Hafa Adai Catherine,
Board Election Ballots went out on Thursday morning. One ballot was sent to the most senior executive of your company or your designee. Additionally, members must be in good standing with membership dues to vote. If you did not receive a ballot, please give our office a call so we can help you locate it or send a new link.
We look forward to seeing you at next Wednesday's Annual Membership Meeting! Chairman Ed Untalan will provide his end-of-the-year remarks, I will report on the state of the Chamber and we will learn the results of this week's Board elections. The meeting will take place at the Hilton Guam Resort and Spa and it will be a really good meeting - it won't be the same without you so I hope to see you there! The RSVP link is available below if you would like to save your sport today!
Today is Veterans Day. A time we set aside to honor our military servicemen and women who served our country and our island for defending the freedoms and liberty we enjoy today as Americans and citizens of Guam. We owe them our debt and gratitude for the sacrifices they and their families made while they were on watch for us, while they were on the battlefields for us, and while they took on the burdens and trauma of war for us.
After their service, many veterans serve our community differently, many of whom are our very own Chamber members. In respect of your sacrifice, your service, and more, we send our sincerest and most humble Un Dangkulu na Si Yu'os Ma'åse.
As we go about our day today, join me in lifting a positive thought, a silent prayer, for our veterans. May those who have passed from this life, rest in eternal peace. God Bless America and God Bless Guam.
Onward together,
Catherine Castro
President
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Your Chamber Board elections have just begun! Electronic ballots have been sent on Thursday, November 9th, at 8:00 a.m. to the most senior representative in your company unless other arrangements have been made.
There are eight (8) board seats to be filled. Members must be current with dues investment in order to vote in the upcoming election. Individuals listed in the Chamber’s 2023 Membership Roster will be allowed to vote on behalf of the company. Note: A proxy must present a signed letter of authorization on company letterhead in order to vote). For more information, contact your Chamber Team at (671) 472-6311.
For proxy voting, please email the Chamber staff for details.
Helpful dates and deadlines follow:
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November 15: Annual Meeting & Announcement of 2024 Board Directors
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December 4: New Board Orientation & Ethics Training, 9:00 am
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November 17, 2023
"Know Your Risks - More than just an Insurance Discussion"
This month's Small Business Seminar will feature Mr. Dave Silva, Vice President and General Manager of Assurance Broker, Inc. dba: AB Risks Solutions, who will speak on the topic "Know Your Risks - More Than Just An Insurance Discussion".
This Small Business Seminar will take place at the Somnak Ballroom, Westin Resort Guam on Friday, November 17, 2023, From 8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Members are encouraged to RSVP and make advance payments by contacting your Chamber Team to secure your seats and for a swift entry on the day of the event.
Members who RSVP and do not attend will be billed $40.00 unless cancellation is made (in writing) by Thursday, November 16th, at 2:00 p.m.
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December 1, 2023
OSHA Warehousing National
Emphasis Program
Your Guam Chamber Small Business Focus & Development Committee is pleased to announce that the Guam Department of Labor will present OSHA Warehousing National Emphasis Program scheduled for Friday, December 1, 2023, at the Somnak Ballroom, Westin Resort Guam.
Subtopics included addressing various safety hazards that take place in a warehouse/office setting such as forklift, fire, electrical safety, walking surfaces, and more. Owners, managers, and supervisors should consider attending this important seminar. The reservation link is currently live. We anticipate a full house so please reserve your seat(s) today!
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In partnership with the Career Academy of Tiyan High School, your Guam Chamber will be hosting a career day for students to receive first-hand accounts from professionals of various industries. Your presence in the classroom provides a powerful and motivating experience for our students, teachers, and administrators. Often, students are not aware of the various jobs and opportunities available until they interact with our member professionals. This face-to-face encounter with students allows them to learn more about private sector industries and the skillsets needed to thrive in various professions.
The Career Day is scheduled for Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at the Tiyan High School. If your company is interested in speaking for this upcoming event, contact your Chamber Team or email Ms. Jackie or Ms. Rebekah!
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Toys for Tots Drop-Off Sights
The Chamber sends a huge "Thank You!" to our fantastic member companies that have opened their doors as toy drop-off sites for new and unwrapped toys in support of this year's campaign. Gifts will be accepted until December 5th. For a list of companies collecting new and unwrapped toys or if you wish to become a drop-off site, please click the buttons below. 🚂🧸
Need help trying to find the perfect gift? We are here for you! View our holiday gift guide by clicking here. Thank you for your great support!
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Chamber Member Spotlight Podcast
Episode 4 is NOW AVAILABLE 🎧
Your Guam Chamber Small Business Focus and Development Committee is pleased to present to you Episode 4 of Season 2, spotlighting Siska Hutapea, President of Cornerstone Valuation, who provides us with some insight into Guam's real estate economy. This episode was hosted by Guam Chamber's Board of Directors, Chris Duenas
Click your favorite links below to hear Ms. Siska's Story!
Spotify • Apple Podcasts • Youtube
Stay connected with us on our social media platforms for the announcements of our upcoming events and new episode releases! Click your go-to social media platforms below and follow us!
Instagram • Facebook • X • LindkedIn
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The U.S. Chamber secured a legal victory against the SEC's stock buyback rule, protecting businesses from regulatory overreach
Earlier this week, the U.S. Chamber won a monumental victory when the Fifth Circuit blocked the Securities and Exchange Council's (SEC) stock buyback rule.
Fill me in: The SEC's stock buyback rule would have disincentivized companies from using stock buybacks to grow their business and improve returns for savers and investors across the country.
What are stock buybacks? When public companies have extra cash, they frequently repurchase their stock as a means of efficiently managing that excess capital.
Before the SEC created a means for companies to buy back their stock, there was considerable evidence that some managers would use surpluscash for projects or acquisitions that were not in the best economic interest of the company.
Today, share repurchase plans (also called stock buybacks) are a tool used as part of broader management strategies that help companies make healthy financial decisions and provide value to investors.
What we did: The U.S. Chamber sued the SEC on May 12. We did so because of our position on stock buybacks, but also because it wasn't just about stock buybacks; It was also about protecting businesses from government micromanagement.
Cracking Down on Crime: Urgent Measures for a Safer Business Landscape
A new report from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce highlights a significant increase in crime across communities and businesses in the U.S., affecting both small and large retailers.
Why it matters: Organized retail crime, in particular, has become more pervasive, causing nearly $100 billion in retailer losses last year. Small businesses have been hit hard, with many reporting theft as a growing problem.
By the numbers: Reported retail crime by S&P 500 companies from January to August 2023 is already 43% higher than all of last year.
Over half of small businesses reported incidents of theft, and 53% of these businesses indicated that the issue has worsened.
Fill me in: In a March 2022 letter, the U.S. Chamber declared organized retail crime a national crisis and called on policymakers for specific actions. Progress in the fight against organized retail theft has included the passage of the INFORM Act by Congress, as well as enhanced prosecution capabilities in 12 states and the enactment of new laws in 19 state legislatures to address this issue.
The bottom line: The rising crime issue impacts both small and large businesses, necessitating a strong response from policymakers. This includes enhanced public-private collaboration, revised laws for cross-jurisdiction prosecution, and proactive prosecution of business-related crimes by local prosecutors.
Have You Been Fooled by Fake Reviews?
The U.S. Chamber's Push for Change
It's a situation you've likely encountered. You read glowing reviews that paint a place or product in a positive light, only to be let down when you actually experience or purchase it. Chances are, you've been deceived by fake online reviews.
Fill me in: The FTC is considering a rule to penalize businesses for fake online reviews, prohibiting buying/selling, incentivizing, threats, and undisclosed insider reviews. The U.S. Chamber generally supports the FTC's proposed rule but has some suggestions to enhance it.
Why it matters: Fake reviews are detrimental to both consumers and businesses, as they mislead consumers and damage a business's reputation and trustworthiness.
The bottom line: The U.S. Chamber calls for the FTC to work more closely with the business community to combat fake reviews. A robust rule should consider both business and consumer experiences, and we are committed to continued engagement with the FTC toward this goal.
Read more about the significant consequences on businesses and the economy here.
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Investiture of Dr. Anita Borja Enriquez
Tuesday, November 14, 2023
The University of Guam Administration Office of the President invites you to the Investiture Ceremony of Dr. Anita Borja Enriquez, DBA 12th President of the University of Guam.
This investiture ceremony will take place at the University of Guam Calvo Field House in Mangilao on Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at 2:30 p.m. Deadline to RSVP for their ceremony will be on Monday, November 13th at 12:00 noon. Refreshments will be served after the ceremony. For more information, contact Norman Analista via email.
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Saint Cecilia Music Gala 2023
Monday, November 20, 2023
The Guam Philharmonic, Inc. presents to you the "Saint Cecilia Music Gala 2023" scheduled for Monday, November 20, 2023, at the Kahida, Guam Plaza Resort.
This music gala will be featuring the Award-winning Tumon Bay Youth Orchestra performing the works of Handel, Massanet, and Palomo. Also, the music from the Oscar-winning animated film "Spirited Away" by acclaimed Japanese composer, Joe Hiaishi.
Information on ticket amount is as follows:
$24 - Student and Seniors
$35 - General Admission
$50 - VIP Reserved Seatings
Tickets can be paid for and picked up at the Micronesian Mall - Concourse 1, Suite 101 + 102 from Saturday, November 11th through Sunday, November 19th from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online or by scanning the QR code from the graphic.
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Strategies For Managing The New Overtime Exemption Threshold Rule
November 15, 2023
SHRM Guam Chapter Presents Strategies For Managing The New Overtime Exemption Threshold Rule scheduled for Wednesday, November 15, 2023, at the Dusit Thani Guam Resort.
What to expect:
- Understanding FLSA basic and implications
- Exploring proposed changes
- Analyzing key benefits and challenges
- Practical insights from experts
- Strategies for Compliance
- Understanding workforce impact
- Sharing Survey insights
- Engage in open dialogue
Fee to register for this event is $40 for SHRM members and $50 for future members.
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Christmases Not Forgotten
Sunday, December 3, 2023
The Mañenggn Memorial Foundation invites you and your family to Christmases Not Forgotten, honoring Christmases lost during World War Two (WWII) in Guam.
Brunch, Santa, world class entertainment & surprises for Guam's WWII survivors! This event will take place at the Ocean Sirena Ballroom, RIHGA Royal Laguna Guam Resort on Sunday, December 3, 2023. Family tables & corporate sponsors are available. Ticket prices for Guam WWII Survivors will be $25, and $65 for individuals.
For more information, contact Mañenggon Memorial Foundation at (671) 646-1714 or email them.
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SBA Small Business Awards
Sunday, April 28 - Monday, April 29, 2024
National Small Business Week is an opportunity to recognize and celebrate their achievement and the essential contributions they make across the country.
To nominate a small business owner in your area or download related forms, criteria and guidelines, visit SBA's website. All nominations must be submitted electronically by 6:00 am December 8, 2023 (CHsT). The award will be presented during the NSWBS Award ceremony in Washington D.C. from Sunday, April 28, Monday, April 29, 2023.
The SBA's signature award during NSBW is the Small Business Person of the Yea. A small Business owner from each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Guam will be selected for individual Sate Winner award. The states award winners will complete for the title of National Small Business Person of the Year.
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2023
Industry Recovery Updates
Click here
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View Guam APEX
Accelerators
November 2023
Training Events
Webinars are held every Thursday from 10am - 11:30am via Zoom.
Zoom links emailed to registered attendees 30 minutes before the webinar.
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Member2Member Benefits Program
Announcement: SPPC has just informed us that the special deal for Chamber members ends this month on November 20th because they have something special to announce. Stay tuned to their social media platforms for details
Member2Member deals provide members an opportunity to save money on services and goods. This program offers participating members a vehicle to expose their business, products, and services to thousands of employees of fellow Chamber members. Offers include discounts or very special deals on office supplies, advertising, entertainment, insurance, auto services, catering, meeting spaces, and more.
Join our member companies who have offered their special deals to Chamber Members!
Access Medical Transport
Busy Ant Marketing
Docomo Pacific
Hotel Nikko Guam
Jaded & Cure
Market Research & Development, Inc.
MBC, Inc GU
Norman & Son, LLC
Promotions Specialties
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Holiday playlist in full gear!
It's the Holiday Season! Pumpkin goodies and apple pleasures delight our tastebuds this month, and we've got just the right mood-setting music to go with the treats!
We've curated a thoughtful Thanksgiving playlist that is sure to please! Give it a listen by clicking here!
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