Showing posts with label Greater Owensboro Chamber. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Greater Owensboro Chamber. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 6, 2021

Job Openings in #ChamberWorld Illinois - Orland Park Area Chamber of Commerce, Executive Director - Heritage Corridor Business Alliance, Executive Director – (Lemont-Homer Glen) - Director – Illinois Valley Area Chamber of Commerce; BACC President's Message: Small Business May Be Eligible for More Tax Credits; Greater Starkville Development Partnership: Organic Facebook Marketing; Greater Owensboro Chamber: Rooster Booster to Feature Susan Elkington, President of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky; #BestChamber practices: Barbi Jones, Cabbarus County Chamber: Get your High school juniors and seniors on-board with FASFA; Drive-Thru Job Fair Planned for Oshkosh Area; WMC: Wisconsin Made. The Podcast. Episode #2 Now Streaming; Kosciusko County Chamber: VIRTUAL THIRD HOUSE REVIEW SESSION; #BestChamber Practices: (via the CARY GROVE Chamber) Newsletter links; Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Announces Support for Holt Bond Issue on May 4 Ballot; Grand Rapids Area Chamber: Creative Chambers program; oin the Arlington Chamber of Commerce for a Women in Business Networking event; 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!

BACC President's Message: Small Business May Be Eligible for More Tax Credits

 This week on Thursday, April 8, join us for an “Ask An Expert” session and find out if you might be eligible for thousands of dollars in tax credits.

 Brent Motl, of Motl Accounting, will discuss the Employee Retentions Tax Credit (ERTC), which can provide up to $5,000 per employee in 2020 and up to $14,000 per employee in 2021. It's one of the latest COVID-19 tax credits created as part of the newly-amended CARES ACT.

 The Zoom seminar, “Tax Credit Relief for Small Business,” will be held on April 8 at 2:00 p.m. and is free to BACC members. To register: CLICK HERE.

 We started our “Ask An Expert” series during the pandemic to provide you with free programming designed to help you weather the challenges, stay informed, and access resources. Topics have included cyber security, the benefits of laughter, and how to handle the room when you’re on zoom. If you are looking for specific topics this year, send your suggestions by emailing me at: Suzanne@barringtonchamber.com.


Greater Starkville Development Partnership: Organic Facebook Marketing

You don't want to miss this exclusive membership webinar hosted by Kathy Jacobs from Kathy Jacobs Design and Marketing this Thursday, April 8th at noon. Learn how to promote your business with organic Facebook marketing. Please email Hunter Harrington at hharrington@starkville.org to reserve your spot today!


Three Job Openings in #ChamberWorld Illinois - 

Orland Park Area Chamber of Commerce, Executive Director 

OPACC VISION AND MISSION STATEMENT:

The Orland Park Area Chamber of Commerce the premier business organization in the Orland Park area committed to helping businesses and the community grow and prosper.

POSITION:

Executive Director

Job Summary:

Ideally, the Executive Director of the OPACC will have a unique combination of personal and professional qualifications.

This includes, but not limited to:

 Familiarity with the unique challenges of running a nonprofit; someone who understands the dynamics of a chamber of commerce or similar membership-based organization and who is genuinely interested in working effectively in that realm.

 Executive style that can generate respect and support from a wide range of constituents including large and small businesses, nonprofits, community groups, elected leaders, and staff at the local, regional, and state level.

 Demonstrated interest in the community and businesses of Orland Park and the surrounding Villages.

 Ability to lead the development and implementation of the long-term action plans of the OPACC

 Motivational leader who can attract, retain, develop, and empower staff and volunteers.

 A great listener who can articulate the OPACC mission and vision to retain and attract new members.

 Excellent verbal and written communication skills and presentation ability; comfortable with new and traditional media.

 Time management skills with a proven ability to prioritize responsibilities.

 Reliable, self-motivated, outgoing

 Strong networking and leadership skills and the ability to function well as part of a team

 Presents a professional image whenever representing OPACC

 

Essential Qualifications:

 College Degree preferred and five years+ work experience in a related field

 Reliable attendance with non-traditional hours, as needed (early morning, after hours, weekends)

 Able to work in a PC networked environment that uses Microsoft Office products: Word, Excel, and Outlook. Also experience with design programs – Canva and Publisher

 Experience with Quickbooks

 Previous experience with Chambermaster or similar CRM, is preferred

 Valid driver’s license required

Please send resumes to the Orland Park Area Chamber of Commerce, 8799 151st Street, Orland Park, IL 60462 or email to info@orlandparkchamber.org



Heritage Corridor Business Alliance, Executive Director – (Lemont-Homer Glen)

 

HCBA VISION AND MISSION STATEMENT:

Vision Statement:

The activities and programs of the Heritage Corridor Business Alliance are envisioned, created and implemented around a single, simple and direct vision: Impacting change for a prosperous community through collaboration, innovation, and business leadership to our Heritage Corridor Regional Community.

Mission Statement:

We are dedicated to serving our regional business community by providing value added resources through a member centric approach.

POSITION: Executive Director

REPORTS TO: Heritage Corridor Business Alliance Board of Directors

General Summary: Responsible for assisting in the development of policy, implementing policy, and recommending action to the Board of Directors for the continued success of the Heritage Corridor Business Alliance (HCBA). The Executive Director is responsible for overseeing the coordination of the existing operations of the organization. This role will develop, promote, and plan events and functions and will communicate effectively with the HCBA membership on needs, ideas, and opportunities. He/She will develop and implement an annual budget and organizational plan that advances the general welfare and prosperity of the Homer Glen and Lemont HCBA membership. The Executive Director is enthusiastic, creative, and well organized, and is an excellent communicator capable of functioning well in an independent environment.

FUNCTIONS:

Duties to the Board of Directors:

1. Work with the Board of Directors to develop the long term strategic plan of HCBA and to define annual business plan for the upcoming year.

2. Responsible for the growth, development and retention of HCBA membership

3. Coordinate all chamber activities including board meetings, general membership meetings, special chamber projects and events and chamber committee projects.

4. With the Board of Directors, develops committees as needed to enhance the functions of the HCBA.

5. Provide regular activity, financial and membership reports.

6. Participate in fundraising including event development and execution and grant writing.

7. Assists the Board in the formulation of policies, by-laws, rules and regulations in connection with the operation of the business alliance.

 8. Other duties or special projects as directed by the president or by the board of directors through the president.

 

Duties to the Members:

1. Is responsible for the physical Chamber headquarters and making sure the surroundings are inviting and user friendly for all HCBA members.

2. Serves as a focal point for communications for and about the HCBA’s functions, responding to inquiries from members and the community at large.

3. Ensure retention of members and collection of membership dues.

4. Approves membership applications and keeps accurate records of membership, events and activities and develops reports as needed.

5. Addresses the business needs of HCBA members.

6. Serves as an advocate for the HCBA members in the Homer Glen and Lemont business community

 

Business Operations:

1. Executes and carries out all stated policies and objectives and all by-laws, rules and regulations, determined by the Board: abides by the requirements of all applicable laws.

2. Keeps an accurate accounting of income and expenses. Projects cash flow. Assist committees with their budgets. Assures an accurate account is kept of all revenues and expenditures.

3. Ensures payroll tax forms are filed and tax deposits are made and corporate tax forms are submitted in a timely basis.

4. Ensures that monies are collected and deposited in a timely fashion.

5. Balances all accounts.

6. Responsible for interviewing, hiring and training employees; planning assigning and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

 

Community Relations:

1. Responsible for an active, positive presence in the community.

2. Represents the HCBA at appropriate public meetings and through coordination of the Board of Directors and Village offices and serves as an advocate for the economic wellbeing of the HCBA membership and the community.

3. Engages community business leaders and elected officials on behalf of HCBA issues.

4. Oversees and manages HCBA functions and events.

5. Remains informed of current public issues and ensure HCBA involvement in decision-making processes.

 

Personal Characteristics and Experience:

Ideally, the Executive Director of the Heritage Corridor Business Alliance will have a unique combination of personal and professional qualifications.

This includes, but not limited to:

 • Familiarity with the unique challenges of running a nonprofit; someone who understands the dynamics of a chamber of commerce or similar membership organization and who is genuinely interested in working effectively within that realm

• Executive style that can generate respect and support from a wide range of constituents including large and small business, nonprofits, community groups, elected leaders and staff at local, regional and state level

• Demonstrated interest in the community and businesses of Homer Glen and Lemont and surrounding areas

• Ability to lead the development and implantation of the long-term vision that enhances the HCBA’s value proposition and relevance to current and future members

• Experience in understanding and developing accurate financial budgets, marketing plans, branding, and all other necessary plans to operate the day-to-day and long-term action plans of the HCBA

• Motivational leader who can attract, retain, develop, and empower and staff and volunteers

• A great listener who can articulate the HCBA mission and vision to retain and attract new members

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and presentation ability; comfortable with new and traditional media.

• Time management skills with a proven ability to prioritize responsibilities

• Reliable, self-motivated, outgoing and ability to motivate others

• Strong networking and leadership skills and the ability to function well as part of a multi-functional team

• Presents a professional image whenever representing the HCBA

 Essential Qualifications:

• College Degree preferred and five -years plus work experience in a related field

• Reliable attendance, some evening and weekend event work required

• Able to work in a PC networked environment that uses Microsoft Office products: Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Publisher, Internet browsers, and other necessary programs needed to accomplish the job

• Some graphic design and marketing experience preferred, or willingness to learn

• Previous experience with Chambermaster is preferred but not required

• Valid driver’s license required

 Typical Physical Activity:

• Repetitive motion

• Pushing/pulling/kneeling/bending

• Stooping/crouching

• Lifting and carrying

• Able to lift up to 50 pounds

• Reaching overhead

• Sitting, standing, walking for long periods of time

• Visual and mental concentration

 Compensation:

This role is a full-time, salaried position receiving a base salary competitive with Directors for Chambers of Commerce/ Business Alliances located within the southern Chicago Western suburbs with a membership size between 300-400 members. The Executive Director receives Management by Objective Bonuses for achieving goals established by Executive Committee of the Board of Directors. This position earns paid vacation and sick days.


Director – Illinois Valley Area Chamber of Commerce

The Illinois Valley Area Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development (IVAC) is looking for its next Director.  Located in Peru, Illinois, IVAC is a leading regional organization dedicated to growing the area economy.  Founded in 1913, we make a difference through active support of local businesses, partnerships with area organizations and community officials, workforce development efforts, and new business opportunities.  For more information on IVAC, see www.ivaced.org.

IVAC seeks an exceptional candidate who will unleash their dynamic leadership experience for our member driven organization. Our goal is to hire an innovative leader who can explore, develop, and execute a ground-breaking plan that can lead to new opportunities.   

Duties:

As Director, your responsibilities will include (but will not be limited to):

·        Refresh IVAC’s vision, direction and standard operating procedures, including how the organization will restart public activities as community COVID-19 precautions are lifted.

·         Oversee all functions of the IVAC office and staff, in accordance with the organization’s bylaws.

·         Develop and execute an annual business plan in support of strategic and tactical goals.

·         Prepare and manage Chamber activities against an approved annual budget.

·         Manage membership recruitment and retention.

·         Establish positive relationships with local and regional officials and community leaders in support of the organization’s goals.

·         Maintain close association with local businesses and assist with problems, maintain retention, and support business growth.

·         Lead Economic Development efforts, including attracting new businesses to the area.  Maintain contact and cooperate with other economic development organizations in the area.

·         Promote the public image of IVAC and be present on its behalf at functions.

·         Work with Chamber staff, Board Members, Ambassadors, and members to maintain a healthy and productive committee structure.  Participate in all committees.

This full-time position reports to IVAC’s Board of Directors.  Hours are flexible, but some evening and weekend commitments are part of the position.

Preparation & Qualifications:

A Bachelor’s Degree and management experience is required. Public speaking skills and the ability to collaborate and create beneficial partnerships on behalf of the Chamber are critical.  Previous Chamber experience and local community knowledge is a plus. 

Salary & Benefits:

Regionally competitive and negotiated with the final candidate.

 Application Deadline:

Friday April 30, 2021

To Apply:

Qualified candidates should submit a resume and cover letter to Mr. Jeff Borelli at jborelli@cpointcc.com. In the cover letter, candidates are expected to describe a proposed vision for IVAC and strategic approach to restart chamber activities as community COVID-19 precautions are lifted.

 IVAC IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER



 Greater Owensboro Chamber: Rooster Booster to Feature Susan Elkington, President of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky




Owensboro, Kentucky – The Greater Owensboro Chamber of Commerce will virtually host the April Rooster Booster this Thursday, April 1 at 7:30 a.m. CST.

The event will feature an interview with Susan Elkington by the 2021 Chamber Board Chair Clay Ford, Partner at Elkington is the President of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Kentucky (TMMK), Toyota’s largest vehicle manufacturing plant in the world. The virtual event is sponsored by New Beginnings Sexual Assault Support Services.

There is no cost to attend the remote April 1 Rooster Booster, which will stream through Facebook Live and Zoom. The Rooster Booster program will also be available on YouTube following the conclusion of the event.


#BestChamber practices: Barbi Jones, Cabbarus County Chamber: Get your High school juniors and seniors on-board with FASFA


Dear friends,
The Chamber continually works with our community partners to help ensure you have a well-educated talent pipeline with the necessary skills and training to fill your current and future workforce needs.
 
While COVID has caused many hurdles for students, we know that a brighter future is coming! We want our students to understand the career possibilities available to them, and many of those start with the completion of the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) form. Last year, over $110 million in federal aid was left on the table, and only 30% of Cabarrus County and Kannapolis City Students completed this form that shows them grants, loans, work study opportunities, scholarships and institutional funds which help make college affordable.
 
Our Cabarrus County Schools, Kannapolis City Schools and Rowan-Cabarrus Community College are working hard to let students know about the FAFSA and what is available to them. The form can be completed junior and senior year! We know parents and other family members play crucial roles in their students’ post-high school career decisions, and we are hoping as employers to many of these parents, you can help us spread the word. I am attaching a letter to parents that explains what is needed to complete the FAFSA and ways parents can get help completing it. Would you consider sending this to your workforce or posting it in internal communications? Over the next few weeks, we will be sharing information on our Facebook and Instagram pages. If your company is active on these platforms, please consider sharing our posts!
 
We know when this community works together, great things happen! Thank you for your consideration of helping us move the Class of 2021 forward to bright futures!

FAFSA Letter to Parents
 
Best Regards,
Barbi Jones
Executive Director

 Drive-Thru Job Fair Planned for Oshkosh Area

A Drive-Thru Job Fair is planned for April 22nd from 3pm to 6 pm at the Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce, 120 Jackson Street, Oshkosh. Packets with career opportunities from 75 companies will be handed out to interested job applicants.

Due to COVID concerns for an in-person job fair, this drive-thru job fair is designed to get information about career opportunities into the hands of those seeking a new role. A reminder that we want to help you with your job search and keep you safe.

• You won't need to exit your car and kindly wear a mask.

• You'll receive a bag with positions available at local companies that are hiring now and they are tailored to your region;

• When you arrive, follow the traffic flow and wait patiently while others are served;

• There will NOT be anyone who can assist with Unemployment Insurance claims at this event and we ask that only those seeking a new role stop by for a packet;

• There is a limited supply of packets available - first come, first served.

Patti Andresen-Shew, Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce commented, “This is a great way for job seekers to learn about the numerous opportunities available in the Oshkosh area and understand how to apply to businesses that are looking for candidates. The Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce is pleased to be partnering with the Fox Valley Workforce Board to assist businesses in getting the word out on companies that are hiring.”

“We know the pandemic has had a great impact on the hiring process, as many local employers and job seekers have sought to utilize what may have been previously unfamiliar methods of recruitment and career development,” said FVWDB CEO Anthony Snyder. “A drive-thru job fair is just one of the many creative ways our workforce partners can keep our economy growing, fill open roles and ensure everyone begins the summer fully employed.”

For more information on the Fox Valley Job Centers or the work of the Fox Valley Workforce Development Board, please visit www.foxvalleywork.org or call 920-594-3655.

Or Patti Andresen-Shew, Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce, 920-303-2265 x29, patti@oshkoshchamber.com


 WMC: Wisconsin Made. The Podcast. Episode #2 Now Streaming

Episode #2 Available Now

 

“I can say that we were probably challenged more with trying to be fast, fluid and flexible in 2020 than ever before in the history of the company.”

Tony Cavalco | CEO | Nicolet Plastics

 

In the second episode of “Wisconsin Made. The Podcast.” we highlight our first manufacturing story as we feature Nicolet Plastics out of Jackson, Wisconsin. In 2020, they lived by their trademark: Fast, Fluid and Flexible. Nicolet Plastics had a customer who manufactured disposable PPE that suddenly experienced a huge increase in demand due to COVID-19.

In less than two weeks, the company added a third shift and increased production from 200,000 parts per week to 600,000. Over the next six weeks, they added equipment and began running shifts 24/7 to produce 1.6 million parts per week.

Kosciusko County Chamber: VIRTUAL THIRD HOUSE REVIEW SESSION

Friday, March 26th
11:00am - 12:00pm

Please join us today for our second of three virtual 2021 Third House Review Sessions with State Senators Ryan Mishler and Blake Doriot and State Representatives Craig Snow and Curt Nisly. Please use the information below to access the meeting.

Please join my meeting from your computer, tablet or smartphone.
https://www.gotomeet.me/RobParker2/3rd-house-session-legislative-review

You can also dial in using your phone. United States: +1 (646) 749-3112
Access Code: xxx-xx-xxxx

#BestChamber Practices: (via the CARY GROVE Chamber) Newsletter links


IMPORTANT COVID LINKS

· Resume McHenry County

· CDC

· Illinois Department of Health/Restore Illinois

· Illinois CDC

· McHenry County Health Department

· FEMA

· Ready.gov (Homeland Security)

· US Department of Labor (OSHA)

· US Small Business

· United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

· U.S. Chamber of Commerce

· World Health Organization

· Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce

· Village of Cary

· McHenry County




Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Announces Support for Holt Bond Issue on May 4 Ballot


The Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce (LRCC) has announced its support for a $148 million bond issue in the Holt Public School District.  The May 4ballot proposal would include improvements in four key areas of critical infrastructure, safety and security, learning environments, and innovation over the next eight years. Taxpayers will be asked to vote on a projected tax decrease of 1.77 mils compared to the previous year’s tax rate.

 

“The Lansing Regional Chamber has been consistent in supporting our students through the support of bond proposals for school districts,” said Tim Daman, president & CEO, LRCC. “This investment is desperately needed.  The Holt Public School District will be investing approximately $148 million in the health, safety, and security of the buildings to benefit the students, staff, and community.

 

“The last time we asked voters to consider a bond of this type was the year 2000,” said Dr. David Hornak, superintendent, Holt Public Schools. “Our last bond was focused on the secondary level and provided the funding for the high school. This bond proposal will focus on improving all our tired facilities.However, we will be emphasizing projects at the elementary level, which includes reconstructing two elementary schools.”

 

If approved, the new bond will create equitable access to resources by reconstructing two new TK-5 buildings at opposite ends of the District, while reducing the number of building transitions for students. The proposal also allows for:

·         Reducing transitions between buildings supports relationship building and improved student outcomes

·         Proposing a new structure: TK-5; middle school,6-8; and traditional high school,9-12

·         Reconstructing two new TK-5 elementary schools, Dimondale and Sycamore, on their current site locations

·         Reconfiguring existing elementary buildings to accommodate grades TK-5, including possible classroom and gym additions

·         Adding classroom space at Washington Woods to create a 6-8 middle school; cafeteria expansion

·         Adding new technology and infrastructure will enable students and staff to have easy access to innovative learning opportunities with updated devices and equipment

·         Making select improvements to athletic and performing arts

 

The Holt bond proposal also calls for: updating facilities to ensure a safe and secure learning environment for students and staff; updating building infrastructure that is at or past its useful life cycle to address aging facility issues district-wide; and creating flexible, modern spaces that support creativity and collaboration while helping students build up their experiences each year until they graduate from Holt Public Schools.

“It is rare that a community ever has the opportunity to generate nearly $150 million to keep kids healthy, safe and secure,” Scott Ammon, Holt resident. “Other debt is being paid off, and the district is asking for some of this back to invest in our schools. This is a smart, sensible, and financially strategic strategy.” 

 

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




Join the Arlington Chamber of Commerce for a Women in Business Networking event

 

Join the Arlington Chamber of Commerce for a Women in Business Networking event on May 5 from 5:00-6:00 p.m.!

The Women in Business Networking series is open to all women to expand your network, share knowledge, exchange ideas, and offer advice. The events focus on networking to grow your business opportunities and support others who know what it’s like to be a woman in business. 

 As an added bonus, attendees will be registered to win a $50 gift card to local woman-owned restaurant, Lebanese Taverna, compliments of Arlington Community Federal Credit Union. Winner will be chosen at end of event. Must be present to win.


Registration for current members of the Chamber is $10. Prospective members may register for $20. All registrants will receive the Zoom meeting link in the confirmation email upon registration.

If you have any questions concerning the event or registration, please contact Operations Manager, Olivia McKay, at chamber@arlingtonchamber.org or (703) 525-2400.



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!


Monday, January 18, 2021

Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce - President's Corner; Indiana Chamber President and CEO Kevin Brinegar offers commentary on the start of the 2021 Indiana General Assembly Jan. 4th; Statement from Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Tim Daman; Chamber serving Lexington, Buena Vista and Rockbridge County: REDI Community Input Session; The Top of Virginia Regional Chamber 2020 Voice of Business; Marion Chamber: Stream the Chamber Virtual Awards Ceremony, Invite the Public and Finish with a Live Concert; Hartford Area Chamber Annual Dinner: Virtual 2021 - Nominate today for 2020 Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce Awards - Nominations Open Until January 15, 2021; Fox Cities Chamber adds three to professional staff; Greensburg-Decatur County Chamber of Commerce Community Map; Mequon Thiensville Chamber: Attention Ozaukee County Businesses: Get FREE Marketing Assistance; Monroe County Chamber: SBA Re-Opening Paycheck Protection Program to Small Lenders on Friday, January 15 and All Lenders on Tuesday, January 19; Biewer Lumber Opening New Sawmill in Winona, Creating 150 Jobs; Greater Owensboro Chamber: Upcoming Webinar: COVID-19 Vaccine Q&A with GRDHD Director Clay Horton; 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!

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


Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce - President's Corner

By Kara Beer, IOM, MPA

We’ve never faced a pandemic of this scale in our lifetimes. Add to that global economic impacts that will likely linger for months or even years.

What has become clear is that the role and value of chambers of commerce has never been more crucial. Not just to get our communities through the pandemic, but to help drive economic recovery far into the future.

While referencing the 2020 adopted strategic plan of the Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce,
I’m reminded of how while the strategies and tasks may be adjusted now, we here at the Chamber are
having impact with the community on a multitude of ways daily.

IMPACT STATEMENT OF THE BATTLE CREEK AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce connects and empowers business and community professionals to have the courage and confidence to be catalytic leaders in addressing their business 
and communities’ greatest issues.

Our 4 Key Priority Areas

Be a Center of Excellence for Business. Be the number one resource for best practice and innovative resources and information for the business community in the greater Battle Creek region and Calhoun County.

Storytelling. Help business professionals craft their narratives, and serve as a community platform and megaphone for business success stories.

Community Advocacy. Provide the information, connections and services that will help businesses and organizations proactively address the greatest challenges within their businesses/organizations, so they can best promote, serve, and grow within our region.

Organizational Excellence. Ensure the Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce is the best organization it can be for staff and members.

So many of you have been innovating through these challenging times. Our team is inspired. And, we know continuing to share best practices and innovations - and connecting as a community to build our future - will make us all stronger. Our Chamber team will continue to need grit, passion, innovation, and a collaborative mindset to move the economy and community forward.

I will go more into detail of each of our key priority areas and how we’re having or looking to have impact in our community over the next year throughout this publication.


#ChamberExecutive Ongoing Education Weekly New Idea: (Via Jack Klemeyer <jack@gybcoaching.com>)

My friends at eti performance improvement have started sharing complementary lessons on Tuesday and they're calling them 2-Minute Tuesday!

You might enjoy subscribing to 2-Minute Tuesday to increase your learning in 2021.

From time-to-time, I'll be sharing resources that will add value to you and your business. Watch for more great resources.

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Capture Data Like a Pro with Drop Down List

In this video we explore how to create a drop down list in Excel. Learn how to populate a drop down list wth data. add a tooltip and keep your team on track with custom messages



Editor's note: I love this website...If you are a chamber person, that learned Word or Excel on the fly, this is a handy learning tool that takes 5 minutes a week.



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Indiana Chamber President and CEO Kevin Brinegar offers commentary on the start of the 2021 Indiana General Assembly Jan. 4th

“The unique circumstances and unknowns will undoubtedly figure into what and how things get accomplished. We are hopeful for a productive legislative session because there are plenty of issues for lawmakers to address that are closely or tangentially tied to the pandemic and how it’s altered business and the workforce.

“At the top of our priority list is protecting businesses and institutions from legal liability if someone contracts COVID-19 after returning to work or school, or after visiting a health facility. These protections would be for those employers and places that have made a good faith effort to follow recognized safety guidelines.

“Two long-term goals have improved odds in 2021. Those are raising the cigarette tax and the state implementing a work share program.

“Indiana’s smoking rate is the fourth highest in the country. A big reason is that our cigarette tax is the lowest in the Midwest and among the lowest nationally. We are advocating for a $2 per pack increase because it’s proven to be the one action to successfully reduce smoking and health care costs. It could also possibly bolster depleted state revenue.

“Work share is a safety net during economic downturns, like the current pandemic. Employers can reduce hours without full layoffs, and then over time, employees can be returned to full-time status once circumstances improve. It’s unfortunate Indiana did not have such a program in place in 2020. A new study by the Brookings Institution estimates that Indiana lost as much as $100 million in federal unemployment insurance funding in 2020 because it was not a work share state. Indiana simply can’t afford to be unprepared again.

“Additionally, incentives around remote workers and further preparing all areas of the state for new technology are no longer an option but required. Broadband connectivity is becoming as important an infrastructure need as water and electricity.

“We expect legislation to be introduced on all of these issues and will be advocating for them to be heard in committees and advanced to the House and Senate floors.”

As the legislative session unfolds, the Indiana Chamber will update its online policy center at www.indianachamber.com/policy.



Statement from Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Tim Daman 

 "As we monitor the potential for protests in capital cities across the country, the Lansing Regional Chamber stands with Lansing Mayor Andy Schor on his request to Governor Whitmer to activate the Michigan National Guard. We believe it's essential to protect our historic Michigan Capitol building and the businesses, offices, and neighborhoods surrounding it. Lansing welcomes visitors each year to exercise their First Amendment rights. However, we will never condone nor view violence as acceptable."

Contact: 

Contact: Ashley Sandborn
Lansing Regional Chamber of Co mmerce 
(517) 342-4549
asandborn@lansingchamber.org


Chamber serving Lexington, Buena Vista and Rockbridge County: REDI Community Input Session

The public is invited to join us, along with our jurisdictional partners, for a virtual community meeting to provide input on how to drive success and create opportunities for economic development in our region by making the most of our resources. The session, scheduled for Thursday, January 21st at 1:00 p.m., will be facilitated by Leslie Schaller, ACEnet Director of Programs, representing REDI and USDA Rural Development. FREE. Register online.


The Top of Virginia Regional Chamber 2020 Voice of Business

The Top of Virginia Regional Chamber 2020 Voice of Business is available at the Chamber today! Thanks to Cynthia Schneider 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 or call (847)-427-4633.


Marion Chamber: Stream the Chamber Virtual Awards Ceremony, Invite the Public and Finish with a Live Concert 


How to Stream the Virtual Awards Ceremony 

We are excited to share this year's awards ceremony and auction with our members and Marion community FREE ONLINE! Please share this email with family and friends so they can login to support our honorees and cheer on the chamber as we begin 2021. We encourage you to log in early to 

is a reminder of the Virtual Awards Ceremony. Please stay online to enjoy the After Party hosted by Pepsi Mid America with performances by 90s Kidz Band (featuring fellow board member Matt Reising)!! 

The program will be broadcasted on: 

Chamber's website homepage: https://www.marionillinois.com 
Event Page: https://www.marionillinois.com/awards 
Chamber Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/marionilchamber 
Vimeo Link: (Will be updated on Thursday) 

Please consider supporting one of our Local Chamber Restaurants as your celebrate our first (and hopefully last) virtual annual awards program. 

If you have not already done so, please check out this year’s Online Silent Auction! Registering is fast and easy! 

Silent Auction 

This year’s auction is also going from January 5th – 18th, allowing for plenty of time to secure the perfect item and bid from the comfort of work or home. 100% of the proceeds from this year’s auction will go to the Chamber Foundation and our organization. If you have any questions, please contact the Chamber office at 618-997-6311. 

After the 18th, winners of the auction items will be contacted to schedule a pickup time of their item(s) from the Chamber office. Non-local items can be shipped! 


Hartford Area Chamber Annual Dinner: Virtual 2021 - Nominate today for 2020 Hartford Area Chamber of Commerce Awards - Nominations Open Until January 15, 2021


Things look a little different this year regarding our Annual Dinner. We will be hosting a virtual award ceremony and need your help in nominating local Hartford individuals, businesses and organizations! The Hartford Chamber has added two new awards, Jim & Dorothy Algiers Award and the COVID Award. The Jim & Dorothy Algiers Award is presented to an individual or couple who have or has continuously gone above and beyond serving the Hartford community. The COVID Award is presented to a business that has successfully created a new way of doing business during COVID. 

Please contact the Hartford Chamber to be sent the nomination form at info@hartfordchamber.org or stop in office to pickup! 


Fox Cities Chamber adds three to professional staff

Mary Jo Beschta, Kate Bruns, and Sharla Jens join Chamber team

The Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce is kicking off 2021 by officially welcoming three new full-time staff members to its team.

 Kate Bruns, who joined the staff on a part-time basis in November 2020, is now the Chamber’s full-time Vice President for Marketing and Communications as of Jan. 4. On Jan. 11, the Chamber added Sharla Jens as Vice President for Investor Relations and Mary Jo Beschta as Administrative Assistant.

 “As we enter 2021, I am very excited about the new ways we can serve our members and our community by adding these three talented individuals to our full-time staff,” Chamber President and CEO Becky Bartoszek said. “Each one of them brings a broad base of knowledge and a wealth of experience to the Chamber’s work and will help us make a real impact.”

As Vice President for Marketing and Communications, Bruns will oversee the Chamber’s efforts in the areas of public and media relations, marketing and advertising, publications and communications, branding, and member publicity. Before joining the Chamber she spent 20 years overseeing a wide variety of marketing and communications projects at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa, and worked as a freelance writer and editor for clients across the Midwest.

 As Vice President for Investor Relations, Jens will serve as the primary point of contact for the Chamber’s investors, working to understand their needs and steward their support to benefit initiatives in economic development, community development, and talent attraction. Prior to her work with the Chamber, Jens served in management and sales leadership roles with Multi Color Corporation (formerly WS Packaging Group), National Envelope , and State Farm Insurance, as well as spent 17 years managing critical business accounts across the Midwest for Alltel.

As Administrative Assistant, Beschta will wear a wide assortment of hats at the Chamber of Commerce, bringing her legal and organizational background to special projects that range from community relations to organizational infrastructure. She will also serve as the primary liaison to the Chamber’s 27-member Board of Directors. Beschta spent 17 years at Adventures in Advertising (AIA) in Appleton, where she most recently managed AIA’s legal department for two years.




Greensburg-Decatur County Chamber of Commerce Community Map 


The Greensburg/Decatur County Chamber of Commerce Community Map is available at the New Castle-Henry County Chamber today! Thanks to Jeff Emsweller 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 guide or publication needs at no expense to the chamber. Please email John Dussman at jdussman@tspubs.com or call (847)-427-4633. 


Mequon Thiensville Chamber: Attention Ozaukee County Businesses: Get FREE Marketing Assistance 

Submit Your Application Today! 

APPLY 

Vertz Marketing Rotary Small Business Innovation Center at Concordia University Wisconsin | Batterman School of Business 

The Vertz Marketing Rotary Small Business Innovation Center at Concordia University partners with select Ozaukee county businesses to provide marketing and business development services to foster economic development in the region. Ten qualified area businesses will receive FREE digital marketing and business development planning. 

Eligible Businesses


The Vertz Marketing Rotary Small Business Innovation Center at Concordia University is accepting applications for businesses to become a part of our FREE program for winter 2021. Business should meet the following guidelines:

• Less than 10 employees.

• Revenue of less than $1 million annually.

• Business is seeking help in developing a comprehensive digital marketing & associated business development plan strategy.

• Business is willing to work with assigned intern students from Concordia University Wisconsin Batterman School of Business for a fall or spring semester.


What Accepted Businesses Will Receive...


• Business programs will start in January, 2021 and last for approximately 4 months.

• Your business will receive approximately 100 hours of marketing and business development services from Concordia University Wisconsin marketing students under the direction of Vertz Marketing and Concordia University Wisconsin - all at no charge.

• Your business will receive a FREE private consulting meeting with Vertz Marketing for marketing and business development growth planning. 

• Your business will have access to business networking and mentoring opportunities through Vertz Marketing, Rotary International, Ozaukee Area Chamber of Commerce Organizations and Ozaukee Economic Development. 

• Your business will have access to marketing and business development resources at Concordia University Wisconsin Batterman School of Business.

Click here for more details about the program 


Monroe County Chamber: SBA Re-Opening Paycheck Protection Program to Small Lenders on Friday, January 15 and All Lenders on Tuesday, January 19




The U.S. Small Business Administration, in consultation with the U.S. Treasury Department, will re-open the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan portal to PPP-eligible lenders with $1 billion or less in assets for First and Second Draw applications on Friday, January 15, 2021 at 9 a.m. EST. The portal will fully open on Tuesday, January 19, 2021 to all participating PPP lenders to submit First and Second Draw loan applications to SBA.

Earlier in the week, SBA granted dedicated PPP access to Community Financial Institutions (CFIs) which include Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs), Minority Depository Institutions (MDIs), Certified Development Companies (CDCs), and Microloan Intermediaries as part of the agency’s ongoing efforts to reach underserved and minority small businesses.

On Friday, SBA will continue its emphasis on reaching smaller lenders and businesses by opening to approximately 5,000 more lenders, including community banks, credit unions, and farm credit institutions. Moreover, the agency also plans to have dedicated service hours for these smaller lenders after the portal fully re-opens next week.

First Draw PPP Loans are for those borrowers who have not received a PPP loan before August 8, 2020. The first round of the PPP, which ran from March to August 2020, was a historic success helping 5.2 million small businesses keep 51 million American workers employed.

Second Draw PPP Loans are for eligible small businesses with 300 employees or less, that previously received a First Draw PPP Loan and will use or have used the full amount only for authorized uses, and that can demonstrate at least a 25% reduction in gross receipts between comparable quarters in 2019 and 2020. The maximum amount of a Second Draw PPP loan is $2 million.

Updated PPP Lender forms, guidance, and resources are available at www.sba.gov/ppp and www.treasury.gov/cares.




Biewer Lumber Opening New Sawmill in Winona, Creating 150 Jobs


Biewer Lumber is constructing a new, state-of-the-art sawmill in Winona, Mississippi. The project is a $130 million investment and will create 150 jobs.

“The growth of companies like Biewer Lumber in Mississippi sends a strong message that our state has a supportive business environment and a skilled workforce,” Gov. Tate Reeves said. “Biewer Lumber’s construction and expansion of the sawmill in Newton and now the construction of a new sawmill in Winona and the creation of these jobs is a testament to that fact.”

Biewer Lumber is a family owned company headquartered in St. Clair, Michigan. The company operates five sawmills: two in Michigan, two in Wisconsin and one in Newton, Mississippi.

“My family’s passion for the lumber industry has prompted this expansion in the South,” said Tim Biewer, president and CEO of the company. “There is no better place to grow the business than the fiber-rich state of Mississippi.”

The facility in Newton was built in 2016, and the company expanded in 2019, increasing its mill production by 100 million board feet per year and creating 45 jobs. The sawmill now has 175 employees, operates two saw lines and produces 350 million board feet per year.

The sawmill in Winona will have the ability to produce 350 million board feet of lumber per year.

MDA is providing an Industry Incentive grant to assist with road infrastructure and rail and site prep. MDA also is providing a CAP loan to Montgomery County to assist with public infrastructure. The company also qualifies for the Advantage Jobs Rebate program, which provides a cash rebate to eligible businesses that create new jobs exceeding the average annual wage of the state or the county in which the company locates.

Montgomery County is providing a fee-in-lieu of property taxes.

“Montgomery County is proud to welcome Biewer Lumber to our community, and we look forward to watching the company grow and thrive in the years to come,” said Ron Wood, president of the Montgomery County Board of Supervisors. “A development of this magnitude will not only generate a great deal of new revenue and 150 new jobs for Montgomery County, but it will highlight the county as a premier location for future developments, especially with its central location, three major transportation corridors, and leadership committed to making Montgomery County an ideal locale to do business.”

Sue Stidham, director of the Montgomery County Economic Development Council, said the new sawmill will benefit the entire area.

“We are proud and grateful to welcome a new company and citizen to our community, Biewer Lumber,” she said. “The jobs they bring will fill a need in Montgomery County as well as the surrounding counties. We thank the Montgomery County Board of Supervisors, the mayor and city of Winona and the Economic Development District and Council for making this a joint effort with the state of Mississippi.”

“Just a few short years after opening its first sawmill in Mississippi, Biewer Lumber already is constructing another facility, one that will provide good jobs to the citizens of Montgomery County,” MDA Interim Director John Rounsaville said. “This new sawmill illustrates Biewer Lumber’s commitment to creating jobs in Mississippi and building stronger communities here. We appreciate the efforts of the Montgomery County Board of Supervisors, the Economic Development Partnership of Montgomery County, Entergy and Atmos Gas in making this possible.”

 Click here for more information.



Greater Owensboro Chamber: Upcoming Webinar: COVID-19 Vaccine Q&A with GRDHD Director Clay Horton 


On Thursday, January 21 at 2:30 p.m. we will host a COVID-19 Vaccine Update webinar with Clay Horton, Director of the Green River District Health Department. It will address many of the questions surrounding the vaccine's availability, distribution, and effectiveness. The webinar will be hosted via Zoom. 

Horton previously led a COVID-19 Protocol webinar with us in November, which you can view now on our YouTube channel

Register Now to Join via Zoom 



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!