The FCC’s 5G Plan Deserves 5 Stars
This week, 5G will be front and center as the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will take up a plan to eliminate regulatory barriers for deployment and the White House will hold a summit to address spectrum, infrastructure, and technical standards. While it will require many different forms of communications technologies such as satellite and cable to bridge the digital divide, 5G promises to revolutionize how people and devices connect. It is critical that our leaders promote policies that encourage the deployment of cutting-edge communications equipment.
What is 5G and why does it matter?
5G is what its name implies – it is the fifth generation of mobile communications networks. 5G technology will increase data transfer speeds and enable networks to carry more data with decreased lag times.In order to achieve maximum performance, 5G technology will rely upon small cells, many of which are the size of a pizza box or hockey puck, to be deployed more widely than traditional large cell towers. The combination of these benefits have the potential to be a game changer for both technological advancements as well as the economy at large.
According to one study, 5G technology has the potential this decade to stimulate over $275 billion in investment, which could lead to three million new jobs and at least $500 billion in GDP growth. To understand the stakes of wireless policy on an international level, it is estimated that the United States reaped over $100 billion annually because of its leadership in the previous generation of wireless – 4G. The United States continues to compete with nations such as China and South Korea over 5G, and it is vital that America has the right policies in place in order to promote its continued global leadership.
5G will impact nearly every industry
Next generation wireless technology will help alleviate the growing demand for mobile data. In fact, it is estimated that mobile data traffic worldwide will increase seven-fold by 2021. Not only will you be able to download movies faster on your phone or have better connection through video messaging because of 5G, next generation wireless technology will impact nearly every major industry in the United States.- The manufacturing sector will benefit greatly from the use of 5G. For example, manufacturers will be able to more efficiently produce goods. Next generation technology will enable the use of augmented and virtual reality to maintain and repair production equipment.
- 5G will also impact travel of the future, as connected and autonomous vehicles will employ advanced wireless capabilities. While driverless cars will not necessarily require 5G to safely operate, next generation wireless can improve vehicle-to-vehicle communications which could help reduce travel times while increasing energy efficiency.
- Due to improved latency, 5G also holds the promise of providing greater medical care to underserved communities that lack mobility, as doctors will be able to provide improved telemedicine opportunities to patients.
- Municipalities will more easily transition into becoming smart cities, as 5G will also help connect the sensors that enable the Internet of Things to make citizens safer. For example, Microsoft and partners developed technology that alerts emergency dispatchers once a law enforcement officer removes a gun from its holster. Read more: U.S. Chamber
Congressman Dan Kildee To Speak At Bay Area Chamber Of Commerce Leading The Way Luncheon
The third “Leading the Way” Speaker Series Luncheon will be held on Wednesday, October 17, 2018, with Congressman Dan Kildee as the featured speaker. This event will be held at Bay Valley Resort & Conference Center. Registration is at 11:00 a.m. and the program begins at 11:30 a.m.
Born and raised in Flint, Congressman Dan Kildee is a lifelong Michigander. In Congress, he has worked to bring people together and get real results for Michigan, including:
• Fighting Blight in Michigan: In just his first term, Congressman Kildee secured hundreds of millions of dollars in federal funds to help strengthen neighborhoods, raise home values and make communities safer by removing abandoned houses across Michigan, including in Flint, Saginaw and Detroit.
• Getting Real Aid for Flint Families During the Water Crisis: During the water crisis in Flint, Congressman Kildee worked tirelessly to bring much needed relief to Flint families. He led the fight – bringing Democrats and Republicans together in Congress – to pass legislation to bring over $100 million in federal funds to the city to aid in its recovery. And he worked across the aisle to pass laws to prevent a similar crisis from happening in the future. Lastly, he worked with the Obama Administration to secure additional hundreds of millions to help Flint recover, including Medicaid expansion, funding for new jobs and nutritious foods.
• Protecting the Great Lakes from Nuclear Waste: Congressman Kildee is leading a bipartisan initiative to prevent a Canadian company from permanently burying nuclear waste less than one mile from the Great Lakes.
Before being elected to Congress, Congressman Kildee co-founded and served as the president of the Center for Community Progress, a national non-profit organization focused on urban land reform and revitalization.
Congressman Kildee resides in Flint Township with his wife, Jennifer. They have two children, Kenneth and Katy. Dan’s oldest son, Ryan, and his wife Ginger are the parents of their first two grandchildren, Caitlin and Colin.
“The Bay Area community is excited to hear from such an experienced member of Congress,” said Ryan Tarrant, Bay Area Chamber President & CEO. “With the new developments and economic progress being made in Bay County, it will be beneficial to hear Kildee’s take on current and future federal legislation affecting the region.”
The Leading the Way Luncheon is open to the public. Chamber members are $25 per person, future members $40 per person and table of eight for $190. To register call the Chamber at 989.893.4567 or visit baycityarea.com.
The Bay Area Chamber of Commerce, founded in 1882, is a private, non-profit business organization with nearly 800 members that provides programs to assist local businesses grow and prosper. The Bay Area Chamber of Commerce joins area businesses and the community for the economic growth and well-being of the entire Bay Area. Contact: Ryan Tarrant (989) 893-4567
Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory
The Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Guide & Business Directory is available at the Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to Krisann Durnford and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!
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.
Illinois State Senator Michael Connelly and State Representative Grant Wehrli to Receive the Champion of Free Enterprise Award
Naperville, IL. (September 21, 2018) – The Illinois Chamber and the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce will award Illinois State Senator Michael Connelly and State Representative Grant Wehrli the Champion of Free Enterprise Award on September 26, 2018 at the NACC Legislative Forum at 11:30 A.M.
“While most Illinois lawmakers continue to provide lip service to the need for pro-growth reforms, these 47 lawmakers are committed to supporting and defending Illinois employers throughout the State.” said Todd Maisch, President and CEO of the Illinois Chamber of Commerce.
In order to receive the award, a senator or representative must have received an average of 85 percent or better voting record over the previous two Illinois General Assemblies. Voting records are based on a legislator’s votes on measure the chamber deems important to the state’s business community.
“Local residents and businesses alike benefit from their commonsense approach to growing our tax base and reducing impediments to free enterprise.” said Colin Dalough, Director of Government Affairs and Business Development of the NACC.
Fourth-generation fisherman keeps tradition alive in Prairie du Chien Wisconsin
PRAIRIE DU CHIEN, WISCONSIN — Just as his ancestors did, Mike Valley draws his living from the Mississippi River.
But the 1,000-pound catch that fills his handmade nets and homemade jon boat is not destined for wholesalers. Twice a week, Valley and a couple of his friends feverishly clean their overnight haul of carp, buffalo, catfish, perch and sturgeon, which soon will be snatched up by the enthusiastic customers of his retail store, Valley Fish and Cheese.
“Fifty times a week, I hear ‘Oh my God, what a unique store. This is really cool,'” said Valley, 57, who runs the business with his daughter, Crystal, a confection artist who makes the candy that is another big draw.
Prairie du Chien locals and a whole lot of tourists shop for whole fish, fillets, steaks and the top seller, a catfish cut called selects that Valley invented. But the smoked products are what typically draw the customer exclamations.
“I make 12 kinds of jerky,” Valley said. “The three best are snapping turtle, alligator and catfish. I have the only remaining licensed smokehouse in the state that is 100 percent wood.”
On Friday mornings, Valley makes hickory-smoked curds to add to his cheese inventory, which is 97 percent Wisconsin-made. Fresh salmon spread and crab dip are also Friday staples.
“There are lots of things to look at in my store,” he said. “Kids love it. People can sit down and eat. We have two nice decks.”
He's a fourth-generation fisherman, keeping alive a legacy that dates to 1774, when his ancestors migrated from Quebec to St. Feriole Island to fish, trap for the fur industry and harvest clams.
The island remained the home of the Valleys and about 450 other people until 1978, when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers got tired of dealing with spring floods and moved all permanent residents to the adjacent town, Prairie du Chien.
But the 240-acre St. Feriole, which is where the town of Prairie du Chien actually got its start, remains open to tourists and is home to historical sites and a sculpture garden. Prairie du Chien's population swells to about three times its size during the summer months, when people come to camp and for extended vacation stays.
“The weather is beautiful,” Valley said. “And the mosquitoes aren't that bad. They only bite about 30 minutes before dusk.”
Just as Valley does what he knows and loves, businesses and organizations all over town attract and entertain visitors by capitalizing on what the area has to offer.
“The river, the history and the scenic beauty are what bring tourism to our area,” said Robert Moses, president and CEO of the Prairie du Chien Chamber of Commerce. “We have an event nearly every weekend of the year.”
The Jaycees and the parks and recreation department sponsor free summer concerts on the Mississippi River bank. The fur trading era circa 1840 is re-created every June during the Prairie Villa Rendezvous, and there's a re-enactment in July on Wisconsin's only War of 1812 battlefield, on St. Feriole Island. Read more: The Oklahoman
Bloomington Chamber has Next CEO
The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce has gone local for its next chief executive officer. Monroe County United Ministries Executive Director Erin Predmore will take the helm Monday. Chamber Vice President Anne Bono has been serving as interim CEO since, Phil D'Amico departed in March after just two months on the job. Bono will resume her VP and director of advocacy role when Predmore permanently becomes CEO and president.
Predmore says "I am very honored to be asked to lead the Chamber. The Chamber's mission to create economic opportunity and community well-being are close to my heart - we can't have a community strong enough for everyone without strong business. I am looking forward to working with Chamber members to understand their needs and find solutions together."
She previously served as executive director of the Family Service Center in Springfield, Illinois. The University of Virginia and University of Georgia graduate is a Certified Fund Raising Executive. Read more: Inside Indiana Business
Washington Capitals' Don Fishman To Serve As Keynote Speaker At Arlington Chamber's 94th Annual Meeting
Fishman serves as Assistant General Manager & Director of Legal Affairs for the 2018 Stanley Cup champions
As the Washington Capitals prepare to raise the Stanley Cup banner at tonight's season opener, the Arlington Chamber of Commerce announced today that Don Fishman, Assistant General Manager & Director of Legal Affairs for the Capitals, will serve as the keynote speaker at the 94th Annual Meeting. With over 300 attendees anticipated, the 94th Annual Meeting is a key event for the Arlington business community that will commemorate the Chamber's 2018 accomplishments, while looking ahead to 2019. The event will be held on Friday, December 7 from 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at the Sheraton Pentagon City Hotel.
"We are excited to have Don Fishman serve as our Annual Meeting keynote speaker, while we celebrate our Chamber's yearly accomplishments and those who help Arlington continue to grow and thrive," said 2018 Chamber Chair Lindsey Rheaume of EagleBank. "It's no secret that our community is proud to claim the Washington Capitals as Arlington's home team. The insight that Don will provide into the operations and management of the 2018 Stanley Cup champions will be valuable for our members and set a positive tone for this exciting event."
Fishman handles player contract negotiations, player contract research and analysis, the club's day-to-day salary cap position, team salary cap strategic planning, the salary arbitration process, NHL and team salary cap analysis, and interpretation of NHL/NHLPA Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) issues for the Capitals. Fishman also assists the club's general manager with the day-to-day operations of the Capitals hockey operations department such as roster issues, player movement, preseason and regular season scheduling, budgeting, and training camp planning.
Registration and more information on the Annual Meeting can be found here. The deadline to sign up is December 1 or when the event sells out. Members of the media are invited and encouraged to attend the event.
Student-Led Leadership initiative kicks off in Bowling Green
The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, Bowling Green Independent School District and the Warren County School District Thursday kicked off the 2018-19 school year for the SCK LAUNCH Student Ambassadors.
Building upon The Leader In Me and LEAD, Student-Led Leadership focuses on the application of the principles of leadership. Student-Led Leadership is a process for high school students to prepare for their future career and become contributing members of the community. The initiative focuses on actions that create positive impact for students, school, and community.
Nearly 130 students representative of the student population including age, gender, race, culture, ethnicity, active and not active from our area high schools were selected by their schools through an application process. School staff coaches facilitate and guide the teams and individual members. The chamber provides corporate level leadership and project management training through the FranklinCovey organization, while the students are charged with leading a service project in their schools.
For the first time the teams of all five high schools kicked off their year together, hearing from many community leaders including: Michael Buchanon, Warren County; Dr. Timothy Caboni, Western Kentucky University; Pete Mahurin, Hillard Lyons Financial Services; Gary McGuey, FranklinCovey; Amy Milliken, Warren County Attorney’s Office; Joe Natcher, former owner of Southern Foods; and Bruce Wilkerson, City of Bowling Green.
“It is great to see our community coming together to support our future leaders and provide guidance in their path,” said Gary Fields, superintendent of Bowling Green Independent Schools. “The opportunities provided by our Chamber of Commerce, our local businesses, and industry are beyond what we could offer in the school buildings alone. All of the SCK LAUNCH components provide real, relevant career exploration to help students make decisions for the future.”
According to Warren County Schools Superintendent Rob Clayton, “Two of our top priorities in Warren County Public Schools are ensuring student learning and ensuring student opportunities. The SCK LAUNCH partnership with the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce allows us to take those commitments to the next level through unique experiences that will lay the foundation for a successful future as they leave WCPS.” Read more: Lane Report
Town Square Chamber Publications: Valparaiso Chamber: Promises made, Promises kept!
Note from the Valpo Chamber
I want to thank you for an outstanding map which you produced for our Valpo Chamber.In my 43 years as a CEO in the Chamber Field, it was the smoothest project I have ever seen done. You made all the deadlines, your print quality and cartography was second to none. And of course you paid us in exactly the time frame you said you would so we could count the Royalty Check towards our current year revenue.
Life is very good when dealing with Town Square Publications.
You have the right of first refusal to do our next map. You are a great partner for our Chamber. We are living proof that a printed map is still very much in demand by both advertisers and consumers.
It would be my pleasure to recommend Town Square Publications as a firm Chambers and Tourism Bureaus should use when considering a printed Map or other print publications.
Rex G. Richards, CCE
President
Valpo Chamber of Commerce
Natchez Mayor Darryl Grennell said he has appointed a group of community leaders to serve on a Natchez-Adams Economic Development Council.
Student-Led Leadership initiative kicks off in Bowling Green
Building upon The Leader In Me and LEAD, Student-Led Leadership focuses on the application of the principles of leadership. Student-Led Leadership is a process for high school students to prepare for their future career and become contributing members of the community. The initiative focuses on actions that create positive impact for students, school, and community.
Nearly 130 students representative of the student population including age, gender, race, culture, ethnicity, active and not active from our area high schools were selected by their schools through an application process. School staff coaches facilitate and guide the teams and individual members. The chamber provides corporate level leadership and project management training through the FranklinCovey organization, while the students are charged with leading a service project in their schools.
For the first time the teams of all five high schools kicked off their year together, hearing from many community leaders including: Michael Buchanon, Warren County; Dr. Timothy Caboni, Western Kentucky University; Pete Mahurin, Hillard Lyons Financial Services; Gary McGuey, FranklinCovey; Amy Milliken, Warren County Attorney’s Office; Joe Natcher, former owner of Southern Foods; and Bruce Wilkerson, City of Bowling Green.
“It is great to see our community coming together to support our future leaders and provide guidance in their path,” said Gary Fields, superintendent of Bowling Green Independent Schools. “The opportunities provided by our Chamber of Commerce, our local businesses, and industry are beyond what we could offer in the school buildings alone. All of the SCK LAUNCH components provide real, relevant career exploration to help students make decisions for the future.”
According to Warren County Schools Superintendent Rob Clayton, “Two of our top priorities in Warren County Public Schools are ensuring student learning and ensuring student opportunities. The SCK LAUNCH partnership with the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce allows us to take those commitments to the next level through unique experiences that will lay the foundation for a successful future as they leave WCPS.” Read more: Lane Report
Town Square Chamber Publications: Valparaiso Chamber: Promises made, Promises kept!
Note from the Valpo Chamber
I want to thank you for an outstanding map which you produced for our Valpo Chamber.In my 43 years as a CEO in the Chamber Field, it was the smoothest project I have ever seen done. You made all the deadlines, your print quality and cartography was second to none. And of course you paid us in exactly the time frame you said you would so we could count the Royalty Check towards our current year revenue.
Life is very good when dealing with Town Square Publications.
You have the right of first refusal to do our next map. You are a great partner for our Chamber. We are living proof that a printed map is still very much in demand by both advertisers and consumers.
It would be my pleasure to recommend Town Square Publications as a firm Chambers and Tourism Bureaus should use when considering a printed Map or other print publications.
Rex G. Richards, CCE
President
Valpo Chamber of Commerce
Natchez mayor forms economic council
Natchez Mayor Darryl Grennell said he has appointed a group of community leaders to serve on a Natchez-Adams Economic Development Council.
Kayak Art Proceeds Benefit Human Trafficking Organization
Muskegon, MI – Audrey Link, kayak sculpture artist of “Life on the Lakeshore”, announced her decision to donate all of the proceeds received from her life size kayak sculpture to the Lakeshore Human Trafficking Task Force.
Link went into the kayak sculpture project , which launched this summer, knowing she wanted her art to benefit a local non-profit. For Link, that non-profit was Lakeshore Human Trafficking Task Force, a local organization working to support survivors of trafficking. This is an organization that is close to Link’s heart.
“I chose Lakeshore Human Trafficking Task Force because it is an organization that can do a lot of good and this community needs it,” says Link. “Most people think human trafficking refers to just sex trafficking but there are many other forms like labor trafficking for example. My goal is to create more awareness in the community.”
Link, who is a graphic designer and owner of Max Graphics, worked on her kayak sculpture for well over 80 hours.
Hemisphere Design Works, formerly known as KL Outdoor, made the project possible by providing the nine kayaks for “invited” Michigan artists to create kayak sculptures. They also purchased Link’s kayak sculpture.
The organization knew they wanted to purchase one of the kayak sculptures going into the project. After an office poll, they chose Link’s kayak to purchase which is now displayed in their office on Terrace Point in Downtown Muskegon. The kayak sculpture project was one way the community is celebrating Hemisphere Design Works decision to locate their corporate headquarters in Muskegon.
The nine kayak sculptures were displayed at various locations along W. Western Avenue and Clay Street as part of Lakeshore Art Festival. Link’s kayak sculpture was located at 1st and Western by the Western Market Chalets.
“We are thankful that this kayak sculpture project brought art to our downtown as well as provided a significant benefit to a local non-profit,” says Carla Flanders, Executive Director of the Lakeshore Art Festival.
The nine kayak sculptures were displayed at various locations along W. Western Avenue and Clay Street as part of Lakeshore Art Festival. Link’s kayak sculpture was located at 1st and Western by the Western Market Chalets.
“We are thankful that this kayak sculpture project brought art to our downtown as well as provided a significant benefit to a local non-profit,” says Carla Flanders, Executive Director of the Lakeshore Art Festival.
On Wednesday, Link along with members of the Lakeshore Human Trafficking Task Force and Hemisphere Design Works gathered for the removal and “hand-off” of the kayak. View photos here. https://www.muskegon.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/DSC_3213.jpg https://www.muskegon.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/DSC_3215.jpg Caption: Tracy Lamper from Hemisphere Design Works on left; Audrey Link, Kayak Sculpture Artist on right
Link stated, “It was like Christmas coming downtown the day all the kayaks were getting installed. And now, I am so excited that my art is being put on display permanently at Hemisphere Design Works.”
The kayak proceeds were $1,600. The funds will go to a variety of things through the Lakeshore Human Trafficking Task Force including but not limited to survivors being able to attend a human trafficking conference, support for awareness events, and supplies.
If you are interested in learning more about the Lakeshore Human Trafficking Task Force, visit www.lhttf.org.
About the Lakeshore Art Festival - The Lakeshore Art Festival is always the first Friday and Saturday in July and will take place July 5 and 6, 2019. The Lakeshore Art Festival features a unique blend of 350+ fine art and craft exhibitors, street performers, specialty food booths, interactive art stations, Children’s activities and so much more in beautiful Downtown Muskegon, Michigan. For more information visit lakeshoreartfestival.org.
The 2018 Greater Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce Community Map
#BestChamber practice: Orion Chamber of Commerce Lunch Mob - THIS WEDNESDAY!
Join us at The C-Pub Bar and Grille Wednesday, October 3rd, between 11:30 am and 1:00 pm
For many small businesses, developing proposals in response to government request-for-proposals (RFPs) can be a confusing, time consuming and stressful process. But the Region 6 Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) at the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce is ready to help.
PTAC is offering a free, three-part webinar series that will help dissect the proposal process, establish fundamental practices and procedures and deliver a real-world presentation of the ins and outs of proposal development.
“This is a new program for us and we’re excited to be able to offer it for our clients,” said Jasmine McKenney, PTAC program manager. “We will clearly present key success factors, pitfalls to avoid and provide experience-based guidance to do the right things early to ensure your proposal is a success.”
The sessions will be presented by BID Designs Founder and CEO Brent Paris, who has more than 20 years of experience in government contracting. BID Designs has supported more than 1,000 proposals by government contractors since 2006.
Topics include:
PTAC is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) and the Michigan Economic Development Corp.
For more information, contact Jasmine McKenney at 810.600.4066 or jmckenney@FlintandGenesee.org.
Sip! Sip! Hooray! Dearborn Area Chamber Hosts First Ladies Night on Friday, November 16, 2018
Carole R. Valade, Immediate Past Editor Of Gemini Publications, Will Be The Keynote Speaker At The Annual Athena On The Lakeshore Award Luncheon
Thirteen lakeshore women will be honored at this year’s ATHENA on the Lakeshore Award Luncheon.
Muskegon, Michigan – Carole R. Valade, Immediate Past Editor of Gemini Publications, will be the keynote speaker for the 14th Annual ATHENA on the Lakeshore Award luncheon. The event will be held on Tuesday, October 2, 2018 at the Muskegon Country Club (2801 Lakeshore Dr. Muskegon, MI 49441.) As one of the first women in the U.S. to be named editor of a regional business newspaper, Valade has received numerous awards for news writing, feature writing, column writing and newspaper design. She was named the 2012 ATHENA recipient in Grand Rapids and was inducted into the Michigan Business Hall of Fame in February of 2018. Valade has served in a number of leadership positions in many West Michigan community groups.
The ATHENA on the Lakeshore Award Luncheon is a program of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce and The Chamber of Commerce Grand Haven, Spring Lake, Ferrysburg. The ATHENA awards are presented annually to recognize outstanding lakeshore women who have demonstrated excellence in their business or profession, have provided valuable service by devoting time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in their community, assist women in reaching their full potential and who exhibit the spirit of regional collaboration. This year we celebrate nine ATHENA Award Finalists and four ATHENA Young Professional Award Finalists.
2018 ATHENA Award Finalists
Zaneta Adams, William Hughes, PLLC; WINC; Lighthouse for Veterans
Mary Boyd, Mercy Health & St. Joseph Health System
Jennifer Bustard, Mona Shores Public Schools
Pam Curtis, Senior Resources of West Michigan
Kimberly Maguire, Mercy Health Muskegon
Julia Rupp, HealthWest
Brianna Scott, Brianna T. Scott & Associates, PLLC
Chris Weavers-Stevenson, JW’s and J-Dubs
Barbara Lee VanHorssen, Extended Grace
2018 ATHENA Young Professional Award Finalists
Sara Barco, Weiss Chiropractic
Meghan Heritage, BlueWest Properties
Dena Isabell, Consumers Energy
Cece Riley, HealthWest
Reservations are required for the Tuesday, October 2, 2018 event. Cost to attend is $35 per person for Chamber members, $55 per person for non-members or $400 for a corporate table of eight. A portion of the proceeds supports local leadership programs. Reservations can be made by visiting www.muskegon.org or calling the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce 231.722.3751. PNC Bank is the premier sponsor of the ATHENA on the Lakeshore Program.
Howell Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation announces 2018 Margaret Starkey Scholarship recipients
About the Lakeshore Art Festival - The Lakeshore Art Festival is always the first Friday and Saturday in July and will take place July 5 and 6, 2019. The Lakeshore Art Festival features a unique blend of 350+ fine art and craft exhibitors, street performers, specialty food booths, interactive art stations, Children’s activities and so much more in beautiful Downtown Muskegon, Michigan. For more information visit lakeshoreartfestival.org.
The 2018 Greater Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce Community Map
The Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce Community Map is available at the Royal Oak Chamber today! Thanks to Shelly Kemp and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!
Town Square Publications (www.townsquarepublications.com) can help you accomplish your chamber's gloss map, directory, community guide or publication needs at no expense to the chamber. Please email John Dussman at jdussman@tspubs.com or call (847)-427-4633.
#BestChamber practice: Orion Chamber of Commerce Lunch Mob - THIS WEDNESDAY!
Join us at The C-Pub Bar and Grille Wednesday, October 3rd, between 11:30 am and 1:00 pm
| Canterbury Village 2325 Joslyn Ct, Orion Charter Township, MI 48360 |
Flint & Genesee Chamber collaboration: Simplifying the RFP response process for government contracts
For many small businesses, developing proposals in response to government request-for-proposals (RFPs) can be a confusing, time consuming and stressful process. But the Region 6 Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) at the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce is ready to help.
PTAC is offering a free, three-part webinar series that will help dissect the proposal process, establish fundamental practices and procedures and deliver a real-world presentation of the ins and outs of proposal development.
“This is a new program for us and we’re excited to be able to offer it for our clients,” said Jasmine McKenney, PTAC program manager. “We will clearly present key success factors, pitfalls to avoid and provide experience-based guidance to do the right things early to ensure your proposal is a success.”
The sessions will be presented by BID Designs Founder and CEO Brent Paris, who has more than 20 years of experience in government contracting. BID Designs has supported more than 1,000 proposals by government contractors since 2006.
Topics include:
- Understanding the Federal Acquisition Process and Proposal Response Requirements
- Proposal Trends Today and Critical Success Factors
- Understanding and Ensuring Proposal Compliance
- The Effective Proposal Process to Focus on the Win
- Evaluator-Focused Proposal Writing Techniques and Best Practices
- Conducting Color Reviews for Optimal Results
- Resourcing Your Proposal – Putting the Right Men and Women on the Job
- Small business federal contractors
- Part 1 — October 3, 9-11 a.m. Register Now
- Part 2 — October 10, 9-11 a.m. Register Now
- Part 3 — October 17, 9-11 a.m. Register Now
- This is a webinar series and can be viewed remotely or at the Flint & Genesee Chamber at 519 S. Saginaw St., Suite 200, in Flint.
PTAC is funded in part through a cooperative agreement with the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) and the Michigan Economic Development Corp.
For more information, contact Jasmine McKenney at 810.600.4066 or jmckenney@FlintandGenesee.org.
Sip! Sip! Hooray! Dearborn Area Chamber Hosts First Ladies Night on Friday, November 16, 2018
Dearborn, MI - The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce is thrilled to host their fall Ladies’ Night on Friday, November 16, 2018. The event will take place at the DoubleTree by Hilton Dearborn/Detroit from 6pm – 10pm. This will be an evening of pampering, shopping and fun!
Our sponsors supporting the event include our Pampering sponsor, Sianna Muscles in Motion. They will be providing professionally licensed massage therapists to perform chair massages to all attendees. In addition, Quality Nails Express will be providing 6 nail techs who will provide manicures for all attendees and All Natural Henna will be providing each attendee a small henna tattoo.
Our Jewel sponsor is Steven Bernard Jewelers. Steven will be giving each attendee a $25 gift certificate that can be used at the store after the event.
Our Fashion sponsor is Macy’s Fairlane. They will be providing a fantastic Holiday fashion show during the evening!
Shopping will include lotions, potions, glass ornaments, clothing, cosmetics, Michigan made goods and more! A super opportunity to get your holiday shopping started. Many one of a kind items will be offered.
Vendors include Village Picture Framing & Art Gallery who will be giving each attendee gift certificates for 20% off of custom framing. They will also have a variety of holiday glass, candles & prints!
We are thrilled to welcome The Glass Academy, Nichols Ski & Snowboard & Tauntus Cosmetics by Nadonya who just landed her lip line at Macy’s! Also joining the fun is Lincoln Street Soap, Dearborn Novelty Art, Things We Love, LuLaRoe by Meghan Jensen, & Flair4Five. Pamper yourself at the event with a Mary Kay brow bar & skincare. More vendors are added each day!
This event is open to the public. Early bird tickets are only $40/person and include 2 drinks and heavy appetizers. You can order tickets on the Chamber website at: www.DearbornAreaChamber.org or call 313-584-6100.
For more information, please visit the Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce online at www.DearbornAreaChamber.org or by phone at 313-584-6100.
Carole R. Valade, Immediate Past Editor Of Gemini Publications, Will Be The Keynote Speaker At The Annual Athena On The Lakeshore Award Luncheon
Thirteen lakeshore women will be honored at this year’s ATHENA on the Lakeshore Award Luncheon.
Muskegon, Michigan – Carole R. Valade, Immediate Past Editor of Gemini Publications, will be the keynote speaker for the 14th Annual ATHENA on the Lakeshore Award luncheon. The event will be held on Tuesday, October 2, 2018 at the Muskegon Country Club (2801 Lakeshore Dr. Muskegon, MI 49441.) As one of the first women in the U.S. to be named editor of a regional business newspaper, Valade has received numerous awards for news writing, feature writing, column writing and newspaper design. She was named the 2012 ATHENA recipient in Grand Rapids and was inducted into the Michigan Business Hall of Fame in February of 2018. Valade has served in a number of leadership positions in many West Michigan community groups.
The ATHENA on the Lakeshore Award Luncheon is a program of the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce and The Chamber of Commerce Grand Haven, Spring Lake, Ferrysburg. The ATHENA awards are presented annually to recognize outstanding lakeshore women who have demonstrated excellence in their business or profession, have provided valuable service by devoting time and energy to improve the quality of life for others in their community, assist women in reaching their full potential and who exhibit the spirit of regional collaboration. This year we celebrate nine ATHENA Award Finalists and four ATHENA Young Professional Award Finalists.
2018 ATHENA Award Finalists
Zaneta Adams, William Hughes, PLLC; WINC; Lighthouse for Veterans
Mary Boyd, Mercy Health & St. Joseph Health System
Jennifer Bustard, Mona Shores Public Schools
Pam Curtis, Senior Resources of West Michigan
Kimberly Maguire, Mercy Health Muskegon
Julia Rupp, HealthWest
Brianna Scott, Brianna T. Scott & Associates, PLLC
Chris Weavers-Stevenson, JW’s and J-Dubs
Barbara Lee VanHorssen, Extended Grace
2018 ATHENA Young Professional Award Finalists
Sara Barco, Weiss Chiropractic
Meghan Heritage, BlueWest Properties
Dena Isabell, Consumers Energy
Cece Riley, HealthWest
Reservations are required for the Tuesday, October 2, 2018 event. Cost to attend is $35 per person for Chamber members, $55 per person for non-members or $400 for a corporate table of eight. A portion of the proceeds supports local leadership programs. Reservations can be made by visiting www.muskegon.org or calling the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce 231.722.3751. PNC Bank is the premier sponsor of the ATHENA on the Lakeshore Program.
Howell Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation announces 2018 Margaret Starkey Scholarship recipients
The Howell Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation is pleased to announce the six 2018 Margaret Starkey Scholarship recipients.
This scholarship of the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation honors the memory of Margaret Starkey, who died in 2002.
Margaret proudly served as executive assistant at the chamber for 31 years until she retired in 1987. She was dedicated and enthusiastic, a woman who had great attention to detail and a love of community service. These outstanding personal qualities helped her achieve great success despite big obstacles in her life. It is this spirit the scholarship honors.
It is an honor for the Howell Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation to reward employees for outstanding service and encourage educational advancement. This scholarship is made possible because of generous chamber member donations.
In 2018, there were over 25 very qualified nominations submitted to the Howell Area Chamber Foundation Margaret Starkey Scholarship committee. Nominations are made by the employers of the dedicated, non-traditional students who work for them. Each recipient will receive $1500 toward their tuition and books. Recipients who attend Cleary University will receive a scholarship match, up to $1000 from Cleary University toward tuition re-imbursement.
2018 Margaret Starkey Scholarship Recipients:
Brittany Bannow of Cleary University, nominated by Jeffrey Bane. Brittany currently attends and works at Cleary University.
Rachael Ferraiuolo of Chem-Trend Limited Partnership, nominated by Lori Davis. Rachael currently attends Lansing Community College.
Jenna Niemi of LOC Federal Credit Union, nominated by Debbie Carlton. Jenna attends Lansing Community College.
Kelsey St. Charles of Vista Springs, nominated by Suzi Savich. Kelsey attends Madonna University.
Erin Miller of Hanover Insurance, nominated by Tracy Campbell. Erin is a student at Cleary University, majoring in Management-Administration.
Indigo Lee of Moo to You Dairy, nominated by Sharon Moskal. Indigo is a student at Eastern Michigan University.
If you would like more information about the Margaret Starkey Scholarship, please contact Kim Esper, Howell Area Chamber of Commerce Interim President: 517.546.3920
OPINION: Taylar Akin — Building business through government advocacy
OPINION: Taylar Akin — Building business through government advocacy
The Gaylord Area Chamber of Commerce belongs to the Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance. The partnership of the Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance was established based on the premise that many legislative issues impact the region in similar ways. These issues should be addressed regionally to maximize the political influence of this 14-county chamber alliance and it’s more than 6,500 members.
The alliance of the Alpena Area Chamber of Commerce, Benzie County Chamber of Commerce, Cadillac Area Chamber of Commerce, Charlevoix Area Chamber of Commerce, Gaylord Area Chamber of Commerce, The Lake Superior Community Partnership, Petoskey Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce have identified legislative areas that should be monitored and advocated to elected officials on the local, state, and federal levels.
When deemed appropriate and in support of Chamber Alliance positions and recommendations, member advocacy and grassroots activities will be developed and promoted using this legislative agenda as a basis for taking position on legislative policy. The alliance reviews proposed ballot issues and discusses them within each organization and then collectively as a group. The alliance believes that one-size legislation does not fit all and many of our challenges in Northern Michigan are unique as many of our communities are rural.
The Gaylord Area Chamber of Commerce has an active Government Affairs committee that is continually working with the Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance. The Chamber is a part of this organization so we are able to communicate needs or challenges that are specific to Gaylord and the business community. By providing our members with this higher level government advocacy arm of the chamber, we feel that we are taking an active role in effecting positive change within the local, regional, and statewide legislation.
If you are interested in learning more about the Government Affairs Committee or the Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance please contact taylar@gaylordchamber.com.
Taylar Akin is the executive director of the Gaylord Area Chamber of Commerce and can be reached at taylar@gaylordchamber.com. Read more: Petoskey News
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.
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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
