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

Thursday, March 7, 2019

#FamousChamber of Commerce Quotation: (Be Happy Today!); Naperville Area Chamber Of Commerce Hosts 2019 State Of The City Address Featuring Mayor Steve Chirico; Greater Hattiesburg Mississippi Membership Directory and Business Guide 2018-2019; Greater La Porte Chamber, Greater La Porte Economic Development Corp. Teaming Up; Chamber issue: Interstate 81 legislation fuels debate over tolls; Clarkston Chamber Woman Business Leader of the Year; South Suburban Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory; Danville-Boyle County Chamber celebrating 100 years with ‘Birthday Bash; 5 Star Chamber: Aurora Regional Chamber: Public Policy Updates; Cedarburg Chamber: Congratulations to our Ladies Who Lead award recipients!; Picayune Chamber event: Opportunity Zone more than likely won’t be moved;

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

#FamousChamber of Commerce Quotation: (Be Happy Today!) -

Good Morning, This Is God!

I Will Be Handling All Your Problems Today

I Will Not Need Your Help

So Relax... and Have a Nice Day!

Naperville Area Chamber Of Commerce Hosts 2019 State Of The City Address Featuring Mayor Steve Chirico

The 2019 State of the City Address hosted by the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce (NACC) will be held on Monday, March 18, 2019 at Embassy Suites Chicago-Naperville, 1823 Abriter Court in Naperville. This event is presented by Navistar and Esser Hayes Insurance Group.

The address serves as an inspiring recap of the year’s events. The discussion will highlight the monumental progression of the area’s growth including new and existing businesses. Additionally, the address will turn an eye towards the future, as we will learn about a number of programs and initiatives scheduled for the coming year.

The NACC has hosted the State of the City Address for the past 35 years for the Naperville community starting with Mayor Peg Price. This program continues to be highly regarded by the Naperville business community and community at large.

“The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce continues to provide relevant resources for the success of our business community. If our businesses are successful, our community is successful,” said Nicki Anderson, NACC President/CEO. “We are committed to our partnership with the city of Naperville and Naperville Development Partnership to ensure that Naperville continues to be the number one choice for businesses and innovation.”

The Mayor also uses the program as an opportunity to recognize Naperville’s city officials and employees for their accomplishments and dedication to the community.

“The State of the City address is an important occasion for the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce and the City of Naperville,” Mayor Steve Chirico said. “This address is an opportunity to look back on the success stories of the past several years and showcase the vision of what’s to come in Naperville. Focusing on four main goals – financial stability, economic development, public safety and high-performing government – this year’s speech will show how Naperville is a game changer in terms of innovation and creativity in serving our residents, businesses and visitors.”

Registration and networking begin at 10:45 a.m. doors open at 11:15 a.m. with the program and lunch beginning at 11:30 a.m. To make a reservation, call the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce at 630.355.4141 or register online at www.naperville.net. Due to the popularity of this luncheon, early registration is highly recommended. Walk-in registration will not be available.

About the Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce

The Naperville Area Chamber of Commerce is the largest suburban Chamber in Illinois with an active membership of 1,200 organizations of every size and from every sector. The NACC promotes economic growth and advocacy in and around the Naperville area. For its efforts in promoting free enterprise and the business community, the Chamber has been recognized with 5-Star Accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, an honor bestowed on only 1 percent of Chambers, out of the nearly 7,000 in the nation. Visit www.naperville.net

Greater Hattiesburg Mississippi Membership Directory and Business Guide 2018-2019
The Greater Hattiesburg Mississippi Membership Directory and Business Guide 2018-2019 is available at the Area Development Partnership in Hattiesburg! Thank you to Chad Newell, Valencia Williamson and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Hattiesburg Membership Directory and Business Guide 2018-2019

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.

Greater La Porte Chamber, Greater La Porte Economic Development Corp. Teaming Up

Two organizations in La Porte are joining forces. The boards of directors for the Greater La Porte Chamber of Commerce and the Greater La Porte Economic Development Corp. have formed an alliance aimed at aligning the organizations’ overall vision.

The groups say they will continue to operate their functions independently but share staff and workspace to achieve their goals as they represent the business interests of the greater La Porte community. The next step, according to the organizations, is to hold “strategic visioning workshops” to determine their shared vision, new name and brand identity.

Bert Cook will serve as Director of the Alliance.

"Essentially, we want to invigorate and improve what is working well and shed what isn’t," Cook said in a news release. "The best way to do that is to rebuild our organizations in conjunction with each other. It is a tremendous opportunity. Our boards have entrusted us with the challenge of building an innovative center for economic prosperity."

The groups say establishing the alliance will likely create capacity for additional staff resources in key areas, which can be used for programs such as the Chamber’s Workforce Development Task Force and the GLEDC’s prospect development initiatives.

A major staffing announcement related to the alliance is expected next month during the State of the City address. Read more: Inside Indiana Business

Chamber issue: Interstate 81 legislation fuels debate over tolls

The state says critical improvements to Interstate 81 will cost more than $2 billion. And tolls are necessary to raise that kind of money.

Supporters like the Roanoke Regional Chamber of Commerce CEO Joyce Waugh say failing to act will carry a high price as well.

"When it is painful enough then you have to do something," Waugh told WDBJ7, "and what we're seeing are higher fatality rates, higher incident rates. We're seeing such significant delays unlike in any other corridor in the Commonwealth of Virginia."

Local trucking companies such as Lawrence Transportation say they want to see improvements on I-81 as well.

But with the potential tolls on trucks topping 55 dollars, they say they are bearing a burden that everyone should share.

K.T. Treat is Director of Business Development for Lawrence Transportation.

"Our top expense is labor and benefits, second largest expense is fuel, and with this proposal it's going to be our third largest expense for the trucking industry," Treat said in an interview. "That's unfair." Read more: WDBJ

Clarkston Chamber Woman Business Leader of the Year

In honor of the Women in Business event, the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce presents a Woman Business Leader of the Year. This award is dedicated to honor a woman who has shaped the success of her organization/business and demonstrated leadership, professional achievement, and contributed not only to her workplace, but also her community. The essence of this award is to discover and reward exceptional women for their leadership, mentoring skills, and/or ideas that stand out from their colleagues.

The Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the winner for Woman Business Leader of the Year is Mary Hydorn from Kids in Motion Pediatric Therapy Services. Mary founded Kids in Motion 25 years ago after seeing a need for local therapy services for families in her area, including her own family. In those 25 years, the business has expanded to four locations, provides therapists in school districts, and has served thousands of families. Mary is dedicated in providing quality therapy services to children, no matter their abilities, and helping them reach their full potential.

The Chamber will be honoring the recipient on Thursday, February 28th, 2019 from 10:30-1:30pm at Fountains Golf & Banquet during the Women in Business event.

This event will feature four inspiring local business women, a brunch buffet, mimosa bar, and a table decorating sponsor with our sponsors.

We would like to thank our presenting sponsors for this event, Bowman Chevrolet and Nemeth Marketing. Thank you to our hospitality sponsors including LaFontaine Automotive Group, Nuview Nutrition, Rodan + Fields, and St. Joseph Mercy Oakland.

South Suburban Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory

The Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Guide & Business Directory is available at the Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to Barbara Wesener and the Chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

South Suburban Chamber 2018 Community and Visitor Guide

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.

Danville-Boyle County Chamber celebrating 100 years with ‘Birthday Bash’

The Danville-Boyle County Chamber of Commerce is celebrating its 100th anniversary of supporting business in the community during its annual banquet and award presentations on Friday, March 8.

The 100th Birthday Bash will be held at Chowan Hall on Centre College Campus, beginning with a social hour serving hor-d’oeuvres at 5:30 p.m., with music provided by the Heritage Area String Program string quartet and local musician Travis Kern. The dinner menu will feature Kentucky inspired dishes such as Ale-8-One braised brisket and Kenny’s Farmhouse cheese grits. It will be prepared by Sodexo. A dessert social begins at 7:30 p.m., with local jazz singer Michael Hughes entertaining the crowd.

Award winners will be recognized at 8 p.m. Desserts will be provided by Bluegrass and Buttercream, Bluebird Café, Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen and O’Charley’s, as well as a huge birthday cake from Sweets by Cindy.

For the first time this year, a silent auction will be going on throughout the evening, said chamber executive director Jeff Jewel. Money raised will go to the chamber’s Challenge Foundation, which supports the organization’s Youth Entrepreneur, Youth Leadership and Teacher Academy programs, Jewel said.

A few items up for bids are a trip to Gatlinburg, a local getaway at a bed and breakfast with dinner; and a year’s worth of car washes, Jewell said.

Tickets are $75 and include one free drink ticket for wine or beer; there will be a cash bar. Tables can be reserved with the purchase of eight tickets.

The deadline to purchase tickets is Friday, March 1. To purchase tickets, call (859) 236-2361; or visit bit.ly/2TlQ47C.

The following awards will be presented:

• Historically Bold Award, sponsored by Wilderness Trail Distillery

• Community Impact Award, sponsored by Farmers National Bank

• Outstanding Citizen Award, sponsored by State Farm Insurance, Bob Miller

• Outstanding Small Business Award, sponsored by Hampton Inn

• Outstanding Large Business Award, sponsored by Republic Service

• Outstanding Business Person Award, sponsored by Stith Funeral Home

• Outstanding Volunteer Award, sponsored by Central Kentucky Federal Savings Bank

• Rising Star Award, sponsored by Fort Knox Federal Credit Union

• Bruce Montgomery Leadership Alumni Award, sponsored by Inter-County Energy/Touchstone Energy Cooperative

• Director’s Award, sponsored by Johnson Pohlmann Insurance

• Outstanding Ambassador, sponsored by Servpro

Cedarburg Chamber: Congratulations to our Ladies Who Lead award recipients!

On Tuesday, February 19, the Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce hosted a sold-out crowd of over 200 guests at the second annual Ladies Who Lead, presented by U.S. Bank. Sincere thanks to all of our sponsors, to all attendees and speakers, and special congratulations to the five award recipients this year! Save the date for the third annual Ladies Who Lead on Tuesday, February 18, 2020.

Pictured above, from left: Cristy Garcia-Thomas, keynote speaker and Chief External Affairs Officer at Advocate Aurora Health, Ann Denk, retail award; Jennifer Mantooth, professional services award; Connie Niebauer, legacy award; Donna Taylor, restaurant/hospitality award; BJ Homayouni, non-profit award; Lenore Sprague, Vice President, Business Banking, U.S. Bank, Maggie Dobson, Cedarburg Chamber Executive Director, & Craig Shanks, Branch Manager, U.S. Bank - Cedarburg.

Picayune Chamber event: Opportunity Zone more than likely won’t be moved

Community members and business leaders in Picayune heard from a representative of the Mississippi Development Authority during an event held this week by the Greater Picayune Area Chamber of Commerce.

Jamie Miller, deputy director of MDA, updated attendees on a program called Opportunity Zone and gave new information about the availability of BP settlement funding.

The biggest topic for local business owners was the creation of an opportunity zone in the city of Picayune. Miller said the zones were created as part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, and Mississippi was the first to create zones upon passage of the Act. Miller said 18 were created within Mississippi. Business owners can utilize the Opportunity Zone to get relief from taxes by making investments within the Opportunity Zone.

Picayune’s Opportunity Zone primarily falls in residential areas, and none of it is in the city’s Industrial Park, which appeared to be a point of contention for those in attendance during Wednesday’s presentation.

Questions as to whether the Opportunity Zone could be moved to include the Industrial Park were posed. Miller said that while technically the zone could be moved, it would require action from Congress, which he felt was unlikely.

The maps were created using census data focusing on areas with the highest poverty rate. According to MDA’s website, areas “with a poverty rate of 20 percent or greater and/or family income less than 80 percent of the area median income, were eligible for consideration.”

In relation to the BP funding, Miller said the $750 million settlement from the company will be doled out in payments until about 2033. The first payment of $160 million was made in 2016, and all but $27 million has been spent on projects to improve roads, bridges and other infrastructure.

For the next 14 years, the state will receive $30 million per year, of which 25 percent will be used for projects across the entire state, and 75 percent will be allocated for projects in the lower six counties, including Pearl River. Read more: Picayune Item

Events Manager - Arlington Chamber of Commerce - Arlington, VA

he Events Manager is responsible for the planning and execution of all Chamber events and programs. The successful candidate will have the ability to manage multiple events at a time; will develop and implement plans to meet event goals with respect to budget, attendance and overall impact; will be a resource to the membership as well as the staff; and will be a very important part of the team, assisting the organization to meet its overall goals.

Key Responsibilities Include:

Plan and execute all aspects of Chamber events, including monthly networking events and meetings, educational programs, and large scale events such as the Annual Gala and Silent Auction and various awards ceremonies drawing crowds of 150 – 350 high profile attendees.
Responsible for event preparation including budgeting, site selection, contract negotiation and execution, A/V coordination, overseeing award selection committees, agenda and script creation as well as event execution.
Edit all newsletters, event invitations, event signs, event programs and press releases.
Supervise Part-Time Events Associate

What we are looking for:

Our next staff member will have excellent communications skills as well as a keen attention to detail and a professional demeanor. He/she will be a self-starter who will be able to simultaneously execute and complete multiple projects with competing deadlines. Bachelor’s Degree and proficiency in Microsoft Office required. Previous experience planning and executing large scale, revenue generating events is highly preferred. This candidate must be a team player; flourish in a fast-paced and often challenging but enjoyable environment.

Please submit resume with cover letter with salary history and/or salary expectations via e-mail to presidentarlingtonchamber.org. Due to volume, all responses may not be acknowledged. No phone calls, please.

Job Type: Full-time

Experience:

Event Management: 2 years (Required)

More information: Arlington Chamber

Marketing & Communications Associate
Northern Virginia Chamber of Commerce - Tysons, VA

Position responsibilities include:

Design and implement email marketing communications (Cvent)
Manage and edit the Chamber’s website (Weblink)
Manage the Chamber’s various social media communities (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn)
Support public relations activities: draft press releases, create media lists, distribute press releases (Meltwater), manage press tracking
Partner with other departments to identify and fulfill marketing and communications needs
Assist with and report on digital and traditional media tracking and reporting
Assist with design and production of visual marketing materials
Write copy for communications and marketing materials
Attend and photograph all Northern Virginia Chamber events
Provide administrative support to Director, Marketing & Communications
Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements:

2-3 years of professional experience in communications and/or marketing required
Excellent organizational skills and precise attention to details
Ability to manage time effectively and work in a deadline driven schedule
Self-motivated, with the ability to multi-task, and work independently, as well as a part of a team, in a fast-paced environment
Effectively problem-solve anticipated and immediate challenges
Experience working on medium to large size projects from conception to completion.
Ability to maintain a professional appearance and attitude, even when under pressure
Solid grasp of social, digital, word-of-mouth marketing, personal and professional experience across the digital and social space, and knowledge of emerging trends and technologies
Basic to intermediate knowledge of graphic design software (Adobe Creative Cloud) for design and production of marketing collateral and advertisements preferred
Experience with email marketing platforms
Experience managing and editing a website using a content management system (CMS)
Experience with digital measurement and evaluation tools (such as Google Analytics) and basic knowledge of html a plus
Experience and knowledge of branding and brand management
Ability to engage and interact professionally with members in a formal business atmosphere.
Experience with a membership organization a plus
A bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications, preferred

Benefits:

Competitive salary based on experience
401k plan with employer matching
Health care plan including dental and vision coverage
Life insurance, disability insurance
Paid holiday and vacation schedule
Complimentary garage parking

Job Type: Full-time

Experience:

Communications: 1 year (Preferred)
Marketing: 1 year (Preferred)

More information: Northern Virginia Chamber

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

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

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

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

Monday, March 4, 2019

#ChamberCollaboration: Greater Reston, Dulles Regional, Loudoun County, Greater McLean, Tysons Regional Chamber and Partners to Host Legislative Update; Collaborative Effort Aims to Establish Shared Vision for Flint & Genesee’s Economic Vitality; Lake Zurich Chamber of Commerce Community Guide & Membership Directory; #Lovemychamber: Marion Chamber of Commerce: Sister City: Kumihimo Braiding Workshop; Kentucky Hall of Fame: Who Inspires You? 2019 Call for Nominations; Your Future LIVE Career Expo to Provide Students with Interactive Career Exploration; Chamber hosting IOSHA/INSafe program; Wyoming-Kentwood (MI) Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Map; Location, Location, Location: East Mississippi the ideal place to do business; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.

Happy Monday #ChamberWorld! It's going to be a GREAT week!

#ChamberCollaboration: Greater Reston, Dulles Regional, Loudoun County, Greater McLean, Tysons Regional Chamber and Partners to Host Legislative Update

Dr. Stephen Farnsworth, Speaker Kirk Cox and Minority Leader Eileen Filler-Corn to Speak on Business in Virginia

Reston, VA – The Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, along with regional business partners, is proud to announce Dr. Stephen Farnsworth, Speaker Kirk Cox and Minority Leader Eileen Filler-Corn will be speaking on the upcoming elections in November, the cascading scandals in the executive branch and numerous other issues including redistricting, minimum wage, economic development, and transportation that will effect local businesses both large and small.

Dr. Farnsworth, Professor of Political Science and International Affairs at University of Mary Washington, is looking forward to leading a lively discussion. "Virginia politics is always interesting but the 2019 session and the upcoming legislative elections, may make this year one of the most interesting in decades." Says Farnsworth

Scheduled for Wednesday, March 13th, 2019 from 8 a.m.-10 a.m. at the Hyatt Regency, this event is being held in partnership with the Dulles Regional, Loudoun, Greater McLean, and Tysons Regional chambers of commerce, and the Northern Virginia Technology Council.

“This collaborative regional event will provide business owners and representatives the opportunity to hear first hand from House Leadership and a respected political analyst. They will opine on how the community will be impacted by the passed bills and the actions of the Executive Branch and the Legislature.” says Mark Ingrao, President and CEO of the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce.

Tickets for this debate may be purchased online at RestonChamber.org. A breakfast buffet will be served prior to the debate.

Collaborative Effort Aims to Establish Shared Vision for Flint & Genesee’s Economic Vitality

Forward Together – an ambitious process to establish a shared vision for Flint and Genesee County’s future – kicked-off on Feb. 19, with the first convening of the 24-member Steering Committee. The process is backed through a unique partnership between the City of Flint, Genesee County and the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce.

The Steering Committee will guide the process and is made up of individuals representing a diverse set of professions, businesses and organizations from across the County. This group is expected to meet several times throughout the eight-month planning process and will work closely with the planning team to share insights and perspective that will contribute to the final plan.

“Several challenges have hindered the County’s positive momentum, but a lot can be accomplished when we work together to move the community forward; and the Chamber is excited to be a part of this ambitious process,” said Tim Herman, CEO of the Flint & Genesee Chamber.

The collaborating entities – including the City of Flint, Genesee County and the Flint & Genesee Chamber – initiated the process to create a county-wide vision for economic vitality. The process will be facilitated with the support of a consulting team including Planning NEXT of Columbus, Ohio and Ninigret Partners of Providence, Rhode Island.

This effort is intended to establish a common vision for guiding the County forward and will focus on promoting systematic and long-term change in such a way that existing institutions – including government, civic groups, non-profits, etc. – can be more responsive to the community’s needs and aspirations.

“With our challenges and potential in mind, now is an important time for county-wide collaboration to address economic concerns and build upon our assets,” said Flint Mayor Karen Weaver.

Ted Henry, chair of Genesee County Board of Commissioners said, “The most important element of the Economic Vitality Plan is the development of a community-owned vision that will begin to guide our economic development efforts ensuring that our future is not left to chance.”

During its first session, the Steering Committee committed to an open process and will invite the public to contribute their ideas and feedback. The Committee emphasized the need for the county-wide vision to represent the voice of the full community.

To ensure these voices are heard, two public engagement sessions will be facilitated during the process. The first of these workshops will focus on defining the community’s vision for economic prosperity. The planning team will use this valuable feedback to craft a draft plan that will then be tested through additional engagement activities. The input will serve as the foundation for the community’s vision statement, contribute to the plan’s goals, inspire actions and set the course for implementation.

The plan is set to be completed in the third quarter of 2019. To learn more, visit forwardtogethergenesee.org.

Lake Zurich Chamber of Commerce Community Guide & Membership Directory

The Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Guide & Business Directory is available at the Lake Zurich Area Chamber today! Thanks to Dale Perrin and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Guide and Business Directory

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

#Lovemychamber: Marion Chamber of Commerce: Sister City: Kumihimo Braiding Workshop

You are invited to attend...

Sister City: Kumihimo Braiding Workshop
Thursday, March 7
05:30 PM - 07:00 PM
Marion Chamber of Commerce
1527 Champions Dr
Marion, IL 62959
UNITED STATES

As part of the 2019 Sister City visit, we will be hosting activities that center around Japanese culture. The first event will be a workshop on Kumihimo braiding, a Japanese braiding technique for jewelry making.

Join us for a fun evening of bracelet making with Elaine Ketring on Thursday, March 7, 2019 from 5:30pm – 7:30pm.

A fee of $5.00 will cover the cost of materials for one bracelet.

The class is limited, so hurry and sign up today!

Click Here to Register

Kentucky Hall of Fame: Who Inspires You? 2019 Call for Nominations

Kentucky Entrepreneur Hall of Fame Nomination Form

If you know of a Kentucky entrepreneur that you feel deserves to be recognized please nominate them here. Keep in mind that the criteria for induction are (in order of importance):
- Revenue & profit achieved
- Employment generation
- Contribution to industry
- Contributions to community-oriented projects and society
- Innovation of product or serviceNominations are open for the 2019 class until May 10th, 2019.

Are you nominating this person as an 'up and coming' entrepreneur or for the hall of fame? *

For an idea of the level of achievement necessary to be inducted into the hall of fame, please note the bios of the previous inductees.

Hall of Fame

Emerging Entrepreneur (up and coming)

Go to nomination form: Kentucky Hall of Fame Nomination Form

Your Future LIVE Career Expo to Provide Students with Interactive Career Exploration

The Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual career expo, Your Future LIVE, at the Fox Cities Exhibition Center in downtown Appleton to provide area students with an interactive program to explore careers available in the Fox Cities and beyond.

The 13-year event, now in its second year as an expanded two-day event, allows middle and high school students from 25 schools within 14 districts to interact with over 80 Fox Cities area businesses.

On the first day of the event, Wednesday, March 6, 8^th grade students from area middle schools will visit career zones encompassing organizations from similarly grouped career clusters based on knowledge and skills needed to succeed in a particular area. Businesses will engage in conversation about their careers and career pathways, providing one-of-a-kind awareness and career exploration.

Day two of Your Future LIVE, Thursday, March 7, will welcome high school students from area schools to experience a conference format that focuses on students making meaningful connections with local employers. Students will learn about career opportunities at area employers such as career exploration (job shadows, informational interviews and business hosted events), career path opportunities (internships and youth apprenticeships) and employment (part-time or direct entry full-time).

"As our region, and the rest of the state, recognizes the need to fill positions in the workplace, we value the opportunity to offer an event that can establish connections between students and businesses,” shared Suzanne Wittman, Director of Talent & K-16 Relations at the Fox Cities Chamber and Fox Cities Regional Partnership. “Your Future LIVE is exactly that, a place for businesses to personally interact with many students from the different school districts within our region."

This event is made possible through the generous support of: Presenting Sponsors – Menasha Corporation, Village of Little Chute and City of Menasha; Kick-off Reception Sponsor – BMO Harris Bank; Zone Sponsors – Kimberly-Clark Corporation, Pieper Electric, Inc., Ascension St. Elizabeth Hospital, NEW Manufacturing Alliance, University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh, Fox Valley and Fond du Lac Centers; Volunteer Sponsor – Faith Technologies, Inc.; and our many supporting sponsors.

Your Future LIVE is scheduled for Wednesday, March 6 from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. and Thursday, March 7 from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. All scheduled events will occur at the Fox Cities Exhibition Center, 355 W. Lawrence Street, Appleton.

Chamber hosting IOSHA/INSafe program

The Greensburg-Decatur County Chamber of Commerce is hosting a lunch and learn program featuring Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Administration (IOSHA) Deputy Commissioner of Labor, Michelle Ellison, and INSafe Deputy Commissioner K.R. Boucher, on Feb. 21.

The program will be held in the gymnasium at Greensburg City Hall, 314 W. Washington Street, and will start at 11:30 a.m. with lunch. Doors will open at 11:15 a.m.

Chamber executive director Jeff Emsweller explained why the Chamber is hosting this upcoming program.

“We try to organize a quarterly program and bring in speakers who can provide information that is important to their company,” he said. “One of the quarterly programs are the directors of Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Administration and INSafe. Among other things, they will be discussing ways to improve workplace safety and health for workers by reducing hazards and exposures in the workplace environment that result in occupational illnesses, injuries and fatalities.”

The cost to attend this event for Greensburg-Decatur County Chamber of Commerce members is $10 and includes lunch. Non-Chamber member price is $12 and also includes lunch.

Both Chamber members and non-members may register online through their company portal on the Chamber website or by emailing execdirector@greensburgchamber.com. The Chamber will invoice the company involved if necessary.

Reservations are due by noon Feb. 19.

Ellison and Boucher will provide important updates and information from IOSHA and INSafe and will be available to answer any questions or entertain any comments attendees may have.

Wyoming-Kentwood (MI) Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Map

The new Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce 2017 Community Map is available at the Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber today! Thanks to Bob O'Callaghan and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Wyoming-Kentwood Area Chamber 2017 Community Map

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

Location, Location, Location: East Mississippi the ideal place to do business

There’s an adage that the three most important things in real estate are location, location, location.

That idea — that where you are can be instrumental to your success — rings true for many companies around East Mississippi.

Some of those businesses were established in Meridian and Lauderdale County decades ago, and have expanded to other parts of the United States, while others started elsewhere before coming to East Mississippi.

On one level, the numbers tell the story. According to the East Mississippi Business Development Corporation, Meridian is located within a day's drive of 55 percent of the U.S. population.

The city is located at the intersection of two major interstates (I-20 and I-59), three US highways (US 11, US 45, and US 80), and two major state highways (Mississippi 19 and Mississippi 39), according to the EMBDC.

On another level, many East Mississippi businesses thrive because of the region’s strong workforce and proximity to training and educational resources.

‘Right in the middle of where we need to be’

Nash, Texas-based BWI Companies, Inc., which distributes lawn, garden and horticulture products, made the move to Marion last summer.

Its Mississippi facility was based in Jackson for 36 years, but the company outgrew that site and needed to move east.

The center in Marion, which covers 90,000 square feet, serves the southern half of Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi, as well as the panhandle of Florida. A facility in Memphis serves the northern halves of those states.

Moving to Marion has benefitted the business, said Billy Key, a division manager with BWI who runs the facility.

“It’s been great,” Key said. “We’re right in the middle of where we need to be. We like being right off the Interstate.”

“The labor pool has been good,” Key added. “People seem to want work.” Read more: Meridian Star

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

Friday, March 1, 2019

Mclean County Chamber delight: With Amazon investment, Rivian 'serious competition' for Tesla, analyst says; #FamousChamber Of Commerce Quotations: (Live & Learn); The Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce Community Guide; Oshkosh Chamber Social Hub - Predictive Analytics: How to Know What Your Customers Want Before They Do; NKY Chamber Women’s Initiative workshop: ‘Know Yourself Before Heading Out to Present Yourself’; Congratulations to the Prince William Chamber of Commerce 2019 Business Award Winners; 5 Star Battle Creek Area Chamber: Glenn Shepard Seminar | Be The Manager Other Managers Envy & Bosses Can't Wait To Reward; Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Profile & Membership Directory; #BestChamber practices: Muncie-Delaware County Chamber: Chamber Testimonials; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best in the U.S.

Happy Friday, #ChamberWorld! Have a GREAT Weekend!

Mclean County Chamber delight: With Amazon investment, Rivian 'serious competition' for Tesla, analyst says

For Normal Mayor Chris Koos, Amazon's investment in Rivian is another sign that the community was right to bet on the electric car start-up.

"It's incredible news for Rivian and for the community," said Koos of an equity investment round of $700 million led by Amazon announced Friday. "It just validates that we all took the right step in the right direction to make this happen, and I'm including Rivian in that."

About two years after local and state officials promised more than $50 million in incentives for the fledgling automaker to take over the former Mitsubishi plant in west Normal, Rivian stands ready to put the finishing touches on the R1T pickup and R1S SUV to be made in Normal, with the R1T out in 2020.

Industry analysts believe Rivian has the potential to become the Tesla of trucks, creating a niche in a highly profitable sector of the auto industry coveted by consumers and automakers alike.

The company, which had previously raised nearly $700 million in funding, gains both additional capital and legitimacy through the partnership, even though it has yet to begin production.

"I'm impressed by the fact it's a significant commitment, and the fact that Amazon is doing it. Amazon recognizing the Rivian organization is of course kudos to Rivian," said Koos. "My question now is, will you be able to go on Amazon and buy a Rivian pickup?"

Adam Jonas, an equity analyst with Morgan Stanley, issued a bullish note on Rivian this week, calling it the "next serious competition" to take market share from Tesla in the electric vehicle segment.

“This investment is an important milestone for Rivian and the shift to sustainable mobility," RJ Scaringe, Rivian founder and CEO, said in a statement on Friday. “Beyond simply eliminating compromises that exist around performance, capability and efficiency, we are working to drive innovation across the entire customer experience."

He added that "delivering on this vision requires the right partners, and we are excited to have Amazon with us on our journey to create products, technology and experiences that reset expectations of what is possible.”

Michelle Krebs, a Detroit-based analyst for Autotrader, said the new partnership with Amazon makes sense for Rivian. Read more: The Pantagraph

#FamousChamber Of Commerce Quotations: (Live & Learn)

"Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever." Mahatma Gandhi

The Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce Community Guide

The Cedarburg Chamber of Commerce Community Guide & Map is available at the chamber today ! Thanks to the Maggie Dobson and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Cedarburg Community Guide

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.

Oshkosh Chamber Social Hub - Predictive Analytics: How to Know What Your Customers Want Before They Do

Feb 19, 2019 - 7:45am - 9:00am

Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce
120 Jackson Street
Oshkosh, WI 549014714

Predictive Analytics: How to Know What Your Customers Want Before They Do
Presented by: Stellar Blue Technologies
Jim Dobinski, Managing Director and Founder
Brett Hildebrandt, Lead Project Strategist
Connor Thompson, Analytic Strategist
We encourage you to bring your laptop or tablet to this free interactive workshop.
Must register. Seating is limited to 20 attendees.

Open registration until Feb 19, 2019
Member Price: $0.00
Non-member Price: $5.00

More information: Oshkosh Chamber

NKY Chamber Women’s Initiative workshop: ‘Know Yourself Before Heading Out to Present Yourself’

One key element of success, whether in professional or personal endeavors, is to be able to sell yourself.

On Wednesday, March 6 from 7:30-9 a.m., the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce Women’s Initiative, sponsored by PNC, will present the next event in its Professional Series: Know Yourself Before Heading Out to Present Yourself, at FIVE Labs – Midwest (4123 Olympic Blvd., Erlanger).

“We’re thrilled to have Lynee Miller as our speaker for the March Professional Series,” said Stacy Cole, Professional Series Committee Chair. “She brings experience and knowledge about how knowing oneself can impact success in life.”

Lynee Miller, Lead Illuminator at Illuminating Insights, will speak to the power of knowing your inner self and your relationships with the world around you. Knowing yourself creates accommodation for a healthy and fulfilling life. There are variations for what a successful person looks like, but if you are looking for consistent success, you should understand the anatomy of a winner.

Miller will describe the competency themes and relationships around attitudes and habits that create a top performer.

“This session will probe into how even slight mindful behavioral transformations can vastly improve our performance,” said Miller.

Registration for the Women’s Initiative Professional Series: Know Yourself Before Heading Out to Present Yourself is $35 for NKY Chamber members, $50 for future NKY Chamber members, and $25 for NKYP Passport holders. Advanced registration is required and available online.

#BestChamber practices: Oxford Lafayette County Chamber: How to Hire Ole Miss College Students

Do you hire current college students? The University of Mississippi Career Center invites you to our Lunch and Learn on Tuesday, March 5th for best practices in recruiting, hiring and developing student talent. The Job Location and Development Program (JLD), a program partially funded by the federal government, helps students obtain off-campus employment in the Oxford area. The department is interested in advertising and promoting your available positions free of charge. Use this link or e-mail office@career.olemiss.edu to register for the event. Call 662) 915-7174 for additional questions.

Congratulations to the Prince William Chamber of Commerce 2019 Business Award Winners

Manassas, VA-The Prince William Chamber of Commerce celebrated passion and excellence in the business community with their annual Business Awards banquet on February 26th at Hylton Performing Arts Center in Manassas. The Freedom Bank, Business Growth Vision Partner, was recognized as the newest Chamber Vision Partner. Rick Davis, Dean of the George Mason University College of Performing Arts & Executive Director of the Hylton Performing Arts Center served as Master of Ceremonies. In addition to the Chamber’s awards, the event also featured awards presented by the Leadership of the Cities of Manassas and Manassas Park and the Prince William County.

And the winners are…

Agnes L. Colgan Community Service Awards

The 2019 Agnes L. Colgan Community Service Awards sponsored by Sentara Northern Virginia Medical Center

These awards are named after the first wife of the late Senator Colgan: Agnes Colgan (deceased). As a mother and grandmother she was known to live by example, compelling family, friends and strangers to reach out to others in need and view the world with an empathetic heart. Mrs. Colgan was an avid volunteer and fundraiser for a wide array of charitable organizations including the American Red Cross, SERVE and Transitional Housing BARN. Each of the winners received an award to display in addition to a check for $1,000.

Health & Human Services: CASA-Court Appointed Special Advocates

Arts & Education: HireGround, Inc.

Charles J. Colgan Visionary Award:

The 2019 Charles J. Colgan Visionary Award sponsored by Vanderpool, Frostick & Nishanian, PC.

Named after the late Virginia Statesman, Senator Charles Colgan, the Visionary Award is meant to be awarded to an individual who has demonstrated extraordinary leadership, including but not limited to their own organization. Just like Senator Colgan, a long-time member of the Chamber with Colgan Air and a Past Chairman of the Board, this individual should be known as an innovator, a great partner, a visionary and an advocate for his or her community and beyond. This is the fourth year in which the award has been presented.

The Honorable Kathleen Seefeldt, Former Chairman Prince William Board of County Supervisors

Business Awards

Innovative Practice or Partnership of the Year: Leadership Prince William & Comcast

The 2019 Innovative Practice or Partnership of the Year Award sponsored by Joint Technology Solutions.

Community Outreach Award: Apple Federal Credit Union and Mr. Handyman

The 2019 Community Outreach Award sponsored by OmniRide.

Hospitality & Tourism Award: MurLarkey Distilled Spirits, LLC

Excellence in Construction or General Contracting: Mike Garcia Construction, Inc.

Tech Company of the Year: Lockheed Martin Rotary & Mission Systems

The 2019 Tech Company of the Year Award sponsored by Aurora Flight Sciences, a Boeing Company

Emerging Business of the Year: Avision Worldwide

The 2019 Emerging Business of the Year Award sponsored by Bennett, Atkinson & Associates, PC.

Excellence in Small Business (1-10 Employees): Loveless Porter Architects, LLC

The 2019 Excellence in Small Business Award sponsored by Merritt Companies

Business Excellence Award (11+ Employees): DuvallWheeler, CPAs

The 2019 Business Excellence Award sponsored by First Virginia Community Bank.

Additional sponsors for the 2019 Prince William Chamber of Commerce Business Awards included: Reception Sponsor Iron Mountain Data Centers; Wine Host Sponsor Whitlock Wealth Management; Program Sponsor Comcast Spotlight; and Community Partner InsideNOVA Prince William.
Contact: Ross Snare email: rsnare@pwchamber.org

5 Star Battle Creek Area Chamber: Glenn Shepard Seminar | Be The Manager Other Managers Envy & Bosses Can't Wait To Reward

The Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce and Glenn Shepard Seminars is providing an opportunity to take part in a special seminar, Be The Manager Other Managers Envy & Bosses Can't Wait To Reward to be offered to members of the Battle Creek Area Chamber of Commerce.

Speaker, Glenn Shepard, will present his seminar on "How to Supervise People and Lead a Team" based on one of his books, How to Manage Problem Employees. The seminar will take place at the WMU Kendall Center, 50 W Jackson St., Battle Creek, MI 49017 on March 5, 2019 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

We are looking for your help in filling the room. Having a good turnout will allow the Chamber to get more nationally known speakers to add Battle Creek to their tour schedule in the future.

For more information, please review the registration form linked below. Tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite linked below. For more information, please contact us at our office at 269.962.4076.

Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Profile & Membership Directory

The Crossroads Regional Chamber of Commerce 2018 Community Profile & Membership Directory is available at the Crossroads Regional Chamber today! Thanks to Sue Reed and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!

Crossroads Regional Chamber Membership Directory

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.

#BestChamber practices: Muncie-Delaware County Chamber: Chamber Testimonials

Ivy Tech is proud to be a longstanding member of the Muncie-Delaware County Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber provides opportunities to collaborate for a better today and tomorrow. As a business, economic, and community development organization, the Chamber is working hard to move our communities forward. And, Ivy Tech is pleased to be a part of such important work!

Andy Bowne, Ed.D., Senior Vice President & COO, Ivy Tech Community College

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