Organized networking has been around for years, and while it has changed in many ways the premise remains the same: putting people in the same space together is just good for business and for career-building.

The Chamber of Commerce has long been in the business of creating opportunities for businesspeople to network with one another. The type of networking we facilitate is mainly business-to-business, but it also creates consumer interactions when one business may find another business that could potentially buy their products.

Simply stated, networking means creating connections. Those connections can help grow your business in a variety of ways: creating referrals, gaining exposure for your products or services, and raising your overall business profile. On a personal level, networking can improve your professional skillsets and confidence.

On a recent sunny and pleasant evening in Lakewood, the Chamber of Commerce was pleased to present a networking event at Group Ther-Happy where guests enjoyed special appetizers and a cash bar and mingled with one another in a casual after-work setting. Thatás the whole idea behind our Business After Hours events. We allow each business to present a little something about who they are and what they do, and we are always happy to help make introductions among the businesspeople present.

Thereás another Chamber networking event coming up this week as we present the Business After Hours Beach Bash. Held at the Sunset Bay Beach Club in Irving, this event will include appetizers, happy hour bar pricing, live music, and one of the most outstanding views of Lake Erie in Chautauqua County. We hope youáll join us for this networking opportunity on the beach, Thursday, June 9. Bring your business cards and seize the opportunity to learn about other local businesses while also promoting your own.

Chamber member businesses can send two people to each Business After Hours event at no cost. The price is just $10 for non-members or for additional member attendees above the first two. Be sure to bring business cards and come prepared to give a quick overview about your business so others can get to know you.

The Business After Hours Beach Bash is sponsored by Brooks-TLC Hospital System, AW Farrell & Son, LaBella Associates, M & T Bank, R. Mackowiak Funeral Home, Media One Radio Group, OBSERVER, and The Post-Journal. Register online now through the Chamberás events calendar.

To register for the Chamberás Business After Hours Beach Bash visit our web calendar online at www.chautauquachamber.org.

NOMINATIONS FOR ANNUAL AWARDS ARE NOW OPEN

Each year the Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce presents its Economic Development Award and Person of the Year Award during our Annual Awards Banquet held in October. Over the two decades that these awards have been given they have gone to a variety of businesses, organizations, and individuals from all parts of Chautauqua County.

The Economic Development Award is presented to a company or organization that has contributed most to the economic development, quality of life and stability of our region. This represents one award for the entire region.

The Person of the Year award is presented to an individual who meets the following criteria: 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 who obviously âstands-outã 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 other areas of interest.

You do not have to be a Chamber member to nominate for either of these awards. Nomination forms are available online now through the Chamberás Annual Awards Banquet calendar item, on our web calendar for October 6. Download the fillable forms, enter the information required, and then return the completed form to Carrie Swanson at the Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce at cswanson@chautauquachamber.org.

If an individual or organization is nominated but not selected, the Chamberás Board of Directors will hold those applications for reconsideration in subsequent years.

And save the date now ­ October 6 ­ for the Chamberás Annual Awards Banquet. Itás always a terrific event!

GET READY TO GOLF WITH THE CHAMBER AUGUST 18

The annual Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament is scheduled for August 18 at Peekán Peak. Early bird pricing features a $10 discount per player when you sign up by July 15.

The Chamber Golf Tournament is a great opportunity to entertain clients, reward employees, network with fellow golfers, and enjoy a round of golf on a beautiful pro-level course.

The Chamberás 2022 Golf Tournament is sponsored by AES/Empire Solar, Chautauqua Patrons Insurance Company, Community Bank, Dahlstrom Roll Form, Lake Shore Savings Bank, Jamestown Container Company, Jamestown Mattress Company, LaBella Associates, Lawley Insurance, and Shults Auto Group.

Register online now through the Chamberás web calendar event at www.chautauquachamber.org.