Join the BC Chamber of Commerce in celebrating Small Business Week from October 14th to 20th 2012. Small and medium-sized businesses are an important part of BC’s economic engine. These employers account for 98% of all businesses in the province, and generate over 30% of BC’s Gross Domestic Product. Small businesses contribute directly to growing vibrant communities around the province by tapping into local talent and investing directly into the places they work and live. Chambers of Commerce work with local businesses to support and stimulate local economies around the province. As the key representative of the small business community, Chambers of Commerce actively listen to business needs and communicate them directly to government. The Chamber network extends across BC and Canada, which ensures that businesses are connected to all levels of government. Here in Port Alberni, our chamber is working on up-town revitalization, leading the charge for buying locally with our Shop Alberni campaign, coordinating the Ambassadors “meet and greet” program, while operating the community’s Visitor Centre and hosting interesting guest speakers at our monthly networking luncheons, and more. For more information on our Chamber of Commerce and membership benefits, call 724 6535.
The chamber is holding an on-line auction on our website with all sorts of valuable items up for bid. All you have to do to view the auction items and make a bid is go to our website, avcoc.com, click on the Shop Alberni logo, choose the “chamber auction” icon at the top left of the page. This will bring you to all the auction items and the current bids. To make a bid, just click on the desired item and fill in the blanks. It’s simple and you can have some fun while getting a great deal on some fine merchandise. Bids are up-dated weekdays at 2pm.
There are a number of new and interesting shops opening in the up-town sector these days. If haven’t been there lately, take a stroll along third avenue and Argyle street and see for yourself the quaint new shops. To get a flavor of what’s new up-town all at once, the new businesses are holding a trade fair at Char’s Landing Saturday, Nov.3rd (11-9) and Sunday Nov.4th (11-3). There will be at least 12 businesses exhibiting their wares – everything from vintage furniture to fine coffees. Admission is free – any donations will go to Ty Watson House. There will be refreshments on site and entertainment Saturday evening.
Thought for the Week:
“A billion hours ago, human life appeared on earth. A billion minutes ago, Christianity emerged. A billion Coca-Colas ago was yesterday morning.” 1996 Coca-Cola Company annual report
FROM THE MANAGER’S DESK
SUBMITTED BY MIKE CARTER
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
ALBERNI VALLEY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE