Fielding new Chamber of Commerce president

The Bonnyville and District Chamber of Commerce has a new president as of October 2nd.

Robyn Ducharme will step out of the role after spending 10 years as part of the Chamber’s board of directors, primarily in an executive role, and Lise Fielding will be assuming the role.

“It’s been amazing the 10 years,” said Ducharme.

“When I first joined the Chamber of Commerce I just wanted to do my part to help, and I had no idea what the next 10 years was gonna bring. I’ve made a ton of friends and have been involved in so many amazing initiatives.

“I’m definitely not going anywhere or saying good-bye, just see you on Main Street.”

Ducharme’s exit officially marks Fielding as the Chamber’s longest-standing member at over 15 years.

“I’ve got big shoes to fill, but I’m feeling really fantastic about the role,” said Fielding.

“Robyn’s done an amazing job as president, and I’m still planning on picking her brain, but I’m excited to continue working towards our goals.

“One, in particular, I want to tackle is the relationship between the Chamber and businesses in town, because I often hear the question of ‘what do we pay our Chamber for? What do we get out of it?’

“We hear this time and time again, and I would really love to bring clarity to that in my first term.”

A significant portion of the Chamber’s activity for 2020 has been geared towards its Business Resiliency committee.

The campaign is meant to help local businesses navigate the complicated world of government resources, with the aim of providing assistance to Bonnyville business owners experiencing economic hardships resulting from COVID-19.

“We’re always here, thinking of the long game,” said executive director Serina Parsons. “If we need to pivot on how we do work and get things done, we will. That’s why we’re here.”