Good of Goshen campaign hopes to highlight success stories that have come out of the city; Kentucky Chamber: Pensions, education crucial to biz health; Scholarship applications available from Round Lake (Illinois) Chamber; Chamber Tweet of the Day: Detroit Chamber; Virginia Peninsula Community Invited to Fort Eustis Jan. 13 to Voice Concerns About Downsizing; Minnesota Chamber begins search for president; Conway Area Chamber: Congratulations to the 2014 Women in Business; Chamber issue: Dwayne Crompton: Collaboration is critical for early childhood development; Ottumwa (Iowa) Chamber of Commerce looking to make Ottumwa more attractive to new comers;

Good of Goshen campaign hopes to highlight success stories that have come out of the city

Goshen’s schools, businesses and officials want to tell stories of the good that comes out of their city.
The Good of Goshen, a campaign highlighting the work of individuals who are involved in the community, is an effort planned by the City of Goshen, the Goshen Chamber of Commerce, Goshen Community Schools and Goshen College to rebrand the city.
The four entities became sponsors of the campaign and are now working with Eyedart Creative Studio to develop the project, said Gina Leichty, one of Eyedart’s partners.
Part of the campaign included launching a website, goodofgoshen.com, which features stories of entrepreneurs and community leaders who work to make Goshen a better city.
The campaign and the website launched in late July, during the Elkhart County 4-H Fair parade, but the plan is to have an official launch in September. Around that time, billboards will pop up to advertise the campaign.
“People are uncommonly passionate about the city and their community, and so it’s been really fun for us to uncover those stories and have an opportunity to tell them because we believe in what we’re doing and in our city,” Leichty said. “And there’s just so much good material available that makes it really easy.” Read more: Elkhart Truth

Kentucky Chamber: Pensions, education crucial to biz health

The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce has some ideas about how to make Kentucky better, and the chamber president said Bowling Green and Warren County are doing well compared to other parts of the state.
Dave Adkisson, Kentucky Chamber president and chief executive officer, said the chamber is emphasizing in its 2015 legislative agenda the need for public-private partnerships, or P3s, and financial transparency in the state’s pension systems. He said pensions will continue to be a major point of discussion during the 2015 legislative session.
“The state’s pension problems cast a shadow over everything the state government does,” Adkisson said. “The Kentucky retirement system and the Kentucky teacher retirement system are both underfunded, and we’re now forced to play catch-up ... It keeps us from investing in our priorities, such as schools, colleges and universities. It’s siphoning off all of those new dollars. It’s been years in the making and it will be years in recovery.” Read more: Bowling Green Daily News

Scholarship applications available from Round Lake (Illinois) Chamber

Scholarship applications are available to graduating high school senior students in the Round Lake area and Hainesville. The Round Lake Area Chamber of Commerce offers scholarships to worthy graduates who want to further their education academically or vocationally. To request an application, email info@rlchamber.org, call (847) 546-2002 or visit the office at 2007 Civic Center Way, Round Lake Beach. Deadline application is Feb. 12. Source: Daily Herald 


Chamber Tweet of the Day: Detroit Chamber

Detroit Chamber retweeted

Startgrid ‏@startgridco 20h20 hours ago

Don't miss the #StartgridDET relaunch event with @DetroitChamber.Connect with #entrepreneurs shaping #Detroit. http://bit.ly/1xE8EVp

Virginia Peninsula Community Invited to Fort Eustis Jan. 13 to Voice Concerns About Downsizing

The Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce encouraging mass community participation to help showcase the real and devastating impact force reductions on Fort Eustis could have on the community.

Eliminating positions and downsizing jobs at the U.S. Army’s Fort Eustis would create significant, negative impact to every aspect of the Virginia Peninsula community and greater Hampton Roads, the Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce (VPCC) said this week.
This month, before the Department of Defense rules on where cuts should occur throughout the Army, Newport News and the Peninsula community will have a chance to tell military leadership just that.
On Tuesday, Jan. 13, residents, business leaders, employees, educators, charitable groups and more are encouraged to attend the Fort Eustis Community Listening Session from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the Wylie Theater on post.
“There are potentially thousands of uniformed and civil service positions at stake here, with a huge impact on the Virginia and Hampton Roads economies,” said Retired Navy Rear Adm. Craig R. Quigley, Executive Director for the Hampton Roads Military and Federal Facilities Alliance. “It is very important that we have a good turnout at this event with crisp and specific messaging.” Read more: Virtual Strategy News


Minnesota Chamber begins search for president

The Minnesota Chamber of Commerce has launched its search for a new president. The process will be steered by the 48-member Board of Directors representing a cross-section of Minnesota businesses. The individual will succeed longtime president David Olson, who passed away in July 2014.
The president is responsible for leading and executing the strategic plan adopted by the Board of Directors. The board has retained Ballinger Leafblad of St. Paul to conduct a national search for candidates.Source: BusinessNorth.com

Conway Area Chamber: Congratulations to the 2014 Women in Business

The Conway Area Chamber of Commerce’s third annual Women in Business Awards, presented by the University of Central Arkansas Foundation and Simmons Bank, honored individuals in the Conway area who have excelled in leadership and community service and who have inspired others on both a personal and professional level. Each year, four individuals receive the “Outstanding Woman in Business Award,” sponsored by Conway Corporation and Southwestern Energy.
This year’s Outstanding Women in Business winners are Melissa Britton of Conway Management Inc., Chasity Campbell of Abundant Wellness/Bodyworks Spa, Tess Fletcher of Children’s Advocacy Alliance and Lori Ross Scroggin of Conway Regional Health System. The honorees embody high standards of excellence, dedication and accomplishment to their respective organizations, industries and to the business community. Read more: Log Cabin Democrat 

Chamber issue: Dwayne Crompton: Collaboration is critical for early childhood development

As a city, we are thrilled that the business community has added early childhood development to its list of five strategic priorities.

The Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce must be applauded for shining a light on this issue of school readiness, which plagues under-resourced neighborhoods.

With the leadership of the chamber, along with former mayors Kay Barnes and Carol Marinovich, and Tracy McFerrin Foster of the Hall Family Foundation at the helm, we have a great chance to transform this city, empowering the next generation of Kansas City families and children. But, as they take the lead, everyone must step up to lend a hand. Read more: Kansas City Star (Opinion)

Ottumwa (Iowa) Chamber of Commerce looking to make Ottumwa more attractive to new comers

The Ottumwa Chamber of Commerce is working to attract more residents to the community.
The Ottumwa Chamber of Commerce plus some other local groups got together to put make a relocation packet.
It's a professional packet with information inside about the city.
The group came up with a theme for the packet called "Choose Ottumwa."
They chose the theme because when people are relocating, they want them to Choose Ottumwa.
Residents, businesses, and businesses recruiting employees can use the packet. Read more: Heartland Connection

Cubs owner Tom Ricketts at suburban multi-chamber luncheon Jan. 27; Chamber Best Practices: Conway Program gives preschoolers better chance; Apply at chamber: Washington County (Virginia) offers competitive business challenge with more than $10,000 in prizes; Bowling Green chamber news: Region, Kentucky seeing job growth; Chamber economic news: Klohs drives economic development through strategic planning, rigorous measurement; Chamber asset: 7 national parks in Nebraska, Iowa pour more than $23 million into local economies; Missouri Chamber: State faces economic challenges; South Dakota chamber president to speak at legislative luncheon; Chamber challenge: 9 key issues facing the 2015 Minnesota Legislature; New Year's Resolution Quotation: Mark Twain

Cubs owner Tom Ricketts at suburban multi-chamber luncheon Jan. 27

Cubs owner Tom Ricketts will talk about the state of his ball club at a multi-chamber luncheon, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Jan. 27 at Avalon Banquets, 1905 E. Higgins Road, Elk Grove Village. Ricketts will be introduced by Daily Herald sportswriter Barry Rozner. Tickets are $35 and the deadline to sign up is Jan. 20. Must pay before event. Call (847) 398-3730 or visit rmchamber.org. Source: Daily Herald

Chamber Best Practices: Conway Program gives preschoolers better chance

Dr. Charlotte Green of Conway Public Schools believes all children should have an equal start, and so she founded Arkansas Preschool Plus.

Housed at Conway Adult Education, the small nonprofit organization provides professional development for pre-kindergarten teachers, support for parents and teaching materials. The organization was founded in response to the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce Conway 2025 initiative, which determined private daycare centers needed more support so all children could access a quality preschool experience. Arkansas Preschool Plus exists through a partnership between the Conway Public Schools and the Conway Area Chamber of Commerce. It also receives some funding from the United Way of Central Arkansas. Read more: Log Cabin Democrat

Apply at chamber: Washington County (Virginia) offers competitive business challenge with more than $10,000 in prizes

The Town of Abingdon, the Washington County IDA, Highlands Union Bank and several participating partners of Virginia Highlands Small Business Incubator, have announced the second annual Washington County Business Challenge.

The Business Challenge program is an ambitious business plan competition designed to attract entrepreneurs with new technology, value added agriculture, outdoor recreation and retail/support service businesses to locate their start up or to expand their existing business within Washington County. (1) One start up and (1) one existing business will win $5,000 each towards implementing their winning business strategy. Read more: SwVAtoday.com

Bowling Green chamber news: Region, Kentucky  seeing job growth

The region will likely have a stronger economic year in 2015 than 2014.
Kentucky is on the road to economic recovery, with last month’s jobless rate dropping the most it has in more than 30 years. Warren County and the surrounding counties have also seen positive growth that will likely continue, according to Ron Bunch, president and chief executive officer of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce.
“We’ve been really fortunate in our area to have economic development over the past several years,” Bunch said.
Warren County’s November unemployment rate was 4.4 percent, Bunch said. The chamber announced nine economic development projects this year, creating 653 new jobs. Although it’s good that jobs are open in manufacturing and more jobs are opening in health care, Bunch said there’s still work to be done for unemployed and underemployed people in our region. Read more: Bowling Green Daily News



Chamber economic news: Klohs drives economic development through strategic planning, rigorous measurement

Birgit Klohs’ career has been full of many firsts.

Before ever joining The Right Place Inc., Klohs led a team of West Michigan executives on the first organized foreign trade mission to her native Germany, which landed a commitment from Behr Industries to invest in building a plant on 7 Mile Road in Comstock Park.

When Klohs excitedly agreed to serve as president and CEO of The Right Place in 1987, she effectively became the first woman executive to lead an economic development organization in the state of Michigan, and one of only a handful to do so across the country at that time.

She continues to add to the ever-growing list of firsts as Klohs was selected by a panel of judges to receive the Lifetime Achievement Award as part of the inaugural MiBiz Best-Managed Nonprofit Awards program.

For people who’ve known and worked with Klohs over the years, her career feats come as no surprise.

“She’s established herself as the dean of economic development officials,” said Milton Rohwer, the former president of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce, the founding executive leader of The Right Place and one of Klohs’ closest mentors.

- See more at: MI BIZ

Chamber asset: 7 national parks in Nebraska, Iowa pour more than $23 million into local economies

The Niobrara’s scenic river designation has a huge economic benefit to Valentine, a north-central Nebraska community of 2,700, said Dean Jacobs, executive director of the Valentine Chamber of Commerce and Cherry County Tourism.

“There’s no question that having the Niobrara National Scenic River here as part of the national park system helps. It’s probably our biggest tourist draw,” he said.

The Park Service report attributed $2.9 million in visitor spending in the Valentine area to the Niobrara National Scenic River in 2013. Spending by nearly 72,000 visitors supported 40 jobs.

“We do a lot of marketing to get the word out about the river,” Jacobs said. “There are a lot of outdoor recreation reasons to come here, but Valentine is known for the national scenic river.” Read more: Omaha.com

Missouri Chamber: State faces 

economic challenges

Missouri's Chamber of Commerce and Industry conducted its first regional initiative in Cape Girardeau on Thursday to discuss the state's future.

Nearly 20 people gathered at the Drury Lodge to hear Karen Buschmann, vice president of communications at the state chamber, and Ted Abernathy, leader of the initiative, speak about their findings.

The initiative is part of the chamber's "Missouri 2030: An Agenda to Lead," which is formed around discussing Missouri's sustainability and how business leaders intend to help the state become a leader in economic growth over the next 15 years. Abernathy cited a recent survey of more than 1,000 employers.

Missouri's job growth from 1994 to 2014 increased 12 percent, he said, while its manufacturing jobs have fallen 29 percent. The number of 25- to 44-year-olds remaining in the state fell 6 percent during that period. Read more:  Southeast Missourian

South Dakota chamber president to speak at legislative luncheon

The Government Affairs Committee of the Aberdeen Area Chamber of Commerce will preview the 2015 South Dakota legislative session at a noon luncheon on Jan. 9 at the Ramada Convention Center.

David Owen, president of the South Dakota Chamber of Commerce and Industry, will speak. Read more: Aberdeen News



Chamber challenge: 9 key issues facing the 2015 

Minnesota Legislature

 With a more than $1 billion surplus, state legislators say the prospect of a government shutdown over the 2016/2017 budget is unlikely.

But it's not going to be a cakewalk, either. That $1 billion may seem like a lot, but it only barely covers spending increases under current law — and there are plenty of people and groups competing for a piece of this relatively small pie for what they argue are deserving issues.

Senate Majority Leader Tom Bakk and House Republicans are already tempering expectations, saying that spending increases — if there are any — will likely be small. And legislators should expect to see spending cuts in some areas as well.

With a billion-dollar cushion, Gov. Mark Dayton says that he won't propose a general tax increase but will propose new revenue to pay for transportation projects.

Meanwhile, House Republicans say they want to cut taxes to make the state friendlier to business. That's a position held by the powerful Minnesota Chamber of Commerce as well, which has suggested reducing the corporate tax and lowering taxes for businesses that pay through their income tax filings. Read more: Minnesota Public Radio News


New Year's Resolution Quotation: Mark Twain



"New Year's Day now is the accepted time to make your regular annual good resolutions. Next week you can begin paving hell with them as usual." -- Mark Twain

Arkansas Chamber Of Commerce Planning June Trip To Cuba; Joseph Henning Named 2014 Illinois Chamber Executive of the Year; Indiana Chamber Top Ten Employer: Centier named top workplace and is hiring; Chamber Tweet of the Day: Kentucky Chamber; Wisconsin Commerce and business groups optimistic about prospects in 2015; Missouri Chamber: Long-term policies for job creation should be the focus of the 2015 Legislative Session; Minnesota chamber: Good job advice for families, students; Chamber concern: A Kansas Town Rallies for a Modest Lifeline: A Local Grocery Store; Chamber partnership: Governor Branstad Recognizes Urbandale as Eighth Connect Iowa Certified Connected Community; 5 scary excuses that are keeping you from starting a business (but shouldn't)

Arkansas Chamber Of Commerce Planning June Trip To Cuba

Before Wednesday’s presidential announcement opening up relations with Cuba, the Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce was planning a networking trip to the communist island nation. Now, the excursion may take on a world of new meaning.

The state chamber, in partnership with Chamber Explorations, is offering members the chance to travel to Cuba from June 2-8, 2015.

"The ‘Discover Cuba’ trip is designed to create a great travel experience with a networking opportunity that is unlike any other," the chamber said in an email to members on Thursday. The 7-day itinerary includes a trip to a Cuban tobacco farm, cigar factory, Ernest Hemingway’s farm, a tour of Old Havana, and meetings with artists and sports figures.

Chamber officials set their original goal for the trip at 35 travelers. That may grow thanks to Wednesday’s announcement from President Obama to move towards normalizing diplomatic and economic relations between the United States and Cuba. Read more: UALR Public Radio

Joseph Henning Named 2014  

Illinois Chamber Executive of the Year

Aurora Regional Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Joseph Henning has been named the 2014 Illinois Chamber Executive of the Year by the Illinois Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives. Henning, who lives in Aurora and has served as CEO since 2005, was recognized for his long-term professional achievements and a career hallmarked by professionalism, leadership and ethical conduct.

Indiana Chamber Top Ten Employer: Centier named top workplace and is hiring

One of the best banks to work for in the country is local and hiring. American Banker, one of the banking industry's leading trade publications, named Merrillville-based Centier Bank one of the top 20 banks in the country to work for. Centier, the largest privately owned bank in Indiana, placed 17th in the magazine's second annual national ranking.

The large community bank, which has $2.5 billion in assets and 678 employees, is currently looking to fill around a dozen positions in Northwest Indiana. 

Current openings posted on the company's website include openings in Merrillville, Valparaiso, Hammond, Dyer and Winfield. Available jobs include teller, mortgage loan originator, wealth management officer, associate investment representative, and group manager. Read more: NWI Times

Chamber Tweet of the Day: Kentucky Chamber

Kentucky Chamber ‏@KyChamber 16m16 minutes ago

On the blog: before the new year, check out list of bills pre-filed ahead of the 2015 session http://kychamberblog.com/2014/12/31/many-big-bills-pre-filed-ahead-of-the-2015-session/ …

Wisconsin Commerce and business groups optimistic about prospects in 2015

Chamber of Commerce officials in Wisconsin are optimistic about the state’s business climate in the upcoming New Year.

Jim Morgan is president of the Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce Foundation and says just released survey results show Wisconsin chamber of commerce executives expect increased economic growth in the coming year. According to Morgan, “They’re very optimistic about the direction in which the state is going, they’re beginning to see a little bit of growth in their communities.” 87% of chamber officials think the state’s economic future is on the right track, and 91% say Wisconsin is pro-business and that recent reforms are working. Morgan said the only real concerns are a shortage of qualified workers; followed by concerns over healthcare costs and taxes. Read more: WBDL.com

Missouri Chamber: Long-term policies for job creation should be the focus of the 2015 Legislative Session

Much has changed in Missouri since legislative leaders closed the 2014 Legislative Session in Jefferson City.  During the summer and fall, political campaigns dominated televisions and newspapers. Sadly, in August the focus shifted to stories of violence and protests – stories that have continued to dominant media in Missouri and around the nation. Many wonder how the newly elected General Assembly and the lessons learned from the unrest in Ferguson in 2014 will impact the upcoming 2015 Legislative Session.  With this backdrop, Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry believes, now more than ever, that long-term policies for job creation should be the focus of Missouri’s policy makers.

“Missouri is stronger when everyone who wants to work can find a job,” said Daniel P. Mehan, Missouri Chamber president and CEO. “And Missouri will create more jobs when we improve the business climate in which our job creators – Missouri’s employers – operate.  We can’t downplay the complexity of social problems that have moved to the forefront in recent months.  However, creating more job opportunities can make a difference and is within reach this legislative session.” Read more: Missouri Chamber

Minnesota chamber: Good job advice for families, students

Families, high school students and educators would be wise to spend five to 10 minutes reading Bill Blazar’s recent comments about jobs in Minnesota. Blazar is interim president of the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. In December, he described the large and growing number of technical jobs available now and in the future. His presentation is found here: http://bit.ly/16MeETd.

Blazar’s comments came in a presentation to Civic Caucus, a non-partisan group that discusses key Minnesota challenges and publicizes possible solutions.

He stressed, according to Civic Caucus, “how important it is for parents and students alike to recognize income potential from occupations requiring technical training.” Blazar pointed out: “A person with a high school degree can become licensed for operating heavy equipment with less than a year’s training and make a very good wage. Some who choose this route could later decide whether to pursue a four-year college degree.” Read more: HometownSource.com

Chamber concern: A Kansas Town Rallies for a Modest Lifeline: A Local Grocery Store

Here in southwest Kansas, where small communities have struggled since the Dust Bowl to retain businesses and residents, a town’s viability is measured by what has not yet closed. Losing a post office is considered the kiss of death. Losing a school can be a terminal diagnosis.


But losing a grocery store, as Plains did in 2001, is a problem that, while not necessarily lethal, is most certainly cause for concern.


“A grocery store is the heart of the town,” said Jeanne Roberts, who is leading the effort to open a new shop. “In small towns, it’s the social gathering place. And when you don’t have that social gathering place and you’re going outside, then you don’t feel connected. Read more: New York Times

Chamber partnership: Governor Branstad Recognizes Urbandale as Eighth Connect Iowa Certified Connected Community

Today, Governor Branstad, Connected Nation President Tom Ferree, and local officials recognized Urbandale for becoming Connect Iowa’s eighth Certified Connected Community in the state and completing its technology action plan. The City of Urbandale and the Urbandale Chamber of Commerce worked to move this initiative forward.
“We are pleased about Connect Iowa's effort and the collaboration it has engendered among the different agencies throughout the region,” said Branstad. "Lt. Governor Reynolds and I are passionate about increasing access, adoption, and the use of broadband technology in Iowa. I commend Urbandale on completing the extensive assessment and planning process in order to be recognized as a Certified Connected Community. I am confident that the community will use this designation to increase the robust economic development efforts in Urbandale.”
The City of Urbandale has been working since January with Connect Iowa on the Connected Community Engagement Program. This initiative assesses the local broadband landscape, identifies gaps, and establishes goals and objectives to increase broadband access, adoption, and use for families, organizations, and businesses throughout the community. The City of Urbandale was able to meet the point requirements necessary to achieve the Certified Connected Community status.

Read more: Virtual Strategy Magazine

5 scary excuses that are keeping you from starting a business (but shouldn't)

                 

Are you thinking about starting a business?
If you’re like many people, starting a business is a cherished dream. Sure, you can see yourself doing what you love and creating something for yourself and your family.
But maybe the actual step forward eludes you.
What’s stopping you is fear. It’s understandable to be apprehensive about such a large investment of time and money with no guaranteed success, but these fears must be overcome so you can at least give it a try.
Here are five fears or excuses that shouldn’t keep you from realizing your dreams.

1.  “I don’t know anything about starting a business.” Read more: Daily Herald Business Ledger

Kansas City Chamber is searching for next Small Business of the Year; Illinois Chamber issue: Schock visits Peoria Lock and Dam; Muskegon Chamber Outlook: Chambers expect increased capital investment, new projects leading 2015; Meredith Rea named East Mississippi Business Development Corporation Chamber of Commerce manager; Kyndle CEO Brad Schneider and Kyndle Vice President of Economic Development Donna Crooks, CEcD were both recently appointed to positions on the boards of directors for a pair of state organizations; Rogers-Lowell Chamber Good News: Wachter Inc Invests $2 Million To Expand Its Lowell, Arkansas, Manufacturing Center; Chamber challenge: Nebraska’s unemployment rate at 3.1 percent in November; Iowa's at 4.3 percent; Chamber report: Immigrants Make Big Contributions to Minnesota Economy, Study says; North Platte Chamber issue: Government agency charges post office $7,500/month rent; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotations: (Attitude)

Kansas City Chamber is searching for next Small Business of the Year

The Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce is once again searching for the next Small Business of the Year. Applications will be accepted through Feb. 6.
"The application process launches us into several exciting months of activities during the 2015 Small Business Celebration as we recognize the small business sector and the impact these organizations are having on Kansas City and our economy as a whole," Chamber President and CEO Jim Heeter said in a release. Read more: Kansas City Business Journal

Illinois Chamber issue: Schock visits Peoria Lock and Dam

Politicians and industry leaders converged on the Peoria Lock and Dam on Friday to celebrate a new funding mechanism to help drive the local farming economy and U.S. exports globally.

U.S. Rep. Aaron Schock, who this month helped push HR 647 through the House by a 404-17 vote, hosted a news conference Friday. The bill, if passed as expected by the Senate and signed by President Barack Obama, would increase taxes on diesel fuel used to power barges, from 20 cents to 29 cents. The hike would increase funding for operations and maintenance of locks and dams on the country’s inland waterways — a job creator for craftsmen and a benefit to the agriculture and mining industries.

Illinois waterways transport 100 million tons of product each year, said Todd Maisch, president and CEO of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, translating to $6.4 billion into the state’s economy.

“That’s absolutely vital. It puts people to work; it makes the economy work,” Maisch said. Read more: Pekin Daily Times

The Outlook: Three Michigan chambers expect increased capital investment, new projects leading 2015 

While talent development and some legislative reforms may prove to be challenges, West Michigan chambers of commerce executives feel confident looking ahead to 2015 as they project increased business investment in their individual communities.

For Muskegon, leaders are optimistic about “a lot of strategic growth” among member businesses “that’s a little different than in the past,” said Cindy Larsen, president of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce.

“People are being very thoughtful with investment,” she said.

Whereas companies have been slow to invest during the recovery, some businesses are now beginning to spend with more confidence by making strategic investments in facilities, technology and talent, Larsen said.

- See more at: http://mibiz.com/item/22104-chambers-expect-increased-capital-investment,-new-projects-leading-2015#sthash.ZMJmAvkZ.dpuf

See more at: MI BIZ

Meredith Rea named East Mississippi Business Development Corporation Chamber of Commerce manager

The East Mississippi Business Development Corporation (EMBDC) announced that Meredith Rea has been named the manager of the Chamber of Commerce. She joined the EMBDC as public relations coordinator in 2010. During that time Rea coordinated events, managed all communications and marketing, and served in various other capacities.
    As the Chamber of Commerce manager, Rea will manage Leadership Lauderdale, ambassadors, member services, Business Before and After Hours, and various other programs of the EMBDC Chamber. She is in the process of completing her Institute for Organization Management certification.
     “Meredith has proven herself as a leader, providing invaluable organizational skills and being active with our volunteer base. She continues to promote growth and help forge a new direction with our membership,” said EMBDC Chairman Bob Luke.      Rea’s community involvement includes leadership and volunteer roles with Young Professionals of Meridian, Meridian Main Street, and Meridian Little Theatre. She is a member of the Public Relations Association of Mississippi – Meridian, Mississippi Economic Development Council, and a Leadership Lauderdale alumni. Read more: The Meridian Star

Kyndle CEO Brad Schneider and Kyndle Vice President of Economic Development Donna Crooks, CEcD were both recently appointed to positions on the boards of directors for a pair of state organizations

Schneider was reelected as Treasurer of Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Executives. KCCE is the state's professional association for local chambers of commerce staff members. This is Schneider's second term on KCCE's executive committee and his fifth year on KCCE's board. He is in his first year as CEO of Kyndle after spending the previous five years as president of the former Henderson-Henderson County Chamber of Commerce. Read more: SurfKY.com

Rogers-Lowell Chamber Good News: Wachter Inc Invests $2 Million To Expand Its Lowell, Arkansas, Manufacturing Center

Wachter Inc., a leading national provider of electrical, data, communications, automation and other building systems, is expanding its facility in Lowell, Arkansas. The company plans to invest $2 million in the expansion and add 20 new jobs, bringing total employment at the facility to 260.

The expansion of the Lowell facility is necessary due to Wachter’s continued growth, both locally and nationally, over the years, Arkansas Economic Development officials said.

“Wachter’s decision to expand this facility is a testament to the quality of work produced by the company’s existing employees in Lowell,” said Grant Tennille, Executive Director of the Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “We appreciate Wachter’s continued commitment to growing and investing in Arkansas.”

“It is always great to see a business be able to announce expansions and new hiring,” said Raymond Burns, President/CEO of the Rogers-Lowell Area Chamber of Commerce. “Wachter is a great company that does some truly amazing things. Read more: Area Development

Chamber challenge: Nebraska’s unemployment rate at 3.1 percent in November; Iowa's at 4.3 percent

The number of unemployed Nebraskans and the state’s unemployment rate both plunged in November to levels not seen since early 2008, as the state saw near-record employment with monthly job gains led by the trade, transportation and utilities industry.
Unemployment fell to 3.1 percent, down from 3.4 percent in October and from 3.7 percent a year ago, according to preliminary figures released Friday by the Nebraska Department of Labor.

Iowa’s rate, meanwhile, fell to 4.3 percent from 4.5 percent in October. The figure was up slightly from 4.2 percent a year ago and ranks 10th nationwide.
Nebraska’s rate was not as low as the state record 2.2 percent in 1998 but was the second-lowest rate among states and a level economists consider “full employment.” Read more: Omaha World-Herald

Chamber report: Immigrants Make Big Contributions to Minnesota Economy, Study says

Immigration is always a divisive debate and a new, non-partisan study shows its benefits for Minnesota.
It shows new numbers about how immigrants are contributing to the state's economy.
Sharing African recipes, with up to 600 customers a day in the West Bank and Cedar Riverside communities; It's what makes this Minneapolis small business owner Abdirahman Kahin proud.
"Our positive impact into the economy, and to the labor, and into a lot of aspects of life," Kahin said. He's glad to see those are some of the results from a new study out on Immigrant Contributions to Minnesota's Economy.
Sarah Radosevich is a Policy Research Analyst with the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. Radosevich is part of the Minnesota Business Immigration Coalition, which helped author the report. "We found that immigrant purchasing power more like $7.7 billion a year," Radosevich said. The study also found they contributed more than $22 billion to the state's GDP. And more than $1 billion in state and local taxes. Radosevich said it's good for the state's economy. Read more: KSTP TV

North Platte Chamber issue: Government agency charges post office $7,500/month rent

The postal service currently pays $91,000 a year to lease space in the downtown federal building for a post office, Chamber of Commerce President John Hale said Friday.

Hale appeared on the Mugs in the Morning talk show with Rick Windham on KODY radio.

Citing a report in the North Platte Telegraph newspaper, Hale said that amount of rent equates to $15 per square foot – “easily twice as much” as an average rental rate for commercial retail space in North Platte.    

The postal service, citing financial trouble, wants to move the post office counter and 1,000 post office boxes, to its mail processing center on the east edge of North Platte. The move prompted an outcry from business and community leaders, in part because it gave abrupt notice shortly before Christmas time, without a public hearing. Read more: North Platte Bulletin

Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotations: (Attitude)

“Hold on to what is good, Even if it's a handful of earth. Hold on to what you believe, Even if it's a tree that stands by itself. Hold on to what you must do, Even if it's a long way from here. Hold on to your life, Even if it's easier to let go. Hold on to my hand, Even if someday I'll be gone away from you.”

~A Pueblo Indian

 

Chamber Executive Ongoing Education Weekly New Idea: The Magicians of Main Street - by Chris Mead, ACCE; One Southern Indiana launches committee to explore regional plan; Sauk Valley Area Chamber (Illinois) names new executive director; Greater Richmond Chamber and Community College Workforce Alliance connect former HDL employees with potential new employers; Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch: I found Wisconsin all over China; “American Pickers” is coming to Phillips County in January says Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Doug Friedlander; Chamber partnerships: 'Big Mo' on the banks of the 'Mighty Mo': Installation underway for latest public art piece in Council Bluffs; Chamber issue: Denny Sanford To Donate $25 Million For Scholarship Program; Chamber sponsorship: New themes for Minnesota higher education; Chamber Tweet of the Day: Detroit Chamber

Chamber Executive Ongoing Education Weekly New Idea: The Magicians of Main Street - by Chris Mead, ACCE

A new book, the first-ever full-length history of chambers of commerce in the United States, describes how voluntary groups of business people, even before the American Revolution, changed not only their local economies but often their society.  The Magicians of Main Street indicates, in considerable detail, how chambers of commerce affected the nation’s finance and currency, public health, transportation, public works, local government, education, and even cultural life.  The traces of these organizations’ activities remain with us in countless ways, from Washington’s Cherry Blossom Festival to New York City’s subway to Chicago’s Board of Trade to the gaming industry of Las Vegas and the stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The author, Chris Mead, argues that these chambers have grown out of the natural tendency of Americans to form associations.  As the political commentator Michael Barone has pointed out:
“Alexis de Tocqueville in his classic Democracy in America expressed wonderment at the proliferation of voluntary associations in the United States.  Among them were chambers of commerce, the first of which was founded in New York in 1768, before the American Revolution.  In The Magicians of Main Street, Chris Mead tells how chambers of commerce across the nation shaped America from colonial times to the end of World War II.  This is a story, previously untold, essential to understanding how America became what it is.”
Why has there been no such book up to now?  Mead thinks people have overlooked chambers of commerce in favor primarily of individuals with specific legal powers or well-known talents or obvious achievements.  The idea that a group of people can change the world or a community is one that our individualistic society sometimes passes over.  He devotes a full appendix to 13 reasons
that the chamber of commerce story has been missed by most historians, journalists, and the
general public.
In 2012, when the book was far from finished, a Wall Street Journal reporter learned about the project and put Mead and the book on the cover of the newspaper, with an article entitled, “Don’t Yawn:  Chambers of Commerce are Really Quite a Kick.”  And in fact, they are.  Historian Kevin Starr describes the book:
“Long before the enfranchisement of municipal governments, chambers of commerce or their equivalents ran the show.  In many ways, they still do.  In this never-a-dull-moment contribution to the re-emergent field of American business history, Chris Mead presents an action-packed narrative of high-mindedness, enlightened self-interest, and, now and then, chicanery.”
Among the most colorful business organizations in the nation’s history were those of Chicago:  the Chicago Board of Trade (originally an ordinary chamber of commerce that invented modern agricultural product trading and morphed into the world’s leading commodities exchange), the Commercial Club, and the Capone-hunting Chicago Association of Commerce.  Yet there were other interesting chamber activities across the land.  Mead traces their examples – good and bad -- across the 50 states and weaves them into a narrative that becomes, almost imperceptibly at first for the reader, an alternative history of the United States.  To a far greater extent than anyone realized before the publication of this book, our country has been shaped by pickup teams of business people who paid their dues and built up their communities.
The book is available from John Cruger Press via Amazon at the hard-copy price of $29.95.  It is 517 pages long including footnotes and bibliography. More information: Magicians of Main Street

One Southern Indiana launches committee to explore regional plan

One Southern Indiana, the chamber of commerce serving Clark and Floyd Counties, has developed a Regional Cities Initiative Steering Committee to develop an eight-year regional plan.
That plan will be used to pursue a potential state grant that could lead to investments of as much as $1 billion in Clark and Floyd Counties during the next eight years, according to a news release.
One Southern Indiana in (its) release said the steering committee was created after the state started pushing public and private leaders to pursue enhancements by designing "dynamic public places" that would bring more businesses, families and residents to Indiana. One Southern Indiana said such improvements would make the region more competitive within the state. Read more: Louisville Business First

Sauk Valley Area Chamber (Illinois) names new executive director

The Sauk Valley Area Chamber of Commerce didn't have to look far for a new executive director.
Kris Noble, who was hired in September to be a project manager at the chamber, will take over the position in January.
She will succeed Kim Ewoldsen, who will go to work for the Morrison Area Development Corp., but will continue as a consultant for the Sauk Valley Chamber.
Before being hired by the chamber in September, Noble was a counselor for Lutheran Social Services of Illinois.
Noble said having Ewoldsen around as a consultant would help with a smooth transition. Read More: SaukValley.com

Chamber Best Practice: Greater Richmond Chamber and Community College Workforce Alliance connect former HDL employees with potential new employers

The Greater Richmond Chamber and the Community College Workforce Alliance (CCWA) held a Career Opportunity Reception on December 17^th designed to connect former employees of Health Diagnostic Laboratory (HDL) with Richmond Region businesses that are looking to hire employees with similar skills.

“HDL is very appreciative that the Chamber and the CCWA took such an interest in our former employees,” said Scott Blackwell, senior vice president and chief human resources officer for HDL.“

Their rapid response will hopefully ensure that these very talented individuals find quality jobs in our region. I was overwhelmed by their initiative and concern, particularly during this busy time of the year.” Read more: Greater Richmond chamber

Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch: I found Wisconsin all over China

Perhaps you've had this same experience: You're traveling far from home and you spot a Green Bay Packers hat, a Badgers sweatshirt, or an "America's Dairyland" license plate. Seeing that slice of home instantly brings a smile to your face.
I had that moment half a world away in China at the American Chamber of Commerce in Beijing when I met Edward Tung, a business executive for Oshkosh Corp. It happened in Chengdu, when I ran into an employee who worked for a Brookfield-based financial services company. I had it in Shanghai, meeting Angel Yang, a vice president with Kohler Corp. In fact, my meeting with Angel took place at the Wisconsin Center in downtown Shanghai, across the street from a Kohler showroom. And everywhere I went, people knew Wisconsin ginseng, grown right here in Marathon County. Read more: Wausau Daily Herald

“American Pickers” is coming to Phillips County in January says Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Doug Friedlander.

“American Pickers” is coming to Phillips County in January says Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Doug Friedlander.

Friedlander reported Tuesday morning that the assistant producer of the History Channel’s reality series had contacted him Monday and requested him to help spread the word. Friedlander called it a “win-win” opportunity for the community and anyone that was selected to appear on the program.

In case you don’t know, “American Pickers” is a TV series that explores the fascinating world of antique “picking.” Two highly skilled “pickers” – Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz – crisscross the country searching for America’s most valuable antiques – from motorcycles, classic cars and bicycles to one-of-a-kind vintage memorabilia. Read more: Helena-Arkansas,com

Chamber partnerships: 'Big Mo' on the banks of the 'Mighty Mo': Installation underway for latest public art piece in Council Bluffs

The “Big Mo” is being installed on this side of the “Mighty Mo.
Created by internationally renowned sculptor Mark di Suvero, “Big Mo” is the latest addition to the Iowa West Foundation Public Art collection for Council Bluffs.

“It’s a big day for the Council Bluffs and the riverfront,” said Pete Tulipana, president and CEO of the Iowa West Foundation.

Installation ceremonies were held Tuesday near the southwest corner of Tom Hanafan River’s Edge Park.

The event was really a celebration for the Council Bluffs-Omaha region and the joint efforts of both communities to keep enhancing the riverfront, various dignitaries said.

Council Bluffs Mayor Matt Walsh said the city is privileged to be involved with partnerships with organizations such as Iowa West to create a spectacular park and a home to world-class art.

“We’re serious about regional partnerships,” said David Brown, president and CEO of the Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce. Read more:  Omaha.com

Chamber issue: Denny Sanford To Donate $25 Million For Scholarship Program

Philanthropist T. Denny Sanford is donating $25 million to South Dakota for a scholarship program for the state's technical schools.  Sanford tells KELOLAND News the state will match that $25 million for a total of $50 million going to the program.
First PREMIER Bank CEO Dana Dykhouse tells KELOLAND News that he and Miles Beacom, President and CEO of PREMIER Bankcard, approached Sanford about the workforce shortage in the state.  Dykhouse says the shortage affects not only First PREMIER, but all of its business customers.  Dykhouse says Sanford is enthusiastic about partnering with the state to solve the shortage, which has reached a near-crisis level.  Keloland Television

Chamber sponsorship: New themes for Minnesota higher education

If the first step to achieving positive change is widespread agreement that change is needed, then Minnesota is on its way to making higher education more effective, efficient and productive. But unless consensus about promising next steps follows soon, the wait could be long — too long, we fear, for employers already crying about a shortage of skilled workers.

Two high-level meetings in recent weeks made earnest attempts to achieve consensus. One, dubbed North Star Summit, involved 360 stakeholders and was hosted by state Senate higher education chair Terri Bonoff on Dec. 8. The smaller event on Dec. 17 was the last of three meetings of a “work group” on higher education affordability and completion rates. The Citizens League and the state Office of Higher Education convened the work group; the league was also among eight summit sponsors, which also included the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce. Read more: Editorial Board - Star Tribune


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