The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce and B.C. Hydro Powersmart are challenging members to become more energy efficient in Canada’s first-ever energy conservation program targeted specifically to business.
The 60-day challenge kicks off with a green breakfast seminar, Sept. 1 at the Tolko building in Vernon, with a presentation from Green Step. As business energy advisors for LiveSmart B.C., Green Step will discuss the opportunity for Vernon businesses to receive free energy assessments and will give practical suggestions for businesses to become greener, leaner energy users.
Also speaking will be a panel representing companies that have already taken steps towards conservation: Dave Weatherill of Briteland Holdings, Robin Baycroft of Silver Star Mountain Resort, and Bob Fleet, vice-president of environment and Forestry at Tolko Industries.
Businesses do not have to come to the breakfast to take part in the program, but it will be worthwhile to do so. The challenge for businesses will be to commit to and implement four energy-saving tactics and to submit their list to the chamber before Oct. 31 to be eligible to win prizes, including a full registration package to the SustainAble Communities conference, Feb. 27 to March 1 in Kelowna, a one-year Vernon chamber membership and more.
If you do register for the breakfast, you will have a chance to win an energy consultation from Green Step, valued at $500.
For more information, and to register, call events manager Kim Bourke at 250-545-0771.
At the end of the challenge, B.C. Hydo will provide a report showing just how much energy was used for the period compared to the pervious calendar year. This type of program has never been tried before in Canada and Vernon chamber members are strongly encouraged to take up the challenge to become energy conservation leaders in Canada.
– The Vernon chamber will also participate in another first when it hosts the North Okanagan’s first-ever speed networking and consumer trade fair, Thursday, Sept. 29, 4 to 8 p.m. at the Vernon recreation centre auditorium.
Sometimes the best customers are the other exhibitors at trade fairs, so we have created a B2B and a B2C trade fair to help maximise your promotional investment.
This will be a first-of-a-kind event combining a speed networking business to business session with a consumer trade fair.
Exhibitor space is open to all members of the Greater Vernon, Armstrong, Lumby and Enderby chambers to display products and services.
– The Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce strength comes from the diversity of its membership. Check out the new members page on our website: www.vernonchamber.ca.
Aircom Business Solutions, offering affordable Internet and telephone service for businesses in the Okanagan; Basket Case Picnics, gourmet picnic baskets for personal and corporate events; Budget Brake and Muffler; Canada Water Depot, the original water and water accessories supplier in Vernon with 24 hour, self-service access; Canterbury Court, independent senior’s residence; Condos to Castles Furniture and Decor Outlet, contemporary to traditional, all at outlet prices; Crystal Blue Uniforms, the largest selection of medical uniforms/scrubs in the North Okanagan; Driving Hands, your designated driver using your own vehicle; Excel Fitness; programming for specific needs, such as movement disorders, balance issues, post-rehab programs, pre- and postnatal and osteo-fit; Fitness West, inspiring people in the community to understand the value of health and fitness; Jobie Waughman at Freedom 55 Financial, helping clients reach their financial security goals with solid financial security planning; Info-Tel Directory, providing an innovative source of information for businesses and residents; Margherita’s Pizza, taste the famous pizza, named for a queen; Melan PR, communication strategies for media and public relations; Season’s and Salon Spa with spectacular Okanagan Lake views; and Sub City Donair, the unique tastes of old world Mediterranean recipes.
George Duffy is the general manager of the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce.