June 2, 2020

NEWS & UPDATES

Remembering Congressman Sam Johnson Along with so many others, the Plano Chamber of Commerce is mourning the loss of our longtime Congressman Sam Johnson today. Few people leave behind as big of a mark on our community as Congressman Johnson. Following a lifetime of active and remarkable service to his community and country, the news of his passing is a moment of true loss for all of us. Congressman Johnson was a native Texan, a decorated war veteran, a prisoner of war survivor, small business owner, State Representative, United States Congressman, husband, father, and ally. To the Plano Chamber, he was a reliable and consistent voice for our business community, a humble and servant leader, and a true friend. His passing leaves behind a legacy of making our city, our country and our world a better place and we are grateful to have had the opportunity to know him and will never forget his contributions to all of us. CLICK HERE to view a video produced in honor of Congressman Johnson's receipt of the 2017 Citizen of the Year award.

Apply Now for the City of Plano Small Business Grant Program Applications are now being accepted for the City of Plano's Small Business Grant Program. Small businesses with 15 or fewer employees are encouraged to apply before the deadline of June 4, 2020 at 11:59 PM. CLICK HERE to read more from Community Impact Newspaper Plano.

Best of Plano 2020 Nominations are now open! Do you know a local company, business leader, or community volunteer that you would like to see recognized at this year's Best of Plano? Now is the time to let us know! We are currently accepting nominations for our 2020 Best of Plano honorees. Submit your nomination by filling out a brief, online questionnaire. You can nominate one of your well-deserving contacts, but feel free to nominate yourself or your own company as well! The deadline to nominate is Friday, July 3rd.

Plano Pulse: Meet Flip Howard (WORKSUITES) In this episode of Plano Pulse, our guest is Flip Howard, CEO of WORKSUITES. Flip joins our hosts in a discussion of insights gained through his nearly 20 years in the coworking industry, including his approach to business growth and his vision for the future of the workplace.  Plano Pulse is brought to you by our Presenting Sponsor,   WORKSUITES .  Two ways to listen! CLICK HERE to subscribe on Apple Podcasts or CLICK HERE to listen on SoundCloud.

Business Center Closed The Plano Chamber office is reopening to staff on Monday, June 8, 2020. Members who need to meet with staff must make an appointment, which may be able to be held virtually. The Business Center will reopen on Monday, July 6, 2020, by appointment only. We appreciate all members and your patience as we safely reopen our facilities.

Resources for Job Seekers The Plano Chamber is dedicated to helping connect outstanding local talent with our local business community to support businesses who are expanding their hiring during the COVID-19 outbreak and to provide new opportunities to those who have lost their jobs or are furloughed. CLICK HERE to view a list of local businesses that are hiring, as well as other resources. Does your business have multiple, immediate hire positions available? Contact Kathy Marcum to be added to the list.

CHAMBER EVENTS & PROGRAMS

Let's Talk About It Tuesday Afternoons | 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Zoom | FREE to attend Pour your afternoon pick me up, press pause on those emails, and zoom onto a chat with the Chamber staff and your fellow members. Let’s talk about some positives, the challenges, and how we are pivoting through this. The best way through this is together.    REGISTER HERE

Virtual Business Interchange Friday Mornings | 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Zoom | FREE to attend We may be social distancing, but we won't stop networking... virtually! Local professionals and small business owners are invited to join us for our weekly Business Interchange meetings, hosted on Zoom each Friday morning! REGISTER HERE

Ambassador Focus Forum Tuesday, June 9 | 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. Zoom | FREE to attend. Advanced registration required.  Increase your commitment to the Plano Chamber by becoming a Plano Chamber of Commerce Ambassador. As an Ambassador you will, be the first to meet new business members for potential business and social contacts. REGISTER HERE

Maximize Your Membership Wednesday, June 17 | 3:30 p.m. - 4:15 p.m. Zoom | Free to attend. Registration is required. Are you a prospective member interested in learning about Chamber membership? Register today for this informative and FREE program that will help you understand why now is the right time to invest in your business by being a member of the Plano Chamber .     . REGISTER HERE

Let's Do It Together Thursday, June 18 | 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. Zoom | FREE to attend Join Christine & Kathy, your membership team, for a guided tutorial of your membership benefits, a virtual tour of the membership portal, and learn how to take full advantage of the web tools available. REGISTER HERE

COVID-19 RESOURCES

COVID-19 Business Resources As our business community responds to the spread of COVID-19, the Plano Chamber of Commerce has pulled together a list of resources to provide support to organizational leaders and small business owners. CLICK HERE to read more.

Plano Business Hub The Plano Chamber recently launched Plano Business Hub, a Facebook group that brings together the community in support of local businesses. In addition to sharing pertinent business resources, group members can plug in to the local business community and be the first to hear about special deals, innovative services, online shopping opportunities, and offers from local restaurants. CLICK HERE to join and invite your friends to help us spread the word!

Plano Chamber Business Bulletin In order to keep you informed on the evolving impact of COVID-19 on our local community, the Plano Chamber is publishing updates on Mondays and Thursdays on the Business Bulletin. We will share the top news items that you need to read to stay up-to-date on important health, community, and business issues as they develop. CLICK HERE to read more.

PLANO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.planochamber.org

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