomplishments of community members who are making a lasting impact on our region while also highlighting how the business community has come together during the pandemic. Of course, Board Chair, Dan Cahill, will also share a little about what’s to come as the NKY Chamber looks to the new year.   While the Facebook Live broadcast of the program is free to attend, the virtual networking portion of the event is available to those that register at the $15 or $40 level. As a way to continue the NKY Chamber’s commitment to supporting local businesses impacted by the pandemic, attendees who register at the $40 level will also receive a $25 gift card to a local Northern Kentucky restaurant. Please consider registering at this level to help support our region’s restaurants and ensure their survival during this difficult time.   Click here to register for the Annual Celebration, Presented by Fifth Third Bank

Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Quarterly Magazines 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 Publication Proposal Requested. Thank you!