Sopranos needed
 
As I work my way around this ultra-green and stunningly beautiful place I am often honored with the pleasure of getting to know our business leaders as they welcome me into their offices. Many have been here for decades, others for mere weeks, yet each person I see has a vision, has unparalleled passion for the area, and each, without exception, values the contributions of their employees. Through my conversations I am often asked “What does the Chamber of Commerce do?” Good question; because as a former business owner, in two separate ventures, I asked the same question. So, here is a highlight or two of recent activities. First, it’s best to break down the ‘name’ itself. We are: “an association of businesspeople to promote commercial and industrial interests in the community.” That is really what we are. We are a team. We are your Bulldogs. Our motto is such that we are your voice, so perhaps we’re better noted as a choir. When you have an opinion that mirrors those of the network in the area then we are the people to take the lead, to sing loudly on your behalf.
 
It is we, along with the political appointees, who absolutely must sing for you. It is we who write the letters on your collective part designed to push for what the community wants, what it needs. Do we need a second route option TO Port Alberni as one person recently said; key word TO? The answer as almost everyone has stated; is this. Absolutely. We need the economic benefit that a second option would provide for all us be it a tourism related business, an auto repair shop, a grocer or; you. We need for people to realize that Port Alberni is accessible, is open for business. And through that we’ll see our youth reconsider their place of residence placing Port Alberni back on their wish list. Your Chamber of Commerce has also provided a letter of support for Airport Improvements, which are required for the betterment of the community at large. Do you travel? Do you need to meet business colleagues in Vancouver, or New Orleans? Do you realize that we are one of, if not the largest community in the Province without scheduled airline services? Your Chamber of Commerce supports this venture for you, for Port Alberni, for your employees, for your children.
 
What about the BC Ferries? Through the BC Chamber of Commerce, of which we are part, we have and we are pushing hard for major considerations for the economic well being of the entire Island. We are your voice with BC Ferries, with the Government of BC. And, we will be relentless in this matter.
 
These are just a couple of tracks from our repertoire. We are open for business, open to hear your concerns, open to work with you, and for you, for the betterment of commercial activities. When you need to reach us; you can. We are open 7 days per week, year round.
 
Remember too that we are a member-funded organization. If you believe in better transportation, in full airport access, community signage, BC Ferry policy, and the list goes on, then join our choir. Just like our Bulldogs who need all four lines, we need a full choir in order to sing loud, in order to be heard down every hallway. Will our ‘dogs’ win with a partial team? Will our choir without tenors, or without sopranos be heard? Course not, but imagine if every business in Port Alberni were to jump on board, and then we, you, all of us write a letter in support of whatever; let’s say the GPS for the airport. Can they say no? Can they ignore us? Ignore all of us? I don’t think so. We need a full choir. We look forward to hearing your voice on our bench. White shirts, black pants and the ‘choir’ colors are optional; best be yourself. Reach us anytime and expect a response. [email protected]