It’s a new Chamber – are you part of it?  This is our theme for 2010 and it is not just our theme.  We want to hear what you have to say, what do you need, how can you contribute to the growth of your Chamber, your Business and your Town? Now is your opportunity to check out how The Chamber can benefit you and your business.  2010 Membership fees are now half price, so join us in building this new Chamber

It has been a busy three months for the new Chamber Board, as we plan where we are going and how we are going to get there.

The Chamber partnered with the Town, Community Futures Wild Rose and Wheatland Business Women for the Business Vitality Initiative which started with a survey of local business owners in March and a second meeting to present the survey results in June.  The key needs were a dedicated Business Development Officer for the Town, downtown beautification and better communication between the Town, the Chamber and businesses.  The Chamber will do what we can in these three areas.  The results are being presented to Town Council on Wednesday, July 7, 2010.

A Welcome to The Chamber orientation meeting was held on June 28 and was well attended by Chamber members.  This was an opportunity to find out exactly what the Chamber benefits are and what the Chamber can do for you and your business.  Our guest speaker, Toby Johnston-Stewart gave a very informative presentation on the Health Benefits available to smaller companies.

The next big thing coming is the annual Chamber of Commerce Parade.  The ads will be coming out in the paper in the next week.  New this year is a $25.00 registration fee for commercial floats.  There is also an opportunity for you to be a part of the Chamber as a Volunteer Street Deputy. We are looking for approximately 20 volunteers for four hours on Saturday, July 31 from 6:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m.  The pay is great – all the juice and coffee you need, a tee shirt and lots of fun!  Consider contacting The Chamber at contactus@strathmoredistrictchamber.ca to participate.

Our next initiative will be a “Shop Local” program.  We are in the final stages of putting this program together which encourages Strathmore and District shoppers to stay in the area instead of heading for Calgary.

Last but certainly not least, watch for more information on our first annual Strathmore Business Awards which will take place during Small Business Week, October 19 – 23, 2010.

We encourage you to attend our monthly meetings which take place the third Monday of each month (yes even during the summer) and let us know what you need and want from your Chamber. As a Chamber we plan to attend as many of the local meetings where issues that impact/concern our members will be discussed as possible.  Our Board members are busy business owners/employees and again we could use your help in this area by being a voice for the Chamber!

Continue to check our website for news and if you have any questions do not hesitate to contact us either by email or phone.

Have a safe and fun summer and we look forward to your contributions to your Chamber.

Yours truly,

Lin Walker