September CACC Update from Susan & Ken
Wow, what a wet and wild summer – where did it go?! Rain was the name of the game for many of our weekends, with Tropical Storm Henri capping it off. The cooler air is rolling in, the humidity is rolling out, and Summer 2021 on Cape Ann is fast fading as fond memories. Although it was a slow and wet start in June and into July, we still had lots of beautiful weather, and our business community fared well, hampered slightly by a lack of workers.
With the recent completion of the Ipswich Chamber merger, we are thrilled to now be formally designated the Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce. We want to thank the entire Ipswich Chamber Board for their fantastic partnership as we worked together to enable this wonderful opportunity for both our Cape Ann Chamber and Ipswich Members. There are several main benefits from this merger, including:
1) the expansion of business connections and potential customers, leveraging a large neighboring community;
2) increasing the strength and influence of our Chamber and enabling us to represent and advocate for the priorities of a larger constituency more effectively. These priorities range from local business operating challenges including worker shortages, housing, transportation, health and safety, maritime and education, to climate change and coastal resiliency;
3) allowing us to add a new staff position that will support members in all communities.
We look forward to working with all Ipswich businesses, as well as community and government leaders.
We are excited to present the last Summer Block Party this Friday, September 3, coinciding with the culminating summertime event, Schooner Festival weekend – an iconic highlight for the region.
Then it is into Fall we go. This September is unique as we are still dealing with impacts of the pandemic. We are planning our Small Business Week, normally in June, for the week of September 19 – 24, to include Ipswich for the first time. Our next round of events begin in early October with our BIG $25K Game – someone is going to win $10,000; with 12 chances to win at least $500, and only 500 tickets sold, these are the best odds on the North Shore. Don’t delay; contact the Chamber right now to get your tickets! October 11 is our very popular Businesswomen’s Luncheon, taking place at the Beauport Hotel and featuring Karen Hanson….maybe – tbd
Unfortunately, we’ve had to cancel this year’s Essex Clamfest due to site work near Memorial Park and our clam chowder competitors are challenged with staff shortages. However, Cape Ann Plein Air (CAPA) 2021, now in its fifth year, is full steam ahead the week of October 3 – 11. Thirty five artists from around the country (including several locals) have been juried-in to paint our incredibly beautiful region…much more on that next month. And yes, the Holiday season is not far away, as we have already kicked-off planning for Santa’s arrival on Cape Ann, with associated fun community festivities and important business / economic events including Shop Small Saturday.
More on our priorities of Regional Promotion, Strengthening Our Businesses, and Supporting Our Community. We are preparing to start our 2021 publications cycle (see the new advertising contracts herein) and the Fall wrap-up / close-down of our summer visitation services. We are also planning for our Fall Cape Ann Caucus where we meet with all local and state elected officials and public safety, education and business leaders to discuss issues and opportunities effecting our region; and for the kick-off of our Business Education Collaborative with our annual Focus on Education Roundtable, again bringing together all state and local elected officials and education and business leaders to specifically progress regional education priorities.
Don’t forget that all Cape Ann Plates are easily available online on the Registry of Motor Vehicles site. Just click the following link and follow the instructions or order your Cape Ann plate, and your plates will be delivered to you in a few days – no trip to the Registry required! Cape Ann License Plate. It is only $40 every other year, and our Community Foundation has granted more than $70,000 to local non-profits and schools.
Greater Cape Ann’s vibrant business community plays 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 imagine and create a bright future.
