Rotary Meeting April 25, 2013

We were treated today with a presentation on the SOCC (South Okanagan Chamber of Commerce) by the President, our own Holly Plante! Holly gave us a really great presentation on a portion of all that the SOCC does to promote and support businesses in Osoyoos, Oliver and Okanagan Falls. The SOCC is a non-profit business association made up of 9 directors, 3 from each community, representing over 300 members. Holly shared stats with us that showed that 82% of residents believe that the COC does help the economy so a high level of credibility exists. 
Priorities for 2013 include reaching out to the media; calling on businesses (each director will visit 25 member and 10 non-member businesses) to take a 'health check' and input; they will meet with all 3 Town Councils in support of economic development; build community ties between the 3 communities, promote a shuttle system, work to avoid protectionism while facilitating all stakeholders. They will also continue to support local events, such as the Slow Food Festival this weekend, including outlying communities like Keremeos and the Similkameen. 
2013 will also see the SOCC raising awareness for a more 'open for business' policy for new businesses; promote the National Park and hosting and sponsoring a long list of events that bring prosperity such as the Festival of the Grape, Oyster Festival, business excellence awards, 10 annual B2B mixers, all candidates forum (last week) and business planning seminars. Whew....good thing they have such a talented, energetic President! 
Other Rotary news included Cheryle announcing a wine sponsor for the Lobster Fest and a committee meeting for next Wednesday at 1 at the golf club; golf and Cactus Jalopy updates and a Board Meeting for May 1 at 5:00. 
Craig and Janice are both members of the Oliver/Osoyoos Search and Rescue and Craig announced that there is a great fundraising dinner and auction at the Watermark on June 14, and we can get the tickets ($60) from them. Craig won the 50/50 so only needs to buy one more!
Finally, a reminder that our Isadora is starring in the school's musical performance on Friday and Saturday nights at the mini-theater and invites everyone to attend....admission by donation to the drama club.