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MANAGER'S DESK: The sun rises on a new era at Alberni chamber of commerce

New manager Bill Collette provides his insights into Port Alberni, his newly adopted community.

A School teacher many years ago was quite adamant in his preaching’s that the SUN RISES in the EAST. He even brought out a compass to demonstrate his point. That lesson has always struck me as odd because, well, I don’t live in the East. That’s Vancouver. More on that later….

I just returned from the Alberni Valley Multiplex to secure our seats at Saturday’s Game 2 vs. the Victoria Grizzlies. It will be a most enjoyable series as our Bulldogs have clearly proven that they have what it takes. Add to that the excitement of seeing home grown Port Alberni boys on the wrong bench doing their best Sedin-ery (one is on the shelf) makes for a great way to spend your Saturday night in our great city.

Listening to the retiring Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training on Wednesday night as the Chamber of Commerce’ guest speaker was yet another dose of positive news for us here in the Valley. Minister Pat Bell provided detailed summaries of his trade excursions to the new economies, China/India, and with that he was able to demonstrate quite clearly that opportunities do exist for Port Alberni and indeed all of British Columbia. He cautions however that we must roll up our sleeves and present our best foot forward as many other jurisdictions are after the same markets. We must be the best and from what I can see so far; we do have the leadership to make it happen!

On April 18th the Chamber will welcome many of our community’s best ranging from business operations, customer service, volunteer dedication and much more. We’re excited to welcome these people to a great event and even more excited to help share their success with everyone in the Port Alberni area. In reviewing the many nominations we realize that we at the Chamber of Commerce must step it up ourselves so that our accolades reach well beyond the once per year and instead we’re looking forward to inviting community winners and partners to future Chamber events. So please, if you’re aware of someone’s award or recognition; please share their story with us.

Being new in the valley I also learned on Wednesday night just how wonderful our arts community really is. Frankly, I had no idea but it was great to listen to two of our leaders in that area discuss some of the many successes in the past and, fortunately, in the present. So, thanks for the information Peter and Cindy.

So, this brings me back to that school teacher. You know the guy who told me that the sun rises in the East. He’s wrong. I now live in Port Alberni, B.C. The west coast of Vancouver Island; and near as I can tell, the sun rises in the West.

Thought for the week:

Go Bulldogs!— Port Alberni residents and hockey fans