Yellowknife (Oct 25/06) - The Diamond Capital of North America will this week celebrate the diamond anniversary of one its most recognizable organizations.

The Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce will hold its 60th anniversary celebration during its annual general meeting scheduled for this Friday at the Explorer Hotel.

Steven Meister, left, president of the Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce and Jim Eirikson, first vice-president, are getting prepared for Chamber celebrations this week. The Yk business group marks its 60th, or diamond, anniversary this year. - David Ryan/NNSL photo

With more than 440 members ranging from small, home-based businesses to large corporations, the gathering promises to be a mix of networking and planning, said executive director Marino Casebeer.

"We hope to review our strategic plan," he said.

While the Chamber has three full-time staff members, all of the decisions are made by the elected board of directors, he added.

"My job is to carry out the vision plan," he said.

Part of that vision includes hosting a variety of networking opportunities, such as its luncheons, but it also means being the collective voice of business in the city.

For the past 60 years, the organization has lobbied the territorial and federal governments in the interest of merchants and service providers.

Along with making governments aware of businesses interests, being a member of the Yellowknife Chamber of Commerce also has a number of practical advantages, including Visa and Mastercard discounts. Members even get a break at the fuel pump.

The Chamber also offers a group insurance plan to small businesses.

"We are here for our members," said Casebeer. "We want to be a vibrant force."

A milestone like the 60th anniversary deserves to have a milestone event, said Yk Chamber president, Steven Meister.

While the annual general meeting is one of the group's largest events, Meister said this year will definitely go beyond 2005. It's been a big year with plenty to celebrate. Besides moving into a new home, the Chamber has seen a resurgence in membership with 449 firms on board.

"The staff has worked hard about informing of who we are and what we do," he said.

"It's always been a strong Chamber," said Nishi-Khon/Key West co-owner Don Yamkowy.

The travel agency has been a member of the organization for more than 20 years, said Yamkowy.

Over the past 60 years, the Chamber has bound together businesses and helped act as an effective lobby group, he said.

"The Chamber has championed the needs and wishes of small businesses and they deserve a hand," he said.