The Montague Business Association (MBA), a new group founded by local business people, announces its inaugural membership drive and a series of fall events.

*** For Immediate Release ***

September 9, 2008

Montague, MA -- Almost a year in the making, the Montague area once again has its own business association. On September 18 from 5-7 p.m., the Montague Business Association (MBA) will host the first of a monthly “Thirsty Thursday” networking series at the Rendezvous, 78 3rd Street, Turners Falls, MA. These events, which are free and open to the public, will take place on third Thursdays, with locations rotating among establishments in several of Montague’s five villages, including the Miller’s Pub, Thomas’ Country Club, the Night Kitchen, the Route 63 Roadhouse, Jake’s Tavern, and Between the Uprights.

The new MBA’s mission is to support, promote, and develop Montague’s businesses by collaborating with others to better the community and enhance Montague’s long-term economic growth. President Pam Kostanski of Jay K’s Liquors sees the organization as “alive with possibilities for shaping the future of the Montague area business community.” She and Executive Committee members Todd Howe of Caddie Consulting and Mik Muller of Montague WebWorks invite business owners to join the association at annual rates ranging from $60 for sole proprietors to $120 for larger companies -- or to follow the lead of WMECO and contribute $1000 for a Founder’s Membership.

Benefits of tax–deductible membership will include being represented by a unified voice at all levels of government, opportunities for business referrals and networking, and a listing in the MBA’s business directory. Joining now also offers a unique chance to shape the future of a new and exciting organization, says Mik Muller. “There are leadership roles for those who want them, and many other ways to contribute. We are actively looking for people to serve on the membership, communications, programming, and operations committees. We’re a good bunch of people.”

In addition to the Thirsty Thursday socials, the MBA will host a pancake breakfast at 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, October 5th at St. Kazimierz, 197 Avenue A, Turners Falls, scheduled to coincide with the Arts and Leaves Art Walk and Studio Tour taking place that same weekend.

The MBA will also sponsor and facilitate an informational meeting with Town of Montague staff at the Town Hall on Wed., November 12th from 5-6:30 p.m. This event will give area business people an opportunity to ask questions about building codes, permitting processes, health codes, community policing, and more. Updates will also be provided on issues such as Gill-Montague bridge construction plans and the new police station. This event will be broadcast live on MCTV.

“Our goal is to play a vital role in the town by building a viable business support system through both communication and action,” says Vice President Todd Howe. "In our first year, we hope to energize and unite Montague area businesses for the betterment of the community."

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The Montague Business Association is a membership organization currently operating under the umbrella of the Franklin County Chamber of Commerce. Businesses of all sizes in the greater Montague area are welcome to join. For further information, see the “Business Association” area of www.MontagueMA.net, or contact Pam Kostanski at 413- 863-9900 (or 413-522-7727), or email jkliquor@verizon.net

Posted by mik - September 12, 2008