April 21, 2008
Will Your Voice Be Heard?
Online registration is available for the 2008 New York Day in Washington on May 14-15, 2008. Please check the CANYS events page for any updates. April 23 is the absolute last day to make your hotel reservations under the Business Council block of rooms. Reserve your room today.
Once you have registered, please remember to follow up with your Representative and encourage their participation at the Legislative Reception and Congressional Breakfast.
State Budget Roundup
Andrew Rudnick, President and CEO of the Buffalo Niagara Partnership, comments on aspects of the state budget in a April 15 Buffalo News op-ed and Times Union article. Mr. Rudnick calls upon the Governor and Legislature to pass true Wicks Law reform, reform brownfields laws and adopt new policies to make energy more affordable.
Catherine Glover, president and CEO for the Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce also voiced her concern that recent changes in the Wicks Law will have little impact because the threshold for upstate remains too low.
And on Friday, April 11, Sandra Parker, President and CEO of the Rochester Business Alliance appeared on the Fred Dicker Show to discuss the Wicks Law and other budget actions taken.
In the April 2008 Action newsletter, the Mohawk Valley Chamber of Commerce highlights its support for true budget reform in New York and its opposition to pay increases for state lawmakers. The Chamber will also begin screening candidates for upcoming local elections in Assembly, Senate and Congressional races.
The Greater Syracuse Chamber of Commerce also stresses the importance of budget reform, calling for a cut in spending, eliminating unnecessary positions and controlling the cost of state government.
It's not all bad news! Several chambers did receive funding in this year's budget, including the Greater Olean Chamber of Commerce, Hornell Chamber of Commerce and the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce who will each receive $96,000 to assist regional employers in providing occupational, on-the-job training for their full time employees. Other chambers receiving funding in the state budget include the Cayuga County Chamber of Commerce, Tri-State Chamber of Commerce and the Niagara USA Chamber, just to name a few.
Making News....
Congratulations to Charles North, Chief Executive and President of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce who was recently inducted as an honorary member to the Dutchess Community College Delta Zeta Chapter of Alpha Beta Gamma. Mr. North is recognized for his longstanding support of the community college and its mission to educate business student.
Congratulations as well to the Schoharie Chamber of Commerce, Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce, and Plattsburgh North Country Chamber of Commerce on receiving a grant award from the New York State Department of Labor to broker and manager paid internship opportunities.
The St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce recently announced the appointment of Patricia (Pat) McKeown as its new Executive Director.
The Albany-Colonie Chamber of Commerce is seeking applicants interested in serving as President & CEO. The Chamber serves more than 2,800 business members. Applications will be accepted until Friday, May 16. For a list of qualifications, visit Jorgenson Consulting or submit a confidential resume.
Going Global
The Orchard Park Chamber of Commerce is organizing a member trip to China. The trip provides access for participants to investigate business opportunities in China and to meet with government officials and local business leaders.
ESD Seeks to "Partner" with Chambers
Brian Sampson, Upstate Director for Business Outreach, Empire State Development, joined in the April 18, "All Chambers" telephone conference call. Brian shared a powerpoint presentation asking Chambers to provide opportunities for ESD to meet with members and arrange focus groups with businesses in an effort to share information and identify strengths and weaknesses in how ESD services can help rebuild New York. Downstate members may contact Darren Bloch, Vice President of External Affairs, Empire State Development.
Please let us know of future topics or speakers that may be of interest to you.
The next "All Chambers" conference call is scheduled for May 16, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. The State Consumer Protection Board will be presenting on business specific issues and responsibilities.
Scholarship Opportunity for CANYS members!
The 2008 U.S. Chamber of Commerce Eastern Regional Conference is June 11-13 in Orlando Florida. For more information or to register, visit the U.S. Chamber of Commerce website or apply directly for scholarships that may be available through the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
Win Federal Contracts!
The U.S. Small Business Administration has launched a free online course: Business Opportunities: A Guide to Winning Federal Contracts. The web-based course is available at the SBA's website.
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