AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700

• Oct. 19: Chamber After 5, 5-7 p.m., at the Hitchcock Center, 845 West St., Amherst. Sponsored by Encharter Insurance and UMassFive College Federal Credit Union. Join the chamber and celebrate the new, 9,000-square-foot Hitchcock Center opening. This will be New England’s first public environmental education center to meet the Living Building Challenge. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register online at www.amherstarea.com.

• Oct. 27: Chamber Legislative Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Lord Jeffery Inn, 30 Boltwood Ave., Amherst. Sponsored by Eversource. The annual legislative breakfast brings together legislators, local officials, and business leaders to network and discuss current and upcoming policy issues. Guest speakers: Senate President Stan Rosenberg, Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito, and state Reps. Ellen Story and John Scibak. Cost: $15 for members, $20 for non-members. Register online at www.amherstarea.com.

FRANKLIN COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.franklincc.org
(413) 773-5463

• Oct. 6: Business Basics Workshop, 9-11 a.m., at the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce, 395 Main St., Greenfield – Masonic Hall Condominium Building. This free workshop, presented by Allen Kronick, senior business advisor, Massachusetts Small Business Development Center Network Western Regional Office, will focus on business fundamentals, from startup considerations to business-plan development and funding sources. It is designed for owners of existing businesses as well as those who are planning to start one. Cost: free. Register online at www.franklincc.org.

• Oct. 7: “Grow Your Business with E-mail & Social Media,” 9:30 a.m. to noon, at the Greenfield Community College Downtown Center, 270 Main St., Greenfield. Join Liz Provo, authorized local expert for Constant Contact, as she helps you learn how to create a marketing strategy that combines e-mail and social media for maximum results. Cost: $5. Register online at www.franklincc.org.

• Oct. 18: Free Legal Clinic, noon to 3:30 p.m., at the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce, 395 Main St., Greenfield – Masonic Hall Condominium Building. The Western Mass Regional office of the MSBDC announced that the law firms of WMassBizLaw have offered to hold a free legal clinic. Individuals, entrepreneurs, and small-business owners will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one for 30 minutes with attorney Sarah Willey to discuss general legal questions such as corporate structure, leases, contracts, insurance, employment, franchising, and various other business-related issues. Cost: free. Register online at www.franklincc.org.

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.chicopeechamber.org
(413) 594-2101

• Oct. 4: Table Top Expo & Business Networking Event, 4:30-7 p.m., at the Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Hosted by the Greater Chicopee, Greater Holyoke, Greater Westfield, and Springfield Regional Chambers of Commerce. With approximately 120 businesses represented and 400 visitors, the Table Top Expo and Business Networking Event is an excellent marketing tool for area businesses. Cost: $125 for an exhibitor table (includes two tickets), $5 for pre-registered admission. Register online at www.chicopeechamber.org.

• Oct. 14: Auction/Wine & Beer Tasting, 6-9 p.m., at Hadley Farms Meeting House, 41 Russell St., Hadley. Country chic theme with entertainment by Sarah the Fiddler. Cost: $40, or $35 each for two or more. Register online at www.chicopeechamber.org.

• Oct. 19: October Salute Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at Summit View Banquet & Meeting House, 555 Northampton St., Holyoke. Cost: $23 for members, $28 for non-members. Register online at www.chicopeechamber.org.

• Oct. 26: Business After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at the Arbors at Chicopee, 929 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Oktoberfest theme with band, food, and cash bar. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register online at www.chicopeechamber.org.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• Oct. 13: Networking by Night, 5-7 p.m., at Fort Hill Brewery. Sponsored by Advanced Restoration Group. An evening of connecting and business building. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register online at www.easthamptonchamber.org, or by calling the Chamber of Greater Easthampton at (413) 527-9414.

• Oct. 19: Medallion Speaker Forum Fall, noon to 1:30 p.m. Hosted by Innovative Business Systems, 161 Northampton St., Easthampton. State Rep. John Scibak joins the forum and gives his insight on how you can be most effective when you need to be. Cost includes boxed lunch from Riff’s Joint. Space is limited. For additional information, e-mail [email protected]. Cost: $20. Register online at www.easthamptonchamber.org or by calling the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

• Nov. 9: Hampshire County Business Bash, 5-7 p.m., at the Lord Jeffery Inn, Amherst. A tri-chamber business-expo networking event. Enjoy business building, networking, complementary appetizers, cash bar, and local brewery beer tasting. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register online at www.easthamptonchamber.org or by calling the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.holyokechamber.com
(413) 534-3376

• Oct. 12: Chamber Business Development / Salute Breakfast, 7:30-9 a.m., hosted by Slainte, 80 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke. Sponsored by PeoplesBank, Holyoke Gas & Electric, and Northeast IT Systems Inc. Join emcees Steven Grande of the Holyoke Mayor’s Industrial Development Association Committee and Dawn Creighton of Associated Industries of Massachusetts as they present area staffing agents and job trainers to discuss means of future workforce education and job readiness. Speakers include David Gadaire of CareerPoint, Tricia Canavan of United Personnel, and Kevin Smith of U.S. Tsubaki. Salutes include Expert Staffing, the Neari School, Skoller, Abbott & Presser, GBS Brows, the 99 Restaurant, the Jamrog Group, Applebee’s, Arte Sana, and KnoxworkX Multimedia. Tickets include a buffet breakfast. Cost: $25 for members with advance reservations and $30 for non-member guests and walk-ins.  Reservations may be made online at holyokechamber.com.

• Oct. 19: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m. Hosted and sponsored by Westfield Bank, 1642 Northampton St., Holyoke. The Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce invites you to an evening of casual networking. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. Register online at www.holyokechamber.com.

•  Oct. 21: Leadership Holyoke, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., presented by the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, PeoplesBank, and Holyoke Community College. Meet at PeoplesBank corporate offices, 330 Whitney Ave., Holyoke. A leadership series with HCC faculty members participating as instructors and facilitators. Community leaders will participate as speakers.

• Oct. 26: Holyoke Chamber Business Person of the Year/Volunteer of the Year Award Dinner, 6-8 p.m., hosted by Delaney House, 3 Country Club Road, Holyoke. A celebratory dinner honoring the 2016 Business Person of the Year and the Henry A. Fifield Volunteer of the Year. Networking and cocktails at 6 p.m. with full-course dinner and awards to follow. Cost: $60. Register online at holyokechamber.com or call the chamber at (413) 534-3376

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• Oct. 5: Arrive @ 5, 5-7 p.m., sponsored by Innovative Business Systems Inc., Pioneer Training, and Florence Bank. This the networking event you don’t want to miss. More than 300 attendees are expected, with food donated by our member restaurants and cold brews donated by the Northampton Brewery. Call chamber for location. Cost: $10 for members. To register, visit www.explorenorthampton.com, call (413) 584-1900, or e-mail [email protected].

• Oct. 28: 2016 New Member Orientation, 3-4 p.m., at the chamber offices, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. This is the chance to tell us more about your business and how the chamber can best serve you. Meet other new members and learn how to make the most of your chamber membership. Cost: Free. RSVP to (413) 584-1900 or  [email protected].

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• Oct. 3: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at the American Inn, One Sawmill Park, Westfield. Join us for our monthly Mayor’s Coffee Hour with Westfield Mayor Brian Sullivan. This event is free and open to the public. Call Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618 to register for this event so we may give our host a head count.

• Oct. 12: Oktoberfest After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., at East Mountain Country Club, 1458 East Mountain Road, Westfield. Bring your business cards for our annual speed connecting. Refreshments will be served. Cost: $10 for members, $15 cash for non-members. To register, call (413) 568-1618. As this event gets closer, an online registration will be made available.

SOUTH HADLEY & GRANBY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.shgchamber.com
(413) 532-6451

• Oct. 19: James E. Hartley, PhD, professor of Economics at Mount Holyoke College, speaks at 7:30 a.m., at the Willits-Hallowell Conference Center at Mount Holyoke. Hartley will speak on the economy. A buffet breakfast will be provided. Cost: $22 for members, $27 for non-members. E-mail [email protected] to RSVP.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.ourwrc.com
413-426-3880

• Oct. 5: Wicked Wednesday, 5:30-7:30 p.m., at Cyber Exchange, West Springfield. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events, hosted by various businesses and restaurants, that bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. For more information about this event, call the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or register at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

• Oct. 26: Food Fest West, 5:30-8 p.m., at Crestview Country Club, Agawam. The event will feature the foods of area restaurants including Chez Josef, Crestview Country Club, Partner’s, and many more. Proceeds raised by Food Fest West will go toward the Partnership for Education and the WRC Educational Fund, which provides grants to businesses for on-the-job training and continuing-education needs. Cost: $25 in advance, $35 at the door. Tickets may be purchased at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

ACCGS
www.myonlinechamber.com
(413) 787-1555

• Sept. 24: Pastries, Politics, and Policy, 8-9 a.m., at the TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. For those political and policy junkies. Join us for our debut event featuring a policy expert and member of the Patrick administration for a breakfast and roundtable discussion. Reservations are $15 for members, $25 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by calling Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Oct. 1: Rake in the Business Tabletop and Business Networking Event, 4:30-7 p.m., at the Castle of Knights, Chicopee. This unique tabletop showcase provides businesses and organizations with an affordable opportunity to exhibit their products and services. Presented in collaboration with the Greater Chicopee, Holyoke, and Westfield chambers of commerce. Exhibitor space is $100 and includes an 8-foot table, two exhibitor passes, and six complimentary passes for admission. Reservations to attend are $5. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by calling Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Oct. 2: Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Log Cabin in Holyoke. Speed Networking — join us for our take on speed dating, a fast-paced way for you to work the room, making 50 new contacts at one breakfast. Get your elevator speech ready for this unique event. Sponsored by Series Sponsor Masiello Employment Services. Reservations are $20 for members, $30 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by calling Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Oct. 9: Lunch ‘n’ Learn, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at One Financial Plaza Community Room, 1350 Main St., Springfield. The program, “Birds Tweet, but Should You? Is Social Media Right for Your Business?” will discuss strategies behind using social media, determining your return on investment and tips on how to best deploy social media to your advantage. Reservations are $20 for members, $30 for general admission, and includes networking time and a boxed lunch. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by calling Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Oct. 24: A Chocolate Affair, 6-9 p.m., at Chez Josef in Agawam. Indulge yourself in chocolate, shopping, and networking. Presented by the Professional Women’s Chamber, an affiliate of the ACCGS. Exhibitor space is $70. Reservations to attend are $40. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by calling Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.
• Oct. 25: Super 60, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., at Chez Josef in Agawam. Celebrate the region’s top-performing companies. Now, in its 24th year, this awards program celebrates the success of the fastest-growing privately owned businesses in the region that continue to make significant contributions to the strength of the regional economy. Presented by Health New England with support from Hampden Bank, Sullivan Hayes & Quinn, the Republican, and WWLP-TV 22. Reservations are $50 for members, $70 for general admission. Reservations may be made online at www.myonlinechamber.com or by contacting Cecile Larose at (413) 755-1313.

AMHERST AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.amherstarea.com
(413) 253-0700

• Sept. 25: Chamber After 5 at Florence Savings Bank, Block Party, 5-7 p.m. Hosted by and sponsored by Florence Savings Bank, 385 College St., Amherst. Explore the whole group of businesses at Amherst Crossing: Amherst Pharmacy, Coldwell Banker-Upton Massamont Realtors, and Pioneer Valley Ideal Weight Loss. Enjoy tasty treats from Portabella Catering. Admission: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. RSVP to [email protected].
• Oct. 3: Amherst Area Chamber Annual Awards Dinner, 5:30-9 p.m., at the UMass Student Union Ballroom. Presented by PeoplesBank. Sponsored by J.F.Conlon & Associates. Legacy Award: John Coull; Lifetime Achievement in Business: Ronald Nathan, Amherst Insurance Agency/the Nathan Agencies; Community Service: Family Outreach of Amherst; Chamber MVP: Cinda Jones, W.D. Cowls Land Co. Admission: $75 per ticket.
• Oct. 18: Legislative Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., at the Lord Jeffery Inn. Sponsored by Western Massachusetts Electric Co. Admission: $15 for members, $20 for non-members.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.easthamptonchamber.org
(413) 527-9414

• Oct. 1: GRIST — Get Real Individual Support Today, 9-10 a.m. at the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce, 33 Union St., Easthampton. The GRIST group is a free member benefit, an ongoing small group of folks who meet regularly to share ideas and get advice on the daily challenges of running a successful business. RSVP to group leaders Derek Allard at [email protected] or (413) 282-9957, or Fran Fahey at [email protected] or (413) 529-1189. Free to chamber members and future members.
• Oct. 8: Mayoral Forum, 6 p.m., Eastworks Meeting Space, Suite 160, 116 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Learn about the Easthampton mayoral candidates’ views on business and their plans for the future of Easthampton. Free and open to the public.
n Oct. 10: Networking by Night Business Card Exchange, 5-7 p.m. Hosted and sponsored by Cernak Buick, 102 Northampton St., Easthampton. Hors d’ouevres, beer, and wine available. Door prizes. Tickets: $5 for members, $15 for future members.
• Oct. 15: GRIST — Get Real Individual Support Today, 9-10 a.m. at the Greater Easthampton Chamber of Commerce, 33 Union St., Easthampton. The GRIST group is a free member benefit, an ongoing small group of folks who meet regularly to share ideas and get advice on the daily challenges of running a successful business. RSVP to group leaders Derek Allard at [email protected] or (413) 282-9957, or Fran Fahey at [email protected] or (413) 529-1189. Free to chamber members and future members.
n Oct. 21: Celebrity Bartenders Night, 6-9 p.m., at Opa-Opa Steakhouse & Brewery, 169 College Highway, Southampton. Join us for a night of fun with local celebrities mixing drinks. Tips benefit the chamber’s holiday lighting fund. Raffles and more fun. Admission: free.

HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.holycham.com
(413) 534-3376

• Sept. 24: “The Power of E-mail Marketing,” bonus session: “Getting Started with Constant Contact E-mail Marketing,” from 8:30 (registration) to 10 a.m., at the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce Executive Conference Room, 177 High St., Holyoke. Sponsored by PeoplesBank and the Republican. Attendance is free. For reservations, call the chamber office at 413-534-3376.
• Oct. 1: Table Top Showcase, 4:30-7 p.m., at the Chicopee Castle of Knights. Four area chambers — Greater Holyoke, Chicopee, Westfield, and the ACCGS — are getting together to present a tabletop mini-trade show. Tables cost $100. Call the Holyoke Chamber at (413) 534-3376 to secure your table.
• Oct. 3: “Ask a Chamber Expert: the Basics of Blueprint Reading,” 8:30-10 a.m., at the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, Executive Conference Room, 177 High St., Holyoke. Learn how to define different types of scales used on drawings; identify the height, width, and length dimensions of a drawing; interpret the various symbols and notations used on a drawing; distinguish between plan, elevation, section, and detail views; and become familiar with basic plan-reading terminology. Price includes a continental breakfast. Cost: $10 for members; $25 at the door and for non-members. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sign up.
• Oct. 9: Autumn Business Breakfast, 7:30-9 a.m., at the Log Cabin. Sponsored by the Republican and Holyoke Medical Center. Recognizing new members, business milestones, and networking breakfast meeting. Cost: members, $22 in advance, $28 at the door. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sign up.
• Oct. 16: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., at the Center for Health Education, 404 Jarvis Ave., Holyoke (former Grynn & Barrett Studios). Business networking event to take place at HCC’s newest education facility. Networking, 50/50 raffle, and door prizes. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for the public. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to sign up.
• Oct. 22: Social Media with Constant Contact Workshop, 8:30-10:30 a.m., at the Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, Executive Conference Room, 177 High St., Holyoke. Sponsored by PeoplesBank and the Republican. This information-packed seminar offers a basic review of the essential strategies and best practices a business or organization should understand to successfully get started with social-media marketing. Admission is free. Brought to you by Constant Contact. For reservations, call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376.
• Oct. 30: Manufacturing Breakfast, 7:30-9:30 a.m., at the Wherehouse, 109 Lyman St., Holyoke. For reservations, call the chamber office at (413) 534-3376.

MASSACHUSETTS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.massachusettschambersofcommerce.com
(413) 525-2506

• Nov. 12: Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon, 9 a.m. registration, at the DoubleTree, Westborough. For more information on ticket sales and sponsorship opportunities, call the chamber office at (413) 525-2506 or e-mail [email protected].

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.explorenorthampton.com
(413) 584-1900

• Sept. 26: Business Planning Workshop, 3:30-5 p.m., at the Northampton Chamber, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. Presented by the staff of the Franklin County Community Development Corp. This 90-minute session informs business owners about business planning, the loan process, where to get help, and how to launch a food product and use the Western MA Food Processing Center. Learn about available resources and walk out knowing your next step. Admission is free, but space is limited. RSVP to [email protected].
• Sept. 25: Incite Information, 7:30-9 a.m., at Look Park: the Garden House. Hosted by the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce. Sponsors: United Personnel, Webber & Grinnell, and Six-Point Creative Works. The speaker will be state Sen. Senator Stan Rosenberg. Incite Information is a four-part series on the future of business in the Pioneer Valley. The format and topics were developed from a survey of chamber members, in which it was clear that business leaders are looking for more avenues for relevant and highly local information that will help them make decisions more effectively. The series will include expert speakers who will address big issues with a local mindset. Topics for this year will include economic development, high-speed transportation, higher education, and the impact of work culture. Cost: $20 for members, $30 for non-members. RSVP required. To register, contact Esther at [email protected].
• Oct. 2: Annual Chamber Open House, 5-7 p.m. Sponsors: Innovative Business Systems, Pioneer Training, and Crocker Communications. The chamber’s largest fall networking event, the open house is designed to introduce prospective members to the chamber and its members. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. RSVP to Esther at [email protected].
• Oct. 8: Business to Customer Marketing Workshop: “On-the-spot Marketing Tips for Increasing Foot Traffic,” 1-3 p.m. Hosted and sponsored by the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce. Presented by the Creative Marketing Group. The Creative Marketing Group will meet with you and your fellow retail business owners and managers at our conference-room table, listen to your marketing and communications concerns, and help you brainstorm practical, professional solutions on the spot. Learn more about how to strategize, advertise, brand, and promote your business, reach the media, and maximize your message in person, in print, and online. Cost: free, but pre-registration is required, and space is limited. To register, contact Esther at [email protected]
• Oct. 22: Business to Business Marketing Workshop, 3:30-5 p.m., at the Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce. Cost: free, but pre-registration is required, and space is limited. To register, contact Esther at [email protected].
• Nov. 6: Arrive@5 Chamber Networking Event, 5-7 p.m. Hosted by the World War II Club. Sponsors: Homeward Vets. Catered by Big Kats Catering. The chamber will be collecting donations for Homeward Vets. A list of needed donations will be posted on its website. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members. RSVP to Esther at [email protected].

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.ourwrc.com
(413) 426-3880

• Sept. 26: Coffee with Mayor Cohen, 8-9:30 a.m., at the OMG Training Center, 604 Silver St. Agawam. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
• Oct. 2: Wicked Wednesday, 5-7 p.m., at Westfield Bank, 655 Main St., Agawam. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events hosted by various businesses and restaurants. These events bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. Free for chamber members, $10 for non-members. Event is open to the public, but non-members must pay at the door. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
• Oct. 10: West Springfield Mayoral Debate, 6-8 p.m., at West Springfield City Hall. Event is open to the public and free for both members and non-members. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].
• Oct. 17: Business with Bacon, 7-9 a.m., at Crestview Country Club. Speaker: Gaming Commissioner Bruce Stebbins. Cost: $25 for chamber members, $30 for non-members. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or e-mail [email protected].
• Oct. 23: Business to Business Expo, hosted by the West of the River Chamber, the North Central CT Chamber, the Bradley Regional Chamber, and the East Windsor Chamber, 4:30-7:30 p.m. Hosted by Holiday Inn, Enfield. Cost: $100 for a six-foot table if you are a member of any chamber and pay in full by Sept. 27, or $150 for a six-foot table if you are not a member of any chamber or do not pay in full by Sept. 27. For more information, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880, or email [email protected].

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
www.westfieldbiz.org
(413) 568-1618

• Oct. 7: Mayor’s Coffee Hour, 8-9 a.m., at the Forum House, 55 Broad St., Westfield. Mayor Knapik will speak about all that is happening around Westfield and field questions. Free and open to the pubic. To register, call Pam Bussell at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618, or e-mail [email protected].
• Oct. 9: October WestNet Connection, 5-7 p.m., at East Mountain Country Club, 1458 East Mountain Road, Westfield. An evening of networking; don’t forget your business cards. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. Walk-ins are welcome. Tickets: $10 for members, $15 cash for non-members. To register, call Pam Bussell at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618, or e-mail [email protected].

GREATER CHICOPEE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.chicopeechamber.org

(413) 594-2101

• Oct. 3: Table Top Expo with the Greater Holyoke, Greater Westfield, Quaboag Hills, and Springfield Regional chambers, 4:30-7 p.m., hosted by Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Sponsored by Holyoke Medical Center, PeoplesBank, Polish National Credit Union, HG&E,  BusinessWest, Grzelak, Grzelak & Associates, P.C., and Westfield Bank. Cost: $5 pre-registration, $10 at the door. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

• Oct. 12: Business After Hours, 4:30-6:30 p.m., hosted by Red Fez, 70 Exchange St., Chicopee. Sponsored by the Red Fez and Westfield Bank. Cost: $10 for members, $15 for non-members, including food and beverage. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

• Oct. 18: Amazing World of Dr. Seuss Salute Breakfast with Kay Simpson of the Springfield Museums, 7:15-9 a.m., hosted by Collegian Court, 89 Park St., Chicopee. Sponsored by the Arbor Kids and Westfield Bank. Cost: $23 for members, $28 for non-members, including breakfast buffet. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

• Oct. 19: Oktoberfest Collaborative Event with Young Professional Society of Greater Springfield, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Munich Haus Biergarten, 13 Center St., Chicopee. Free to YPS and chamber members. Call (413) 594-2101 for more information.

• Oct. 26: Lunch & Learn: New Marijuana Legislation, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., hosted by Residence Inn, 500 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Sponsored by the Greater Chicopee Chamber and Residence Inn of Springfield/Chicopee. Cost: $30 for members, $35 for non-members, including lunch. Sign up online at chicopeechamber.org/events.

GREATER EASTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.easthamptonchamber.org

(413) 527-9414

• Oct. 12: Networking by Night, 5-7 p.m., at Eastworks, 116 Pleasant St., Easthampton. Sponsored by Easthampton Travel. For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org, or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

• Oct. 3: Meet the Candidates, 6-8 p.m., hosted by Eastworks, 116 Pleasant St., Suite 320, Easthampton. An opportunity to meet and get to know candidates running for mayor and City Council positions in Easthampton. For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

• Oct. 25: The Hampshire County Tourism Council will launch its new tourism guide at Northampton Country Club, 135 Main St., Leeds, 5-7 p.m. For more information, visit www.easthamptonchamber.org or call the chamber at (413) 527-9414.

GREATER HOLYOKE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.holyokechamber.com

(413) 534-3376

• Oct. 3: Table Top Expo & Networking, 4:30-7 p.m., hosted by Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. Five area chambers — Greater Holyoke, Greater Chicopee, Greater Westfield, Springfield Regional, and Quaboag Hills — are getting together to present a table-top show. Cost: $125 for a table. Visitors are $5 in advance and $10 at the door. Call the Holyoke Chamber at (413) 534-3376 to secure your table, or sign up online at holyokechamber.com.

• Oct. 11: Chamber Business Development/Salute Breakfast, 7:30-9 a.m. hosted by Gateway City Arts, 92 Race St., Holyoke. Sponsored by PeoplesBank, Holyoke Gas & Electric, and Holyoke Medical Center. Join emcee Linda Noonan, executive director of the Massachusetts Business Alliance for Education, for a discussion on education and workforce development, internships, career exploration, and job shadowing. Speakers include Dr. Steve Zrike, Holyoke Public Schools; Maggie Gifford, William J. Dean Technical High School; and Eileen Bresnahan, Bresnahan Insurance. Plus, a sneak peek at the new high-school redesign. New chamber members will be recognized: Midas of Chicopee, Tradesmen of New England LLC, Northeast Powersports, Midas of Westfield, Paper City Art Kids, Strategic Alliances, Bay Path University, and Volleyball Hall of Fame 2017 induction. Cost: $25 for members, $30 for guests and walk-ins. Reservations may be made online at holyokechamber.com.

• Oct. 18: Chamber After Hours, 5-7 p.m., hosted and sponsored by Westfield Bank, 1642 Northampton St., Holyoke. Business networking event. Refreshments, 50/50 raffle, and door prizes. Cost: $10 members, $15 for guests. Call the chamber at (413) 534-3376 to register, or sign up at holyokechamber.com.

• Oct. 25: Holyoke Chamber Business Person of the Year/Volunteer of the Year Award Dinner, 6 p.m, hosted by Delaney House, Country Club Way, Holyoke. Social hour 6-7 p.m., followed by dinner at 7 p.m. A dinner honoring the 2017 Business Persons of the Year: Michael Hamel, owner of Hamel’s Creative Catering and the Summit View Banquet and Meeting House, and the Henry A. Fifield Volunteer of the Year, Harry Montalvo, Community Development specialist at bankESB. Cost: $65. Register online at holyokechamber.com, or call the chamber at (413) 534-3376.

GREATER NORTHAMPTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.explorenorthampton.com

(413) 584-1900

• Oct. 4: October Arrive @ 5 and Chamber Open House, 5-7 p.m., at the Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St. Cost: $10 for members. Sponsors: Clinical & Support Options, Florence Bank, Innovative Business Systems, and Pioneer Training.

• Oct. 19: “Microsoft Excel: Tips, Tricks, & Shortcuts,” 9-11 a.m., presented by Pioneer Training, hosted by Greater Northampton Chamber of Commerce, 99 Pleasant St., Northampton. This workshop will present tips, tricks, and shortcuts that we have collected and developed over 20 years of teaching and using Microsoft Excel. Participants are encouraged to bring laptops and follow along with the instructor, but this is not required. Pre-registration is required, and space is limited. Cost: $35 for members, $45 for non-members.

• Oct. 24: Start Your Business, 9 a.m. to noon, at TD Bank, 175 Main St., Northampton. Presented by SCORE of Western MA. This three-hour workshop will help you clearly understand the details, challenges, opportunities, and rewards of owning and operating your own business. This workshop is a suggested prerequisite to our Business Planning Workshop. Cost: $25. RSVP, as space is limited. To register online, visit westernmassachusetts.score.org/content/take-workshop-38.

GREATER WESTFIELD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.westfieldbiz.org

(413) 568-1618

• Oct. 3: Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce 20th Annual Table Top Expo & Networking Event, 4:30-7 p.m., hosted by Castle of Knights, 1599 Memorial Dr., Chicopee. The Greater Westfield, Greater Chicopee, Greater Holyoke, and Springfield Regional chambers invite you to the 20th annual Table Top Expo. With approximately 110 businesses represented and hundreds of visitors, this event is an excellent marketing tool for area businesses. Cost: $125 for a draped 8-foot table. Includes two exhibitor passes with fee. Must be a member of one of the four chambers to have an exhibitor table. New Westfield Chamber members may use new-member benefit and pay $62.50 for a table. Admission: $5 for pre-registered tickets, $10 at the door. Call the Pam at the chamber office at (413) 568-1618 for more information, to register, or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities.

• Oct. 6: Workshop: “Family Medical Leave Act,” 8:30-10 a.m., hosted by Holiday Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Join Attorney Timothy Netkovick of Royal, P.C. for this informational workshop on the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA). Employers are well aware of the challenges presented by the FMLA. Employers need to be familiar with the provisions of the FMLA in order to be able to respond to all employee requests, from intermittent leave to unforeseen leave. Cost: free for members, $30 for non-members. Online registration is available at www.westfieldbiz.org, or call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

• Oct. 11: October After 5 Connection, 5-7 p.m., hosted by East Mountain Country Club, 1458 East Mountain Road, Westfield. Sponsored by Fresh Look Interiors and Vivid Hair Salon and Spa. Cost: free for members, $10 for non-members. Refreshments will be served, and a cash bar will be available. A 50/50 raffle will benefit the chamber scholarship fund. Bring your business cards and make connections. This month: speed connecting. Online registration will be made available at www.westfieldbiz.org. For more information, call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

• Oct. 16: Greater Westfield Chamber of Commerce – Best Practices – Hiring & Firing, 8:30-10 a.m., hosted by Holiday Inn Express, 39 Southampton Road, Westfield. Attorneys Mary Jo Kennedy and Jennifer Cannon from Bulkley, Richardson and Gelinas, LLP will present on the subject of best practices for hiring and firing to avoid discrimination claims. This interactive and informative program will include an overview of federal and state employment laws, tips for preventing liability under these laws , what questions can be asked in an interview and what questions are prohibited, reviewing protected classes under federal and state law, documenting performance management and reviews, steps the employer should take when preparing for a termination, and protecting the business from liability for discrimination when terminating employees. A question-and-answer session will follow the presentation. Cost: Free for members, $30 for non-members. Online registration is available at www.westfieldbiz.org, or call Pam at the chamber at (413) 568-1618.

SPRINGFIELD REGIONAL CHAMBER

www.springfieldregionalchamber.com

(413) 787.1555

• Oct. 3: Annual Multi-chamber Table Top Showcase and Networking Event with Greater Chicopee, Greater Holyoke, Greater Westfield, and Quaboag Hills chambers, 4:30-7 p.m., hosted by Castle of Knights, 460 Granby Road, Chicopee.

• Oct. 4: Business@Breakfast, 7:15-9 a.m., Crestview Country Club, 281 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. Sponsored by United Personnel Services. Joshua Weiss, co-founder of the Global Negotiation Initiative at Harvard University and program director of Bay Path University’s master of science program in Leadership and Negotiation, will keynote the event, with a focus on “The Negotiator in You.” Attendees will learn how to negotiate with confidence and calm for successful results. The chamber will also recognize Anthony Hayes as the new general manager for WGBY and Tim Kennedy as the new president of MassLive Media. Cost: $25 for Springfield Regional Chamber members in advance ($30 at the door), $35 for general admission in advance ($40 at the door). Register online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com or by e-mailing Jessica Hill at [email protected]. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Contact Hill at (413) 755-1310 for more information.

• Oct. 11: Pastries, Politics, and Policy, 8-9 a.m, hosted by TD Bank Conference Center, 1441 Main St., Springfield. Featuring new Massachusetts Secretary of Labor and Workforce Development Rosalin Acosta, in her first Western Mass. appearance.

• Oct. 27: Super 60, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., hosted by Chez Josef, 176 Shoemaker Lane, Agawam. The 28th annual Super 60 awards luncheon celebrates the success of the fastest-growing privately owned businesses in the region. Cost: $60 for members in advance, $75 for non-members.

Reservations for all Chamber events may be made online at www.springfieldregionalchamber.com.

WEST OF THE RIVER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

www.ourwrc.com

(413) 426-3880

• Oct. 4: Wicked Wednesday, 5:30-7:30 p.m., hosted by Candlewood Suites. Wicked Wednesdays are monthly social events, hosted by various businesses and restaurants, that bring members and non-members together to network in a laid-back atmosphere. For more information about this event, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or register at www.westoftheriverchamber.com.

• Oct. 19: Networking Lunch, noon to 1:30 p.m., hosted by Cal’s Woodfired Grill, West Springfield. Must be a member or guest of a member to attend. Enjoy a sit-down lunch while networking with fellow chamber members. Each attendee will get a chance to offer a brief sales pitch. The only cost to attend is the cost of your lunch. Attendees will order off the menu and pay separately that day. We cannot invoice you for these events. Register online at [email protected].

• Oct. 25: Food Fest West, 5:30-8 p.m., hosted by Springfield Country Club, West Springfield. Local restaurants show off their cuisine at this well-attended event. Vote for your favorite restaurant or enjoy a cigar on the patio of Springfield Country Club. A DJ, raffle, and entertainment round out this event. Proceeds raised by Food Fest West will go toward the Partnership for Education and the WRC Educational Fund, which provides grants to businesses for on-the-job training and continuing-education needs. Cost: $25 in advance, $35 at the door. Tickets may be purchased online by visiting www.westoftheriverchamber.com. For more information about this event, contact the chamber office at (413) 426-3880 or e-mail [email protected].

YOUNG PROFESSIONAL SOCIETY OF GREATER SPRINGFIELD

www.springfieldyps.com

• Oct. 18: Professional Breakfast Series: “The EQ Exchange,” 7:30-9 a.m, hosted by the Colony Club in Tower Square, Springfield. Use emotional intelligence to manage your boss. Cost: free for members, $15 for non-members.

• Oct. 19: Oktoberfest Third Thursday with Chicopee Chamber of Commerce, 5-7 p.m., hosted by Munich Haus. Join us for live music, light appetizers, and networking. Cost: free for members, $10 for non-members.