BUSINESS REPORT “Now more than ever, we’re connecting Meadowlands businesses with the critical news and resources they need to stay ahead.”
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t the end of January, a note I wrote to the MC membership ended with this statement: “So, let’s make the future our own. Let’s continue to shape it through strong leadership and focused advocacy for a better tomorrow.” And then I asked: “Will you help me and the MC in making this happen?” Well, I am incredibly happy to say your response was almost immediate! Notes of, “What can I do to help?” and “Count me in!” started arriving within 15 minutes after my team and I sent the email message out. Your responses have elevated my state of mind to a new level of optimism and determination, just when I needed a shot in the arm – pun intended! The MC is marching forward with a full business program agenda and with a vengeance! We will elevate our game with new features Meadowlands Magazine will now feature a new section called Thought Leaders: Opinions & Commentary, where we will present thought provoking content written by high profile notable guests. We have launched this new section in this issue with pieces by Rick Thigpen, senior vice president of corporate citizenship of PSEG and chairman of the PSEG Foundation, and Kevin O’Toole, Chairman of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, which get us thinking deeply about the need for nuclear power generation and a new Port Authority Bus Terminal on the West Side of Manhattan, respectively. Forward! Small business is a big deal to us In 2021, the MC will host a series of Mayor’s Summits on Small Business. By gathering local mayors and officials and engaging local business owners, our end goal is to identify what is needed for businesses to sustain and grow. We will also talk about best practices with other officials and experts who have implemented successful programs in their communities. We believe this engagement and dialog will lead to creative thinking and a better understanding of how to eliminate bureaucracy – profoundly helping main street and local small 4
meadowlandsmedia.com
March 2021
businesses recover from the pandemic. Forward! I am seeing a larger light at the end of the tunnel…the Gateway Tunnel! We recently hosted our Eggs & Issues public policy event in a webinar format, with NJ DOT Commissioner Diane Scaccetti and the CEO of NJ Transit Kevin Corbet discussing transportation infrastructure investment. They announced a creative RFP for new transit technology to enhance the movement of people from Jersey City and Hoboken through Secaucus Junction to the Meadowlands Complex and American Dream. That, along with very positive indications that the Biden Administration is looking favorably on the long-planned Gateway Tunnel, shine a great light and underscore the importance of our continued transportation advocacy. Ideation, hatchibation and innovation (you can call me Slip Mahoney) The MCHQ was envisioned to be a comfortable think tank environment where ideas would be hatched by entrepreneurs as they gather together to innovate and brainstorm. Well, the time has come to get those brains sparking once again. So, check the Chamber Calendar on www. meadowlands.org and join me for a small group in-person Biz Owner Roundtable every Friday morning from 8 – 9 a.m. The coffee is on me! Forward!
Jim Kirkos President & CEO Meadowlands Chamber
