It seems like we were just getting ready for Santa, and now it’s March. There has been a lot less snow than usual – and many more spring-like days. And that means more folks out and about, enjoying the natural beauty of Cape Ann.
No matter what the weather, the Chamber was busy throughout February, with several well-attended and fun networking events. There was a Business After Hours at C.K. Pearl in Essex, with a wonderful appetizer spread; a record-breaking Businesswomen’s Mixer that attracted well over 100 leading ladies, including the Beverly Chamber, for the 5th annual gathering at “the Nest;” and a lively and informative Contractors event at Cape Ann Lanes Brew Pub.
This was a great warm-up for March, which will feature more than a dozen events, including important legislative and education forums and one of the biggest Chamber happenings of the year. The month begins with our annual Economic Outlook Breakfast on March 5, featuring Jim Brett, former State Senator and current President of the New England Council. This is followed closely by our sold-out Winter Birding excursion to Stellwagen Bank on March 7. Next up is our March 11 Cape Ann Career and College Fair – now in its 6th year –which will feature 75 colleges and more than 60 business representatives, and then onto our March Business After Hours at Backyards Growers, at their new location off Main Street. On March 18, the crowds come looking for a big win at our landmark Irish Sweepstakes Raffle, where we’ll give away $20,000 in cash prizes – including a top prize of $10,000! And that’s not all – March also includes our Q1 Community Division Meetings, the Cape Ann Caucus, and several planned Ribbon Cuttings. That’s a very busy month!
We covered all of this and more in our March video update…
With these events, the Chamber offers many ways for you to make connections – and with more than a dozen working committees, you can also make a difference in the community. Please keep in mind that we help you / our members – with free promotional social media opportunities and our websites, a weekly e-newsletter and monthly e-magazine, and many advertising and sponsorships opportunities. USE US – we are here for you!
Another important community initiative taking place shortly is the Cape Ann Community Foundation’s release of its non-profit and schools Grant Applications, as funded by the Cape Ann License Plate revenues. These funds are applied toward the priorities of promoting the region, strengthening Cape Ann’s economy and training. Please recall that the Cape Ann License Plates are easily available online at the official Registry of Motor Vehicles site – click the below link, and follow the instructions to scroll to the Cape Ann Plate – they will be delivered to you in a few days – no trip to the registry required!
Additional information on the plate can be found at lovecapeann.com.
March is a fantastic example of the many ways the Chamber and Cape Ann’s vibrant businesses play an important role in what makes this area a special place to live, work and play.
Together we are making great things happen, building on our strong heritage to create a bright future – Be A Part Of It!