H-2B Update
The Armed Forces Committee is pleased to report that the House Armed Services Committee has passed the FY 2021 NDAA (H.R. 6395) which includes the extension of H-2B visa exemptions for non-DoD projects that the Chamber's AFC Steering Committee has worked diligently on with Congressman Michael San Nicolas.

Please see the official press release from our Guam Delegate below:
For Immediate Release

William "Mac" Thornberry National Defense Authorization Act for 2021 passes the House.

In a vote of 295 yea / 125 nay the 2021 NDAA H.R. 6395 has passed the U.S. House of Representatives with bi-partisan support.

Significantly, H.R. 6395 contains language to extend H-2B exemptions for civilian labor projects on Guam, and also includes an additional $662,830,000 in military buildup projects.

"This year we have over $662 million in military buildup spending for Guam and have a long-awaited solution to our need for H-2B construction labor to be available for civilian projects on Guam, passing the House of Representatives with bi-partisan support." opened Congressman San Nicolas. "This brings our total military spending on Guam for our term to just under $1 Billion, and this along with the breakthrough in our H-2B circumstances are indicative of our ability to continue delivering outcomes for our people working collaboratively to address armed services issues." Congressman San Nicolas added.

"As H.R. 6395 moves to the Senate for consideration we will again be engaging local civic groups, our Guam Republican Party, and leadership in the Government of Guam to all lend their support in getting these critical provisions over the finish line and enacted into law," Congressman San Nicolas concludes.
July 22nd General Membership Meeting Recap
We would like to thank Jon Fernandez, Guam Department of Education Superintendent; Joe Sanchez, Deputy Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction and Erika Cruz, Deputy Superintendent of Assessment & Accountability for today's virtual presentation. They provided a comprehensive update about the Department of Education's Re-opening Plan for School Year 2020 - 2021.

In case you missed it, you may view it on our Youtube channel.
The World Is Your Marketplace:
Protecting Your Exports with EXIM

We live in a trade driven economy, with 95% of the world's consumers and two-thirds of all purchasing power located outside the United States. As a result, companies that export are more financially stable and expand faster. Are you interested in your small business competing in that global marketplace? Worried about the risks when it comes to exporting?

In this webinar, you will learn: Why your company should be exporting, no matter how small the business; How you can protect yourself against exporting-related risks; and, How to improve your company's cash flow.

Presenter:
Sandra Donzella
Deputy Managing Director
Western Region, EXIM

Cost: No fee for Chamber Members
When: Wednesday, August 5, 2020, 10:00 a.m.

AUGUST 19TH CONGRESSIONAL FORUM

The Chamber has scheduled a Congressional Forum on August 19th. Stay tuned for details on how you can participate virtually or in person!
Friday, July 24, 2020 • 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Staying Fit & Healthy While Social Distancing
Jesse E. Rosario
Owner/Nutrition Professional
The Boka Box

Webinar Details:
Upon registration, a GoToWebinar link will be sent to you for your participation.
Access is available via your Mac, PC or a mobile device.
GYP logo
SMALL BUSINESS COMMITTEE - WEBINAR SERIES:

Friday, August 7, 2020 • 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Preparing for Reopening —
Re-establishing the Work Value and Employee Job Satisfaction

TOSHIE ITO
Proprietor
Motiva Training & Consulting

Cost: No fee for Chamber Members
$20.00 for Future Members

Once your reservation and payment is received, you will receive a password for the webinar.
Access is available via your Mac, PC or a mobile device.
GOVERNMENT OF GUAM UPDATES
If your business is still in need of a financial boost and you haven't taken advantage of US SBA' s PPP program, please remember that the deadline for all applications is Saturday, August. 8th.

Additionally, the Guam Economic Development Authority (GEDA) still has funds available in their Small Business Pandemic Assistance Grant Program.
Review the latest from the U.S. Small Business Administration:

US CHAMBER UPDATES
OUR COMMUNITY
REGISTER TO VOTE!
If you would like to vote but are not registered, you can register online at the  Guam Election Commission's website . You will need to have either a valid Guam Drivers License or Guam identification card to register electronically. 


Dates to remember:

  • Guam Primary Election: Saturday, August 29, 2020 [Polls open: 7 am - 8 pm]

  • General Election: Tuesday, November 3, 2020 [Polls open: 7 am - 8 pm]
If you would like to know if you are registered to vote in this year's elections  click here
Send In Your Nominations!
For many years, the Guam Chamber of Commerce recognized individuals, organizations and companies that made a difference in the beautification of our island. This recognition will spotlight a business, an individual or organization that has made significant improvements to a building, an area, a site or has created a meaningful and effective beautification effort, please submit a nomination form to the Guam Chamber of Commerce.

Some questions and thoughts to consider in writing up the nomination could include:
  • Information about what improvements were made
  • What unique ideas or innovations were implemented?
  • Were there environmental issues at the site and how were the concerns addressed?
  • Who made the improvements?
  • Did the improvements involve the use of local plants, trees and flowers?
  • How did the project help to beautify our village/ our island?

The benefits of a beautiful area makes a big difference for all our residents and visitors alike. Help us to recognize those that make a positive difference in our community by keeping our island clean and beautiful. Na' La Bonita Guam!
Guam Chamber of Commerce
472-6311• info@GuamChamber.com.gu