We are pleased to announce the start of our new Chamber Lunch & Learn series for 2017! One of our missions here at the Chamber is to provide opportunities for members of the business community to learn, share, and network. With that in mind, we are hosting numerous "Lunch & Learn" sessions throughout the remainder of the year. These sessions will be on topics of interest to the business community in the Drumheller area and will take place from 11:30 am - 1:00 pm, typically on the third Tuesday of the month.

Join us for the March Lunch & Learn on Tuesday, March 21st at the Badlands Community Facility. We will be hosting the Canadian Association of Oilwell Drilling Contractors (CAODC), who made headlines in 2016 with their "Oil Respect" campaign. The CAODC is touring Canada to give a voice to Canada's oil and gas workers and their families, to underscore the tremendous economic impact of the industry on the national economy, and provide fellow Canadians with an opportunity to support an industry reeling from tens of thousands of jobs losses.

Registration is $15 for Chamber members and $20 for prospective members.

Booths are selling fast for the Spring Expo in Drumheller, but if you act fast you can still get space at Drumheller's only annual trade show.

When: April 21-23 at the Greentree Mall. 92 booths in both 8x8 and 10x10 layouts. Larger booths available upon request.

Why book a booth? Trade shows are a great way to reach potential customers and clients, and to gain exposure for your products or services to thousands. Many people want to shop local but aren't aware of the businesses we have in the valley and what they offer. Help them find YOUR business!

We also have many sponsorship opportunities available starting at just $50, and are accepting promotional items for the "swag bags" we hand out to attendees.

Chamber Elects New Board Members at AGMChamber Elects New Board Members at AGM

The Drumheller and District Chamber of Commerce welcomed new Board members at their Annual General Meeting held on March 23, 2017 at the Badlands Community Facility. Elected for three-year terms with the Chamber of Commerce were:

• Nathan Fleming of RBC Royal Bank, who joined the Board for a three-year term in 2014 and was re-elected
• Jeff Hall of MNP
• Cindy Clark of the Canalta Jurassic Inn

The Chamber also said farewell to two Board members - Past President, Landon Bosch of Centre Street Insurance and Darcy Thompson of DCT New Age Promotions. The Chamber thanked the outgoing members for their years of dedication and commitment.

The evening began with a wine and cheese networking reception, followed by the Annual General Meeting. Reports were given by Chamber President, Shelley Rymal and Executive Director, Heather Bitz. Audited financial statements for the organization were also presented. The evening concluded with an open forum.

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Registration is now open! When: Friday, August 18. Where: Dinosaur Trail Golf & Country Club

The "Jurassic Classic" is an excellent networking opportunity on an amazing course. Join us for 18 holes of golf with games, food, prizes and great company at the Dinosaur Trail Golf and Country Club.

REGISTRATION is OPEN! Register online here or Click here to download the form. The deadline to register is August 11.

Proceeds from the tournament support our Business Leaders of Tomorrow Scholarship program, which provides scholarships to local students pursuing post-secondary business programs.

We are also seeking sponsors, door prize and silent auction donations, and businesses or groups interested in hosting games and contests on the course. It's a great opportunity for exposure at a fun-filled event!

• Snack or Beverage Sponsor - $150 + volunteer
• Hole Sponsor - $250 + GST and hole prize
• Breakfast Sponsor- $500 + GST *SOLD*
• Lunch Sponsor- $750 + GST *SOLD*
• Dinner Sponsor- $1000 + GST
• Door Prize and Silent Auction Donations Needed

Do you know of a business, group or individual in our community that deserves some recognition? We want to know about it! Nominate them for the 2017 Business Excellence Awards!

Nominations will be accepted from now until August 25, 2017.

Fan voting is back this year! From September 4-8, the public will be able to vote for who they would like to see win. These votes, combined with the scores given by our Business Excellence Awards Committee, will determine the award winners.

Award categories:

• Small Business of the Year: Awarded to a business that has been in operation for at least two years, that has 10 or less employees, and that best reflects the outstanding spirit and success of the Drumheller area.
• Large Business of the Year: Awarded to a business that has been in operation for at least two years, that has more than 10 employees, and that best reflects the outstanding spirit and success of the Drumheller area.
• Most Promising New Business: Awarded to a new business that has been in operation for less than two years, and that best demonstrates potential for growth, a high level of social, cultural, and environmental awareness, a commitment to the wider community; and that engages in continuous learning or other improvement opportunities.(Formerly called Rookie Business of the Year)
• Arts, Culture & Community Award: Awarded to a business, non-profit or other formally recognized group that demonstrates outstanding achievement and contribution in the area of arts, culture, or community, and at the same time develops business acumen and management practices to ensure their long term sustainability.
• Diversity Leadership Award: Awarded to an organization that embraces diversity in their workforce, encourages respect and inclusion, eliminates discrimination and barriers, and helps to create welcoming and inclusive workplaces.
• Business Professional of the Year Award: Awarded to an individual, manager, or employee who is active in the business community and/or non-profit community, and that demonstrates professionalism and a passion for making our community the best place to work, live and do business.