What do the Big Tax Reform Changes Mean for Your Small Business? We’ve Got Answers; Jack Russell to Become Chief Operating Officer of OneZone; #FamousChamberof Commerce Quotations: (Cheer Up!); Troy Chamber Hosts Expert Panel to Discuss Future of Autonomous Vehicles; Waterloo Chamber of Commerce hires Roberta Rohwedder as new Executive Director; Gov. Bevin appoints new Commissioner for the Department of Workforce Investment; Chamber accepting nominations for the 47th Annual Citizen of the Year Honoree; Fox Cities Chamber to Recognize Award Recipients at 2018 Business Awards Luncheon; Greater Reston Chamber: Hitting the Brakes on Healthcare Spending; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.

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

What do the Big Tax Reform Changes Mean for Your Small Business? We’ve Got Answers.

As business leaders are all too aware, tax day happened last month – an annual occurrence dreaded by the nearly 30 million small business owners operating in the United States. Congress wanted to make April 15, 2019 less painful for businesses on Main Street and to give employees more money in their paychecks between now and then, and they did so by passing into law the “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017.”
Our biggest piece of advice for small businesses – right now – is don’t wait until 2019 to talk with your tax advisor or CPA about how you can benefit from tax reform that applies to this year's earnings. Tax planning is part of what you are paying your tax professional to do for you, not just the annual chore of tax filing. Take advantage of his or her years of tax experience outside of tax season, when she will have more time to help you plan to keep more of your money in your business.
The new tax law provides several exciting developments for small business owners. But the first thing to remember is that many of the basic nuts and bolts of tax planning have not changed: quarterly estimated payments should be done as usual; the most common business expenses like legal and professional services, supplies and equipment, business travel, and business meals have virtually the same rules as before tax reform (but talk to your tax professional about entertainment expenses and state and local income tax deductions). There were zero changes made to self-employed retirement plans like SEP-IRAs and SIMPLES. There was no change at all, unfortunately, to the self-employment tax, the net investment income tax, or the additional Medicare surtax.
Here are some of the things that have changed. First, income tax rates have come down across the board for all small business owners. What was a six bracket structure ranging from 10% to 39.6% is now a seven bracket structure ranging from 10% to 37%. In between those low and high rates, brackets are wider and rates are lower than before.

Qualified business income

In addition, Congress has created a further de facto rate reduction for small business owners. It’s known as the “qualified business income” (QBI) deduction, and it’s gotten a lot of attention. Because this is taxes, it’s a little complex. The best way to think of it is to envision two separate sets of QBI rules: one for businesses in households making less than $315,000 in taxable income (income after accounting for all deductions, including itemized deductions) per year, and one for everyone else.
If you’re married and your taxable income is less than $315,000 per year ($157,500 if you’re not married), the QBI rule is very simple: take your business profit (that is, net profit from a trade or business that flows from your Schedule C, E, or F) and claim a deduction for 20% of that amount. Simple and easy. Your business profit’s tax rate is thereby reduced by 20%. Read more: U.S. Chamber



Jack Russell to Become Chief Operating Officer of OneZone

(Carmel & Fishers, IN) – OneZone, a Hamilton County chamber of commerce, today announced that Jack Russell has been named Chief Operating Officer and will join the organization on May 14. As COO, Jack will take on responsibility for the marketing, communications and operational aspects of the organization, along with oversight of member acquisition and retention, member services and events.

Jack comes to OneZone from the Westfield Chamber of Commerce, where he served as president. A graduate of Indiana University, he previously worked in marketing, sales and business development at Continental, Inc. in Anderson.

Mo Merhoff, OneZone President, said, “We’re looking forward to Jack’s joining us at an exciting time for OneZone. We are in the first year of a broad, aspirational strategic plan and welcome his being part of the team.”

#FamousChamberof Commerce Quotations: (Cheer Up!)


“If God had a refrigerator, your picture would be on it." -Max Lucado




Troy Chamber Hosts Expert Panel to Discuss Future of Autonomous Vehicles

Four prominent auto tech companies in SE Michigan to highlight how mobility will shape our future

On Wednesday, May 23, the Troy Chamber of Commerce will host Connect Troy, an engaging panel discussion featuring four prominent automotive tech companies that are championing the future of autonomous vehicles. The panel will highlight their contributions to the driverless car and provide insight on how mobility will shape our future. The event will be held from 8-9:30 a.m. at Altair, 1820 E Big Beaver Rd, Troy.

President & CEO of the Troy Chamber, Ara Topouzian, explains that Connect Troy is a great opportunity to interact with these automotive companies as they share their vision of Michigan’s role in the future of autonomous vehicles.

“As the economy continues to rebound, the auto industry is moving quickly to perfect autonomous vehicles,” said Topouzian. “The future is now when it comes to the technology being developed and Connect Troy will allow businesses to hear from some of the major players and what they are doing within this space.”

The panel of experts include: Tom Toma, Product Manager at Magna Electronics; Amine Taleb PhD, R&D Director at Valeo Comfort and Driving Assistance Systems NA; Scott Morell, VP of Engineering at Danlaw Technologies; Mike Thoeny, Managing Director of Automated Driving at Aptiv, and moderator Chester Dawson, Senior Reporter at Wall Street Journal.

“I am looking forward to share Danlaw’s work in connected vehicle systems at Connect Troy,” says Scott Morell, VP of Engineering at Danlaw Technologies. “It will be interesting to discuss with the other panelists how each of our companies’ solutions can bring greater safety and convenience to transportation.”

The event is sponsored by Altair, Hitachi Business Finance, Oakland County, WWJ 950 AM, Inteva Products, Drury Hotels and SS Digital Media. The cost is $25 for Troy Chamber members and $40 for non-members and includes breakfast. Register at troychamber.com/events. For more information call 248-641-8151 or e-mail: theteam@troychamber.com


Waterloo Chamber of Commerce hires Roberta Rohwedder as new Executive Director

The Board of Directors and myself are excited to inform you that we have hired Roberta Rohwedder as our new Executive Director.  She is currently employed at Midland State Bank here in Waterloo.  Roberta and her husband live in the Waterloo area.  Her starting date will be  May 16, 2018.   We are planning to have an Open House to meet and greet Roberta on May 16th between 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm.  Food and beverages will be served.  Please stop in and give Roberta a big welcome to the Chamber.  Hope to see you there!
Thank you,
Leigh A. McNicholas
President
Waterloo Chamber of Commerce

Waterloo Chamber Of Commerce EnjoyWaterloo.com




Gov. Bevin appoints new Commissioner for the Department of Workforce Investment

Ray Leathers, of Shelbyville, a decorated U.S. Army veteran with 40 years of experience in the manufacturing industry, was appointed commissioner of the Department of Workforce Investment, replacing Beth Kuhn. Kuhn will now be overseeing the community engagement component of Kentucky HEALTH through the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.

“Ray Leathers is bringing 40 years of his private sector workforce experience to the public sector,” said Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet Interim Secretary Don Parkinson. “This experience will pay great dividends when it comes to helping bridge the gap between employers and the state’s workforce development efforts, especially as we introduce the community engagement component of Kentucky HEALTH to some Medicaid recipients this year.”

Leathers joined the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet in October to serve as a liaison between the 10 Kentucky workforce boards and the cabinet. He retired in 2017 as the President/CEO of Roll Forming Corporation, responsible for six facilities in three states.

“Representing the Education and Workforce Development Cabinet in my previous role as has afforded me the opportunity to work closely with cabinet agencies and workforce board staffs across the state,” said Leathers. “I have been extremely impressed with the professionalism, enthusiasm, and engagement I have encountered in every organization. Accordingly, I will endeavor to empower and partner with the all the professionals that deliver vital services necessary to improve Kentucky’s workforce participation and optimize employer engagement.”

In 2010, the Kentucky Association of Manufacturing named Leathers the Manufacturing Employee of the Year. He served in multiple roles in Shelby County, including the industrial association, the industrial development foundation and the chamber of commerce. Read more: Lane Report

Chamber accepting nominations for the 47th Annual Citizen of the Year Honoree

    The Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for 2018 Citizen of the Year for the Oxford/Lafayette County/University community.  

Each year since 1972, the Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce has sought to recognize individuals who have made positive contributions to Oxford, Lafayette County and the University of Mississippi as its Citizen of the Year.

If you know of someone who has benefited and made a direct, lasting impact on our community through volunteer service, please help to recognize them by submitting their name as a nominee for 47th Annual Citizen of the Year.  A completed nomination form, a typewritten biography of the individual and three nomination letters are required for each nomination.  

Last year’s honoree for Citizen of the Year was Darlene Copp. For a complete list of past recipients go to https://oxfordms.com/chamber-of-commerce/programs-and-events/citizen-of-the-year/. 

Candidates will be judged on the basis of the following criteria:  1) Positive contributions to the Oxford/Lafayette/University community; 2) Contributions above and beyond those normally expected in an elective or appointive office, or above and beyond mere success in a business or profession; and 3) Perception as a role model for good citizenship and volunteerism in a non-paid capacity.

No candidate shall be discriminated against because of race, creed, color, age, sex or national origin. Consideration of candidates shall be in strict confidence and no announcement of the successful candidate will be made prior to the Chamber/EDF Annual Meeting Luncheon, scheduled for May 16, 2018. 

To get more information, a nomination form, or to inquire about the guidelines for Citizen of the Year, stop by the Chamber office, located at 299 Jackson Avenue West, or call 662-234-4651 or log on to www.oxfordms.com.  

Fox Cities Chamber to Recognize Award Recipients at 2018 Business Awards Luncheon

The Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce will recognize its 2018 Business Awards recipients at their annual Business Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, May 15, 2018. These annual awards recognize businesses and organizations in the Fox Cities that help make this a vibrant, innovative and dynamic community. The awards are given based on leadership, dedication and achievement.

The 2018 Business Awards recipients are:

Business of the Year:

Service, Large Employer – Best Western Premier Bridgewood Resort Hotel & Conference Center

Service, Small Employer – ABT Foundation Solutions, Inc.

Manufacturing – JP Graphics, Inc.

Company Innovation:

Blue Door Consulting

Corporate Citizen/Leadership:

Large Employer – Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction, Inc.

Small Employer – A2Z Design, LLC

Exemplary Marketing Performance:

Large Employer – Security Luebke Roofing

Small Employer – Nutritional Healing, LLC

Rising Star:

JumpStart Auto Repair

Learn more at foxcitieschamber.com

Where: Red Lion Hotel Paper Valley (formerly known as Radisson Paper Valley Hotel),

333 W. College Avenue, Appleton

When: Tuesday, May 15, 2018

Time:

11:30 AM – 12:00 PM Registration & Networking

12:00 PM – 1:30 PM Lunch & Awards Program

Fees:

Fox Cities Chamber Members - $40/each or $350/table of 10

General Admission - $50/each or $450/table of 10

Sponsors: Presenting Sponsor – Valley Packaging Industries; Contributing Sponsor – Schenck SC; Supporting Sponsor – Hoffman Planning, Design & Construction, Inc.; Multi-Media Sponsor – BConnected, LLC

For more information, please contact Kristen Greiner, Events Manager, at the Fox Cities Chamber by phone (920) 734-7101 or email kgreiner@foxcitieschamber.com.



Greater Reston Chamber: Hitting the Brakes on Healthcare Spending

Wednesday, May 9
8:30 - 10:00 am
Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce

MaryEllen Elie, Regional Market Lead (MD, DC, VA) for Interactive Health Inc. and member of the Healthy Workplaces Committee, will present on how wellness programs can drive your business forward by minimizing the rising tide of healthcare cost.

Over 50% of the U.S. population is living with serious chronic conditions including diabetes, heart disease and depression.

The solution: intervention and prevention through a well-designed wellness program.

Learn More or Register

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

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

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

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

P3 Kentucky to help leaders with public-private partnerships, infrastructure; Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce: Landscaping Camp May 26-28; Instagram of the Week: Geneva Chamber of Commerce; Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory; Flint & Genesee Chamber eTEAM Recognizes Rising Star, Spark Award Recipients; Chamber’s Leadership Fredericksburg Graduates Tenth Class; #FamousChamber of Commerce Quatation: (Peace of Mind); From Shelli Williams, ICEA: Career opportunity: One Zone Accepting Resumes For Membership Development Director Position; Sparta school superintendent to head Chamber of Commerce; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.

Happy Friday, #Chamber World! Have a GREAT Memorial Day weekend!

P3 Kentucky to help leaders with public-private partnerships, infrastructure

New law paves way for water/sewer, economic development and other investments

LOUISVILLE (May 15, 2017) – P3 Kentucky, a new communications hub, will help inform and connect Kentucky’s local and state leaders who are considering public-private partnerships to solve pressing needs for water and sewer improvements, economic development projects and other public infrastructure investments.

To mark the start of National Infrastructure Week, P3 Kentucky on Monday launched its new website, P3KY.com, and is distributing e-newsletters to more than 4,000 local, state, economic development and business leaders.

Thanks to Gov. Matt Bevin and the Kentucky General Assembly, Kentucky now has one of the nation’s most expansive laws to encourage the use of public-private partnerships for public infrastructure needs. P3 isn’t a funding source, it’s a financing tool that can provide both upfront capital and private-sector expertise to move projects to construction.

While some Kentucky cities and state cabinets have successfully used P3, the financing tool is still unfamiliar to many local and state leaders who have relied on traditional bonding or annual budgets to pay for public infrastructure.

“Our mission is to educate and connect the thousands of leaders across the Commonwealth who have the power to combine business-minded innovation and public-minded investments,” said Ed Green, editor of P3 Kentucky. “Experience tells us big things can happen when the public and private sectors work together to find solutions.”

P3 Kentucky is a venture of C2 Strategic Communications, a Louisville-based communications firm that focuses on transportation, economic development and community improvement projects.

Leading statewide groups supporting P3 Kentucky

The statewide groups that pushed for the changes in Kentucky’s P3 law are supporting the communications venture by serving on the P3 Kentucky Roundtable, a group of thought leaders and experts who provide advice on public infrastructure projects.

The roundtable includes representatives of the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, Kentucky League of Cities, Kentucky Association of Counties, Kentucky Magistrates and Commissioners Association, Kentuckians for Better Transportation, Associated General Contractors of Kentucky, the American Council of Engineering Companies, Kentucky Chapter and the Kentucky Association for Economic Development.

“Public Private Partnerships will move the Commonwealth forward on important investments thereby creating jobs, completing necessary infrastructure projects and efficiently serving the public,” said Ashli Watts, vice president, public affairs for the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce. “ The use of P3’s will help Kentucky’s business community, local governments, contractors and workforce forge ahead with needed infrastructure and services in an innovative fashion.” Read more: Lane Report

Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce: Landscaping Camp May 26-28

Landscaping Camp, May 26-28^th, Inn at Ole Miss on the University of Mississippi Campus in Oxford: "We'll be rolling out the Green Carpet, to 45 participants coming from all over MS, TN, GA and MD as they enjoy the seminars and visits to the magnificent landscaped campus and private homes. Afterwards our "campers" will be excited to put their new ideas to work taking their homes to a new level of beauty. Research shows that beauty created through landscaping is one of the top three factors in creating community attachment, or loyalty to your particular town, city or neighborhood.

With April Showers giving way to May flowers, our thoughts turn to getting our lawns and landscaping ready for summer. Memorial Day weekend is regarded as the best time to plant annuals, as there is no longer any risk of frost. MS. The Oxford-Lafayette County Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Foundation Retirement Attraction program are hosting the Landscaping Camp. An outstanding line-up of professionals will be presenting talks, tours, and visits to two beautiful homes. "We're excited to be featuring Jeff McManus, whose expertise in landscaping has earned accolades for The University of Mississippi as being "The Most Beautiful Campus" from a number of national publications.

We would like to thank our major sponsors for supporting this inaugural event. The sponsors include: The City of Oxford, The University of Mississippi, MaxxSouth Broadband, Rebel Realty and Property Management LLC, The Inn at Ole Miss, Stages Mississippi Magazine, and HottyToddy.com. Source: OLC Chamber




Instagram of the Week: Geneva Chamber of Commerce

• genevailchamberThank you @ginsbergchiropractic1795 for coming to our office today & making it the #bestfridayever 😊#genevail

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

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

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

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

Flint & Genesee Chamber eTEAM Recognizes Rising Star, Spark Award Recipients

On May 11, the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce’s eTEAM named the 2017 recipients of the Rising Star and Spark Awards during the 10^th Annual Jumpstart Entrepreneurs’ Conference.

“Small businesses are vitally important to the economic well-being of Flint & Genesee,” said Tim Herman, CEO of the Flint & Genesee Chamber. “The Spark and Rising Star awards highlight success stories and provide inspiration for others to follow in their footsteps.”

The Spark Award honors start-up businesses that have been operating for less than two years. It recognizes their “entrepreneurial spark,” as demonstrated by their determination, vision, market, growth potential, and setting and achieving business goals. This year’s Spark Award winners are:

• AJP Commercial Shredding, Flint. Provides onsite mobile document destruction services. In 2016, owner April Paylor jumped at an opportunity to buy an existing shredding business. She had a solid business plan and secured financing through Metro Community Development, an eTEAM agency. AJP is the only mobile shredding company in Genesee County.
• Curly Girl Lemonade, Flint. Not your traditional lemonade stand, Curly Girl is a beverage vending service for special events, weddings and festivals. Youth entrepreneurs Madison Smith and Alexandria Gibson — both 9-years-old — offer a fresh recipe with unique specialty flavors, such as fresh mint, cucumber and Arnold Palmer.
• Spectacular Spudz, Flint. Owner Keysa Smith began catering in 2014 and soon opened Spectacular Spudz at the Flint Farmers’ Market, serving her premium signature baked potatoes loaded with steak, chicken and various veggies.
• Spectrum Billing Technologies, Flint. Owner Jackie Scotten began her firm just over a year ago, providing medical business office technologies and financial services for physician practices. Since then, Spectrum has become a standout in medical billing with a 98 percent claim acceptance rate and has clients across the country. The company has 11 full-time and two part-time employees.

The Rising Star Award was presented to two businesses: The Professional Painter’s Guild, of Davison; and Knob Hill Bed and Breakfast, of Flint. The award, which honors a growing business beyond the startup phase, recognizes strengths related to growth, leadership, operations, innovation, and/or special work in the community.

The Professional Painter’s Guild is a painting contractor founded by Josh and Jessia Alexander. It provides a variety of services, including residential and commercial painting, remodeling and deck refinishing. In just 18 months, the company has grown from a sole proprietorship to a limited-liability-company (LLC) with five employees and annual revenues of nearly $300,000.

Knob Hill B&B owners Allan Griggs and Diana Phillips believe in the spirit of Flint and its cultural and recreational assets, so they decided to buy and rehab a classic home to create an elegant bed-and-breakfast. Knob Hill opened in 2016 and is on a strong growth curve in a risky segment of the hospitality industry.

The Chamber’s eTEAM is a regional collaboration of more than a dozen entrepreneurial service providers working to connect local entrepreneurs and small businesses with resources to promote growth and success. For more information, visit www.flintandgenesee.org. 

Chamber’s Leadership Fredericksburg Graduates Tenth Class

FREDERICKSBURG – The Chamber’s Leadership Fredericksburg program graduated its tenth class of “Fellows” during a May 19 ceremony at the Jepson Alumni Center.

Leadership Fredericksburg 2017 class president, Jeremy Pickwell, recounted his experiences in the program and encouraged others to apply for the 2018 class. Jeremy is the Executive Director of Operations for Lifepoint Church where he oversees the expansion efforts of the church, financial operations, and leadership of the campus pastors.

Michelle Caldwell Thompson was the keynote speaker. She is the owner of CTI Real Estate, the largest African American-owned residential real estate firm in Planning District 16. She has been the Principal Broker of CTI Real Estate since 2004 and is responsible for corporate strategic initiatives, ensuring regulatory compliance, and managing its team of over fifty real estate professionals in three regional offices. She is also a 2013 Leadership Fredericksburg graduate.

The 30 Fellows in the 2017 class began their Leadership Fredericksburg journey in September with a personality profile assessment. Each month, community, business, nonprofit, political, and educational leaders offered the Fellows insights about their personal leadership journeys. Also, each Fellow was paired with a trained mentor from the business community who supported their progress throughout the program.

The Fellows divided into four teams, each of which partnered with an area non-profit on a service project. Each team presented “deliverables” – concrete results – to its partner. This year participating non-profits were Loisann’s Hope House, Greater Fredericksburg Habitat for Humanity, Dahlgren Heritage Foundation and Rappahannock Goodwill Industries.

Leadership Fredericksburg is now accepting applications for its 2018 class. A selection committee will screen the applications in July and announce the new class in August.

An application can be obtained online at www.fredericksburgchamber.org or by calling the Chamber office at (540) 373-9400. The cost is $1,900 for businesses, $1,550 for nonprofits and $2,600 for non-Chamber members. There is a $25 application fee. Applications must be received at the Chamber office by 5 p.m., Friday, June 30. More information: Media Contact: Dawn Haun, Communications Manager, (540)373-9400, Dawn@fredericksburgchamber.org

#FamousChamber of Commerce Quatation: (Peace of Mind) 

“Peace is the result of retraining your mind to process life as it is, rather than as you think it should be.” - Wayne W. Dyer

From Shelli Williams, ICEA: Career opportunity: One Zone Accepting Resumes For Membership Development Director Position

The Membership Development Director is responsible for the sales of new memberships through the development and implementation of an effective and aggressive program to increase membership growth and meet revenue and organizational objectives. 

This position is full-time, supervises one position and reports directly to the COO. 

  

Primary Job Responsibilities
* Secure new members for the organization.
* Assist in creation of annual membership sales goals.
* Develop and implement sales strategy for achieving membership sales goals and growth in targeted market segments to support organization's strategic plan objectives.
* Generate leads, source referrals, research and identify business prospects (including key industry, community and market segments) and maintain extensive sales pipeline.
* Maintain prospect database in Weblink, including contacts and activity.
* Supervise, set individual goals for and evaluate performance of one salesperson.
* Work with board members on leads and engage board in active use of their contacts.
* Monitor Membership Development Salesperson's development of and updates to prospect list for distribution to board.
* Work with Marketing/COO to review and develop sales materials and membership benefits.
* Attend and invite prospects to organization events, as appropriate, and coordinate introductions to others.
* Manage and oversee activities of Membership Committee and New Member Orientation. * Work with other staff in team-oriented environment.
* Learn and maintain knowledge of organization programs, services, initiatives and activities.
* Perform other duties as assigned.

Desired Skills & Experience 

* Ability to build and manage relationships and interact with diverse cross-section of individuals, including senior-level executives. 

* Demonstrated ability to close new business and reach or surpass goals. 

* Ability to manage direct report(s). 

* Excellent communication (oral, written and presentation) and interpersonal (collaborative, personal and solution-minded) communication skills. 

* Excellent organizational, prioritization and time management skills. 

* Enthusiasm and self-motivation to maximize potential of the position and the market. 

* Proficient in Microsoft Office with ability to learn proprietary membership database. 

* Bachelor's degree or sales/membership development experience preferred.

  

Forward resume to:

OneZone | 10305 Allisonville Rd., Ste. B  |  Fishers, IN  46038





Sparta school superintendent to head Chamber of Commerce

The superintendent of Sparta public schools has been named to head the Sparta Chamber of Commerce.

John Hendricks, who is retiring after 14 years as superintendent and 19 years with the Sparta School District, will take over as CEO on July 1, according to the chamber. He will replace Tim Hyma, who is retiring after five years as CEO.

In addition to heading the school district, Hendricks has served on the board of Deke Slayton Space and Bicycle Museum and on the Sparta Concerts in the Park planning committee. He shared the chamber’s Volunteer of the Year award in 2006 and was festmaster of Butter Fest in 2015. He has also served on the Wisconsin Arts Board and the youth council of the Western Wisconsin Workforce Development Board.

Hendricks said he hopes to grow the number of downtown businesses and help develop the industrial workforce to meet employer needs. Read more: La Crosse Tribune

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

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

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

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

Carmel is named community of the year by Indiana chamber; Sheboygan County Chamber Joins Efforts to Fill Workers Shortage; Chamber Best Practices: Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce - Chamber CEO & Management Roundtable Program - Connecting Executives…Creating Business Success; The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, launches the On Track motorsports education initiative, in partnership with the Warren County ATC, SKYCTC, WKU and Holley Performance Products; Illinois Regional chamber meeting scheduled; Arlington Chamber gears up for Young Entrepreneurs Academy; Biloxi Chamber event: Seafood Fest brings food and fun; Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotations: (Positive Thinking)

Good morning Chamber world! Today is going to be a GREAT day!

Carmel is named community of the year by Indiana chamber

Carmel is being highlighted as an Indiana city with good quality of life.

The growing city was named Community of the Year by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce on Thursday. The chamber listed residential and business development, investments in infrastructure, school system and level of safety as reasons for the recognition.

Matt Frey, owner of Bub's Burgers & Ice Cream, said he loves Carmel because the city has the right people in leadership positions. The restaurant owner praised Mayor Jim Brainard and Carmel Clay Schools Superintendent Nicholas Wahl.

“Great schools, library, trails and a mayor that has a vision for growth that benefits not only businesses but the residents,” Frey said.

In a news release, the chamber also recognized Carmel for:

• Serving as the national headquarters location for more than 75 companies
• Bringing in 1,400 new jobs last year
• Investing in infrastructure, like building almost 100 roundabots for safety and efficiency. Read more: Indy Star

Sheboygan County Chamber Joins Efforts to Fill Workers Shortage

 If you are looking for a job in Sheboygan County, there's good news and bad news. The good news is there are plenty of positions available, but the bad news is a fair number of them are for trade positions that require certain training and education.

It comes as hundreds of baby boomers and Generation Xers retire from their jobs, and Tammy Graf from the Sheboygan County Chamber says there are not enough younger workers to fill the positions.

"As our children are growing up, there is that skill shortage to find those positions and to fill the positions of machinists, CSC operators, welders," says Graf.

There have been efforts  over the past few years by local governments and the Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation to attract people to move to the area to fill the positions.  Now, the Sheboygan County Chamber is taking a more active approach.

Graf says they will not specifically find the people that companies need to fill jobs.  "So what we do is we connect the dots between businesses, schools, tech schools, UW-Sheboygan, Lakeland College - that’s where we come in." Read more: WHBL.com

Chamber Best Practices: Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce - Chamber CEO & Management Roundtable Program - Connecting Executives…Creating Business Success

For 27 years, thousands of business owners, CEOs, top executives and managers have participated in various roundtables to discuss issues of vital interest to their businesses.

If you’re looking for a group that gives you feedback on some of the tough business issues you are facing and can speak from their own personal experience in similar business situations, then the CEO & Management Roundtable Program is for you.

The CEO & Management Roundtable program provides structured discussion groups of 10-13 business executives, CEO/owners, team leaders and management professionals. The same group of participants gather each month in a confidential setting to discuss issues affecting their businesses.

With a variety of professional tracks and industry-specific tables, the program is so rewarding that the majority of all participants rejoin year after year.

FALL ENROLLMENT

Fall tables will be kicking off the first week of October for the CEO & Management Roundtable Program! Get ready to apply or renew…now.

Apply Now!

Renew Now!

The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, launches the On Track motorsports education initiative, in partnership with the Warren County ATC, SKYCTC, WKU and Holley Performance Products

Today, the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, launched the On Track motorsports education initiative, in partnership with the Warren County Area Technology Center, Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College, Western Kentucky University and Holley Performance Products.

Earlier this year, the Chamber, in partnership with the Bowling Green Economic Development Authority, purchased two second-generation Chevrolet Camaros from Holley and donated them to Warren County Area Technology Center and Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College.  During the 2015-16 school year, students will completely rebuild the cars using multiple educational disciplines, including science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). During this process, industry experts will work closely with students and faculty to aid in the development of the cars as well as the curriculum. In 2016, the cars will compete in the Holley LSFest Grand Champion competition, while also being judged on their business/marketing plan as well as their use of STEM educational principles.

"This collaborative approach involves Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, Business, Automotive, and Welding standards.  This mixture of theory and real-life application will provide kinesthetic learners with the opportunity to learn academic standards while actually touching and experiencing the "why" they need to know a particular concept," said Eric Keeling, Warren County ATC principal. "This initiative will inspire excitement and passion for students who are interested in all things automotive." - See more at: Globe Newswire

Illinois Regional chamber meeting scheduled

Eleven area chambers of commerce are joining together in an unprecedented event to bring all of their memberships together for a joint luncheon.

The gathering, set for 11:30 a.m., Wednesday, Sept. 23, at the Carterville Community Center, will feature Southern Illinois University basketball head coach Barry Hinson and WSIL-TV morning news anchor Kevin Hunsperger.

The luncheon also will serve as the official kick-off of the chambers’ 2015 Shop Southern Illinois campaign, a regional promotional effort designed to remind area residents of the importance of doing much, if not all, of their holiday shopping in Southern Illinois.

By taking a pledge to shop locally, participants are eligible to win a number of prize packages including a year’s supply of soda from Pepsi MidAmerica, a half-carat diamond pendant from Your Jeweler in Carterville and a complete living room of new carpet courtesy of Ground FX Flooring.

This will be the second year for the Shop Southern Illinois effort.

Hinson, who served as the program’s sponsor last year, will speak about the importance of working together and doing business within Southern Illinois. Hunsperger will serve as the luncheon’s master of ceremonies.

“The Union County Chamber of Commerce is very excited to be a part of this campaign and to team up with such an outstanding group of people on a regional level,” said Lindsey Sadler, executive director of the Union County Chamber of Commerce.

The luncheon is open to any member of area chambers and the cost of the luncheon is $15. Reservations are required and must be made by Sept. 18 by calling the member’s home chamber.

Participating chambers of commerce include Carbondale, Carterville, Du Quoin, Herrin, Jefferson County, Marion, Murphysboro, Pinckneyville, Saline County, Union County and West Frankfort. Read more: Gazette-Democrat

Arlington Chamber gears up for Young Entrepreneurs Academy

An information session for local students interested in participating in the upcoming Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA), sponsored by the Arlington Chamber of Commerce, will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 22 at 5:30 p.m. at the Chamber office, 2009 14th St. North.

Attendees will meet with program manager Alex Held, who will discuss the program and answer questions from prospective students and their parents.

The application period for the coming session is still open. Students do not have to attend school in Arlington, but need to be available to attend classes held at Marymount University Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m. Read more: Inside NOVA

Biloxi Chamber event: Seafood Fest brings food and fun

Seafood, and lots of it, will be the star attraction this weekend at the 34th annual Biloxi Seafood Festival at Point Cadet Plaza.

The event is put on by the Biloxi Chamber of Commerce, and director Rachael Seymour said it offers a great family atmosphere.

"This weekend is about the four F's: friends, family, fun and food," Seymour said. "People come out to catch up with old friends and there are a lot of family activities. It's a celebration of the seafood industry."

This year Chef Justin Kennedy will create a 200-foot long shrimp po-boy at 2 p.m. Saturday. Kennedy grew up in Biloxi and is head chef at the Parkway Bakery & Tavern in New Orleans, a neighborhood market renowned for its "poor boy" sandwiches. Read more: Sun Herald

Famous Chamber of Commerce Quotations: (Positive Thinking)

The mind is its own place, and in itself can make Heav’n of Hell, a Hell of Heavn – John Milton

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