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NYS Vaccination/Mask Requirements Went into Effect 12/13; Learn More Below
 
We have received additional information regarding Governor Hochul’s announcement last week that masks will be required to be worn in all indoor public places unless businesses or venues implement a vaccine requirement. Look below for the official announcement and an FAQs page.

Each business should consider your capacity to enforce requirements as you decide how to best comply; please also ensure that you are sharing accurate information with consumers. There is NO blanket vaccination requirement in place for particular industry sectors, as we've seen some businesses stating - read the FAQs below for specific industry sector and general policy guidance.
 
This action to address the winter surge comes as COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations rise statewide. You’re likely aware that some hospital systems in NYS are diverting patients or unable to accommodate regular medical procedures. Our community must work together to avoid this potential outcome - to protect each other, to help alleviate workload related to testing and contact tracing, and to reduce burden on our healthcare system. Recent updates from Tompkins County Health Department indicate a significant increase in community spread, and these additional precautions are well-timed.
 
The Governor’s full announcement is available here and a list of Frequently Asked Questions is available here.
Welcome, New Members!
Show our new members your support!
Shop small to make a big difference!
Your Family & Business can Support Local this Holiday Season!

When you #shoptompkins, you are supporting our local communities. ⁠Buy gift cards, pre-purchase services or memberships, gift local or regional experiences, seek out one-of-a-kind handmade creations - and so much more right in our backyard.

How will you #buylocal this week?
Women in Business Roundtable
Moved to Virtual
Tuesday, December 14 | 3:00-4:30pm
This event provides a time and place to share experiences, challenges, and successes together. Any Chamber member business owners, leaders, or team members, who identify as women are welcome. Join a fantastic group of women to share, encourage, and inspire!
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Grand Opening of WellBeing Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
December 15 at 2:00pm

Join us for a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the grand opening of WellBeing Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine! WellBeing is a new medical practice serving patients from birth to age 21. Their mission is to foster the growth of each child’s mind, body, and spirit through medical expertise, role modeling, and education.
Join Us for a January Networking at Noon!
DECEMBER POSTPONED:
Networking at Noon
January 20th | 12:00-1:30pm
at To Be Confirmed

Our next Networking at Noon will be focused on Insurance and Legal industry insights and held at the Ithaca Downtown Marriott with lunch catered by Monks on the Commons. This month's topic will focus on pandemic impacts to the legal and insurance industry sector as it pertains to businesses, nonprofit organizations, and employers. Questions in advance are welcome!
Member News & Events
Ithaca Beer & Tompkins Connect
Ugly Sweater Holiday Party
& GIAC Toy Drive
Thursday, December 16 | 6:00-9:00pm

Come ring in the holiday season at Ithaca Beer Co. for Tompkins Connect's signature Ugly Sweater Party and GIAC Toy Drive! Tompkins Connect will be collecting new toys for the Greater Ithaca Activities Center (GIAC) for children 5-7 years old (the gifts do not need to be wrapped). Please help them reach their goal of donating 30 toys this year and spread some holiday cheer to the children of our community!
Well Said Media Year-End Offer for Members - 10% Off
As the New Year approaches, Well Said Media wants to give a special gift to you. Book a project by Dec. 23 and receive a 10% discount! Get a head start on your 2022 goals with an impactful video. Use this opportunity to develop more content for your business and reach more people.

Going virtual? They can help you bring the energy of a live event to a virtual audience, with a polished look. Or simply use our studio space & green screen room for your video needs, all with 10% off! Take advantage of this offer— it’s only open for a short time. 
Resources & Reminders
On-the-Job Training Grant Program
Funding is intended to support people in recovery receiving educational and training supports, new or expanded job opportunities, and maintaining a recovery friendly employer base in Tompkins County. There is still over $75,000 in funding available.
Tompkins County Tourism Program Providing Outdoor Recreation Grants
Tompkins Outdoors Grants will provide general operating support to organizations that are either responsible for the stewardship of outdoor recreation assets or offer outdoor recreation programming. Funds can be used to advance activities, projects, and staff that build organizational capacity and align with goals in the Strategic Tourism Plan.
NYS Grants Available to Plan Local Government Reorganization
The Local Government Efficiency (LGe) program, administered by the New York Department of State Division of Local Government Services, provides financial and technical assistance to local governments for planning and implementation activities necessary for the re-organization of municipal government and government functions. The LGe program provides the opportunity for local government officials to examine and implement new initiatives that can help reduce the growth in municipal expenses and introduce new efficiencies in the delivery of services.
Tompkins County
Microenterprise Assistance Program
The program seeks to support startup microenterprises with fifty percent or more of the allocated grant funds, and will focus on rural areas in Tompkins County, as well as development of childcare businesses, agricultural and tourism businesses, and minority- and woman- owned businesses. Program objectives include serving low- and moderate-income microenterprise business owners directly or supporting the creation of new jobs made available to low-moderate income residents of Tompkins County.  Full Press Release >
Tompkins Connect
Fab5 Awards celebrate the achievement of Tompkins County young professionals, ages 21-40, who are growing and excelling in their respective fields and in the community. This year, we're seeking young professionals who have been able to shine and excel despite the unprecedented challenges our community has faced over the last year and a half.
Important EIDL Deadline Update 
The deadline for Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) applications is December 31, 2021.
It is strongly recommended you apply as soon as possible. 
Tompkins Together Campaign
Working in the hospitality industry is not easy, made even more challenging by the changes brought on by the coronavirus pandemic. To ensure hospitality workers know their work is valued and appreciated, Visit Ithaca, Tompkins Chamber, and the Downtown Ithaca Alliance have launched a campaign to support people working in the industry. You will see posters, window clings and messages across Ithaca and the surrounding communities. If you are interested in showing support and encouraging kindness at your business, request materials through this form or direct download here.
Member Job Postings
Please, share with appropriate referrals/candidates!


Hiring? Send us a link to your job posting at npotenza@tompkinschamber.org, AND tag #workinithaca when you post on social media.
View COVID-19 Business Resources
Our team is here to help.

Just call the Chamber at 607-273-7080, or email us at info@tompkinschamber.org. For specific need areas:

Sarah Barden, Member Relationship Manager
Shelby Green, Office Assistant
Carly Hansen, Director of Operations & HR
Diane Hemly, Office Manager & Bookkeeper
Cloud Kelley, Business & Workforce Development Specialist
Nana Potenza, Marketing & Communications Manager
Jennifer Tavares, CEcD, President & CEO
David Walton, Event & Program Manager

Note: Our East Shore Dr. office is staffed most weekdays from 10-4pm for pick up or delivery, and our entire team is available by appointment. Please call 607-273-7080 during normal business hours.
Have news to share? Email npotenza@tompkinschamber.org to have it included in the Chambergram!