May 11 | 2021
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CHAMBER UPDATES & EVENTS
URGENT NEWS: Province Introduces Sick Leave Benefit Legislation
The BC Government has introduced legislation aimed at providing workers access to paid sick leave. In a release earlier today the province noted that in the short term businesses will be required to pay three days of sick leave to employees impacted by COVID though those businesses will be reimbursed by the province. The legislation also calls for the establishment of a permanent program to be in place by Jan 1, 2022.

The Chamber is digesting the announcement and looks forward to a lot more engagement with the province on the details of what they are proposing to make sure it isn't a massive cost simply put on the backs of small business, many of which are just trying to survive the pandemic.
Canada's Priorities - A Conversation with Hon. Ahmed Hussen
Deeper Dive into Federal Budget 2021
The Kelowna Chamber will welcome Federal Minister Ahmed Hussen next Monday May 17 at 1:00 PM to discuss the recent federal budget and what it means to the Okanagan. The Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development will speak to initiatives aimed at helping families, addressing affordable housing, and he'll also shed light on Canada's long-term fiscal situation. A Q&A session will follow a short presentation. Registration is required. No charge for Chamber members and guests.
Kelowna Chamber Welcomes Community Court
The Chamber was pleased to see Kelowna's Community Court finally open its doors last week and salutes all those that have worked hard to make it a reality.

Kelowna Chamber Executive Director Dan Rogers sat down for a quick conversation with Chamber Chair of the Board Jeffrey Robinson to connect on the recent opening, something the Kelowna Chamber has been advocating for over many years.

This new communications initiative is entitled "KCC Conversations that Count" - Just a few quick minutes on issues impacting Kelowna and the region.
Parke Pacific Projects Golf Tournament Near Sell Out
Only a few spots remain for the Kelowna Chamber day of golf at the Harvest Golf Club. A special thanks to our fantastic sponsors who are ready to welcome all participants on Wednesday July 21.

Aside from the great team and individual prizes, there are also four $10,000 hole in one prizes up for grabs.
Anti Racism Video Supported by Okanagan Chambers
Video Promotes Message of Compassion & Respect, #OKwegotthis
The Kelowna Chamber joined Chambers across the region to support the efforts of South Okanagan Immigrant & Community Services (SOICS) in creating a video that aims to raise awareness of racism and promote more inclusive communities that celebrate diversity.

The video raises awareness around the issue of racism and encourages viewers to speak up when they witness racism. Read the full news release here.
HOLD THE DATE: Board Governance Training Returns
Saturday June 12 @ 9:30am
Better Directors = Wiser Decisions = Greater Success.
Join us Saturday June 12 at 9:30am for a special virtual training session designed specifically for those volunteering on a Board of Directors (or for those considering running for a position on a non-profit Board).

Deb McClelland from ON-BOARD Training will lead this online workshop that will cover the roles and responsibilities of the board and individual Directors while also providing you with an overview of the benefits that flow with good governance.  Limited space so don't delay - register now. Special rate for Kelowna Chamber not-for-profit members.

Maximizing Your Investment - Membership 101 (Members only)
As a member of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce there are many opportunities for you and your business to grow with the Chamber.

Join us Friday April 30 at 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM for a (virtual) special briefing for you and your team to learn how you can get the most out of your investment in membership. 
CERTIFIED CHAMBER MEMBER SPONSORED AD
EVENTS & PROGRAMS IN OUR NETWORK
Join Our Sales Lead Network & Exchange Meaningful Referrals, Grow Your Business
If you're looking for an effective way to grow your referrals with the support of other professionals in your community, then the Kelowna Chamber Sales Lead Network (SLN) is the perfect program for you. SLN is an exclusive benefit for members of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce.

Each week (Thursdays 7:00 AM - 8:30AM) you will have the opportunity to meet with non-competing Chamber members to exchange meaningful referrals and business insights.
BDO's TOP 40 OVER 40
BDO's Top 40 Over 40 program celebrates remarkable individuals in our community over the age of 40 as a means to showcase mentors, champions and role models who encourage and foster the future leaders of our community.

To learn more and nominate a deserving mentor or coach CLICK HERE.
BRIAN WALL | AEM Corp.

Brian describes himself as determined (and a wee bit stubborn), going after what he wants with decision and vigour. His career began as a commercial pilot—a dream since being a young boy—but he returned to school wanting to be successful in business. Brian has since served thirty-five+ years in senior leadership roles for a variety of organizations, most recently as AEM's VP of Operations and now CEO.
DAVE REDEKOP | RWT Growth

Dave arrived in the Okanagan in 1998, and in his first job, the company managed the largest transaction in software in the Valley in history to that point, $150 million, in a sale of Workfire Technologies to Packeteer Canada. That transaction launched the software industry in Kelowna and many of those who were a part of it are still a part of the community today, and have gone on to their own endeavours.
ADDITIONAL COVID-19 UPDATE & RESOURCES
$500-Million Investment Fund Paves Way for a StrongerBC
A first-of-its-kind $500-million strategic investment fund will provide BC-based businesses with capital to position the province as a front-runner in the post-pandemic economy. The BC government has introduced legislation to support the operations of InBC Investment Corp. (InBC), a new $500-million strategic investment fund. Developed in consultation with the business and investment sectors.
Accelerating Manufacturing, Scale-Up Grant Program
The goal of the Scale-Up Grant program is to support small and medium-sized businesses in British Columbia to accelerate innovative capacity in the manufacturing sector, strengthen critical provincial supply chains, and create new, sustainable economic opportunities for businesses. Applications will be accepted until May 31, 2021.
MEET YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
TREENA CARSON-PIVA | Real Property Management Executives
What is your position/title and company and what do you do there?
My husband and I are the owners of Real Property Management Executives. We are the largest residential property management company in North America, and our local office proudly offers premiere property/asset management services to Kelowna and the entire Okanagan Valley. Our client base ranges from individuals who own one rental property to investors and developers with complex, multi-unit portfolios. As the Manager of Operations, my duties include business and policy development, human resources, strategic planning, marketing, and client relations.

How long have you been in the Okanagan? If you aren't originally from the valley, what led you to call the Okanagan home?
Three years ago we relocated our family from the Lower Mainland to Kelowna with the sole purpose of launching Real Property Management Executives. We did our research and strategically chose Kelowna. We were convinced Kelowna had the perfect balance of big city savvy and small town connection, making it an ideal environment for us to personally and professionally thrive. It was honestly one of the best decisions we've ever made!

What do you enjoy most about your role with the Kelowna Chamber?
I'm a rookie, brand new to the Chamber Board, so my experiences are limited. That being said, I feel privileged to work alongside such a dynamic group of individuals and to represent the Kelowna business community. As a small business owner I am keenly aware of the challenges, frustrations, achievements and celebrations that come with running a business - particularly in the demographic of Kelowna. I am very excited to be part of, and to contribute to, the evolution of our thriving businesses community! 

What are you looking forward to/planning for the future?
More than anything, I am looking forward to breaking through to the other side of the pandemic and resuming normalcy in our personal and professional lives. Like so many, I crave the connection of family, friends, and community. I can't wait till we can gather and celebrate and support one another, free of restrictions or fear.
UPCOMING EVENTS AT A GLANCE
UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS AT GLANCE
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KELOWNA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE | kelownachamber.org