Some of you may know I escaped the cold for a few days as I traveled to Florida for a family memorial service.  In addition to a gathering of remembrance for a loved one, my family enjoyed a little beach time and watching the Super Bowl together on a warm Florida evening. Being there was a reminder of how a single event, whether it’s family event, a championship game or a Chamber gathering, can pull people together across places and perspectives. It’s the shared moments, conversations, and sense of connection that stay with us long after the final goodbye, and that same spirit carries through the work we’re doing together this spring.

I want to begin by thanking everyone who joined us for our February Rise & Shine Breakfast at the Springfield Museums. It was one of those mornings that stays with you. Thoughtful conversation, an inspiring setting, and a deeper appreciation for the role our cultural institutions play in the life of our region made it especially meaningful. The discussion offered a clear reminder that the Springfield Museums are not only preserving history, but also driving economic activity, supporting education, and helping position Springfield as a destination. Thank you to our speakers and to everyone who helped make it such an energizing start to the day.

If there’s one event to make sure is on your calendar this spring, it’s OUTLOOK 2026 on March 6 at the MassMutual Center. OUTLOOK has a way of filling the room with people who want to be part of the conversation, and this year will be no exception. With a timely program and a keynote from Susan M. Collins, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston, and remarks from Massachusetts Secretary of Economic Development Eric Paley, Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, and Congressman Richard Neal, this is one of those gatherings you’ll hear people talking about long after it concludes. Secretary Paley brings decades of experience shaping the innovation economy as an entrepreneur and venture capitalist and now serves in the Healey-Driscoll Administration working to strengthen economic opportunity across the Commonwealth. Seats are limited, and if past years are any indication, you won’t want to wait too long to register.

Later in March, the Chamber will once again come together around a shared purpose at our 3rd Annual Fill the Food Bank event on March 31 at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. This evening has become a meaningful tradition, bringing our Chamber community together alongside our fellow Hampden County Chambers to support neighbors across the region. It’s one of those moments that reminds us how much good can happen when businesses and community leaders show up with generosity and intention.

Looking ahead to April, I’m especially excited for our Rise & Shine Breakfast, Chasing the American Dream, on April 9 at MGM Springfield. Many of you may remember a similar conversation we hosted last year, which left a lasting impression on everyone in the room. This year’s program will once again feature powerful personal stories from immigrants who have built businesses, advanced their careers, and strengthened the economic and cultural fabric of our region. It promises to be a morning filled with inspiration, perspective, and meaningful connection.

I’d like to take a special moment to congratulate our partners at Canopy Management Group, Inc., formerly known as The Markens Group, on an exciting and intentional next chapter. Yes, they have a new name and a newly expanded office at 1350 Main Street, and I recently got a sneak peek. Between the fresh footprint, the new energy, and the buzz of what’s ahead, the inspiration is contagious. As our accredited association management partners, they support the Chamber through financial management, events, marketing, and member communications. This investment reflects their strong belief in our community and in the power of bringing people together. Congrats, longtime Chamber members, partners, and friends at Canopy! 

After a weekend built around a big game and even bigger conversations, it’s a good reminder that the best moments are the ones we experience together. I hope to see you next at OUTLOOK on March 6. It’s shaping up to be one of those events you’ll be glad you didn’t watch from the sidelines.