GCC Newsroom

SOUPED UP ON GUILDERLAND!!

2010-09-24T12:58:00.000-04:00

The 4th annual Souped Up on Guilderland event will take place on Saturday October 2, 11am-2pm at Altamont Orchards! Come sample soup from many of the area restaurants and vote on your favorite! We also have space for 10 vendor tables! For $50, vendors can give information and promote their services and products to over 500 people who attend Souped Up On Guilderland at Altamont Orchards. The event is a car show, soup cook off, farmers market and fall festival all in one great opportunity and family fun day! Admission into the soup tent is $5 per person. Also on hand will be a Haunted House, petting zoo, face painting and other family activities. Email or call 456-6611 for details or email info@guilderlandchamber.com.

Ladies Night Out-FREE Admission

2010-09-24T12:30:00.000-04:00

Ladies' Night Out is an event being coordinated by Guilderland Chamber of Commerce members. The event will take place on September 30th from 5:30pm-8pm. The goal is to offer a casual evening out for the women of Guilderland and the surrounding area to kick off Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Get advice from chiropractors, general practioners, massage therapists, financial planners, and more. Also enjoy a complimentary Glass of wine and finger foods. Drawings of baskets provided by vendors will occur throughout the evening. Best Western Sovereign Hotel, 1228 Western Ave. Admission is FREE. register here http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?llr=ixpgl7cab&et=1103714933701&s=0&e=001thMAgSIh5YWNKwSsTytIDCZ6MB9JyoHnulATTskJTqXeRj7lhcYUHQpzXKWlQDqhsRhHNz2-rvheuDeuu7f79C9nrmeEwGc2j_xEuvwEmqVYQNI6x7ztkzdnR5YeW5dWM62kDtZKtBc=

September is here!

2010-09-02T12:45:00.000-04:00

And things are picking up at the Chamber! Hopefully everyone is back (or almost back!) from summer vacations. We have noticed things are picking up alot more, and we are kicking off some new programs here! You may have heard about our new memebership tiers that went into effect in August. We came up with a way for our members to save more money throughout the year by giving HUGE discounts on events, sponsorships, low-cost advertising and more. There are a few different options, all saving a few hundred dollars. Want more information? Call us at 456-6611 or email info@guilderlandchamber.com.

We are also going to be implmenting a new sponsor program. As you may know, our chamber newsletter 'BusinessLine' goes out 5 times a year, this allows for 5 sponsors for each newsletter. You will be able to have your logo and business information in the newsletter that goes out to over 800 people as well as a column about who you are and what you do. Cost is $200 per newsletter.

Also, September is going to be a super busy month for the GCC!
On September 10th join us for our First Friday Business Breakfast with Steven Bouchey or Bouchey and Clarke benefits and Your News Now finance contributor as he gives us "The State of the Economy". Steven will give this hour long need to know information on the burning questions we all want to know. Is the economy better? Is it getting worse? What is going to happen, and what can we do to prepare? Presentation starts at 8am, with networking at 7:30am. Cost is $5, light breakfast included. GCC offices are located at 2050 Western Ave. in Star Plaza.

On September 16th we will be having our Business After Hours Mixer at Uno Chicago Grill! Come see why Uno's was voted America's Most Healthy Chain Restaurant in 2008 in addition to some great networking!
Cost is $10 for members, $15 for not-yet members. Uno's is located in Crossgates Mall next to Best Buy. The fun starts at 5:30pm!

Apple Fest is September 18th and 19th at Altamont Orchards, Come visit the Chamber Table! We will be there all weekend!!

LADIES NIGHT OUT! September 30th from 5-8pm. Location is the Best Western on Western Ave. For the ladies of the capital region only! Come see vendors who specialise in everything about health and wellness, both mental and physical, including clothing, physical fitness, jewelry, shopping, trips, dental health, financial planning, and more! Cost is FREE! Sponsored by CDPHP, Times Union, Guilderland Medical Imaging, CapitalCare Guilderland, GCC Women in Business.

Find out more about joining the Colonie Guilderland Rotary!! By Guest Blogger, Karl Muller

2010-08-18T10:58:00.003-04:00

If you’re looking for a way to give back to the community and help make the world a better place, then come to the “open house” of the Colonie-Guilderland Rotary Club on Wednesday, August 25 from 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm at Tesoro’s in 20 Mall (Western Ave. off Route 155). We’ll have short presentations from members about our current projects, such as scholarships for local high school students and Polio Plus, as well as discussions about what it means to be a Rotarian.

Best of all, we’re ordering appetizers! So we can get an accurate count, RSVP to Karl Muller at kmuller@creativepensionconsultants.com by Tuesday 8/24 (though you’re still invited if you don’t). Hope to see you there!

To learn more about Rotary in general, please visit www.rotary7190.org.

New Membership Options!!!!

2010-08-18T10:57:00.002-04:00

NEW from the GCC! Membership Tiers to add MORE value to your membership!

We are kicking off our brand new membership options! This is so you can get more bang for your buck! You can either renew at the regular member price and receive all the regular chamber membership perks, or you can upgrade to one of the three tiers below.

We realize now, more than ever, businesses are looking for ways to stretch every dollar. We wanted to make sure our members feel that their membership is worth it, and to let you enjoy all of the perks of membershp at a majorly discounted price.

Preferred Members: $150 more (a $325 value)

Inclue All Regular Chamber Membership Perks

PLUS:

One insert into one of the Chambers newsletters throughout the year ($100 value)

10 free business after hour mixer passes ($100 value)

5 free passes to First Friday Business Breakfasts ($25 value)

Free year long banner ad on website ($100) value

Presidents Club: $250 More (a $575 Value)

Includes All Regular Chamber Membership Perks

PLUS:

One insert into one of the Chambers newsletters throughout the year ($100 value),

10 free business after hour mixer passes ($100 value)

5 free passes to First Friday Business Breakfasts ($25 value)

Free year long banner ad on website ($100) value

1 First Friday Business Breakfast Sponsorship (say the welcome and have logo in email blast promoting event) $100 value

One month of email blast sponsorship ($50 value)

50% off any sized fix web ad on the Guilderland Chamber website,

Advertising bundle: $100 more (a $250 value)

FREE insert into the Chamber newsletter ($100 Value, just provide the copies)

FREE month long email blast sponsorship ($50 value)

FREE year long banner ad on website ($100 value)

Changes coming to the GCC

2010-07-20T09:41:00.000-04:00

There are some new changes coming to the Guilderland Chamber! Keep your eye out this August to see some new members options. Why you ask? Well, the ever changing economy we are trying our hardest to keep your membership low cost and you give you as many options as possible for every budget. We will also be holding a free member benefits breakfast on Friday July 30th at 8am at our offices. You can come and hear about some benefit options you may not know about.

Restaurant Week is at hand!

2010-07-02T08:39:00.000-04:00

Our favorite time of year is at hand! No, its not Christmas, it's restaurant week! What other time of year can you try multiple eateries without breaking the bank? Lots of yummy dishes will be prepared for a low price of $20.10 per person, (3 courses!) during the week of July 18th-July 24th at several area restaurants! For more information you can visit http://www.tasteofguilderland.com/. Be sure to check back often! The website is updated often with new restaurants and menu's added a few times a week! If you are a restaurant that wants to participate please contact egauthier@guilderlandchamber.com

Double Dip?

2010-07-02T08:37:00.000-04:00

Have you been feeling another recession crunch at hand? Or have you found a way to beat the economic climate? Either way we want to hear from you! Do you think the GCC could help in anyway? The news lately has been pounded with reports of another recession looming. We want to make sure our members know we are here for them and to assist them in any way. Or, if you want to share your story be sure to email egauthier@guilderlandchamber.com.

Annual Dinner

2010-06-28T09:15:00.000-04:00

Sorry we havent been to active on the blog! we have been super busy at the Guilderland CHamber of Commerce. Make sure to check back for lots of exciting announcements! On June 10th we held our Annual Dinner.
Thank you to those for making it such a success! To view pictures from the event, please go to:

http://joanheffler.portraitstorefront.com/event/179648/Photos/

The event code is GuildDinner. (Pictures courtesy of Joan Heffler.)

Looking for Email Blast Sponsors!

2010-06-01T13:37:00.000-04:00

Want to get your logo, name, and website out to over 700 people for just pennies a day? Then become a monthly GCC email blast sponsor! cost to have your logo, company name, and website name placed predominately on the GCC weekly email blast is only $50 per month. Hurry! We are already booked for June and July! Have questions? Email Erika at egauthier@guilderlandchamber.com or call 456-6611.

Get Ready for smAlbany!

2010-05-19T16:39:00.000-04:00

You may have heard the term smAlbany the last few years, and even seen the promotions. But what is it about? smAlbany is an event put on by small business leaders for small business leaders, to get us all in the same place to network, offer eachothers services, bounce ideas off one another, get ideas for surviving the economy, etc. Pulled from the smAlbany website, "smAlbany was concieved because of the tight-knit business community surrounding the Capital District. With the difficult economic times, small businesses need to be agile and on the cutting edge of their field. From Google Adwords to protecting your company's intellectual property to learning how to start a new career path, smAlbany's seminars give you the knowledge to be ahead of game." http://www.smalbany.org/

So, we hope to see all of you at this years event, whether it be as a vendor, or as an attendee. This years event takes place on July 27th, at the College of Nanoscale Science and Engineering on 255 Fuller Rd. Albany. You can register right at the website, http://www.smalbany.org/ or email smalbany@liberteks.com.

Affordable Web Advertising anyone?

2010-05-17T11:32:00.000-04:00

Have you ever thought about web advertising? If you have and want to test out your ad, or if you are looking to reach local people, then let us know! We are currently reserving our web ad spaces on our website, http://www.guilderlandchamber.com/. We have numerous sizes available starting at $150 for 6months up to $400 for 6 months. We also have banner ads available for $100 for a year. This is a great budget buster opportunity to help get your business some extra exposure! Give Erika a call at 456-6611.

Cinco De Mayo Social and Silent Auction a HUGE Success!

2010-05-06T11:19:00.000-04:00

On Wednesday May 5th the Guilderland Chamber Women in Business Group held the Annual Social and Silent Auction Party. This year all Proceeds went to benefit the Guilderland Public Library. We are happy to report that the event was a major success and we raised $2, 288 for the Library! Thank you to everyone who helped make this even possible via, time money, donations, sponsorships, and more!

Across the Street Pub is Chamber's Oldest Member!

2010-04-29T14:15:00.000-04:00

Did you know that Across the Street Pub is our Oldest member? That’s right! They were only our 6th member EVER to sign up with the GCC. The pub opened in 1976 with Joe Chriaramonde as the owner. Current owner, Michael Arduini has been with the pub since 1978.

The GCC caught up with Mike recently about the current economy, his business, and what he thinks has contributed to the pubs continued success.

The pub first appealed to College students and was more known as a college bar in the 1980’s. Now they are more of a “restaurant with a bar, versus a bar that serves food”. They did a huge inside renovation around 1985 and had a big overhaul. Now, the pub is a hang out spot for mostly state workers, locals, and students who are looking for a good meal.

Mike believes that customer loyalty has definitely helped in this economy. “With the economy it’s been tough. We find that loyalty helps a lot. We utilize coupon books and have a frequent diner program where our customers can rack up points to get discounts. We have also kept the same high quality food and we cook our own soups and meats. We really have just tried to treat people good over the years” Mike says.

He says to help reward the loyal customers they implemented a ‘frequent diner program’ and coupon books.

When talking about success and loyalty Mike credits much of the pubs success and stabilization to his employees. The pub employees about 27 people. Some of which have been loyal employees for most of those 20+ years.

Have you been Across the street yet? If not, now is the time to go. So stop in at Across the street pub to see Mike and his staff. He recommends the Turkey Club (his favorite) and the chicken wings!

Guilderland Chamber of Commerce Announces Chamber and Town Beautification Award Winners!

2010-04-26T09:24:00.001-04:00

Chamber Award Winners

Best Place to Work:

Capital District Transportation Authority

45 nominations from CDTA employees were submitted in a matter of weeks.

Award of Merit:

Altamont Community Tradition(ACT)

This award is designated to an individual or organization whose work and civic activities have significantly contributed to the betterment of the business community. This year ACT proved to be a vital organization in bettering the community in Altamont with such events as Victorian Holiday Events, Village House Tours, and village cleanups among other activities.

Small Business Person for the Year:

Kevin Clancy of Kevin Clancy Real Estate

Kevin Clancy has made a name for himself in and around the Guilderland Community, not just with his Real Estate Business, but by supporting other area businesses and business leaders. He also expanded his business and opened up a new office in March of 2010.

Chamber Champion:

Joanne Hook of CDPHP

Joanne currently serves as the chair of the GCC Women in Business Group. She continues to support the chamber with many events throughout the year as a volunteer, sponsor, organizer, chair, attendee, and leader. She goes above and beyond what is asked of her and you can find her at almost every chamber event.

Town Beautification Award Winners

New Construction:

SEFCU of Altamont

Stop by and pay the staff a visit in their beautiful new building now serving the village of Altamont!

Best Remodel:

Juicy Burger/Reflections Nail Salon

For turning old medical offices into two beautiful spaces. One being a high end burger restaurant, and the other a serene spa for manicures and pedicures.

Worth a Detour:

Forever 21

Located in Crossgates Mall Forever 21, a young women's clothing store recently expanded into a 2 story shop. The attention to detail from the glitter in the floor tiles to the details of the construction on the walls and clothing racks, this store off the beaten path is worth a look even if you don't fancy their fashions.

Best Overall:

Stewarts Shops for the Altamont/155 and 146 Locations

Famous around the region for their ice cream and quick lunch stops in addition to grocery's and fuel, Stewarts win this award not only for their new buildings in the area, but also for the landscape around each of their buildings and eye catching signage.

All award winners will be celebrated and presented with plaques at the Guilderland Chamber of Commerce's Annual Dinner on Thursday, June 10th 2010 at the ALBANY COUNTRY CLUB!!

It's Official! Jodee Kenney from Your News Now and Lis Calandrino to Host the Annual Social and Silent Auction!!

2010-04-20T12:18:00.000-04:00

You heard right! Both Jodee and Lis have agreed to MC the Cinco De Mayo Social and Silent Auction! This year's event that is hosted by the GCC's women in business group will go to benefit the Guilderland Public Library. The event will take place on May 5th at the Colonie Country Club. Tickets are $30 for Early Birds, and $35 at the door. Come show your support for the Library, a vital resource to the community, and win some great prizes such as a Cape Cod Getaway, Lake George getaway, gift certificates to restaurants, spa's, tickets to local attractions and MORE!!

Open Houses and Charity Events

2010-04-19T10:18:00.000-04:00

As usual it's been quite busy here at the GCC! It seems like everyone is having an Open House! Join us this Wednesday Night at 5:30pm to wish the UPS Store at 1971 Western Ave a Happy 21st Birthday!

The following Morning stop by the Subway in Cosimo's Plaza at 7:30am-8:30am to sample their new breakfast menu! The first 15 People through the door get a FREE goody bag filled with lots of great items!
Both events are FREE and open to the public!!

And Don't forget about our Spring Social and Silent Auction on May 5th at the Colonie Country Club to benefit the Guilderland Library! Lots of great auction items including a Cape Cod getwaway, Lake George Getaway, lots of gift certificates to restuarants and spa's, and More!! Cost is $30 for early birds and $35 at the door!

Nominate someone you think deserves to be honored at this years Chamber dinner!

2010-04-12T10:46:00.000-04:00

It's that time of year again! NOMINATE your favorite business, person, or public entity for the Chamber Business and Town Beautificiation Awards! Below are the categories and what we are looking for.
Simply Reply back to this email with who in the Guilderland, Altamont, Voorheesville, McKownville, Westmere, or Guilderland Center areas you think are deserving of the awards!
You can email your nominations or visit our website at www.guilderlandchamber.com and download a form.
BUSINESS AWARDS

The Guilderland Chamber of Commerce annually honors local businesses and volunteers who show exemplary qualities in the categories listed below. The awards are presented at the Annual Dinner on June 10, 2010, at Albany Country Club. Please fill out and fax or mail back so that we can consider your nomination!! Best Place to Work Award--Do you ever think that you are a part of a pretty terrific place to work? Is your staff an active and content part of your team? Then your business deserves to be recognized!

Small Business Person of the Year Award -awards an outstanding small businessperson or organization leader for her or his business innovations and accomplishments, managerial skills, leadership, energy and enthusiasm.Nominees must be members of the Guilderland Chamber.

The Chamber Champion Award-recognizes and honors an individual who is considered to be an outstanding volunteer, professional contributor and continued advocate for the Guilderland Chamber of Commerce. This award is given in recognition of their significant contributions to the GCC, for providing direction, offering guidance and giving unselfishly of their time and resources.

The Award of Merit-recognizes a local individual or an organization whose work and civic activities have significantly contributed to the betterment of the business community in Guilderland. All nominees must have demonstrated, through professional and community activities, a commitment to continued enhancement of the Guilderland community.

NOMINATIONS must be returned by April 23, 2010.

Please return the completed form to or email us back the information below to egauthier@guilderlandchamber.com or kburbank@guilderlandchamber.com

Guilderland Chamber of Commerce-2050 Western Avenue-Guilderland, NY 12084-Fax-456-6690

Award Category: Please circle one: Best Place to Work Small Business person of the Year

Chamber Champion Award of Merit

Name of Nominee:________________________________________________________________

Address:________________________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip:________________________________________ Phone:____________________

Award Category: Please circle one: Best Place to Work Small Business person of the Year

Chamber Champion Award of Merit

Name of Nominee:________________________________________________________________

Address:________________________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip:________________________________________ Phone:____________________

Award Category: Please circle one: Best Place to Work Small Business person of the Year

Chamber Champion Award of Merit

Name of Nominee:________________________________________________________________

Address:________________________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip:________________________________________ Phone:___________________

Award Category: Please circle one: Best Place to Work Small Business person of the Year

Chamber Champion Award of Merit

Name of Nominee:________________________________________________________________

Address:________________________________________________________________________

City, State, Zip:________________________________________ Phone:___________________

2010 Guilderland Community Beautification Achievement Awards

Objective: To enhance the quality of life in the Town of Guilderland area by encouraging contributions to the

community's physical environment.
Criteria: Nominees must be either a commercial/business or public entity (examples being schools, businesses,

municipalities, etc...) located in the Town of Guilderland (including McKownville, Westmere, Altamont,

Guilderland, Guilderland Center, Voorheesville).

Achievement/Award Categories

New Construction: Construction projects must have been completed during the last 12 months.

Renovation Contribution: Renovation projects must have been completed during the last 12 months.

Worth a Detour: This category speaks for itself. Visually, the aesthetic value of the entity deems it

worthy of a detour off of the beaten path.

Overall: An outstanding achievement award will be presented to recognize the highest

level of beautification excellence across all categories.

Judging will be based on the attractiveness of the building's façade, suitability to site, plantings,

signage, cleanliness and maintenance, as well as use of lighting and other elements.

NOMINATIONS: Nominations must be received at the Guilderland Chamber of Commerce

(GCC) by April 23, 2010. An accompanying photograph is encouraged.

Award Presentations: Awards are presented at the GCC's Annual Awards Dinner on Thursday, June 10,

2010.

Complete the nomination form and FAX to 456-6690 to: Guilderland Chamber of Commerce

These awards are sponsored by the Town of Guilderland and the GCC.

NOMINATION FORM

Entrant Category: __New Construction __Renovation __Worth A Detour __Overall

Nominee Name: _____________________________________________ Phone: __________________

Address: __________________________________________________________________________

Nominator Name: ____________________________________________ Phone: __________________

Description: Please include exact location, date of completion (for renovation/new construction contributions) and how you

feel this entrant has contributed to beautification of the community. Please provide photograph if possible.

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Mixer kicks off a busy Spring/Summer season at the GCC!

2010-04-06T11:34:00.000-04:00

We have all heard of March Madness, but now that March is over, and the final four have all duked it out, what are you going to do now? How about attending one of the MANY events coming up at the GCC in the next few months. We kick off our Spring/Summer season that is FILLED with networking and events this Thursday, April 8th at the Design on 20 Center.
This space is beatifully designed and features local contractors and businesses specializing in home remodeling, but don't take our word for it, some see this stunning space with your own eyes! ......RSVP at 456-6611, egauthier@guilderlandchamber.com. Cost is $10 per person and the event starts at 5:30pm at 2390 Western Ave.

Be sure to check our website events page to see more of our upcoming events as well as member and community events. Or email or call us for more information! check back often, this are just getting started here!

Email

2010-04-01T10:51:00.000-04:00

If you have any comments on this blog at all, or any suggestions for us, please feel free to email Kathy(kburbank@guilderlandchamer.com) or Erika(egauthier@guilderlandchamber.com)

Membership drive, what can we do for YOU?

2010-03-31T11:07:00.000-04:00

Spring has sprung (hopefully) and we at the GCC along with our membership group have kicked off a membership promotion Blitz. We have decided that for Spring, any new member who joing on or before May 31st will recieve 2 free months free of this years membership and a FREE insert into our newsletter, (which is a $100 value). Why you ask? Well, the last few months we have seen a large influx in new members, and frankly want to keep them. In these troubled economic times its more important than ever that Small businesses recieve more bang for their buck. We know that as a member there are various discounts that members can receive and are entitled too, including advertising, networking events, promotions, health insurance, and more. But most of our members dont take part in many of these benefits. So we are going to put out there, member or not, what do you want to see from us? More advertising specials? More events? More visits from Chamber staff? Let us know! We know that businesses are changing. What can we do to help you with these changes, and how can we improve our customer service? Please comment! We will try our best to implement your ideas!

2010-03-23T11:24:00.000-04:00

With the business climate ever changing we have seen signs and symptoms all over the region, from the small businesses, to corporate ones, from schools to parks, everyone is cutting back. Now, with health care reform, small businesses especially are looking closely at this newly passed legislation to see how it will affect them. What do you think of the Health Care Reform Bill and its effect on small businesses? how about our community as a whole?

Help the Guilderland Library Celebrate National Library week!

2010-03-23T10:05:00.001-04:00

To celebrate National Library Week (April 11 to 17), the Guilderland Public Library, in cooperation with the Guilderland Chamber of Commerce, is offering an opportunity to drive more business to your store. It will encourage patrons to shop at your store and get a discount (the amount of which is entirely up to you, but we suggest 5%) simply by showing you their Guilderland Library Card.

The Library will promote this effort by:

• Placing a prominent "Show your Library Card at these local stores, and get a discount!' on its website; the graphic will click right through to a dedicated page listing all participating stores. If you have a website, your store name will be linked to your website.

• Displaying posters throughout the Library showing all participating stores' names

• Giving your store an 8 1/2 x 11 promotional sign to display in your front window: During National Library Week (April 11 through 17), show us your Guilderland Library Card, and get a discount!

If you would like to participate in this program, please let me know by Friday, April 2, so the Library can prepare all promotional material.

Contact at the Library is: Mark Curiale, curialem@guilpl.org, phone 456-2400 x 12.

New Blog, and Discounts for Members!

2010-03-10T14:18:00.000-05:00

The Member to Member discount brochure has been updated! Stop in the chamber and pick one up today, or go to http://www.guilderlandchamber.com/m2m.html. Lots of new money saving discounts! Just say you’re a member, or bring the brochure to places offering discounts including the American Safety’s Council’s online defensive driving course where you can save 10% on your auto insurance!The GCC is also now using the email service Constant Contact. As a member you are entitled to some great discounts using this service, with up to 25% off! Constant contact is great for businesses who have an email news letter or news blast! And if you think that isn’t enough to keep us busy, in addition to Facebook, Linkedin, and Twitter, we have also resurrected our chamber blog!Look for more updates on here. I will be updating this blog a few times a week. Have news that you want to share? Let meknow and I will also blog about it! Have an interesting topic, or Idea? We will talk about that too! Be sure to check back often!

First Friday Breakfast

2010-03-09T08:09:00.001-05:00

We have changed the name of our Small Business Group to First Friday Breakfast. This new name better reflects the state of the group. We encourage all members to participate in this fantastic program.

Social and Charity Auction Coming Up SOON!

2009-04-30T14:24:00.000-04:00

RSVP now for the Wednesday, May 6 Social and Charity Auction at Colonie Golf Country Club at 5:30-7:30 pm. The event is a networking mixer format but with entertainment and a really great silent auction with over 40 items to bid on. The proceeds go to The Girl Scouts of NENY. Jazz Singer Kelly Bird and Pianist Jon LeRoy will entertain you, the food at the Country Club is to die for, and for the low ticket price of $30 per person (advance) this cannot be beat! This event is also the GCC networking mixer of the month, so don’t miss it! Walk-ins welcome too, for $35 per ticket.

www.guilderlandchamber.com/calendar.html

This event is sponsored by Key Bank, Orenda Yoga, The Guilderland Agency, Myers Environmental Consulting, AVILA Retirement Community, and Lurie and Co, CPA’s, and coordinated by the Women’s Business Group.

Next Big Event at Best Western Soverign

2009-04-10T11:21:00.001-04:00

On Thursday April 23-Guilderland and Bethlehem Chambers “Door Prize” Mixer will be held at the Best Western Sovereign hotel at 1228 Western Ave, Albany. 5:30-7pm. Join host Best Western and bring a door prize to do a 30 second infomercial about your business! $10 members, 15 not-yet members. 456-6611 or www.guilderlandchamber.com/calendar.html.

This is going to be an exciting event. Be sure to register early.

SBG meeting SRO!

2009-04-04T09:53:00.000-04:00

The Small Business group meeting on Friday, April 3 was SRO, Standing Room Only. More than 30 participants were on hand for the exciting event. The topic was the brainchild of member Lisbeth Calandrino of Peachtree Communications. The presentation was fantastic! Attendees thanked us for putting this on…..Thank you Lisbeth! Some of our best presentations come from chamber members who see a need to educate others---have an idea? Got feedback-good or bad? Email Kathy Burbank at kburbank@guilderlandchamber.com and tell us what YOU think!

SBG on April 3

2009-03-27T15:02:00.000-04:00

Don't miss the next Small Business Group meeting on April 3! "Tough Strategies for Tough Times." Our member, Peachtree Communications, will be presenting at this important meeting. At the Chamber offices in Star Plaza.

Visit our Calendar Page to register. Doors open at 7:30 am for refreshments and networking, program begins at 8:00 am.

Your Chamber works with Guilderland Library on Blood Drive

2009-01-28T09:12:00.001-05:00

Today, January 28, is the BIG DAY for the GCC Annual Blood Drive 1-6pm at the Guilderland Public Library. This year’s annual Blood Drive needs YOU! Did you know that by donating a pint of blood you can save up to three lives??? It’s a painless process, takes only about an hour from start to finish and this year the American Red Cross is once again partnering with Dunkin Donuts. All donors will receive a coupon for a free bag of Dunkin Donuts Coffee!!! Please seriously consider donating blood and saving someone’s life. Call Cyndy Myers at 456-6611 to sign up or send an email – cmyers@guilderlandchamber.com. Last year your donations were 100% over our goal – let’s do it again!!!!

Time is running out to get your flyers to us!

2009-01-27T08:19:00.001-05:00

The next newsletter–the winter edition-will be out Mid February. For $100, we will insert your flyer which gets mailed to the full GCC membership!! 650 copies of the flyer are needed in our office by Feb 6.

For members ONLY!

Mataraza from Tony Robbins Group to present on January 9

2009-01-04T14:05:00.002-05:00

Mike Mataraza, Peak Performance Strategist from the internationally renowned Tony Robbins Group presents: “Unleash the Power Within.” 8:00 am at the Holiday Inn on Western Avenue. This is a Guilderland, Bethlehem and Colonie Chamber special presentation to get you prepared for the New Year on the right foot. This workshop will provide you with the same strategies, communications skills, and physiology used by the world’s top achievers to attain outstanding success and fulfillment. Call 456-6611 for more information.
$15 - Register by clicking right here.

Holiday Mixer & Open House Big Success

2008-12-11T10:54:00.000-05:00

The GCC's first major event on December 10 was a great success. Over 120 members and guests joined together to celebrate the holiday season and the opening of the Chamber's new digs in Star Plaza. Sponsored by Bouchey and Clarke and the CT Group the mixer and open house featured catering by BFS, Aromi d"Italia, and We Do Fondue. Volunteers helped organzie the event and provided expert decoration.

The Chamber looks forward to our next event. For more information, call 456-6611 or visit our Calendar page.

We have moved!

2008-12-02T18:44:00.000-05:00

The Guilderland Chamber of Commerce is very excited to announce that we have moved to a new location. The offices are now at Star Plaza, across the street "kitty corner" from our previous building. Star Plaza is at the intersection of Route 155 and Western Avenue in Guilderland. We are right next door to Aromi d'Italia.

Be sure to drop in and visit us. We will give you the Grand Tour of our new digs.

Extreme Makeover Mixer

2008-11-18T14:32:00.000-05:00

Spa Li Ve in Cosimo Plaza was the site of an exciting Extreme Make Over Mixer on November 7. Co-Hosted by Fancy Schmancy, Subway, PlanetBeach, Abby Rose, and Dr. Andrew Frank participants entered to win an "Extreme Makeover." Two winners, one male and one female, were chosen. Kara Wilhelm of Panera Bread was one of the winners.

December SBG to Feature SEO

2008-11-10T18:03:00.000-05:00

On Friday December 5 the Chamber's Small Business Group will have the topic of "Your Web Site & Search Engines: Search Engine Optimization and Promoting Site." Learn important techniques for promoting your Web site including improving your position on the search engines. Presented by Roger Lipera, owner of Roger Lipera Web Design. The Small Business Group's December meeting will have a very special 2 hour event to introduce members to our new offices at Star Plaza! Networking at 7:30 am, program starts and 8:00 am and concludes at 10:00 am . Star Plaza, Western Avenue at Route 155. Mapquest map here. $5 gets you coffee and light breakfast, and networking. $5 - Click here to register. Call the Chamber at 456-6611 for more information.

Small Business Group November Event!

2008-11-03T14:58:00.000-05:00

On Friday November 7 join the GCC Small Business Group, Panel Discussion on Small Biz Success Stories! Join Craig Wander, owner of We do Fondue, Alicia and Bob Nielsen, Nielsens Direct, Inc., (a mailing services company) Stacy Smith, President of Capital Signsmith and more! AVILA, 100 White Pine Rd off Washington Ave Extension. 7:30 networking, presentation at 8:00 am.$5 gets you coffee, light breakfast, and networking. Register online at http://www.guilderlandchamber.com/calendar.html

Extreme Makeover - Guilderland Edition!

2008-10-30T14:09:00.000-04:00

The Guilderland Chamber of Commerce is coordinating a Friday evening networking event called the Extreme Makeover Mixer! Several local shops located at Cosimo’s Plaza in Guilderland have wanted to do a fun event that promotes local businesses and shows how businesses can work together!

On Friday November 7, 5-7:30 pm, at 1800 Western Ave (Cosimo’s Plaza) Spa Li Ve will act as host to this unique event!

Extreme Makeover was the brainchild of Spa Li Ve, a new hair, nail and make-up business to the plaza. Working with Fancy Schmancy Clothing, Abby Rose Boutique, Planet Beach Spa and Salon, Dr Andrew Frank, DDS, and the chamber, these businesses will host a networking event (Catered by Subway!), where a drawing for a makeover featuring products and services from all of these businesses will be given away. Hair, Nails, Make-up, Tanning, Spa Services, Teeth Whitening, Botox, and more will be part of the” Makeover.” The “reveal” will take place at the December Guilderland Chamber holiday mixer (Date TBD).

RSVP Now by replying to this e-mail or you can also register and pay online at www.guilderlandchamber.com/calendar/html.

Don’t miss this entertaining and unique event! $10 for members, $15 for non-members.

Last Chance to Register

2008-10-28T14:28:00.001-04:00

Guilderland Chamber Members and friends-Join us Halloween morning! We are sponsoring a “morning mixer” with hosts Lisa Giruzzi of Transformational Conversations, and Melody Burns, Idea Practitioner; two women who have perfected the art of networking at their fun and fabulous morning mixers! These mixers are huge!!

Join 80-100 folks from all over the capital region for breakfast and a no-program mixer at Bountiful Bread in Stuyvesant Plaza. Bring a door prize (it can be a mug, umbrella, tote, service or gift from your store--anything!) and get 1 minute to tell the audience what you can do for them! No cool gifts? Wear a costume, and you get 1 minute too! No matter what, you’ll meet great people and win some prizes!

October 31, 7:30-9 am, Bountiful Bread, $12 in advance, $15 at door.

Easy RSVP to this message and pay $12 at the door!

Hallowwen Special that You Can't Miss

2008-10-27T09:37:00.000-04:00

Guilderland Chamber Members-Join us Halloween morning! We are sponsoring a “morning mixer” with hosts Lisa Giruzzi of Transformational Conversations, and Melody Burns, Idea Practitioner; two women who have perfected the art of networking at their fun and fabulous morning mixers! These mixers are huge!!

October 31, 7:30-9 am, Bountiful Bread, $12 in advance, $15 at door.

Easy RSVP to this message and pay $12 at the door!

Souped Up On Guilderland Cook-Off Winners Announced

2008-10-14T10:34:00.000-04:00

The Guilderland Chamber of Commerce announces the winners of the Souped Up On Guilderland at Altamont Orchards 2nd annual cook off! The winners are:

Best Soup - The Highland’s Restaurant Butternut Bisque

Best Chili - BFS Restaurants’ Nutty Chicken Chili

Best Stew - Aromi D’Italia’s Southwestern Chicken Slew

Most Unique Entry-Aromi D’Italia’s Sweet Potato and Chocolate Soup

Saturdays Souped Up On Guilderland event was part of Altamont Orchards 40^th Anniversary celebration, and brought 500 visitors to the Orchard for soup tasting, a car show, Altamont Haunted orchards, Hay maze, and other fun activities. The event was the second annual soup cook off, and sponsored by the Guilderland Chamber of Commerce, NBT Bank, , CM FOX, and Heritage Village/Burns Management

Photographs of the event are posted on the Taste of Guilderland Web site as is a slide show of the car show.

NOTE: News agencies can request photographs and additional information by contacting the Chamber at 456-6611 or info@guilderlandchamber.com

Souped Up On Guilderland Set for Saturday!

2008-10-10T09:44:00.000-04:00

Souped up on Guilderland! Join event sponsors CM Fox, NBT Bank, Burns Management/Heritage Village, Wildehausen Retreat, and restaurants the Highlands, Barcelona, BFS, Mezza Notte, Hana, Aromi D’Italia, Township Tavern, Cats Meow and more battle it out for best soup, chili and stew! Don't miss this exciting event at Altamont Orchards. $5 admission into soup tent. BBQ to benefit Altamont Free Library! Features soup, apples, games, hayrides, cider, and cars! Call 456-6611 for more information or visit www.tasteofguilderland.com.

Economic Bail Out - What is it all about?

2008-10-09T10:43:00.000-04:00

In response to the current economic situation in the country and the world, the Guilderland Chamber mobilized quickly and scheduled a panel discussion with leading experts in the financial field for an informational overview of “What happened to get to the enormous bail-out? and how does it impact Small Business and Individuals?”

Guests Jim McGlynn, VP of Business Development for Pioneer Savings Bank, Michael Lurie, CPA, of Lurie and Company, and Ted Kunker, Financial Planner with Waddell and Reed discuss these issues and answer your questions!

Where: NYS Nurses Foundation, 2113 Western Ave (the entrance is across from the SEFCU/20 Mall entrance)

When: Tuesday October 14, 5:30 pm-6:30 pm

Rsvp to the GCC by Tuesday Oct. 14-noon

This program was coordinated by the volunteers of the Women in Business group.

Guilderland Chamber of Commerce Announces Advertising Offers

2008-10-08T08:25:00.001-04:00

"The difficult financial times should not stop small businesses from promoting their services and products," says Roger Lipera, Chairperson of the Guilderland Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

"We have several opportunities that will benefit businesses of any size and scope," Lipera continued recently.

The GCC is now offering advertising space on the Chamber's Web site at a very reasonable cost. There are three different ad sizes available for placement on the right side of the pages. Advertisers can also select a rotating banner ad that appears at the top of most pages. The ad positions are open to Chamber members. Details are at www.guilderlandchamber.com/advertise_on_site.html.

Announcements have gone out for ad placement in the upcoming 2009 Business Directory. This high-quality print publication goes out to over 7000 businesses and homes in the region. All Chamber members are listed in the directory, but many will want to register for display ad. Several sizes are available, and interested businesses should call the Chamber at 456-6611.

There are a number of other unique opportunities for business promotion. Members are encouraged to become sponsors for events, such as Souped Up On Guilderland, After Hours Networking Events, and other well-attended and promoted occassions. Any member can become a sponsor. Email info@guilderlandchamber.com for complete details.

Burns Management Joins Souped Up Sponsors

2008-10-04T09:24:00.001-04:00

Burns Management, a Guilderland-based property management firm, has joined the collection of sponsors that will be bringing Souped Up On Guilderland to the community on October 11, 2008 at Altamont Orchards. Other sponsors include NBT Bank, Our Towne Guilderland, Roger Lipera Web Design & Consulting, and Wildehausen. These firms are crucial to the success of the event.

Full details about Souped Up On Guilderland are at www.tasteofguilderland.com.

Small Busness Group Hosts Panel

2008-10-02T16:48:00.000-04:00

The GCC Small Business Group, "Marketing on a Shoestring" for Small Business. Meeting Friday October 3rd at 7:30-9 am at AVILA, 100 White Pine Rd off Washington Ave Extension. A panel of experts will help you promote your business in ways that will not kill your budger. $5 gets you coffee and light breakfast, and lots of networking. Register today on our Calendar of Events page.

For more information, call the Chamber at 519 456-6611.

Many Restaurants for Souped Up On Guilderland

2008-10-01T09:40:00.000-04:00

The second edition of Souped Up On Guilderland, October 11 at Altamont Orchards, promises to be even bigger and better than last year. The latest list of restaurants includes favorites from Guilderland that are sure to please. Visitors to the event will be able to sample soup from Mezza Notte, Westmere Deli, Hana, Panera Bread, Aromi d'Italia, BFS, Cat's Meow, Township Tavern, Barcelona, and The Highlands.

Entry to Souped Up On Guilderland is only $5. Additional treats will include a car show, haunted house, crate maze, baked goods, and much more.

For details visit www.tasteofguilderland.com.

2008-08-21T08:03:00.000-04:00

The Guilderland Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its Annual Golf Classic on September 22 at the Colonie Golf and Country Club in Voorheesville. The event will benefit the Guilderland YMCA’s Circle of Champs. Major Sponsors include Pioneer Savings Bank, Verizon Fios, Woodmen of the World Lodge 421, and Bouchey and Clarke Financial Services.

The Guilderland YMCA Circle of Champs’ mission is to improve the quality of life for children and families who have been burdened by life-threatening illnesses.

Not your ordinary Golf Event, the chamber has worked hard to add some new and interesting twists to the Classic. A corporate challenge gives “bragging rights” to the winners with a permanent plaque displayed at the Chamber offices. The event will also include lunch, an evening networking mixer, drinks, awards, a Chinese raffle and many other fun activities. Participants will also have the chance to win a two-year lease on a brand new BMW if a hole-in-one is made, compliments of Capital Cities BMW.

2008-08-20T15:42:00.000-04:00

Guilderland Chamber to help Build Your Business!

The Guilderland Chamber of Commerce is teaming up with WROW and the Colonie Chamber of Commerce to help local entrepreneurs start their business. With the help of sponsors, participants will have the chance to win over $7,500 worth of products and services to help build their business. WROW staff members will announce the winners July 9.

Interested participants can enter the sweepstakes for their chance to win. In addition to the grand prize, eight runner-ups will also be chosen and granted over $250 worth of products and services. The contest is open to anyone who is 18 years and older.

Sponsors include AFSCO Fence services, Liberteks, Logos, Verizon and We the People. AFSCO will provide services worth approximately $1000; Liberteks will provide small business technology to secure network servers; Logos will provide large print formatting, graphic design time, and marketing and design consultation; Verizon will provide a free year’s service of FiOS data; We the People will provide $1000 worth of document preparation services. The Guilderland and Colonie Chambers will be providing a year of chamber membership.

The contest is a great and unique way for small business owners to depend on the Chamber to help build their business. Interested parties can visit www.wrow.com for a complete set of rules, a list of prizes, and registration for the giveaway.

Guilderland Chamber Announces Community Awards

2008-05-02T11:29:00.000-04:00

The Town of Guilderland and the Guilderland Chamber of Commerce are pleased to announce the annual Chamber Business and Town Beautification awardees. The awardees are nominated by chamber and community members, and selected by a group of volunteers coordinated by the chamber.
Town Beautification Awards:

New Construction: Orchard Creek Pavilion
Interior Renovation-Gregory’s Barber Shop-20 Mall
Best Renovation-Poiema Salon and Spa
Worth a Detour-The Township Tavern in Altamont
Overall Best Beautification effort-Famers Feed and Tractor Supply

Chamber Business Awards:

Best Place to Work-Center for Disability Services
Small Business Person of the Year-Tom Denham, Careers in Transition
Chamber Champion-Jenni Bliven, Branch Manager, NBT New Karner Rd
Award of Merit (organization or group impacting the community) Guilderland School District Nurses

The awards are given at the Guilderland Chamber’s annual dinner at the Italian American Community Center on June 5, 2008. In addition to the Town and the Chamber, the Guilderland Hamlet Neighborhood Association will be honoring Kurz and Associates on Western Ave and Schuyler Companies (for Walgreen’s corner) for their improvement and ongoing maintenance efforts.
#####

New Web Site Launch

2008-05-01T20:01:00.000-04:00

The Guilderland Chamber of Commerce is very pleased to announce the launch of the latest version of our Web site! Created by Roger Lipera Web Design & Consulting, this project represents several months work. The new site includes many important features, including Chamber member search, calendar of events, and complete information about the Chamber. It is now possible to RSVP and register for events online.

This new site will be updated regularly and visitors are encouraged to return periodically to see the latest additions.

Welcome to the Newsroom

2008-04-30T13:37:00.000-04:00

Welcome to the Guilderland Chamber of Commerce Newsroom!