Message from the Chairman

By Dennis Elsenbeck, Vice President of Business Services, National Grid

As I begin my second term as Chairman of the Board of the Amherst Chamber of Commerce, I continue to be amazed by the engagement of our membership.  The commitment I see from the members of the Board of Directors and Officers on a monthly basis is a testimonial to the value of our organization to the community and region.  But the passion and involvement of committee members, ProNet participants, and the individuals representing firms of all sizes who attend our events and Business After Hours exemplifies the true worth of the Chamber to our members.

In December, I was one of over 180 business people who attended the Holiday Business After Hours hosted by Dave and Busters and the Eastern Hills Mall.  People were ‘working the room' while enjoying complimentary food and beverages.  I am sure numerous deals were made and contacts expanded in that two hour time frame.  This event was a great finale for a great year and provides me with high expectations for the year ahead.

In January we installed our 2008 Board of Directors and unveiled our new logo and tagline as well as distributed the program of Work at our Annual Luncheon.  This new look will better reflect the organization's energy, our commitment to our members, and our dedication to being a fluid organization that can readjust to meet the ever changing needs of our constituents.  We are expanding our councils - both in size and scope.  Our Small Business Council is being renamed the Business Resource Council to better reflect their scope of work.  If you are interested in hearing more about this opportunity call Victoria Sturman at the Chamber, 632-6905.

Our Advocacy Council, always one of our strongest, has a great program plan for 2008.  In addition to our perennial Legislative Agenda, they are planning a Speakers Series, featuring public officials from all levels of government.  Further, a buddy system with members of our Amherst Town Board is being mobilized.  We will continue to strengthen our representation of your interests.

Our Benefit Solutions Division has been a home run for our Chamber and for our members.  Over 1000 employees are already receiving health insurance administered by our Insurance Brokerage.  We have been able to customize plans for many of our firms, which saved them money compared with the Chamber group plans they were enrolled in.  We have also saved them the quarterly service fee.  Benefit Solutions, under the direction of Amy Christieson, is quickly being recognized as a knowledgeable resource for firms interested in Health Savings Accounts.  Over 900 individuals attended meetings in the Chamber offices in December to learn more about their health insurance options and many signed up for Health Savings Accounts.  Call Amy Christieson at 250-0991 for more information.

The Amherst Chamber of Commerce has built a strong foundation and continues to flourish.  We have responded to your feedback, reinvested in programs and services, and look forward to a bright and vibrant future.  And, as in the past, we look forward to working with you to meet our mutual goals.