Showing posts with label MACP. Show all posts
Showing posts with label MACP. Show all posts

Thursday, May 14, 2020

Arlington (VA) Chamber: Governor Northam Delays Phase One Reopening for Arlington; Mondays with MIKI - Mondays with Chamber Executives in Michigan, Illinois, Kentucky and Indiana; Area Development Partnership (ADP): Support On the Way for MS Small Businesses; Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce Statement on Supreme Court Decision; #FamousChamber of Commerce Quotation: Be happy; Daily Herald: Two New Facebook Groups: Teachers and Good News; Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce Presents: Industry Roundtables; Birmingham-Bloomfield Chamber: House Democratic Downtown Business Coalition Listening Tour; "A Pet Friendly Virtual Happy Hour" from the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber; From Erin Guthrie, Illinois DCEO: Fast Track Capital Grants; Valpo Chamber - Re-Opening Message from Rex Richards; Carol Stream Chamber: DuPage Small Business Relief Program Grant; Romeoville Chamber of Commerce; Madison County Officials Considering Re-Opening Plan; Small Business Information: Coronavirus Recovery Information in Languages other than English; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best Chamber Partner in the USA!







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


Arlington (VA) Chamber: Governor Northam Delays Phase One Reopening for Arlington 


Governor Northam has delayed Phase One of the Forward Virginia reopening plan for Northern Virginia, including Arlington, until at least Thursday, May 28 at 11:59 p.m. to allow more time to meet certain health metrics. Other regions across Virginia begin Phase One tomorrow, May 15. 

This past weekend, the Chairs of Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William Counties and the Mayor of Alexandria wrote to the governor requesting the delay. The elected officials cited an assessment by our region’s public health directors that Northern Virginia has not yet met the criteria for moving into Phase One. Among the data they cited is that Northern Virginia’s percentage of positive COVID-19 tests is substantially higher than the rest of the Commonwealth’s. Northern Virginia has about a 25 percent positivity rate, while the rest of the Commonwealth is closer to 10 percent. Also, 70 percent of the Commonwealth’s new positive cases are located in Northern Virginia, according to the governor’s office. 

Responding this request, Governor Northam issued Executive Order Sixty-Two, delaying Northern Virginia’s entry into Phase One of Forward Virginia. This order applies in the counties of Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William; the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, Falls Church, Manassas, and Manassas Park; and the towns of Dumfries, Herndon, Leesburg, and Vienna. The order keeps our region in “Phase Zero”, extending of the restrictions of Executive Orders Fifty-Three and Fifty-Five until 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, May 28. These restrictions include: 

· 10-person limit in non-essential retail 
· Restaurants limited to takeout and delivery 
· 10-person limit on gatherings (also continues in Phase One) 
· Teleworking encouraged for office work (also continues in Phase One) 
· Personal grooming facilities (salons, barbers, etc.) closed 

Looking Ahead: Preparing for Phase One 
Even though Arlington and the rest of Northern Virginia will remain in Phase Zero for the next two weeks, we can use this time for to prepare for Phase One. The Commonwealth of Virginia has set up a Forward Virginia website with Phase One guidelines for all businesses, and specific guidance for certain business sectors. These guides include both information on what will be permitted and prohibited, and best practices for cleaning, disinfection, social distancing, face coverings, and other health and safety practices that will apply in Phase One. They have also prepared this chart showing what will change in Phase One for quick reference. 

For additional information and resources, visit the Chamber's COVID-19 Resource Center.   



Mondays with MIKI - Mondays with Chamber Executives in Michigan, Illinois, Kentucky and Indiana




Join us for the inaugural session of Mondays with MIKI (Michigan, Indiana, Kentucky, Illinois). This series is geared towards chamber professionals and their needs as we get back to a "new normal".

This first session features Dave Adkisson, former CEO of the Kentucky Chamber and Past Board Chair of ACCE and Council of State Chambers. He will lead us through a discussion on Protecting the Chamber Brand.

Area Development Partnership (ADP): Support On the Way for MS Small Businesses

Wednesday, May 13th, the State House & Senate passed a historic, bipartisan $300 million small business relief bill (S.B. 2772) for businesses impacted by COVID-19. This is the first allocation of the $1.25 billion in federal coronavirus relief funds Mississippi received as part of the federal CARES Act. The relief programs (outlined below) would be for businesses that existed before March 1 and have 50 or fewer employees. Businesses that work in partisan politics or in lobbying are not eligible to apply. It now moves on to Governor Tate Reeves for signing.

Included in this bill is aid for Mississippi small businesses as follows:
Phase I: $60 million
·     $2,000 Relief Checks - All businesses (< 50 employees) that filed Mississippi state income taxes in 2018, 2019, or eligible businesses who intend to file for 2020, and who were subject to any COVID-19 related state, municipal, and/or county required business closure or voluntary closure will receive a $2,000 relief check- no application required. Businesses covered in this phase include clothing stores, dance studios, barber shops, salons, restaurants, etc.

Phase 2: $240 million
·     Relief Grant Program - All businesses (<50 employees) that filed Mississippi state income taxes in 2018, 2019, or eligible businesses who intend to file for 2020, and suffered any interruption in businesses due to COVID-19 may apply to receive up to $25,000 in grants to cover payroll, rent, utilities, mortgage interest payments and other eligible expenses incurred during the the COVID-19 outbreak. Approved applicants under this program will receive a base payment of $1,500 and can either (1) receive an additional $500 per full-time equivalent employee OR (2) itemize eligible expenses on the application form. 
·     Additional notes on Phase 2
·     Businesses that receive checks under Phase 1 are still eligible to apply for Phase 2 relief without restriction. 
·     Businesses that did not receive federal PPP funds will receive priority for the first 21 days of the program. After that period, businesses that received PPP funds will be allowed to apply, with a portion of their state aid offset based on the amount of the PPP loan.
·     For the first 60 days, $40 million will be reserved for minority-owned businesses. 
·     Grants awarded will not be subject to tax. 

Both programs will be administered by the MS Development Authority which is already working to get Phase 1 payments sent to eligible business owners without delay.

Finally, we want to give a special thank you and recognition to our Senators and Representatives who represent Greater Hattiesburg. We have a strong delegation that advocates for our region in Jackson and it’s their hard work and leadership that has helped ensure our small businesses are getting this critical support! 

 Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce Statement on Supreme Court Decision

MADISON – Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC) President & CEO Kurt Bauer released the following statement after the Wisconsin Supreme Court struck down Emergency Order #28 – which extended the state’s Safer at Home order – as unlawful, invalid and unenforceable:
“We commend the state Supreme Court for upholding the rule of law and understanding that coequal branches of government must work together, especially in times of crisis. Today’s decision is a win for the state’s economy, countless businesses and hundreds of thousands of unemployed Wisconsinites who are ready to get back to work. WMC looks forward to working collaboratively with the legislature and Gov. Evers to ensure the state begins its economic recovery in a safe and sustainable way so we can protect both lives and livelihoods.”
For more information, please contact: Nick Novak, 608.239.4866

#FamousChamber of Commerce Quotation: Be happy


"Be open to transformation."

 Daily Herald: Two New Facebook Groups: Teachers and Good News

Hi everyone,
We have two new Facebook groups and two new corresponding newsletters we'd like your help promoting.

Suburban Teachers Facebook group and newsletter
We all know someone who's a teacher. Many of us are parents who communicate with our kids' teachers over email, especially during distance learning. Please tell them about our new FB group and newsletter. When you join the FB group, it's easy to invite others. Or you can send them the link and encourage them to join and contribute. 
Here's the link to the FB group -- 
https://www.facebook.com/groups/SuburbanTeachers/

Good News in the Suburbs Facebook group and newsletter
We've also found that people are craving good news now more than ever. We'd like your help encouraging anyone you know to join the Good News FB group. Again, you can join and invite everyone you know.  
Here's the link to to group --  
https://www.facebook.com/groups/GoodNewsfromtheSuburbs/

To sign up for the Teacher and Good News newsletters, visit
https://www.dailyherald.com/newsletters 
Please share the sign-up page with as many people as possible.

Thank you for your help! I really appreciate it!

Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce Presents: Industry Roundtables

You asked; We listened. We heard from many of our businesses and organizations that you wanted the opportunity to have conversations with others in your industry. Join us for the opportunity to share challenges, solutions, and ideas regarding the impact of COVID 19.

Manufacturing
Wednesday,
May 20th
10:00 a.m.
Join the conversation
https://bit.ly/2LsfZ8g


Not for Profit Organizations
Wednesday,
May 20th
1:00 p.m.
join the conversation
https://bit.ly/2T1Mpuw


Restaurants
Tuesday,
May 19th
10:00 a.m.
join the conversation
https://bit.ly/35W8eko


Finance and
Insurance
Thursday,
May 21st
1:00 p.m.
join the conversation
https://bit.ly/3dFWPYy


Business and Professional Services
Thursday, May 21st 10:00 a.m.
join the conversation
https://bit.ly/2LmNjxk


Retail
Tuesday, May 19th
1:00 p.m.
join the conversation
https://bit.ly/2Z46jss


Health Care
Friday, May 22nd
10:00 a.m.
join the conversation:
https://bit.ly/2Z1l7s3


Education
Friday
May 22nd 1:00 p.m.
join the conversation:
https://bit.ly/2WRRTcq

Please contact Kris Noble at knoble@saukvalleyareachamber.com or call 815-625-2400 for more information.

COVID resources: https://www.saukvalleyareachamber.com/covid-19-resources
Join the Facebook group: Sauk Valley Area Updates-resources for Sterling and Rock Falls

Birmingham-Bloomfield Chamber: House Democratic Downtown Business Coalition Listening Tour


The BBChamber invites you to join us for the House Democratic Downtown Business Coalition Listening Tour - Metro Detroit / SE Oakland

Michigan is home to some 16,500 restaurants and over 15,000 retail shops, employing over 1.25 million Michiganders. Small businesses are the heart of our cities, villages, and townships. They define Michigan’s culture in a way no other individual industry can. This round-table discussion is for us to hear from small businesses about what they need to be successful.

Together, we will work to create policy for Michigan's small businesses. Policy that is driven by Main Street, not Capitol Avenue.

We look forward to hosting you Friday, May 15, 2020 at 2:00pm.

Yours in Service,

Rep. Mari Manoogian
Rep. Kyra Harris Bolden
House Democratic Leader Christine Greig

 "A Pet Friendly Virtual Happy Hour" from the Pittsburgh North Regional Chamber 

Business (After) Inside Hours
Friday, May 15th: 4:30PM

Come Network with us ONLINE
Bring your Furry Friends
For a Pet Friendly Virtual Happy Hour!

Connect with your fellow Chamber members virtually to share a drink
from a socially safe distance...
Connect via Zoom hosted by the PNRC


Free Appetizers, compliments of your refrigerator

And of course, BYOB!

Time: May 15, 2020 04:30 PM Eastern Time
Join Zoom Meeting provided by Wesbanco's Cranberry Twp Branch

Register Here

If you have any questions about the upcoming virtual meetings or having technical issues, please contact our tech guru, Beth Machine, at 724-816-8282.


From Erin Guthrie, Illinois DCEO: Fast Track Capital Grants


Today, DCEO joined Governor Pritzker in announcing the Fast Track Capital Grants– a $25 million initiative to accelerate funding to help complete critical public infrastructure projects. This program will help ensure planned capital projects move forward in spite of revenue loss facing the entire state, will prioritize projects in underserved communities, and will ensure skilled labor can return to the job site just in time for the summer construction season.

This new program builds on a series of COVID-19 relief and assistance programs totaling over $100 million – including the Downstate Small Business Stabilization Program, the Emergency Small Business Loan Fund, and more. A full menu of programs can be found on DCEO's website here.

We encourage all of our business partners to stay informed on the latest information pertaining to the reopening or programs for businesses by visiting our website, signing up for any one of our upcoming webinars, or by following us on social media.

Stay safe and be well,

Erin Guthrie
Director of DCEO



Valpo Chamber - Re-Opening Message from Rex Richards

Dear John:

The Valpo Chamber is open for business.  We look forward to helping our members get our marketplace humming again. I am writing this from our front conference room which has three large windows and faces Lincolnway. What a tremendous sight to see cars parked on both sides of the street and traffic flowing in both directions.

Here are the results of the 5-question survey we asked our membership to complete prior to the Governor announcing his 5-phase plan. It looks like his plan mirrored our members’ wishes.  Here we go:

1. The best approach to reopening Indiana’s economy?
  1. All at once – 29%
  2. Phased opening by industry – 71%
 2. If phased opening is chosen, should those be:
  1. Every 2 weeks beginning in May – 51%
  2. Mostly in May, June, and July – 31%
  3. No answer – 2%
 3. Should restaurants be allowed to reopen:
  1. At full capacity – 10%
  2. At lowered capacity increasing over phases – 90%
 4. Should social distancing be:
  1. Eliminated all at once – 10%
  2. Phased out over time – 90%
 5. What changes might your company implement moving forward?  Check all that apply:
  1. Change workplace space to allow for social distancing – 68%
  2. Alternate staff to restrict exposure – 33%
  3. Add new safety features i.e. masks, gloves, etc. – 58%
  4. Continue remote work – 49%
  5. I do not plan to make any changes – 13%
  6. No answer – 2%
Get your gift certificates by calling he Valpo Chamber office at 219-462-1105. This is a great way to help the economy by helping Valpo businesses. 150 businesses accept our gift certificates. They are great gifts for teachers, graduates, birthdays, anniversaries, and to give to your favorite first responders.

I want to thank our Chamber staff for helping our businesses get through this difficult time and carrying on the work of the chamber during the previous difficult month. These outstanding and dedicated people are Julie Gaskell, Danielle Oeding, Kurt Gillins, Christine Pazdur and Sue Stymiest. They are the reason the Valpo Chamber has been recognized with numerous state, national and regional awards for outstanding achievement.

Rex G. Richards, CCE
President 

 Carol Stream Chamber: DuPage Small Business Relief Program Grant


A program to support DuPage County small businesses and independent contractors impacted by COVID-19.

In an effort to assist small businesses and independent contractors impacted by COVID-19, DuPage County in conjunction with Choose DuPage is providing grants to use for employee retention payroll, utilities,
and rent.

CRITERIA
Small businesses with fewer than 15 full-time employees and less than $1.5 million in annual revenue may apply for a grant up to $15,000.
Independent contractors with more than 50% of their annual income coming from 1099 work, and an annual income of less than $100,000 may apply for a grant up to $7,500.

Businesses and contractors that have received other funds intended for this purpose (i.e. PPP, EIDL) are not eligible.

TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THE PROGRAM, JOIN US FOR AN INFORMATIONAL WEBINAR ON FRIDAY, MAY 15 AT 11:00AM CST.
REGISTER FOR WEBINAR

Applications will be accepted online beginning Monday, May 18. For additional information, click here to visit our website.

Romeoville Chamber of Commerce:
The chamber staff is working hard for you
·     Communicating with other local and national chambers to share best practices
·     Communicating all of your deals and discounts to over 3000 connections
·     Connecting businesses with resources to help them understand their options during the pandemic
·     Preparing marketing materials on behalf of members
·     Communicating with government agencies
·     Strategizing approaches with businesses to cope with COVID-19 impacts

To learn more, visit our website!

Madison County Officials Considering Re-Opening Plan


The Madison County Board of Health, which is made up of the full Madison County Board, will meet at 5PM TUESDAY, MAY 12 to discuss a proposal to begin a responsible re-opening of Madison County businesses and other establishments that have been impacted by the state's COVID-19 shutdown.

Please contact your Madison County Board representative prior to tomorrow's 5pm meeting. This is an excellent opportunity to share your business' story, your thoughts on responsibly re-opening, and the economic impact COVID-19 is having on your organization. CLICK HERE for Madison County Board member contact information.

CLICK HERE to read news coverage of Madison County's two special meetings held last week regarding re-opening the county.

CLICK HERE to listen to audio recordings of last week's two special meetings.

CLICK HERE for a link to tune list to tomorrow's 5pm special meeting via the Twitch platform, as well as a form to provide a comment or question prior to tomorrow's 5pm meeting.

Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best Chamber Partner in the USA!

Town Square Publications, a division of the Daily Herald Media Group, is a national chamber custom publishing group that specializes in developing partnerships by producing high-quality print and digitally integrated publications along with other added value programs dedicated to creating relevancy for local chambers of commerce and other membership focused organizations interested in raising non-dues revenues.

Town Square Publications parent company, Paddock Publications, has over 100 years’ experience of print product development and dedicated customer service in communities throughout the Midwest. Our experience allows Town Square Publications to offer you attractive royalty and non-dues revenue share streams, provide direct distribution of your custom designed printed publications, including digital and mobile integration, and all with the quickest turn-around times available in the industry. Town Square also offers multi-media maps in both print and online formats, both with our No-Cost guarantee. More information: Town Square Publications

Chambers of Commerce and member focused organizations serve as a valuable resource in the local marketplace. The networking opportunities and representation with a wide variety of diverse businesses in your community is the catalyst of a successful organization. For further information about Town Square's publishing partnership with chambers of commerce and our No-Cost guarantee and Earned Revenue Share Program, To request your chamber publication or map proposal, contact Town Square Chamber Proposal or email John Dussman with the subject line: Chamber Magazine RFP Requested. Thank you!
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Friday, September 15, 2017

Chamber interest: Where Does Your State’s Legal Climate Rank? WMC launches statewide coalition supporting Foxconn legislation; Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce To Honor Outstanding Local Women Leaders at ATHENA Awards Luncheon Sept. 28 at Biltmore Country Club; Town Square Chamber Publications: Geneva Chamber: Promises made, Promises kept!; Next Level Jobs Helps Indy’s Workers Aim Higher; Hampton Roads Chamber: The Glass: Evolving the Business Woman; Leadership Lessons - Schaefer talks leadership at Wake Up! Tupelo; Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory; Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce names new president; #BestChamber practices: Batavia Chamber of Commerce: Member Testimonials posted on the front page of your website; MACP-IOM partnership: Scholarships Available!; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.; Friday: 157 Rules for Executive Success in Organization Management (and your Chamber of Commerce) by Patrick McGaughey (Chamber Mentor)

Happy Friday #Chamber World! Have a GREAT weekend!


Chamber interest: Where Does Your State’s Legal Climate Rank?



A healthy business climate needs a fair, reliable legal environment. With the United States’ “sue first, ask questions later” culture, some states are better than others.
Wonder where your state ranks? The U.S. Chamber Institute for Legal Reform (ILR) is here to help.
ILR released their 2017 Lawsuit Climate Survey: Ranking the States at the U.S. Chamber’s Small Business Summit.
The survey of senior business executives, conducted by Harris Poll, found South Dakota has the best legal climate, followed by Vermont, Idaho, Minnesota, and New Hampshire. Delaware, which held the top spot in every edition of the survey since 2002, fell to eleventh.
South Dakota made it to the top of the list by being #1 in three of ten key criteria: treatment of class action suits and mass consolidation suits; damages; and juries' fairness.
Overall, states’ legal environments are improving. More than six-in-ten of those surveyed “view the fairness and reasonableness of state court liability systems in the United States as excellent or pretty good, up from 50% in 2015 and 49% in 2012.”
“If this were a marathon, the pack of runners would be tightening, and running faster. States not keeping up on legal reform are being passed by,” said ILR President Lisa A. Rickard.
But no state should rest on their laurels. “There’s been progress, but let’s not kid ourselves—the ‘sue ‘em’ culture in the U.S. is still the world’s worst,” Rickard added.
A few states’ legal climates are so bad a “celebrity chef” had to chew them out.
Along with its survey, ILR released a series of ads putting the spotlight on three states that ranked at the bottom nationally: California; Illinois; and Louisiana. California has become a haven for out-of-state lawsuits.

Illinois--specifically Cook County (Chicago) and Madison County--also has a reputation for being a magnet for lawsuits from across the nation. Read more: U. S. Chamber

At the bottom of the list is Louisiana for its lack of impartiality from its judges a history of misconduct by attorneys and judges.




WMC launches statewide coalition supporting Foxconn legislation


Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce launched a statewide coalition to lobby on behalf of legislation for providing up to $3 billion in incentives to Foxconn Technology Group to locate in Wisconsin, and also created a website and social media campaign on behalf of the proposal.

The Wisconn Valley Jobs Coalition includes business groups, local chambers of commerce, entrepreneurs, employers and workers, WMC said Thursday. Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker’s office has dubbed the proposed massive development for tech firm Foxconn and suppliers “Wisconn Valley.”

Dozens of organizations already have registered to lobby on the Foxconn legislation, including WMC.

The coalition will advocate for funding the project with the public and policymakers, including the State Senate, WMC said. The Senate is expected to vote after Labor Day on legislation that would enable the Foxconn funding.

WMC believes Foxconn would turn Wisconsin into “the center of a new wave of high-tech manufacturing.” Making these products here “will impact the entire statewide economy and revolutionize what it means to live and work in Wisconsin’s communities with high-skill, high-paying jobs.” Read more: Biz Journals

Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce To Honor Outstanding Local Women Leaders at ATHENA Awards Luncheon Sept. 28 at Biltmore Country Club

The Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) will honor outstanding local women leaders at the 2017 ATHENA Awards Luncheon on Thursday, September 28 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. at Biltmore Country Club, 160 Biltmore Dr.  in North Barrington.  The event is hosted by BACC’s Women’s Biz Net (WBN), a network of women business and community leaders.
“The ATHENA Award was created in 1982 to illuminate inspiring women leaders that excel in their profession, give back to their communities, and most importantly, are a role model to other women,” said BACC President/CEO Suzanne Corr.
Outstanding local women who have been nominated for the 2017 BACC/WBN ATHENA Award include: Mary Beth Brend, Manager of Clinical Nursing Operations at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital; Dr. Denise Casey, Founder and Director of Barrington Behavioral Health and Wellness; and Chrissie Newton Mena, Founder and President of Living60010 Media Inc.
A registered nurse for 30 years, Mary Beth Brend is Manager of Clinical Nursing Operations at Good Shepherd Hospital, 450 W. Highway 22 in Barrington. She draws on her experience in orthopedic, pediatric, medical/surgical and NICU nursing, as well as her work as a Hospital Supervisor, to oversee 150 employees in six patient care departments, mentoring each of them in a kind, confident and open-minded manner. She chooses to serve as an off-shift nursing supervisor so she can personally connect with her night-shift associates, and makes a point to touch base with all her employees while rounding, to offer support, guidance and encouragement. Brend has led her associates’ Shared Governance Nursing Committee in efforts that have resulted in hospital-wide changes, awards, and opportunities to present at an Advocate Research Symposium and a National Nursing Magnet Conference. While pursuing her Masters in Nursing Leadership at Benedictine University, she is also active in her church teaching Sunday school and assisting with confirmation classes. Brend says her faith gives her strength to care for her four children with husband Ken, as well as those at work. Her compassionate mentoring and servant leadership style extends beyond the workplace. Brend recently held a fundraiser at her home and invited all of Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital to help pay medical bills for her associate’s child who has severe medical issues.
Dr. Denise Casey is the founder and director of Barrington Behavioral Health and Wellness (BBHW), 400 E. Main St., Suite 100, in Barrington. She maintains the business, marketing, and management of services and staff, as well as her own client caseload. BBHW has two locations that provide in-office and home-based therapeutic services throughout the county for seniors and those with disabilities. Dr. Casey also facilitates support groups in the community, addressing issues such as divorce recovery, anger management and parents of substance users, and often provides educational seminars pro bono on self care, stress management, work wellness and more. She intentionally collaborates, instead of competing, with other service providers and regularly participates in local charity events, fundraisers and community awareness events. BBHW hosted a two-year crises text hotline for teens, to decrease suicide and increase support and therapist referrals within the community. Dr. Casey also created a Practice Management group for private practitioners in neighboring counties to provide ongoing education, mutual support and idea sharing, and volunteers her time to offer pet therapy for seniors with dementia. She mentors clinicians in need of clinical supervision hours and provides one-on-one supervision and encouragement to her staff. Her volunteer work includes the Wellness Within Project at Good Shepherd Hospital, as well as the Take a Stand drug awareness and prevention program.
Chrissie Newton Mena is founder and president of Living60010 Media Inc., an online resource for the communities in the 60010 zip code, that is designed to support local businesses and connect residents to opportunities in the area. She has pioneered new businesses in the field of commercial interiors and served as a consultant to businesses and start-ups. Mena’s compassion and energy flows into her volunteer work for WINGS (Women In Need Growing Stronger), as she chairs fundraisers and serves on the WINGS Metro Leadership Board. She is also currently President of the Barrington Noon Rotary Club, a Director on the Board of the Barrington Area Community Foundation, and has chaired the JourneyCare Gala Committee. A passionate mentor to her children, interns, and employees, Mena recently secured the first Chicago suburban location for StartUp Grind, an organization sponsored by Google for Entrepreneurs, to inspire and support future entrepreneurs.
ATHENA, an international award, has been given in 500 cities and 8 countries. Recipients have included Condoleezza Rice, former Secretary of State; Kay Koplovitz, founder of USA Networks and the first women network president in television history; Pat Schroeder, former 12-term U.S. Congresswoman; Ruth Bader Ginsburg, U.S. Supreme Court Justice, and others.

The Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce’s Women’s Biz Net (WBN) is a network of women empowering women. WBN offers monthly meetings and programs that bring relevant topics, networking opportunities and a forum for building relationships that can enhance your business aspirations and enrich your life. The monthly meetings are dedicated “To gather professional women to inspire, enrich, empower and benefit from the unique talents of extraordinary women!”
For more information, contact BACC President Suzanne Corr, 847-381-2525 or Suzanne@barringtonchamber.com

Town Square Chamber Publications: Geneva Chamber: Promises made, Promises kept!

The Geneva Chamber of Commerce has worked with Town Square Publications on several publications. Chamber maps and community profiles are well done and we are especially pleased with the quality of the printing and the paper.

Production schedules were provided when we began the projects and the schedule did not waiver from our agreement. Most importantly we had editorial control over the copy and we were able to select the photos and the subjects that are featured. We were able to proof before going to print but we rarely found errors or concerns. Communications throughout the production period were excellent.

We work hard to provide quality and outstanding service to our members. We identify programs that will be good for the business community with an additional benefit – some non-dues income for the Chamber.

We appreciate our partnership with Town Square and will call on them again for the next project.

Jean Gaines
President 
Geneva Chamber of Commerce



Next Level Jobs Helps Indy’s Workers Aim Higher


There’s no denying Indy’s economic momentum.  Metro unemployment is trending below the state and nation, and the nine-county region continues to earn the confidence of growing companies:  The Indy Partnership reports 65 successful relocation and expansion projects through July – 17 more deals than the first seven months of 2016 – attracting more than 8,000 new jobs (up 60% from ‘16) and $850M in new investment (more than double last year).
But there’s a challenge behind the thousands of job commitments.  Many local workers are unprepared to take advantage of a higher-skill job market; at the same time, employers in industries like manufacturing, health and life sciences and technology struggle to find much-needed qualified workers. 
The Indy Chamber’s legislative agenda has made education and training a priority, because upward mobility and economic growth rely on a job-ready workforce – every post-secondary credential earned here means a bigger paycheck and a stronger business climate.  
That’s why the Chamber endorsed and advocated for the program recently introduced by Governor Holcomb as ‘Next Level Jobs.’
 What’s Next Level Jobs?
Next Level Jobs encourages working-age Hoosiers to enroll at no cost in more than a hundred programs at Ivy Tech Community College or Vincennes University that prepare them for high-demand careers in some of the state’s fastest-growing industries – manufacturing, health and life sciences, and technology (the sectors making Indy a metro leader in ‘advanced industry’ job creation, according to the Brookings Institution) along with logistics, business services and construction. 
Interested applicants – any resident with only a high school degree or some college willing to commit to a certificate program – start by registering and answering a few questions that match their interests to sought-after skills and occupations at NextLevelJobs.org.  (The state also offers support and resources for those interested in careers outside of these high-growth areas, at www.LearnMoreIndiana.org.)
Tuition for these adult learners will be paid through Indiana’s ‘Workforce Ready’ grants program, passed by the General Assembly earlier this year; the Indy Chamber supported this funding as part of our workforce development agenda. 
“Indiana’s unemployment rate has reached historic lows, and we currently have about 95,000 job openings around the state. Now more than ever, our state needs to ramp up efforts to prepare Hoosiers for the jobs available today—and for the one million more we expect over the next decade,” Holcomb said in rolling out the program in August. “Next Level Jobs will drive our efforts to meet that demand and will put hardworking Hoosiers in high-need, high-wage careers.”
Growing employers in the same sectors can apply for a companion grant that helps offset their costs for training new employees in these fields.  This Employer Training Grant program will provide up to $2,500 per new employee to qualifying companies that train and retain new hires.  DWD will launch a pilot of the grant for 2018 and 2019, paid for with $10 million in Career and Technical Education Innovation and Advancement Funds. Businesses can also get more details and apply at NextLevelJobs.org.
 Indy’s Next Level
Almost 640,000 adults in the Indy Region (roughly half our workforce) has a high school diploma or some college but no degree – making them eligible for Next Level Jobs.  By 2024, the region will need to fill more than 350,000 job openings to keep up with new growth, retirements and replacements.  Most of these positions will require training beyond high school (including 70% of the advanced industry positions that are at the core of our top economic development strategy).
“A strong economy is driven by a strong, skilled workforce,” noted Mark Fisher, the Indy Chamber’s Chief Policy Officer.  “That’s why we’ve advocated for education and workforce investments from the very earliest pre-K learning opportunities to incumbent worker training – Next Level Jobs helps strengthen this skilled talent pipeline.”
 Rethinking Economic Development
“Human capital is the heart of Accelerate Indy,” added Fisher, referencing the Indy Chamber’s regional economic strategy unveiled a year ago.  “We need a strategy that attracts new workers to the region, but also invests in homegrown talent.”
Fisher explained that career-focused training was an important part of a blueprint for a growing, inclusive economy that allowed people and employers opportunities for success. Read more: Indy Chamber


Hampton Roads Chamber: The Glass: Evolving the Business Woman

Norfolk, VA–How do successful women in the community maintain the work-life balance? How can we, as a community, shatter the glass ceiling in Hampton Roads?  Join the Hampton Roads Chamber for The Glass: Evolving the Business Woman, A Women's Business Conference on September 28th at the Harbor Club at Waterside District.   As an impactful advocate, inspiring ignitor, and powerful economic partner the Hampton Roads Chamber is committed to the advancement of our local female leaders. The Glass: Evolving the Business Woman will feature keynote speaker Susan Jacobs, Vice President of Human Resources & Administration, Newport News Shipbuilding - Huntington Ingalls Industries.

In addition to the networking and enrichment opportunities, The Glass will also include breakout sessions on "Women and Wealth," "Upping Your Brand," and "Health and Wellness for Success," and a panel discussion featuring  
·         Gina Sorrells, Market Executive, Merrill Lynch Wealth Management
·          Julia Rust, Attorney at Pierce McCoy and Chair of tHRive
·         Rhonda Bridgeman, President, Comfort Systems of Virginia, Inc.
·         Toiya Sosa, Regional Public Affairs/Community Relations, GEICO;
·         Jeri Prophet, Founder and CEO, IntellecTechs, Inc.
The Glass: Evolving the Business Woman
Date:  Thursday, September 28
Time:  9:30am-2:00pm
            1:00-Keynote address
Location: The Harbor Club at Waterside District
333 Waterside Drive
Norfolk VA 23510
Day of Contact: Priscilla Monti pmonti@hrchamber.com 757-470-6805

Leadership Lessons - Schaefer talks leadership at Wake Up! Tupelo

After a record season that led the Mississippi State University women's basketball team to the NCAA Final Four, head coach Vic Schaefer has plenty of leadership advice to share both on and off the court.
Schaefer spoke to Tupelo Community Development Foundation members and others about leadership at the September Wake Up! Tupelo event Friday morning at the Elvis Presley Birthplace.
It turns out, according to Schaefer, that leadership in basketball is the same as leadership in the workplace.
Schaefer spoke about how he manages his team, and encouraged business leaders to apply the same principles to their work.
“It’s not what we do, but how we do it that separates us from the rest of the country,” Schaefer said. “I think that’s something that you’ve got to do is ask what’s going to set us apart?”
Those things include recruiting quality employees, retaining them and finally, helping them reach their full potential.
Schaefer stressed the importance of building good relationships with his players.
“Probably the single most important thing that’s helped me in my career is, ‘If they don’t like you, they’re not going to play hard for you,’” Schaefer said. “They have to know you care about them. If they know you care about them, people will go to the ends of the Earth for you – they’ll give you everything they have.”Part of being a successful leader, Schaefer said, is also building up new leaders.
As a coach, Schaefer encourages his players to get out of their comfort zones, to work hard and to serve others.
“Community service is a very important part of our program,” Schaefer said. “We try to encourage our kids to do that. That’s having a servant’s heart, and you have to serve before leading.”
Of course, Schaefer also spent some time Friday morning reflecting on last season’s championship run and the success he’s had during his six-season tenure at MSU.
Schaefer came to MSU in 2012, inheriting a team that had just finished its season with a 14-16 record.
He said he gets asked all the time how he’s built a strong program in such a short amount of time. He credits his team, the university community and most of all, his players.
“I don’t believe they (fans) just woke up and became women’s basketball fans, I believe they fell in love with my girls,” Schaefer said. Read more: Daily Journal


Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory  

The Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Guide & Business Directory   is available at the Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to Krisann Durnford and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together! 




Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory


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



Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce names new president


Brent Cooper, a successful entrepreneur and small business owner who for years has been an active and engaged leader in the regional business community, has been named the sixth president and CEO of the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce.

Cooper, 47, has led Covington-based C-Forward Information Technologies since he founded the company at age 29 and has twice served as Chamber interim president. He was chosen following a thorough vetting and interview process of numerous outstanding candidates managed by the Cincinnati executive search firm Centennial Inc.

“I am honored, humbled and grateful to be selected to lead an organization that I admire and that has been a part of my life for years,” Cooper said. “I know from experience that the Chamber is a successful, committed and tireless advocate for the business community.

“As we look forward to the Chamber celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2019, I stand ready to provide the same type of focused and engaged leadership that has been the hallmark of past Chamber presidents,” Cooper said.

Cooper will maintain ownership in C-Forward but has turned over day-to-day operations to his management team.

The Executive Search Committee selected a national search firm, Centennial, to lead the committee and board through a thorough, efficient and effective process for this critical leadership position. Centennial’s “4C Recruiting Process” ensures alignment of stakeholders in a very effective and thorough way. This included extensive evaluation of character, culture, chemistry and competency. Centennial is known for their detail orientation, deep network and national executive search experience which led us to the right leader for the Northern Kentucky Chamber. Read more: Lane Report

#BestChamber practices: Batavia Chamber of Commerce: Member Testimonials posted on the front page of your website

I am so thankful that a few of my fellow Batavian’s recommended the Batavia Chamber of Commerce to me.   Since I joined I feel as though I have been blessed with a second family with all the support and motivation I get from them on a regular basis.  Holly, Lindsey and Margaret are the most amazing women.  They have great passion for business and helping people. I truly feel they care about my business on a personal level and want to see it grow and succeed as much as I do!  They have gone the extra mile to get my name and my business name out there and introduce me to the business community.  The Chamber has so many opportunities available that have helped my business both grow and problem solve such as the free monthly Networking It events and the Home-Based Mastermind Group.  I highly recommend the Batavia Chamber of Commerce to all business professionals.
Jessica McGrail, Owner, Dollar and Sense Bookkeeping, Inc.


MACP-IOM partnership: Scholarships Available!

MACP is proud to partner with Institute for Organization Management, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation's professional development program for chamber executives, and offer two $500 partial tuition scholarships to one of Institute's 2018 sites. The two scholarships, available to our members, will be awarded to students attending Institute for the first time to assist with enrollment fees and cannot be combined with any other Institute scholarships.

About Institute:
For over 95 years, Institute has educated association, chamber, and other nonprofit leaders across the country through its national program, highly rated curriculum and high caliber instructors. Thousands of executives have attended Institute sites across the country to strengthen their management skills, learn industry best practices, and gain a broad national perspective from peers. Institute has helped them build stronger organizations, become stronger business advocates and better serve their members. In addition, you will earn points towards your CCE or CAE certification as Institute's curriculum is directly tied to the bodies of knowledge of both the American Society of Association Executives and the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.

Upon completion of the Institute program, graduates receive the IOM recognition which allows them to use the letters "IOM" in public mention and professional correspondence. The IOM recognition signifies the completion of 96 hours of course instruction in nonprofit management and commitment to the industry.

Apply Today!

If you are interested in this scholarship opportunity, fill out the application by October 16th.
Early registration deadline for Winter Institute is November 17th.


For more information about Institute's curriculum, sites, and dates, visit the Institute Web site and Prospective Student Toolkit to help you gain insight into the program. Source: MACP

Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps 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

Friday: 157 Rules for Executive Success in Organization Management (and your Chamber of Commerce) by Patrick McGaughey (Chamber Mentor)

RULE #82 - Articulate the importance of vision and mission
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