Indiana Chamber’s 2022 Key Issues Top Legislative Priorities; Fulton County Chamber: Back to Biz: Your One Stop Resource to get your Business Back On Track; New Arrival: Rush County 2021 Chamber of Commerce Community Map; Jasper Chamber: Great Things To See and Do During O’Tannenbaum Days Weekend in Jasper, Indiana; Jay Julian to Retire From Muncie-Delaware County Chamber of Commerce; Rolling Meadows Chamber Delight: Global Manufacturer of Machinery Tools Chooses Illinois for New U.S. Headquarters; Start Peninsula winners include photo studio, wedding e-commerce and real estate app; Prince William Chamber event: Veterans struggle for understanding; Fredericksburg Regional Chamber: State Lawmakers to Talk Issues at Chamber Legislative Breakfast; Virginia Breeze bus service opens route from Bristol to Washington D.C.; Duneland Chamber of Commerce Community Profile Magazine; New CEO for Northeast Indiana Partnership is Stephane Frijia; Kosciusko Chamber: In the Loop Podcasts; #FamousChamber of Commerce Quotation (Be happy!); Town Square Publications - The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in the USA!

 

Good morning #ChamberWorld! It's going to be a great day! Indiana Chamber’s 2022 Key Issues - Top Legislative Priorities      ECONOMIC RECOVERY AND MODERNIZATION § Oppose government mandates that prevent businesses from making autonomous decisions about vaccination requirements for employees. Employers are in the best position to determine what’s best for their workforce, whether that’s mandating or not mandating vaccines.   § Support increasing incentives for attracting remote workers to Indiana to help mitigate the projected losses to its workforce over the next decade (due in large part to Baby Boomers retiring and a lower workforce participation rate). Such state and local-based incentives should be carefully designed to provide a return on investment and include participation from local communities and employers. In addition to incentivizing remote workers to move to Indiana, lawmakers should codify language clarifying that employers of remote workers are eligible for Economic Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE) tax credits if the individuals are Indiana residents but do not work in a physical office location.   § Support measures to promote entrepreneurship in Indiana. Several goals could be achieved during the legislative session that could spur gains in this area, including an expansion of the venture capital investment tax credit eligibility, a focus on promoting entrepreneurship among youth (via access to grants, curriculum, etc.) and opening pathways to create start-up businesses for those who are under 18 years old and/or from underserved populations such as the formerly incarcerated and residents of rural areas.   EDUCATION / WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT § Support measures to enhance early childcare access and quality. This can be done through streamlining existing state regulations (not related to health and safety) and providing incentives for providers to enhance program quality. The lack of affordable, high-quality childcare across Indiana is one of the outside factors most negatively impacting attracting and retaining workers.   § Support strengthening college and career readiness for Indiana students. This can be achieved with a three-pronged approach: 1. Alleviating the business liability burden for students under 18 years old who participate in work-based learning experiences. 2. Strengthening graduation pathway requirements and more seamlessly aligning these expectations within Indiana’s high school diploma options. 3. Creating potential for members of the business community to serve as adjunct (part-time) faculty at area K-12 schools, which allows professionals to maintain their careers while supplementing local education options – particularly in high-need subject areas.     ENERGY / ENVIRONMENT § Support a statewide standard that would remove certain siting barriers for renewable energy sources. Currently, there is a patchwork of regulations that are set at the local government level. This has proven to be a hurdle for Indiana’s diversifying energy portfolio and costly for both residential and business energy consumers.   TAXATION / PUBLIC FINANCE § Oppose any substantial change to the structure of the Indiana Tax Court as an independently operating judicial court of special jurisdiction. The Court is designed to adjudicate tax controversies and establish and maintain a consistent body of law in the area of tax. § Support maintaining and enhancing our attractive tax climate. Business personal property continues to be the tax area in which Indiana stands out most negatively. We need to find a way to reduce what is among the largest overall business property tax burdens of any state – and do so without harming our overall attractive tax structure. The Chamber supports phasing out the application of the 30% depreciation floor, which applies to all personal property assessments.   TECHNOLOGY § Support expansion of research and development, manufacturing, testing and deployment of electric vehicles (EVs), which represent the future of the transportation industry. By 2025, EVs will account for 10% of all vehicle sales globally and are expected to increase to 58% by 2040, with the largest growth projected to occur in North America. Indiana’s history of automobile manufacturing and supply chain participation perfectly positions the state to be on the leading front of attracting EV manufacturing, talent and investment.   WORKER’S COMPENSATION § Support a cap on reimbursement for ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs). The cost savings received from tying ASCs’ worker’s compensation reimbursement rates to Medicare will provide an amount for increased benefits without a subsequent increase in employer rates.

Fulton County Chamber: Back to Biz: Your One Stop Resource to get your Business Back On Track   Back To Biz is a free program designed to help your business recover and grow. It features a collection of more than 400 actionable video lessons, informative interviews, success stories, articles, and tools from a diverse and renowned set of innovative entrepreneurs. The content is designed to help you expand your knowledge and skills on a wide range of topics, including hiring talent, selling online, building your brand, pivoting business models, creating new revenue streams, finding your ideal customers, managing stress, and more. To sign up for free click HERE.

New Arrival: Rush County 2021 Chamber of Commerce Community Map

The Rush County Chamber of Commerce Community Map is available at the Rush County Chamber today! Thanks to Sandy Fussner and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!!!

View the Rush County Map

Town Square Publications 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 or call (847)-427-4633.

Jasper Chamber: Great Things To See and Do During O’Tannenbaum Days Weekend in Jasper, Indiana O’Tannenbaum Days will be December 3, 4, & 5, 2021 in Jasper, Indiana. The huge, lighted Christmas tree in the center of downtown welcomes visitors, relatives, residents and friends to this annual Christmas celebration. Lights will be strung from the Dubois County Courthouse to the tops of the buildings. Many of the downtown businesses also have perimeter lights outlining the tops of their buildings. Shops in the city are ready for shoppers with gift ideas and window displays full of decorations. Potpourri, carriage rides, Santa Claus in his special house, and a large variety of artists and artisans are in the stores to greet you with demonstrations of their special skills. The stores are all ready for you with lots of great ideas for gifts and decorations, featured artists and fun, too. Artists and artisans will display their talents all weekend in many of the stores. The church bazaars, cookie walks, and craft venues will also be happening throughout the city during this special holiday weekend. Santa Claus will be in his special house on the courthouse square throughout the entire weekend. He will be there on Friday from 5 – 8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from noon – 3:00 p.m. both days. You will want to bring your camera to photograph your child with Santa Claus. Take advantage of the beautiful community Christmas tree next to Santa’s house and take some pictures of your children, friends, or relatives. This is a great weekend to share with loved ones and a wonderful time to reminisce and to make new memories that will last for years. Hand sanitizer and a shield will be on site for safety precautions. Horse-drawn carriage rides are sure to please both young and old during this special weekend. At a starting point in front of Jasper City Hall, on the Square, in downtown Jasper, the carriage will travel north and south for several blocks. There will be one carriage taking passengers on the scenic and historic tour of downtown Jasper. The carriage rides will be available at no cost, although donations are always accepted. The carriage rides will run Friday evening from 5:30 – 8:00 p.m., and on Saturday afternoon from 12-3 and on Sunday afternoon from 12-3:00 p.m. Most of the hotels in Jasper and Dubois County are offering Olde World Christmas lodging packages. Call the Jasper Chamber of Commerce at 812/482-6866 or the Dubois County Visitors Center at 812-482-9115 or 1-800/968-4578 for this information or go to: www.visitduboiscounty.com. O’Tannenbaum Days is funded through a cooperative effort of the Greater Downtown Jasper Business Association, Jasper Chamber of Commerce and the Dubois County Visitors Center.

Jay Julian to Retire From Muncie-Delaware County Chamber of Commerce On behalf of the Board of Directors, we share with you that Jay Julian has announced his intention to retire as President/CEO of the Muncie-Delaware County Chamber of Commerce and as Chief Economic Development Officer of the Muncie-Delaware County Economic Development Alliance effective April 1, 2022. We know that our organization will be losing a strong leader and advocate for the Muncie and Delaware County communities. Terry Pence, Chair of the Muncie-Delaware County Chamber of Commerce said, “If you look at where we were in 2009 when Jay took on this role and where we are today, the advancements are clear. That is the truest mark of the impact Jay has made. As a business community we are stronger and better positioned for tomorrow than we were when he took on this role.” Kelly Shrock, Chair of the Muncie-Delaware County Economic Development Alliance also commented, “Our community has been fortunate to have Jay Julian at the helm for twelve years. His leadership in economic development has brought much to improve the quality of life here. Our business community helps strengthen our community overall and we thank Jay for his tireless efforts.” The Muncie-Delaware County Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Alliance are fortunate to have a strong and experienced internal team to ensure continuity and a positive transition. Our finances and membership are strong, our partnerships within the community are robust, and our staff is talented.  Recruiting a New President The Board recognizes that our most important responsibility is to recruit and retain the next President/CEO, and wehave taken several important steps. First, we have appointed an eight-person Search Committee that reflects our diverse membership in both the Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development sectors. The committee is jointly chaired by Kelly Shrock and Terry Pence. Also, the committee has retained Smith & Syberg Executive Search to work with the Search Committee and the Board. Smith and Syberg is a Columbus, Indiana-based executive search firm serving clients in Indiana and throughout the United States. They have extensive experience in the recruitment of senior leadership for nonprofit organizations. The search will be conducted by Joe Smith and Keith Syberg. Over the past several weeks, Smith and Syberg has met with the Search Committee, Board members, staff members, and key stakeholders to gain their input prior to beginning the search process. Smith and Syberg will serve as the point of contact for requests for information, candidate recommendations, and/or expressions of interest. Interviews with the Search Committee will be held in October and November with an anticipated start date in the first quarter of 2022. Confidential inquiries, referrals, and resumes should be directed to Keith Syberg via phone: (812) 372-7254 or email: kas@smithandsyberg.com. We are excited about a new President/CEO helping to lead the next chapter of community and business development in Muncie and Delaware County. Kelly K. Shrock, Search Committee Co-Chair President The Community Foundation of Muncie & Delaware County, Inc. Terry Pence, Search Committee Co-Chair Vice President of Operations IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital Rolling Meadows Chamber Delight: Global Manufacturer of Machinery Tools Chooses Illinois for New U.S. Headquarters Danobat, a global manufacturer of machine tools and production systems for the auto, aerospace, rail, and energy sectors, announced plans to open its new U.S. headquarters in Rolling Meadows, Illinois, earlier this week. President of Danobat Manex Ochoteco said, "As Danobat continues to expand our U.S. presence and to meet current global demand, we can think of no better location than Illinois – a true hub for advanced manufacturing – to build our team and customer base." Construction is underway on the 12,700 square foot facility with an anticipated completion in the first quarter of 2022. The new headquarters will house core administrative functions of the company’s U.S. presence including sales, marketing, engineering, part & service divisions, and eventually will become a center to represent the technologies and capabilities of the brand. Danobat has production plants and service centers in over 40 countries.   Start Peninsula winners include photo studio, wedding e-commerce and real estate app After four micro events and a final championship pitch competition, judges selected the winners of this year’s Start Peninsula entrepreneurial contest. The three honorees are Bonilla Pet Studio, EWedded, and Pocket Properties App. Start Peninsula helps entrepreneurs grow their businesses through mentorship, networking and funding opportunities. The pitch competition, hosted by the city of Newport News, in partnership with the cities of Hampton, Williamsburg, Poquoson, and James City and York counties, has been held annually since 2012. Bonilla Pet Studio is a Norfolk-based photography studio that specializes in capturing high quality pet portraits. Founded by Erin Bonilla in March 2020, the business is opening a second location in Williamsburg in December. EWedded is an e-commerce site started by Maya Holihan earlier this year. The business helps wedding businesses and brands to sell discontinued and overstock luxury products for up to 80% off retail prices. Richmond-based Pocket Properties App enables users to buy and trade shares of real estate. Started by Stanley Glover last year, the financial services company employs 11 workers. ADVERTISING Each winner receives $5,000 in seed funding; a one-year spot at Growth University; a six-month membership to Launchpad, Williamsburg’s business development center; one-year memberships to the Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, The Greater Williamsburg Business Alliance, the York County Chamber of Commerce, and the Retail Alliance; and 20 hours of consulting from the Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center and CrimDell Small Business Network. More: Daily Press Prince William Chamber event: Veterans struggle for understanding Retired Gen. John Nicholson says it’s surreal to return from combat and go from the battlefield to the Atlanta airport in just hours. “Your mind is on the battlefield but your body is in the airport. Being escorted through the airport to the connecting flight and people in the airport spontaneously begin standing and clapping at the sight of a column of soldiers,” Nicholson recalled. He asked the USO escort who they were applauding for. “For you,” the staffer said. Nicholson said that made him feel a little embarrassed. Speaking at the Prince William Chamber of Commerce’s Salute to the Military lunch in Woodbridge last week, Nicholson, now president of the PenFed Foundation, said there’s “maybe a lack of understanding between the servicemembers and the society that they serve.” He didn’t understand why the people in the airport were applauding. “We were just doing our job,” he added. “They volunteered to serve our country, and to defend the American people. That’s what we do. They don’t seek out any special recognition for it.” Read more: Inside NOVA Fredericksburg Regional Chamber: State Lawmakers to Talk Issues at Chamber Legislative Breakfast FREDERICKSBURG – State legislators from the Fredericksburg Region will offer a preview of the 2022 General Assembly session during the Chamber’s annual Legislative Breakfast. Area lawmakers participating include Senators Bryce Reeves and Richard Stuart, Delegates Hyland Buddy Fowler and Bobby Orrock, and Delegates-Elect Tara Durant and Phillip Scott. Chamber members will have a chance to share their concerns during a question-and answer session. The Chamber will also present the delegation with a packet containing the organization’s legislative priorities for 2022. The Legislative Breakfast will take place Dec. 1st beginning at 8:00am at Stevenson Ridge. Virginia Partners Bank and Germanna Community College are serving as sponsors. The cost of attendance is $30 for members, $40 for future members. Please contact Ashley Fuzaylova at afuzaylova@fxbgchamber.org or 540-479-6761 to reserve your seat or for more information. Virginia Breeze bus service opens route from Bristol to Washington D.C. There is a new way for Bristol residents to travel across the Commonwealth. Bristol city leaders celebrated the opening of the Virginia Breeze Bus services on Saturday, November 13th at the Birthplace of Country Music Museum. There will be two buses, one that will depart in Washington D.C. and stop in Bristol, and another that will leave from Bristol and stop in Washington D.C. The buses will start running on Monday, November 15th, and the route has 7 stops throughout Virginia, before making its final stop at Union Station in the nation's capitol. "It's called Highlands Rhythm, appropriately coined to our assets here in this community, but it's really a bus line that offers people a different way to travel across the Commonwealth, which is terrific," said Chamber of Commerce President and CEO, Beth Rhinehart. "Anyone that has traveled 81 knows sometimes it can be a little white knuckled experience, so this a great way to travel and work." Departure and arrival will be at the V-DOT park and ride lot at Interstate 81’s Exit 5 across from the Exxon gas station. We're told it will cost $60 for a one way ticket. Other route stops include Wytheville, Radford, Christiansburg, Salem, Harrisonburg, and Dulles International Airport. To learn more about the routes, visit the Virginia Breeze Bus Line, HERE Duneland Chamber of Commerce Community Profile Magazine The Duneland Chamber of Commerce Community Community Profile Magazine is available at the Duneland Chamber today! Thanks to Maura Durham, June Russell and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!! Town Square Publications 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 or call (847)-427-4633. VIEW the Duneland Chamber Community Guide and Membership Directory New CEO for Northeast Indiana Partnership is Stephane Frijia After a five-month national search, the Northeast Indiana Regional Partnership has named Stephane Frijia its next president and chief executive officer. Frijia most recently served as senior vice president of strategy for the Greater Phoenix Economic Council. He succeeds the organization’s founding CEO, John Sampson, who stepped down at the end of March after 15 years. A native Italian, Frijia has spent nearly the last 20 years in the Phoenix area. In his most recent role, the partnership says he led efforts to boost investment in new advanced industrial parks in the region, as well as the development of data science capabilities in support of domestic and international business attraction and marketing. “As technology drives global access and opportunity without boundaries, leaders in economic development must have a proven record in data intelligence and international marketability,” said Dr. Sherilyn Emberton, chair of the partnership’s board of directors. “Stephane brings experience and a record of success in both. His background in building strategies that supported the diverse growth of the Greater Phoenix area will complement the incredible work already being done in Northeast Indiana.” The partnership says Frijia is in the process of relocating to northeast Indiana and will begin his new role Oct. 11.  “Stephane has the background, experience and energy to elevate Northeast Indiana’s outward facing national sales and business development program,” said Ellen Cutter, member of the search committee and vice president of economic development for Greater Fort Wayne Inc. “Fort Wayne is the fastest-growing metro area in the Great Lakes region, and the opportunity for Northeast Indiana to capitalize on the momentum, together, has never been stronger.” Kosciusko Chamber: In the Loop Podcasts This week's episode of our In the Loop Podcast features Whitney Wright from Belove! From its inception, Belove has always been about more than simply selling products. At its core, the shop exists to give back to people in need. They donate 5% of every sale to local needs in the community. They believe that every product has the ability to change a life. From local makers, to give back brands, vintage finds and more, your purchase will make a difference. LISTEN TO EPISODE 5 #FamousChamber of Commerce Quotation (Be happy!): Smile and watch others smile back. Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories, Maps, Apps, Quarterly Magazines, NEW MOVER magazines, Digital Directory Sales and Community Profiles: The no cost, no risk BEST Chamber Publishing Partner in the USA! 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 and the United States. 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, or to request your chamber publication or map proposal, contact Town Square Chamber Proposal or email John Dussman with the subject line: Chamber Publication Proposal Requested. Thank you!

7 SBA Programs Every Small Business Should Know About; The Wauwatosa Chamber of Commerce is Partnering with Network Health; Lake Zurich Chamber - Wauconda Chamber: Lake County Grant Program; West Michigan chambers of commerce ask Congress for more K-12 funding in wake of pandemic; $14.66 million for New Economic Resilience and Recovery Program in Virginia; Plymouth Chamber: We need you to #MaskUpHoosiers; Warren County opts to outsource tourism; Letters for June 19: Three chambers of commerce stand for change, diversity; #BestChamber practice: La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership (LEAP) weekly newsletter; Arlington Chamber: Virginia to Enter Phase Three on Wednesday, July 1; Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce - Peninsula SHRM Future of Working: 07-13-20 - 07-17-20; Natchez Bicycle Classic will be Ride not Race;

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

7 SBA Programs Every Small Business Should Know About

Since 1953, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has focused on providing assistance to small business owners and entrepreneurs in various forms. On top of providing guidance to small businesses, this federal agency also offers programs to business owners in order to help them receive loans, grants, mentoring, and federal contracting opportunities.

Here are seven programs run by or affiliated with the SBA that small business owners should know.

8(a) Business Development program

One of the most important SBA offerings small business owners should know about is 8(a) Business Development. The 8(a) program connects “socially and economically disadvantaged” businesses with opportunities to compete for federal contracts, get assistance with navigating federal contracting, create joint ventures with mentor companies and receive training and development help.

To qualify for 8(a), your business must be “51 percent owned and controlled by U.S. citizens who are economically and socially disadvantaged” and meet a few other qualifiers, such as having a personal net worth of less than $250,000. The federal government has a goal of awarding at least 5% of contracting dollars for businesses with the 8(a) designation, so if there’s any chance your business qualifies, it’s good to seek out certification.

All Small Mentor-Protégé Program

A unique offering created by the SBA is the All Small Mentor-Protégé Program. This program can help small businesses by letting them team up with established “mentor companies” in bidding for federal contracts reserved for small businesses. The All Small program is not a matchmaking program, so protégé and mentor companies should already be tightly connected when they apply to the program. The benefits of the program are two-fold:

• Small businesses that may not have the resources, capital or training to win a large contract have a better chance to do so with the help of an experienced mentor, and
• Large businesses can aid less experienced businesses while also getting a chance to bid on potentially lucrative contracts.

HUBZone Program

The Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone) Program has been designed by the SBA to give more contracting opportunities to small businesses located in HUBZones, which are typically areas with above-average economic development needs. To qualify, your company’s principal office must be located in a HUBZone, at least 35% of employees must live in a HUBZone, and the company must be “at least 51 percent owned and controlled by U.S. citizens, a Community Development Corporation, an agricultural cooperative, a Native Hawaiian organization, or an Indian tribe.” Federal agencies attempt to award 3% of their contracts to certified-HUBZone small businesses each year. Read about four more programs in CO

The Wauwatosa Chamber of Commerce is Partnering with Network Health

The Wauwatosa Chamber of Commerce is Partnering with Network Health to Offer a Health Insurance Benefit for Chamber Members at a Discounted Rate! 

Whether you are a business shopping for affordable health insurance for you and your employees; or an insurance agent, please join us for a free Zoom event on July 20, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. to learn about this new benefit for Chamber members. Network Health representatives will provide a summary of the benefits and be available to answer your questions.

Register here (FREE)

Paducah Chamber to Host July PIP Virtually and Feature a Salute to Local Non-Profits

by Sandra Wilson

The Paducah Area Chamber of Commerce is starting back with hosting their monthly Power in Partnership breakfasts beginning on July 9 with a virtual broadcast. “While this is certainly a different approach for our monthly event, we have had so much encouragement to begin these again even in a different format, that we are excited about this opportunity” said Sandra Wilson, Paducah Chamber President. Peel & Holland is the sponsor.   

“Every July our breakfast features a salute to some of our non-profit organizations,” Wilson added. “We did not want to pass up this opportunity. We will be featuring our local non-profit health and human service organizations.”  

The virtual breakfast will be held on July 9 at 7:30 a.m. and carried live via a social media platform.  Details about how to join the call will be released closer to the event date.  The live broadcast will originate from the Commerce Center in the Paducah Bank Community Room.   

In addition, there will be a featured speaker, Alexia Savage with United Way Worldwide, who is the Southeast Region of the United States Engagement Director.  She supports 275 United Ways in nine states. She will discuss the ever-changing role of non-profit organizations during these challenging times and the importance of continuing to support them.  Savage has 18 years of nonprofit experience in both the arts and health and human services sectors.  She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Art History and a Master of Science in Nonprofit Management, both from Florida Atlantic University. She lives in Lake Worth, Florida with her husband and son. 

Below are the details of the breakfast:

When: Thursday, July 9, 7:30 a.m.

Where: Virtual Breakfast Broadcast live from the Commerce Center Paducah Bank Community Room

Speaker: Alexia Savage, United Way Worldwide

Special Recognition:  Salute to Non-Profit Health and Human Service Organizations

Lake Zurich Chamber - Wauconda Chamber: Lake County Grant Program

Small Business Assistance Grant Available to Help Lake County Companies

Lake County just launched an important new small business assistance grant fund to help local businesses impacted by COVID-19 reopen and adjust to the new operating environment. The intent of the grant is to cover occupancy and some operating costs for up to four months.

The grants cover 4.5-times average monthly rent, capped at $30,000, and can be used for payroll, business rent/mortgage, utilities, inventory, and incremental COVID-19 related business expenses.

A business must be located in Lake County, have less than $2.5 million in annual revenue and be incorporated - LLC, LLP, S Corporation, Sole Proprietor, etc. Currently, independent contractors are not eligible.

The application window will be open from 8 a.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2020 to 11:59 p.m. on Monday, July 20, 2020. For more information go to www.lakecountyil.gov/forward

Park Ridge Chamber Announces New Executive Director Effective August 2020

"It is with great optimism for the future of the Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce and the greater Park Ridge business community that I announce the appointment of Jacqueline K. Mathews as Executive Director of the Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce effective August 3, 2020.  Upon notification of the impending retirement of Gail Haller from the position, following twelve years of dedicated and excellent service, the Board of Directors was entrusted with the responsibility to select someone for the role who was best suited to lead the Chamber during these unprecedented times and into the future.  The Board of Directors and the Search Committee are in full agreement that this person is Jackie Mathews!

Jackie is a proven community, business, and government network relationship specialist.  She has an extensive results-driven and process-oriented background which includes successes in leading revenue generation, fundraising, and related development initiatives, enhancing organizational image equity, and launching strategic enterprises.  Anyone who knows Jackie knows that she is highly collaborative and service-oriented and that she possesses exemplary communication skills and superior relationship management competencies.

For the better part of the past two decades, Jackie has held professional and volunteer leadership roles within the Park Ridge community. Jackie has had transformational impact on two of our local flagship healthcare organizations.  Most recently she served as the Major Gifts Officer for Advocate Lutheran General Hospital and Advocate Charitable Foundation where she led the hospital’s annual signature special event, the ‘Gala’, as well as the Men and Women’s Association Golf Outing, the South Asian Cardiovascular Center’s ‘A Red Sari Evening’ and the grand opening celebrations for both the hospital’s new Emergency Department and the Heart Institute.  In addition, she designed and executed a major gift strategy that resulted in a $1.25 Million donation for an endowed Emergency Department Chair.  Jackie was recruited to Lutheran General Hospital by then President, Tony Armada, from Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care, where she provided leadership direction for major gifts and special events, including three highly successful public art exhibitions that significantly elevated the organization’s mission and reputation within the community.  Jackie serves on the Taste of Park Ridge Committee, the Park Ridge Holiday Lights Commission and Co-Chairs Park Ridge Restaurant Week with Mayor Marty Maloney.  Earlier in Jackie’s career, she held professional roles with the United States Senate in Washington D.C., Chicago’s City Hall, and the Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago. 

Jackie has a strong history with the Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce having served as a Board Member, President-Elect, President, and Past President.  As Past President she was invited to serve as Chairperson of the Community Star Awards Committee and she continues to serve in that role.  Jackie’s loyalty to the Chamber exemplifies a commitment to the greater Park Ridge business community and is reflective of the pride she feels in calling Park Ridge home.  The Board of Directors believes that her background, her reputation in the community and her vision for the future of the Chamber uniquely position her for the role of Executive Director and will elevate the Chamber’s impact and future success."

Marko Ratic

President, Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce

Owner, North Shore Motor Works

Front Royal Warren County Chamber of Commerce Community Profile & Membership Directory  

The Front Royal Warren County Chamber of Commerce Community Profile & Membership Directory is available at the Front Royal Warren County Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to Niki Foster and Pam Riffle and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together! 

2019 Front Royal Warren County Community Profile and Membership 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.

West Michigan chambers of commerce ask Congress for more K-12 funding in wake of pandemic

 Several organizations representing the West Michigan business community are calling for more federal support for schools in the wake of $3 billion in shortfalls between the general and school aid funds.

In addition to providing additional funding for schools, the organizations say Congress should loosen restrictions on already provided funds through the CARES Act.

“Without additional financial support from the federal government, schools will be required to make significant cuts,” said Jane Clark, president of the Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce. “These cuts will have a negative impact on the safety of students and the support they need to be successful.”

The billions of dollars in shortfalls translates into a $650 per student reduction, the organizations said in a news release.

That could mean forced staff layoffs, increased class sizes, reduced student support services and possibly even school closures, the release said.

Schools last faced such drastic cuts during the Great Recession in 2008. At that time, Congress passes multiple stimulus packages, including one in 2010 that directed more than $1.5 billion toward Michigan’s K-12 system.

Some economists say the coronavirus pandemic will hit the economy twice as hard.

Michigan’s chambers of commerce say schools may need an addition $3-5 billion over the next three fiscal years.

“As we all work through this pandemic, we will continue to have a need for skilled graduates,” said Cindy Larsen, president of Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce. “Funding cuts would be devastating to our schools' efforts to educate children and create a foundation for a strong economic return.”

Organizations calling for federal action include the Grand Rapids Chamber, Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses, Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce, Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce, West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Wyoming Kentwood Chamber of Commerce along with The Chamber of Grand Haven, Spring Lake and Ferrysburg. Read more: Fox 17

$14.66 million for New Economic Resilience and Recovery Program in Virginia

Governor Ralph Northam today announced more than $14.66 million for a new Economic Resilience and Recovery Program to respond to the unprecedented economic conditions facing Virginia and address the near and long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

This initiative was created through a restructuring of Growth and Opportunity for Virginia (GO Virginia) funding.

The program will focus resources on economic resilience and recovery while staying true to the GO Virginia mission of creating higher-paying jobs that strengthen and diversify regional economies.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has had an unprecedented impact on our economy, and we must use every asset we have to assist businesses and communities as we rebuild,” said Governor Northam. “GO Virginia will be a key partner as we work to spearhead an economic recovery and drive new economic development. Through the Economic Resilience and Recovery program, GO Virginia has been able to pivot and help support these important initiatives throughout the Commonwealth.”

The GO Virginia Board has approved a policy to implement the Economic Resilience and Recovery Program with up to $14.66 million in GO Virginia funds.

Each GO Virginia regional council may apply for up to $1 million to support strategic initiatives in response to the economic conditions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, the GO Virginia Board approved flexible policy changes to accelerate the deployment of funding.

Applications will be accepted through the nine GO Virginia Regional Councils. For more information on the regional councils, click here. Read more: WVVA

Plymouth Chamber: We need you to #MaskUpHoosiers

Indiana is slowly reopening for business, but the fight against COVID-19 is far from over. Wearing a face mask is one of the simplest, most effective ways to slow the spread of the virus, but we need everyone to do their part to keep our state safe. That’s why we are asking all Hoosiers to mask up — and speak up about how wearing your mask can save lives. Read more: IN.gov

Warren County opts to outsource tourism

The Warren County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday decided to outsource tourism to a private entity.

This comes after months of tourism-related discussions that were commenced in February when the town’s Director of Community Development and Tourism Felicia Hart was fired and Interim Town Manager Matt Tederick announced that the town would no longer fund the salaries of Visitors Center’s employees beginning in July.

While the town has funded the Visitors Center’s salaries and tourism-related matters for the town and county since 1993, state code mandates that 3% of the county’s lodging tax be directed toward tourism purposes.

Supervisor Delores Oates noted that the town’s tourism budget for the upcoming fiscal year is $225,000 while the county’s is $200,000.

In 2017, the town and county created a joint tourism advisory committee, according to the supervisors’ Tuesday agenda, “to advise, assist, support, and advocate for tourism policies, programs, and activities to market and promote” the town and county. This fulfills a state code requirement that the county consults with a tourism organization regarding how its lodging tax revenue will be used to generate visitors. Recently, two members of both the Town Council and Board of Supervisors were added to the joint tourism committee.

Other representatives include several business owners, Chamber of Commerce Director Niki Foster and Logan.

The committee was recently asked to compile options regarding how tourism would be handled. The committee reached a consensus to recommend the option in which a private contractor would be sought to market the town and county. Read more: Northern Virginia Daily

Letters for June 19: Three chambers of commerce stand for change, diversity

The Hampton Roads Chamber, the Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Williamsburg Business Council stand united to promote economic development, diversity, equity and inclusion. We are three chambers of commerce ready to confront the issues facing our region and to do our part to put an end to racial inequity in Hampton Roads.

The COVID-19 pandemic has left businesses struggling. Now racial tension, protests and, in some extreme cases, violence are threatening to shut down newly reopened businesses. This adversely impacts all of us.

We stand firmly with those who want and deserve equity, diversity and inclusion. We believe the time for change in our nation is now. We most strongly endorse the message of the peaceful protesters.

All men are created equal. All people deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. The chambers are connecting with leaders throughout the community to listen, drive change, and lead our economy into a bright and inclusive future. We will build each other up as we rebuild the 757. We are 757 Strong.

By Bryan K. Stephens, president & CEO, Hampton Roads Chamber; Robert McKenna, president & CEO, Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce; Terry Banez, CEO, Greater Williamsburg Business Council

#BestChamber practice: La Porte Economic Advancement Partnership (LEAP) weekly newsletter

A LEAP Member Spotlight: Larson-Danielson Construction

As our world evolves, it is vital for companies in any industry to evolve with it. The ability to adapt with the times and the introduction of new technology is essential to the success of a company. Innovation has been written into Larson-Danielson Construction’s working philosophy since the start. What makes the La Porte-based company stand out, however, is that they pioneered some of the industry-standard processes in use today. From design/build to a cohesive project management plan—the state’s only construction company to offer this service—innovation and adaptability to customers’ needs are written into its values and daily operations.

Founded in 1908 by the Larson brothers, Charles and Frank, and their cousin, Emil Danielson, Larson-Danielson Construction quickly cemented itself as a trustworthy and reliable construction company in La Porte, Indiana.

Read The Article Here!

Arlington Chamber: Virginia to Enter Phase Three on Wednesday, July 1

Governor Northam announced that the Commonwealth of Virginia will begin Phase Three of the Forward Virginia reopening plan on Wednesday, July 1. Phase Three further relaxes some of the restrictions currently in force in Phase Two. Many of the numerical caps are removed, but many of the space-based rules remain to promote social distancing.

The Phase Three Guidelines include guidance to all sectors on best practices for physical distancing, enhanced cleaning and disinfection, and enhanced workplace safety. As with the Phase One and Two guidelines, they also include many industry-specific requirements and best practices.

Please consult the full Phase Three Guideline document for all requirements that apply to your sector and to all businesses. Highlights of the changes are in this slide presentation.

The Chamber is here to support our members through the reopening process. Please visit our COVID-19 Resource Center for more reopening resources, and please reach out to us at chamber@arlingtonchamber.org if there is anything we can do to help you

PHASE THREE GUIDELINES

Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce - Peninsula SHRM Future of Working: 07-13-20 - 07-17-20 

Agility. Analytics. Artificial Intelligence

One Week of Interactive Sessions on the Future of Work and the HR Profession

Pending 9 SHRM & HRCI Recertification Credits

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

KEYNOTE:

Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP

President & CEO of SHRM

TICKETS:

PenSHRM Member -- $0

Non-Member (Guest) -- $40

2020 Sponsor Package - PenSHRM Virtual Conference -- $125

DOCUMENTS:

2020 Conference Brochure

REGISTER NOW

Natchez Bicycle Classic will be Ride not Race

It’s a Ride not a Race!

The Natchez-Adams Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals and Leadership Natchez are delighted to announce the rebirth of the Natchez Bicycle Classic on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2020.

Though we initially scheduled it for May, the Young Professionals Executive Committee could not have predicted that we would undergo a global pandemic. This ride will be compliant with COVID-19 guidelines and, thankfully, this event is held entirely outdoors, and cyclists can be spaced easily.

For the past four years, this collaboration has held the Color Natchez 5K. Since this committee felt that this event has “run its course”, it was decided to go a different “route.” The Color Natchez 5K primarily catered to the local market/participants and we are venturing to think bigger.

Debbie Hudson, President and CEO of the Natchez-Adams Chamber of Commerce, was reading about a similar ride in Greenwood, Mississippi that occurs in August. Their most recent ride brought over 1,100 riders to their area (in August). So, our group once again met and figured out how to make this happen in Natchez. Our focus has been on the potential economic impact it could bring to our area and planned it on an open weekend in Natchez and an open weekend on the Mississippi-Louisiana Bicycling Association Calendar. Lucky for us, it is Memorial Day weekend. Read more: Natchez Democrat

Parks Chamber: Markus Smith State Farm Purchasing Food Truck meals for Essential Workers

You’re invited to help promote and attend a special event for Essential Workers on Friday, June 12, 2020 from 12:00 PM - 5:30 PM at Markus Smith State Farm Agency Parking Lot, located at 5535 N. 2nd Street in Loves Park, Illinois.

Markus Smith State Farm is purchasing food truck meals for the first 250 Essential Workers who register in advance and bring their badge or wear their uniform to the event. There are many "behind the scene" workers who have worked hard to keep things functioning during the COVID-19 pandemic, and Markus Smith State Farm appreciates all they do for our community.

Please see the Media Advisory attached for more information or contact Markus Smith at markus@markusismyagent.com and Rose Smith at rose.n.smith@charter.net.

TONYA LAMIA

THE PARKS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

815.633.3999

tonya@ParksChamber.com

ParksChamber.com

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

Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best Chamber Partner in the USA!

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

or email John Dussman with the subject line: Chamber Assistance Requested. Thank you!