Dear Chamber Members and Business Community,
Our Annual Community Conference is always an energized gathering of hundreds of Chamber members and their families to share perspectives about important community issues, receive updates about key projects, and to renew our commitment to working together to build a better future for all.
In the midst of the COVID-19 impact and the widespread shutdown of normal community life, we have been actively focused on finalizing a decision regarding the 2020 Conference, set for August, in Amelia Island. We have reviewed COVID-19 reopening guidelines and recommendations set forth by federal, state and local officials, monitored health metrics, requested member feedback and discussed with other association executives their own decision process about Summer conferences and/or meetings.
It’s very clear by the most recent daily updates about the COVID-19 presence in Florida that the threat to public health by this pandemic has not passed – and health experts advise that ongoing precautions and safeguards need to be continually embraced in the months ahead. Based on that reality and the input we have received from our members, volunteer leadership and Chamber staff, the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce has decided to cancel this year’s Annual Community Conference, approved by a unanimous vote from our Board of Directors.
The safety and well-being of all of our members, attendees and their families are the priority that compelled this necessary decision. The hotel has been notified of our decision and you will receive notification of the cancellation and refund procedures for those of you with hotel room reservations. Chamber staff will also be in contact with you regarding conference registration reimbursement.
While we regret the need to cancel the conference, we all have important work to do, individually and collectively, in this challenging time, here at home. Our community is properly and deeply involved in the vital national dialogue about ensuring America’s promise of equality to all is fulfilled, every day, and in every institution of our society. We are adjusting and adapting our programming to be most relevant to the needs of our community. That includes active involvement in supporting reforms in institutional policies that are barriers to equality and promoting economic prosperity and equality. While our agenda and programs surely continue to include small business resources, economic development and targeted industry growth, residential and real estate trends, K-12 and higher education programming to bridge the talent gap, 2020 ballot initiatives and much more, we are also pivoting to address the most urgent priorities of this time.
Stay tuned for information on webinars, in-person and hybrid sessions to be presented during the remainder of 2020, as we continue to serve you and our community. Mark your calendar for August 13-15, 2021 for next year’s Annual Chamber Community Conference. We’ll see you there!
We thank you for your continued support as a member and for your commitment to our community. Be well and we will see you soon!
All the best,
Beth Corum
Chair, Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce
EVP & Co-Chief Operating Officer, Capital City Bank