Chamber to Host Economic Update Luncheon Focused on How Climate Change Is Affecting Coastal Businesses

NEWPORT, RI (January 18, 2017) – The Newport County Chamber of Commerce will host an Economic Update Luncheon on Friday, January 27th, from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m., at Newport Vineyards (909 E. Main Road, Middletown, RI).

Sponsored by People’s Credit Union, MIXX 99.3, 1540 WADK and The Newport Daily News, the presentation will highlight Climate Change and Our Changing Coastline: Keeping Coastal Communities in Business.

Speakers for the event will include: U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse; Grover Fugate, Executive Director of the RI Coastal Resources Management Council; and Chuck Miccolis, Director of Commercial Lines Engineering for the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety.

“Rhode Island’s economy depends on the resiliency of our businesses to the effects of climate change,” said Senator Whitehouse. “I’m proud to team up with the experts at our state’s Coastal Resources Management Council to connect local business owners with the best tools available to help them prepare for sea level rise and severe weather. I thank the Newport County Chamber of Commerce for hosting this important conversation.”

The panel discussion will be moderated by Pam Rubinoff, Coastal Management Specialist from Coastal Resources Center and Rhode Island Sea Grant at University of Rhode Island. Speakers will cover issues and concerns regarding climate change and how it will impact Newport County industries. Additionally, attendees will learn how to access tools and resources to help their businesses prepare for the effects of a changing coastline.

Rubinoff believes this luncheon is a win for businesses and the community alike, stating: “This event presents the unique opportunity for businesses to come together to discuss real solutions on how to be prepared for a changing coastline.”

“We are pleased to host this panel discussion educating Newport County businesses on our changing coastline,” said Erin Donovan-Boyle, Executive Director of the Newport County Chamber. “At the Chamber, we are committed to remaining at the forefront on issues affecting local commerce, and we encourage our members to attend this engaging discussion.”

The cost to attend the luncheon is $35 for members and $45 for non-members. Those interested in attending should RSVP by calling 401.847.1608 or visit www.newportchamber.com/events.

ABOUT THE NEWPORT COUNTY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

The Newport County Chamber of Commerce is one of the state’s largest business advocacy organizations. With over 1,100 members representing over 50,000 employees, the Newport County Chamber’s goal is to find solutions for quality jobs, quality growth and quality of life. As a trusted and reliable source of information for nearly 100 years, the Newport County Chamber connects members with success while encouraging the development of the community.

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