News, Happenings & Collaborations |
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Included in this Issue ... |
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- Final day for Annual Awards nominations
- Wine & Craft Beverage Summit next week
- Join a Chamber committee
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- Meet WGACC's Abby Lane
- Grant and loan opportunities for small biz
- Hawk Meadow Farm recognized for syrup
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Visit Watkins Glen
& Schuyler County
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Watkins Glen
Area Chamber
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Join us!
Wine & Craft Beverage Tourism Summit is Feb. 24 & 25
Free registration! Two-hour summit offered two different days, featuring an exchange of ideas and strategy
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Join us for an intriguing discussion of the tribulations and triumphs during the pandemic, as pertaining to tourism. Come to exchange ideas, strategize, and learn from one another. In short, the Wine & Craft Beverage Summit will take what we know and turn it into success for 2021. Participation is free and prizes will be featured.
Presented by Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce and Schuyler County’s Tourism Promotion Agency (TPA), along with Seneca Lake Wine Trail and Yates and Seneca County TPAs.
Participants only need to attend one day. The two-hour summit will be offered on two different days, to accommodate participant schedules.
2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 24
Speakers include Liz Stamp from Lakewood and Brian McKenzie
from Finger Lakes Distilling. Others to be announced.
(with optional happy hour following)
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25
Speakers to be announced.
(with optional brown-bag social hour following)
RSVP by sending an email to Info@WatkinsGlenChamber.com to receive an agenda and Zoom link. You may attend one or both sessions and/or the networking activities following. If you have specific topics or questions to share, please contact the facilitator, Michael Hardy, at Michael@WatkinsGlenChamber.com or (607) 535-4300.
SAVE THE DATE
A Lodging and Accommodations Summit
will take place March 9 and 10!
Details will be shared soon.
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Final Day!
2021 Annual Awards nominations close today, Feb. 15
Nominations are being accepted through the end of today (Monday, Feb. 15) for the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce’s 2021 Annual Awards. Community members are encouraged to nominate deserving individuals. The award criteria for consideration are listed below. Winners will be announced on March 3 at the Chamber’s virtual After Hours Mixer.
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Click here to download nomination form
Click here to download nomination form
Click here to download nomination form
Click here to download nomination form
Award nominations must be completed and sent to the Watkins Glen Area Chamber
of Commerce by no later than end of business on Monday, Feb. 15. Nomination forms
can be dropped off or mailed to 214 N. Franklin Street, Watkins Glen, NY 14891,
faxed to (607) 535-6243, or emailed to Michael Hardy,
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Next B2B Meet Up
is this Wednesday, Feb. 17
The next Business to Business (“B2B”) will be Wednesday, Feb. 17 from 2 to 3 p.m. via ZOOM. Attendees will have the opportunity to share updates regarding their business/organization during our "Around the Screen" portion of the program. The "B2B Meet Up" is a monthly networking and business exchange program. The guest presenter will be Jenn B. Smith of GROW NY, with a discussion surrounding the agricultural richness of our state and region.
Meeting ID: 815 3020 0081
Passcode: 538028
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The next Simpleview training
is 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 16
A major benefit of the new explorewatkinsglen.com website is that members have the option to be listed on multiple locations on the site with subcategories. Each member is assigned a category upon joining the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce, and like their amenities, have the ability to pick their subcategories. If you would like to change/update your subcategories, please make up to four selections of subcategories by downloading this document.You can submit the document with updates, including business name and contact information, via email, in person, or by mail.
Zoom Link for Feb. 16 training:
Meeting ID: 845 7188 3465
Passcode: 505818
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Next 'Talking Tuesdays'
is Feb. 23
Chat with Executive Director Michael Hardy about the pressing issues for tourism-based businesses. The next "Talking Tuesdays" will be next week, from Noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 23. These sessions are comprised of brainstorming, planning, information from the Chamber, and from time to time a guest speaker. All tourism-based members and partners are welcome. All sessions are held via ZOOM, and advance RSVP is not required. Coffee break, snacking and /or brown-bag lunches during zoom are encouraged.
Zoom link:
Meeting ID: 874 4108 3852
Passcode: 896020
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Meet Abby Lane
Chamber welcomes new Events and Membership-Engagment Manager
Abby Lane has joined the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce as the Events and Membership-Engagement Manager. She will be responsible for planning and executing Chamber events, as well as managing membership and engagement.
Lane comes to the Chamber from The Arc of Chemung-Schuyler, where she worked for two years as gallery coordinator for Franklin Street Gallery, as well as events coordinator for the public relations team. Lane has lived in a number of iconic locations throughout New York state, including Cooperstown and the Long Island town of Montauk. She has family ties to Watkins Glen and is happy to have made it her new home.
“I am excited to start this new chapter with the Watkins Glen Chamber of Commerce and look forward to using my knowledge and love of the area in this role,” Lane said. “I approach any task with openness, humor, and positivity and I can’t wait to get to know you all!”
You can reach Abby at Abby@WatkinsGlenChamber.com.
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Enjoy a 'Return on (Your) Involvement'
— join a Chamber committee!
The Chamber has created committees for members to work collaboratively on efforts that fit their personal and professional goals and needs. The new program is called “ROI – Return on (Your) Involvement." Learn more at ExploreWatkinsGlen.com/chamber-members/committees. To join a committee, please email Executive Director Michael Hardy at Michael@WatkinsGlenChamber.com.
Events Committee
Winter Gala Chair: Michel Ray, Visions FCU
Golf Tournament Chair: Stephen Klemann, SK
Board Liaison: Position Open
Next Meeting: Thursday, Feb. 18 at 3 p.m. via ZOOM
Marketing Committee
Committee Chair: Position Open
Board Liaison: Brittany Gibson, Seneca Lake Wine Trail
Next Meeting: Tuesday, March 2 at 3:30 p.m. via ZOOM
Tourism Task Force
Committee Chair: Carmella Hoffman, Sunset View Creamery
Board Liaison, Kerry Keller, Glenora Wine Cellars
Next Meeting: Tuesday, March 9 at 8:30 a.m. via ZOOM
Ambassador Committee
Committee Chair and Board Liaison: Positions Open
Next Meeting: Wednesday, March 10 at Noon via ZOOM
Membership Committee
Committee Chair: Dena Carrigan, Chemung Canal Trust Co.
Board Liaison: Michele Ray, Visions FCU
Next Meeting: Thursday, March 11 at 8:30 a.m. via ZOOM
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Hints from Hardy
Business and hospitality hints
from Michael Hardy,
Executive Director,
Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce
HINT 1
QR codes are back!
Businesses benefit from technology during pandemic
Are you familiar with QR codes? You may use them as a consumer, but are you using them for your business or organization? QR codes emerged two decades ago, and early adopters hovered smartphones over a printed code, to be directed digitally to desired information.
Now in the midst of COVID, QR codes have made a resurgence in popularity, as businesses try to be as contactless as possible. Fortunately, the re-emergence comes with advanced technology.
I remember almost 20 years ago the talk of these amazing graphics that could link people with products and services, even when a shop was closed, as long as the prospective customer could scan the QR code through a window or doorway. It is much easier now as most smartphones have an embedded reader and there is no need to use a special app.
My friends Sally Berry and Kasie Smith of Groups Today think the use of QR codes is worth exploring, and so do I. It is a great way to move merchandise and sell, promote, and brand your wares and services, especially during the pandemic. Recently I used my phone to access a menu by scanning a QR code strategically placed on a restaurant bar. There was no need for me to handle a much-touched menu and one less item for restaurant staff to have to disinfect. Pretty clever, right?
QR is short for “quick response” and the sky’s the limit regarding what information a QR code can store — from contact info and calendar data to website content.
HINT 2
Craft distilling generates billions of dollars
Be proud as punch as to the success
of NYS/Finger Lakes spirits, vino, and brews
Our region’s fairly young craft-distilling businesses are brewing up some good fortune. Last week nyup.com shared reports of a study that revealed the state’s distilling industry is generating billions of dollars.
These economic contributions may be known in certain circles, but perhaps not by all of us here in Schuyler County and Finger Lakes Wine Country. I, personally, would like to unofficially call our region Finger Lakes WOW Country, after hearing, seeing, and yes “sampling,” so many of the great beverages (most of “the adult variety”) in my first six months as your Chamber’s executive director. The makers, servers, teams, and tasters of these brews, spirits, and wines give us all many, MANY reasons to be proud of the dedication to quality, quantity, and innovation so prevalent here.
This is timely information, in fact, as we head into next week’s Wine and Craft Beverage Summit on Wednesday and Thursday, Feb 24 and 25. Participation is free! Please find details about the summit in this newsletter and at WatkinsGlenChamber.com
Click here to read the nyup.com article and learn more about growing numbers of beverage producers. It is awe-inspiring on so many levels and we should be proud of our fellow members. Promote, share, sample, enjoy – repeat!
Also, a shout out to Glenn Clark for sharing this article in his “Crafting a Brand” blog. We thank him for regularly reporting on the positive economic impact the state’s products, services, and certainly jobs that the distilleries, breweries, and wineries create.
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Advertise in the Chamber's newsletters |
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Rockwell Museum
announces annual theme: "Environments Examined"
The Rockwell Museum has announced its annual theme — “Environments Examined” — which investigates the myriad of ways artists engage with, connect to, or interrupt natural, built, and social environments
Current Exhibitions
Now Through May 9
Now through May 31
Now through January 2022
Lecture Series:
“Reclaiming Space in the Built Environment”
A virtual lecture from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. with Julia Weatherspoon, Architectural Designer.
Free and open to the public. Register to receive the Zoom link.
Learn more at https://rockwellmuseum.org/blog/environments-examined/
(Photo credit/top image: Romare Bearden, The Conversation, 1979. Lithograph on paper. Clara S. Peck Fund)
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Wine-and-cheese virtual tasting Friday, Feb. 26
Hosted by Red Newt
and Lively Run host
Assistant Winemaker Meagz Goodwin of Red Newt Cellars and Pete Messmer, co-owner of Lively Run Goat Dairy, will host a wine-and-cheese pairing virtual tasting on Friday, Feb. 26 at 5:30 p.m., featuring four selected pairings.
Join an evening where winemakers and cheesemakers taste and talk about wine and cheese, and why they go together so well, as well as the creative process behind the making of their products. If you're interested in tasting along, simply visit www.livelyrun.com to order your cheese. Order your Red Newt Cellars Tadpole Pack here. Use Promo Code: GOAT to get the special shipping pricing. You'll receive four 4 oz portions of cheese and four 6 oz portions of wine. Please note: The wine and cheese are sold separately, so be sure to order both.
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Better Business Bureau
hosts free webinars
The Better Business Bureau of Upstate New York is hosting webinars this month. Register by clicking below. Even if you cannot attend live at the time noted, registering will ensure your access to the webinar’s recording.
“Three Things Employers Need to Know
about COVID-19 and the Workplace in 2021”
Wednesday, Feb. 17 from 9 to 10 a.m.
Join Better Business Bureau as we welcome Joseph Brown, an attorney with Hurwitz and Fine (A BBB Accredited Business) specializing in employment and labor law, as he outlines changes to New York State's sick leave, vaccines, and COVID-19 policies and your employees.
“Make Your Website Work for You”
Wednesday, Feb. 24 from 1 to 2:15 p.m.
During this webinar, we will discuss how to create a search-friendly website that drives user action and supports their goals. Whether launching a new website or sprucing up an old one, this workshop will help.
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Member News & Collaborations |
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WGI's Michael Printup shares excitement for 2021 season
in Star-Gazette interview
With all of our eyes focused on post-pandemic times, when travel and tourism will be back in full swing, it was uplifting to read The Star-Gazette interview with Michael Printup on Feb. 12, and to feel his excitement for summer 2021.
“Our schedule is just jam packed this year,” said Printup, president of Watkins Glen International, who noted one 2021 highlight is hosting Historic Formula during sthe ame weekend as the 25th anniversary celebration of the Finger Wine Festival, July 9 to 11.
“And when you jump even further into the NASCAR schedule, that weekend, how could it be any better? ARCA on Friday, Truck Series Saturday early afternoon, Xfinity Saturday afternoon and then Cup Series on Sunday. You’ve got four major series all coming to Watkins Glen. I couldn’t be more excited to have that and I know the fans have been really rooting for that schedule for a long time.”
WGI's Opening Weekend, a fundraiser for its charitable foundation, is set for April 10 and 11. Racing kicks off May 21-23 with the Ferrari Challenge North America.
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Christian Eckes racing at WGI
during NASCAR Truck Series
Watkins Glen is on the NASCAR Truck Series schedule for the first time in 21 years. Christian Eckes has announced he will be racing at the Glen the weekend of Aug. 7.
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Hawk Meadow Farm named to Top 10 Small Batch
Maple Syrup Producers by USA Today readers
Maple syrup season almost upon us, and that's another reason to celebrate Hawk Meadow Farm in Trumansburg. The fist reason is Hawk Meadow being named one of "10 Small Batch Maple Syrup Producers You Need to Try" by readers of USA Today (check out the article here).
Hawk Meadow taps their trees by hand and collects the sap the old-fashioned way, with buckets! And the long, slow boil is done over a wood fire in its sugaring shack. It takes 40 gallons of sap to make 1 gallon of maple syrup — syrup that is full of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Here's what USA Today had to say about Hawk Meadow: "This little farm on the edge of the Finger Lakes National Forest ... produces their own small-batch maple syrup. They use the traditional method of wood-firing their syrup, which cooks it while adding a caramelized, subtly smoked flavor. Everything is sustainably produced, utilizing agricultural practices that work with nature."
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IMRRC’s sweepstakes are live!
Win a 2021 Corvette
Stingray Convertible
Make a donation today to support International Motor Racing Research Center (IMRRC) and you’ll be automatically entered into a sweepstakes drawing for a Corvette. All donations support the IMRRC, which collects, shares and preserves the history of motorsports.
This year’s sweepstakes' vehicle is a Red Mist Metallic 2021 Corvette Stingray Convertible with the Z51 performance package. The car is equipped with a 495-hp 6.2L LT2 V8 engine and 8-speed transmission.
The 2021 sweepstake drawing will be held Dec. 21. The winner will enjoy a complimentary stay at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel plus receive two 2022 memberships to the Jack Daniels Club at Watkins Glen International and take part in a two-day driving school in Las Vegas. Click here to learn more or make a donation.
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Newsletter from the Schuyler County Office for the Aging
Learn about resources for caregivers of elderly relatives and supporting programs such as Meals on Wheels.
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Apply for Community Foundation grants
The Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes has opened its grant cycle and is accepting applications. Below are two grant opportunities, but more grants are available.
Deadline: March 1
Grants that help girls and women achieve economic self-sufficiency through education, health, career, and life skills.
Deadline: April 3
Grants for non-profit organizations with programs supporting youth activities and recreational programs for the youth of Schuyler County.
Click here for more information about all available grants, plus applications and guidelines.
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Keeping a positive attitude in the workplace
Several factors may contribute to unhappiness at work, from a difficult supervisor to a lack of challenge or growth.
The latest blog from Clinical Associates of the Southern Tier shares tips for developing a more positive attitude at work.
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Do you provide EAP services?
Please note, if your organization or business also offers EAP services, and you are a WGACC member, please reach out so we can include your news as well!
If you wish for your organization's information to be shared in the Chamber's weekly e-news, please contact us at Info@WatkinsGlenChamber.com.
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Excellus accepting grant applications for 2021 Community Health Awards
The application period is now open for the spring 2021 Excellus BlueCross BlueShield Community Health Awards, which provide one-time grants up to $5,000 to winning applicants.
Applicants must be charitable organizations located in a participating region. Excellus encourages applications from those who use new and innovative ways to improve health. Proposals should define clear goals for improving the health or health care of a specific population in the community. Proposals may focus on: addressing the social determinants of health; reducing health disparities; reducing the incidence of specific diseases; assisting our communities in dealing with COVID-19; and/or supporting diversity equity and inclusion efforts.
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New app for Southern FLX Craft Beverage Trail
Craft Your Adventure is a self-guided beverage trail celebrating the exceptional craftsmanship found in each glass and growler paired with the amazing outdoor recreation opportunities available throughout the scenic Southern Finger Lakes.
The Craft Your Adventure app has the information to help you navigate your way through breweries, distilleries, cideries, and outdoor adventures. You can also earn rewards for visiting our beverage trail tasting rooms by checking in through our passport. We invite you to "Craft Your Adventure" by sipping your way through some amazing brews, hard ciders, and spirits as you explore the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes region.
Learn more at https://www.corningfingerlakes.com/craft-your-adventure/app/
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Glenora Wine Cellars offers winter packages through April
Choose from a variety of experiences at Glenora Wine Cellars to make your stay in the Finger Lakes memorable. Among the experiences are several overnight packages.
Glenora has 30 spacious guest rooms offering lake views with private patio or deck. Amenities include spa services and a fine-dining restaurant onsite.
For reservations or to check availability, call (800) 243-5513 or visit the Glenora website to explore the overnight packages.
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THIS SPACE RESERVED FOR LODGING MEMBERS
Any and all lodging members are welcome to share their winter specials
with the Chamber, to help spread the word here in our e-news
and on our social media platforms and website. Shoot us a note, please.
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Closing time at NYS restaurants and bars
now extended to 11 p.m.
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Governor Andrew Cuomo announced last week restaurant and bar closing time is extended to 11 p.m statewide, beginning Feb. 14. Given the continued decline in hospitalization and infection rates throughout New York, closing times for restaurants and bars has been extended 1 hour beyond the previous time of 10 p.m.
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Schuyler County expands vaccine eligibility |
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NYS budget presentation is now online |
Last week the Watkins Glen Area Chamber of Commerce partnered with state officials, along with Commerce Chenango, to present an overview of the Fiscal Year 2022 NYS Executive Budget.
We thank Richard Bell, Commissioner of Agriculture & Markets, for his presentation during the Feb. 12 webinar. We also thank Empire State Development for assistance coordinating the live webinar.
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New York Forward Loan Fund
hosts small-business webinar on Feb. 18
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New York Forward Loan Fund (NYFLF) is a new economic recovery loan program aimed at supporting New York State small businesses, nonprofits, and small landlords. NYFLF is providing working capital loans so that small businesses, nonprofits and small landlords have access to credit as they reopen.
NYSFLF is hosting a webinar focused on small business at 1 p.m. Feb. 18. The 45-minute webinar will focus on the loan program — its scope, use, eligibility and how to apply.
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Fire Academy in Montour Falls
welcomes 39 new firefighters
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Governor Andrew Cuomo announced on Feb. 12 that 39 firefighters from 16 fire departments across the state are in Montour Falls undergoing an 11-week rigorous training program at the State Academy of Fire Science.
Upon successful completion of the program, these first responders will achieve national certification and work as career firefighters in their respective fire departments. The firefighters must completed 500 hour so training prior to graduating on May 10.
"In every emergency where duty calls, our firefighters selflessly risk their lives to keep us safe, and I congratulate these 39 individuals who plan to devote themselves to this critical public service," Governor Cuomo said. "Upon graduating from the Academy of Fire Science, firefighters are equipped with the most up-to-date skills and knowledge to perform their job - something we've all learned to appreciate in the unprecedented times we live in."
In order to resume in-person training at the Academy during the pandemic, state fire officials have implemented several comprehensive health and safety measures to protect recruits as they complete their training.
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Reaching and serving travelers with accessibility needs
I Love NY presents webinar Wednesday, March 3
It has been estimated that people with disabilities and accessibility needs spend more $58 billion on travel. To help you tap into this valuable market, I LOVE NY will present a webinar titled, “Accessible NY: Reaching New Audiences," from 2 to 3 p.m March 3. This is the first in a series of new I LOVE NY industry programming.
The webinar will feature findings of a 2020 nationwide study on the travel patterns and spending of American adults with disabilities; tips on making your destination even more friendly to travelers with accessibility needs; and advice for learning how to collect accurate accessibility information in order to effectively market to travelers with accessibility needs.
Please RSVP by March 1 by writing or calling David Turley at I Love NY at David.Turley@esd.ny.gov or (212) 803-3256.
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NYers4NY initiative will encourage New Yorkers
to choose travel within NY state
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PROMOTE YOUR NEWS AND EVENTS
Add to your happenings to the Public Events Calendar on our website!
Add your event quickly, easily, and at no cost. Click here for the submission page.
SHARE YOUR NEWS — VIA CHAMBER SOCIAL MEDIA & ENEWS
We will gladly feature your upcoming events and news on our social media channels and in our newsletter.
Contact Michael at (585) 721-6032 or send him your news
CONNECT WITH THE CHAMBER TEAM
Office Phone: (607) 535-4300
Katherine Jack, Visitor Center and Office Administrator email
Abby Lane, Events and Membership-Engagement Manager email
Karen Dodson, Part-Time/Contract Membership email
Michael Hardy, Executive Director email and (585) 721-6032 (cell)
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