“These are hopeful times and we can see the end of the pandemic and a chance to get our lives back,” Williams says, adding that the Chamber’s 2021 Business Awards recently celebrated the many incredible stories of organizations and entrepreneurs who found innovative ways to be successful — our Pivot Pilots. “We’ll need these leaders now as we make sure all businesses can take part in the recovery. We want to extend a hand to everyone who needs it now to make sure you have what you need to be successful.”

The Chamber is calling on provincial and federal governments to step up their advocacy efforts after US President Joe Biden signed off on the Alaska Tourism Restoration Act.

Greater Victoria Harbour Authority CEO Ian Robertson said in a GVHA newsletter he's working to make sure cruise ships return to Victoria when regulations allow. The industry is worth $130 million per year to our regional economy and creates 800 jobs.

Major tourism attractions have less than two weeks left to apply for a grant of up to $1 million. The province announced last week it set aside $50-million for the BC Major Anchor Attractions Program. Funds are available for not-for-profit organizations and businesses, and can be used for payroll, rent and "utility costs related to restarting or ramping up operations in preparation for gradual reopening."

The application window is open until June 7, with funds provided in July.

Council meetings will run a little more efficiently in the District of Saanich after the municipality adopted a new procedure bylaw. The new rules are meant to save time, including using a consent agenda to allow for non-controversial business to be addressed quickly. If an item requires more consideration, a member of the public or an individual councillor can ask for it to be added to the regular agenda.

There’s a growing buzz building at pharmacies and immunization clinics across Greater Victoria as the light marking the end of the pandemic is getting a lot brighter.

I must admit, getting vaccinated was a profound moment for me. There was a hum of anticipation among those waiting their turn, a feeling of community and doing your part. Some were even welling up with tears knowing they would soon get their much anticipated vaccination — and from seeing the joy on the faces of those who had their shot and were heading out into the sunshine.

The better days we’ve been working so hard for are a little more tangible now. BC’s immunization plan is rolling out faster than anticipated, and it’s looking like we will have our summer of safe celebration.

The Canadian Chamber is looking for guidance on their advocacy work with the Canada Revenue Agency. As a business, what changes will make it easier for you to fill out your tax forms?

If you have a peeve or a bright idea on how tax forms can be digitized, consolidated or eliminated, let the Canadian Chamber know by filling out an online form.

What's one small change that would make a big difference to you?

In the latest Chamber Chat, Bruce Williams speaks with Julian Daly of Our Place Society, Kelly Roth of the Greater Victoria Coalition to End Homelessness and Murray Langdon of BC Housing.

Special thanks to our series sponsor: Island Savings

The Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan is now offering prescription medication delivery for all Chambers Plan members through PocketPills starting June 1.

Looking for more information on how to use this new benefit? For more than 17 years, Jack Insurance and Financial Services has helped Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce members design a Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance plan reflecting the size and requirements of their businesses. For more information, contact Ryan at Jack Insurance