Dear Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce Members,
We hope you are enjoying the magic of fall around Greater Cape Ann. September proved to cap off a strong economic season in our region, particularly for the tourism sector. We will host our Summer Season in Review in partnership with Discover Gloucester at Gloucester Stage on November 12th. This event offers a chance to assess tourism’s economic impact, share economic trends, conduct roundtable discussions, and network with peers. Attendees can develop strategies for the future of our tourist industry.
The Chamber continues to share the economic impact of tourism and work with local government officials to reinvest in our community infrastructure.
As we roll into October—a month many consider to be the most beautiful in our region—we hit the ground running with our College and Career Fair at Ipswich High School. The GCACC Business Education Collaborative is partnering with Ipswich Public Schools to host the event at Ipswich High School on Tuesday, October 1st, from 6:00–7:30 p.m.
Hosting the event in October allows students, colleges, and local employers to engage earlier in the school year. Additionally, the Chamber’s Business Education Collaborative will focus on internship, apprenticeship, and summer job and career initiatives for the remainder of the school year. If you or your organization is interested in participating in the Career and College Exploration, Skill Building, or Social Emotional Learning Subcommittees, please reach out to Steve Buckley, CEO of the Chamber, for more information.
The Chamber team continues to be active in our advocacy efforts in the community. We are working with the Town of Rockport to maintain the Cultural District Designation with MCC, and with Essex businesses and the Town of Essex to streamline permitting processes, particularly the existing entertainment policy. We’ll be holding a zoning forum on Wednesday, October 23rd, with businesses and Essex Town Officials and actively working with the Essex Economic Development Committee to enhance collaboration and participation with local businesses.
We are also facilitating meetings with local nonprofits, businesses, and residents in Gloucester to address challenges and work toward effective solutions.
October is an exciting time for the Chamber and our communities. Ipswich Illuminations is returning on October 11-13th and October 25-26th. We are thrilled to bring back Rockport Harvest Fest on October 19th. This cherished event is a collaboration between the Town of Rockport and the business community. The following week, we are excited to present the 39th Annual Essex Clamfest, including a Chowder Competition featuring many local favorite restaurants.
Don’t miss the opportunity to purchase one of only 500 tickets for our annual $25,000 raffle! You could win the $10,000 grand prize or other cash prizes.
Please check out the Chamber’s Events Calendars for the many cool happenings around Greater Cape Ann:
As always, we encourage you to support our local businesses, attend our fantastic events, and invest in our vibrant arts and creative economy. Your participation keeps Greater Cape Ann thriving!
Happy October!
Karen Ristuben, President, GCACC Board of Directors
Steve Buckley, CEO Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce
