Pemberton and District News and Community Events

The new Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce blog is now online. This blog allows people to subscribe to the blog and be alerted to community news, events and updates by XML feeds in real time.

The Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce serves the Village of Pemberton, Pemberton Valley, Birken, D'arcy, Mt. Currie and surrounding areas in British Columbia Canada.

The Chamber website is available online at www.pembertonchamber.com. The new blog is available at www.pembertonchamber.com/blog.

2007 Pemberton Citizen & Business of the Year Nominations

Do you know a business person or partners who have been in business for over one year and are located in Pemberton, Mount Currie, Birken or D’arcy that have provided excellent customer service and promote the growth and development of the business community? Do you know citizen or a group of citizens who volunteer their time for the betterment of the community? If you do, consider nominating them for Pemberton’s Business Person(s) or Citizen(s) of the Year 2007.

The Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for Citizen(s) and Business Person(s) of the Year for 2007. Nominations close on November 9th and online voting will commence on November 14 until November 30th.

Download a NOMINATIONS FORM

Awards will be presented at the Pemberton Chamber’s 75th Anniversary Christmas Gala to be announced shortly.

For more information contact:
Shirley Henry, Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce.
Tel.604-894-6477
info@pembertonchamber.com

Pemberton Visitor Info Centre Closed for the Season

The Pemberton Visitor Centre closed for the season on September 30th . This year 19,110 visitors were recorded at the centre. The operation of the Visitor Centre was made possible with grants from the Summer Works Program, Tourism BC, Village of Pemberton, Squamish Lillooet Regional Distract and the Pemberton and District Chamber of Commerce.

Winterfest 2008

Plans are now being formulated for Winterfest 2008 under the capable chair of France Lamontagne. Winterfest is an initiative of the Pemberton Spirit of BC Committee.

NEW MEMBERS
Welcome to the following new members: Pemberton Office Services, Aloha Whistler Accommodations Ltd., Sea to Sky Custom Ceramics

WINTERFEST LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE
There is now a new website for Pemberton’s Annual Winterfest – www.pembertonwinterfest.com. Check the site for details of the 2008 events.

CHAMBER 75th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
The Chamber’s 75th Anniversary Celebration & Citizen & Business of the Year Awards will be held at Big Sky Golf & Country Club on Friday December 7th. Mark your calendar now as you won’t want to miss the entertainment by “Abba Cadabra”. Details will follow shortly.

CITIZEN & BUSINESS OF YEAR NOMINATIONS
The Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for Citizen(s) and Business Person(s) of the Year for 2007. Nomination forms are available on the Chamber website www.pembertonchamber.com Nominations close on November 9th and online voting will commence on November 14 until November 30th.

Vote Now! Voting Closes November 30, 2007

Voting is now open. There have been 6 nominations received for citizen of the year and 3 nominations for business of the year. Make your vote count.

Visit www.pembertonchamber.com/news.htm to go to the website link to access the ONLINE voting.

Please note:
* only one vote per person
* only one vote per category (business and citizen) is allowed
* voting closes on Friday November 30, 2007 at midnight
* your privacy is assured with our 'secure' online voting process

Winners will be announced at the Pemberton & District Chamber annual Christmas Party held at Big Sky Golf & Country Club on Friday December 7th. Details for the Christmas party will be announced on the Pemberton and Chamber website soon.

Congratulations to all the very worthy nominees!

Citizen & Businesses of the Year Awards

The Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce honoured the Citizen and Business of the Year recipients at their 75th Anniversary on December 7th. The Citizen of the Year award was presented to The Pemberton Child Care Society and the Businesses of the Year award was presented to the Pemberton Valley Supermarket - Mark & Carolyn Blundell. Presenting the awards were Mayor Jordan Sturdy & President Paul Selina.

2010 Business Opportunities Workshop
DATE: January 16, 2008
TIME: Registration - 8:30, 9 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
LOCATION - SLRD Office - 1350 Aster Street, Pemberton.
Cost : $20.10
For more information call 604-905-8672 or email edc.alex@telus.net

EDC OFFICE HOURS
Our new Economic Development Consultant, Alexandra Ross will be in the Chamber Office located in the Visitor Centre (across from Petro Can) on Mondays from noon - 5:30 (except Dec. 24th & Dec. 31st)

HAVE YOUR BUSINESS PROFILED
The EDC is currently compiling information on businesses in the Pemberton, Mount Currie, Birken & D'Arcy area. Make sure that your business is included in this area profile which will be distributed widely and could produce new business opportunities for you. For more info contact edc.alex@telus.net or call 604-905-8672

Winterfest 2008
Plans are well under way for the 2008 Winterfest which will take place from February 8-17. There is now an open call out for street performers, Artisans, Vendors, Artists & Photographers. Click on to the Press Releases for further information. For further information contact Chairperson France Lamontagne at 604-894-0065 or alchemist@mycoast.net. For detailed information on all the events please check out Winterfest's new website www.pembertonwinterfest.com

Read Winterfest Press Releases (PDF file)...
General Press Release
Call for Volunteers, Vendors, Street Performers, Artisans, Floats, etc.

CHAMBER ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
The Annual General Meeting and Election of Officers for 2008 will take place on Thursday, January 31, 2008 @ 7 p.m. at the Pemberton Community Centre.

The Board of Directors of the Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce wish each and everyone of you a wonder holiday season and best wishes for a very happy, healthy and successful 2008!

PEMBERTON & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWSLETTER - February 12, 2008

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
A special welcome to our newest members in 2008:
* Ecovest Financial - Jennie Helmer
* Nancy Frame- Pemberton Custom Cleaners

EARLY BIRD MEMBERSHIP FEES
A reminder that if you renew your membership by February 28th you will realize a saving. Also of note, the Individual category is just that and is NOT a business membership. Even if you are an owner operator of a small business with no employees the basic early bird fee is $140.00 for that category. As an Honour System we ask that you please check your receipt to see if you have correctly paid for this year. Apologies if the new rates were confusing.

CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2008
At the Annual General Meeting of Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce held on January 31, 2008 the following were elected to the Board of Directors for 2008:
* President - Paul Selina
* Vice-President - Sandy Ryan
* Secretary-treasurer - Shirley Henry
* Directors: Lisa Ames, John Beks, Greg Bikadi, Lincoln Ferguson, Bill Janyk, David MacKenzie, Cam McIvor; Nigel Protter

SPIRIT OF BC COMMITTEE
The Board of Directors of the Pemberton Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the appointment of France Lamontagne as the new Chairperson of the Spirit of BC Committee - Pemberton Valley.

WINTEFEST EVENTS IN PROGRESS
Winterfest events, sponsored by the Spirit of BC Committee, got off to a great start on Feb. 8th. Events continue until Feb 17. For complete details on remaining events check the Winterfest Website www.pembertonwinterfest.com.

Don't miss:
* Pemberton Mountain Film Festival, Feb.12, 13 - Copperdome Lodge;
* Winterfest Pajama Night, Feb. 13 - Pemberton Secondary School,
* Winterfest Read-a-thon, Feb. 13 & 14 - Mount Currie Coffee House & Locals Living Room,
* Street Hockey Tournament, Feb. 16th - Pemberton Secondary School,
* Mountains of Art, Feb. 16th - Pemberton Valley Vineyard & Inn,
* Winterfest Youth Video Dance, Feb. 16th - Pemberton Community Centre,
* Winterfest Community Breakfast, Feb. 17 - Pemberton Community Centre;
* Artisans Exhibit, Feb. 17 - Back Country Adventure Club,
* Winterfeast Rotary Club Fundraiser Culinary Arts Dinner & Wine Pairing - Pemberton Valley Vineyard & Inn.

NEW MEMBERS

Welcome to our new members:

* Shaw Creek Farms
* Canwest Propane
* Walsh Restoration
* PAWS - Pemberton Animal Wellness Society
* Pemberton Wildlife Association.

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

Business Plan - Create Your Path to Success
Prepare your business for NOW, 2010 and beyond! Your road map to success starts with a well-defined business plan. Pro-actively plan and prepare with a professional business plan. Your written plan describes what you plan to achieve, gives you a guide to follow, and defines your business success. At the end of this four hour workshop, you will leave with the completed framework for your successful business plan.
Facilitator - Jennie Helmer - Ecovest Financial
Date - March 31, 2008
Time - 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Location: 7400 Prospect Street - White building next to Village of Pemberton Office
COST - $20.00 (cheques payable to Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce)
Pre-registration required. Call 604-905-8672 or email edc.alex@telus.net

2010 Business Opportunity Workshop
Facilitator - Rob Arthur -2010 Commerce Centre
Date - April 7, 2008
Time - 8 a.m. -11:30 a.m.
Location - SLRD Office - 1350 Aster Street
Cost - $20 (cheques payable to Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce)
RBC - What is a Request for Proposal (RFP)?
Pre-registration required. Call 604-905-8672 or email edc.alex@telus.net

Demystify the RFP bid Process
Facilitator - Betty MacLeod, Senior Manager Olympic Business Development, Royal Bank of Canada
Date - April 29, 2008
Time - 8 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Location - SLRD Office - 1350 Aster Street
Cost - $20 (make cheques payable to Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce)
Pre-registration required. Call 604-905-8672 or email edc.alex@telus.net

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES

Both of the publications listed below are well used by the many visitors to our Community and extremely important marketing tools at the Pemberton Visitor Centre. You are encouraged to participate in both publications if possible.

Pemberton & District Visitor Guide
- published by the Whistler Question.
Ads are now being accepted for this publication. It is anticipated the publication will be available for the May long weekend. Pemberton Chamber members will receive a 15% discount of posted rates in this publication. Download more information at www.pembertonchamber.com/media/2008_pemberton-visitors-guide-info.pdf

Pemberton Map/Brochure
- published by the Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce.
A reprint will be done very shortly with 10,000 copies printed. This publication is also distributed to all Tourism BC major Visitor Centres and community Visitor Centres. Details to follow shortly. We are hopeful the rates will remain the same as last year.

CHAMBER LOGO CONTEST

Get your creative juices flowing! The Pemberton Chamber is accepting submissions for a new LOGO for the Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce. Submissions will be accepted until March 31st The winning logo will receive $250.00.

Disclaimer
All entries become the property of the Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce. A suitable logo may or may not be selected from the submissions received.

BUDGET 2008 TAX CHANGES

On February 19, 2008, the Minister of finance announced changes to the taxation legislation administered by the Ministry of Small business & revenue. For details on these changes check the Government's budget website - www.sbr.gov.bc.ca/msbr/budget/budget.htm

CELEBRATE BC'S 150th ANNIVERSARY

The Pemberton & District Museum Society assisted by the Pemberton Rotary Club, ScotiaBank, and Pemberton Valley Lodge are pleased to announce that the Theatre Royal from Barkerville will be in performing "Encore" - The Gold Rush Music Hall Revue on Saturday, April 5, at 8 p.m. at the Pemberton Community Centre. Tickets are available at the Pemberton Scotiabank or you may reserve tickets by calling 604-894-6477.
Tickets: Adults $20.00 Seniors & Students $15.00

DIRECTORS ATTEND PREMIER'S LUNCH

Three Directors of the Pemberton Chamber attended the Premier's Lunch on February 29th in Vancouver. This was an opportunity to meet with many of the Provincial Cabinet Ministers and fellow Chamber Directors from around B.C. Representing Pemberton were Directors Lisa Ames, Cam McIvor & David MacKenzie.

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIPS

The 2008 Pemberton Chamber Membership fees are now due. A 2008 Renewal & Membership form is available on the Chamber website - www.pembertonchamber.com/join.htm. Your early renewal will ensure you are listed in the 2008 Membership Directory.

PEMBERTON & DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE APRIL 2008 NEWSLETTER

This Weekend's Events...

CELEBRATE BC'S 150th
Theatre Royal "The Gold Rush Music Hall Revue - Encore"
Date: Saturday, April 5 Time: 8 p.m. Location: Pemberton Community Centre
Tickets: At Pemberton Scotiabank or AT THE DOOR
Admission: Adults $20.00 Seniors & Students $15.00
Sponsored by Pemberton Museum assisted by Pemberton Rotary, Pemberton Valley Lodge.
Get more Gold Rush Review info.

PEMBERTON WILDLIFE ASSOCIATION FUNDRAISER & DANCE
Date: Saturday, April 5, 2008
Time: Doors Open 5 p.m. Dance 8 p.m. to the "Hairfarmers" Live and Live Auction
Location: Pemberton Secondary School
Admission: $20 (kids under 10: $10) available at Pemberton Office Services, Spud Valley Sporting Goods
Get more Fundraiser and Dance info.

.........................

2010 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES WORKSHOP
RBC - What is a Request for Proposal (RFP)?
Facilitator: Rob Arthur's - 2010 Commerce Centre
Date: April 9, 2008 (NOTE: DATE CHANGED)
Time: 8 a.m. -11:30 a.m.
Location: SLRD Office - 1350 Aster Street
Cost: $20 (cheques payable to Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce)
Pre-registration required. Call 604-905-8672 or email edc.alex@telus.net

A COMMERCIAL OVERVIEW OF THE VILLAGE OF PEMBERTON
You are invited to attend a commercial overview of the Village of Pemberton. "Can we develop a walkable, friendly, vibrant Village?" Drew Meredith, Resident of Pemberton & Commercial Realtor will be giving a free presentation at Pemberton Community Centre.
Date: April 10, 2008
Time: 7 - 9 p.m.
For more information call Drew 604-905-2843

DEMYSTIFY THE RFP BID PROCESS
Facilitator - Betty MacLeod, Senior Manager Olympic Business Development, Royal Bank of Canada
Date: April 29, 2008
Time: 8 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Location: SLRD Office - 1350 Aster Street
Cost: $20 (make cheques payable to Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce)
Pre-registration required. Call 604-905-8672 or email edc.alex@telus.net

TALK DIRTY - GARDENING IN THE PEMBERTON VALLEY
First in a series of talks.
Guest speakers: Jeanette, Doug & Anna Helmer
Date: April 27, 2008
Time: 7-9 p.m.
Location: Lillooet River Lodge, 1428 Pemberton Farm Road
Cost: $10.00
Topics covered: composting, soil management & preparation (the recipe for dynamite dirt), crop rotation & selection, greenhouse growing. A one hour talk followed by a question & answer period.
Please RSVP Allison at 604-900-8246, lillooetriverlodge@telus.net

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES
Pemberton Map/Brochure: Ads are now being accepted for the 2008 Chamber Map/Brochure.
For information and to book a space call 604-894-6477 or email info@pembertonchamber.com

CHAMBER LOGO CONTEST: Deadline extended to April 25, 2008
Get your creative juices flowing! The Pemberton Chamber is accepting submissions for a new LOGO for the Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce. The winning logo will receive $250.00.
Disclaimer: All entries become the property of the Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce. A suitable logo may or may not be selected from the submissions received.

EARTH DAY
A reminder, mark you calendar now - Earth Day is April 22, 2008 this is a good chance to do some spring cleaning in your yard or neighbourhood!

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIPS
Have you renewed your membership? A 2008 Renewal & Membership form is available on the Chamber website. Your early renewal will ensure you are listed in the 2008 Membership Directory.

It's time once again for the Pemberton Visitors’ Guide (PVG). Now in it's seventh year, PVG continues to grow with the community.

As the official guide of Tourism Pemberton, 10,000 copies of the Pemberton Visitors’ Guide will be published, providing an excellent opportunity to put your business in front of locals and the 20,000 plus visitors that stop at the Pemberton Visitor Info Centre yearly, not to mention the thousands coming for the Pemberton Festival on July 25-27 and the visitors that find their copy of PVG at various locations throughout Pemberton, Whistler and BC.

Please find attached a rate sheet (available in PDF format) for this year's edition. The publishers are offering a 15% discount for all Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce members.

Please contact Kevin Mikkelsen as soon as possible if you would like to advertise, as they are quickly approaching the closing date for this year’s edition. PVG will be published May 15, just in time for the opening of the Pemberton Visitor Info Centre for the season.

For more information contact:
Kevin Mikkelsen
Advertising Sales - Special Projects
Whistler Question/Whistler This Week
604-932-5131 (office)
604-902-1771 (cell)
604-932-2862 (fax)
kevinm@whistlerquestion.com

Welcome to new members:
Shaw Creek Farms, Canwest Propane, Walsh Restoration dba Walsh Construction Ltd., PAWS Pemberton Animal Well Being Society, Pemberton Wildlife Association, Pemberton Trails Association, Agel Enterprises, Matt McDonald Electric Inc., Mount Currie Coffee Co., Canadian Outdoor Adventures Inc., J.T. Heavy Equipment Repair Ltd., Lisa Ames -Realtor, Bunbury & Associates Land Surveying Limited

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIPS
To ensure you are in the 2008 Chamber membership Directory and to remain listed on the Chamber website please submit your membership fee before May 19, 2008. The New Membership & Renewal form is available on the Chamber website.

DEMYSTIFY THE RFP BID PROCESS
Facilitator: Betty MacLeod, Senior Manager Olympic Business Development, Royal Bank of Canada
Date: April 29, 2008
Time: 8 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Location: SLRD Office - 1350 Aster Street
Cost: $15 (make cheques payable to Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce)
Pre-registration required.
Contact Info: 604-905-8672 or edc.alex@telus.net

CHAMBER LUNCH
Date: Thursday, May 15, 2008
Time: Noon
Location: Pemberton Museum, Prospect Street
Guest Speaker: Shane Bourbonnais, Live Nation "Pemberton Festival Update"
Cost: $15.00 (cash or cheque payable to Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce)
Reservations Required as Space is Limited
Contact Info: info@pembertonchamber.com or 604-894-6477

MOVE FOR HEALTH DAY
Date: Saturday, May 10, 2008
Location: Pemberton Community Centre
Time: 10 a.m. - Noon
Cost: FREE
Organized by the Pemberton Active Community Committee
Did you know that as an 'Active Community" in B.C. our goal is to increase physical activity in Pemberton by 20% by the year 2010? Healthy living doesn't have to be complicated. There are lots of easy ways to work activity into our daily routines that don't involve classes, equipment or going to the gym; walking, shopping, gardening, playing, working around the house are just to name a few. Come and meet key people in our community who are increasing health and awareness in our area through healthy eating, physical activities and healing. All ages, all are welcome.
IT'S FREE, IT'S FUN IT'S FOR EVERYONE

Download a MOVE FOR HEALTH flier

NEW MEMBERS

Pemberton General Store, Pemberton & District Museum & Archives Society, DiCarlo's Italian Restaurant, Ion Ways Filtered Water Systems, S. Ross Sherwood, Home Comforts Bed & Breakfast, Meadows at Pemberton

NEW CHAMBER LOGO

We are pleased to announce that the Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce has a new Chamber Logo designed by Michel Kuyek of Heritage Signworks. Watch for the new logo to appear shortly on our website. We would like to thank all those who entered our Logo Design contest.

CHAMBER LUNCHEON

Date: Thursday, May 29, 2008
Location: Meadows at Pemberton (formerly Pemberton Valley Golf & Country Club)
Time: Noon
Cost: $15.00
Guest Speakers: Kim Landry, Colin Johnson - "GEMS Education"
Pre-registration Required: email info@pembertonchamber.com or call the Visitor Centre 604-894-6175

SUMMER WORKS APPLICATION DENIED

The is the first year in many that our application for summer students to work at the Pemberton Visitor Centre was denied. Three students were applied for to help operate the Pemberton Visitor Centre in what is expected to be a very busy year particularly during the Pemberton Festival. Every effort will be made to give the best service possible with limited staff.

RICK HANSEN WHEELS IN MOTION EVENTS

This is the 5th year that there has been a Rick Hansen Wheel in Motion event held in Pemberton. Through the generous donations raised over the past 4 years ($10,000 was matched totaling over $20,000) funds have come back to communities through the Quality of Life program. The wheelchair picnic table at One Mile Lake and trail work to the community garden were recipients of those funds in Pemberton. Scotiabank matches all funds raised.

Walk, run, cycle, rollerblade, or come in a wheelchair

Date: Sunday - June 8, 2008
Time: Registration 8 a.m. Start 9:00 a.m.
Location: Pemberton Community Centre
Pledge Sheets Available at: Pemberton Visitor Centre, Pemberton Community Centre & Scotiabank

... and join in the fundraising event for the Rick Hansen Foundation hosted by Blackcomb Trail Rides.

HORSE, TRAIL RIDE & BARBEQUE

Date: Sunday, June 8, 2008
Location: Dudley & Jan Kennett's, Pemberton Meadows Road
Time: Noon - 8 p.m.
Admission by donation - Pledge sheets at the Animal Barn
Live Entertainment at the campfire. Wagon rides, croquet tournament, horseshoe tournament. Fun for all ages.

INCREASE YOU BUSINESS AND YOUR REVENUE - Secure your contracts

The use of the RFP process for the securing of goods and services increases each year.
- discover ways to leverage the RFP process and grow your business without actually responding to an RFP
- understand how the RPF process can be used to benefit your own company in securing goods and services
- leverage the many opportunities as a result of major events held in the Sea to Sky corridor
- interested in the thousands of contracts still to be awarded as a result of the 2010 Winter Games

The workshop will provide the opportunity to understand the components of the RFP and learn how to respond to an RFP. Participants will also be provided with the where to find RFP's, questions to ask to assist in deciding whether to bid or not to bid on a particular opportunity, and all the various components of an RFP and what makes for a successful proposal.

The workshop is conducted by facilitators who are entrepreneurs and have both experiences with private and public sector RFP's and can speak from first hand experience.

If you are interested in this workshop and would like more information, please call Alexandra Ross, EDC for Pemberton and Area C at 604-905-8672

CHAMBER 2008 MEMBERSHIPS NOW DUE

Don't forget to get your Chamber memberships in if you want to be listed on the Chamber Website and the 2008 Directory. Forms are available on the Chamber website.

WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS

• Pemberton General Store
• Pemberton & District Museum & Archives Society
• Di'Carlos Italian Restaurant
• IonWays Filtered Water Systems
• S.Ross Sherwood
• Home Comforts B & B
• Meadows at Pemberton
• Pemberton Stables Inc.
• Whistler Bungee Inc.
• The Mute Raven Studio
• Birken Lakeside Resort

COMMUNITY FOCUS GROUPS ON ARTS, CULTURE & HERITAGE

The Sea to Sky Economic Impact Study of Arts, Heritage and Culture is nearing completion. To date, over 250 artists, community stakeholders and arts organizations have completed a survey to help determine the size and impact of the cultural sector from Lions Bay to the Pemberton Valley. The next step in the study is to host a series of community focus groups to present the preliminary results, generate feedback and discuss future steps to strengthen the cultural sector.

DATE: Fri. June 27th, 9 a.m. - 12 noon.
LOCATION: SLRD Board Room, 1350 Aster St., Pemberton
REGISTRATION: Online at www.seatoskycorridor.ca or by phone at 1-866-680-3926 (ext.307)

Meetings are open to artists, arts organizations, community stakeholders and residents who are generally interested in seeing the arts flourish in their communities.

BUSINESS NEWS

From the desk of Rick Thorpe, BC Minister of Small Business and Revenue

British Columbia has launched Straightforward BC; Regulation, Clear and Simple, a progress report on our government's drive to reduce red tape, and a commitment to a zero net increase in government regulations through 2012.

We commit to holding the line on red tape, with our goal to ensuring any new regulations are clear and easy to understand. For every new regulation introduced over the next four years, one or more unnecessary regulations will be cut.

The benefits of regulatory reform are not limited to small business owners; every citizen benefits when government forms and processes are streamlined and simplified.

The combination of the provinces' regulatory reform model and significant personal and all business tax reductions has helped transform British Columbia into Canada's most business friendly province and indeed, the best place on earth.

PACIFIC NORTHWEST ECONOMIC REGION 18th ANNUAL SUMMIT

DATE: July 20 to 24
LOCATION: The Westin Bayshore, Vancouver
REGISTRATION: Register online or for updated agenda please visit www.pnwer.org/2008summit.

INCREASE YOUR BUSINESS & YOUR REVENUE, SECURE YOUR CONTRACTS

The workshop will provide the opportunity to understand the components of the RFP and learn how to respond to an RFP. Deadline for Registration - June 20, 2008

FACILITATOR: Royal Bank of Canada
DATE: Thursday, June 26, 2008
TIME: 8:30 to 12:30 p.m.
WHERE: 1350 Aster Street ,Pemberton - SLRD Board Room
COST: $20.00
RSVP: edc.alex@telus.net or call 604-905-8672

Greetings Pemberton Businesses,

The latest Pemberton improvement project that the Pemberton Rotary Club is working on involves both the Pemberton Chamber of Commerce as well as the Rotary Club. Over the last few years the Pemberton Rotary Club has targeted Earth Day as an opportunity to beautify and create parkland for Pemberton. Our large projects have included the park adjacent to the Health Care Centre and the park adjacent to the Visitors Center.

Please see the photo of the Inukshuk that we are proposing for the Chamber Park, adjacent to the Pemberton Visitors Centre. This project will make a bold statement to residents and visitors as they enter our town and also serve as an incentive to visitors to stop, have their photos taken in front of the Inukshuk with Mt. Currie in the background and also go into the Visitors Centre and learn what the Pemberton area has to offer and therefore act as a stimulus to business and tourism in the area. (And it will look beautiful!)

The attached photo is similar in size to the one we will have. Northwest Landscape Supply out of Squamish supplied and installed the one in the photo outside the adventure centre in Squamish and they will be supplying the rocks for ours. I told them that through the Chamber and the Rotary Club we will be able to source volunteer trucking, prep and labour for installation. The retail cost for the rocks is $6000. I am confident that you, the members of the Pemberton Business Community will support this project financially so we are able to order the rocks.

I hope to have the Inukshuk in place in the next 2-3 weeks.

Please confirm your acknowledgment and support of this project by way of a donation so the rocks can be ordered. For more information, please contact Lisa Ames at 604-932-1661.

Regards,
Lisa Ames
Rotary Club of Pemberton Centennial

News from the Pemberton & Chamber of Commerce for July 14, 2008

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS

Welcome to our new Pemberton & District Chamber members!

• Ken Kerton
• Whistler Skydiving Inc.
• Blackcomb Trail Rides
• The Cottage B & B on Lillooet Lake
• Whistler Jetboating

NEW ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT WEBSITE

Alexandra Ross, our Economic Development Consultant, is pleased to announce that the new Pemberton Economic Development website which is now online at www.edcpemberton.com.

This website was built by Pemberton's Custom Fit Online Solutions using a content management system and integrated blog that allows easy management of the website by Pemberton EDC personnel without any technical knowledge and limited training. Learn more about the Pemberton EDC site's technical capabilities.

SPECIAL PROJECTS GRANT FOR VISITOR CENTRE

The Pemberton Visitor Centre is pleased to announce the creation of a new computer system. This new special projects upgrade will enhance the visitor experience at the VC and improve tourism in the community.

The new office equipment was made possible through a $3,550 Special Projects grant from Tourism British Columbia. Tourism British Columbia makes Special Projects funding available to Visitor Centres for projects and services that will enhance the visitor experience and services at the Visitor Centre.

The Pemberton Visitor Centre is one of 109 community-operated Visitor Centres across the province.

Visitor Centres are community operated under the direction of Tourism British Columbia. Tourism British Columbia is a Crown corporation that operates under an industry-led board of directors and is responsible for marketing the Super, Natural British Columbia® brand to the world.

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERS
Welcome to our new Chamber Members...

• Pemberton Valley Dyking District
• 818242 BC Ltd.
• Local Motion Therapy
• Pacific Onsite Solutions Inc.
• Rotary Club of Pemberton Centennial

PEMBERTON FESTIVAL
Congratulations to Live Nation for a very successful Pemberton Festival! To the many volunteers and staff who worked tirelessly, and the Pemberton residents who welcomed our visitors, a special THANK YOU!

PEMBERTON FOUNDATION
As a result of the very successful Pemberton Festival. Live Nation is donating $106,000 to the Pemberton Foundation for distribution in the form of grants to qualifying community organizations. All interested organizations may apply for an application form by writing to Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce, Box 370, Pemberton, BC, V0N 2L0 or email info@pembertonchamber.com.

ROTARY / CHAMBER GOLF TOURNAMENT
On September 19 the Rotary Club of Pemberton Centennial and the Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce will be joining together to sponsor their 3rd Golf Tournament to be held at The Meadows at Pemberton. Get more information and download a registration / sponsorship form.

PEMBERTON EQUIFEST 2008
The Annual Pemberton Equifest is scheduled for September 6 & 7 at Rohan Stables on Clover Road. This family event features Gymkana games, demonstrations, cattle cutting, team sorting, team roping, away roping, mutton busting, archery, D'Arcy 4-h Achievement Day, hoof & woof obstacle, speed jumping plus a solar powered road show, horse power car show and a Dinner & Dance on Sept. 6 at the Community Centre with the "Clumsy Lovers Band" For detailed info go to www.pembertonequifest.com.

NEW PEMBERTON WEBSITES
Check out the following new Pemberton websites - Economic Development available at www.edcpemberton.com and the Pemberton Museum online at www.pembertonmuseum.org. Both websites were developed by Pemberton's own Custom Fit Online Solutions.

SLOW FOOD CYCLE SUNDAY
Congratulations to the organizers of the Slow Food Cycle Sunday which unofficially apparently had 2,100 participants.

Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce Newsletter - November 2, 2008

MUNICIPAL ELECTION "ALL CANDIDATES" MEETING

An all Candidates Meeting for the Municipal Elections will be hosted at the new Pemberton Community Centre. A "Meet and Greet the Candidates" time will occur prior to the All Candidates Meeting.

DATE: Thursday November 6
TIME: Meet & Greet the Candidates - 6:30 to 7:00 p.m.; All Candidates Meeting - 7:30 p.m.

SEA TO SKY "PUTTING CHILDREN FIRST" MEETING

DATE: Thursday, November 13
TIME: 7:00 to 9:00 p.m.

An invitation to all Community Members. You are invited to a Community Meeting at the NEW Community Centre. The meeting will focus on making things better for young children (0 to 6 years) and their families. Free Child minding provided. Light refreshments too!

The meeting is hosted by the Sea to Sky Putting Children First ECD Initiative (PCIF). Kate Sutherland will be facilitating this community forum. Kate has a vast background in community development and planning and co-facilitated the Food Security Forums in Whistler, Squamish and Pemberton two years ago.

Anyone requiring child minding please contact Jane Balance, 604-815-9115

NOVEMBER WORKSHOP SERIES

WORKSHOP #1

"Prepare Your Business for 2010 & Beyond "
DATE: Thursday, November 20, 2008
TIME: 8:30a.m. (4 hours)
LOCATION: 1350 Aster Street, SLRD Board Room
FEE: $30.00
FACITATOR: Jenny Helmer

Prepare your business for NOW, 2010 and beyond. Your road map to success starts with a well defined business plan. Proactively plan and prepare with a professional business plan. Your written plan describes what you plan to achieve, gives you a guide to follow and defines your business success. At the end of the workshop, you will leave with the completed framework for your successful business plan.

Pre-registration required. Call 604-905-8672 or email edc.alex@telus.net

WORKSHOP #2

"Marketing Plans Made Easy " - A road map to boosting your business
DATE: Tuesday, November 25, 2008
TIME: 8:30 A.M. (1.5 hours)
LOCATION: 1350 Aster Street, SLRD Board Room
FEE: $20.00
FACILITATOR: Betsy Linnell

Marketing plans should be more than an annual document that gathers dust on a shelf. Business owners and managers will learn how to develop quick and effective plans to help them focus on specific areas of business that will bring the greatest return, and how to develop the tactics to get there.

About Betsy Linnell, Owner - Betsy Linnell Marketing Management

With over 13 years of experience as a successful marketer, Betsy formerly held the positions of Manger, Brand and Destination Marketing and Marketing Manager for Whistler Blackcomb, the leading ski resort in North America. Her responsibilities included brand management, marketing strategy, advertising and collateral development, research, direct marketing, photography and marketing services. Betsy now offers the benefit of this experience to local businesses. Betsy Linnell Marketing Management provides flexible marketing management solutions ranging from the comprehensive development of marketing plans and tactics, to the fulfillment of specific marketing needs on a project basis.

Pre-registration required. Call 604-905-8672 or email edc.alex@telus.net

WORKSHOP #3

"What's Next? A guide to efficiency & productivity in your business"
DATE: November 25, 2008
TIME: 10:30 a.m (1.5 hours)
LOCATION: 1350 Aster Street, SLRD Board Room
FEE: $20.00
FACILITATOR: Valerie Low

You've decided to start a business and have created the perfect business plan. So what's next? How do you implement your plan and build a successful business? Discover the keys to a smooth running company and learn practical steps of setting up a business.

About Val Low, Path Clear Solutions

As a business consultant, Val works with entrepreneurs who want their businesses to run smoothly so they have more time, more money and more fun. Through organizing and implementing administrative systems, she brings clarity and focus into business owners' ventures. Val is a member of the Professional Organizers of Canada and a Premier Advisor for Simply Accounting.

Pre-registration required. Call 604-905-8672 or email edc.alex@telus.net

WORKSHOP PACKAGE RATES

Package 1: All 3 workshops. $60.00
Package 2: Workshops #2 and #3 on Nov. 25. $30
Package 3: Workshop #1 plus one of your choice on Nov. 25. $40

CANADIAN CANCER SOCIETY SEEING VOLUNTEERS

The Canadian Cancer Society is looking for volunteers. Are you a natural leader, skilled at motivating people and passionate about the cancer cause, a communicator with a sense of vision and a solid understanding of your community? If so, consider joining The Canadian Cancer Society as a LEADERSHIP VOLUNTEER. Their volunteer leadership team supported by staff partners will ensure that Canadian Cancer Society support programs, fund raising efforts and prevention messages are making an impact in Whistler/Pemberton.

To find out more, contact Kim Aubert at 1-888-229-8288 ext.222 or kaubert@bc.cancer.ca

Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce Newsletter - November 18, 2008

Congratulations to Newly Elected

Congratulations to the newly elected Village of Pemberton Council:

• Mayor: Jordan Sturdy
• Councillors: Ted Craddock, Lisa Ames, Susie Gimse, Alan LeBlanc
• School Trustee: David Walden

Inaugural Meeting - Monday, December 1, 2008 at 7 p.m. in the Grand Hall at the New Community Centre.

Come and welcome your new council at this swearing in ceremony and inaugural meeting. The first regular meeting of Council will be held on December 2, 2008 at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers (above the Firehall) on Aster Street.

Christmas Function Re-scheduled

The Chamber Christmas function originally scheduled for Nov 28th has been rescheduled. The Annual General Meeting of the Chamber will be held at Big Sky Golf & Country Club on Thursday, January 28, 2009. The presentation of the Citizen Business of the Year 2008 awards will be presented at this time. Nominations have been extended for Citizen and Business of the Year until January 5, 2009.

Viewing of Documentary "Planet Earth" & "Running Cool" at Copperdome Lodge

Ian and Michelle Porter, owners of the Copperdome Lodge in the Pemberton Meadows, invite Pemberton and District Chamber of Commerce members and guests to a movie night. "Cool Running" will be shown first followed by a couple of episodes of Planet Earth, a stunning documentary developed by the BBC. Shot in High Definition, the BBC film crew travelled the world for 4 years to complete the series. The documentary will be viewed on the Lodge's 144" projection screen and the effect is really great.

Where: Copperdome Lodge, Pemberton Valley
Date: Friday November 21, 2008
Time: Doors Open @ 6:30 p.m., Show starts at 7:00 p.m.
Ian and Michelle are providing wine & cheese and doors open at 6:30 with the show starting at 7 p.m.

Please RSVP by e-mail to Copperdome@telus.net
The Lodge is about 17km from the Village out the Pemberton Meadows Road

Upcoming Christmas Community Events

Mark you calendar for these events...

• November 30th - Santa PAWS - at 2 p.m. at the Firehall. Get your pet's photo taken with Santa. Hot dogs & Hot Chocolate. Minimum $10 donation. Sponsored by PAWS
• December 6th - Christmas Craft Fair - Old Community Centre 10 a.m. Sponsored by St. David's United Church
• December 7th - Santa in the Park -Pioneer Park - 2 - 3 p.m. Free. Hot dogs, hot chocolate, Children's Choir, sponsored by the Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce
• December 20th - Santa at the Museum - 11a.m.-1 p.m. Hot dogs hot chocolate, marshmallow roast. Sponsored by the Pemberton & District Museum & Archives Society.

The Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce is soliciting nominations from the communities of Pemberton, Mt. Currie, Birken and D’Arcy for the 2008 business person(s) and citizen of the year awards.

The nomination date has bee extended until January 5, 2009. The awards will be presented at the PDCofC Annual General Meeting in early 2009.

Download a Registration Form and enter your nominees today!

Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce AGM

Date: Thursday, January 29,2009
Location: Big Sky Golf & Country Club
Times: Cocktails - 6p.m., AGM - 6:30 p.m. - Election of Executive & Directors, Dinner - 7 p.m.
Agenda: Guest Speaker - Maureen Douglas, Director Community Relations VANOC; Presentation of Citizen & Business of the Year awards.

Tickets: Available at Pemberton Valley Supermarket for $30.00 per person.

Pemberton & District 2009 Citizen/Business of the Year

Voting closes on January 18, 2009 at midnight. Click Here to VOTE ONLINE.

Please note:

• One vote per computer (person or business).
• Your name and phone number is required to vote but this information will never be associated with your vote.
• If you experience any difficulties voting please contact our Webmaster directly via email at webmaster@pembertonchamber.com

A message from our friends organizing the Gates Lake Shinny Tourney...

Please drag your sleds, your cross country skis, your sleds, your kids, your mother-in-laws and come up to Birken for a Great day of Great Canadian Fun and Support the Birken Volunteer Fire Dept in our Shinny Tournament....

Saturday Feburary 7, 2009.

Go go go to www.birkenbc.ca and get the details of how to find your way up and out....

You'll be so happy that you did!

Thanks for your support!

Bid for Business

RFP: Creative Writer for 2010 Business Success Stories

The Whistler Chamber of Commerce is looking for a creative writer to research and write success stories about local or regional businesses benefiting directly or indirectly from the 2010 Winter Games.

For more information click here.

RMOW Tenders & RFPs

Operation of Food and Beverage Concessions at Lost Lake, and/or Spruce Grove, and/or Rainbow Park.

RFP packages are available at the RMOW Municipal Hall (4325 Blackcomb Way).

To see all open bids click here.

NEW DIRECTORS & MEMBERS

Welcome to our new members!
Stephanie Coughlin, Black's Hot Wheels, Danielle Menzel, 646862 BC Ltd.

New Chamber Board of Directors for 2009
President: Sandy Ryan
Vice- President: Paul Vacirca
Secretary Treasurer: Shirley Henry
Directors: Lisa Ames, John Beks, Gord Bell, Greg Bikadi, Mark Blundell, Colin Johnson, Cam McIvor, Alexandra Ross
Past President - Paul Selina

ALL CANDIDATES MEETING

An all candidates meeting for the upcoming Provincial Election will be hosted by the Chamber of Commerce.
DATE: Wednesday, April 15, 2009
TIME: 7 to 9-p.m.
LOCATION: Pemberton Community Centre, Cottonwood Street
Come and meet the candidates and hear their platforms.

GAMES TOWN 2010 - PEMBERTON TO WIN GOLD!

The Province of British Columbia announced in late February, an initiative to promote healthy living, and Olympic and community spirit.

Premier Gordon Campbell has said about GamesTown 2010; "In just under one year's time, our province will be hosting the world for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. GamesTown 2010 is a great way for all communities in our province to participate in the excitement leading up to the Games."

This is a great way to showcase Pemberton; as well as our healthy living lifestyle. Community entries will be judged on: the creativity and enthusiasm of their submissions; a variety of healthy living and environmental sustainability criteria, such as the level of community engagement at recreation facilities and in amateur sports; the community's participation in the World Healthy Living Challenge; its commitment to environmental sustainability initiatives; and how active the community is in incorporating the Olympic and Paralympic theme in its current activities and plans for the year ahead.

The Gold Medal prize is $100,000 to be used to update an existing recreational facility, or build towards a new one. There are also Silver, and Bronze Medal prizes of $50,000 and $25,000.

We as a community need to spread the word about this terrific event. Pass this release along to anyone in the community you feel would be interested. There are a lot of prizes to give away, and exposure to our community.

For more information please go to www.gamestown2010.ca, there is already a profile created for Pemberton, and all we have to do is keep adding stories!

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITY

Chamber members are encouraged to participate in an advertising opportunity which speaks directly to visitors when they are making a decision to travel and stay in our community.

Resort TV is producing for the 5th season the "Discover Pemberton" video which plays to the 1.2 million summer visitors staying in the 5,000+ hotel and condo rooms in Whistler. As well, the video is posted on the Pemberton Chamber website and free to any member businesses to embed on their own website. The 2009 show will be ready to air before the May long weekend.

Download more information and rates for Chamber members at: http://www.pembertonchamber.com/media/discover-pemberton-2009-resort-tv.pdf

ALL CANDIDATES MEETING

The Pemberton & District Chamber of Commerce is pleased to sponsor an All Candidates Meeting for the upcoming Provincial Election. Meet the candidates for the Pemberton area.

DATE: Wednesday, April 15, 2009
LOCATION: Pemberton Community Centre, Cottonwood Street
TIME: 7 p.m.
Mark your calendar now!

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES

Resort TV is producing for the 5th season the "Discover Pemberton" video which plays to the 1.2 million summer visitors staying in the Whistler Hotels 7 Condo rooms. As well this video is posted on our Chamber website. And is free to any member businesses to embed on their own website.

The 2009 show will be ready to air before the May long weekend. Download more information and rates for Pemberton Chamber Members.

Book you ad now for the 2009 Pemberton Visitors Guide which is published by the Whistler Question. This publication is distributed at the Pemberton Visitor Centre and through out the Region. Visitors requesting Pemberton information are mailed this publication. Book your ad before April 16, 2009 Pemberton Chamber members will receive a discounted rate.

Download PVG Rates and Info.

NEW SENIORS HOUSING FOR PEMBERTON

Eighteen new modular housing units for seniors and persons with disabilities will be created in Pemberton, announced West-Vancouver Garibaldi MLA Joan McInytre. The units will be constructed on the Lions Club land on Flint Street.

SYNCWAVE ENERGY PROJECT RECEIVES GRANT

The Province of BC's Innovative Clean energy Fund (ICE) has awarded SyncWave Energy Inc. $2million toward a demonstration of their SyncWave Power Resonator technology off the West Coast of Vancouver Island in 2011. SyncWave Power Resonator (SPR) technology was invented by SyncWave Eneregy Inc. (SE!) of Pemberton BC with scientists from the University of Victoria and engineered for the open ocean with Marinus Power LLC of Houston Texas.

DOWNTOWN ENHANCEMENT WORKSHOPS

The Village of Pemberton is holding the following Workshops:

April 29, 2009
1. Stakeholders/Landowner Walking Tour -1 to 2:30p.m (meet at Village Offices)
2. Issue Identification Workshop - 2:30 to 4 p.m. ( meet at Village Offices )
3. Community Presentation on "Achieving Great Downtowns - 7 to 9 p.m. - Room C, Community Centre

April 30,2009
4. Stakeholder/Landowner Design Workshop - 10 a.m. to 3p.m. - Room C Community Centre
5. Community Open House of Downtown Potential - 7 to 9 p.m. - Room C Community Centre

For more information & to register contact Caroline Lamont - 604-894-6135 ext 234 or clamont@pemberton.ca

ELECTION WORKERS

Elections BC is now hiring election workers for the upcoming provincial election and referendum on electoral reform. For more information Contact elections BC 1-800-661-8683 or check the Elections BC Website.

2009 CHAMBER MEMBERSHIPS DUE

Have your renewed your Chamber Membership for 2009? A renewal form is available on the Pemberton & District Chamber website.

DATE: Wed. Apr. 22, 2009
LOCATION: Meadows Golf Course
TIME: Noon
COST: $15.00

Guest Speaker:
Joan McIntrye, Liberal Candidate, West Vancouver - Sea to Sky

Please reserve
Phone: 604-894-6477
Email: info@pembertonchamber.com