May 02, 2008
New York Day in Washington is Fast Approaching!
Over 75 individuals representing more than 17 chambers of commerce have registered for the 2008 New York Day in Washington on May 14-15. The tremendous participation of chambers from all corners of New York demonstrates to our elected officials that we are united and committed to moving forward with our legislative priorities to improve the business climate in the state.
Online registration is still available for the 2008 New York Day in Washington. Although the hotel block at the Westin Washington is now closed, Cathy can assist you in finding accommodations in Washington.
The Staten Island Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for their trip to Washington by sending a letter in support of HR5906, which provides tax relief and financial incentives for small business owners that are creating jobs.
If you have not done so already, please remember to follow up with your Representatives and encourage their participation at the Legislative Reception and Congressional Breakfast.
Property Tax Burdens: Too High?
At an April 23 meeting of the Real Property Tax Commission, The Business Council of New York State stressed the importance of property tax relief for business as an essential component of reform. The Council's testimony offers a plan for property-tax reform that includes both a cap in the growth of STAR and some mandate relief for localities.
Matt Crosson of the Long Island Association suggests that a shortage of young, talented professionals may be one of the most significant challenges facing New York in the future. A reduction of the property tax burden may have long-term risks that adversely affect education. A strong education system can spark the "creativity and innovate thinking" that businesses seek in young professionals.
I Live New York
The Tompkins County Chamber of Commerce is committed to helping young professionals connect to events and issues in the local community by providing opportunities in the areas of professional development, personal enrichment, and civic leadership. The belief is the more connected a person is to their community, the less likely they will be to move out of the area.
On May 9 the Ulster County Chamber of Commerce will host a Golf Scholarship Tournament to raise fund for Ulster County students planning to attend SUNY Ulster or SUNY New Paltz. The program was launched last May. The goal is to award $5,000 in scholarships each year to high school students seeking to realize their career goals in Ulster County.
Healthy Workplace Initiative
The Adirondack Regional Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Glens Falls Hospital and the Family YMCA of Glens Falls, has created a "Healthy Workplace" awards program. The program publicly recognizes local employers for creating conditions for fitness and for enhancing their capacity to influence health and fitness. The award will raise community awareness of the value of health and safety promotion in the workplace. For further information, contact Todd Shimkus.
Recognizing the Importance of Going Global
The Mohawk Valley Chamber of Commerce has partnered with the Greater Syracuse Chamber of Commerce to offer a 9-day trip to China in November to meet with business leaders and learn about China's economic reforms.
The Orchard Park Chamber of Commerce is finalizing the agenda for its 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.
Scholarship Opportunity for CANYS members!
CANYS has the opportunity to partner with the American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) and make available two (2) scholarships to our CANYS members to cover registration cost for the ACCE 2008 Convention: INNOVATE! July 30 - August 2 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. If you would like to be considered for a scholarship, please return the scholarship application no later than Friday, May 23, 2008 to Cathy Jimenez.
Congratulations to Larry Brinker, Greater Binghamton Chamber of Commerce, and Patrick Hyland, Staten Island Chamber of Commerce! Both received a scholarship from CANYS to assist with expenses to attend the 2008 U.S. Chamber of Commerce Eastern Regional Conference.
Chamber Recruitments
The Buffalo Niagara Partnership is seeking applicants for the position of Vice President for Government Affairs. Submit a confidential resume and cover letter to apply for this position.
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.
Mark Your Calendar
The 4th annual Quebec-New York Economic Summit is May 20 in Quebec City. The theme for this year's summit is the emerging "green economy" and opportunities for valuable partnerships between New York and Quebec. Click here for further details.
Please note: The May "All Chambers" conference call is cancelled as many chambers participating in the NY Day in Washington will just be returning. The next "All Chambers" conference call is scheduled for June 20, 2008 at 11:00 a.m. Please let us know of topics or speakers that you would like to hear from on the "All Chambers" call.
Please let us know if you would like to be added to or removed from the CANYS Connection newsletter distribution list.
