March 21, 2008
New York Day in Washington
May 14-15, 2008
The Chamber Alliance of New York State, with the generous support and “muscle” of the Greater Syracuse and Plattsburgh-North Country Chambers, has planned a power-packed lobbying trip to Washington, DC. Chambers and business leaders from across the state will participate in the annual New York Day in Washington.
This year’s event will include an informative pre-reception seminar with Washington insiders who will provide perspective on what a new administration and Congress may mean to your members' agenda. The event provides valuable opportunities for you to meet with your legislative representatives in Washington and to support important public policies and issues that affect business and economic growth in New York State.
Register online to participate in the 2008 New York Day in Washington.
Accommodations are available at the Westin Washington DC Center. Hotel reservations and payment must be made on your own no later than April 21, 2008. Reserve your room online or call 202-429-1700 and ask for the Business Council of New York State room block.
Has your Chamber’s voice been heard?
The Adirondack Regional Chamber, Buffalo Niagara Partnership and Chautauqua County Chamber are included among a coalition of chambers and business leaders that have expressed opposition to proposed taxes in the Governor’s budget that will lead to higher insurance costs for businesses across the state. In a mutual effort, this coalition is running an ad campaign urging legislative leaders to oppose increased health coverage taxes.
Chambers from around the state are also joining in opposition to inclusion of any prevailing or living wage requirements in IDA reform legislation. The Rochester Business Alliance, Business Council of Westchester, Rockland Business Association and the Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce added their voices of opposition during their recent Albany legislative lobby days. Members are encouraged to weigh in with their legislative leaders to express their concern about the negative impact a prevailing wage requirement will have on regional economic development efforts. The Business Council memo in opposition to Assembly Bill 8703.
Has your Chamber taken a position on these or other issues? Tell us what you think.
What’s happening at the State Capitol…and beyond
New York is facing many challenges this year so it is imperative that the business community has a strong, consistent message to send to our legislative leaders on important issues. Reducing spending, preventing new taxes, and opposing increased health care taxes all have a direct impact on working families and the business climate in New York State. Keep your members informed on how the Business Council is working for you and your members on these and other important issues. Visit the Business Council for the latest news and legislative updates.
Mark your calendars
The 2008 US Chamber of Commerce Eastern Regional Conference is scheduled for June 11-13, 2008 at the Portofino Bay Hotel in Orlando, Florida. For more information or to register, visit the US Chamber of Commerce website.
Business Council News
Cathy Jimenez has joined the Business Council of New York State staff, serving as CANYS administrator. Cathy has an in-depth background in board management and support and will be working closely with the Business Council to ensure that your chamber receives up to date information necessary to support the valuable services you provide to your members.
Members in the News
The Schuyler County Chamber of Commerce has announced that Max Neal will serve as President of the Chamber of Commerce. Max is a former Tourism Director and Chamber President for the Schuyler Chamber.
Congratulations to Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce member Laurie Linn, President of Communiqué Design & Marketing, Inc., on being named “Woman of the Year” in Advertising and Marketing by the National Association of Professional and Executive Women. Only one woman from each industry is selected from thousands of women in their field to represent their industry in the “Woman of Excellence” Registry.
Has your Chamber been in the news? Tell us about it.
