JULIE LAWLOR
WESTSHORE – After writing the title for this article, I realized that it could be read in more than one way. Certainly, I know many people will be glad to say good-bye to 2020! I was, however, thinking more along the lines of expressing gratitude as I reflect on the year that we’ve experienced. I am certainly finding that gratitude is an antidote to the stress and anxiety most of us have felt at some point in 2020 (or are still feeling).
As we are a member-based organization, I would like first of all to thank the members of the WestShore Chamber of Commerce for your continued membership during a very challenging year. In spite of dealing with unprecedented times in your businesses and organizations, you have made supporting our work a priority. Membership dues are our first and largest source of income, and it is thanks to you, our members, that we are able to advocate on behalf of business, promote what you do and connect you through a range of support and services. Thank you members! It is no understatement to say that we couldn’t do it without you.
I would also like to acknowledge the Mayor, Council, and staff of the City of Colwood, District of the Highlands, City of Langford, District of Metchosin and the Town of View Royal. I know you have worked tirelessly to support our communities since COVID-19 arrived on our shores – and the work isn’t over yet. Thank you to the City of Colwood, the City of Langford and the Town of View Royal for your fee for service support of the work of the WestShore Chamber. While we appreciate these relationships every year, we have been especially grateful for them in this year of almost no events, given that events pre-COVID were our second largest source of income.
Last but certainly not least, huge thanks to the Goldstream Gazette and Black Press. We have partnered on the Best of the WestShore Awards over many years, and 2020 took our gala event in a whole new direction. Instead of an evening dinner and celebration, thanks to Black Press we could offer you four pre-recorded and interactive presentations, one each night from October 26-29. You can check these out on our YouTube channel if you’d like to learn more.
For stakeholders, sponsors, and supporters I have not thanked by name, please know that this is due to lack of space, not lack of appreciation! Thank you for making it possible for us to serve the community in 2020, and I look forward to working together with you all in 2021.
Julie Lawlor is Executive Director at the WestShore Chamber of Commerce.
