The Fourth of July is a moment for our nation to reflect on the Declaration of Independence and our independence as a republic. There will be numerous celebrations throughout Chautauqua County next weekend in honor of Independence Day, including a big parade in Mayville and fireworks in Bemus Point, Dunkirk, Findley Lake, Lakewood, Mayville, and Silver Creek. Flares will light up Cassadaga Lakes and Chautauqua Lake.

Among all the celebrations, Independence Day is also a time to think about what independence really means and how we form a society made up of independent people. The word independent is defined as free from outside control, not relying on another for livelihood or subsistence, and separate from others. In the business world, being independent presents both rewards and challenges.

Independently owned businesses can be formed through either a sole proprietorship or a limited liability company, which are legal structures designed to address financial needs and conditions. Functioning as an independent business means so much more than that. It includes the basics such as ordering products and supplies, direct sales, customer service, maintenance, keeping track of finances, and more.

Throughout Chautauqua County there are hundreds of independently owned businesses. Some are one-person operations. Others may have dozens of employees. These businesses cross all economic sectors from retail to restaurants to manufacturing to service industries such as insurance and law, and many more.

Independent businesses often join business associations in order to help them thrive collectively. Some industries have their own associations focused on a particular type of product or function. All local businesses can join the Chamber of Commerce as they look for opportunities in networking, seek resources or workshops, or are looking for ways to spread the word about their company.

As you plan your Independence Day holiday, we hope you will consider supporting local independent businesses. Need grilling equipment? Check out a local hardware store. Headed to the beach? Pick up a great beach read from a local independent bookstore. Need a break after entertaining? Enjoy a meal at a locally owned restaurant. Locally owned, independent businesses can provide just the right product or service for you. Need some other ideas? Check out the Business Directory on our website at www.chqchamber.org and you’ll find hundreds of businesses right here in Chautauqua County ready to serve you. Let’s celebrate our independence by supporting those who have dedicated their lives to their passion for independent business!

CHQ Chamber at the Fairgrounds is July 10

Come one, come all to the Chautauqua County Fairgrounds before the Fair begins, for a free business expo and networking event which will be held Thursday, July 10 from 5-7pm.

Chamber member businesses are invited to table at this event to show off their products and services, while the general public is invited to network and enjoy the business expo. Food and beverages may be purchased from vendors on site.

Businesses that want to table at the event must register with the CHQ Chamber in advance. Registration is open now through the Chamber’s web calendar at www.chqchamber.org. You must bring your own table and materials. This event is not designed for craft vendors, but rather for local Chamber member businesses. Questions about this event can be directed to Director of Events Staunzie Grady at sgrady@chqchamber.org.

Nominations Open for the CHQ Chamber 2025 Awards

The CHQ Chamber will once again honor a variety of local businesses and organizations that are doing outstanding work and nominations are open now. Anyone may nominate a business or organization to be recognized during the CHQ Chamber Awards Banquet, which is scheduled for October 2 at the Williams Center at SUNY Fredonia.

Award categories are designed to include businesses and organizations in a number of fields. One award will be given for Emerging Business of the Year – a newer or growing business that has demonstrated vision and/or filled a need in Chautauqua County. There are four business sector awards that will recognize outstanding service, production, growth, or community involvement for Hospitality Business of the Year (restaurants, attractions, lodging); Service Business of the Year (retail or service such as financial, insurance, legal, etc.); Producer of the Year (manufacturing, agriculture, or construction); and Not-For-Profit of the Year (and outstanding nonprofit organization). The Business Champion Award will be presented to an organization that has contributed most to the economic development, quality of life, and stability of Chautauqua County. The Business of the Year Award will be presented to a business that has demonstrated outstanding leadership in employee growth, product development or exemplary service. In addition, multiple businesses may be recognized for milestone service years that end in a 5 or 0.

Nominations are open through August 1. All nominations must be submitted through our online form at www.chqchamber.org/2025-award-nominations. Preference will be given to nominees that are members of the CHQ Chamber, and all information must be complete in the application. Nominations will be reviewed by a “supercommittee” of volunteers from across the County and will be approved by the CHQ Chamber Board of Directors.