Newsletter 02.2011 web

Page 1

Volume 7 • Number 1

MISSION CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce

February 2011

New Chamber Website

www.MissionChamber.bc.ca

On February 4th the Chamber launched its re-vamped website and Chamber leaders couldn’t be more pleased. “We are really excited to finally have an updated site,” stated past President, Sean Melia. “It was first identified in 2009 as a goal of the organization and we are glad to see it offer so much more than we could have anticipated.” With over 1,500 unique weekly visits to the Chamber website, the strategy is to provide members with added value while still offering community and visitor information. Chamber members now have an enhanced business directory, the most visited area of the Chamber website. Each member is given a webpage to describe their business, plot their location on Google Maps (which automatically is updated with NEVED, North America’s GPS mapping system), link to social media sites and to their own website, and post hot deals and jobs. Guidance is given for SEO optimization so that members can improve their search engine standings. Members are also offered an enhanced marketing package that allows for YouTube postings, photos, banner ads and more. All members can now login and change information as often as they like, as well as view reports to their individual page. “I was amazed by the number of hits we had through our page and our hot deals in the first few weeks of the new site,” remarks Vanni De Bartolo of the Abbotsford Heat. “It has definitely changed how we look at our listing with the Chamber.” Visitors to the member pages are able to contact the member directly through direct email links, forward the information to a friend or request more information. Additionally, members of the community will now have a one stop local site that lists

local sales and deals, employment opportunities, as well as a comprehensive calendar of community events. Chamber members and local organizations are able to post events free of charge and create links to more information. The events pages also interface with Outlook so they can be uploaded directly to calendars, as well as set email reminders. As the Chamber website is also the portal for tourism in Mission, there are direct links to restaurants and lodgings on the home page, in addition to visitor pages with information about attractions and tourist info. There are also community links, relocation information and video highlighting what Mission has to offer. Key to the new site is the ability for members to connect with the Chamber. Not only does the new site have information about the Board of Directors, it also lists committee information and contacts, postings of Chamber policies and positions, and volunteer opportunities. Importantly, through the new site members now have access to member forums. This area of the site give members the opportunity to network on line, let committees know what is affecting their businesses, and let the Chamber know what is important to them. “I am excited about contributing to the forums and engaging with members,” notes Chamber President Helen Secco. “It is a valuable to tool for members to use when it’s convenient for them.” Members are encouraged to check out the forum and make suggestions to the process. Visit the site and let the Chamber know what you think. Just click on Contact at the top of the webpage.

• New look • new features • Added member value


Page 2 • February 2010

Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce 34033 Lougheed Hwy Mission, BC V2V 5X8 Phone: 604-826-6914 Fax: 604-826-5916 www.missionchamber.bc.ca

2011 Board of Directors President - Helen Secco Past President - Sean Melia

2nd Vice-President - Jo-anne Chadwick Secretary/Treasurer - Tony LaPointe Directors 2010 Todd Bugge Cal Crawford Phil Hope Ted Adlem Kelly Vaille Elyssa Lockhart Chuck Vander Byl Jason Roessel District of Mission Mayor James Atebe Community Futures Oleene Herman Mission Downtown Business Association Dr. Lynden Balisky Staff Michelle Favero - Manager Angel Elias - Member Services Allison Jack - Tourism Coordinator

mission chamber connection

What can the Chamber do for you? A lot! by helen secco “I refuse to join any club that would have me as a member.” ~ Groucho Marx Thank goodness that our Mission Chamber members don’t have that same philosophy! This month’s newsletter theme is membership, and throughout the publication there are articles, hints and tips about being a member of this organization. As many of you know I’ve been involved with the Chamber movement in some capacity for over 28 years, and once my term as President is completed I will still be involved. Why? As the saying goes, membership has its privileges! Yes, you’ve all heard of the direct benefits – fuel savings, group insurance, dis-

Thank you to everyone who helped make my term great On March 9th, the Annual General Meeting for the Mission Chamber takes place. This is where the new Executive and Board is elected, and in so doing this is my last article as the President of the Chamber.

Member Referrals

O

count programs, networking etc. but over the years what I’ve figured out is I get back exactly what I put in. When I show up at networking events I meet other business people, and to be honest the intent is to increase my business. The unexpected benefit is sometimes those business people end up being good friends. If I don’t take advantage of the discount programs or the group insurance plan it would cost more to do business than

it really has to. The savings accumulated are then passed right back into the Chamber through sponsorship and advertising opportunities. I can easily point to many of my customers and say that I met them as a result of being a member of the Chamber, but I also realize that that is not always the case. It really depends on what type of business you are in. If networking isn’t something that works for you, but you are still looking for exposure for your business, or to give back to the community, there are many ways to do that – join a committee, task force, take advantage of the business spotlight, or become a sponsor! If you are unsure what we can do for you, call Angel at the office she will be glad to slip you into something that feels right.

ver the past while we have had a number of new members become part of the Chamber network through referrals from existing Chamber members. To those businesses who have participated in strengthening the Chamber through referrals, we offer our sincere thanks. Your assistance is invaluable! New members provide new resources which allow for the development and continuing support of Chamber activities. If you know a business that is interested in becoming a member of the Chamber of Commerce, we would appreciate knowing who they are. Please use this form to fax or mail your referral to the Chamber office. We will highlight the individuals and businesses responsible for referrals which result in new memberships for the Chamber. Broaden your business network by helping your Chamber grow!

I wish to thank the Board and staff for their support over the last 15 months, it has been rewarding and educational, and at times, exhilarating and exhausting, but most definitely fun!

My Name is:______________________________________________ Business:_________________________________________________ Phone:_______________________ Fax:________________________ I am Referring:____________________________________________ Name:___________________________________________________ Business:_________________________________________________ Phone:_______________________ Fax:________________________ Please return this form to: Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce 34033 Lougheed Hwy, Mission BC V2V 5X8 or fax to 604-826-5916 or email: member_services@missionchamber.bc.ca


mission chamber connection

February 2010 • Page 3

Membership News It Isn’t All About the Food By Kelly Vaille, Membership Chair Although members have had the Chamber. attending meetings or just by stopping opportunity to attend many great netSome of these programs include: a by the Chamber office or other busiworking events, including Business after new member breakfast, a Member to nesses in the community. Business and Chamber luncheons with Member discount/loyalty program, and One conversation with another memfabulous food; the value of membership Chamber-hosted seminars for the future. ber can sometimes expand a business in the Mission Chamber goes beyond the This month members have had the beyond what its owner ever thought appetizers. opportunity to network with each other at possible. February was Member Month for Rockwell’s, and also to attend the upcomMembers are encouraged to get the Mission Regional Chamber of ing Business after Hours at Hemlock Ski involved, and share ideas with one Commerce, and the Membership Resort. Just because you don’t have to another. Committee was working hard behind the wear business attire doesn’t mean you Be proud to be a part of this growscenes expanding on programs to bring can’t do business. ing organization, display your Chamber members together, increase awareness The value of membership can also be decal in your window, shake the hand of of the member businesses in Mission expanded by members getting involved a customer and say, “Hi, I’m a member and add further value to belonging to the in committees, volunteering at events, of the Chamber of Commerce are you?”

Tell Us What Is Important To You Chamber members now have access through their member login to Member Forums. The Chamber has set up this area to create the opportunity for 24/7 dialogue between members, and between members and the Board.

Active forums include:

• Executive & Staff Information • New Members – A place to Connect • Local News & Events • Legislative Issues – Government items that effect your ability to do business • Grow Your Business – Marketing Ideas Sharing • Economic Development – Hosted by EDO Stacey Crawford • Educational Opportunities • Committee Updates • The Water Cooler – What’s on your mind?

Members can access this portal in the website through their member login. Look on the left hand menu for Member Participation and click. Once logged in, update your profile, and include your avatar and your reply email so that others can talk to you directly if they wish. Forums are only accessible for Chamber members and items posted will be monitored and moderated for safety. Discussions have already started regarding minimum wage, regional business licensing and more. Get involved in the discussion. Have your voice heard! Contact Michelle Favero manager@missionchamber.bc.ca for more information.

Did you know? Randy Hawes, MLA (Abbotsford-Mission)

T: 604.820.6203 • F: 604.820.6211 randy.hawes.mla@leg.bc.ca www.randyhawesmla.bc.ca

Your MLA’s office can help you with: • Provincial government related issues • Certification of copies of important documents • Arranging congratulatory messages • Providing information on government programs Shared Constituency Office 33058 First Ave. Mission V2V 1G3

Marc Dalton, MLA (Maple Ridge-Mission)

T: 604.820.6203 • F: 604.820.6211 marc.dalton.mla@leg.bc.ca www.marcdaltonmla.bc.ca


Page 4 • February 2010

mission chamber connection

Chamber of Commerce Committee News Look for the Chamber meeting schedule on the Mission Chamber public Google Calendar. Contact Chamber staff if you are interested in participating. Events Committee, Todd Bugge, Chair The Events Committee is working on planning the Annual Golf Tournament slated for June 9 at Cedar Ridge Golf Course, and the upcoming Member Appreciation Day on July 28. The Committee is proud of the new events calendar on the new and improved Chamber website. We encourage you to use it to sign up for events and give us your feed back. If you are interested in joining the Committee it meets at 8am every second Tuesday of the month. Please contact Angel Elias, member_services@missionchamber.bc.ca . Tourism Committee, Jo-Anne Chadwick, Chair Just under a year ago the world was watching BC as the Winter Olympics Celebrations were in full swing. The Fraser Valley and Mission may not have experienced an immediate increase in visitation but all signs point to an exciting 2011. Before leaving our beautiful province last year many “Olympic Visitors” were already planning their return trips, and their plans included exploring more of British Columbia. There really was no better marketing tool of a beautiful sunny province with friendly welcoming people. The Mission Tourism Committee has been working hard to promote the area with joint initiatives such as “Scenic 7” and the “Yellow Banner Tour.” The Yellow Banner tour highlights Arts and Cultural attractions, including artists studios and galleries along the Scenic 7 Highway. To find out more about these projects make sure to drop in and visit the Visitor Centre or contact Allison at 604-826-6914 or tourism_services@ missionchamber.bc.ca . The tourism committee meets monthly, new members always welcome.

Todd Bugge

Jo-Anne Chadwick

Tourism Stakeholders, mark your calendars, April is Tourism Month and the Committee will be presenting a free Tourism event on April 14th. Kevan Ridgeway , CEO of Vancouver Coast and Mountains will be speaking on the future of Tourism in BC and what is happening with this ever-growing sector. Government Affairs, Elyssa Lockhart, Chair The Government Affairs Committee is continuing to act on members’ concerns, and is looking forward to your responses in the member forum area of the new Chamber website. Continue to log-in and answer our surveys and post your issues so we may better serve as your voice. Upcoming areas of advocacy include flood control of the Fraser and a Regional Business Licensing system. If you are interested in advocacy, or have a business concern, please contact the Government Affairs Committee through Michelle Favero, manager@missionchamber.bc.ca . Membership Committee, Kelly Vaille, Chair The Committee is excited about the new opportunities that are now available on the new website. Make sure you log in and update your profile, including your location map and business description. Note the AGM is on March 9th and our Keynote Speaker is Scott Ackles, GM of the 2011 Grey Cup. If you are interested in participating in the Membership Committee contact Angel Elias, member_services@missionchamber. bc.ca. The Committee meets at 8am on the third Wednesday of every month in the Chamber Boardroom.

Elyssa Lockhart

Kelly Vaille

Go to www.missionchamber.bc.ca to get all your news and information on business in Mission

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mission chamber connection

February 2010 • Page 5

Chamber News

Chambers of Commerce – Community Leaders in Action February 21st marks the beginning of Chamber of Commerce Week, an opportunity for Chambers of Commerce across the province to demonstrate the outstanding value they provide to their communities. This value comes in the form of benefits and services to stimulate local economies, direct community promotion and support, and engaging in an important multi-level advocacy role which benefits the entire province. Advocacy efforts of Chambers of Commerce in BC represent some of their most important work. Chambers raise issues that concern both their members and the community at large with Local, Provincial and Federal governments. The network of over 120 Chambers of Commerce across BC is a unique business organization, and gives issues

a voice beyond the local level. This provides much needed input to public policy, which benefits local economic and social well-being. Direct support for businesses and the community constitutes another central area of Chamber focus. Chambers of Commerce provide benefit, service and educational programs to their membership, supporting businesses and helping them achieve success. Chambers of Commerce also work diligently to promote and assist their communities. This support for both local businesses and the areas in which they operate directly stimulates local economies and creates vibrant communities around the province. Chambers of Commerce are community leaders in action.

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Chamber of Commerce Week recognizes and applauds this important contribution, and brings further awareness about the Chamber Network’s influence and importance to members of the public and Chamber members alike.

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Page 6 • February 2010

mission chamber connection

Chamber News

Annual General Meeting March 9th Keynote Speaker: Scott Ackles, GM 2011 Grey Cup AGM Agenda Provide your input on the direction of your organization by electing those who speak for you. • 2010 review by outgoing President Helen Secco • Treasurer’s Report • Bylaw Amendments to update the governance of the Chamber • Election of six new Board Members and Executive Nominee bios and Bylaw Amendments can be found on the event page at www.missionchamber. bc.ca

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

The Mission Chamber is proud to announce Scott Ackles, General Manager of the 2011 Grey Cup, as the speaker at the Annual General Meeting March 9th. The Chamber invites the community to come hear him speak about the opportunities major events bring to communities. He brings many years of experience in the sports and entertainment industry to the 2011 Grey Cup Committee, most recently serving as president of the Calgary Stampeders and general manager of the very successful 2009 Grey Cup Festival and Championship in Calgary. Over three seasons in Calgary, Ackles oversaw the Stamps’ business operations and played a key part in the formation of the Horsemen, a group of local business leaders committed to building the Stampeders brand in the corporate community.

“Promoting Business and Tourism Development in Mission” INFORMATION AVAILABLE • Mission Community Profile • Commercial and Industrial Property Inventory • Business Opportunities • Tourism• & Film Production Resource Library Liaison 34033 LOUGHEED HWY., MISSION, BC V2V 5X8 Tel. 604.820.3789 • Fax. 604.820.6738 • Toll Free 1.866.814.1222 Email: edc@mission.ca • www.mission.ca

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mission chamber connection

Chamber News

February 2010 • Page 7

bylaw changes

As per the requirements in the Mission Chamber’s by-laws that require Member notification of changes; below are the changes to the organizations by-laws that will be voted on at the March 9th Annual General Meeting.

Any questions regarding the proposed changes can be directed to Michelle Favero manager@missionchamber.bc.ca or 604.826.6914.

Overall changes include: • The word “Council” has been replace by “Board” or “Board of Directors” • The position of “2nd Vice-President” has been removed from the Board as it no longer meets succession expectations. • The “Secretary/Treasurer” position has been renamed “Treasurer” to accurately reflect its function.

the President and a Member appointed by the Past Presidents Advisory Committee. The Nomination Committee will be struck three months after the beginning of the Legislative Year. ii) Board Members standing for an additional term may not serve on the Nomination Committee. iii) In the event the past President is not available for the Nominating Committee the President or delegate will form part of the three Member committee. iii) The Nomination Committee shall submit its nomination report to the Board at the Board meeting that is two Board meetings prior to the Annual General Meeting. Any other nomination proposed by a Member in good standing as per Section 12 and supported by two additional Members in good standing as per Section 12 may be made, in writing to the Chamber offices no later than fourteen (14) days in advance of the Annual General Meeting; iv) Any Member in good standing as per Section 12 can be nominated as a Director of the Board through the Nomination Committee, outlined in Section 37 (iii) or from the floor of the Annual General Meeting. In the event a nomination is made from the floor, it must be made by a Member in good standing as per Section 12 and supported by two additional Members who are also in good standing as per Section 12. v) Nominations for the offices of President, First VicePresident, Second Vice-President, and Secretary/Treasurer or any of these positions individually shall be made by a Member of Board in good standing as defined by Section 12. moved to section 16B vi) v) There will be nominations from the floor of the Annual General Meeting for the offices of President, First VicePresident, Second Vice-President, and Secretary-Treasurer or any of these positions individually. vii) Candidate(s) for the position of President must have a minimum of two (2) years serving on the Board of Directors; candidates for First Vice-Presidents and Second Vice-President positions must have a minimum of one (1) year serving; moved to section 16B viii) v) In the event an election is necessary for any position, voting shall be by ballot. The ballots will list all positions to be filled and Members nominated for each office to be filled. vii) The Chamber Manager, President and one other Member of the Nomination Committee will count the ballots after voting closes. viii) At the conclusion of the Annual General Meeting, a motion will be made by a Member in good standing, as defined in Section 12, for the destruction of the ballots.

New Definition of a Member in good standing: SECTION 11 A Member in good standing is defined as having been a Member for more than one (1) year and whose dues are paid in full and outstanding receivables with the Chamber are paid within terms. Revision of the Executive and terms of the Board of Directors: SECTION 16B i) The Executive of the Chamber is comprised of the President, First Vice-President, Second Vice-President, a Secretary/ Treasurer and Immediate Past President. ii) The Executive shall be elected by the Membership for one (1) term but not longer than two (2) terms. iii) The Directors shall be elected for a two (2) year term; however, the Directors shall be divided equally so that one-half of the Directors shall be elected every second year; iv) Not withstanding Section 16B iii) Directors whose electoral period is expiring but are elected by the Membership/ Board to the position of President, First Vice-President and 2nd Vice-President shall be exempt from the terms of the Board. v) Elections of the Executive shall be held at the same Annual General Meeting as the Election of Directors; and vi) Elections for the offices of President, First Vice-President, Second Vice-President, and Secretary/Treasurer or any of these positions individually shall be made by a Member of the Board in good standing as defined by Section 12. vii) Term of Office shall commence on the first of April following the elections. viii) Candidate(s) for the position of President must have a minimum of two (2) years serving on the Board; candidates for First Vice-Presidents and Second Vice-President positions must have a minimum of one (1) year serving; Revision of the Nomination Process: SECTION 37 i) A Nomination Committee will be appointed in each election year and shall consist of the President, a Director appointed by


Page 8 • February 2010

mission chamber connection

Government News Minimum Wage Needs to Increase Having put the minimum wage on the table during leadership debates, the Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce calls on all provincial leadership candidates to present a plan to increase the minimum wage. Plans should include a gradual increase over the next two years with increases beyond 2013 being tied to CPI. “Business owners need to be able to plan for increases to the minimum wage,” states Helen Secco, Chamber president. “The lack of increase over the last nine years has left wages stagnant compared to inflation. Now with discussions to increase the wage, businesses will need to rethink staffing commitments. Uncertainty on how this will be accomplished is leaving many businesses unsure of their employee’s futures and their ability to hire.”

The Mission Chamber surveyed its membership and 78% of respondents wanted an increase to the minimum wage. Interestingly 46% wanted gradual increases and 27% wanted to see an immediate increase. For over half of respondents, labour costs ranged from 30 to 40%. Respondents represented a cross section of industry sectors, and only 8% paid staff minimum wages. “Our members prefer to see certainty from government over the direction of [minimum] wage. They do not want it to be a political flag waved during election seasons,” remarks Secco. “Tying the wage to CPI will allow business to plan for sustainable growth, creating a better labour environment.” The Mission Chamber also would prefer the cessation of the training wage.

With only 2.3% of workers in BC receiving minimum wage, and most moving from it within the first year of employment, it can be understood that the minimum wage is being used by employers as the training wage already. The average hourly working wage in BC is $23.12, workers between 15-24 avarage an hourly wage of $13.62. The most significant factors affecting minimum wage earners include cost of living and housing. The Chamber recognizes that any increase to minimum wage will affect the final cost of goods to consumers.

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mission chamber connection

February 2010 • Page 9

Auditor General Sheila Fraser Keynote Speaker at Fraser Valley Event The Fraser Valley CA Association’s keynote speaker on February 17th was the Auditor General Sheila Fraser. Nearing the end of her appointment, she has been a driving force for transparency of the federal bureaucracy. She reflected on the controversy and successes of her term and was clear on the mandate of her office; to provide parliament the necessary information on the stewardship of public funds through federal programs, enabling the elected to make policy decisions. Fraser explained that there are routine audits of all government program and crown corporations, as well as requests from Parliament;

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which was the case in the sponsorship scandal. She noted that highlights of her career have included the “plain language” reporting she instituted in the second year of her term.

“It is important that any Canadian be able to pick up and understand our reports,” she stated. While her name has been associated with revealing many boondoggles, Fraser’s time on many international councils has shown her how well the bulk of government programs are run. Fraser relayed that the high standard we hold government to is not common worldwide, even in Europe. She credited the federal banking policy and regulations as the primary reason for Canada’s economic stability during this global downturn. Reviewing the makeup of her federal department of 635

employees, she clarified that it is not all accountants; many have Master degrees and are policy specialists. She sees the biggest challenge for the department in the future being the common struggle of recruitment and retention of qualified staff. Believing that critical but constructive reviews of government institutions builds stronger institutions, the confidence Canadians have in their government, and a stronger democracy, Sheila Fraser has left her mark on the federal landscape. Her frank and engaging address made it is easy to understand why she was rated one of Canada’s most trusted Canadians.

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Page 10 • February 2010

mission chamber connection

Successful Web Tools and Tips from ChamberMaster

Opportunities are going fast! Members of the Mission Chamber are meeting with Angel Elias to reserve limited space on the chamber’s website. The chamber is partnering with Chamber Master, the world’s leading chamber software provider, to better serve our members and the thousands of people each month looking for businesses in our area.

Connect • Brand package plus • Enhanced business listing your business at the top of business category search page • The ability to post a YouTube video and up to 15 photos on your listing page • Your own Online Brochure of up to 1600 characters on your business listing page • 200 Character description in the Search Results summary of the Business Directory Lead • Connect Package plus • Be the first choice in your target market • Banner in your business category • Banner on the Quick-link sub-category page, plus your choice of the event calendar or the news section of the web page. • Be seen by every consumer who uses the Business Directory search page, and • Several high-visibility pages, including hot deals, job listings, weather and more

The chamber website will let members increase their online visibility through: • A free business listing in the online business directory • Limited featured positions in each category that include banner links to your business listing or your website, free ad design and special member rates. Chamber members have already selected featured positions on a firstcome, first-served basis. These businesses will lock out their competition with first right of renewal every year. The three top available opportunities are: Brand • 200-character description of your products/services you can update anytime you want Hurry! Spaces are limited and catego• Web link on Search Results page ries will likely sell out. • Logo or photo on Search Results Call now to make an appointment page with Angel Elias, Member Services. Call • Social Media links 604.826.6914. • Global position locator

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By Larry Dotson 1. Checklists-Create a list of things to check for a particular process related to your business’s topic. Example: a checklist for creating a web site. 2. Templates-Design a template that will make a certain action easier for your target audience. Ex: a template for writing a resume. 3. Text Workbook-Publish a text format ebook so your audience can learn and practice a certain skill. Ex: a text workbook for writing ad headlines. 4. Transcripts-Create an ebook of text transcripts of a related live event. It can be a seminar, speech, class, interview, etc. 5. Dictionary Of Terms-Publish a web directory or ebook dictionary of terms relating to your specific business industry or subject. 6. Advice Service-Offer a live chat room where you or your employees can give your visitors and customers advice on your business topic. 7. Human Research-Offer a free service where you will search for sites or information your visitors or customers can’t seem to find online. 8. Plans-Create ready-made plans for a particular project your target audience wants to accomplish. It could be marketing plans, landscape plans, etc. Continued on page 11

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mission chamber connection

February 2010 • Page 11

New Member Spotlight Blue Blueberry Company 33616 Cherry Ave Mission BC Denyse Taverner T. 604-820-0293 E. tavmac@telus.net Jim Meurer Trucking 21310 82 Ave Langley BC Jim Meurer T. 604-455-0585 E. liltayko@gmail.com Jenn Daykin 33853 Mayfair Ave Abbotsford BC Jenn T. 604-313-5975 E.thatgirlagain@hotmail.com Mike Franklin Security Risk Management 31690 Grove Ave Mission BC Mike Franklin T. 778-240-1404 E. info@mfandassociates.net Blackberry Kitchen #13 32752 4th Ave Mission BC Kerry Martin T. 604-826-0210 E. kerrydmartin@telus.net

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Vancouver Canadians Professional Baseball Club Nat Bailey Stadium Vancouver BC Grace Kim T. 604-872-5232 E. info@canadiansbaseball.com Park & Tilford Art & Frames 530- 333 Brooksbank Ave North Vancouver BC Scott Hong T. 604-983-3854 E. artframes.parktilford@gmail.com Cascade Falls Bed & Breakfast 14077 Sylvester Road Mission BC Jack & Shirley Van Alphen T. 604-820-0486 E. info@cascadefallsbb.com Condor Engineering Ltd. 32539 Verdon Way Abbotsford BC Brain Ellerman T. 604-290-3618 Interwrap Inc 32923 Mission Way Mission BC T. 604-768-4865 E. tdeol@interwrap.com

The Sweet Spot Café 33057 1st Ave Mission BC Deborah Bleasdale T. 604-556-8891 E. globalkitchencooks@yahoo.ca

Click Media Works. Com 31809 Olson Ave Mission John Laing T.604-826-1654 E. john@clickmediaworks.com

Doug Thorpe Mortgage Specialist #409 33728 King Road Abbotsford Doug Thorpe T. 604-751-0811 E. dthorpe@dominionlending.ca

C.R.K. Designs Inc. 32726 Lightbody Court Mission Carl R. Koehler T. 604 290 8379 E. carl.crkdesigns@telus.net

Rex Blane 2757 Lucern Cres Abbotsford T. 604-850-4744 E. rexblane@msn.com Mission Horse Club 9457 Stave Lake Road Mission Sherryl Hopkins E. memorylane.sh@gmail.com Bent Wrenches Auto Services 7076 Mershon Street Mission BC Bernie Hamm T. 604-287-3332 E. hamcb@telus.net

Kilby Historic Site 215 Kilby Road Harrison Mills Jo Anne Leon T. (604) 796-9576 E. info@kilby.ca

Membership has its benefits! If you are interested in connecting with the Mission Business Community, wanting to add your business voice to lobby government, or needing to find ways of improving what you do, join the Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce. Over 450 members with which to network, advocate and learn. Contact Angel Elias, Membership Coordinator, 604.826.6914

9. Forms-Offer printable, ready-made ies, surveys, and statistics about your related forms your visitors or customers would use industry. regularly. It could be legal forms, organizational forms, etc. Over 40,000 Free eBooks & Web Books E-mail Reports-Publish quarterly e-mail when you visit: http://www.ldpublishing.com reports that contain new research discover.

Chamber members save Fine and Casual Men’s Wear

New Spring Stock Coming in Daily! President: Dirk Weymann Phone: (604) 302-1024

604.826.2721 33147 1st Ave., Mission

10

%

on all purChases

www.rexcoxmenswear.com


MARK YOUR CALENDAR Upcoming Chamber events can be found on our Mission Chamber Events Google Calendar.

February 25 A NIGHT ON THE MOUNTAIN – Hemlock Valley Resort Night skiing, toboggan & tube races and warm drinks by the fireside in the pub. Best part is a ride up the mountain and back. Join us for winter fun and networking on the slopes!

Thursday March 17th Chamber Luncheon: Member Forum Time: 11:30am-1pm Location: Rockwell’s Chapel Room Details: Inauguration of the 2011 Board of Directors by Mayor James Atebe. Open Member forum with new Board of Directors.

Wednesday March 9th Annual General Meeting Time: 7-9pm Location: Rockwell’s Chapel Room Details: Scott Ackles, GM 2011 Grey Cup speaks to the big event and its opportunities. Election of new Board of Directors, Financial Report, Governance Changes.

Thursday March 24th Business After Hours: Mission Yoga & Pilates Time: 5-7pm Location: 33360 11th Avenue Details: Stretch, relax and grow your business at this great networking event!

Thursday March 10th New Member Breakfast Time: 8-9am Location: Kingsway Arms at Cedarbrooke Chateau

Thursday April 14th Mission Tourism Season Launch Time: 5-7pm Location: Powerhouse at Stave Falls Details: Kevan Ridgway speaks to the beginning of the season, the yellow banner tour and much more.

For more information about any of these events, or to RSVP, please visit: www.missionchamber.bc.ca

Dan Roberge

Dan Roberge IGL Financial Corp. Suite 201 – 3240 Mt. Lehman Rd. Abbotsford, BC V4X 2M9 Ph: (604) 855-1990 / Fax: (604) 855-1090 www.bcbenefitplans.com


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