As we head toward the end of the year, I would like to express gratitude.
At the Chamber, we are particularly appreciative of the support we receive from our members. We welcomed more than 165 new members in 2022! With additional members as a part of the Chamber it enables us to continue expansion of benefits and hence value of what the organization provides.
That said, we reiterate our 16-year commitment to promoting the Think Local First campaign by sharing our well-branded Think Local First posters at every Ribbon Cutting, distributing window decals and continuously reminding the public to support local businesses all-year long and not just during the holiday season.
A very big thank you is due to our Corporate Sponsors for their continued support. They allow the Chamber to execute over 150 business and community events, such as seminars, Business After Hours, Contact Breakfasts, Hudson Valley’s Top 40 Under 40 Mover and Shaker Awards, Athena Awards, Golf Tournament, The Great Hudson Valley Scavenger Hunt, Gala, Celebrity Servers Dinner and others. Most importantly, we are grateful for their investment in providing important resources to the business community. These resources enable our businesses to improve on their products and services and grow our local economy.
We are proud of the work of The Chamber Foundation as they develop and grow leadership and workforce education programming in our community. Leadership Dutchess and Youth Leadership programs are currently underway, and Executive Leadership will be launching in January. I am grateful for the work of our professional staff and volunteers as they strive to develop the tools necessary to instill efficient and effective leadership skills.
I want to show appreciation to our all-volunteer Board of Directors and professional staff for continuing to move this organization forward in challenging times. We all know this has been a puzzling year for many, but with the help and support from all of you, your Chamber of Commerce remains a strong advocate for business, and we’ll continue to do what is necessary to make 2023 and beyond – a success for the business community.
Enjoy this holiday season and remember to please…Think Local First.