Chamber of Commerce Daily News

Town Square Publications (https://www.townsquarepublications.com) publishes two hundred world class turn-key chamber directories, community guides and maps annually at no cost to the chamber of commerce. We are Employee-Owned & part of the Daily Herald Media Group.149 years old and thriving through innovation daily. Chamber of Commerce Daily News follows chamber news, education, economic development, chamber jobs, and other related chamber issues/events. Best, John Dussman

Wednesday, July 6, 2016

Commerce Lexington Inc. Recognized Among Top Chambers of Commerce for Third Consecutive Year; #FamousChamber of Commerce Quotations: Honoring Volunteers; #BestChamber practices: Grand Rapids Area Chamber: Why Video & Why Now; Presence Healing Arts Pavilion receives Plainfield Chamber business award; Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce 2016 Business Directory and Resource Guide; Chamber news: Agape House wins Visit Lake Geneva Restaurant Week charity check; Keep Virginia Beautiful Awards $500 Grant to the Greater Williamsburg Chamber & Tourism Alliance; Lawrence County Chamber award: Charles Bufkin to be honored with reception at Civic Center; #BestChamber Practices: Muncie-Delaware County Chamber Testimonial; Town Square Publications Chamber of Commerce Membership Directories, Community Profiles, Re-Location Guides and Custom Maps;

Good morning Chamber World! It's going to be a GREAT day!

Commerce Lexington Inc. Recognized Among Top Chambers of Commerce for Third Consecutive Year

Bob Quick

[LEXINGTON, Ky.] – For the third consecutive year, Commerce Lexington Inc. has been recognized among top chambers of commerce internationally as a finalist for the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives’ (ACCE) 2016 Chamber of the Year Award. Since 2007, ACCE has annually recognized chambers of commerce in various size categories for their work leading businesses and communities with the Chamber of the Year Award, which recognizes excellence in operations, member services, and community leadership.

Commerce Lexington Inc. President and CEO Bob Quick, CCE, said, “We are humbled to be recognized once again among the top chambers of commerce within a category that contains some of the largest chambers in the country. The comprehensive nature of this honor means a lot to our board, staff, volunteers, and members, who contribute daily to our efforts to enhance our community, but it also affirms that we are doing quality work in events, programs and services across our organization.”

ACCE President and Chief Executive Officer Mick Fleming said, “Applicants have already proven themselves worthy of emulation and praise by the time they reach finalist status. Only chambers meeting certain benchmarks are even invited to apply, so becoming a finalist is a big deal. In each case, the chamber’s numbers are good, their highlighted programs are strong and their impact on businesses and communities is evident.”

The Chamber of the Year process begins with the Annual Operations Survey. Applicants qualified to compete by completing the survey and meeting thresholds in at least four of six key performance areas including: net revenue, net assets, reserve funds, membership account retention, and membership dollar retention.

ACCE staff and the Chamber of the Year volunteer judging committee determine the competition category for each applicant based on established criteria, including: annual revenue, member accounts, service area population, number of businesses in the service area, and restricted revenue as a percentage of total revenue. In the final phase of award process, the judging committee conducts in-person interviews with leaders from each finalist chamber. Read more: Commerce Lexington

#FamousChamber of Commerce Quotations: Honoring Volunteers

“Volunteering is so pervasive it’s invisible. We take for granted all the things that have been pioneered by concerned, active volunteers.” – Susan J. Ellis

https://www.energizeinc.com/ looks to be a great resource about volunteers.

#BestChamber practices: Grand Rapids Area Chamber: Why Video & Why Now

Everyone is talking about it … video is the next big thing in marketing. With all the articles out there, how do you know where to start? We put in the work for you and compiled what we think you’ll need to know to improve your video marketing strategies.

Taking Video to the Next Level

Pinterest & cinematic pins
Cinematic pins uses a new motioned based format that enables enhanced storytelling for brands
while giving users control. Pins move as the user scrolls, stops when the user stops.
360% View Video
Take your marketing into virtual reality. Great for tours, featuring an event, and so much more! Post it to Facebook or YouTube and track how it does.
LiveStream
Looking to give a “live” look to your audience? Livestream video is the way to go! Be as instantaneous as you can, but always remember – you are LIVE!
Interactive Videos
The next “big thing” for marketing, interactive videos give the users more choice than ever before, allowing the customer to take part in the video and affect its outcome.
Tips to be Successful
1. Keep your video under 1 minute! Most viewers will close the video anywhere past 1 minute, resulting in lost messaging. Instagram figured this out – allowing videos to last 3-60 seconds.
2. Don’t forget to post your video to multiple platforms – including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Youtube, your website, and your emails! Implix found that including a video during the beginning of their email increased their click-through rate by 96%.
3. Track and analyze. Don’t forget to optimize your video for search engines—use relevant tags, include additional links, and at least one keyword in the title. Track your results on each platform; find what worked best and what needs to change. You can always do better! Source : Grand Rapids Area Chamber

Presence Healing Arts Pavilion receives Plainfield Chamber business award

Presence Healing Arts Pavilion was recently named Professional Service Business of The Year by the Plainfield Area Chamber of Commerce.

In addition to recognizing the convenient and quality healthcare options that the Healing Arts Pavilion provides for the community, the award also acknowledges Presence Health’s continual community support through event sponsorships and other partnerships.

The 25,000 square foot custom-designed Healing Arts Pavilion, 16615 South Route 59 in Plainfield, opened last October and delivers outpatient services including primary care, specialty care, laboratory, imaging, and physical therapy in a modern healthcare setting. The facility also hosts educational programs and community events. Read more: Herald-News

Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce 2016 Business Directory and Resource Guide

The Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce 2016 Business Directory and Resource Guide is available at the Virginia Peninsula Chamber today! Thanks to Mike Kuhns, Suzy Johnson and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Town SquarePublications (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.

Chamber news: Agape House wins Visit Lake Geneva Restaurant Week charity check

Restaurant Week, June 3 to 12, was a big event for 25 Lake Geneva restaurants.

And it turned out to be an exceptionally good week for Agape House in Walworth.

Diners during Restaurant Week were given ballots to vote for one of five area charities and nonprofits to receive a $5,000 donation from Lake Geneva Country Meats.

Agape House, a ministry that works with girls, young women and families to overcome the effects of abuse, addiction and the pains of their past, took the most votes. The check presentation by Nick Vorpagel of Country Meats was made June 23 during the Restaurant Week Wrap Up at The Ridge Hotel, W4249 State Highway 50, town of Geneva.

"The coolest thing I did this year was visit each of (the) charities," Vorpagel said. And he said the experience was humbling.

Agape House cares for young women, he recounted. Open Arms provides free health care, The Time Is Now helps people get through financial crises, SMILES uses horses to help people with special needs and the Geneva Lake Museum preserves history.

"I just give people bratwurst," said Vorpagel.

Vorpagel said the top three vote-getters were SMILES with 511 votes; Open Arms came in second with 634 votes. Agape House won with 691 votes.

Pam Patterson, Agape House founder and executive director, could not be at the event. Her daughter, Sophia Erzumiah was there to accept the donation.

Erzumiah said later that the money will go to pay the salaries of the six or seven staff members at the house. This time of year, donations are at a low point, she said.

"This donation will certainly help," she said.

The wrap up party was sponsored by VISIT Lake Geneva, which is also the Geneva Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and Convention and Visitors Bureau. Read more: LakeGenvaNews.net

Keep Virginia Beautiful Awards $500 Grant to the Greater Williamsburg Chamber & Tourism Alliance

Karen Riordan

Williamsburg, VA – The Greater Williamsburg Chamber & Tourism Alliance (GWCTA) has been awarded a grant of $500 from Keep Virginia Beautiful during its annual “30 Grants in Thirty Days.” Government, non-profit, civic and service organizations in Virginia were invited to apply for grants for $500 to $1,000 telling how they are addressing these pressing issues: Litter Prevention, Recycling, Cigarette Litter Prevention, and Community Beautification.

The Greater Williamsburg Chamber & Tourism Alliance has started a “Chamber Clean Coalition” project to promote litter clean-up efforts in the roadways to further enhance businesses and visitors experiences. GWCTA plans to maintain a clean welcome area to visitors and residents on route 60 through the Adopt-A-Highway program in order to advocate, collaborate, and help new businesses emerge and existing business grow, while giving everyone the experience they deserve.

“We are very thankful to Keep Virginia Beautiful for the generous grant! Our Earth Day Clean Up Day was a great success. Our job at GWCTA is to promote this beautiful destination we live in and keeping it clean is very important. We take any opportunity we can to get out in the community and help out!” said Karen Riordan, President and CEO of the Greater Williamsburg Chamber & Tourism Alliance. More information: Patrick Quinn 757.476.6820 Patrick@williamsburgcc.com

Lawrence County Chamber award: Charles Bufkin to be honored with reception at Civic Center

Every so often in a generation, an exceptional person comes along. This person has a strong work ethic, a dedication to community and family, and the ability to make a friend in anyone they meet.
Mr. Charles Bufkin, a native of Lawrence County, is this person. After a 40-year absence from his childhood hometown, he returned to the area in 1991 with his wife, Merle. The couple reside on the outskirts of Monticello, the perfect place to lead an active retirement life.
Bufkin has been instrumental in many of the community efforts of the town through his hard work and community involvement for 25 years. Now, the town is coming together to honor him for his dedication to Monticello. On Friday, July 1, from 4-6 p.m., a come and go reception will be held at the Lawrence County Civic Center. The reception is sponsored by the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce Service Club, with the assistance and attendance of many of the other clubs and organizations of which Bufkin has been a part. Many of Bufkin’s family members will be present, and those who attend will have the opportunity to visit the Military Museum and the Regional Museum located at the Center. Mr. Charles has been deeply involved in museum projects and in the upkeep and establishment of the Civic Center as a museum and event destination.
Bufkin began school at Monticello Grammar School in 1939. He has great pride in the fact that he played football, basketball and baseball and ran track for the Monticello Red Devils. When he was a senior in high school in 1951, he chose the GI Bill to receive further education for free, and enlisted with the local guard unit. He served in the Korean War in the Co. D 106th Engineer, 31st Infantry “Dixie” Divison.
Bufkin worked with a diversified chemical company out of Wayne, New Jersey for 34 years. He was awarded as the top salesman for 6 of those years. After 40 years away from his hometown, he and Mrs. Merle decided to relocate to Monticello, and they immediately jumped into community work. The awards and volunteer efforts that Bufkin has received or been involved in are numerous. In 1997, he received the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce Civic Award, and in 2001, he was awarded the Lawrence County Exchange Club’s “Book of Golden Deeds” award. Though he has many awards and accolades on his bookshelves, he cites the Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce E.M. Graham Award of Excellence as his highest honor. The award, which Mr. Charles received in 2008, is the Chamber’s top award, given to those who selflessly serve Lawrence County, its clubs and organizations and its people. Read more: Lawrence County Press

#BestChamber Practices: Muncie-Delaware County Chamber Testimonial on website

"The impact of wisdom and acuity of the Muncie-Delaware County Chamber in such a difficult economic time has kept the Mursix Companies completely aware of the opportunities necessary to survive and grow in Delaware County".

Todd Murray, President

Mursix Corporation

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

Tuesday, July 5, 2016

Tuned-in leadership helps chambers hold their own; Building a More Entrepreneurial Indy; Michigan West Coast Chamber news: 250 new jobs pledged with Michigan firm's $5.6M expansion; New Arrival: Shorewood Area 2016 Community Map; Redskins Coach Jay Gruden Shares Management Tips with Loudoun Chamber; Danville-Boyle County Chamber interest: Boyle Fiscal Court agrees to spend $10,000 on EDP strategic plan; Carnival rides will return to Libertyfest in Twin Lakes; Jackson County Chamber event: La Pointe Krebs Foundation to open its museum to public on Friday in Pascagoula; #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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Friday, July 1, 2016

Happy July 4th Friday, Chamber World! Have a GREAT weekend!; Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Named As Finalist for 2016 Chamber of the Year; Applications available for Peninsula chapter of Young Entrepreneurs Academy; #BestChamber practices: Rochester Regional Shop Local Program; New Arrival: Romeoville 2016 Community & Membership Directory; #BestChamber Practices: La Porte Chamber New Teachers Welcome Luncheon; Greater Springfield Chamber recognizes notable business leaders; Nissan impact on Mississippi economy continues to grow; US Chamber: Right Major, Job Bring Higher Lifetime Earnings; Portage Area Chamber: ‘Generosity’ of community makes July 2 concert possible; Town Square Publications Chamber of Commerce Membership Directories, Community Profiles and Custom Maps;

Happy July 4th Friday, Chamber World! Have a GREAT weekend!

Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce Named As Finalist for 2016 Chamber of the Year

The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, 2009 Chamber of the Year, was recently named one of four finalists nationwide for the American Chamber of Commerce Executive’s (ACCE) 2016 Chamber of the Year. This most recent honor marks the 3^rd time in 3 years that the Chamber has been invited to apply for Chamber of the Year and the 2^ndtime in as many years that the Chamber has been named a national finalist.

Chamber of the Year is the nation’s only award recognizing the dual role chambers have in leading businesses and communities. Chambers honored with the Chamber of the Year designation have not only demonstrated organizational strength, but also have made an impact on key community priorities such as education, transportation, business development and quality of life.

The Chamber of the Year award involves a multi-stage process, which includes a detailed operations survey, application and interview. Only a handful of chambers nationwide are asked to compete beyond the operations survey. The application process takes several weeks, with each department submitting detailed information and case studies on initiatives completed throughout the previous year. The finalists are then named based on the scoring of the in-depth application process. From there, each finalist chamber will undergo a 45 minute interview in front of a panel of 4 judges.

“We couldn’t be more proud to once again be named a finalist for the Chamber of the Year Award. The invitation-only application process is rigorous and comprehensive, and we wouldn’t be here without the hard work of our volunteers, our Chamber leadership, and our professional Chamber staff,” said Ron Bunch, President and CEO of the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce. “Adding to our 2009 win and our 2014 finalist designation, we are thrilled to once again be recognized on the national stage.”

“The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce maintains a strong focus on the needs of our partners and the growth of our community. We work in collaboration with our local leadership on a regular basis to ensure our partners have a community with a strong local economy and vibrant quality of life where their businesses can grow and prosper. We are delighted to be recognized by the ACCE for our efforts,” said Tonya Matthews, Vice President, Partnership Services at the Chamber.

Winners for the award will be announced at the ACCE Annual Convention August 9-12, 2016 in Savannah.

The Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce is also a 5 Star Accredited Chamber of Commerce, as named by the United States Chamber of Commerce. The accreditation process is a comprehensive examination of every aspect of a Chamber’s operations over a 2 year period, including governance, finance, human resources, government affairs, program development, technology, communications, facilities, and benchmarking. According to the US Chamber of Commerce, only 1% of the Chambers of Commerce in the United States have achieved 5 Star Accreditation. The Bowling Green Area Chamber is proud to have achieved the 5 star milestone without a lapse since 1973.

“Achieving these two significant milestones isn’t easy. Our Chamber is among the elite. I’m not sure that it is common knowledge that out of more than 7,000 chambers across the country, we are ranked in the top 1%, according to the U.S. Chamber’s thorough evaluation process. This means that our partners have a Corvette when it comes to chambers, and they helped build it!” said Mark Iverson, Chairman of the Bowling Green Area Chamber Board of Directors. Read more: Bowling Green Area Chamber

#FamousChamber of Commerce Quotation: (July 4th)

"I would remind you that extremism in defense of liberty is no vice. And let me remind you that moderation in pursuit of justice is no virtue." --- Barry Goldwater

Applications available for Peninsula chapter of Young Entrepreneurs Academy

Middle and high school students interested in starting and running their own businesses are encouraged to apply for the Young Entrepreneurs Academy, or YEA!, class of 2017.

Participants will brainstorm business ideas, write a business plan, interact with professionals and, about 70 percent of the way through the program, pitch their ideas to potential investors.

They'll then obtain funding, register their businesses, participate in a trade show and launch their professional endeavors.

The 2016 class, the second of the Peninsula chapter, consisted of 10 students, but up to around 20 could be accepted this year.

"Students in the program actually become business owners over the course of the school year, and the other thing to note as well is students get to work with different business professionals throughout our local community, building relationships with them as they learn to build their own businesses," said program manager Jemal Harris, who also is the economic advancement director of the Virginia Peninsula Chamber of Commerce.

Previous classes have produced tech products, apps, services and even organic air fragrances."Students are like 'Wow, I own it, I run it,' and parents are excited because their students know all these bankers, lawyers, accountants, business owners. It's a great benefit on both ends." Read more: Daily Press

#BestChamber practices: Rochester Regional Shop Local Program

SHOPLOCAL DOLLARS PROGRAM

ShopLocal Dollars is a regional economic development initiative to keep spending in the greater Rochester communities, promote our local businesses and offer a convenient online gift certificate program for doing so!

How do I sign up my business?

Click here to complete the Participating Merchant form. Click the Signup button and enter invitation code ROCHESTER to get started. Questions? Contact the Chamber office at (248) 651-6700.

More information: Rochester Regional Chamber

New Arrival: Romeoville 2016 Community & Membership Directory

The Romeoville 2016 Community & Membership Directory is available at the Romeoville Chamber of Commerce today! Thanks to Michelle Jarnutowski, Gina Sopko 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.

#BestChamber Practices: La Porte Chamber New Teachers Welcome Luncheon

When: August 4th, registration begins at 11:00 a.m.

Where: The Silver Palace, 1719 State Street, La Porte

Cost: $25 per person, members may also sponsor an educator for $25 or be an event sponsor for $35

Please join us in welcoming and celebrating new teachers and administrators from the local area at the New Teachers Welcome Luncheon on August 4th at 11:00 a.m.

All Chamber members and their employees are invited to attend the event, which includes a buffet lunch at the Silver Palace, 1719 State Street in La Porte. Members can sponsor an educator for a cost of $25 per person and also attend the luncheon at a cost of $25 per person. Event sponsorships are available for $35 (company name will be listed in press releases, on table placards and announced at lunch. Must sponsor at least one educator to participate).

Chamber members are also invited to provide coupons or promotional items to be given to new teachers in a welcome packet. If you wish to donate to the welcome packets, feel free to drop off 55 of the items at the Chamber or call 219.362.3178. Read more: La Porte Chamber

Greater Springfield Chamber recognizes notable business leaders

The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce recently hosted the 31st Annual Small Business Person of the Year Awards, honoring notables from the community.

The event, presented by Hickory Point Bank & Trust, recognized five business leaders.

Jonna Cooley of The Phoenix Center was named nonprofit business director of the year. She has worked in social services for 30 years and has served at the center since 2006.

Susan Sullivan Danenberger, of Danenberger Family Vineyards, was recognized as new and emerging business owner of the year. After a tornado hit her family farm in 2006, she transformed the fifth-generation farm into a vineyard and winery. Since the first grapes were planted eight years ago, its wines have earned recognition in international competitions.

The recipient for the small business owner of the year award is Laura Carmody of Home Instead Senior Care. Since 2011, her business has won nine national revenue awards.

The recipient of the lifetime award for business owner of the year is Stan Travelstead of American Central Insurance Services. His agency has been in business for 29 years.

Finally, the 2016 recipients for outstanding civic involvement are Sergio Pecori, Jeff Ball, Bob Cusick and Jo Ellen Keim of Hanson Professional Services. The company's Grow Our Own Minority Participation Program is nationally recognized for fostering high school students' interest in careers involving science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The company provides opportunities through education, job training and paid internships. Read more: Illinois Business Daily

Nissan impact on Mississippi economy continues to grow

Nissan’s automotive assembly plant at Canton continues to grow as a major economic player in the immediate area and statewide, according to a new study.

Nissan’s direct and indirect contribution to the state’s gross domestic product averages $2.9 billion a year, up from $2.5 billion in a 2013 report from the National Strategic Planning and Analysis Research Center.

Additional local and state tax revenue has reached $300 million a year, compared with $180 million in the 2013 report by the center, which is located at Mississippi State University.

Another 9,000 jobs have been added to the state since 2013, bringing the total to 25,000.

The latest data were announced Thursday at the state Capitol by the Mississippi Economic Council, which is the state chamber of commerce, and Move Mississippi Forward, which describes itself as “a community voice for economic development.”

Nissan’s opening led the state to a shift toward advanced manufacturing in the state, including Toyota, Airbus Helicopters, Steel Dynamics, PAACAR, Yokohama Tire and Continental Tire, according to a release from the MEC.

The 2013 report was on the 10thanniversary of the plant’s opening. The newest one was conducted by the center only three years later, said Scott Waller, executive vice president and chief operating officer of the MEC, because the advanced-manufacturing database needed to be updated in anticipation of a statewide study.

The Rev. Dr. Dolphus Weary, co-chairman of Move Mississippi Forward, said in the release: “The investment Mississippi made in attracting Nissan as the state’s first automotive assembly plant is paying huge dividends for our state.” Read more: Mississippi Business

US Chamber: Right Major, Job Bring Higher Lifetime Earnings

We have all heard that college is one of the best investments a person can make. Most of us have probably heard that a bachelor’s degree is worth a million dollars in added lifetime earnings compared with a high school degree. And we have undoubtedly heard that a college degree is a ticket to a better job or a better career.

But we are also aware that today’s graduates struggle to find jobs and are in such serious debt that they can’t launch their lives. Recent graduates often wonder whether the money and the time spent on college was worthwhile. Meanwhile, employers across the nation are having difficulty filling millions of open jobs because of a mismatch in the skills students have and the skills employers need. As a result, we have people without jobs and jobs without people.

Discussions about the value of college need to focus on identifying the paths that enable students to make informed postsecondary choices that lead to well-paying careers and meaningful lives. This means choosing the right college, the right degree, and the right major. Read more: US Chamber

Portage Area Chamber: ‘Generosity’ of community makes July 2 concert possible

One of Portage’s favorite Fourth of July holiday pastimes is about to enter its 24th year in Pauquette Park — and that’s all thanks to generous local donors.

The Wisconsin Chamber Orchestra will share a themed performance dubbed “Bursts of Joy” beginning at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, a decades-old tradition that this year features the mother-daughter soprano team of Kitt and Alli Foss.

“They’re coming out of Madison to come to Portage, and you don’t find that very often from other orchestras,” Portage Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Marianne Hanson said. Bringing the group to Portage each year costs about $15,000, and the whole event, including the fireworks, costs $25,000, she added.

“Donations from people means you can listen to it free,” Hanson said, noting the Portage Chamber is “close to the goal” but is still accepting donations. “Twenty-five thousand dollars is a lot of money, and it’s because of the generosity of the community that we can continue this for 24 years.

“I think people don’t realize that, as an orchestra, that’s over 60 musicians, so it’s not one or two people — there are a lot of people involved, (including) a sound company and technician.”

“It really is a privilege,” Brad Conrad of the Portage Chamber said. “To have them come into Portage is a wonderful thing, and I think it elevates the culture in this town or at least contributes to it tremendously.”

The orchestra will play songs from the popular Broadway musical “Wicked,” as well as Disney selections like “Under the Sea,” and patriotic songs in celebration of Independence Day.

Residents, Hanson said, look forward to the orchestra’s performance year after year — and so does the orchestra. Read more: Portage Daily Register

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