Chamber line up for 2017

Posted on: Staff Writer

From edition: December 2016 Strathmore Times

Sharon McLeay
Times Contributor

 

Strathmore and District Chamber of Commerce President Terri Kinsmen is spreading the news that 2017 will see the Chamber continue their forward momentum for businesses in the Strathmore area.
The Chamber has made great strides in the past year to maintain a balanced budget, yet provide value packed events and information for business owners in the region.
“Cash flow is tight as usual, but we try to make sure all our events and seminars support themselves,” said Kinsmen.
Some of next year’s Ask the Expert seminar talks are already planned. Early January will feature Gregory, Harriman and Associates, which will give some insight on changes to federal business tax for area business owners.
“They will have managers on hand before and after the seminar, to answer questions as well,” said Kinsmen.
In February, an informative talk on customer service and teamwork is planned, and March will feature a workforce consultant from the provincial Ministry of Labour. They will be talking about student employment and Canada job grants.
The Chamber traditionally has their annual general meeting (AGM) in March or April. They will continue the theme of “Not your Grandfathers’ AGM.” This year a craft beer tasting and appetizers will accompany taking care of the annual business by members of the Chamber.
October will host an awards night for outstanding businesses in the area.
“We also discussed succession planning for board members, as we may have some members leaving the board in 2017,” said Kinsmen.
She announced new board members included Strathmore town councillors Denise Peterson and Bob Sobol, and Alisha Gosling of the Newsy Neighbour and possibly some other representatives from local businesses.
Looking ahead, Kinsmen said the Chamber is pursuing grants that may bring a leadership conference to Strathmore for 2018.
Those wishing to join the Strathmore and District Chamber of Commerce can contact them at 403-901-3175, e-mail info@strathmoredistrictchamber.com, or drop into the office at 129 Second Avenue in Strathmore.