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Our chance is now to protect lives and businesses

By DANIEL J. HEITZENRATER

President and CEO of the Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce

When COVID-19 restrictions were lifted in New York State in June that’s because vaccinations were on the rise. Now, with the aggressive Delta variant on the rise faster than vaccinations, New York City has implemented a new rule: restaurants, fitness centers, and indoor entertainment venues must see proof of vaccination before patrons can enter. These are some of the types of businesses that were hardest hit in the first round of the pandemic last year, not only in New York City, but locally as well. It does not bode well for the rest of the state as we continue to see increasing cases and hospitalizations beginning to creep into more rural areas again.

Chautauqua County has been fortunate this summer. We have seen an influx of tourist traffic – perhaps not on its usual summer scale, but an increase, nonetheless. More tourism means more business for our local entertainment venues and small businesses, especially restaurants and retail. We all want to see those businesses continue to improve and recover from the downturn of the past year.

The best way to ensure the continued recovery of our local economy is to stop the spread by getting vaccinated. While vaccine passports and mandates have been effective in some places, we can avoid them here by simply doing the right thing. COVID-19 vaccines are safe, effective, and free. They are also very easy to get at this point. To find a location near you visit www.vaccinehound.org/chautauqua and make an appointment.

At this time, the Chautauqua County Health Department reports that just 53% of the eligible population of our county (those ages 12 and up) are vaccinated. That is not a high enough number to protect our neighbors and businesses. The Delta variant is more easily transmitted and is making some unvaccinated individuals sicker than the original virus. A rampant spread or second wave now would severely impact our local businesses, and schools that are about to be in session in just a matter of weeks. Let’s protect the health of our families, communities, and economy and get Chautauqua County vaccinated – before we get to the point of new mandates or business restrictions.

MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD ON CONGRESSIONAL REDISTRICTING

Now is the time for all Chautauqua County residents to become vocal about how we are represented in Congress in the future. Congressional district lines will be redrawn, and New York State will lose a Congressional seat due to last year’s census count.

Because our incumbent representative has already made it known that he will not seek re-election, it may be harder to keep the 23rd District of New York intact through this process, but it makes it crucial that we weigh in on the process.

Chautauqua County remains a largely rural county. It remains in our best interests to be aligned with a district that represents rural and small-city interests, rather than the metropolitan interests of the Buffalo region.

The New York State Independent Redistricting Commission has scheduled a series of virtual meetings by region and is accepting public testimony. The public meeting for the Western New York region – which includes Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Allegany Counties – is set for 2pm, Thursday, August 12. You can submit testimony online by visiting the Independent Redistricting Commission website at https://nyirc.gov/meetings and click “submit testimony without attending a meeting.” We urge local businesspeople to make their voices heard before August 12.

NOMINATE A BUSINESS OR INDIVIDUAL FOR CHAMBER AWARDS

The Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce is seeking nominations for its annual Economic Development and Person of the Year Awards.

The Economic Development Award is given annually to a company or organization that has contributed most to the economic development, quality of life, and stability of our region.

The Person of the Year Award is presented to a member of the Chamber who is recognized by the entire region for his/her outstanding achievements and contributions either within the past year or throughout their entire life. This is a special person to obviously “stands out” and would be immediately recognized by the region as a leader.

Their contribution can be through their efforts in business, community service, political leadership, charitable service, or more.

If you would like to nominate a business or individual for either of these awards please send an email including a short narrative of why they should be selected to Chamber President/CEO Dan Heitzenrater at dheitzenrater@chautauquachamber.org no later than August 13. Nominees submitted in the past who were not selected are still eligible for consideration.

PLAY GOLF WITH THE CHAMBER AT PEEK’N PEAK!

Once again this year the Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce will present its annual Golf Tournament at Peek’n Peak Resort in Clymer. The event will begin with a shotgun start at 11am on August 19. Space is limited. Golfers can register online now at www.chamberrsvp.org.

Lunch on the course is part of the package, along with a delicious dinner you can get either plated at the clubhouse or boxed for takeout.

All golfers who choose to participate are also urged to purchase their Golfers Special Super Pack in advance when they register their team. The Super Pack includes two mulligans, beat the pro, ring of fire, and prize raffle tickets. All prizes will be drawn in advance this year and the Golfers Special Super Pack will not be available to purchase the day of the tournament.

The 2021 Chamber Golf Tournament is sponsored by: A Automotive, AES/Empire Solar, Bush Industries, Chautauqua Lake Dental, Chautauqua Patrons Insurance, Community Bank, Dahlstrom Roll Form, DFT Communications, Express Employment Professionals, Graf Realty, Jamestown Container, Jamestown Kitchen & Bath, Jamestown Mattress Company, Koester Associates, Lake Shore Savings Bank, Lawley Insurance, National Grid, Nestle Purina PetCare, OBSERVER, The Post-Journal, and Shults Auto Group.

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