To kick off the month of February, we had an incredible show of support from our business community and elected officials at our Annual Meeting. We were back in person for the first time in nearly three years for this event, and the energy in the room did not disappoint. With a standing-room-only crowd, the Chamber seated our 2023 Board of Directors; we unveiled our updated strategic plan and our Economic Development and Public Policy Agenda, a guiding light in our advocacy work as we continue to work towards creating a more robust Western New York economy. In addition, we heard from Amherst Town Supervisor Brian Kulpa about where the town has been and where it is headed. One longtime Chamber remarked, "on the coldest day of the winter, the Chamber is the hottest place to be."

We kicked off our Emerging Business Leaders Leadership Program this past week, and we couldn't be more excited for this record-breaking class participation of young professionals from nearly 30 different companies throughout our region. This once-a-month class will hone their professional skills, expand their social networks, and give our participants a chance to give back to the Western New York community. As part of their class programming, they will participate in our upcoming EBL Symposium on Friday, March 24, from 10:30am-4:00pm at Daemen University. Last year over 80 young professionals joined us for this half-day professional development in three distinct ways. Our presenters are experts in their field and will focus on Building your Personal brand, Inclusive Leadership, and Behavioral Science in the workplace. Our Symposium is open to ALL members and nonmembers of the Chamber. Daemen University was an incredible host last year, and we can't wait to return; please click here for more information.

At the end of this month, we will host our first West Herr Driven to Success Series with Erie County Sheriff John Garcia. Sheriff Garcia is through his first year in elected office and will provide some eye-opening information about the many facets of their organization. Our Driven to Success Series is a smaller event to encourage discussion with community leaders about their organization and learn more about their personal story.

Our professional group for women, Leadership & Inspiration for Trailblazers (LIFT), kicks off next month with their inaugural event on Sunday, March 5, at the Buffalo Beauts Hockey Game. I will be proud to drop the puck alongside my daughter Cecilia. Later that week, on International Woman's Day, Lift will host Females and Finance at The Establishment hosted by Vision Financial Group. The LIFT council has been working tirelessly in developing its core values, and we are so thankful for this incredible group of women who have come together to create such a thoughtful and meaningful council that will serve as a pillar of the Chamber.

Finally, I would like to congratulate our 2023 Board of Directors. Their commitment to our organization to lend their expertise and counsel allows our organization to flourish in our community. Also, I owe a debt of gratitude to our board Chair Mark Gaulin. Mark has worked tirelessly to ensure the Chamber remains focused on our mission. His collaborative spirit and attention to detail continue to push the Chamber to new heights. I thank everyone for your support in 2022, and 2023 promises to be an even better year. Please remember, if you need anything, my door is open.  

"Amherst leads" was the focus of this year’s State of the Town. Supervisor Brian Kulpa unveiled the new website www.amherstleads.com in partnership with the Amherst Industrial Development Agency. Amherst is the 4th largest municipality in NYS and the largest Town in Erie County.

This Chamber wide FAMILY event is hosted by LIFT in partnership with the Buffalo Beauts ~ Buffalo's own Premier Hockey Federation professional women's hockey team. The Amherst Chamber recognizes the importance of women's professional sports teams and highlights them on Sunday, March 5th at the Northtown Center in Amherst.

Pass this on to your Managers & HR Department

so they can offer it to employees.

This is available to all Amherst Chamber Members and their entire staff/team.

Horizon is committed to improving your well-being through the use of evidence-based treatment modalities in a warm, welcoming, and non-judgmental environment. Our team is comprised of clinicians with diverse backgrounds and specialties to meet your individual needs.

Who’s in your corner as you tackle each business day?

O’Donnell and Associates, a top NY lobbying and public affairs firm, is a powerful advocate, deeply rooted in the ever-changing political and legislative landscape. Our team gives you the competitive edge you need to reach your goals. 

And, stay on top of what's happening in state and federal politics, sign up here to join the growing number of leaders who rely on our Monday Morning Memo to keep them informed.

Did you know that prediabetes affects one in three American adults, but most don’t even know they have it? It’s true, and without action, many will develop type 2 diabetes within three to five years.

The good news is you can reverse prediabetes and prevent type 2 diabetes by making simple, daily lifestyle changes, which is exactly what a Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) is designed to help you do. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), joining a DPP can cut your risk of developing type 2 diabetes by up to 58% (71% for people over 60 years old). That’s why Independent Health is pleased to offer the Brook+ Diabetes Prevention Program as a fully-covered $0 benefit for most of our plans.

Brook+ is a year-long program that helps participants make real lifestyle changes, such as eating healthier, incorporating physical activity into their daily lives, and improving problem-solving and coping skills. It’s a completely digital DPP, meaning it can be accessed using a smartphone, tablet or computer. No classrooms or clinic visits are necessary. Instead, you can use the program when it’s convenient for you.

·       One-on-one guidance and advice from a CDC-trained, personal lifestyle coach who customizes the program to fit their lifestyle needs and goals.

·       Access to group support for encouragement, sharing ideas, and celebrating success.

·       A free digital scale and Fitbit to track their progress in the program. The scale is mailed upon program signup while the Fitbit voucher is sent after 4 weeks of program participation.

More than 11,000 Independent Health members have participated in the Brook+ program since it was launched two years ago. WGRZ recently aired a story about how Brook+ has helped one East Aurora resident lose nearly 200 pounds and improve his overall health. You can view the story by clicking here.

For more information or to check if you’re eligible for the program, please visit the Brook+ website.