Hampton Roads Chamber 2018 Diversity in Business Forum; #BestChamber practices: Joliet Chamber 2018 Member Luncheon April 30th Legislative Update; South Suburban Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory; United Collection Bureau’s new call center in southern Indiana to create 600 jobs; Saginaw Chamber of Commerce talks about need for skilled workers; 500 high school seniors recognized at Hancock Chamber Recognition Breakfast; Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Map; Three Bazaar After Dark Night Markets Announced for 2018; NKY Chamber Legislative Update; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.

Good morning #Chamber World! It's going to be a GREAT day!
Hampton Roads Chamber 2018 Diversity in Business Forum


Sheraton Norfolk Waterside
April 24, 2018
10:30 am to 1:30 pm
The Hampton Roads Chamber is opening the dialogue on diversity this year to help set the conditions for all in the business community to succeed. We are hopeful the forum discussion will guide the Chamber on finding solutions to the issues, challenges and concerns of minorities in our business community and how to better implement inclusive hiring practices and create opportunities for workforce diversity throughout the region. The Hampton Roads Chamber Means Business.

We will focus the discussion on two areas: (a) opportunities and challenges for the minority small business owner and entrepreneur (b) opportunities and challenges for a minority climbing the corporate ladder

Participants in the Diversity in Business Forum are all top-level leaders:

a. Keynote speaker: Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax is only the second African American elected to statewide office in Virginia. He is also a small business owner.

b. Welcome speaker: Norfolk Mayor Kenneth Cooper Alexander is the first African American elected to serve as Mayor of Norfolk. He is also a small business owner.

c. Moderator: Barbara Hamm Lee is the Executive Producer and Host of Another View, a weekly call in radio talk show that “discusses today’s issues from an African American perspective”. She is also the owner of Sharing Info, llc.

d. Panelists:

·Gilbert Bland, President and Chairman, The Urban League of Hampton Roads

·Dr. Johnny Garcia, Founder and CEO, SimIS

·Dianne Greene, Division Vice President and General Manager, ADP Norfolk

 James White, Regional Director, Safelite AutoGlass and Hampton Roads Chamber Vice-Chair for   Diversity

Rundown for the day:

10:30 am – 11:00 am networking and registration
11:00 am – 11:10 am Welcome remarks by Bryan Stephens and Mayor Kenneth Cooper Alexander
11:10 am – 12:10 pm panel discussion moderated by Barbara Hamm Lee

12:30 pm – 1:15 pm keynote address with Lieutenant Governor Justin Fairfax

#BestChamber practices: Joliet Chamber 2018 Member Luncheon April 30th Legislative Update

Name: 2018 Member Luncheon April 30th Legislative Update
Date: April 30, 2018
Time: 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM CDT
Register Now

Event Description:
Four state issues will be addressed by 8 invited Senators and Representatives. Each issues will be addressed by one legislator from each side of the aisle. Invited guests include: Senator Bertino-Tarrant, Senator McGuire, Senator Rezin, Representative Manley, Representative Walsh Jr., Representative Welter, Representative McDermed, and Representative Batinick.

Payment due with registration. Tables of 10 available. Reservations are required.

Location:
Mistwood Golf Club
1700 W. Renwick Road
Romeoville, IL 60446

Contact Information:
Kelly Baltas
Send an Email

Fees/Admission:
Chamber Members: $35.00
Non-Members: $45.00




South Suburban  Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory  

The Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2018 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! 

South Suburban Chamber 2018 Community and Visitor Guide

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


United Collection Bureau’s new call center in southern Indiana to create 600 jobs

United Collection Bureau, Inc., will lease space in southern Indiana for a new business process outsourcing and collection call center in the River Ridge Commerce Center, One Southern Indiana (1si), the chamber of commerce and economic development organization for Clark and Floyd counties, Ind., announced today.

UCB, headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, intends to lease space at 200 Patrol Road, Jeffersonville, Ind. The location was chosen by company officials after an analysis narrowed the scope down to four states: Georgia, Indiana Kentucky and South Carolina. The $2.48 million project will create more than 600 new positions, with an average wage of $18.22 per hour by 2022.

“We considered various sites for our new business process outsourcing and collection call center and found Jeffersonville, Ind., to be the location to best suit our current needs. This space will allow us to better serve our clients,” said Chief Operating Officer Michael Karosas. “My thanks to the State of Indiana and One Southern Indiana for their assistance in helping UCB find this new facility location. We look forward to becoming an active member of the Southern Indiana business community.”

The Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC) board of directors offered United Collection Bureau up to $3.5 million in conditional tax credits based on the company’s job creation plans, and up to $150,000 in training grants. These incentives are performance-based, meaning until Indiana residents are hired, the company is not eligible to claim incentives. The company’s location also affords it the opportunity to apply for benefits through River Ridge Commerce Center’s Urban Enterprise Zone.

“We’re excited to welcome UCB to Indiana and grateful for the good jobs they’ll create for Hoosiers,” Gov. Eric J. Holcomb said. “Companies like UCB continue to take advantage of our pro-growth business environment and skilled workforce. As a state, we’ll continue to equip businesses with the tools and stability they need for success today, tomorrow and in the years ahead.”

“We are thrilled to welcome United Collection Bureau, Inc., to our business community,” said 1si CEO and President Wendy Dant Chesser. “UCB is bringing more than 600 new jobs and paying wages higher than the Clark County average. This benefits our region not only in increased commerce, but also because they will be utilizing unoccupied space efficiently by moving into an existing building. One Southern Indiana stands ready to assist company leaders in achieving their immediate and future goals.” Read more: Lane Report




Saginaw Chamber of Commerce talks about need for skilled workers

SAGINAW, Mich. – Perhaps you've heard about the skills gap that exists in Michigan and other parts of the country.

Jobs are available, but people don't have the skills to fill them.

A new report says that trend may be eased by the trend toward delayed retirement.

One problem is there's not a set retirement age.

For some it's 65, but other workers are staying in the workforce for a longer period of time.

The head of Michigan Works, Great Lakes Bay Region gave an overview of the current labor market in a presentation to the Saginaw Chamber of Commerce today.

Ed Oberski says more people are leaving the work force, than entering it.

He says there are hundreds of jobs available in the Great Lakes Bay Region, but in many cases employers can't find qualified people.

He has advice for employers on what they can do.

"The best advice is to, if you need a person right now, lower your sights a little bit, hire a little less and train up, that's the best strategy,” Oberski said.

Oberski also says Michigan Works is free and it can help both employers and those looking for a job.

Many of those good jobs are posted on the Facebook page of Michigan Works, Great Lakes Bay Region.

Also through Pure Michigan Talent Connect. Read more: NBC 25 News

500 high school seniors recognized at Hancock Chamber Recognition Breakfast

Tuesday marked another celebration of academic excellence on the Coast.

More than 500 graduating high school seniors throughout Hancock County were recognized by the Hancock Chamber Education Committee on April 17 at the 6th Annual Hancock Chamber Recognition Breakfast.

The event was held at the Bay St. Louis Community Hall. Mississippi’s First Lady Deborah Bryant was the keynote speaker at the breakfast.

Community leaders and government officials were also on hand at this morning’s breakfast to extend their congratulations to graduating classes of Bay High School, Hancock High School, Our Lady Academy and St. Stanislaus.

“The programs the Hancock Chamber Education Committee supports are critical to educational outcomes to ensure that our teachers and students have the resources, support, and encouragement they need to reach their highest potential,” Chairperson Raymunda Barnes said.

Each May, scholarships are awarded to one deserving High School Senior at each high school for outstanding character, respect for peers and faculty, and academic excellence. Read more: WLOX TV


Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Map


The new Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Map is available at the Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber today! Thanks to Bob O'Callaghan and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!



Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber 2017 Community Map


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.

Three Bazaar After Dark Night Markets Announced for 2018
APPLETON, Wis. (April 18, 2018) – Pulse Young Professionals Network, a program of the Fox Cities Chamber, is thrilled to announce that Bazaar After Dark, the Fox Cities inclusive and eccentric night market, will return for three separate events in 2018. Bazaar After Dark is dedicated to revitalizing and drawing positive attention to underutilized business districts in the Fox Valley, while fostering community collaborations through art, music and common experiences.
The first night market event of 2018 is scheduled for Saturday, April 28 from 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. in downtown Little Chute. The event will occur on Main Street from Monroe Street to Wilson Street. This event will conclude YPWeek 2018, a statewide initiative providing a platform for discovery, adventure and meaningful conversations about the issues that matter among young professionals in Wisconsin. Learn more about Bazaar After Dark Little Chute at http://pulsefoxcities.com/bazaar-after-dark/ or stay up-to-date by visiting the event Facebook page at http://bit.ly/BADlittlechute. The Little Chute event is made possible by the support of many organizations, especially Premier Sponsors: Fox Communities Credit Union and the Village of Little Chute; Mural Sponsor Capital Credit Union; and In-Kind Sponsors: Event Production Systems, Sherwin-Williams, Stone Arch Brewpub and Urban Evolutions, Inc.
The summer night market will make its Neenah debut on South Commercial Street between Alcott and Wright Streets on Thursday, July 19 from 5:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Bazaar After Dark will return to Main Street in Downtown Menasha for its third event of 2018. The final night market is scheduled for Wednesday, September 12 from 5:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Bazaar After Dark is an inclusive, family-friendly street market event. Attendees can expect to enjoy fresh food, live art, local business participation, live music and a pet-welcoming atmosphere many have grown to appreciate at the past Bazaar After Dark events.
Pulse continues to partner with Habitat for Humanity to support their Rock the Block program by purposefully selecting commercial districts for Bazaar After Dark night markets that coincide with neighborhood revitalization, which allows for a celebration of Habitat’s hard-working volunteers.
Interested Bazaar After Dark vendors, artists, sponsors and volunteers can find more information at http://pulsefoxcities.com/bazaar-after-dark/. Vendor applications for the Neenah and Menasha Bazaar After Dark night markets will open on May 1. For information contact: Nikki Hessel Director, Pulse Young Professionals Network - nhessel@foxcitieschamber.com

NKY Chamber Legislative Update 


April 13-14, Legislative Day 59 and 60

The General Assembly has completed their work for the 2018 Legislative Session, adjourning sine die as of Saturday, April 14th. The main focus of the work completed in the final two days was to override the Governor’s vetoes on several critical bills.

The Governor vetoed three extremely important bills passed by the General Assembly in the Session on Monday, April 9 at a press conference in the Capitol. Those three bills include the Executive Branch budget (HB 200), the revenue/tax revenue bill (HB 366) and the pension phase-in for CERS and opt-out for KERS (HB 362).

The House and Senate voted to override all three of those vetoes in the final two days of the Session.

The NKY Chamber supports the legislature overriding the Governor’s vetoes for those three bills.

HB 366 (REVENUE/TAX REFORM)

The House and Senate voted to override the Governor’s veto on HB 366 on Friday. The House voted to override 57-40, while the Senate voted to override 20-18. All NKY Republican House members vote to override the veto, while the two NKY Democrats did not support. On the Senate side, Sen. Schickel was the only NKY Senator to not support overriding the Governor’s veto. The House needed 51 votes to override, while the Senate needed 20 votes.

On Saturday, the Senate and House passed HB 487 with a committee substitute containing language with provisions to make additional changes to Kentucky’s tax code that will be coupled with the tax reforms made in House Bill 366, the revenue bill that will go into law after the House and Senate voted to override the governor’s veto on Friday. Read more: NKY Chamber

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

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

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

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

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

Frank J. Kenny - Final Days for Free Viewing of The Chamber Roadmap to Social Media Success; Chamber Executive Ongoing Education: If you read one book this spring, make it this: Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less; Junior Achievement of Northern Indiana and The Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce team up; Logan County Chamber first Wine & Food Festival finds home in Auburn; Editorial: Show up, seize opportunity for South Lansing; United Way presents workshop on building successful workforce; PR Powerhouse, Megan Megale to Speak at Prince William Chamber of Commerce’s Women’s Luncheon; Round Lake Chamber of Commerce throws block party for community; OUR OPINION: We must dispel stigma surrounding skilled jobs; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.

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


Frank J. Kenny - Free Viewing of The Chamber Roadmap to Social Media Success
Frank J. KennyChamber Pros 

For the past 7 years, we have been helping Chambers and Chamber Professionals reach their goals. Our services include:

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Our specialties include helping chambers implement programs and services, especially those related to social media, content marketing, digital marketing, and technology.

www.FrankJKenny.com

Frank J. Kenny - Final Days for Free Viewing of The Chamber Roadmap to Social Media Success
Frank J. KennyChamber Pros 

Chamber Executive Ongoing Education: If you read one book this spring, make it this: Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less

Have you ever found yourself stretched too thin?
Do you sometimes feel overworked and underutilized?
Do you feel motion sickness instead of momentum?
Does your day sometimes get hijacked by someone else’s agenda?
Have you ever said “yes” simply to please and then resented it?

If you answered yes to any of these, the way out is the Way of the Essentialist.

The Way of the Essentialist involves doing less, but better, so you can make the highest possible contribution.

The Way of the Essentialist isn’t about getting more done in less time. It’s not about getting less done. It’s about getting only the right things done. It’s about challenging the core assumption of ‘we can have it all’ and ‘I have to do everything’ and replacing it with the pursuit of ‘the right thing, in the right way, at the right time’. It’s about regaining control of our own choices about where to spend our time and energies instead of giving others implicit permission to choose for us.

In Essentialism, Greg McKeown draws on experience and insight from working with the leaders of the most innovative companies in the world to show how to achieve the disciplined pursuit of less.

By applying a more selective criteria for what is essential, the pursuit of less allows us to regain control of our own choices so we can channel our time, energy and effort into making the highest possible contribution toward the goals and activities that matter.

Essentialism isn’t one more thing; it is a different way of doing everything. It is a discipline you apply constantly, effortlessly. Essentialism is a mindset; a way of life. It is an idea whose time has come. More information: Your local bookseller.

Junior Achievement of Northern Indiana and The Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce team up 

Junior Achievement of Northern Indiana and The Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce teamed up to present the first JA CHAMBERTOWN adventure to over 550 students at Pierce Middle School. This town could only exist with the help of over 55 business professionals, who volunteered at a mock town where students had the opportunity to experience what it was like to shop on a budget! Special thank you to the debit card sponsor Centier Bank and to the street sign sponsors; Chick-fil-A Merrillville, Indiana Wesleyan University, Oak Partners, Inc., Bosak Motors, Brain Balance Centers (Valparaiso, IN), Barbara Jean's Gifts and Gourmet, First Midwest Bank (7900 Broadway, Merrillville, IN), Peoples Bank, PSI Services, and Rosatis Pizza (Crown Point).

Contact: Lee Hartsell, Office Manager, Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce, 219.769.8180,

Logan County Chamber first Wine & Food Festival finds home in Auburn

The Logan County Chamber of Commerce has found a home for the first annual Wine & Food Festival.

According to Karen Logan, Executive Director of the Chamber, the Auburn City Council and Mayor Mike Hughes have graciously allowed the event to be held on the square in Auburn.

"When they first contacted me about the event I brought it before the council," said mayor Hughes. "They thought it was a great opprotunity for Auburn and will open up our city to vistors from all over. I think the Chamber has a good plan for the execution of this event."

The Chamber first went to the Logan County Fiscal Court to ask for the event to be held on the historic courthouse lawn, however, the idea drew little support and at least three of the magistrates said they would not vote in favor of drinking on the county's property.

Despite the Chamber not pushing the plea, the county's court unanimously voted to prohibit alcohol use at the courthouse a few weeks later.

"I can't see promoting alcohol on county property," said magistrate Dickie Carter.

The Wine & Food Festival will be part of the annual Tobacco & Heritage Festival and will be held Saturday, Sept. 29 from 5-9 p.m.

Don Davis, owner-operator of Carriage House Vineyards in Auburn is partnering with the Chamber to organize the event.

"I really think this will draw a lot of people," said Davis who plans on inviting 10 other wineries to join. "There are no festivals like this in this part of the state. We will draw people from everywhere."

Davis explained the event and how he felt the festival would bring in a good deal of tourism.

"This would be a closed event. Participants would have to pay an admissions fee. They would then receive a series of coupons each good for a sample of wine," said Davis.

Bottled wine will be sold at the event and given when the participants leave. Davis said armbands would be given to participants when they showed their IDs.

"There will be several food trucks. Food and wine go together," Davis said.

Logan is excited about adding this event to the Tobacco & Heritage Festival.

"We want the county as a whole to be involved in the Tobacco & Heritage Festival. We have events that take place throughout the county during this time. Having this event in Auburn adds to the many wonderful events of the festival. With Carriage House Vineyards being located here, it just makes sense," said Logan who thanks the Auburn City Council and its mayor for supporting the event. Read more: News-Democrat & Leader

Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce 2017-2018 Community Guide & Membership Directory

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

Oxford Mississippi 2017-2018 Community Guide & Membership Directory

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

Editorial: Show up, seize opportunity for South Lansing

Residents, business owners and other community members should be concerned about what will happen to their South Lansing neighborhood when McLaren Greater Lansing vacates its two buildings in 2021 in favor of a new $450 million hospital closer to MSU’s campus.

Change of this magnitude is seldom easy; the two buildings – the 712,000-square-foot building on Greenlawn Avenue and nearby 322,000-square-foot facility on Pennsylvania Avenue – have long been considered central parts of the community. The hospital has had a presence in that neighborhood since 1930.

However, if the project is done correctly, it will be a great opportunity for South Lansing.

An LSJ editorial in December called McLaren’s plan for a new hospital “a great move for Greater Lansing.” Among the benefits: more competitive employment opportunities and cutting edge partnerships that promise to elevate the quality of care.

But the new development works only if promises are kept, and if new opportunities are created and seized by the people of South Lansing.

McLaren Greater Lansing will stay in South Lansing, moving just four miles down the road to the east. What, if anything, goes into the buildings will impact the hospital, as well as determine the neighborhood’s future.

Hospital leadership has promised robust collaboration with all stakeholders – and to not leave their neighbors behind.

“We’re going to have the best interest of the community at heart,” said Casey Kandow, the interim CEO/COO of McLaren Greater Lansing. “We’re not going to be abandoning these buildings and have blight take over. We’re confident we can repurpose them.”

City leadership, the Lansing Economic Area Partnership and Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce promise to identify and pitch partners in the medical community – including research, manufacturing and technology – who might be interested in redeveloping, or possibly utilizing the space as is.

South Lansing is changing. The Lansing Board of Water and Light, General Motors Co. and others continue to develop the corridor leading into the area from downtown in a positive way – however some of these changes have happened quickly and caused some to feel left behind. Read more: Lansing State Journal

United Way presents workshop on building successful workforce

United Way St. Croix Valley will present "A Strong Workforce Today and Tomorrow: Healthy Children, Thriving Communities" from 7:30-10 a.m. Thursday, April 19, at WITC-New Richmond. Discover how building a successful workforce in the St. Croix Valley begins with investment in early childhood and family-friendly workplaces.

Keynote speaker Rob Grunewald, an economist with the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, will discuss the economic benefits to our community of investing in quality early childhood programs and how businesses especially benefit from this investment. 

Grunewald conducts research on community development and regional economic issues. He co-authored "Early Childhood Development: Economic Development with a High Public Return" in 2003 and has written several subsequent articles on the economic and social impact of early learning. He frequently speaks to community and business leaders, policymakers and media throughout the United States.

Grunewald's talk will be followed by a panel discussion featuring the leaders of several family-friendly workplaces, including: Ryan Cari, partner at Heywood, Cari & Anderson, S.C.; Alison Page, CEO of Western Wisconsin Health; Mark Stoering, president, Xcel Energy-Wisconsin and Michigan; and Mark Tyler, president of OEM Fabricators, chair of the Governor's Council on Workforce Investment, and member of the Governor's Early Childhood Advisory Council.

The panel will be moderated by Blake Frye, president of the Hudson Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau. The panel will discuss the advantages to family-friendly workplaces in recruiting and retaining quality employees in the midst of a workforce shortage and how these policies can improve overall productivity. Read more: New Richmond Times

Front Royal Warren County Community Profile & Membership Directory 2017 

The Front Royal Warren County Community Profile & Membership Directory 2017 is available at the Front Royal Warren County Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to Niki Foster and Pam Riffle and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together! 

Front Royal Warren County Community Profile & Membership Directory 2017

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.

PR Powerhouse, Megan Megale to Speak at Prince William Chamber of Commerce’s Women’s Luncheon

On Wednesday, May 23rd from 11:00am to 2:00 pm the Prince William Chamber of Commerce will host a Women’s Luncheon featuring PR Powerhouse, Megan Megale.

Megale began her career working for Johnson and Johnson, selling a laser scalpel for open heart surgery, and transitioned into the Biotech world, working for the exclusive Genzyme Genetics.  After 22 years in the medical field, she was presented with the most important client of her career.​

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A mother of three, Megan’s youngest daughter was born with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, a debilitating neuromuscular disorder, confining her to a wheelchair. After finding a sketchbook her daughter Shea had written in, six stories emerged about her assistance dog Mercer. Megan seized the opportunity and capitalized on it, forging partnerships with Amazon, Target and Build a Bear.  Utilizing all of her marketing, branding, and business skills Megan built a multi-million dollar entity.​

Realizing her expertise in putting all the puzzle pieces together, Megan started Megale Public Relations. Her success is driven by persistence.  She has an acute understanding of the power of social networking and marketing, both in the selling and the positioning of the idea.​​

Currently the President and Managing Director of Megale Public Relations, Megan oversees the direction of the firm and the strategy.  A creative, edgy thinker, her greatest asset is developing accounts to ensure they reach their maximum capacity in both media placement and revenue streams, masterfully marrying the two. Magale Public Relations represents a variety of high profile clients such as Mike Tyson, the U.S. Open and Devon Choice from “The Voice”, Locally the firm represents Poplar Springs Inn & Spa located in Casanova, VA.  Megan embraces the challenge of a brand in need of taking an unexpected path, and is known to introduce ideas never considered.  ​

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Megan lends her expertise to a multitude of endeavors.  She is a frequent lecturer at NYU and proudly holds a Family Board position at Columbia Presbyterian Children's Hospital in New York City.

The Women’s Luncheon is being held at the Hylton Performing Arts Center located at 10900 University Blvd in Manassas.  Attendance is $50 to attend for members and $60 for non-members.  Visit the Chamber’s website at www.pwchamber.org or RSVP.

Round Lake Chamber of Commerce throws block party for community

For some, six hours might not have been enough to enjoy all that was available Saturday at the Round Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Community Block Party Expo and Craft Fair at the sports center in Round Lake Beach.

Besides the numerous businesses, craft and food booths (and a wings eating contest), kids could see an exotic animal show when they weren't playing in the jump house or the Meltdown Game. Also on hand to meet the younger visitors were the Polynesian Princess from Disney's "Moana," and Spidey from the Marvel comic book series.

And because the event was held inside, the bad weather that curtailed outdoor activities may even have helped attendance

"The weather is actually perfect for us. We've had a great community turnout," said Shanna Coakley, executive director of the Round Lake Area Chamber of Commerce.

For upcoming chamber events, call (847) 546-2002 or visit rlchamber.com. Read more: Daily Herald

OUR OPINION: We must dispel stigma surrounding skilled jobs

When it comes to skilled trade jobs, Mississippi has a culture problem.

It’s a problem that many states across the country are dealing with, but one that, if solved, could significantly move the needle forward in the Magnolia State.

That was the principal message delivered at a gathering of business and community leaders in Jackson this week at the 69th-annual meeting of the Mississippi Economic Council.

Speaking to the group gathered at the Jackson Convention Complex, Peyton Holland, executive director of North Carolina-based Skills USA, said that a shift must occur to get students to realize that obtaining a job skill is just as important as obtaining a four-year or graduate degree.

That’s not to say the obtainment of a more traditional higher education degree is not valuable. However, the stigma attached to the training and certification required for skilled jobs must vanish in order for Mississippi to move forward. The notion that one is more valuable than the other is what drives a narrative that’s leaving opportunities and paychecks open throughout our state.

Data shows there are about 40,000 jobs available throughout Mississippi that require skills training. And these jobs pay above average wages. High-demand skill-based positions in Mississippi average more than $60,000 – almost twice what an entry level private sector job might earn someone.

The MEC, which is the state’s chamber of commerce, stressed the importance of developing workforce training and technology skills to close the so-called skills gap. Various studies point out that there are not enough trained workers for various jobs that require specialized skills, as reported by the Daily Journal’s Bobby Harrison.Holland said part of the problem is that there is not enough value placed on those professions, such as electricians and welders, that provide a better pay than many jobs where four-year degrees are required. Read more: Daily Journal

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

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

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

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

Chicago Fed Midwest Economy Index points to a pickup in Midwest economic growth in February; Virginia Peninsula Chamber names new CEO; Business Breakfast Bytes, from the Fox Cities Chamber, will focus on Sustainability in the Workplace in April; Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce 2017-2018 Community Guide & Membership Directory; Howell named Great American Main Street Award recipient at national convention in Kansas City; Friday: 157 Rules for Executive Success in Organization Management (and your Chamber of Commerce) by Patrick McGaughey (Chamber Mentor); Michigan City Chamber of Commerce celebrating a century; The Green Lake County Chamber of Commerce Guide & Map; NKY Chamber: Sales Essential Workshop - 5 Steps to Boost Sales with Social Media; NKY Chamber: Sales Essential Workshop - 5 Steps to Boost Sales with Social Media; New Lighthouse In Waveland a Tourist Attraction; Marshall Area Chamber: From the Directors Desk; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.

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



Chicago Fed Midwest Economy Index points to a pickup in Midwest economic growth in February


The Midwest Economy Index (MEI) moved up to +0.44 in February from +0.34 in January. Contributions to the February MEI from three of the four broad sectors of nonfarm business activity and three of the five Seventh Federal Reserve District states increased from January. The relative MEI rose to +0.31 in February from –0.15 in January. Contributions to the February relative MEI from all four sectors and all five states increased from January. Read more: Chicago Federal Reserve


Virginia Peninsula Chamber names new CEO

The Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce named a new president and CEO to succeed Mike Kuhns, who is retiring at the end of March.

Robert S. McKenna, who served 27 years in the Navy before retiring as a captain in mid-2011, starts as the chamber’s new leader on Thursday, Kuhns said.

“Bob’s extensive leadership experience, at the highest level, is what separated him from all the other applicants,” said Chamber Board Chairman Dan Chenoweth. “We wanted someone who can continue our focus on regional collaborative leadership and who has a proven record of team building.”

McKenna lives in Newport News and was selected from more than 185 applicants to lead the 1,400-member organization, Kuhns said. Kuhns will work with McKenna through March as part of the leadership transition. Daily Press

Business Breakfast Bytes, from the Fox Cities Chamber, will focus on Sustainability in the Workplace in April

APPLETON, Wis. (March 29, 2018) – The Fox Cities Chamber’s monthly educational program, Business Breakfast Bytes, will focus on sustainability in the workplace in April. A panel of experts will provide education on the basics of sustainability, the benefits of implementing sustainability initiatives into the workplace and the simple ways to incorporate a “green” lifestyle at work.

People may be unaware of the various categories relating to sustainability as well as the smaller efforts that can be made to lessen the impact on the environment. In recognition of Earth Day in April, attendees will hear from a local small business on how they have taken on the mission of becoming the most environmentally responsible credit union in the nation. There will also be a discussion on the process of becoming a “Travel Green Wisconsin” certified location.

Join Heather McCombs, Sustainable Management Instructor from UW Oshkosh, as she leads the session. The panel of experts will include Kelle Hartman, Children & Family Educator from Green Bay Botanical Garden and Roni Kasperek, Sustainability Manager from Evergreen Credit Union.

"This discussion will address how sustainability applies to three key areas of your business: facilities, operations, and management, and what the costs and benefits of implementing them are. Learn how to get your business started with a green team and look at some third-party rating systems that your business can choose as a guide through the process," shared session facilitator McCombs.

Business Breakfast Bytes are a monthly business educational program focused on providing our small to mid-sized business members across the Fox Cities Region with education and resources addressing top business concerns.

Registration for each individual session is required. Fox Cities Chamber members are allowed to bring a guest and may use the registration link on the Chamber website or call (920) 734-7101 to register. Please visit the Chamber website for complete details of the April session, being hosted at Pullman’s at Trolley Square in Appleton from 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM on Tuesday, April 17. Details and registration can be found at foxcitieschamber.com.

For immediate questions, please contact MiKayla Kunde, Member Engagement Coordinator, by email mkunde@foxcitieschamber.com or phone (920) 734-7101.



Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce 2017-2018 Community Guide & Membership Directory

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

Oxford Mississippi 2017-2018 Community Guide & Membership Directory

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

Howell named Great American Main Street Award recipient at national convention in Kansas City

Members, staff and board of the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate the Howell MainStreet DDA and board members for receiving the Great American Mainstreet Award (GAMSA).  At a live stream at Aberrant Ales, a new brewpub and eatery in downtown Howell, hundreds of proud Howell residents, business leaders and community leaders gathered to cross their fingers and cheer on Howell as everyone eagerly awaited the announcement from the Main Street America presenters in Kansas City. The three national GAMSA award recipients for 2018 are: Rock Spring, Wyoming, Oregon City, Oregon and Howell, Michigan. The Howell Area Chamber of Commerce works in collaboration with Howell Main Street DDA and DDA Board to secure placemaking efforts, making Howell a destination location to eat, shop, play, worship, go to school, work and live. These efforts benefit area residents and business owners, so much so that these honors belong to all of us who call Howell home. This is the philosophy that the Howell Chamber relays with their awards as well, including 2016 Outstanding Chamber of the Year and the Michigan WORKS! “Outstanding Workforce Development Program,” received in 2017. It requires diligence and dedication to be nominated and submit the applications for these awards. The Howell Chamber is proud to be part of this outstanding community and look forward to more adventures right here in Howell!

Via www.mainstreet.org:

More information: Howell Area Chamber



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

RULE #112     Don’t be sorry.

Michigan City Chamber of Commerce celebrating a century

The Michigan City Chamber of Commerce will kick off its 100th anniversary this year by hosting its first celebratory event on March 24.

The Centennial Gala will be held from 5:30 to 11 p.m. at Blue Chip's Stardust Event Center, 778 Blue Chip Drive.

The gala will celebrate both the chamber's and the business community's 100 years of success, chamber President Mary Jo Orlowski said.


"We will honor longtime members and focus on the important role all of our members play in making Michigan City a great place to grow a business," Orlowski said.

"We encourage members and the public to join us for this once-in-a-century evening featuring special guests, signature cocktails, gourmet dining and live music."

Cost is $100 per person. Advance registration is required. Participants can register and pay online at MichiganCityChamber.com or call 219-874-6221.

Charlie Keene, vice president of General Insurances Services, serves as the chamber Board of Directors president.

Keene said he is proudest of the chamber's support of the Michigan City Area Schools and its support and development of Lakefront Career Network, a committee that raises money to help those with needs.

"The future of our chamber, and I'd like to see it continue for another 100 years and beyond, is on our focus on young folks so it will continue to grow," Keene said.

The chamber was founded on June 14, 1918, by a group of men including Joseph Hays, who owned Hays Corp., Orlowski said.

Meetings were held at Marquette Hall and the first president was Leon Kramer, who served part-time and in an unpaid position. Read more: NWI Times




The Green Lake County Chamber of Commerce Guide & Map

The Green Lake County Chamber of Commerce  Guide & Map is available at the Green Lake County Chamber! Thanks to the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Green Lake map

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

NKY Chamber: Sales Essential Workshop - 5 Steps to Boost Sales with Social Media
Tuesday, April 24, 2018 9:30 AM - 10:30 AMEST

Northern Kentucky Chamber Of Commerce
300 Buttermilk Pike Suite 330
Ft. Mitchell, KY 41017


5 Steps to Boost Sales with Social Medi


Learning Objectives in this session will be:

• How to create an impactful social media presence

• How to reach your target audience

• How to build lasting relationships on social media

• How to engage effectively, promptly and consistently


This session will be presented by Michelle Hummel who was recently nominated for the Woman Owned Business of the Year! She’s a passionate Social Media Trainer with 15+ years of successful online business development, sales and marketing experience. She holds a valuable Internet Marketing Degree and travels Nationwide providing social media keynotes and in-depth training. Read more: NKY Chamber of Commerce



New Lighthouse In Waveland a Tourist Attraction

A new lighthouse is making a tourist attraction out of bathrooms on the beach, by incorporating them into a $1.9 million lighthouse with a roof-level viewing deck.

"We're the only city on the Coast that doesn't have a bathroom facility on the beach," Mayor Mike Smith told the Sun Herald .

Several of those cities have lighthouses. The Biloxi Lighthouse is one of that city's biggest attractions. Gulfport built a replica lighthouse at Jones Park after Hurricane Katrina and Pascagoula rebuilt the iconic Round Island Lighthouse as a beacon at the entrance of the city.

The Waveland lighthouse is for tourism rather than navigation, and officials say the deck will provide excellent water views.

"It will be an attraction for the city to draw people to Waveland beaches," said Tish Williams, executive director of Hancock Chamber of Commerce. "The Waveland beaches are beautiful."

Groundbreaking was held Friday for the project, which is under a 280-day contract, WLOX-TV reported .

"Oh my gosh, it's just amazing," Cindy Rice told the station. "We are from Michigan, we winter down here, and this has been in the works for so long."

Smith said he expects the new beach volleyball courts will be used much more once bathrooms are available.

He also says he hopes work can be finished by the end of the summer.

Former Mayor David Garcia first proposed the idea.

"We improved the design and sought out funding," said Smith.

He said no local taxes will be needed. The money is coming from Mississippi Tidelands funds paid primarily by waterfront casinos, GoMesa money from offshore oil rigs and a sea wall tax, which comes from a gasoline tax. Read more: WTVA.org



Marshall Area Chamber: From the Directors Desk

Happy Spring! We have quite a bit of great things going on in our community. Take a look at the calendar of events, be sure to get out and enjoy all the great opportunities! Our annual career fair is shaping up nicely and several of you have registered for the marketing lunch and learn. We are very anxious to host an open house, April 20, to show off our newly remodeled building and introduce our small business's in the building.
The community wide yard sale is coming up in May and not to long after, the end of the school year.  On May 16th, we will be touring the first grade class downtown to learn about the Walldog murals.  Our investors and potential investors will be invited to hear updates from the county, city, school system and the chamber at the community update late May.
The National Road Heritage Corridor group will be meeting on April 12 at 6pm at the Martinsville Public Library (downstairs), if you are interested, please join us.
We have had a lot of interest in our community in the last several months, I have been fielding a lot of phone calls and tours of our great community, but lets remember we often bring guests to your businesses, lets leave them with the BEST impression of Marshall as we can!  


Happy Easter,
Jennifer Bishop

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

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

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

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