Tuesday, July 21, 2020

Champaign County Chamber: Predicting Chaos: High Impact Weather Risk; #FamousChamber Quotation of the Week (Be committed!) #BestChamber practices: Chamber serving Lexington, Buena Vista and Rockbridge County: The Re-opening Ribbon Cutting; South Suburban Chamber of Commerce 2020 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory; Barrington Chamber: Christmas in July Gift Card Drive for Local Food Pantries; ADP: MASKUPHBURG; Chancellor Blank lays out three-part COVID testing program to be used in the fall; Oshkosh school board adds 2 referendum questions, worth $115 million, to November ballot; Bazaar After Dark night market postponed to next year due to coronavirus pandemic; #BestChamber practices: Skokie Chamber: Multi-Chamber Networking Program (would work virtual, too!); Clarkston Area Chamber: New Economic Recovery Grant Opportunities Announced by Oakland County; Rochester Regional Chamber: Additional small business grants & more: Keeping you informed! Reston Chamber: Business Education Series Workshop; Indianapolis Partners With Indy Chamber and Musical Family Tree For Music Cities Strategy Recovery Program; Indiana Chamber Announces Mentoring Partnership to Help Companies Skill Up Their Workforce, Engage With Employees; NKYP Announces 2020 Next Generation Leader Award Winners; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best Chamber Partner in the USA!

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

Champaign County Chamber: Predicting Chaos: High Impact Weather Risk

Presented by: Dr. Eric Snodgrass, Principal Atmospheric Scientist, Nutrien Ag Solutions

Tuesday, July 28
Beginning at 9:00 a.m.
Virtual Event

The science of weather prediction has evolved rapidly as computing technology has increased and new methods of observing weather with high resolution satellites and Doppler radars has become common place. Accessed to highly detailed weather forecasts is the new normal in the digital age, but how are these forecasts made and how reliable are they? Can we predict high impact events like hail storms, extreme lightning, tornadoes, severe winds, hurricanes, flash floods, and drought? Find out why all of this matters to our local economy and not just agriculture.

On July 28 we welcome Dr. Eric Snodgrass, principal atmospheric scientist for Nutrien Ag Solutions, to talk about weather and the tools we can use to better understand it.

To hear Dr. Snodgrass speak, you would normally have to attend an expensive conference. We are bringing him to you at home. You can enjoy his presentation all while staying safe during COVID-19.

The event will be held virtually; a meeting link will be sent to attendees closer to the event.

Cost to attend:

$19 for members
$29 for non-members

Register Now



#FamousChamber Quotation of the Week (Be committed!) 

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever does. - Margaret Mead




#BestChamber practices: Chamber serving Lexington, Buena Vista and Rockbridge County: The Re-opening Ribbon Cutting

Visit the "Reopen Rockbridge" resource hub on our website for helpful information and tips on safely getting back to business!


South Suburban Chamber of Commerce 2020 Community Resource Guide & Business Directory  

The Muskego Area Chamber of Commerce 2020 Community Guide & Business Directory   is available at the Chamber of Commerce today! Thank you to 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.


Barrington Chamber: Christmas in July Gift Card Drive for Local Food Pantries

Date and Time: Wednesday Jul 1, 2020 Friday Jul 31, 2020

July 1- July 31

Location
BACC Office
190 E. James St.
Barrington, IL 60010

Website
www.BarringtonChamber.com

Register


Please consider helping families in need by donating $10 or more to be used for purchasing grocery gift cards that will be distributed to the Barrington and Cuba Township food pantries. The Chamber will be accepting donations on behalf of the Women's Biz Net Group all month.
Simply click the REGISTER button on this page to make a donation.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT!



Contact Information: Suzanne Corr
Send Email



ADP: MASKUPHBURG

Welcome to MASKUPHBURG.COM!

This website is shared between key business, tourism, health care and government partners throughout the City of Hattiesburg, Forrest County and Lamar County to provide information to citizens about the public health campaign - Mask Up, HBURG.

On this site, you will be able to locate information about face coverings and their impact on slowing the spread of COVID-19, where they are required to be worn, educational content about how to wear them and ways you can also share the "Mask Up, HBURG" messages with your friends and family. 


We are proud to join other organizations in the Pine Belt to help slow the spread of COVID-19. To learn more about how you can also do your part, visit maskuphburg.com.

Chancellor Blank lays out three-part COVID testing program to be used in the fall



UW-Madison will have a three-part testing program in place when students return to campus in the fall, according to Chancellor Rebecca Blank.
Blank told a Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce briefing today the university will first set up free testing sites around campus for anyone in the community to use. Then, it will conduct wide-range surveillance testing in the surrounding community to monitor for potential hotspots or outbreaks, as well as practice targeted testing for students in dorms and athletics.
“We want to be able to tell students that campus is actually a safer place for them than the outside world,” Blank said. “Our goal is to make sure the university stays that safe for the entire semester.”
Targeted tests in dorms and sports facilities will be conducted at least once every two weeks, with immediate containment and quarantine protocols in place in the case of a positive test.
Creating a more inclusive environment
Blank said she did not take the decision to reopen on a hybrid model of instruction lightly, but that it is necessary to have a “properly functioning flow of thought” at the university. She said that much learning on campus happens when peers collaborate, and that online school does “students a disservice” by not offering those opportunities.
Blank also noted the university is looking for ways to become more “welcoming and open” for students of color. 
UW-Madison has already mandated a new “Diversity Framework” course for all incoming students — similar to the GetWIse workshops required for alcohol and drug use — that will “promote shared values of diversity and inclusion” among other issues. The university has also launched a $10 million fundraising campaign that will provide scholarships and financial aid to students and faculty of color. 
“For white people like me there is a window of opportunity now that we have never had before,” Blank said. “White students and faculty need to reflect on our own behaviors and actions every day. If we do not seize this moment to listen, understand and change then shame on us.”
Financial concerns
Blank touched on the UW-System’s financial future due to the pandemic and said short-term cash flow issues may be exacerbated by the possibility of fall sports being cancelled.
“Short-term, we are going to have a few problems,” Blank said. “To make it worse — though I can’t say with certainty — if I had to guess there is under a 50 percent chance sports play in the fall.” Read more: The Daily Cardinal




Oshkosh school board adds 2 referendum questions, worth $115 million, to November ballot

Voters will decide in November whether to allow the school district to extend property tax hikes from previous referendums and add another $107 million.
The school board on Wednesday unanimously approved putting two referendum questions on the November ballot that will ask voters to renew $7.95 million in operating funds they approved in 2014 and 2016 and to approve collecting an additional $107 million to address the district's aging facilities by consolidating schools.
The decision to put two questions on the ballot comes after critics say they are tired of multiple referendums in the past few years.
"We understand there can be referendum fatigue. We heard loud a clear to combine the two and let us come to the poll one time," Superintendent Vickie Cartwright said Thursday during a town hall with Oshkosh Chamber of Commerce members. Read more: Oshkosh Northwestern


Bazaar After Dark night market postponed to next year due to coronavirus pandemic


Organizers are pushing back the Fox Cities Bazaar After Dark to next year due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The event is rescheduled for June 5, 2021 in downtown New London and July 28, 2021 in Neenah, according to the Fox Cities Chamber of Commerce.
Organizers said Wednesday the decision was based on public health guidance athe safety and wellbeing of the estimated 8,000 people who attend the night market each year.
“This was not an easy decision nor one we took lightly,” Fox Cities Chamber President Becky Bartoszek said in a statement. “While we’re disappointed to not be able to celebrate in these communities in 2020, we felt this was the optimal decision for the health and safety of all involved.”

Bazaar After Dark focuses on fostering community collaborations through art, music and common experiences. Organizers said to watch the Bazaar After Dark Facebook page or chamber website for more information on next year’s events.
Read more: Post Crescent



#BestChamber practices: Skokie Chamber: Multi-Chamber Networking Program (would work virtual, too!)


Speed Networking Events offer you a wonderful opportunity to meet many people form other chambers of Commerce in quick succession. But sometimes they can be overwhelming. In order for these events to be successful, for you, follow the rules, follow the script and be concise without going over your three minute limit per person. Thank you and happy networking!

How this works… (6 to 10 People at each table)

1. Each person has a name tag with their table rotation listed.
2. We have tried to separate you so industries are not duplicated at each table, however due to the numbers present at today’s function, please understand if there is an occasional duplication. - Remember in the chamber world, we are all colleagues, not competitors.
3. The moderator will announce each rotation, please proceed to the table number printed on your name tag.
4. Once at your table, assign a time keeper.
5. Each participant will have three minutes to introduce themselves. We have provided a script for your convenience. You do not need a script if it does not reflect the needs of you or your company.
6. The moderator will give a five minute warning before each table rotation.
7. There will be a five minute passing period in between each rotation
8. There will be (X) table rotations for today’s program (Three table rotations would be a good meeting’s worth.)
9. Please feel free to stay at the conclusion of the speed networking program so you can continue to make connections!

Introductions
Your Name
Name of Your Company
What is Your Position With Your Company
What Does Your Company Do…
What makes You or Your Company Unique
You Should Do Business With Me Because…
Chamber Member (X) Recommends Me
A Good Business Lead For Me Is…

More information: Skokie Chamber

Clarkston Area Chamber: New Economic Recovery Grant Opportunities Announced by Oakland County

Yesterday, Oakland County announced that retail stores, restaurants and personal service businesses such as salons and fitness centers impacted by the coronavirus pandemic can apply for part of the $32 million Oakland Together Small Business Recovery Grant fund.

The grants – which range from $2,500-$10,000 – provide an infusion of capital to support payroll expenses, rent, mortgage payments, utility expenses or other similar ones that occur in the ordinary course of business. The funds come from Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act money allocated to Oakland County by the federal government.

The full press release from Oakland County can be read here. Further details and an application can be found at the Oakland Together Small Business Recovery Grant web page.

As always, we encourage you to stay in touch with the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce via our website, social media or reach us directly at (248) 625-8055.

Rochester Regional Chamber: Additional small business grants & more: Keeping you informed!


Keeping you informed! Here at the Rochester Regional Chamber we are working hard to stay on top of news and information that can assist you in navigating these difficult times. Below find information about two additional grant programs available for small businesses as well as a webinar we will be conducting with the SBA "Answers to PPP & SBA EIDL Loan Forgiveness"

Oakland Together Small Business Recovery Grant

· For businesses with 100 or fewer full or part-time employees

· Applications will be reviewed and determinations will be made periodically throughout, and following, the 6-week application period ending on Monday August 24, 2020.

· Nonprofits are not eligible

Oakland County announced last week the dedication of $28-$30 million from the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act Fund to help small businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

If you have experienced any of the following between March 2020 and June 2020 you are eligible to apply.

· A loss of gross receipts or sales
· Operated at a reduced level of production, sales, employment or service
· Have temporarily closed all operations and are now in the process of reopening

This competitive grant program is focused on hard-hit sectors such as:

· retail,
· food and lodging,
· personal services,
· business services,
· entertainment and recreation and
· construction and maintenance services.

Oakland Together Small Business Recovery Grant Info/Application

Michigan Small Business Restart Program Grant

· For businesses and nonprofits with 50 or fewer employees

· 30% earmarked for women, minority or veteran-owned eligible businesses.

Through the MEDC (Michigan Economic Development Corporation) the State of Michigan has allocated $100 million of CARES Act funding, of which $11 million is available to Oakland County businesses, to support small businesses negatively impacted by COVID-19.

Businesses can apply for grants up to $20,000 and applications are due by August 5. Awardees will be announced no later than September 30.

Michigan Small Business Restart Program Grant Info/Application

WEBINAR

Answers to PPP & SBA EIDL Loan Forgiveness

Join the SBA Michigan District Office to get all your questions answered regarding the PPP (Paycheck Protection Program), the EIDL (Economic Injury Disaster Loan) program, SBA Debt Relief programs, and SBA consulting and training resources to help you recover from COVID-19.

Register Here


Reston Chamber: Business Education Series Workshop 

TOMORROW @ 8:30 AM

How to Effectively Network During Covid

Join us tomorrow morning and learn:
· How to engage a “virtual” prospect.
· What to “say” during the conversation.
· The “3-step” transition process and,
· The most effective “follow through” process

This presentation is ideal for Owners/Strategists/Senior Sales Executives Who:
· Want to engage new prospects
· Have a large social media network of “unknown” contacts
· Don’t expect things to “go back” to the “old ways’ and,
· Want the 2nd half of 2020 to be their biggest opportunity.

This session will be refreshing for the expert and a blueprint for the beginner! This system will allow you to “engage” new AND old prospects EVERY week! If WINNING is still at the top of your to-do list

Register Now!

Registration cutoff is 8 AM on Wednesday. 


Indianapolis Partners With Indy Chamber and Musical Family Tree For Music Cities Strategy Recovery Program

The City of Indianapolis, Musical Family Tree and the Indy Chamber partnered to develop the Music Cities Strategy Recovery Program, a grant program dedicated to supporting independent music venues disadvantaged by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Independent music venues are the lifeblood of the music scene, where local musicians learn their trade and build careers. We’re proud to continue our partnership with the City to provide assistance to them when they need it the most.” said Jim Rawlinson, Board Chair of Musical Family Tree in a statement yesterday. “Music venues were the first to close and the last to open. Hopefully these funds will allow them to hang on and reopen responsibly and safely.”

The program will make $125,000 of federal CARES Act funds available to independent music venues located within Marion County. Grant money can be used for costs including monthly rent, mortgage payments and utility payments.
“Indianapolis has some of the finest independent music venues in the country,” said Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett in a statement. “As we safely reopen our economy, we want to make sure that our venues have the resources they need to survive and thrive.”
Musical Family Tree will handle the application process and the distribution of funds for the program.
Independent music venues in Marion County can apply at musicalfamilytree.org/blog by Aug. 7. Read more: WFYI.ORG

Indiana Chamber Announces Mentoring Partnership to Help Companies Skill Up Their Workforce, Engage With Employees

The Indiana Chamber of Commerce is offering a new service to help Hoosier employers skill up their workforce and keep employees further engaged as remote work continues for many.
The organization is partnering with Indiana-based Engage Mentoring to connect employees with mentors to help them grow their skills on a variety of topics. The model uses a proprietary software system to assist employees in career development by forging relationships with qualified mentors throughout the business community as well as acquiring the necessary skillset to become good mentors themselves.
“We believe this company-to-company mentoring program can be an important resource for our members to address the continual call to better attract, retain and develop their talent,” says  Jason Bearce, Indiana Chamber vice president of education and workforce development.
“Beyond that critical mission, employers are now, more than ever, looking for meaningful ways for employee engagement and inclusion. This program can be a powerful strategy to achieve that within their workforce.”
This effort is part of the Indiana Chamber’s Institute for Workforce Excellence resource center.

NKYP Announces 2020 Next Generation Leader Award Winners

Recipients named during virtual celebration Thursday, July 16, 2020

The 2020 Next Generation Leader Award (NGLA) winners have been announced – and the Northern Kentucky Young Professionals (NKYP) are celebrating their achievements as they look towards building the future.

Facebook Live served as the virtual celebratory means by which the NKYP presented the 2020 NGLA Awards, which took place Thursday, July 16, 2020. Designed to salute and applaud young professionals under 40 for significant professional achievements, demonstrated leadership and community impact, the awards recognize talented young leaders and their contributions to the region.

Each of this year’s winners were chosen from a group of nearly 70 applications from across the region. The applications were then reviewed and narrowed down to a group of finalists in six categories based on primary job responsibilities across several industries.

The 2020 winners in each category are:

ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & HOSPITALITY
Kimberly Best, The Carnegie
Justin Otto, North American Properties/Newport on the Levee

EDUCATION
Kevin Reynolds, Thomas More University

MEDICAL & HEALTHCARE SERVICES
Tyler Hudson, Hudson Eye Center

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Sarah Grace Mohr, MACKEY

PUBLIC RELATIONS, ADVERTISING & MARKETING
Mark Collier, Ft. Thomas Matters & Living Media

PUBLIC SERVICE & COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS
Ellen Bates, Brighton Center

In addition to recognizing this year’s NGLA recipients, Candace McGraw – CEO of the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) – was presented with the 2020 NKYP Legend Award. The NKYP Legend Award is given to a community leader that has continued to inspire leadership and career success among young professionals throughout their career. Read more: Northern Kentucky Chamber



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


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

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

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

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

Wednesday, July 15, 2020

Job Opening in Illinois Chamber World: From the desk of Jennifer Olson, President, Carbondale Chamber of Commerce; Job Openings in Wisconsin #ChamberWorld Chief Executive Officer, La Crosse Area; #FamousChamber of Commerce Quotation: Be Happy! ; #BestChamber practices: Student Welcome: Clinton County Chamber; Greater Starkville Development Partnership Virtual Briefing; Lake County Chamber of Commerce Community Guide & Membership Directory; SI community partners loan $1,152,552 to businesses in need during pandemic; Fed Official at Top of Virginia Chamber meeting: Economic recovery trending up, but still plenty of uncertainty; Portage County Business Council Inc. Sunrise Point Industrial Revitalization Project--Celebration Invite; #BestChamber practices: Carol Stream Chamber: Ready, set, go: Reinventing the organization for speed in the post-COVID-19 era; New housing projects, trails coming to St. Joseph County; The Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce Community Map; Indiana Chamber Announces Mentoring Partnership to Help Companies Skill Up Their Workforce, Engage With Employees; Rochester Regional Chamber: Michigan Mask Requirements: Understanding Executive Order 2020-147; Governor announces executive order mandating masks for Kentuckians; Midland Business Alliance: Virtual Networking is the Name of the Game; 10th Congressional District Candidate Debate hosted by Blue Water Area Chamber & Macomb Chamber; Daviess County Coalition Aims to Boost Economic Recovery; Town Square Publications Chamber Membership Directories and Community Profiles: The best Chamber Partner in the USA!

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


Job Opening in Illinois Chamber World: From the desk of Jennifer Olson, President, Carbondale Chamber of Commerce


Good morning, Members of the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce,

I am here at my desk in the Old Train Depot, wrapping up loose ends. After the fast-paced two-plus years, my time at the Chamber is coming to a close. I have accepted a position as the Economic Development Director for the Greater Egypt Regional Planning & Development Commission. I was not out actively searching, but this opportunity is a great one. This move allows me to continue to work to better southern Illinois, but in a more extensive five-county footprint.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Carbondale Chamber of Commerce. It is a wonderful organization full of hard-working member businesses. I wish you all much continued success.

My first day on the job at Greater Egypt is Monday, July 27. If you know of someone who would be a good fit for the President / CEO job at the Chamber, please let me, LeAnne, or a Board Member know.

Many thanks for all your support,

Jennifer

Chamber point of contact:
LeAnne Gaydos
(618) 549-2146


Charlie Hatten sees more good works after retiring from New Haven Chamber Aug. 1

Doing good things for people has always been high on Charlie Hatten’s list of things to do. And that won’t change when he retires Aug. 1 from the New Haven Chamber of Commerce where he’s been president/CEO for seven years.
Hatten has been contemplating retiring for a couple of years. “There are a lot of things I’d like to do, but our family didn’t get the longevity gene, so I figure I’ve got eight to 10 years of good health left that I want to put to good use,” he said.
“One group that I’ll be heavily involved with is the St. Vincent DePaul Society,” he continued. “I volunteer in their warehouse, and over the years, my wife, Teresa, and I have delivered food and done family assessments for them. I expect to spend a lot of time with them. I really love that group.”
But first he’s going to take August off as his discernment month to talk with some people whose thoughts and insights he values and meet with his priest at St. Vincent DePaul Catholic Church to learn what God has in mind for the rest of his life. “There’s a big difference between what God has in mind for me and what I think I want. After doing that, I hope I’ll have figured out what I should be doing,” he said. 
“Of course there are five grandchildren and four great-grandchildren that I plan to spend a lot more time with. They’re all biracial and are struggling with all the things that are going on now. I want to be there to help mentor them.”
Since returning from service in the U.S. Air Force in 1976, Hatten has been involved in working with the needy and disadvantaged. His first job after earning degrees in business and computers at IPFW was at fuel system manufacturer Tokheim where he worked 23 years and before coming to the New Haven Chamber he worked closely with the Veterans Administration as director of federal business development at Briljent. He also served as a volunteer chaplain at the Allen County Jail and taught life skills classes to inmates.
He and his wife have been active in Associated Churches of Fort Wayne and Allen County, where she founded the A Baby’s Closet program and he organized the Military Families Program to aid families of deployed service members. “When I was chairman of the board during the organization’s jubilee year we raised $55,000 to build a Habitat for Humanity home off Pontiac Street,” he said. “Another of my passions is raising money for food banks.” Read more: Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly


Job Openings in Wisconsin #ChamberWorld


Chief Executive Officer, La Crosse Area Chamber, La Crosse, WI 

ABOUT US
Founded in 1868, the La Crosse Area Chamber serves more than 500 business and individual members through educational programming, seminars, networking events, promotion s, and ad vocacy. The Chamber is lead by an active Board of Directors, and continually strives to meet its goal to connect, grow and advocate for area businesses.
OUR VISION
Through business leadership, La Crosse County will economically prosper and be a great place to work, live and play.
WE CONNECT
Businesses of all sizes to each other and the community through events and advertising
WE GROW
Businesses and their leaders through leadership programs and specialized offers.
WE ADVOCATE
For a prosperous economic climate for business locally, regionally, and nationally.
WE CELEBRATE
The impact, influence, and vision of business leaders over the Cha mber' s 150+ year history.
The La Crosse Area Chamber is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Chamber operates under a Chief Executive Officer - Strong Executive Model.
Together, the CEO and Board will define the mission and vision and together, we will establish a long -term strategic plan. The CEO drives the strategic plan by creating an annual work plan of actions that support the achievement of the long-range goals. This is defined as a high-level work plan that includes programs, goals, metrics with a budget and timeline tied to it. This plan will be shared with the Board on an annual basis and will be used to track results throughout the year.
The CEO should use the Board as a sounding board as needed. The Board will provide experience and knowledge to supplement the CEO and his/her staff knowledge. The CEO will collaborate with our Synergy Partners (our City and Community leaders and organizations) to leverage Board and Chamber members skills to execute special projects, committees, and events.
The CEO is the official spokesperson for the Chamber of Commerce.
QUALIFICATIONS
The CEO will be a proven executive with focus on relationship management, accountability for results and a passion for businesses. The successful CEO must possess a bachelor's degree in a professional discipline relevant to providing executive leadership for an organization. Successful work experience in a sales, business development, goal-oriented environment very helpful. A minimum of ten years in a leadership role is required - servant leadership style. Prior experience managing and motivating a team required.
Experience in the not-for-profit realm is helpful. Previous experience working with multiple levels of leadership is required.
Ability to project a strong professional presence in appearance, actions, and personal demeanor in representing the Chamber is required.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Progressively more responsible leadership roles in mission-driven organizations
Financially savvy and politically astute leader with the ability to set clear priorities, delegate, and guide investment in people and systems; keen analytic, organization and problem-solving skills, which support and enable sound decision making and problem solving.
Excellent coalition building skills with an ability to communicate and work effectively with a variety of internal and external stakeholders; a persuasive negotiator able to achieve consensus amongst diffe ring opinions.
Commitment to the professional development of staff; successful track record of recruiting and retaining a diverse team.
Broad-based functional experience including marketing, communications, and financial management.
PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL TRAITS
Be a servant leader.
Extraordinary relationship-building talents.
Professional presence in appearance, actions, and personal demeanor.
High level of integrity.
Strong organizational skills resulting in the ability to prioritize multip le projects.
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
CEO RESPONSIBILIES AND EXPECTATIONS
Develop and implement plans and strategies that enhance the economic profile of the community for its businesses.Understand the needs of our member base to retain current members and successfully recruit new members to grow the membership base.
Report to the Board on a quarterly basis the status of achieving annual strategic goals.
Bring new ideas to the Board. Be a visionary.
Ensure member issues are anticipated and resolved.
Create and build awareness of our role in the community.
Establish collaborative and strong relationships with business and community leaders by understanding their needs.
Develop and maintain a visible leadership role by regularly attending community events and networking within the community .
Be a resource to all Chamber chairs and Synergy partners by maintaining regular communication.
Engage in community dialogue to understand public perceptions and business needs.
Work with the Finance Committee to establish fiscal policies and procedures to develop annual operating budgets and plan for the overall financial health of the organization.
Oversee marketing strategies that directly meet sales goals for the organization and indirectly enhance the Chamber's brand.
Oversee operational planning that ensures programs and services are delivered in a timely, on-budget fashion.
Oversee the Chamber Foundation to maximize its nonprofit tax status and education center lease in the Chamber building.
Oversee the Chamber's assets including investments, equipment, office, building, tenants, and vendors, ensuring they operate efficiently and to budget.
Work with staff to develop personal goals that support the mission and annual business plan goals. Must be able to lead, develop and evaluate staff.
Manage and motivate the staff to do great things for the business community .
Develop and utilize an annual Board operating calendar, which would include board meetings, planning milestones including budget, reviews, officer selection, chair appointments, major programs, events, planning and budgeting cycles, etc. to ensure a high level of communication.
Continue to strive to be knowledgeable of best practices, industry trends through personal and professional development.
Interested candidates please submit a letter of interest and resume. Applications will be accepted until August 1, 2020, or until the position is filled.
Job Type: Full-time
Schedule:
  • Monday to Friday
Experience:
  • Leadership: 10 years (Required)
Education:
  • Bachelor's (Required)
Work Location:
  • One location
Company's website:
  • lacrossechamber.com
Work Remotely:

  • No


#FamousChamber of Commerce Quotation: Be Happy! 


"What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." Ralph Waldo Emerson




#BestChamber practices: Student Welcome: Clinton Chamber


Clinton Businesses—

In anticipation of the return of students to the Mississippi College campus, Main Street Clinton and the Clinton Chamber met with Jonathan Nutt, MC Director of Student Engagement, to discuss the annual Back to the Bricks welcome week event.

Unfortunately, the university has decided to suspend all off campus events as part of their efforts to address the pandemic. They have offered to work with us on some creative ways to be involved in Welcome Week to promote all that our community and businesses have to offer.

Following are ways that you can participate:

·     Businesses can film a 15-30 second “Welcome to Clinton” video which will be shared on social media dedicated to MC Welcome Week.
·     MC will give away door prizes, donated by our Clinton businesses, throughout the week.
·     MC will distribute a coupon book to the new students.
·     Business can put out Welcome Back MC Students signs.

Like everything else in 2020, our welcome will look different this year. Let’s kick it up a notch and roll-out the red carpet to show the students and their families that we are glad they have chosen to come to Mississippi College and Clinton.

Complete your application today! Deadline for applications are TODAY, FRIDAY, JULY 10, 2020!
This is a great advertising opportunity!


This event is FREE to Clinton Chamber and Main Street Clinton members. Welcome sign payments can be made via check or online.



Greater Starkville Development Partnership Virtual Briefing 


Dear Partnership Members,

Please join the Memphis Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis for a virtual briefing focused on economic challenges during turbulent times. 
Two St. Louis Fed economists will give overviews of economic conditions:
·         Kevin Kliesen, business economist and a Research officer
·         Charles Gascon, a regional economst and a senior coordinator in the Research Division
The program also will include a welcome from Douglas Scarboro , senior vice president and regional executive of the Memphis Branch, and a Q&A session following the presentations.
The Memphis Branch of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis serves northern Mississippi, including Starkville, along with western Tennessee and eastern Arkansas.
The briefing will be of particular interest to business leaders, academics, community development practitioners and others interested in economic conditions.
There is no cost to participate, but registration is required. Please click here to register by Aug. 10. You'll receive a confirmation email upon registering, followed by detailed login instructions as the event date nears.
Questions? Contact Joann Harris of the Memphis Branch at Joann.Harris@stls.frb.org or 901-569-2663.

Thanks so much and have a great weekend.
 
My Best,
Hunter Harrington
Director of Membership Development
200 East Main Street | Starkville, MS | 39759
Phone (662) 323-3322 | Fax (662) 323-5815
starkville.org


Lake County Chamber of Commerce Community Guide & Membership Directory

The Lake County Chamber of Commerce Community Guide & Membership Directory is available at the Lake County Chamber! Thanks to Shaunese Teamer 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.





SI community partners loan $1,152,552 to businesses in need during pandemic


It has been three months since Gov. Eric Holcomb announced an executive “Stay at Home” order for the citizens of Indiana.
Since that time, small businesses throughout the state have struggled to stay afloat during the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent economic downturn.
Recognizing the need for direct assistance to small businesses, One Southern Indiana (1si), the chamber of commerce and economic development organization for Clark and Floyd counties, along with the Caesars Foundation of Floyd County and the Community Foundation of Southern Indiana, joined together to raise funds to assist.
Response was overwhelming, with funding coming from the three initial partners as well as the BlueSky Foundation, Metro United Way, the Clark and Floyd County Commissioners, the Cities of Jeffersonville and New Albany and the Towns of Clarksville and Sellersburg. Funding was also received from private individuals who wish to remain anonymous.
There were three loan products offered with the funds raised. The first, the COVID-19 Small Business Emergency Forgivable Loan Fund, approved 44 loans for a total of $419,257, which was dispersed to approved applicants within one week. Of that amount, $199,000 was loaned to Clark County businesses and $220,257 to businesses in Floyd County.
Donum Dei Brewery was one of the recipients of this program.
“Donum Dei would like to thank Jerry Finn and the Caesars Foundation of Floyd County, One Southern Indiana and all of the other organizations that contributed to the COVID-19 Small Business Emergency Forgivable Loan.,” said owner Richard Otey.
“This loan will allow us to stay open and maintain our staffing at current levels. It will also give us the opportunity to replenish our raw materials that have been depleted by making hand sanitizer for the community.”
The second loan product, called the Community and Cultural Relief Loan Program, was a zero-interest revolving loan program. From that fund, a total of 44 businesses received $561,295, with $175,946 loaned to Clark County businesses and $385,349 loaned to Floyd County businesses.
Ross Wallace, owner of New Albany’s Him Gentleman’s Boutique, received a loan from this program.
“This loan means so much to me! Thank you, Caesars Foundation, for this amazing opportunity. After Him Gentleman’s Boutique being closed for almost two months and Derby being postponed, the business saw a significant loss of revenue,” he said.
The “Jeffersonville Sustains” Forgivable Loan Program was the third loan product, providing 35 businesses with $172,000 in direct assistance. All recipients of this program were located within the city limits of Jeffersonville.
Phillip and Stefanie Caldwell, owners of Hoopsters Sports Grill, were recipients of this loan.
“We are grateful to live in an amazing community, that during this trying time in our country, steps up and helps their small businesses be able to keep their doors open. The money that has been loaned to us will help us pay our utilities, mortgage and keep buying supplies. We will continue to pay the generosity forward,” the Caldwells said.
Wendy Dant Chesser, president and CEO of 1si, was pleased with the efficiency and results of the program.

“We took on this challenge knowing that every business needed help, and we would not be able to assist them all. But everyone in Southern Indiana can be proud of this effort in our collective time of need,” Chesser said.

Fed Official at Top of Virginia Chamber meeting: Economic recovery trending up, but still plenty of uncertainty

As questions continue about the economic outlook during the coronavirus pandemic, Tom Barkin, president and CEO of the Richmond branch of the Federal Reserve, gave his views on where things stand.
Speaking Tuesday from the Shenandoah Valley Golf Club on a Zoom conference call hosted by the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber, Barkin said he thinks there are four phases of the pandemic — shutdown, reopening, normalization and full recovery.
"We are now in the reopening phase," he said.
Following the “unprecedented” shutdown phase, Barkin said the national May unemployment rate of slightly more than 13% was “higher than it’s ever been in almost anyone’s lifetime that you’ll talk to.” He said that in 1982 the jobless rate reached 10.8%, which was the previous high since the Great Depression.
On top of that, he said another 2% have left jobs and decided not to return. Another 3% have reported they are employed but are not getting an income, which accounts for furloughs.

“The real unemployment numbers are in the high teens,” said Barkin, who oversees the Fifth District of the Federal Reserve that includes Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, the Carolinas and Washington, D.C. “If you look at the initial unemployment claims data, it’s come down from its peak but it’s still double what it was in any point in our history. I think you have to say unemployment is high and the recovery of unemployment is low.” Read more: The Winchester Star


Portage County Business Council Inc. Sunrise Point Industrial Revitalization Project--Celebration Invite

You are invited to a ribbon-cutting and community celebration on Wed., July 22; 11:30 am-1:00 pm; 5001 Joerns Drive; Stevens Point. (My apologies if you have received more than one of these invitations.)

The Sunrise Point Industrial Revitalization Project celebrates Wayne Bushman and Sunrise Point Ventures commitment to central Wisconsin. This commitment is being done through a renovation of the Joerns building for future occupancy by Gamber Johnson and a donation of land to Mid-State Technical College to build an Advanced Manufacturing, Engineering Technology and Apprenticeship Center.

NOTE: CDC guidelines will be followed for the event.

Todd Kuckkahn
Executive Director
Portage County Business Council, Inc.



#BestChamber practices: Carol Stream Chamber: Ready, set, go: Reinventing the organization for speed in the post-COVID-19 era

The need for speed has never been greater. Here are nine ways companies can get faster.

When the coronavirus pandemic erupted, companies had to change. Many business-as-usual approaches to serving customers, working with suppliers, and collaborating with colleagues—or just getting anything done—would have failed. They had to increase the speed of decision making, while improving productivity, using technology and data in new ways, and accelerating the scope and scale of innovation. And it worked.

Read More


New housing projects, trails coming to St. Joseph County

St. Joseph County, it is one of the main driving forces for revenue in Northern Indiana, but since the pandemic, the local economy has taken a huge hit, one officials are calling the biggest one yet.
“It’s the biggest economical crisis to hit our area in many, many years,” South Bend Chamber of Commerce CEO Jeff Rea says.
That’s why the St. Joseph County Redevelopment Commission says they plan to give the green light on more redevelopment projects to help boost an economy that has been quickly broken down.
“I think we are just trying to find ways to find out piece of the puzzle to help job growth and population growth,” Director of Economic Development William Schalliol says.

Some of those projects include a proposed 76-acre, 500-home housing project in Granger. Other plans look to help expand struggling businesses. In addition, Schalliol says the county is looking to expand on current bike trails, walking paths, and green spaces, while also adding new trails just north of Notre Dame.
“Everybody spent a good two-three months in their basements or their house living, working from home, doing things like that. What people found is that they’d like to be able to get outside. They’d like to be able to social distance outside. They like to be able to go on walking trails and paths,” Schalliol says.
Paths that, not only lead to new places, but to new jobs and much needed revenue the county calls for.
“We obviously want to go grow the number of jobs, and we want to see production happen. We want to raise the wages of those jobs and that can’t happen if we don’t have some parcels available and ready for development,” Rea says. Read more: WNDU


The Valparaiso Chamber of Commerce Community Map

The Valparaiso Chamber Community Map is now available at the Valpo Chamber today! Thanks to Rex Richards, Danielle Oeding and Kurt Gillins and the chamber team for their help and direction putting this together!











Valparaiso Chamber 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. 


Indiana Chamber Announces Mentoring Partnership to Help Companies Skill Up Their Workforce, Engage With Employees


The Indiana Chamber of Commerce is offering a new service to help Hoosier employers skill up their workforce and keep employees further engaged as remote work continues for many.

The organization is partnering with Indiana-based Engage Mentoring to connect employees with mentors to help them grow their skills on a variety of topics. The model uses a proprietary software system to assist employees in career development by forging relationships with qualified mentors throughout the business community as well as acquiring the necessary skillset to become good mentors themselves.

“We believe this company-to-company mentoring program can be an important resource for our members to address the continual call to better attract, retain and develop their talent,” says Jason Bearce, Indiana Chamber vice president of education and workforce development.

“Beyond that critical mission, employers are now, more than ever, looking for meaningful ways for employee engagement and inclusion. This program can be a powerful strategy to achieve that within their workforce.”

This effort is part of the Indiana Chamber’s Institute for Workforce Excellence resource center.

Through the partnership, the Indiana Chamber is able to offer the Engage Mentoring model to its member businesses at a discounted rate. The actual cost is based on the number of employees.

Don Cates, CEO of 3Rivers Federal Credit Union in Fort Wayne, has already utilized the program.

“What I enjoy most is the opportunity it provides our team to mentor and be mentored by a broad and diverse group beyond your organization. It expands our experience, knowledge and influence that supports our culture and brand. Personally, I enjoy mentoring because of what I continue to learn in the process, and what I remember I should be doing in leading my leadership team.”

Today’s announcement follows the Indiana Chamber’s June release of the Indiana Vision 2025: 2020 Snapshot, which showed Indiana still ranks 38th among the 50 states for post-secondary credential attainment. This mentoring program marks another effort to improve that ranking.

free webinar is scheduled for Thursday from 10-11 a.m. EDT where employers can learn more about the program and the latest on the Indiana Vision 2025 plan for the state.

Rochester Regional Chamber: Michigan Mask Requirements: Understanding Executive Order 2020-147

Understanding Executive Order 2020-147-Masks can be difficult. Join Brad Lambert of Lambert Law, to help guide you through the many questions and best practices for keeping your employees and customers safe.

Requiring the business community to enforce mask requirements (per EO 2020-147) opens up a wide variety of questions and concerns. We are collaborating with Brad Lambert of Lambert Law to host another great, educational webinar. With our friend and local attorney Brad's help, together we'll guide you through this new order.

Specifically, we are seeking to answer:

· What steps must a small business take to comply with the requirement to not “allow a customer to enter its premises” in the event of non compliance for a customer?
· What does enforcement of Section 3 mean for the businesses in the event of noncompliance of customers?
· What state or law enforcement agencies will be lead on enforcement of this order?


Can't make it? A recording of this webinar will be available on the Chamber's YouTube Channel later this week.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED!
Your registration confirmation email will provide Zoom login.


Governor announces executive order mandating masks for Kentuckians

Citing a steady uptick in statewide COVID-19 cases this week, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear announced Thursday an executive order requiring all Kentuckians to wear personal protective masks in public places until further notice. The order, which Beshear said will take effect at 5 p.m. Friday, comes as the Commonwealth reported 333 new cases Thursday with four new deaths of Kentuckians aged 61-94.

The executive order will initially last for 30 days, and “we’ll see how well we do after that,” Beshear said. “This includes groceries, all retail businesses, forward-facing businesses. If you are inside at a public place and are not able to be six feet apart, you will be required to wear a mask. If you are outside in public and are not able to be six feet apart, you will be required to wear a mask.”

Beshear added that health departments and others will be enforcing the order, and that businesses should deny people service if a patron is not wearing a mask. When asked the consequences for Kentuckians not following the executive order, Beshear said it will start with a warning and that chronic refusal could lead to a fine. Read more: Kentucky Chamber


Midland Business Alliance: Virtual Networking is the Name of the Game


Join us for a Virtual Business Exchange Luncheon on July 29!

Attendees will be assigned to virtual rooms with 7 other people. You will take turns introducing yourself and your business, and throw out one "need" you have. "I'm Melissa from the MBA and currently we are looking for sponsors for WakeUp! Midland."

Once everyone has introduced themselves and has said their "need", the group will discuss ways the members can partner with each other.

We will do this three times - You will be put in three different virtual rooms with three different groups of people.

Get ready to make lots of new connections! Our Business Exchange Luncheon is designed to facilitate conversations and connections among members.

This is an excellent opportunity to showcase your business, promote your products, and find that next business partner or unexpected supplier for your business needs.

LEARN MORE

Event Details
Wednesday, July 29
11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Via Zoom Meetings

Registration: Free to MBA Members

Only 48 spots available. This event is only open to current MBA members.

REGISTER NOW!

Thank You to our Event Sponsor: Michigan Works

10th Congressional District Candidate Debate hosted by Blue Water Area Chamber & Macomb Chamber

The Macomb County Chamber and Blue Water Area Chamber of Commerce invite you to the 2020 10th Congressional District Candidate Debate. This event will be held on July 16th, 2020 from 7:00 p.m. until 8: 30 p.m. via a Zoom webinar. This format ensures that both Chamber members and community members will be able to attend without having social distancing concerns. Attendees will be given an opportunity to participate in question and answer segment at the end of the debate.

FREE
Register Here

Daviess County Coalition Aims to Boost Economic Recovery

DAVIESS COUNTY - The Daviess County Economic Development Corp. has launched a coalition to promote economic recovery efforts during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of the effort, the Advance Daviess County Coalition has begun its first initiative, a campaign to bring the Mid-States Corridor project through the county to connect with I-69.

The coalition consists of leaders from the city of Washington and Daviess County, as well as the local business community and public safety and transportation sectors.

“In Daviess County, it is no secret that we have a variety of unique assets and opportunities,” Bryant Niehoff, executive director of the DCEDC, said in a news release. “Together, backed by this coalition, Daviess County is and will continue to be well-positioned to capture future growth and investment opportunities that push us to the next level.”

The DCEDC says the coalition has identified three main pillars for long-term economic recovery: growth and retention, supply chain creation, and quality of life. The coalition says the campaign, known as Daviess Driven, impacts each of those goals.

The Mid-States Corridor project is an effort to create an improved highway connection in southern Indiana. Project leaders in February unveiled a list of 10 preferred alternatives with the goal of narrowing it down to one by this fall.

“Daviess County provides a unique and advantageous opportunity for the Mid-States Corridor," said Tony Graber, chairman of the coalition. "Not only does our close proximity to I-69 provide a great advantage for travelers, but it would serve as a major transportation artery connecting Northern Indiana to Kentucky, Nashville and as far south as Mobile, Alabama."

Niehoff says having the Mid-States Corridor travel through Daviess County would help bring business growth and development, enhanced quality of life and place, and increased tourism, hospitality and safety.

The members of the Advance Daviess County Coalition include:

Nathan Gabhart, President of the Daviess County Board of Commissioners & Founder/CEO of TrueScripts
Tony Graber, President of Graber Construction/Graber Crane
J. Michael Healy, Councilman for the Town of Montgomery
Joe Morris, Executive Director of the Daviess County Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau
Mayor Dave Rhoads of the City of Washington
Bill Schmidt, General Manager of Daviess-Martin County REMC
David Stowers, Financial Center Manager of German American Bank
Grant Swartzentruber, Swartzentruber Brown & Regional Title Service



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


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

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

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

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