Indiana Chamber Statement on Governor Pence’s 2015 Education Agenda; Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Works! promote 'Hot Jobs' list; Chamber input: Wausau residents can speak about mayor vs. administrator issue Wednesday; Chamber news: $240M Expansion for CSL Behring at Kankakee Site; Chamber Tweet of the Day: Kentucky Chamber; Greater Bellevue Area chamber president Jim Ristow joins Nebraska state chamber; Royals GM will make return to Garden City as keynote speaker for Garden City Area Chamber; Spearfish Area Chamber speaker: 'Excelling through Ethics'; Search for Tahlequah Chamber director continues; Chamber spirit: Help root on one of Charles City’s own

Indiana Chamber Statement on Governor Pence’s 2015 Education Agenda

Indiana Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Kevin Brinegar comments on Governor Pence’s speech today outlining his 2015 legislative agenda in education:
“We applaud Governor Pence for taking the first step today to restoring the focus in our K-12 education system to our state’s young people and allowing them to prosper through high-performing teachers and schools.
“We look forward to continuing to work with educators, the administration, legislative leaders and all engaged in this area on enhancing our education system – which includes the Indiana Chamber priority of expanding high-quality preschool opportunities for low-income families – and empowering students.”
View the Indiana Chamber’s Top 7 legislative priorities at www.indianachamber.com/priorities. 

Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Works! promote 'Hot Jobs' list

The Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce is helping to get the word out about where jobs are in West Michigan.
The chamber recently announced Downtown Muskegon Now and it would help to promote Hot Jobs, a twice-a-year publication of Michigan Works! Muskegon-Oceana.
The list -- which the local Michigan Works! Office has been quietly publishing for a few years -- summarizes the number of job postings, average hourly wage, required education and projected job growth for hot jobs.
"Even though we've made great economic strides over the last few years, there's still a belief out there that there aren't jobs in Muskegon," said Brittany Lenertz, spokeswoman for Michigan Works! Muskegon-Oceana. "The truth is that there are a lot of great skilled jobs that employers are looking to fill." Read more: M Live

Chamber input: Wausau residents can speak about mayor vs. administrator issue Wednesday

Citizens of Wausau have four opportunities to speak about how if the city should have a mayor or a city manager, and two of those opportunities are Wednesday.
The Wausau Region Chamber of Commerce has stepped in and hired Public Administration Associates LLC to conduct a study on what’s good and not so good about each option. This third-party process eliminates the political influences of City Hall, but it does give citizens fewer chances to voice their opinions.
Chamber President Aaron Kapellusch says there are four meetings on two days, and today (Wed) is one of them.  “We set up a number of meetings to have some public input into this process, and I think it’s important with our consultant that we hired, Dr. Stephen Hintz, who’s really a great professional who has worked with communities through similar conversations many times. They really want to frame what’s going on here in Wausau locally, and put that in perspective when taking a look at the pros and cons of each form of governance.” Read more: WSAU.com

Chamber news: $240M Expansion for CSL Behring at Kankakee Site

Kankakee County's largest industry - global niche pharmaceutical leader CSL Behring -  announced a $240M expansion in October that will substantially increase the production of plasma intermediates. The expansion is expected to be completed in 2017, at which time 300,000 square feet will have been added to the site. CSL was honored in 2014 with an Edie Award by the Illinois Chamber of Commerce and Illinois Development Council for having one of the most significant economic impacts in the state. The Australia-based company, which has sister locations in 30 countries, has added 200 jobs at its Kankakee production facility since 2011. Read more at the Kankakee County chamber

Chamber Tweet of the Day: Kentucky Chamber

Kentucky Chamber ‏@KyChamber 19h19 hours ago

On the blog: Members of Health and Welfare Committee express support for smoke-free legislation http://kychamberblog.com/2014/12/17/members-of-health-and-welfare-committee-express-support-for-smoke-free-legislation/ …

Greater Bellevue Area chamber president Jim Ristow joins Nebraska state chamber

The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce & Industry announced that Jim Ristow will join the staff of the State Chamber. He will be responsible for continuing the efforts initiated under the State Chamber’s “Forging Nebraska’s Future” campaign.
Ristow has spent the last three years leading the Greater Bellevue Area Chamber of Commerce as the organization’s president and CEO. Prior to his service at the Bellevue Chamber, he was the regional publisher for Lee Enterprises and the Beatrice Daily Sun. He also previously worked as a circulation director for the Omaha World-Herald. Read more: Journal Star

Royals GM will make return to Garden City as keynote speaker for Garden City Area Chamber

Kansas City Royals General Manager Dayton Moore will be keynote speaker for the Garden City Area Chamber of Commerce annual banquet.
The 127th annual event is set for Feb. 5 at Garden City High School, 2720 Buffalo Way.

Moore, a 1987 graduate of Garden City Community College, was instrumental this past season in leading the Kansas City Royals to their first American League Championship and World Series berth since 1985. The Royals won 89 games in 2014, their high watermark since the 1989 season.

"Moore's history with the Royals is similar to that of many chamber members in that he has helped the Royals develop into a winning team through strong leadership, teamwork and dedication," said Chamber President Steve Dyer. Read more: hutchnews.com

Spearfish Area Chamber speaker: 'Excelling through Ethics'

Is it ethical to post something on social media that you do not know for sure is true? Is it ethical to take food at the end of a restaurant work shift that would otherwise be thrown away?
These were the types of questions local students considered during “Excelling Through Excellence,” a statewide Junior Achievement program presented annually to middle school and high school students. The program is designed to get students thinking about their personal ethics, morals, values, perspective, and character.
More than 350 business and community leaders in South Dakota lead the presentations, bringing in real-life examples of ethical dilemmas and decisions they have faced...
About 50 Spearfish High School students in Danielle Ligtenberg’s economics/personal finance classes participated in the presentations, led by guest speaker Melissa Barth, executive director of the Spearfish Area Chamber of Commerce. Read more: Black Hills Pioneer

Search for Tahlequah Chamber director continues

Tahlequah Area Chamber of Commerce President Steve Turner announced during his Dec. 16 report that the screening committee for the executive director position will hold two initial interviews later this week.
Turner told the Daily Press the panel is considering a third interview as well.
“After the initial interviews have been completed, we will determine which of the applicants should move forward for a second interview,” Turner said in his report. “The board will be included in the second interview.” As of press time Tuesday, the Chamber of Commerce had received seven applications for the position – five from within Oklahoma and two from out of state. Tahlequah Daily Press

Chamber spirit: Help root on one of Charles City’s own

The Charles City Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the University of Northern Iowa Athletic Department, is hosting a Chamber Day at the UNI men’s basketball game against Missouri State on Sunday afternoon, Jan. 18. Game time will be either 1 p.m. or 3 p.m. Anyone interested in attending the game at a discount price and supporting Charles City’s own Nate Buss, who plays for the Panthers, is encouraged to contact the Chamber office and reserve your seat. Regular seat price is $25 plus processing fees, but through this special promotion the Chamber can get a block of seats for $16 each. There will be a limited number of seats available together, so reserve your spot as soon as possible! Read more: KCHAnews.com

Fargo-Moorhead West Fargo Chamber initiative: Voices of Vision to present Terry Bradshaw as keynote speaker; Chamber economic Development: Med tech company hiring hundreds in western Wisconsin; chamber Tweet of the Day: Greater OKC Chamber; Chamber event: Akeley presents tourism improvements ideas under University of Minnesota program; Chamber concern: Workforce a top issue for Nebraska businesses; Guest column: Michigan must invest more money in transit, or pay the price for inaction; Lake Area (Missouri) Chamber honors members; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotations: (Attitude)

Fargo-Moorhead West Fargo Chamber initiative: Voices of Vision to present Terry Bradshaw as keynote speaker

Voices of Vision, a program that brings well-known and influential speakers to the Fargo-Moorhead area, has invited former Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Terry Bradshaw to talk about his take on success in business.
This is not the only year that Voices of Vision has brought a big name to this area. According to Craig Whitney, president and CEO of the Fargo-Moorhead Chamber of Commerce, the whole concept of this program is based on bringing well known and respected speakers to the Fargo-Moorhead market. Whitney started the event when he became CEO of the F-M Chamber of Commerce.
“The Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce is a bi-state, regional federation of over 2,100 private, public and non-profit member firms representing more than 94,000 people,” according to the Fargo-Moorhead Chamber website. “The Chamber advocates for a strong metropolitan community and supports the interests of its members, which are located in Cass and Clay Counties and beyond.” Read more: The Concordian

Chamber economic Development: Med tech company hiring hundreds in western Wisconsin

A medical technology company has announced a $30 million expansion that will create nearly 500 jobs in western Wisconsin.
Phillips-Medisize Corp. already employs 1,400 people at 12 facilities throughout Wisconsin. They've now announced plans for expansion, including projects already underway in New Richmond and Menomonie, and future expansions in Hudson, Phillips, Medford and Eau Claire.
" [The expansion] is really part of the objective that we're embarking on, which is an investment of $30 million over the next three years to really position us to take care of our customers and grow with the customers," said Phillips-Medisize Chairman and CEO Matt Jennings. Read more: KARE 11

Greater OKC Chamber ‏@okcchamber 3m3 minutes ago

The new edition of #VeloCity, #OKC's e-mag, is out! Read & share this energy-focused issue: http://goo.gl/Alx8Ul 

 

Chamber event: Akeley presents tourism improvements ideas under University of Minnesota program


Peg Davies of Akeley recently presented the preliminary findings of a University of Minnesota-supported study of sustainable tourism in Akeley.
Her presentation was one of five at a statewide meeting of the Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships (RSDP), which sponsored the project. The Sustainable Tourism Assessment for Small Communities selected five communities of fewer than 1,500 people in Minnesota and is based on the resources of the U of M Tourism Center.

Davies and other Akeley community members were able to compare findings with community representatives from Houston in southeast Minnesota, Warroad in the northwest, several communities surrounding Voyageurs National Park in northeastern Minnesota, and Clinton-Beardsley-Graceville in the southwest. Davies highlighted tourist assets that are being recognized by the Akeley Chamber of Commerce, such as geo-caching opportunities in the area, and areas for improvement, such as coordination with state agencies like the DNR. The community reports can be found on the University of Minnesota Tourism Center website: www.extension.umn.edu/community/tourism-development/  Read more: Walker MN Pilot-Independent

Chamber concern: Workforce a top issue for Nebraska businesses

The Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry says workforce issues are a top concern for businesses around the state.
The chamber released its annual survey this week of Nebraska business owners, executives and community leaders. About 39 percent of survey respondents identified workforce quality and availability as a major concern. Another 37 percent said federal regulations posed the biggest threat to businesses. Read more: Scottsbluff Star Herald

Guest column: Michigan must invest more money in transit, or pay the price for inaction

By Peter Varga and Richard K. Studley

Grand Rapids is now living up to its name.
Commuters recently began taking the 9.6-mile Silver Line Bus Rapid Transit System, which connects the southern end of the metropolitan area with Downtown and the Medical Mile. The new route cuts commuters' trips by more than a third -- and by easing congestion, improves other drivers' commutes as well.
Grand Rapids — and the entire state of Michigan — must continue to invest in projects like the Silver Line. Congress has to help them do so, by approving long-term funding for the federal Highway Trust Fund. Such investment not only guarantees the safety of Michigan's aging roads, bridges, ports, and public transport but also catalyzes economic growth and job creation.
If nothing is done to address Michigan's infrastructure needs, our state will unnecessarily fork over $7.7 billion a year in wasted fuel, lost time, and increased accidents, according to TRIP, a nonprofit organization that studies transportation issues. In Grand Rapids, drivers will find themselves paying an extra $1,000 each year. Read more: M LIVE

Lake Area (Missouri) Chamber honors members

The Lake Area Chamber of Commerce has announced the winners of the 2014 Community Awards presented Oct. 16 at Camden on the Lake during the Lake Area Chamber Annual Fall Dinner.
Four prestigious awards were given throughout the evening in the following categories: Non-Profit of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Large Business of the Year and Distinguished Citizen. Recipients of the awards were nominated by their peers during a month-long nomination process. Read more: LakeNewsOnline.com

Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotations: (Attitude)

“If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude.”

~Maya Angelou

 

Chamber Executive Ongoing Education Weekly New Idea (Leadership): The Virgin Way: Everything I Know about Leadership - by Richard Branson; Chamber good news: Google names Tulsa Oklahoma's 2014 ‘E-City'; Nebraska Chamber of Commerce endorses Pete Ricketts; Highland, Illinois Offers Tech Startups Chance to Win Big! St. Louis Regional Chamber, Highland Chamber of Commerce sponsorship; Chamber Economic Development: Northwest Arkansas Council Starts New Growth Plan; Hermantown Chamber asks Public Utilities Commission to stop pipeline delay; Chamber Tweet of the Day: Indiana Chamber; New digs for Keokuk non-profits, chamber; Chamber event: ‘One mile of fun’ at Octoberfest: Head to Appleton for largest one-day festival in Wisconsin; Chamber Directory or Map; Chamber government affairs: SD Candidates, issues discussed during forum; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotes: (Attitude): Supa Nova Slom

Chamber Executive Ongoing Education Weekly New Idea (Leadership): The Virgin Way: Everything I Know about Leadership by Richard Branson

With over 40 years in business, Richard Branson is an inspiring pioneer of humanitarian projects and an iconic business leader. In The Virgin Way: How to Listen, Learn, Laugh and Lead, Richard shares and distils his secrets of leadership and success. Featuring anecdotes from his own business dealings, as well as his observations of many others who have inspired him - from politicians, business leaders, explorers, scientists and philanthropists - Richard reflects on the qualities he feels are essential for success in today's world.

This is not a conventional book on leadership. There are no rules - but rather the secrets of leadership that he has learned along the way from his days at Virgin Records, to his recent work with The Elders. Whether you're at the beginning of your career, or head of a Fortune 500 company - this is your guide to being your own CEO (Chief Enabling Officer) and becoming a true leader - not just a boss.

Chamber good news: Google names Tulsa Oklahoma's 2014 ‘E-City'

Tulsa gained some national attention Monday for its digital savvy. Google named Tulsa Oklahoma’s 2014 "E-City." The company ranks cities in each state by the online presence of area small businesses. Officials say it affirms Tulsa’s commitment to supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs.

"We’ve had great success with innovation and entrepreneurship, great success with technology, and we think that this is recognition of that,” said Mike Neal, CEO, Tulsa Chamber of Commerce. Read more: KJRH2 - Tulsa

Nebraska Chamber of Commerce endorses Pete Ricketts

Republican Pete Ricketts’ business experience landed him an endorsement Monday from the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce.

Ricketts is the former chief financial officer for TD Ameritrade — a company founded by his father, Joe Ricketts. He is running against Democrat Chuck Hassebrook for Nebraska governor.

“Having helped grow a small Nebraska company into a large one, Pete has the kind of executive experience and fresh perspective needed in state government,” said Barry Kennedy, president of the state chamber. Read more: Omaha.com

Highland, Illinois Offers Tech Startups Chance to Win Big! St. Louis Regional Chamber, Highland Chamber of Commerce sponsorship

Now through Oct. 20, the city of Highland is offering technology-based startups a chance to win big.

The 2014 Highland Gigabit Challenge - the city’s first - is a business plan competition offering more than $40,000 in prizes to its winners. Highland’s event partner is the Metro East Small Business Development Center.

To win, the company must locate in Highland. The first-place price is $15,000. Prizes include startup funds, office space, Internet service and support via Highland’s Entrepreneurship Program.

“We want to attract high-growth startups who are able to use and promote our city’s state-of-the-art gigabit Internet service,” said Lisa Peck, Highland spokeswoman. “We’re one of a limited number of communities in the U.S. of this size who have invested in the infrastructure necessary to support gigabit- level Internet service.” Read more: St. Louis Post Dispatch

Chamber Economic Development: Northwest Arkansas Council Starts New Growth Plan

Northwest Arkansas has checked most of the boxes in its economic development plan and is working on a new one, Wayne Mays told legislators Friday.

Mays is president and chief executive officer of the Siloam Springs Chamber of Commerce. He joined area chamber leaders discussing economic development at a meeting of the Senate Committee on Insurance and Commerce at the World Trade Center Arkansas in Rogers.

"We just spent the last 48 hours in meetings planning the next three years," he said, adding he anticipates the council will announce the new goals in January. Read more:  NWAonline.

Hermantown Chamber asks Public Utilities Commission to stop pipeline delay

Hermantown Area Chamber of Commerce Board on Thursday voted unanimously to support a request to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to process the Sandpiper Pipeline application along the original timetable.

“It is imperative for the PUC to reverse their decision to delay the Sandpiper Project by as much as a year and to follow the original reasonable timetable of approval in early 2015” said Mike Lundstrom, Chamber executive director. “This delay threatens our region’s economic recovery due to an over reliance on rail delivery which has a stifling economic impact on product delivery of agriculture, coal, timber and taconite. It is especially troublesome given that pipeline delivery is documented as the safest mode of transport for crude oil and natural gas.” Read more: BusinessNorth.com

Chamber Tweet of the Day: Indiana Chamber

Indiana Chamber ‏@IndianaChamber 10m10 minutes ago

Kudos to @angieslist (Indy), expanding its headquarters and adding 1,000 jobs over next five years http://ow.ly/CRoda 

9:36 AM - 16 Oct 2014 · 

New digs for Keokuk non-profits, chamber

A former bank building at 429 Main St., Keokuk, will house six area non-profit organizations. Tuesday is moving day for several local non-profit organizations that will share space at 429 Main St., Keokuk.

More than 4,000 square feet are available at the old bank building for the Keokuk Area Chamber of Commerce, Main Street Keokuk Inc., Keokuk Area Convention and Tourism Bureau, Big River United Way, Volunteer Center of the Big River United Way and the Mississippi River Power 100 Museum.
Read more: Daily Gate City

Chamber event: ‘One mile of fun’ at Octoberfest: Head to Appleton for largest one-day festival in Wisconsin

It’s one mile of amazing food, live entertainment, arts and crafts booths and fun. It’s the largest one-day festival in Wisconsin and thousands of people stroll along College Street. It’s the annual Octoberfest in Appleton, Wisconsin, and it’s so much fun.

Thousands of people come to Appleton each year for food, family fun activities, live entertainment and arts and crafts. More than 100 vendors are located along College Avenue. The shops along the street are also open, providing more shopping opportunities.

Octoberfest is held on the Saturday of the last weekend in September of each year. The hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The food booths are all sponsored by non-profit organizations.Read more: Banks News Today

Chamber Directory or Map

Get a free estimate for your chamber on a professional gloss chamber map, chamber app, community profile or membership directory. Call John Dussman of Village Profile at (800)-600-0134 x239 or email jdussman.vp@villageprofilemail.com. If your chamber has 400 members or more, please ask about several multimedia options available, including our newest product, the iphone/android chamber app owned by you. 

Chamber government affairs: SD Candidates, issues discussed during forum

Three candidates from District 20 competing for two seats in the South Dakota House of Representatives disagreed on several issues at a forum Monday night, but agreed work needs to be done to maintain state's roads and bridges.

Rep. Tona Rozum, of Mitchell, and Joshua Klumb, of Mount Vernon, both Republicans, and James Schorzmann, of Mitchell, a Democrat, took part in the forum, which was held at Mitchell Technical Institute. The Mitchell Area Chamber of Commerce's Government Affairs Committee hosted the event, which was attended by nearly 50 people.

The two candidates who get the most votes in the Nov. 4 election will win two-year terms. District 20 includes Davison, Aurora and Jerauld counties.

While the candidates agreed about the importance of maintaining and improving the state's roads and bridges, questions remained about where the funding will come from. Read more: insurancenewsnet.com

Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotes: (Attitude): 

“The worst disability in life is a bad attitude.”  - Supa Nova Slom

 

Chamber president: Leadership Green Bay benefits companies, community; Governor/Chamber Teamwork: Manufacturers provide lots of jobs in Nebraska; U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell welcomed members of the Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce to his office in the United States Capitol earlier this week; Lansing chamber recognizes young leaders; Iowa City Chamber roundtable: Johnson County officials bring the Iowa BIG program to Iowa City schools; Chamber Economic Development: TQL to add 50 logistics jobs in NWA, part of growing Arkansas sector; Highwood, Illinois Chamber of Commerce Unveils the Pumpkin Project; Chamber cutting edge: Hackensack Chainsaw Event is all-around success; Shawnee Chamber Task force names downtown priorities; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation: (Attitude)

Chamber president: Leadership Green Bay benefits companies, community
This past month marked the opening retreat for the 31st class of Leadership Green Bay.
The two-day retreat orients the 42 participants to the program during a two-day experience that both kicks off their leadership experience as well as provides opportunities for class members to learn about each other on both professional and personal levels.
That becomes particularly important as they progress in the program and pursue small group projects that benefit the greater Green Bay community.
In the process of selecting and executing a small group project, they collaborate, fundraise, make decisions, define assignments, create ownership, and experience diversified perspectives and other fundamentals to managing a project in a small team setting. Read more: Green Bay Gazette

Governor/Chamber Teamwork: Manufacturers provide lots of jobs in Nebraska


This month, we are celebrating Nebraska Manufacturing Month. This is a good time to reaffirm our commitment to Nebraska’s manufacturing base and to the industry which has helped our state become one of the strongest in the nation.
To grow our manufacturing base, we must make the most of opportunities which will help communities attract investments that ensure long-term growth. This takes a concerted effort to develop the workforce needed by manufacturers.

Nebraska exports to more than 170 countries, selling manufactured goods and services totaling more than $7 billion dollars. Manufacturers employ nearly 10 percent of Nebraska’s workforce. The average manufacturing job in Nebraska pays nearly $55,000 annually. Read more: Kearney Hub 

U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell welcomed members of the Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce to his office in the United States Capitol earlier this week.

Senator McConnell was greeted by Paducah Mayor, Gayle Kaler, and spoke with more than 30 community and business leaders about the President's foreign policy in regards to defeating ISIL, our nation's economy and the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant.
Senator McConnell said, "I always enjoy visiting with Paducah's community leaders during their visits to Washington, D.C. and when I'm back home in Kentucky. I want to thank Mayor Kaler and the Chamber for bringing community and business leaders to our Nation's Capital to advocate for Paducah priorities and discuss important issues with the Kentucky Congressional Delegation and the U.S. Department of Energy." Story and photo here: SurfKY.com

Senator McConnell was greeted by Paducah Mayor, Gayle Kaler, and spoke with more than 30 community and business leaders about the President's foreign policy in regards to defeating ISIL, our nation's economy and the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant.
Senator McConnell said, "I always enjoy visiting with Paducah's community leaders during their visits to Washington, D.C. and when I'm back home in Kentucky. I want to thank Mayor Kaler and the Chamber for bringing community and business leaders to our Nation's Capital to advocate for Paducah priorities and discuss important issues with the Kentucky Congressional Delegation and the U.S. Department of Energy."

Lansing chamber recognizes young leaders

Some of the Lansing area's top young professionals were honored Tuesday at the eighth annual "10 Over the Next Ten" awards ceremony at the University Club.
This year's list of winners includes a member of the Ingham County Board of Commissioners, two attorneys, a YMCA director who also works to revitalize downtown Lansing and owns a therapy dog and a local man who works to develop entrepreneurship. The event was hosted by the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce and Grand River Connection. The winners: Read more: Lansing State Journal

Iowa City Chamber roundtable: Johnson County officials bring the Iowa BIG program to Iowa City schools 

A project-based education initiative is expanding from its roots in Cedar Rapids to area schools in Johnson County. Iowa BIG was created to explore educational options other than classroom “textbook-focused” settings deemed necessary for every student to be successful.

Iowa BIG representatives, along with Iowa City School District officials, described the importance of the program’s community engagement at a joint roundtable event held by the Iowa City Area Chamber of Commerce on Monday at the Coralville Marriott Hotel. “Education shouldn’t be a one-size-fits-all system,” said Ann Feldmann, the assistant superintendent for the School District. “Creating options for kids, rather than just focusing on one, creates a better learning environment for all kinds of students.” Read more: The Daily Iowan

Chamber Economic Development: TQL to add 50 logistics jobs in NWA, part of growing Arkansas sector

 Retail is king in Northwest Arkansas, but the logistics sector is growing. Total Quality Logistics (TQL), one of the largest freight brokerage firms in the nation, announced Tuesday (Sept. 16) plans to open an office in Lowell that could house up to 50 jobs.

“Rogers and Lowell have a long history of working together to welcome new companies to the Northwest Arkansas business family,” Raymond Burns, president and CEO of the Rogers-Lowell Chamber of Commerce, said in the statement. “The entire area is glad to see a strong company such as TQL planting roots in Lowell, and we are looking forward to seeing the company grow and prosper here.” Read more: The City Wire

Highwood, Illinois Chamber of Commerce Unveils the Pumpkin Project

The Highwood Chamber of Commerce will unveil their Pumpkin Project on Saturday September 27th starting at 6:00pm at The Toadstool Pub, 327 Waukegan Avenue, Highwood. Local business and artists have joined forces to decorate theis streets of Downtown Highwood in this outdoor public art exhibit to coincide with the Fifth Annual Great Highwood Pumpkin Fest from October 17-19, 2014. The Pumpkin Project will feature 25 beautifully sculpted and designed artificial pumpkins on display throughout the streets of the Downtown Highwood business district, beginning September 28.
The pumpkins will then be moved to Pumpkin Fest Grounds where a Pumpkin Project Tent will have all 25 creations on display for a silent auction. Winners will be announced at Pumpkin Fest on Sunday, October 19th at 7:00pm.

Chamber cutting edge: Hackensack Chainsaw Event is all-around success

With more carvers, more vendors and larger crowds than last year,  the 10th annual Hackensack Chainsaw Event Sept. 26-28 was an all-around success.
Perfect fall weather and beautiful fall colors set the stage for three days of  nonstop chainsaw carving and the ever-popular popular All-American Lumberjack Show.

The weekend concluded with Sunday’s auction of all the chainsaw carvings, created by a dozen master carvers from Minnesota and five other states. Read more: The Pilot-Independent

Shawnee Chamber Task force names downtown priorities

The Greater Shawnee Chamber of Commerce met Wednesday. Both the Chamber's Downtown Shawnee Task Force and the Education Task Force gave reports to the group. Linda Agee, a member of the Downtown Shawnee Task Force, said the group has been working on identifying the needs of the downtown area and finding ways to accomplish those goals. Read more: Shawnee News-Star

Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation: (Attitude)

"Your behavior creates your brand" Conor Cunneen, author of SHEIFGAB

Ross Summers announces his retirement; Branson Lakes Chamber of Commerce Looking for New CEO; Arkansas Works Better When Arkansans Vote (Randy Zook, President/CEO, Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce Feedback); Rauner announces endorsement from Illinois Chamber of Commerce; St. Cloud Minnesota Chamber honored nationally for retention; Iowa Great Lakes Area Chamber has new president; Chamber Tweet of the Day: Tulsa Regional Chamber; Chamber Spotlight: October: Nebraska Manufacturing Month; Kentucky Chamber Goals: Put young kids first to improve our education system; Terre Haute Chamber partnership: Community Collaboration launches Wabash Valley Leadership Institute; Drumright Oklahoma Chamber of Commerce to Host 42nd Annual "Oilpatch Jamboree"; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation: (Leadership)

Ross Summers announces his retirement; Branson Lakes Chamber of Commerce Looking for New CEO


Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau is looking for a new  President and CEO. Ross Summers, the current President and CEO announced his retirement earlier this week after twelve years of service.
Board of Directors President, Steve Critchfield, says  yesterday the board  approved a third party to search for a candidate. Read more: KRKZ.com

Arkansas Works Better When Arkansans Vote (Randy Zook, President/CEO, Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce Feedback)

Two months ago I shared an update about the agenda of our Arkansas State Chamber of Commerce/Associated Industries of Arkansas in this paper. There I alluded to our business community’s efforts in this important election, saying “employers have a unique opportunity to help their employees understand the effect of government on the business environment and the outlook for employees’ jobs.”
The midterm election is less than 50 days away. And employers in our state recognize that Arkansas and America can do better than having a 14 percent approval rating of Congress. Read more: Arkansas Business

Rauner announces endorsement from Illinois Chamber of Commerce 

There was another business endorsement Friday in race for Illinois governor. The Illinois Chamber of Commerce is backing Republican candidate Bruce Rauner, while incumbent Democrat Pat Quinn stressed Friday that he has created a lot of jobs in the state. The National Federation of Independent Business and the Illinois Manufacturers Association have already endorsed Rauner, so the announcement was no surprise. At the P.M. Mold Company, a family-owned plastics fabricator in Schaumburg, Rauner announced he'd been endorsed by the Illinois Chamber of Commerce. 

St. Cloud Minnesota Chamber honored nationally for retention

The St. Cloud Area Chamber of Commerce recently received three membership achievement awards for retention from the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives at the ACCE national convention.
Recognition is reserved for chambers that score in the nation's top ten in their total revenue range in three areas: member retention of total accounts, member retention of total dues and new member accounts.
The St. Cloud Area Chamber earned recognition in all three areas. Overall, the Chamber's membership retention totaled 93.27 percent in dues, 90.54 percent in accounts and 77.55 percent in new member accounts. Read more: Saint Cloud Times


Iowa Great Lakes Area Chamber has new president

A familiar name -- and voice -- will be the new face of the Iowa Great Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce. Jeff Thee, longtime local television host Jeff Thee was recently named the organization's president and CEO. The Spirit Lake City Councilman will succeed Tom Kuhlman, who served the chamber for the past 33 years. Kuhlman announced his retirement in the spring of 2014.
Thee will officially begin his chamber leadership duties on Monday, Nov. 3.
"We are excited about the leadership that Jeff can bring to the Chamber," incoming board chairman Norm Johnson said. "We feel that Jeff can lead us in a direction that will connect our Lakes Area together and bring about welcome opportunity for new and existing members."Read more: Dickinson County News

Chamber Tweet of the Day: Tulsa Regional Chamber

TulsaRegionalChamber ‏@TulsaChamber 58m58 minutes ago

Boost your company with these tips for workplace inclusion: http://bit.ly/10mLx5C 

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Chamber Spotlight: October: Nebraska Manufacturing Month

Gov. Dave Heineman touted Nebraska’s manufacturing industry Tuesday and previewed the 2014 Salute to Manufacturing tour to be held later this month.

Joined by Barry Kennedy, President of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Chamber Chairman Chris Roth, President and CEO of Reinke Manufacturing Company in Deshler, Heineman signed a proclamation officially declaring the month of October to be Nebraska Manufacturing Month.

Nebraska exports to more than 170 countries, selling manufactured goods and services totaling more than $7 billion. Manufacturers employ nearly 10 percent of Nebraska’s workforce. The average manufacturing job in Nebraska pays nearly $55,000 annually. Read more: North Platte Bulletin

Kentucky Chamber Goals: Put young kids first to improve our education system

Four years ago the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region created a set of "Bold Goals" for education, income and health to be achieved by the year 2020. The collective vision has now been endorsed by more than 250 of our region's leading business, civic, education, government, philanthropic, and nonprofit organizations.
As chair of the United Way campaign in Northern Kentucky this year, and as co-chair of the regional Read On! campaign, I've been referencing these goals during every meeting and event.
Why? Because these goals need to be met if we are to have a thriving community and the quality of life we all want.
Of all the goals, I believe the Kindergarten Readiness Bold Goal is the most important to achieve long-term success. Decades of research by economists, neuroscientists and educators show that early childhood education is the biggest "bang for the buck." Investments in the early years of a child's life, including high-quality preschool, result in long-term gains for students and significant savings for governments and taxpayers. Read more:  Cincinatti.com

Terre Haute Chamber partnership: Community Collaboration launches Wabash Valley Leadership Institute

Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) and the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce announce the launch of the Wabash Valley Leadership Institute (WVLI) presented by Duke Energy. As a collaborative effort between the two organizations and with the support of community organizations and sponsors, the purpose of the WVLI is to engage and energize leadership efforts in the Wabash Valley. Program curriculum will focus on leadership skills with the intended effects of personal growth in leadership, organizational behavioral skills and potential community growth in a leadership capacity.

"Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is committed to the partnership with Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce to implement a high energy, trend-setting leadership development program that will empower and equip the next generation of community leaders," said Dottie King, Ph.D., president, SMWC. "As a higher education institution, we have a social responsibility to provide educational support to the Wabash Valley, and I look forward to seeing the success of these graduates and even more to the impact they will make on the west central Indiana region," added King.Read more: Terre Haute Chamber

Drumright Oklahoma Chamber of Commerce to Host 42nd Annual "Oilpatch Jamboree"

The Drumright Chamber of Commerce will host the 42nd annual "Oilpatch Jamboree" in Drumright, Oklahoma on Saturday, October 4th. The event will be packed full of family fun and entertainment, including the world-famous "Oilpatch Parade," live music, "Jamboree Jog," "Smokin' In The Patch" barbeque cook-off, and many other activities for people of all ages. Read more: 1600KUSH.com

Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation: (Leadership) 

Where there is no vision, the people perish. — Proverbs

Chamber Good News: 5 Iowa cities on Top 100 Best Places to Live list; Chamber study: Economic impact of University of Missouri athletics estimated at $247.1 million; Chamber news: First Leadership South Dakota class chosen; Chamber business: INVESTIndiana Returns Sept. 23; Chamber Resource: Brian Doudna to lead Wisconsin Economic Development Association; Chamber Tweet of the Day: Oklahoma Chamber in Washington DC; U.S. Chamber study follow-up: 3 Oklahoma universities named among most affordable; Elmhurst Plans September Celebrations Around Chamber of Commerce Week; Chamber update: Nebraska facing lack of skilled workers; New Ulm (Minnesota) Chamber Announces Taste of New Ulm, Food Tour Event; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation (Attitude)

Chamber Good News: 5 Iowa cities on Top 100 Best Places to Live list

Five Iowa cities have been named to this year's Top 100 Best Places to Live by Livability.com. This year Iowa City ranked 10th, Ames was 30th, West Des Moines was 57 on the list with Cedar Rapids at 65 and Des Moines at 82.The listing for Des Moines says , "One of the wealthiest cities in America is Des Moines, the capital of Iowa and a major headquarters for finance, insurance and publishing. The health industry is well-represented by four major hospitals and a cancer center, while the community’s quality of life is enhanced by 76 parks, three golf courses and three family aquatic centers."
"It's great to see Ames on this list for the second year in a row," said Dan Culhane in a news release. He is Ames Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development President and CEO. Read more: KCCI 8 NEWS

Chamber study: Economic impact of University of Missouri athletics estimated at $247.1 million

For Columbia businesses, University of Missouri athletic events play a crucial role in their bottom lines. But the economic impact of MU sporting events is even broader than that, and the influence seems to be growing with construction work on venues and visitors pumping money into the local economy.
At a news conference Friday, University of Missouri MBA students Parker Leppein and Heather Webster presented the results of their economic impact survey of MU athletics in Columbia. The study, which Leppein and Webster conducted with five other students, found that MU athletic events had a total economic impact of just more than $247.1 million last year. The Trulaske College of Business has partnered with the Columbia Chamber of Commerce for five years to conduct the study. Read more: Columbia Daily Tribune

Chamber news: First Leadership South Dakota class chosen

The inaugural class of Leadership South Dakota has been chosen. The program will provide class members with the background information, experiences and insights necessary to assume leadership positions at community, state and national levels. It's being offered by the South Dakota Community Foundation in partnership with Dakota Educational Consulting. The 41 participants are: Read more: Argus Leader

Chamber business: INVESTIndiana Returns Sept. 23

Leading Indiana companies will participate in the fourth INVESTIndiana Equity Conference on September 23 at the Conrad Indianapolis.
Fund managers, analysts and institutional investors are primary attendees, with the event open to others in the business community. An Executive Roundtable opens the day. The keynote speaker is William Testa of the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. Twelve companies, including six financial institutions, are scheduled to make presentations.
They cover the state, including 1st Source Corporation (South Bend), Escalade (Evansville), Hillenbrand (Batesville) and nine others. Full information and registration is available online.


Chamber Resource: Brian Doudna to lead Wisconsin Economic Development Association

The Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA) is pleased to welcome Brian Doudna of Eau Claire as its first full-time executive director.
Doudna has 25 years of experience and commitment to economic development, including ten years as executive director of the Eau Claire Area Economic Development Corporation (EDC).

“The board of directors started a search for our first full-time executive director with the mission to find a candidate who was active in economic development, with proven ability to grow an organization and proven leadership to advance a vision,” says WEDA President Patrick Schloss. “We found that in Brian Doudna. Brian has knowledge and experience in workforce development, cultivating new businesses, promoting innovation, and much more.” Read more: Leader-Telegram

Chamber Tweet of the Day: Oklahoma Chamber in Washington DC


Ok State Chamber ‏@okstatechamber 1h

Thank you to OK's senior Senator @jiminhofe for addressing #DCFlyIn2014 & all you do to protect business!

 

U.S. Chamber study follow-up: 3 Oklahoma universities named among most affordable

Three Oklahoma schools made the list of 50 Great Affordable Colleges in the Midwest in an article on the website Great Value Colleges.

Of the hundreds of accredited colleges and universities in the Midwest, only those with tuition fees below the national average were considered for the rankings. No college on the list has a net price (the total cost of attendance minus the average aid package) over $22,000.

Equal points were awarded for beneficial features, such as low faculty-to-student ratios, high percentages of freshmen retention, high rates of graduation and numbers of student organizations. Colleges that did well in a recent Forbes’ ranking of top U.S. schools were given additional points. Read more: NewsOK.com

Elmhurst Plans September Celebrations Around Chamber of Commerce Week

September 4, 2014 - In celebration of Chamber of Commerce Week in Illinois, the Elmhurst Chamber of Commerce & Industry is sponsoring a month of networking, educational and special events, as well as staging our annual new member recruitment campaign.
At the request of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn has proclaimed September 8-12 as Chamber of Commerce Week in Illinois.
Mayoral Proclamation
Elmhurst Mayor Steve Morley has issued a Mayoral Proclamation declaring September 8-12 as Chamber of Commerce Week in Elmhurst. Read more: Chicago Tribune

 

Chamber update: Nebraska facing lack of skilled workers



Two state chamber officials told Rotary Club members on Tuesday that the biggest issue facing Nebraska’s employers is finding workers with the necessary skills to fill their jobs.
Barry Kennedy, president of the Nebraska Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and Jamie Karl, vice president for public affairs and policy, made their remarks as part of a statewide tour to talk to business people about the issues they believe will face the next session of the Legislature.

Karl said the state chamber did a survey and asked employers the following question: “Have you had difficulty in hiring qualified employees in the past year?” Read more: Grand Island Independent

New Ulm (Minnesota) Chamber Announces Taste of New Ulm, Food Tour Event

The New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce would like to announce its first ever “Taste of New Ulm”, food tour event, which will take place Oct. 11, during Oktoberfest celebrations, in New Ulm. The “Taste of New Ulm” is a perfect opportunity for visitors and guests to try the different entrees and desserts from various locations around the German town.
The New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce collaborated with six different restaurants and businesses in the historic downtown to create a culinary adventure. Read more: SouthernMinn.com

Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotation (Attitude):

“Life is like a roller coaster. It has its ups and downs…but it’s your choice to either scream or enjoy the ride. Be Positive... enjoy the ride.” - Author Unknown

www.emilysquotes.com