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South Okanagan Photos

ODN goes one-on-one with new South Okanagan Chamber President Jamie Cox

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Chamber President Jamie Cox of Gallagher Lake Resort speaking during the Business Networking Night.

This has been a tough period in the history of the South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce.

Two weeks ago, Chamber Board Members, having lost faith in the current situation, attended a closed door meeting with one main focus – a vote of non-confidence in the President, Corrie Adolph. She was roughly halfway through her term at the time she was informed her services were no longer wanted by the Chamber.

Adolph is currently in Mexico operating her business, Global Village Bed & Breakfast.
At the urging of other Directors, Jamie Cox was named as Adolph’s replacement.

Oliver Daily news recently asked Cox to respond to a few questions regarding the Chamber, it’s stability, and it’s future.

ODN: It’s been about two weeks since you took over as South Okanagan Chamber President. What have you been focussing on accomplishing?
JC: “I have been focusing on getting to know the history of the Chamber and the area. We have been focusing on promoting an environment where business can thrive, and strengthening our communities one business at a time.  UNITE – CONNECT – PROSPER.”

ODN: Has the South Okanagan Board met since the change in presidency?
JC: “The board is to meet on December 13 for our monthly meeting, though I have met with the Executive Director, Denise Blashko a number of times for her insight. I find her to be a very talented and experienced person, with a real passion for the success of the SOCC and the South Okanagan.”

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Chamber Executive Director Denise Blashko at the Business Networking Night Nov. 7 at Interior Savings and Credit Union introducing Alberto Veintimilla.

ODN: The South Okanagan Chamber is actively seeking new board members. Have you had many people come forward?
JC: “We have had five people step forward to be on the board and four new members in the last two weeks. I was asked if we should have interviews, and my reply was, this is a volunteer position and enthusiastic participation is the criteria!”

ODN: If you were stopped on the street by a potential board member and they asked why they should be a part of the group, what would you tell them?
JC: “Having lived in every region in BC, working in the Tourism and business sector, the Lower Okanagan has by far the most potential for growth under a united front, as being proposed by the Executive Director and board of the SOCC.”

ODN: What are some of your short term goals leading into the new year with the SO Chamber?
JC: “Our agenda is comprised of this! Build trust and memberships in the business sector of the South Okanagan, and celebrate the potential of having a democratic direction.”

ODN: Are you considering running for president when the new board is elected?
JC: “Yes Sir! I believe I can continue to be a strong spokesperson and strong team leader allowing the strength of the membership, Executive Director and board to guide the Chamber into these exciting times for the South Okanagan.”

South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce update from Executive Director Denise Blashko:
“Nominations for the 2017 South Okanagan Chamber Board are open until the end of this week.  If you are a current chamber member and you want to play a bigger role in improving the business climate in our region and helping our businesses succeed please contact Denise at manager@sochamber.ca or 250-498-6321. We have board meetings once a month in the evenings and we host monthly events that board members are encouraged to attend – both to help the Chamber grow and to help you grow your own business. If you are not ready for the Board yet – we have several other volunteer opportunities and roles where you can help the South Okanagan Chamber build and strengthen our communities of Okanagan Falls, Oliver and Osoyoos.”   

‘The Story’

Following is the information provided on the South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce website:
“The South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce is a member based, nonprofit organization governed by the Boards of Trade Act.  We have a small team made up of our Board of Directors, Staff, Committees and Volunteers who all work tirelessly to support our local business community.

The South Okanagan Chamber officially came to be in May 2009. Prior to that there were three Chambers in our region – Okanagan Falls, Oliver and Osoyoos Chambers. The Oliver Chamber had been around since 1946. With increasing expenses and declining membership the boards of each chamber met and agreed to become a regional chamber and pool resources and efforts to support the businesses in the three South Okanagan communities.”

Please check out: www.sochamber.ca.

-Dale Cory