Prince William Chamber Seeks Local Help in Developing Statewide Economic Development Plan; Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce 2016-2017 Community Guide & Membership Directory; Joliet Chamber Of Commerce Take A Drive To Springfield To Give Legislators A Reality Check; Downtown Appleton Hosts Craft Beer Week; Indy Chamber team revs up DSM transit efforts; Wine Tasting, Mouthwatering Food and More; Taste of Dearborn Returns June 14; Frankfort Area Chamber concern: Plaza effect undetermined; Chamber partners: Top Jackson County students nab more than $70K in scholarships; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.

Happy Monday, #Chamber World! It's going to be a GREAT week!




Prince William Chamber Seeks Local Help in Developing Statewide Economic Development Plan

Manassas, VA- On Tuesday, May 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., the Prince William Chamber of Commerce will offer a unique opportunity for the people and businesses of Northern Virginia to come together and have their say in what should be included in the long-term statewide economic development plan for the Commonwealth of Virginia: Blueprint Virginia. The Blueprint Virginia luncheon is presented in partnership with the Flory Small Business Center and the Virginia, Arlington, Fauquier, Greater Springfield, Mount Vernon-Lee and Northern Virginia Chambers of Commerce. Northern Virginia Community College’s Regional Center for Workforce Education and Training will host (2645 College Drive; Woodbridge, VA 22191).


Dominion Virginia Power is the event sponsor. Dominion’s Director of State & Local Affairs, Deborah Tompkins Johnson says, “Blueprint Virginia is essentially a strategic plan for the Virginia economy. We all benefit from a more diverse, more vibrant economy and Blueprint Virginia will gather input from every corner of the Commonwealth to show us the way.” Dominion and other members of the Virginia Chamber of Commerce were heartily involved in the first Blueprint for Virginia, which was presented to Governor Terry McAuliffe in 2014. This time around, increased input from across the state is sought, with Chambers across the state hosting similar opportunities for their local interests to be represented.


During the luncheon, Virginia Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Barry DuVal will lead the audience in using interactive online tools to contribute to the development of Blueprint Virginia 2025 in real time. Participants will be able to watch as the results change to better reflect their interest as areas like Culpeper, Hampton Roads, Fredericksburg and Danville have already had their say.


Also speaking at the luncheon will be Stephen Moret, the newly appointed President and CEO of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP). Having been highly successful in his previous position leading economic development efforts for the state of Louisiana, Moret will present on What’s Next for the VEDP and Virginia’s Economy and answer questions from the audience as time allows.


Dr. Scott Ralls, President of Northern Virginia Community College stated, “NOVA is not just a college. We are part of an established and growing community. We are thrilled for the opportunity to partner together with our local chambers of commerce and the critical business partners that make this region one of the most robust economies in the nation. The conversations that develop through initiatives such as Blueprint Virginia help us to ensure that we are providing the most highly-skilled workforce to ensure Virginia continues to thrive.”


All are welcome to attend. Registration for the Blueprint Virginia luncheon is $50 per person and registrants can sign up on PWChamber.org. Members of the media may attend at no cost by contacting Andrea Short at ashort@pwchamber.org for passes.




Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce 2016-2017 Community Guide & Membership Directory

The Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce 2016-2017 Community Profile & Membership Directory is available at the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber today! Thanks to Pam Swain, Rosie Vassalo and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

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



Joliet Chamber Of Commerce Take A Drive To Springfield To Give Legislators A Reality Check

The Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce & Industry will travel to Springfield today to meet with Governor Bruce Rauner and the leaders of both the Illinois Senate and House of Representatives.

Fifteen Chamber members will discuss the State budget and how that situation is affecting so many businesses, education institutions, and social service agencies in the Joliet Region. In addition, topics such as transportation, education funding, pensions, workers’ compensation, taxes, minimum wage, gaming, and employment law will all be brought up during the conversations.

The Springfield drive-down day is hosted by the Chamber Legislative committee and sponsored by AT&T and CITGO. Read more: WJOL.com

Downtown Appleton Hosts Craft Beer Week

More than 20 bars and restaurants in Downtown Appleton will team up to host Fox Valley Craft Beer Week May 15-­‐21. The local event is part of the annual American Craft Beer Week celebration.

The event features tastings of various craft beers and brews, venues offering beer dinners or other specials and beer classes or sessions from local brewery reps.
Participating venues are: Appleton Beer Factory; Bad Badger Sports Bar; The Bar on the Avenue; Bazil’s Pub; The Clubhouse inside Radisson Paper Valley Hotel; CU Saloon; D2 Sports Pub; Déjà Vu Martini Lounge; Flanagan’s Stop & Shop Inc.; Fox River House; Fratello’s Waterfront Restaurant; Good Company; Green Gecko Grocer & Deli; Home Burger Bar; Houdini’s Escape Gastropub; Intermezzo; Jim’s Place; Mill Creek; Mr. Brew’s Taphouse; OB’s Brau Haus; Rookie’s Sports Bar; Rye Restaurant; Speakeasy Ultra Lounge; Tandem Wine & Beer; Vince Lombardi’s Steakhouse; Wooden Nickel
More information is available through the ADI website at appletondowntown.org, direct through the host venues or on Facebook. You may also contact Anne Wiegman, Appleton Downtown Inc., by calling (920) 954-­‐9112, or email anne@appletondowntown.org. Source: Fox Cities Chamber

Indy Chamber team revs up DSM transit efforts

Two leaders of Indianapolis' successful efforts to greatly improve its transit system came to town this week to inspire Capital Crossroads' Transit Future Work Group, which is looking to do the same here.

Michael Huber, CEO, and Mark Fisher, chief policy officer, of the Indy Chamber said the improvements didn't have much to do with traffic congestion. They had more to do with a system that made it very difficult to get anywhere easily or quickly, demand from a diverse array of interests, not just low-income residents, and the promise of economic development.

A broad-based task force similar to one that is working in Des Moines guided the Indy efforts, asking for a 3 percent local option sales tax. What they got instead was a 0.25 percent income tax, approved by lawmakers, voters and finally the City-County Council, that is expected to raise $54 million a year to expand transit, Fisher said.

The plan calls for three rapid transit lines, better buses, routes with service every 10 to 15 minutes instead of 30 to 90, and extended hours. The cost: about $100 a year per $40,000 of income. The Indy team wanted to pursue light rail, but were told, as Greater Des Moines has been, that the market was too small to support it. In fact, the legislation in Indiana prohibited light rail and protected the state against further financial obligations for transit. Huber said residents have loved the idea of bus rapid transit instead.

The plan is expected to bring a boom of development along the core routes, tripling the number of people with regular service. It won't happen overnight.

"You have to be in this for the long haul," Fisher said of the years-long effort to pass the plan.

Huber said a local option sales tax would help Des Moines. That is one of the options that have been discussed, but would need state approval. Jay Byers, CEO of the Greater Des Moines Partnership, said three finalists are expected to visit Des Moines before a firm is picked to complete a study of financing options for an expansion of transit and mobility in Greater Des Moines. The study should be done by September, when the next steps will be discussed. Another panel is working on a new governance structure for the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority, or DART, which is expected to expand suburban representation. Read more: Business Record

Wine Tasting, Mouthwatering Food and More; Taste of Dearborn Returns June 14

DEARBORN, MI- A Metro Detroit favorite, Taste of Dearborn, returns Wednesday, June 14, 2017, from 6-10:00 pm. Attendees experience the delightful offerings of Dearborn eateries at this annual event, presented by Jim Thorpe, Ameriprise Financial, and hosted by the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce.

Dearborn’s annual “Grub-crawl” allows attendees to sample menu items from the bevvy of participating restaurants.  Early bird general admission tickets are available for $25 until June 9, and include appetizers from 20+ participating restaurants in West Downtown Dearborn and the Fairlane Town Center complex. After June 9, tickets are $30.

Les Stanford Cadillac once again serves as the venue for the elegant Wine Tasting Reception. Attendees enjoy appetizers & samples provided by LaPita Mediterranean Cuisine and live jazz entertainment from the Dearborn Saxophone Quartet, 5:30-8:00 pm. A limited number of tickets are available for this exclusive reception for only $40! Pre-registration is required to attend the reception.  General admission and wine tasting tickets are available at www.dearbornareachamber.org or by calling 313-584-6100.

The Chamber provide free shuttles, courtesy of LaFontaine Automotive Group, between downtown West Dearborn and the Fairlane Town Center complex until 9:45 pm. Participants receive a menu and map at registration beginning at 5:30 p.m. in the Bryant Library at 22100 Michigan Ave.

A small sample of confirmed restaurants include Andiamo-Dearborn, Zaza’s Italian & Mediterranean Cuisine, Bailey’s Pub & Grille, Bangkok 96 Thai Restaurant,

Lazeez Burgers & More, bd’s Mongolian Grill, Brome Burger, Guilio & Sons, Buddy’s Pizza, Buffalo Wild Wings, Detroit Pizza Factory, Frida’s Mexican Cuisine, PF Chang’s, Big Fish, Famous Hamburger, La Fork (Putin & Crepes), Lue Thai Café, Matador Mexican Restaurant and Yogurtopia. Additional restaurants are joining daily!

For More Information, Contact: Zach Hayward, Director of Events & Media Relations, Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce, Tel: 313-584-6100, E-mail: zhayward@dearbornareachamber.org






Frankfort Area Chamber concern: Plaza effect undetermined

As the clock ticks toward demolition of Capital Plaza Tower, Fountain Place shops and the Frankfort Convention Center as early as Nov. 1, many questions remain throughout the county and city on the fiscal impact once the dust settles.

Developers have a little more than two weeks to inform state officials that they are interested in receiving the state’s request for a proposal in order to bid on the redevelopment project, which will be the most significant facelift for downtown Frankfort in the last 40 years.

According to the Finance and Administration Cabinet’s timeline, a developer will be selected and awarded the contract by Aug. 29, and the project will be executed in phases. Phase one, according to Pamela Trautner, spokeswoman for the cabinet, will be the build-to-suit project, which includes razing the Capital Plaza Tower, Fountain Place, convention center, overpasses and parking garages.

Improvements will be made to the facades of Capital Plaza Hotel where the overpasses existed, and hotel parking will be diverted to the 300-plus parking garage also used by the YMCA. The awarded developer will ultimately return the area under the convention center to green space that will be shovel-ready for a potential public-private-partnership project.

The proposed specifications drafted by the Department of Facilities include construction of a five-story office building, allowing 257 square feet for each of 1,500 state employees expected to work in the building. The tower once housed about 750 workers.

Where those state employees will come from and from which state agencies hasn’t been determined, Trautner said.

Franklin County Judge-Executive Huston Wells told The State Journal he is concerned about the impact it could have on property owners in the county who have leased buildings to the state for office space.

“What is going to happen to these people that have made this commitment with the state counting on this for a number of years and now it’s going to pulled out from under them,” Wells said. “Then the property taxes they pay. It goes down as the value goes down because they can’t rent it. It’s another part of this.”

Finance and Administration Cabinet Sec. William Landrum told Kentucky Today website that the 1,500 employees relocating to downtown Frankfort would “create payroll growth to the city of approximately $7.8 million.” Read more: State Journal

Chamber partners: Top Jackson County students nab more than $70K in scholarships

Jackson County’s top high school seniors were awarded more than $70,000 in scholarships May 2 at the 27th annual Explosion of Excellence Scholarship Program.

The program is designed to encourage top high school students to stay in Jackson County after their college education is complete.

The entire top 10 percent of graduating seniors in the county, 168 students, received a $250 book scholarship. There was also random drawings for $1,000 and $5,000 scholarship checks totaling $25,000.

Trevor Perry of Pascagoula High School also received a $5,000 scholarship from the McDonald’s Descher Organization.

“This is such an important program — showcasing the support of the community encouraging our youth to further their education,” said Yvette Barr, director of membership communications for the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and former scholarship recipient herself. “We hope that one day they will work here and continue to grow Jackson County and the Gulf Coast.”

The Explosion of Excellence program is jointly sponsored by the Jackson County chamber, the Ocean Springs Chamber of Commerce Main Street Tourism Bureau and Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College.

More than 100 contributors and volunteers make the program possible, the Jackson County Chamber said in a news release.

Scholarship donations come from area businesses and residents. Anyone can donate to students by mailing a tax-exempt contribution by check to the Gulf Coast Community Foundation/Explosion of Excellence it to Explosion of Excellence, P.O. Box 480, Pascagoula MS 39568-0480.

Contributors are recognized on the scholarships, in the event program and on the Jackson County Chamber website. Sun Herald

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

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

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

La Porte Chamber Awarded 5 Stars from U.S. Chamber of Commerce; Chamber partnership: Planning group for Hopewell/Prince George area focuses on drawing tourists; Chamber event: Swedish Days fills Geneva (Illinois) with music, entertainment; 200,000 expected to attend; North Little Rock Chamber partnership: Arkansas Women's Hall of Fame Announces Inaugural Inductees, including Hilary Rodham Clinton; Lieutenant governor candidates to speak in Paducah Chamber forum; Ford Motor Company Executive Vice President John Fleming to Speak at Upcoming Chamber Luncheon; Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce Survey shows worker shortage getting worse, holding back economy; Jackson Chamber sponsor: Air Force band to perform at Mississippi Museum of Art; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation: (Leadership)

Good morning Chamber world! Today is going to be a GREAT day!

La Porte Chamber Awarded 5 Stars from U.S. Chamber of Commerce

Good news! The Greater La Porte Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that after a comprehensive self-review, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has awarded us with 5-Star Accreditation. "This prestigious honor puts us among the top 1% of chambers nationwide," stated Michael B. Seitz, IOM President of the Chamber. This rating demonstrates the high commitment from our board of directors and staff to provide excellence in our program of work and services to our members.
Highlights included:
-The chamber continued to do an excellent job of recognizing its volunteers for their efforts on behalf of the chamber.
-The chamber has created a comprehensive Personnel and Administrative Policy Manual. It was also recognized for its practice of providing additional funds to staff through HSA contributions.
-The chamber achieved a perfect score in the Communications and Facilities sections.
This past year, the staff and the board of Greater La Porte Chamber of Commerce spent countless hours completing the Accreditation process. Our task: demonstrate competency in 9 core areas ranging from finance to facilities. The result of our hard-work is evidenced by this impressive rating. "We should all be extraordinarily proud of this milestone achievement. It was a true team effort, but special recognition should go to Vice President Rita Mrozinski for her countless hours and contributions she made to the accreditation process that led us to achieve the 5 star rating," said Seitz. Read more: La Porte County Life

Chamber partnership: Planning group for Hopewell/Prince George area focuses on drawing tourists

Members of a tourism planning group for the Hopewell/Prince George area are unanimous on the need for a river-front development that would be a draw for tourists. The decision came after taking a series of three tourism development workshops facilitated by the Hopewell/Prince George Chamber and the Virginia Tourism Corporation.
“These DRIVE Tourism workshops helped us to focus on the assets we have and those we need to develop to succeed in a competitive travel and tourism market,” said Becky McDonough, CEO of the Hopewell/Prince George Chamber.
McDonough referenced Virginia Gov. Terry McAuliffe’s recent announcement that Virginia’s tourism revenues reached $22.4 billion in 2014 – a 4.1 percent increase over 2013. Tourism supported 216,000 jobs and $1.5 billion in state and local revenue last year. Local statistics for 2014 are not yet available.
The Hopewell/Prince George community, which held its third workshop on June 11, is the ninth locality to complete the DRIVE Tourism workshops in 2015. More than 50 individuals from local groups in Hopewell/Prince George and the surrounding region completed homework and attended the three-session workshops. The individuals represented local government administration, economic development and recreation and parks; local historical societies; entertainment, real estate and hospitality sectors; the Hopewell Downtown Partnership; Appomattox Regional Library System; Petersburg Area Regional Tourism (PART); Friends of the Lower Appomattox River (FOLAR); VSU students; elected officials; as well as area residents and students. Read more: Progress-Index

Chamber event: Swedish Days fills Geneva (Illinois) with music, entertainment; 200,000 expected to attend

Swedish Days, one of the biggest festivals in the Fox Valley, will return for its 66th year featuring its usual lineup of crafting events, historical tours and live music.

The six-day festival opens Tuesday, June 23 and runs through Sunday, June 28.

One of the main events taking place earlier in the week is the Geneva's Got Talent Semi-Finals, set for 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 24. Twenty contestants will take their turn onstage in the hopes of advancing to the finals and winning a $1,000 cash prize.

Talents will span a variety of genres and styles, including vocalists, musicians, pianists, dancers and bands.

The competition is presented in partnership between the Geneva Park District and the Geneva Chamber of Commerce. The partnership came in hopes to revitalize a fading battle of the bands competition and merge it with the chamber's existing talent competition. Read more: Daily Herald

North Little Rock Chamber partnership: Arkansas Women's Hall of Fame Announces Inaugural Inductees, including Hilary Rodham Clinton

The Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame on Monday announced its inaugural 11 inductees, including four historic figures and one organization.
The nonprofit organization, born out of a partnership between the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce and Arkansas Business Publishing Group of Little Rock, will honor the group during a ceremony Aug. 27 at the Statehouse Convention Center in Little Rock.
The first class of contemporary inductees are:

• Mary Ann Ritter Arnold, the first woman mayor of Marked Tree and the former president of agribusiness and communications firm E. Ritter & Co.
• Betty Bumpers, former Arkansas first lady who led a statewide immunization program for childhood vaccinations.
• Hillary Rodham Clinton, former Arkansas first lady, first lady of the U.S., U.S. senator from New York, and U.S. Secretary of State.
• Dr. Mary Good, founding dean of the College of Engineering and Information Technology at the University of Arkansas Little Rock, and former under secretary for technology for the Technology Administration in the U.S. Department of Commerce.
• Johnelle Hunt, co-founder of publicly traded J.B. Hunt Transport Services Inc. of Lowell, one of the largest transportation and logistics providers.
• Dr. Edith Irby Jones, medical doctor, educator, philanthropist who was the first African American to attend and graduate from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences.
• Alice Walton, founder and board chairman of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville.

Historic inductees are:

• Daisy Bates, civil rights activist, writer and publisher who played a leading role in the desegregation of Central High School in Little Rock.
• Hattie Caraway, the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate.
• Hester Davis, a leader in the development of cultural resources management legislation and programs who blazed a trail for women in archeology.
• Roberta Fulbright, a prominent Fayetteville business leader and former publisher of the Northwest Arkansas Times who championed the University of Arkansas, fought corruption and advocated for women’s equality.

The AWHOF also chose to honor one organization, the Women’s Emergency Committee to Open Our Schools (WEC), a Civil Rights-era committee formed in Little Rock in response to Gov. Orval Faubus’ efforts to close the city’s four public high schools.
A selection committee chose the women from 73 nominees based on their contributions to the state and their respective fields. Nan Snow, president of the AWHOF board, announced the class during a news conference on the steps of the state Capitol. Read more: Arkansas Business

Lieutenant governor candidates to speak in Paducah Chamber forum

Both candidates for Kentucky lieutenant governor will participate in a candidate forum in Paducah on Oct. 1, the Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce announced Tuesday.
The chamber said it will move its monthly breakfast to a luncheon for the forum. The Power in Partnership luncheon will be held in the Julian Carroll Convention Center, with a buffet beginning at 11:30 a.m. and the Chamber program beginning around noon.
“We are thrilled to be able to host this event so voters in western Kentucky will have the opportunity to meet these two candidates,” Paducah Chamber President Sandra Wilson said in Tuesday's announcement. “Our local citizens are eager to hear their thoughts on issues important to our community and the state.”
Republican nominee Jenean Hampton and Democratic nominee State Rep. Sannie Overly will each make opening comments before a question and answer session with a local media panel, and concluding remarks by each candidate. Read more: WPSDlocal6.com


Ford Motor Company Executive Vice President John Fleming to Speak at Upcoming Chamber Luncheon

John Fleming, Executive Vice President of Global Manufacturing and Labor Affairs at Ford Motor Company will be joining the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce as the guest speaker at the Chamber’s upcoming Business Builder Series. The luncheon will take place on Wednesday, July 15, beginning at 11:00 am at The Henry, An Autograph Collection Hotel, located at 300 Town Center Drive, in Dearborn. Fleming is the third speaker for the Chamber’s 2015 Business Builder Series, a Chamber program designed to help local businesses and community leaders grow and enhance their organizational goals. Speakers this year have included the mayors of Dearborn and Dearborn Heights, and a prestigious panel of area executives joining in a U.S. Chamber sponsored discussion of women in business leadership. Michigan Lieutenant Governor Brian Calley is scheduled to wrap up the 2015 series at the 4^th Quarter event in October. For More Information, Contact: Ron Hinrichs, Director of Events & Media Relations Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce -Tel: 313-584-6100E-mail: rhinrichs@dearbornareachamber.org

Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce Survey shows worker shortage getting worse, holding back economy

The shortage of qualified and/or willing workers is getting worse and is holding back Wisconsin's economy, according to a semi-annual survey conducted by Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce, the state chamber of commerce. The survey of 306 top business executives also shows concern about rising health care costs on the eve of full implementation of the federal Affordable Care Act.

Seventy percent of survey respondents reported having trouble hiring employees, up from 64 percent in January and 53 percent a year ago. A lack of qualified applicants was the top reason given at 52 percent. Thirty-two percent say they are having trouble finding employees for all levels and fields.
Labor shortage was the No. 1 concern of business leaders when asked two separate questions on what is the top public policy issue facing Wisconsin (26 percent) and what is the top concern facing your company (27 percent). Health care affordability was second for both questions, but it was the top response when executives were asked to identify "what one thing state government could do to help your business." Twenty-eight percent said "make health care costs more affordable," 25 percent said "reduce/reform regulations" and 21 percent said "reduce taxes." Read more: BizTimes.com

Jackson Chamber sponsor: Air Force band to perform at Mississippi Museum of Art

The City of Jackson, along with numerous other sponsors, will host the Independence Day Weekend First of July Celebration featuring the United States Air Force West Concert Band Performance at 6 p.m. July 1 at the Mississippi Museum of Art's Art Garden.
Also performing will be Cade Chapel Voices of Love. The event will be free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own blankets and chairs. Food and refreshments will be available for purchase via food trucks. The rain location will be Thalia Mara Hall Performance Center.
Formed in 1941, The United States Air Force Band is the Air Force's premier musical organization. Each member is proud to represent all Airmen, whose selfless service and sacrifices ensure the freedoms we enjoy as citizens of the United States of America.
"The Jackson CVB is excited about the opportunity to partner with other agencies to produce this exciting event in Jackson," said Rickey Thigpen, executive vice president for the Jackson Convention and Visitor's Bureau. "This activity and others like it strengthens the quality of life for our citizens and enhances Jackson as a true visitor destination."
Sponsors of the event include the city of Jackson, the Jackson Convention and Visitor's Bureau, the Mississippi Museum of Art, Visit Mississippi, the Greater Jackson Arts Council, the Jackson Chamber of Commerce, the Mississippi National Guard, and Downtown Partners. Read more: Hattiesburg American

 
Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation: (Leadership) -

The most dangerous leadership myth is that leaders are born - that there is a genetic factor to leadership. That’s nonsense; in fact, the opposite is true. Leaders are made rather than born. —Warren Bennis

U.S. Chamber - Chase is giving a total of $2 Million in grants to 20 small businesses; Apply today! - From Sue Reed, president of the Crossroads (Indiana) Regional Chamber of Commerce; Rochester Regional Chamber program: Rochester Youth Leadership Retreat Applications due by June 5th; Arkansas Chamber proponent: For project, governor seeking $87.1M bond; Governor Announces Hopkins County as Kentucky Work Ready Community; Greater Augusta Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation Awards (20) $1,000.00 Scholarships at Academic Achievers Reception; Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership and Ridgeland Chambers offer basics of Social Security; Sparta Chamber support: Bicycle statues link Port Byron, Wisconsin for fall ride; Highland Chamber (Illinois) of Commerce hires new executive director; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation: (Leadership)

Good morning Chamber world! Today is going to be a GREAT day!



U.S. Chamber: Chase is giving a total of $2 Million in grants to 20 small businesses--- deadline is June 5th, 2015



Small businesses are the backbone of the American economy and again this year, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce is excited to support Mission Main Street Grants®. Chase is awarding 20 grants of $100,000 to small businesses across America and we are looking for businesses that have big plans.
To apply, complete the grant application and receive at least 250 votes from your fans, customers, family and/or friends. In addition, you will have access to a special offer from the Premier Sponsor, LinkedIn, and powerful business tools. The application deadline is June 5, 2015 so visit www.MissionMainStreetGrants.com today.
A for-profit business that has been engaged in the current business activity for at least two consecutive years and has less than 100 year-round, full-time employees is eligible to apply. Businesses must receive at least 250 votes to be eligible for a grant. Please visit the Program Rules for all eligibility requirements.
The application process consists of three parts:

1. Complete your Small Business Registration
2. Complete your Business Profile
3. Fill out and submit the grant questionnaire

A panel of small business experts will select the 20 grant recipients from eligible businesses, and results will be announced in mid-September 2015.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is proud to support Mission Main Street Grants® and to help fuel the growth of small businesses nationwide. To read more about Mission Main Street Grants® and learn how you can participate, click here.

Source: U.S. Chamber 



From Sue Reed, president of the Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce - educator's request for Indiana competition winner funding

Greetings!

Please see the following request I received today. Any assistance you can provide will be greatly appreciated!

Good morning!  I am reaching out to you in hopes of gaining support for one of our students.

At the beginning of this year, Merrillville High School became a pilot school for the MITA (Microsoft Information Technology Academy) and started offering MOS (Microsoft Office Specialist) industry certifications to our students to prepare them for a good job after graduation.  The program has been a great success and will enable students to pursue their passion in technology with or without having to attend college.  We have many students certified in Word, Excel and Powerpoint at this point and have a particularly exceptional student who is the focal point of this correspondence.

Zachary Feign, a junior here at MHS, will probably not be able to attend college but his software skills are exceptional.  Not only is he MOS certified in BOTH Powerpoint AND Excel but he is the #1 top scorer in the state of Indiana for Powerpoint 2010 Certification – a perfect 1000 score in only about 12 minutes (50 minutes are allotted for the certification test).  He has taken the certification test twice, scoring perfect 1000s in only a fraction of the time testing allows.  He now represents the State of Indiana in the National Competition.  He will receive a couple of prizes or being the best in the state but the most important is his invitation to the National MOS Competition in Florida in mid-June. 

Zach’s family does not have the resources for him and a parent to go on this trip so I (with permission of my administration) have set up a GoFundMe account with the intent to raise $1500 for the trip.  This includes air fare, discounted hotel rates and meals they will have to buy on their own.  Zach has talked to me about passing this opportunity on to the 2^nd place finisher because of his family’s lack of money to go on this trip and this really saddened me.  I have talked with his parents and want to do everything possible to make sure he can go.   If you are able, could you please consider contributing to this account so we can send Zach on the trip of his lifetime?  Or maybe forward this to others who may be able to help out?

http://www.gofundme.com/varemk

As always, I thank you for supporting Merrillville High School and the programs we have to promote our students’ success.  And please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns. 

Sharon Row
PCI / ICE Internship Coordinator
Business & Technology, CTE & Dual Credit teacher
IPE Executive Director
Merrillville High School
276 E. 68^th Place, Merrillville, IN  46410
Phone:  219-650-5307 ext. 7175
website


Rochester Regional Chamber program: Rochester Youth Leadership Retreat Applications due by June 5th

The Mission of the Rochester Youth Leadership Program is to create an experience for youth that fosters leadership, community involvement and civic responsibility in the Greater Rochester Community.

The Vision is to be recognized as the premiere community-centered youth leadership program with a focus on:

• Community awareness with a servant's heart
• Leadership for today and tomorrow
• Proven measurable results

No more than sixteen students will be selected to participate in the program. PROGRAM DATES FOR 2015 will be Monday and Tuesday June 29th and 30th. Click here to view or download 2015 Leadership Youth Retreat Application.

• Food will be provided to the attendees, including an award dinner.
• An informational meeting will take place prior to the event.
• Students will receive a scholarship to attend. A $50 deposit is required with application, but returned upon completion of the retreat.

Genisys Credit Union will select two Junior Grand Marshals (male and female) to be in the Rochester Hometown Christmas Parade on Sunday, December 6, 2015 from among the Rochester Youth Leadership Retreat attendees. 
The role of the Junior Grand Marshal is to be an ambassador for the youth and the Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce and Community. A special committee will interview students attending the Rochester Youth Leadership Retreat and make the selection. The winners will be announced during dinner at the Leadership Youth Retreat's conclusion. Each winner will receive a $1,000.00 scholarship.

Contact the chamber office at 248-651-6700 or email info@rrc-mi.com for more information

 

Arkansas Chamber proponent: For project, governor seeking $87.1M bond

Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson said Thursday that he is seeking the Arkansas Legislature's approval next week for an $87.1 million bond issue to help Lockheed Martin compete for a federal defense contract in Camden.
At a state Capitol news conference, he also explained his decision to ask lawmakers to move the state's primary elections from May to March, saying the earlier date would give Arkansans a greater voice in picking presidential candidates.
The governor said the proposed bond issue would be the state's only commitment to Lockheed Martin and there are no additional financial incentives to assist the Maryland-based corporation.
The company would build the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle for the Army and Marine Corps and replace the line of vehicles known as Humvees made by Indiana-based AM General LLC. Read more: Arkansas Online

Madisonville-Hopkins County chamber news: Governor Announces Hopkins County as Kentucky Work Ready Community

Gov. Steve Beshear has announced that Hopkins County is certified as a Kentucky Work Ready Community.
In August 2012, county leaders sought local support to meet the requirements to develop a skilled workforce for the 21st century.
The governor also named Boyd, Carroll, Greenup, Knott and Lawrence counties as Kentucky Work Ready Communities on May 14. In order to achieve the status, community leaders must establish common goals in business, education, workforce and economic development.
County and city officials made the announcement this morning during a press conference held at the Government Center.
Madisonville Community College President Judy Rhoads said the county received its work ready status sooner than the allotted three-year progress period.
“I want to thank the team that’s at the table for making this possible, and many people in the public schools and the college and other community members who worked hard for us to meet the criteria,” Rhoads said.
Madisonville Mayor David Jackson said the achievement was a collaborative effort of many, and the status will have a great impact for the future job market in the area. He noted the recognition assures potential employers that the county workforce is qualified and ready.
“The impact of Work Ready Community on our town and our county is so important,” he said. “When a potential employer is considering a location, not only do they look at your infrastructure or your available buildings, but workforce is a very important part of that decision.”
Kentucky is one of the most rigorous states to achieve work ready status, said Judge- Executive Donnie Carroll.
“Work Ready has the ability to transform the community,” he said. “I believe this is just the first step.”
Lee Lingo, president of the Madisonville-Hopkins County Chamber of Commerce, believes the county achieved work ready status early on because of the area’s strong educational opportunities.
“Our community and technical college system here is top notch,” he said. “It’s recognized throughout the state and that has enabled us to already benchmark very highly for how we train our workforce.” Read more: Surfky.com NEWS

Greater Augusta Regional Chamber of Commerce Foundation Awards (20) $1,000.00 Scholarships at Academic Achievers Reception

Fishersville, VA – The Greater Augusta Regional Chamber of Commerce (GARCC) recently recognized 34 outstanding students from public, private and vocational schools in Waynesboro, Staunton and Augusta County at their annual Academic Achievers Reception held at the Plecker Workforce Center on the campus of Blue Ridge Community College.  New to their program this year and with the support of local manufacturers, the Chamber awarded scholarships for students pursuing technical, trade and vocational training. Linda Hershey, President & CEO, said “Our Chamber recognizes the increased demand for industry specific job skills and encourages opportunities for students to pursue standard certification trades.”  She also quoted statistics from the Valley Career & Technical Center that said, “By 2018, nearly two-thirds of the 47 million job openings will require workers to have at least some post-secondary education. Nearly all will require real world skills that can be mastered through Career and Technical Education courses.”

Over 150 Parents/Guardians, Teachers, Counselors, Superintendents, Legislative Officials and the Education Selection Committee attended the Reception.  The Presenting Sponsor was City National Bank.  Additional Supporting Sponsors included: Simple Elegance Catering, Mary Baldwin College and Lowe’s Home Improvement of Waynesboro.

The Thirty Four (34) students are ranked in the top 5% at their schools,  participating in multiple programs and serving as leaders in activities such as National Honor Society , Shenandoah Valley Governor’s School, Foreign Language Club, Drama, Chorus, Mentorship, Work Study, Job Sharing, Academic Team, Student Government,  Debate and/or Forensics, Key Club,  Tutoring, Model General Assembly, School Newspaper /Yearbook,  4-H & FFA,  Marching band, Basketball, Baseball/Softball, Soccer, Football, Track & Field, Cross Country, Volleyball, Wrestling and Swimming.

The highlight of the evening was the honoring of twenty (20) of these students with $1,000.00 Scholarships. These Scholarships were sponsored by area Chamber members and friends of the Chamber as noted below. Dr. Kevin Ratliff, Dean of Business, Humanities & Continuing Education at Blue Ridge Community College and Board Chair of the Chamber’s Education Committee, said, “ with all of the accomplishments listed above, the Education Selection Committee had a very hard task of selecting the chosen 20 students.” For more information, or details on how you can support this program or get involved in other Chamber events, please contact Melissa Martin, Director of Community Development, at 540-324-1133 or online at comdevelop@augustava.com. 

Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership and Ridgeland Chambers offer basics of Social Security

Two metro-area chambers of commerce are partnering on a workshop to teach their members “The ABC’s of Social Security.”
The Lunch & Learn session will be 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Cool Water Catering in Ridgeland with lunch provided.
The workshop is being jointly offered by the Greater Jackson Chamber Partnership and the Ridgeland Chamber of Commerce. Read more: The Clarion and Ledger

Sparta Chamber support: Bicycle statues link Port Byron, Wisconsin for fall ride

City officials and their counterparts in Sparta, Wis., are hoping a new bicycle tour connecting the two cities becomes an annual event.
On Friday, the "Will to Ben" tour planned Oct. 3-9 was announced by Port Byron Mayor Kevin Klute and Tim Hyma, executive director of the Sparta Area Chamber of Commerce. 
The area around Port Byron already has a great deal of recreational options, Mayor Klute said. "It (the ride) really fits in well with what Port Byron is trying to promote," he said.
The tour takes its name from two giant fiberglass cyclist statues -- one in each city -- that depict vintage-looking fellows riding penny farthing bicycles. The Port Byron statue is named "Will B. Rolling;" its Sparta counterpart is named "Ben Bikin." Read more: QCOnline.com Dispatch-Argus

Highland Chamber (Illinois) of Commerce hires new executive director

Nancie Zobrist has worn many hats over the years.
A 2003 graduate of Highland High School, Zobrist had earlier worked in an array of industries spanning from green geothermal energy to hotel/hospitality to physical therapy. Last week, she was hired as the new executive director of the Highland Chamber of Commerce. Zobrist will be replacing Jami Jansen, who recently announced her resignation effective June 5 after serving 10 years in the post.
Zobrist, who has a bachelor of science in advertising from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, has worked in the marketing departments at Entertek Manufacturing in Greenville, Pere Marquette Lodge in Grafton and Collinsville Physical Therapy.
She believes her prior marketing experience will be an asset to the Chamber.
“I’m excited to be able to use my education and experience to help our community businesses grow, as well as managing the many philanthropic endeavors of the Chamber. I believe keeping businesses strong keeps our community strong,”she said.
Nancie is married to Eric Zobrist, and they have a 2-year-old daughter. Read more: Highland News Leader



Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation: (Leadership)

A goal properly set is halfway reached.  -Zig Ziglar

 

Read more here: http://www.bnd.com/news/local/community/highland-news-leader/article21469119.html#storylink=cpy