The start of a new year is a time for business owners to feel hopeful and optimistic about what's to come. January is a great month to take action, set goals, recognize even the smallest achievements, and avoid getting discouraged by any setbacks that may arise. The past three years have been tough for everyone, but many business owners have managed to stay strong and face the challenges that came their way. As we step into the new year, remember that you have the ability to overcome any obstacle that comes your way. Keep a positive attitude and stay engaged, because the more involved you are, the quicker you'll be able to move past any setbacks and focus on your goals.

The Chamber is kicking off the year with a bang, offering plenty of chances to connect, learn, and have fun with a full schedule of events. Our first Business After Hours event will coincide with the Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting ceremony at The Establishment on Tuesday, January 16, from 5-7pm. This will be a great opportunity to meet other Chamber members and enjoy delicious hors d'oeuvres. If you can't make an after-work event fit into your schedule, don't worry - we've got you covered. Join us for our first Lunch Mob of the Year at Wegmans on Sheridan Drive. Lunch Mob has become a favorite of our Chamber members, with around 30 to 40 people regularly attending. We're excited to hold this event at Wegmans' café, as they have been a fantastic supporter of our Chamber over the years. Register for the Lunch Mob by clicking <here>.

Mark your calendars for Friday, February 2, because you won't want to miss the first of our "Big Four" events of the year at Reikart House. At the Chamber’s Annual Meeting, we'll unveil our 2024 Economic Development and Public Policy Agenda, seating the 2024 Board of Directors, and hear from Amherst Town Supervisor Brian Kulpa as he gives his yearly State of the Town Address. This event was a sell-out last year, and space is limited. So, act fast and register today to secure your spot at this can't-miss event.

Our Emerging Business Leader's program is currently accepting applications for the 2024 cohort of young professionals seeking to enhance their professional skills and expand their networks. I urge all members to look within their organizations and identify a young professional who would benefit from and enjoy this program. Even small investments in team members can significantly impact an organization's morale. For more information, please visit our website by clicking here. We're also very excited to announce ... READ MORE.

Have you completed the required Sexual Harassment Training for your employees yet this year? Ally HR Partners provides flexible options, including in person and virtual live sessions for your teams to make sure you are in compliance with his NYS requirement.

Reach out to emartin@allyhrpartners.com for more info!

Switch up your commute GO Buffalo Niagara and you just might win $50! Start off 2024 by trying something new - think walking, biking, public transit, or carpooling. Create a free account at QuestionYourCommute.org and check your options on the Commuter Portal.

You can make healthy choices for yourself and our community–don’t forget that Shop716 money goes directly to our local businesses. Sign up for GO Buffalo Niagara Commuter Rewards here!

We consult with experts and Rabbinic authorities to make sure we provide resources that are Torah-consonant for those who have a concern. Our approach to personal growth and healing is caring, flexible, and inclusive. Visit www.Toratherapeutics.com for free inspiration and ideas for healthy living!

Filling seven days with healthy, home-cooked meals can feel intimidating. But a little advance planning goes a long way in helping you pull off a weekly family meal plan. Here’s how to make it happen for your household this year:

1.     Take a day each week to organize. Peruse your cabinets or pantry to see what you already have on hand. Make note of staples you’re low on—such as whole wheat pasta, unsalted canned vegetables, and frozen seafood—and keep an eye out for sales and special prices when you shop.

2.     Decide on your dishes. Consult the list of foods you already have, along with grocery store ads and your coupon file. Using those ingredients, create a list of five to seven easy-to-prepare, nutritious main courses. Popular options include tacos, spaghetti, stir-fries, salads, oven-baked chicken, casseroles, and slow-cooker stews.

3.     Work out your week. Slot your meals into different days on the calendar. Keep your schedule in mind. Choose simple, tried-and-true favorites for busy nights. Save new menus or complicated recipes for less hectic times, such as weekends. One time-saving step: Match up main ingredients and cook them in large batches. The same grilled chicken can star in salads on Tuesday and fajitas on Friday. Black beans or ground beef can fill Thursday’s taco shells and Sunday’s stew bowls.

4.     Line up your list. Write down any ingredients you’ll need to purchase. Organize them by grocery store aisle. Add a few basics that can give new life to leftovers. For instance, greens can turn leftover salmon into a seafood salad. Canned beans and tomatoes transform uneaten chops into pork chili.

5.     Plan your prep work. After you’ve shopped, consider what you can do to make the rest of the week go smoothly. For instance, wash, peel, and chop vegetables for a meal you’re making tomorrow. Also, consider making extra batches of entire dishes, such as pasta, soups, and stews. Freeze them in family-sized portions before or after cooking for an easy weeknight meal.

By planning your meals in advance, you can save time, spend less money at the grocery story, and adopt a more nutritious, well-balanced diet.