CHQ Professionals Group

Annual event will once again benefit local Toys for Tots effortDUNKIRK, N.Y. -- The CHQ Professionals Group, in partnership with the Dunkirk-Fredonia Rotary Club, will host its annual Jingle at the Rocks event on Thursday, Dec. 4, 2025, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The holiday-themed gathering will bring together professionals from across Chautauqua County for an evening of networking, entertainment, and seasonal cheer for a good cause. The event is open to ages 21 and older and will benefit Toys for Tots. Admission is $10 with a new unwrapped toy or $20 without a toy. Attendees can enjoy music, appetizers, raffles, and an Ugly Sweater Contest. “This is our signature event for the year, and all proceeds go directly to Toys for Tots,” said Monica Simpson, co-chair of the CHQ Professionals Group. “We appreciate the continued support from our members and the community.” “We are grateful for partners like CHQ Professionals and the Dunkirk-Fredonia Rotary Club,” said Lauren Boyle, Toys for Tots representative. “Their commitment helps ensure local children wake up to a brighter, more joyful holiday season.” Event sponsors include Fredonia Farm Festival, Nestlé Purina, Rotary Club of Dunkirk-Fredonia, DFT Communications, Larson-Timko Funeral Home, 64 on the Rocks, The Catering Company, and Lake Erie Medical Services. Additional sponsorships and basket donations are being accepted for the holiday basket raffle. Businesses and organizations interested in contributing are encouraged to participate. The CHQ Professionals Group also distributes a monthly newsletter, shares local job postings, and continues to expand volunteer opportunities related to workforce and career development. For more information or to purchase tickets, email CHQProfessionals@gmail.com or call 716-363-3770. Event details are available at ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals. About the CHQ Professionals Group - The CHQ Professionals Group, housed under CCPEG, aims to provide social, civic, educational, and networking opportunities for professionals at every stage of their careers. For more information, visit ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals. About CCPEG - The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG) serves as the main convener of economic development partners and resources in Chautauqua County. As an initiative of the Chautauqua Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC), CCPEG acts as the catalyst for advancing economic prosperity, focusing on job creation, retention, and quality of life enhancements. For more information, visit CHQPartnership.org.

Networking event is the final scheduled morning meetup for 2025The CHQ Professionals Group has been hosting coffee meetups in various communities across Chautauqua County in 2025, including at Ryder’s Cup in Lakewood. MAYVILLE, NY -- The CHQ Professionals Group will host a Coffee Meetup at Tulip’s Brunch House (186 S. Erie Street, Mayville) on Thursday, Oct. 2, from 8 to 9:30 a.m. There is no registration required and any and all professionals working in the Chautauqua Region are invited to attend. The October coffee meetup is part of a series of monthly networking events that provide an opportunity for local professionals to connect and share details about their work. This year, CHQ Professionals has hosted four successful coffee meetups at businesses throughout the County, including Cassadaga, Lily Dale, Brocton, Westfield, and Mayville. CHQ Professionals is an initiative of the Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG). “Our coffee meetups bring people together to share ideas, build connections, and start the day on a positive note,” said Monica Simpson, CCPEG Partner Engagement Coordinator and co-chair of the CHQ Professionals Group. “We hope professionals from every background feel encouraged to join in and be part of the exciting momentum here in Chautauqua County.” The CHQ Professionals Group has hosted five successful coffee meetups this season, with this being the final one before the series returns in the spring of 2026. In addition to hosting educational, volunteer, and networking events, the CHQ Professionals Group distributes a monthly newsletter, shares local job postings, and is actively seeking partnerships related to workforce development. For more information, email CHQprofessionals@gmail.com or call 716-363-3770. More details about the group can also be found at ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals. About the CHQ Professionals Group - The CHQ Professionals Group, housed under CCPEG, aims to provide social, civic, educational, and networking opportunities for professionals at every stage of their careers. For more information, visit ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals. About CCPEG - The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG) serves as the main convener of economic development partners and resources in Chautauqua County. As an initiative of the Chautauqua Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC), CCPEG acts as the catalyst for advancing economic prosperity, focusing on job creation, retention, and quality of life enhancements. For more information, visit CHQPartnership.org.

Networking event is the fifth of six scheduled for 2025LAKEWOOD, NY -- The CHQ Professionals Group will host a Coffee Meetup at Ryder Cup Coffee Shop (28 Chautauqua Ave., Lakewood) on Thursday, Sept. 4 from 8 to 9:30 a.m. There is no registration required and any and all professionals working in the Chautauqua Region are invited to attend. The September coffee meetup is part of a series of monthly networking events that provide an opportunity for local professionals to connect and share details about their work. This year, CHQ Professionals has hosted four successful coffee meetups at businesses throughout the County, including Cassadaga, Lily Dale, Brocton, and Westfield. CHQ Professionals is an initiative of the Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG). “Coffee meetups are a great way to start the day with good conversation and new connections,” said Monica Simpson, CCPEG Partner Engagement Coordinator and co-chair of the CHQ Professionals Group. “We want professionals of all backgrounds to feel welcome and inspired to be part of what’s happening here in Chautauqua County.” Besides the September meetup in Lakewood, one final Coffee Meetup is scheduled for 2025. It will take place on Oct. 2 at Tulip’s Brunch House (186 S. Erie St.) in Mayville from 8 to 9:30 a.m. In addition to hosting educational, volunteer, and networking events, the CHQ Professionals Group distributes a monthly newsletter, shares local job postings, and is actively seeking partnerships related to workforce development. For more information, email CHQprofessionals@gmail.com or call 716-363-3770. More details about the group can also be found at ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals. About the CHQ Professionals Group - The CHQ Professionals Group, housed under CCPEG, aims to provide social, civic, educational, and networking opportunities for professionals at every stage of their careers. For more information, visit ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals. About CCPEG - The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG) serves as the main convener of economic development partners and resources in Chautauqua County. As an initiative of the Chautauqua Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC), CCPEG acts as the catalyst for advancing economic prosperity, focusing on job creation, retention, and quality of life enhancements. For more information, visit CHQPartnership.org.

Events provide local professionals with opportunity to network while supporting local businessesThe CHQ Professionals Group recently held a coffee meet-up at 3 Lakes Café in Cassadaga, providing a relaxing and casual environment for local professionals to meet and network. The next coffee meet-up is June 5 at Sacred Grounds Coffee House in Lily Dale and open to all professionals in the area.  (Submitted Photo) DUNKIRK, NY – The CHQ Professionals Group is inviting local professionals from across Chautauqua County attend one of its upcoming coffee meet-up events, with three different events schedule at various businesses in the North County.  These events are free and open to all, providing an inclusive space for attendees to network, exchange ideas, and strengthen community ties in a relaxed, casual setting.  Upcoming meet-ups include: June 5 - Sacred Grounds Coffee House, Lily Dale, NY July 10 - Stephen's Café, Brocton, NY August 7 - Full Strength Coffee Company, Westfield, NY All of meet-up will take place from 8 to 9:30 a.m. and all area professionals are invited to attend one or more of these dates to network and share information about what's happening within Chautauqua County. “These coffee meet-ups are a simple but powerful way to connect people,” said Monica Simpson, co-chair of the CHQ Professionals Group. “Whether you’re new to the area or have lived here your whole life, it’s a chance to build relationships, share ideas, and feel more rooted in the Chautauqua County community.” Simpson adds that the group’s first coffee meet-up was at 3 Lakes Café in Cassadaga on May 1 and was well received by those in attendance, providing a casual environment for attendees to meet and network. CHQ Professionals Group is an initiative housed under the Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth and aligns with CCPEG’s effort to build and strengthen workforce readiness and development In addition to hosting educational, volunteer and networking events, the Professionals also distributes a monthly newsletter, shares local job postings, and is actively seeking partnerships related to workforce development. For more information, email CHQProfessionals@gmail.com, call 716-363-3770, or visit ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals. About the CHQ Professionals Group - The CHQ Professionals Group, housed under CCPEG, aims to provide social, civic, educational, and networking opportunities for professionals at every stage of their careers. For more information, visit ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals. About CCPEG - The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG) serves as the main convener of economic development partners and resources in Chautauqua County. As an initiative of the Chautauqua Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC), CCPEG acts as the catalyst for advancing economic prosperity, focusing on job creation, retention, and quality of life enhancements. For more information, visit CHQPartnership.org.

‘Understanding the Generational Mix at Work’ Scheduled for May 30FREDONIA, NY – The CHQ Professionals Group is excited to announce a special networking and professional development workshop scheduled for Friday, May 30 and open to professionals from across the Chautauqua Region. "Understanding the Generation Mix at Work” is a workshop intended to provide valuable insights into navigating today’s multigenerational workplace. It will be facilitated by Cindy Aronson, owner and principal of Cindy Aronson Training and The Comedy-Code. The event will be held on Friday, May 30 from 8 a.m. to noon at The White Inn in Fredonia. Attendees will enjoy a morning of learning, networking, and breakfast—all for just $5. Open to all professionals, the workshop offers a unique opportunity to build skills, make connections, and gain a fresh perspective on generational dynamics in the workplace. “We’re thrilled to welcome Cindy back,” said Leslie Wille, co-chair of the CHQ Professionals Group. “Her last workshop was one of our most popular, and attendees left with practical tools they could use right away. This session promises to be just as engaging and insightful.” “We created this event to bring people together across industries and generations,” said Monica Simpson, co-chair of the CHQ Professionals Group. “Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, this workshop will offer practical takeaways and a fresh perspective on how we all work better together.” This event is sponsored by Cattaraugus County Bank, The White Inn, and Larson-Timko Funeral Home. CHQ Professionals Group is an initiative housed under the Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth and aligns with CCPEG’s effort to build and strengthen workforce readiness and development In addition to hosting educational, volunteer and networking events, the Professionals also distributes a monthly newsletter, shares local job postings, and is actively seeking partnerships related to workforce development. For more information or to purchase tickets, email CHQprofessionals@gmail.com, call 716-363-3770, or visit ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals. About the CHQ Professionals Group - The CHQ Professionals Group, housed under CCPEG, aims to provide social, civic, educational, and networking opportunities for professionals at every stage of their careers. For more information, visit ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals. About CCPEG - The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG) serves as the main convener of economic development partners and resources in Chautauqua County. As an initiative of the Chautauqua Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC), CCPEG acts as the catalyst for advancing economic prosperity, focusing on job creation, retention, and quality of life enhancements. For more information, visit CHQPartnership.org. # # #

Event focused on raising funds and collecting toys for Toys for Tots initiativeOrganizers of the annual Jingle at the Rocks event present a check for the Toys for Tots campaign. From left to right: Bella Manning, CCPEG; Monica Simpson, CCPEG and CHQ Professionals Group; Dave Dengler, Larson-Timko Funeral Home; Lauren Boyle, Toys for Tots; and Leslie Wille, Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation. FREDONIA, NY – After two postponements due to inclement weather, the CHQ Professionals Group, in partnership with the Dunkirk-Fredonia Rotary Club, hosted a successful Jingle at the Rocks event on Saturday, December 14, at 64 on the Rocks in Fredonia, NY. The primary goal of this event was to raise funds for Toys for Tots, with over $1,945 raised and many toys being collected during the evening. Both CHQ Professionals Group and Dunkirk-Fredonia Rotary Club expressed sincere gratitude to the generous sponsors for their unwavering support, along with those who came out to support the cause. “This event was a perfect way to kick off the holiday season, and both our group deeply appreciates the community’s continued support,” said Monica Simpson, CHQ Professionals Co-Chair. “Despite having to reschedule twice due to weather and having a much smaller crowd, we are proud to have raised almost as much as last year. We look forward to having this event at 64 on the Rocks every year. They are a gracious host.” The event was supported by several local businesses and organizations, including Gold Sponsors Southern Chautauqua Federal Credit Union and Dunkirk-Fredonia Rotary Club. Silver Sponsors were DFT Communications, Larson-Timko Funeral Home, The Botox Barn, The Chautauqua Center, The Waterfront Foundation, Cattaraugus County Bank, and 64 On the Rocks. Bronze Sponsors were Century 21 Turner Brokers, Witco, and Lotus Valley Wellness. "Each year, I find myself thinking that Jingle at the Rocks couldn't possibly get any better—it is a testament to the generosity of our community. I am continually humbled and deeply grateful for this event, our incredible community, my amazing co-hosts, and everyone who contributes to creating a little Christmas magic for so many families. Thanks to all of you, there will be countless smiling faces come December 25th!” stated Lauren Boyle, Toys for Tots Representative. The CHQ Professionals Group, previously known as the Northern Chautauqua County Young Professionals Group, is an initiative under the Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth and is dedicated to providing networking and community engagement opportunities for all professionals working or living in Chautauqua County, regardless of age or location. The group also publishes a monthly newsletter, shares local job opportunities, and actively seeks volunteer opportunities related to workforce and career development. For more information, visit ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals or follow them on Facebook. About the CHQ Professionals Group - The CHQ Professionals Group, housed under CCPEG, aims to provide social, civic, educational, and networking opportunities for professionals at every stage of their careers. For more information, visit ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals. About Dunkirk-Fredonia Rotary - The Dunkirk-Fredonia Rotary Club is part of the worldwide service organization Rotary International, with over 1.4 million members in 46,000 Clubs whose motto is "Service above Self." Locally, District 7090, known as the Best of Friends District, supports and guides over 65 area Clubs with nearly 2,000 members throughout Southern Ontario and Western New York. The Dunkirk-Fredonia Rotary Club takes pride in all of its “Service above Self” initiatives, including Little Lending Libraries, Great Lakes Watershed Cleanups, local scholarships, grants, donations to local food pantries, and the annual Fly-In Breakfast. For more information about the Dunkirk-Fredonia Rotary Club, please visit DunkirkFredoniaRotary.org. About CCPEG - The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG) serves as the main convener of economic development partners and resources in Chautauqua County. As an initiative of the Chautauqua Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC), CCPEG acts as the catalyst for advancing economic prosperity, focusing on job creation, retention, and quality of life enhancements. For more information, visit CHQPartnership.org. Attendees for the 4th annual Jingle at the Rocks fundraiser for Toys for Tots. After having to postpone the event twice due to inclement weather, the fundraiser finally took place on Saturday, December 14 and raised over $1900 for the organization.

Event will take place Saturday, Oct. 19 in Dunkirk, NY  DUNKIRK, NY – The CHQ Professionals Group is set to host its inaugural Halloween Party on Saturday, Oct. 19, from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Clarion Hotel in Dunkirk. The event is designed to bring together professionals from across Chautauqua County for a night of networking and entertainment in a festive atmosphere. The event is open to all professionals aged 21 and older. Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Attendees can enjoy face painting by local artist Patti, tarot card readings, and a chance to meet Medium Ivy River. Steelbound Brewery will cater the event, featuring authentic Indian cuisine, and a cash bar will be available. The evening will also include a costume contest, with prizes awarded for the best individual, best couple, and best group (three or more people). A photographer will be on hand to capture the night’s highlights. “This is a great opportunity for local professionals to connect and celebrate together,” said Monica Simpson, co-chair of the CHQ Professionals Group. “We’re excited to partner with the Clarion Hotel and Steelbound Brewery for our first Halloween Party and look forward to welcoming both new and returning members.” The CHQ Professionals Group is supported by its sponsors: Silver Sponsors: DFT Communications, Larson-Timko Funeral Home, Botox Barn, and Clarion Hotel Bronze Sponsor: Cattaraugus County Bank In addition to hosting events, the CHQ Professionals Group distributes a monthly newsletter, shares local job postings, and is actively seeking more volunteer opportunities related to workforce and career development. For more information or to purchase tickets, email CHQprofessionals@gmail.com or call 716-363-3770. More details can be found at ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals. About the CHQ Professionals Group - The CHQ Professionals Group, housed under CCPEG, aims to provide social, civic, educational, and networking opportunities for professionals at every stage of their careers. For more information, visit ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals. About CCPEG - The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG) serves as the main convener of economic development partners and resources in Chautauqua County. As an initiative of the Chautauqua Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC), CCPEG acts as the catalyst for advancing economic prosperity, focusing on job creation, retention, and quality of life enhancements. For more information, visit CHQPartnership.org.

Group will work to build networking opportunities for all professionals working in Chautauqua CountyDunkirk, NY -- The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG) is excited to announce it will be serving as the parent organization of the recently rebranded CHQ Professionals Group. The CHQ Professionals Group was originally founded in 2016 as the Northern Chautauqua Young Professionals group to provide professionals living and working in the north county an opportunity to network with one another, while also helping to grow and strengthen the community. Last month, the group announced it was rebranding itself as the CHQ Professionals Group and celebrated with a kick-off event at When Pigs Fly, in collaboration with CHQ Chamber. “The recent rebranding effort reflects a commitment to create a more inclusive group that serves professionals of all ages from across Chautauqua County,” said Monica Simpson, Partner Engagement Coordinator at CCPEG and co-chair of the CHQ Professionals Group. "Our goal is to facilitate connections that foster both personal and professional growth.” To help expand its reach, the CHQ Professionals Group will be housed under CCPEG. This will help provide the group with the resources needed to carry out its mission, while also assisting CCPEG with one of its key initiatives over the next couple years. “By making the group an initiative of CCPEG, it will receive support for its various networking events and community projects. CCPEG will also benefit by having a group that can promote and leverage our recently launched Live CHQ talent attraction and retention initiative. It’s a win-win for both,” said Nate Aldrich, Chautauqua County Economic Development Coordinator and CCPEG Manager. According to Simpson, the CHQ Professionals Group is already working to expand its membership to include any professional living and/or working in Chautauqua County. Members can be from any occupation and there is no cost to participate. All that is needed is a willingness to meet with other professionals in the area and help strengthen ties between communities and across the county. The group will continue to work with other networking organizations from throughout the county. The Chautauqua Professionals Group will also continue to host signature events, including: Networking Opportunities, including a joint mixer with JYP on Friday, September 20, at Johnson Estate Winery, and a new Halloween Party on Saturday, October 19, at the Clarion Hotel in Dunkirk. The group will also be present at all CHQ Chamber events. Educational Opportunities focused on leadership and professional skill development, scheduled for spring 2025. Volunteer Initiatives, including the ongoing partnership with the United Ways of Chautauqua County for Literacy Day, also in spring 2025. Fundraising for Kids with events like Jingle at the Rocks, in partnership with Dunkirk-Fredonia Rotary, to support the Toys for Tots project. This year’s event will be held on Thursday, December 5, at 64 on the Rocks in Fredonia. In addition to these events, CHQ Professionals Group distributes a monthly newsletter and shares local job postings. The group is also actively seeking more volunteer opportunities related to workforce and career development. “We live in a wonderful county, and inclusivity is key. We will continue to collaborate with other similar organizations such as the Jamestown Young Professionals (JYP), CHQ Chamber, and Chautauqua Leadership Network (CLN) while also expanding our reach,” Simpson said. Anyone interested in connecting with the CHQ Professionals Group, please reach out to Monica Simpson at CHQprofessionals@gmail.com or call 716-363-3770. More information about the group can also be found at ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals. About the CHQ Professionals Group - The CHQ Professionals Group, housed under CCPEG, aims to provide social, civic, educational, and networking opportunities for professionals at every stage of their careers. For more information, visit ChooseCHQ.com/CHQProfessionals. About CCPEG - The Chautauqua County Partnership for Economic Growth (CCPEG) serves as the main convener of economic development partners and resources in Chautauqua County. As an initiative of the Chautauqua Region Economic Development Corporation (CREDC), CCPEG acts as the catalyst for advancing economic prosperity, focusing on job creation, retention, and quality of life enhancements. For more information, visit CHQPartnership.org.