News
Residents cast ballot for Vote Vernon shop local campaign
VERNON – Vernon residents have been enthusiastically demonstrating their love for local as they prepare for Christmas festivities. Since its launch Nov. 27, Vote Vernon Presented by VantageOne Credit Union has promoted the significance of Greater Vernon businesses, whether it is in-person, by delivery or via the Internet. “We have been overwhelmed by the popularity of Vote Vernon and the willingness of residents to support their friends, neighbours and families by making purchases with local merchants or
Greater Vernon Chamber stands up for distilleries
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is urging the federal and provincial governments to do the right thing and rally behind distillers who have done their part in the fight against Covid-19. In letters to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Premier John Horgan, as well as their respective finance ministers, the Chamber calls for distilleries to be acknowledged for the enormous contribution they have made producing sanitizer.“Sanitizer was in significant demand, and, in most cases, distillers
Chamber calls for land to be acquired for provincial park
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is urging the provincial government to create a legacy that will drive economic growth and strengthen the community for decades to come. In a letter to Premier John Horgan and Environment Minister George Heyman, the government is asked to acquire a 234-acre property at 9747 Cameron Road, and that the property be included within the adjacent Ellison Provincial Park. “With tourism an increasingly important anchor to the economy, preserving sandy beaches
Greater Vernon Chamber responds to 2020 provincial budget
Feb. 18, 2020 – The 2020 provincial budget does little to ease the burden business faces or to promote competitiveness, says the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce. On Feb. 18, Finance Minister Carole James tabled the government’s financial plan in the Legislature in Victoria. “There was absolutely nothing meaningful in the budget for entrepreneurs, and particularly for the small and medium-sized businesses that are the backbone of the North Okanagan’s economy,” said Dione Chamber, Greater Vernon
Registrations for Community Expo 25 per cent sold out
JAN. 7, 2020 – A significant opportunity exists for local businesses and non-profits to enhance their profile with thousands of North Okanagan residents. Early bird registration is currently underway for the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce’s second annual Community Expo March 14 at Kal Tire Place North. Expo is presented by Lake City Casino and Match Eatery and Public House. “Our inaugural Expo in 2019 was an overwhelming success and we are confident the 2020 event will allow businesses and community
Chamber connects young entrepreneurs with mentors
JAN. 6, 2019 – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce wants to ensure that young entrepreneurs have a solid foundation moving into 2020. On Jan. 30, the Chamber is hosting speed mentoring for entrepreneurs under the age of 40 in partnership with Futurpreneur. “A significant challenge for a new business owner or someone who has a vision is pulling together all of the information needed for those initial first steps and preparing for long-term success,” said Dione Chambers, Greater Vernon Chamber general
Greater Vernon Chamber launches Shop Local Contest
VERNON – Greater Vernon residents can celebrate the season of giving while supporting their favourite local business.The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the Don’t Be a Grinch, Shop Local contest until Dec. 11 and one lucky individual could win their purchase up to a maximum of $500.“Local business owners are our friends, neighbours and family. They create employment opportunities and donate to our sports teams and non-profits,” said Dione Chambers, Greater Vernon Chamber general manager.“By
Greater Vernon Chamber supports Kelowna International Airport
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce endorses measures that will permit Kelowna International Airport to respond to growth and continue to serve as the gateway to the Okanagan.On Nov. 4, Kelowna city council gave three readings to bylaw amendments that will increase the airport improvement fee from $20 to $25 March 1, 2020, while it’s proposed that landing and terminal fees will increase two per cent.“YLW is critical to the economy of the North Okanagan as it allows investors and visitors to
Greater Vernon Chamber partners with The Local Gift Card
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is excited to participate in a new initiative that promotes small business while encouraging residents to shop local. As part of Small Business Week, the Chamber has partnered with The Local Gift Card, an Okanagan-based program that can be used at local, participating businesses.“Gift cards have been around for a long time, but Sarah Coffey had the vision to embrace the growing desire of local residents to support small entrepreneurs right here at home,” said
Greater Vernon Chamber responds to federal election
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce will continue to speak on behalf of its members and the community as Canada adjusts to a new political landscape.On Oct. 21, the Conservatives held on to the riding of North Okanagan-Shuswap, while the Liberal Party formed a minority government nationally.“Our Chamber congratulates Mel Arnold on his re-election as our member of Parliament and we look forward to continuing our positive relationship with him. We also want to thank the local candidates from the
Greater Vernon Chamber announces Business Excellence winners
VERNON – The best in business and community service were celebrated during the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce’s Business Excellence Awards Oct. 18.Before 346 people at the Prestige Vernon Lodge, awards were handed out in 13 categories at the Godfather-themed gala.“There was considerable excitement as the winner in each category was revealed, and we want to acknowledge all of the hard work, dedication and risk-taking involved to make their business or non-profit a success. We also pay tribute to all of
Greater Vernon all-candidates forum Oct. 8
Greater Vernon residents are reminded that there is an opportunity to hear directly from the North Okanagan-Shuswap federal candidates.On Oct. 8, the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce and the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre Society will host a federal all-candidates forum. The event is also sponsored by the B.C. Fruit Growers Association and Castanet.“We are encouraging the public to take part in the forum as this is a great chance to learn about the candidates, their parties and their platforms
Chamber resolution on distillery taxes endorsed nationally
Momentum is increasing to have Canada’s distilleries placed on an equal footing with other alcohol producers.Delegates at the recent Canadian Chamber of Commerce conference in Saint John, N.B. gave 99 per cent support to a resolution from the Greater Vernon Chamber that urges the federal government to reduce the excise tax on distilled spirits to $1.77 per litre on the first 150,000 litres of absolute alcohol, and to match the excise rate in the U.S. on an ongoing basis on an ongoing basis.“Chambers of
Greater Vernon federal forum set for Oct. 8
VERNON – With the federal election just a month away, Greater Vernon residents and business owners will have an opportunity to learn more about the candidates and the party platforms.On Oct. 8, the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce and the Vernon and District Performing Arts Centre Society will host a federal all-candidates forum. The event is also sponsored by the B.C. Fruit Growers Association and Castanet.“We are excited to bring together residents and business leaders so they can hear directly from the
Cooperative approach needed to resolve forest crisis
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is calling for B.C.’s elected officials to set aside their differences and collectively find solutions that support the forest sector and communities.The Chamber has written to Premier John Horgan, official opposition leader Andrew Wilkinson and Green Party leader Andrew Weaver.“Mill operations are either being shut down or curtailed, impacting thousands of workers and their families as well as those associated with private contractors and suppliers. Given the
Finalists announced for Chamber Business Excellence Awards
VERNON – The finalists have been revealed for the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce’s prestigious 2019 Business Excellence Awards.During a cocktail reception at the Vernon Performing Arts Centre Sept. 4, the top three finalists in each of 11 categories were announced.“The energy was electrifying as the names were called, and while there are just three finalists per category, we believe all of the nominees should be celebrated because of the contributions they provide to our region and economy,” said Dione
Chamber announces nominees for Business Excellence Awards
VERNON – With much anticipation, the nominees have been announced for the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce’s 2019 Business Excellence Awards.Local residents went above and beyond, nominating close to 300 businesses, non-profits and individuals in 11 distinct categories.“We want to thank the public for their participation in the process, and the nominations clearly demonstrate the entrepreneurial spirit. It’s also truly inspiring to see how each of the nominees contribute to the overall well-being of the
Greater Vernon Chamber advocates for members on provincial issues
The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce ensured that its members and a strong economy were a priority during a meeting with high-level provincial officials.On July 23, representatives from 11 Thompson-Okanagan chambers of commerce participated in a regional consultation with senior provincial civil servants from 12 government ministries.“This was a tremendous opportunity to provide the Interior perspective on several critical matters that impact the ability to do business in our region, while we were also
Nominations open for Business Excellence Awards
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is getting ready to recognize the best in business.Nominations are open for the 2019 Business Excellence Awards presented by Valley First until noon July 15, and the winners will be unveiled at a gala Oct. 18 at the Vernon Lodge Hotel.“The Business Excellence Awards are among the signature events in Vernon and we anticipate a lot of interest and enthusiasm surrounding the nomination process,” said Dione Chambers, Greater Vernon Chamber general manager.“We
Chamber resolution on distillery taxes endorsed provincially
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce’s campaign to have the distilled spirits sector treated progressively and fairly has been endorsed provincially.On May 25, delegates at the B.C. Chamber of Commerce conference in Burnaby approved a resolution from the Greater Vernon Chamber that calls on the federal government to reduce the excise tax on distilled spirits to $1.77 per litre on the first 150,000 litres of absolute alcohol, and to match the excise rate in the U.S. on an ongoing basis on an
North Okanagan chambers meet with tourism minister
NORTH OKANAGAN – An infusion of federal funding and a renewed national focus on tourism is welcome news to the Armstrong Spallumcheen and Greater Vernon chambers of commerce. On May 23, Tourism Minister Melanie Joly participated in a sold-out roundtable discussion hosted by the chambers at Fairways Bistro in Armstrong. “We thank Minister Joly for taking the time to stop in our region and it was exciting to learn more about the recently announced federal tourism strategy,” said Peter Rotzetter, Armstrong
Chamber doesn't want overdose prevention site downtown
VERNON – Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce directors and staff met with Interior Health representatives May 17 to discuss plans to establish an overdose prevention site (OPS) in Vernon. Based on what the chamber is hearing from its members and the community, a key message to IH was that an overdose prevention site not be located in the downtown core of Vernon. “We appreciate that IH is mandated by the provincial government to respond to overdose deaths, and the strategy includes an OPS. The
North Okanagan chambers host tourism minister
VERNON – North Okanagan tourism operators, and particularly those in rural areas, will have an opportunity to discuss the future of the industry with federal Tourism Minister Mélanie Joly. On May 23, Joly will take part in a breakfast roundtable hosted by the Armstrong Spallumcheen and Greater Vernon chambers of commerce at Fairways Bistro in Armstrong. Joly will speak about the new federal tourism strategy and how it will create new opportunities and jobs for the middle class in the tourism sector across
Greater Vernon Chamber connects with members
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is pounding the pavement to hear directly from the organization’s grassroots.On May 28, board directors, staff and volunteers will take part in Chamber Check-In, an opportunity to meet one-on-one with its membership base.“We are always looking for ways to connect with our members and learn what issues are important to them, and Chamber Check-In will provide a personal connection,” said Dione Chambers, Greater Vernon Chamber general manager.As part of the
Greater Vernon Chamber calls for ongoing milfoil control
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is concerned that federal and provincial policies regarding milfoil control will negatively impact our community and economy. The chamber recently wrote the federal and provincial governments and urged them to permit the control of invasive Eurasian milfoil as the control mechanism has occurred in Okanagan lakes since the 1970s. “Our chamber appreciates the need to protect aquatic species and specifically the Rocky Mountain Ridged Mussel (RMRM). However, we
Greater Vernon Chamber praises rural internet strategy
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce welcomes a provincial strategy that will provide regional districts legislative mechanisms to link rural areas to high-speed internet.On April 26, the provincial government announced changes that allow regional districts to provide financing for capital costs to internet service providers where it may not otherwise make sense from a business perspective. “The Chamber has long advocated for rural connectivity as the availability of high-speed internet will
Greater Vernon Chamber hosts local leaders
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is bringing together the region’s elected leaders to share their vision for the future. The Local Leaders Lunch, presented by BDO, takes place June 26 and it features Okanagan Indian Band Chief Byron Louis, Vernon Mayor Victor Cumming, Coldstream Mayor Jim Garlick and Kevin Acton, Chair of the Regional District of North Okanagan.“We are extremely excited to have all four Greater Vernon jurisdictions represented and this will be a tremendous opportunity to
Chamber responds to IH pausing overdose prevention process
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce would like to thank Interior Health for pausing the request for proposal process on an overdose prevention site in the community. The chamber had recently requested that IH consult with businesses and commercial property owners regarding where an overdose prevention site is located, and that the chamber and representation from the business community participate in the evaluation of proposals. The chamber also urged IH to include the City of Vernon in the
Greater Vernon Chamber responds to overdose prevention site
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce fully supports the City of Vernon in its call for enhanced community engagement for a proposed overdose prevention site. Interior Health is issuing a request for proposals for a contractor to deliver overdose prevention services in Vernon, including a fixed overdose prevention site. “We appreciate that a public health emergency has been declared in B.C. and that Interior Health and other organizations are taking steps to save lives. However, we share the
Greater Vernon Chamber responds to federal budget
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce supports the federal budget’s focus on bolstering the economy and easing pressure on young families and seniors, but concerns exist about the country’s overall financial condition. Finance Minister Bill Morneau’s budget makes significant investments in the forestry, tourism and oil and gas sectors, while employees will be able to take paid leave for training at 55 per cent of weekly earnings. “These measures will go a long ways towards supporting
Spring Expo generates support for United Way
MARCH 13, 14, 2019 – North Okanagan residents have officially kicked off spring and provided much needed support for vital community services.During the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce’s Spring Expo March 8 and 9, about 1,200 people passed through the doors at Kal Tire Place North and donated $2,140 to United Way.“We are extremely impressed with the generosity of everyone who attended the inaugural Spring Expo, and we are proud to assist United Way and its member agencies,” said Dione Chambers, Greater
Greater Vernon Chamber meets with agriculture minister
VERNON – Federal Agriculture Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau has heard firsthand how crucial agriculture is to the economy of the North Okanagan.Bibeau took part in a roundtable discussion hosted by the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce Tuesday that included food producers, processors and local government representatives.“I’m ready to jump in for the whole country,” said the Quebec MP who was appointed agriculture minister by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau March 1.“Agriculture is a strong industry and
Greg Stevens named Greater Vernon Chamber treasurer
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome a new member to its board of directors. Greg Stevens, a commercial account manager at TD Commercial Bank, has agreed to join the volunteer board in the capacity of treasurer. “Greg has considerable professional experience and a commitment to the community, and I know that he will be a tremendous addition to our board,” said Diana Wilson, chamber president. Stevens is a graduate of the UBC Sauder School of Business, earning a post
Final five recipients for Top 20 Under 40 announced
VERNON – KPMG and The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce are proud to present the final five recipients of the Top 20 under 40.The annual Top 20 Under 40, brought to you by KPMG, Community Futures, City of Vernon-Economic Development and the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce, recognizes the next generation of leaders in the North Okanagan, those under the age of 40 years of age who are making their mark through business success and community involvement. The recipients were selected among more than 60
Greater Vernon Chamber welcomes Folks on Spokes
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce welcomes a City of Vernon program that will target discarded needles. The city’s Folks on Spokes pilot program begins March 1 to provide the community with a hotline to report improperly discarded needles. Also, with the North Okanagan Youth and Family Services Society weekly deep clean, teams of peers will be recruited to provide a daily clean-up of identified hot spots. “We thank the city for moving ahead with Folks on Spokes as the issue of discarded
Greater Vernon Chamber responds to provincial budget
VERNON – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce welcomes the provincial budget’s focus on affordability for average British Columbians, but there’s a concern about the growing financial burden facing business. Small and medium-sized enterprises are facing $5 billion in cumulative cost increases over the next three years.“The layers of tax eat into the bottom line and increasingly make it challenging for businesses in the North Okanagan and across the province to be competitive,” said Dione Chambers,
Third round of Top 20 Under 20 recipients announced
VERNON – KPMG and The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce are proud to present the third group of five recipients of the Top 20 under 40.The annual Top 20 Under 40, brought to you by KPMG, Community Futures, City of Vernon-Economic Development and the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce, recognizes the next generation of leaders in the North Okanagan, those under the age of 40 years of age who are making their mark through business success and community involvement. The recipients were selected among more
Greater Vernon Chamber busy during Small Business Week
VERNON – Chamber Week kicks off Monday, Feb. 18, and there’s a full schedule for the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce.On Tuesday, the Chamber will review the details of the provincial budget, which is being tabled that afternoon in the Legislature in Victoria.“We will be looking to see if the government’s second budget allows businesses to not only survive but thrive in B.C. as a healthy and vibrant economy is good for everyone,” said Dione Chambers, Chamber general manager.Also on Tuesday, the Chamber’s
Second Round of Top 20 Under 40 Recipients Named
VERNON – KPMG and The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce are proud to present the second group of five recipients of the Top 20 under 40.The annual Top 20 Under 40, brought to you by the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce, KPMG, Community Futures and City of Vernon-Economic Development, recognizes the next generation of leaders in the North Okanagan, those under the age of 40 years of age who are making their mark through business success and community involvement. The recipients were selected among more
First five recipients in Top 20 Under 40 announced
VERNON – KPMG and The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce are proud to present the first five recipients of the Top 20 under 40.The annual Top 20 Under 40, brought to you by KPMG, Community Futures and City of Vernon-Economic Development, recognizes the next generation of leaders in the North Okanagan, those under the age of 40 years of age who are making their mark through business success and community involvement. The first recipients were selected among more than 60 nominations, and include: Genny
Spring Expo showcases North Okanagan businesses
JANUARY, 14, 2019 – Thousands of people are anticipated to flock to Spring Expo and that ensures heightened awareness for North Okanagan products and services. The inaugural business and community showcase is March 8 and 9 at Kal Tire Place North and the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is currently accepting registrations for vendors. “The region’s business community is vast and diverse, but one of the challenges for any business is making sure potential customers not only know of them, but
Chamber calls for action on downtown safety
NOVEMBER 23, 2018 – The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is calling for increased dialogue to address street-level concerns in the downtown core. On Nov. 20, chamber representatives attended a meeting organized by business owners contending with drug use, litter, loitering, vandalism, property crime, aggressive behaviour and concerns about customer safety. Also at the meeting were Interior Health, BC Housing and the Turning Points Collaborative Society, which operates homeless shelters and low-income
Small business focus of minister's visit
NOVEMBER 17, 2018 – The federal government has been provided with the North Okanagan perspective on small business.On Nov. 17, the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce hosted Mary Ng, minister of small business and export promotion, at Okanagan College.“I am here to listen,” said Ng, who is Member of Parliament for Markham-Thornhill, Ont.Among the issues raised by members of the chamber and residents were succession planning for small business operators, provincial trade barriers, the need for more women
Greater Vernon Chamber hosts small business minister
NOVEMBER 6, 2018 - Small business opportunities and challenges will be on the agenda as the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce hosts a federal cabinet minster.Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business and Export Promotion, will speak at a breakfast event at 9 a.m. Saturday Nov. 17 at Kal View room Okanagan College.“We are thrilled that the Honourable Minister will take time out of her busy schedule to meet with local business leaders,” said Diana Wilson, Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce president.“We will be
Vote Yes For Culture
OCT. 17, 2018 - The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce is uniting behind the vision for enhanced cultural opportunities. On Saturday, Oct. 20, voters of Vernon, Coldstream and Electoral Areas B and C will be asked to borrow up to $25 million for a cultural centre, including community space, a museum and public art gallery, with another $15 million to come from senior government grants and fundraising. “We often think of roads, water and sidewalks when it comes to infrastructure, but cultural and
Chamber celebrates Small Business Week
OCT. 17, 2018 – Small businesses are at the heart of a strong and vibrant economy in the North Okanagan. Small Business Week is being celebrated across British Columbia from Oct. 14 to 20. “Businesses of all sizes are important to a healthy economy but there is a realization that much of the catalyst comes from the grassroots, from small businesses,” said Dione Chambers, Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce general manager. “Not only do these small business owners demonstrate the entrepreneurial spirit, but
Steel and Aluminum Tariffs
May 10, 20185 Minutes for Business, Canadian Chamber of CommerceSteel and Aluminum Tariffs Unless you’ve been living under a rock (or perhaps within a rolled steel coil), you have no doubt seen all the news these days about the looming threat of steel and aluminum tariffs being imposed by the United States. Last year, the U.S. Department of Commerce initiated an investigation into whether steel and aluminum imports were impairing America’s national security. These investigations occurred under Section 232
