Good morning Chamber World! It's going to be a GREAT day!
Tuned-in leadership helps chambers hold their own
The chamber of commerce? Yep. Really? Yep again. Still around? Not only still around but in many cases developing programs that are reaching out to -- gasp! -- the Millennial generation, which, after all, is where the next generation of chamber members and leaders will come from.
Millennials? In the chamber?
Not only in but learning from and sharing their own insights with older members.
It may be a bit of a surprise, but chambers of commerce -- at least those with tuned-in leadership -- are at least holding their own in spite of a proliferation of alumni, young professionals, and peer and meet-up groups.
"The biggest thing is the networking opportunity," says Shirlanne Lemm, president and CEO of Itasca-based GOA Regional Business Association, which includes the Elk Grove Village and Itasca chambers. Even with the ease of internet and cell communications, "Nothing beats face-to-face selling," Lemm says.
"Walk into a room of 100 people (at one of GOA's networking events) and there's no better selling experience." Even Millennials, that much-maligned younger generation, have bought into GOA -- partly, according to Lemm, for what they can learn.
"Millennials need to learn how to get past the gatekeepers," Lemm points out, adding that there is no better way to learn than from business owners who have faced and won that battle.
The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce, long a powerhouse in the west suburbs, is experimenting this year with Legacy Circles -- three small groups that each has 12 members, six older than 40 and six younger, and meet twice monthly.
"This is a prototype for us," says Chamber President Nicki Anderson. "We go around the circle, each member talking about challenges," Anderson says. Baby Boomer members might share their experiences with the under-40 members, "But they also might hear from the Millennials that 'Your way to reach the marketplace is outdated,'" Anderson says.
"What's really great is to hear the Millennials sharing their ideas on the work environment, work teams and human resource issues."
Lemm and Anderson agree there is no one way to keep chamber organizations strong. "We have to know how to engage future leaders," Anderson says. "Networking has value, but it's not a draw for someone younger" -- though the Legacy Circles seem to have an interesting future. Read more: Daily Herald
Building a More Entrepreneurial Indy
By Michael Huber, Chief Executive Officer, Indy Chamber
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| Michael Huber |
Hoosier entrepreneurs have earned the spotlight this week for vast contributions to our economy: Indiana Entrepreneurship Week recognizes the new ideas, hard work and life-changing risks that have led to more than a million jobs across the state.
The Indianapolis business community is filled with start-ups and small businesses: One of every three local firms is less than five years old, and 90 percent of metro Indy companies have less than 50 employees - they generate more than 20 percent of our jobs. Roughly 65,000 business owners live and work in Indy, according to Kauffman Foundation calculations; our community’s job creators are also our neighbors, friends and family.
The future of our economy depends on helping them succeed and encouraging others to join them. Since 2000, the pipeline of significant business attraction projects (bringing at least 50 new jobs or $1 million in investment) has fallen by half nationally; we can't recruit our way to prosperity with generous incentives or aggressive marketing. Homegrown business is responsible for up to 80 percent of regional employment growth. Read more: Inside indiana Business
The future of our economy depends on helping them succeed and encouraging others to join them. Since 2000, the pipeline of significant business attraction projects (bringing at least 50 new jobs or $1 million in investment) has fallen by half nationally; we can't recruit our way to prosperity with generous incentives or aggressive marketing. Homegrown business is responsible for up to 80 percent of regional employment growth. Read more: Inside indiana Business
Michigan West Coast Chamber news: 250 new jobs pledged with Michigan firm's $5.6M expansion
JR Automation Technologies LLC will invest $5.6 million in new equipment and create 250 new jobs in Holland Township, the company announced on Tuesday, June 28.
The 36-year-old company makes custom automation applications for a variety of industries, including automotive, aerospace, medical device, pharmaceutical, food processing and construction. The company has experienced substantial growth since 2009, according to a press release.
"West Michigan and the talented people who choose to work at JR are huge contributors to our continued success and expansion," said CEO Bryan Jones, who credited the support of state and local governments for his company's decision to expand in Ottawa County.
"Having the supporting structure of Lakeshore Advantage, MEDC, Michigan Works! and Holland Charter Township allows JR to focus on our operational business growth in Michigan," Jones said.
"West Michigan is a great place to live and raise a family and we are excited to be offering hundreds of new job opportunities to both experienced engineers and new grads. We look forward to the continued opportunities that will be generated in our community through this expansion," Jones said.
"JR Automation is a true example of a local company that started in a garage now developed into one of region's major employers," said Jennifer Owens, president of Lakeshore Advantage. "The systems developed by the JR team are sure to equip manufacturers throughout the world for efficiency and growth," she said.
"As an innovative, engineering-focused organization, JR Automation fits nicely into our local business community's sweet spot. Their continued growth and success is no surprise, as JR has grown 475 percent since 2009," said Jane Clark, president of the Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce. Read more: M LIVE
New Arrival: Shorewood Area 2016 Community Map
The Shorewood Area Chamber 2016 Community Map is available at the Village of Mount Pleasant today! Thanks to Karen Wagner 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.
Redskins Coach Jay Gruden Shares Management Tips with Loudoun Chamber
"As an innovative, engineering-focused organization, JR Automation fits nicely into our local business community's sweet spot. Their continued growth and success is no surprise, as JR has grown 475 percent since 2009," said Jane Clark, president of the Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce. Read more: M LIVE
New Arrival: Shorewood Area 2016 Community Map
The Shorewood Area Chamber 2016 Community Map is available at the Village of Mount Pleasant today! Thanks to Karen Wagner 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.
Washington Redskins Head CoachJay Gruden headlined the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce's "Lessons in Leadership" luncheon at The National Conference Center in Leesburg on Friday, June 24. At the event, broadcaster Larry Michael interviewed Gruden about how management skills in football can help business owners succeed. Gruden talked about the keys to his management style and his personal impressions of living in Loudoun County.
Mindy Williams Carlin of Access Point Public Affairsemceed the event. Geoffrey Lawson, Vice President & General Manager at The National Conference Center, gave the introductory remarks. Bill May, Vice President of Miller & Smith and Managing Director of One Loudoun, spoke to the audience next.
Following up, Brad Edwards, Director of Athletics atGeorge Mason University and Redskins alum, addressed the audience before introducing Gruden and Michael.
While seated on the stage, Michael and Gruden engaged in the lively question and answer discussion focused on football and leadership. Gruden then answered questions from the audience. Read more: Patch.com
Washington Redskins Head CoachJay Gruden headlined the Loudoun County Chamber of Commerce's "Lessons in Leadership" luncheon at The National Conference Center in Leesburg on Friday, June 24. At the event, broadcaster Larry Michael interviewed Gruden about how management skills in football can help business owners succeed. Gruden talked about the keys to his management style and his personal impressions of living in Loudoun County.
Mindy Williams Carlin of Access Point Public Affairsemceed the event. Geoffrey Lawson, Vice President & General Manager at The National Conference Center, gave the introductory remarks. Bill May, Vice President of Miller & Smith and Managing Director of One Loudoun, spoke to the audience next.
Following up, Brad Edwards, Director of Athletics atGeorge Mason University and Redskins alum, addressed the audience before introducing Gruden and Michael.
While seated on the stage, Michael and Gruden engaged in the lively question and answer discussion focused on football and leadership. Gruden then answered questions from the audience. Read more: Patch.com
Danville-Boyle County Chamber interest: Boyle Fiscal Court agrees to spend $10,000 on EDP strategic plan
Despite previous opposition, the Boyle Fiscal Court agreed this week to help fund the hiring of a consulting company to develop a strategic economic development plan for the county.
Judge-Executive Harold McKinney had said earlier in the year that the county had no intention of funding the plan from the Danville-Boyle County Economic Development Partnership. But after Magistrate John Caywood presented information about the plan Tuesday, the fiscal court ultimately voted in favor of providing $10,000.
Caywood, who attended interviews with the consulting companies who may be hired for the strategic plan, initially asked the court to provide $20,000 toward the hiring of either RKG Associates or Creative EDC.
“After spending time with both consultants, I believe either company can provide a positive impact on us in the years to come,” Caywood said.
The entire cost of the outside consultant will be $60,000-$85,000, depending on who is chosen, according to EDP spokeswoman Jennifer Kirchner.
The Convention and Visitors Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, Heart of Danville, Boyle County Industrial Foundation and the EDP have all committed $5,000 for the plan, Kirchner said.
According to news archives, Danville has also budgeted $40,000 for outside analysis of and guidance on economic development strategy.
Caywood argued the study is necessary if Boyle County wants to “make adjustments” and be prepared for its “economic future.”
“My question is are we being the very best that we can be? With that in mind, I would like to make the motion that we allocate … up to $20,000 for the purpose of using it for a consultant to be named by the search committee and by EDP.” Read more: The Advocate Messenger
Despite previous opposition, the Boyle Fiscal Court agreed this week to help fund the hiring of a consulting company to develop a strategic economic development plan for the county.
Judge-Executive Harold McKinney had said earlier in the year that the county had no intention of funding the plan from the Danville-Boyle County Economic Development Partnership. But after Magistrate John Caywood presented information about the plan Tuesday, the fiscal court ultimately voted in favor of providing $10,000.
Caywood, who attended interviews with the consulting companies who may be hired for the strategic plan, initially asked the court to provide $20,000 toward the hiring of either RKG Associates or Creative EDC.
“After spending time with both consultants, I believe either company can provide a positive impact on us in the years to come,” Caywood said.
The entire cost of the outside consultant will be $60,000-$85,000, depending on who is chosen, according to EDP spokeswoman Jennifer Kirchner.
The Convention and Visitors Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, Heart of Danville, Boyle County Industrial Foundation and the EDP have all committed $5,000 for the plan, Kirchner said.
According to news archives, Danville has also budgeted $40,000 for outside analysis of and guidance on economic development strategy.
Caywood argued the study is necessary if Boyle County wants to “make adjustments” and be prepared for its “economic future.”
“My question is are we being the very best that we can be? With that in mind, I would like to make the motion that we allocate … up to $20,000 for the purpose of using it for a consultant to be named by the search committee and by EDP.” Read more: The Advocate Messenger
Carnival rides will return to Libertyfest in Twin Lakes
For the first time since the 1980s, carnival rides are returning to Twin Lakes’ annual Libertyfest celebration set for July 1-3.
The return of Carnival Rides, provided by Kaye Brothers, was driven by popular demand, according Twin Lakes Area Chamber and Business Association Executive Director Marilyn Trongeau.
“People have been asking for rides for many years. It is hard to get a small carnival over the Fourth of July weekend. We found someone able to accommodate our venue,” she said.
Although the event does not have a gate to track attendance, Trongeau noted about 1,900 people purchase wristbands for the annual event in Twin Lakes, and actual figures are higher. Read more: My Kenosha County
For the first time since the 1980s, carnival rides are returning to Twin Lakes’ annual Libertyfest celebration set for July 1-3.
The return of Carnival Rides, provided by Kaye Brothers, was driven by popular demand, according Twin Lakes Area Chamber and Business Association Executive Director Marilyn Trongeau.
“People have been asking for rides for many years. It is hard to get a small carnival over the Fourth of July weekend. We found someone able to accommodate our venue,” she said.
Although the event does not have a gate to track attendance, Trongeau noted about 1,900 people purchase wristbands for the annual event in Twin Lakes, and actual figures are higher. Read more: My Kenosha County
Jackson County Chamber event: La Pointe Krebs Foundation to open its museum to public on Friday in Pascagoula
One of the oldest existing French colonial buildings in America with tree rings dating back to 1757 will be opening its museum doors Friday evening from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. in Pascagoula. The La Pointe Krebs museum will commemorate all the house has withstood and its historical worth to not only the city of Pascagoula, but also to Jackson County.
The La Pointe Krebs foundation, along with the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce will hold a small program with guest speakers such as the Archbishop of Mobile, Thomas John Rodi, Dr. Grant Hartley, Assistant Professor of Geography and Geology at the University of Southern Mississippi, Dr. Greg Waselkov, Director of the South Alabama Archaeology Museum, and Ken P'Pool of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History (MDAH).
According to Executive Director Mac Wixon, those who come to the museum can expect to see rich history of Jackson County on display.
"The museum is the interpretative center to the history of the house and the local history of the area as well," Wixon said. "We covered history chronologically from the arrival of Native Americans to just about modern times and covered things such as the lumber industry, boat construction, and history of the colonial time period. We not only tried to cover the history of the house, but also the rich history of the surrounding area."
After the devastation Hurricane Katrina brought in August of 2005 according to Wixon, the museum was closed and the effort to rebuild was strenuous, but he praised the efforts of the MDAH for their help and guidance into steering the La Pointe Krebs foundation in the right place to its reopening. Read more: GulfLive.com
#BestChamber Practices: Benton Area (Arkansas) Chamber of Commerce: A personal invitation from the Chamber Chairman of the Board Lori Terrell to the Annual Banquet
Town Square Publications Chamber of Commerce Membership Directories, Community Profiles, Re-Location Guides and Custom Maps
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 publication proposal, Click here
One of the oldest existing French colonial buildings in America with tree rings dating back to 1757 will be opening its museum doors Friday evening from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. in Pascagoula. The La Pointe Krebs museum will commemorate all the house has withstood and its historical worth to not only the city of Pascagoula, but also to Jackson County.
The La Pointe Krebs foundation, along with the Jackson County Chamber of Commerce will hold a small program with guest speakers such as the Archbishop of Mobile, Thomas John Rodi, Dr. Grant Hartley, Assistant Professor of Geography and Geology at the University of Southern Mississippi, Dr. Greg Waselkov, Director of the South Alabama Archaeology Museum, and Ken P'Pool of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History (MDAH).
According to Executive Director Mac Wixon, those who come to the museum can expect to see rich history of Jackson County on display.
"The museum is the interpretative center to the history of the house and the local history of the area as well," Wixon said. "We covered history chronologically from the arrival of Native Americans to just about modern times and covered things such as the lumber industry, boat construction, and history of the colonial time period. We not only tried to cover the history of the house, but also the rich history of the surrounding area."
After the devastation Hurricane Katrina brought in August of 2005 according to Wixon, the museum was closed and the effort to rebuild was strenuous, but he praised the efforts of the MDAH for their help and guidance into steering the La Pointe Krebs foundation in the right place to its reopening. Read more: GulfLive.com
#BestChamber Practices: Benton Area (Arkansas) Chamber of Commerce: A personal invitation from the Chamber Chairman of the Board Lori Terrell to the Annual Banquet
Town Square Publications Chamber of Commerce Membership Directories, Community Profiles, Re-Location Guides and Custom Maps
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 publication proposal, Click here
