Fall has always been one of my favorite times of year—the air turns crisp, the calendar fills up, and my kitchen starts to smell like soups, stews, and all things cozy. As I’ve been testing a few new recipes lately, I’ve been reminded how much a good meal—and good company—can bring people together. That same spirit of warmth and connection is what I love most about this season at the Chamber. 

We have so much to look forward to in the weeks ahead, starting with one of our most meaningful traditions: the Super 60 Awards on November 7 at the MassMutual Center. For over 35 years, this celebration has honored the businesses and nonprofits that drive growth, innovation, and community impact across Western Massachusetts. This year, we’re taking that tradition one step further with our first-ever Legacy Award, recognizing Balise Motor Sales Co. for more than a century of excellence, adaptability, and service to our region. The story of Balise is a tale of evolution, of a company that has grown, changed, and thrived across generations while remaining true to its values and its people. It’s the perfect symbol of the longevity and leadership that the Super 60 Awards were created to celebrate. 

I’m also so proud to share that we now have our 2025 Super 60 winners—an inspiring group of businesses and nonprofits that truly represent the heart of Western Massachusetts. Each honoree brings something special to our region, whether it’s creating jobs, sparking innovation, or giving back in meaningful ways. Together, they remind us why our community is such a powerful place to live and do business. You can see the full list of winners on our website, and I hope you’ll join us in celebrating them next month. 

As we head toward the end of the year, I’m really looking forward to our December Rise & Shine Breakfast at the Marriott Springfield Downtown on December 3. This one hits close to home for so many of us—how do we attract great people, keep them engaged, and set up the next generation of leaders for success? It’s such an important conversation, and I’m thankful to the experts who will be joining us to share practical ideas and real experiences we can all learn from. 

As we move through this busy season, I encourage you to pause and enjoy the connections that make our Chamber so special. Whether it’s cheering on this year’s Super 60 winners or chatting over coffee at a Rise & Shine, these are the moments that build lasting partnerships and friendships. Cheers to a crisp season of community, new beginnings, and maybe one more batch of soup simmering on the stove.