An energetic champion of Castlegar

“Working in a collaborative aspect is the only way that we can drive the economy"

Tammy Verigin-Burk, left and Castlegar councillor Deb McIntosh. — photo courtesy Castlegar & District Chamber of Commerce

Executive director of the Castlegar and District Chamber of Commerce Tammy Verigin-Burk is what every community needs: an exuberant champion for the town, its people and businesses.

Verigin-Burk was born and raised in Castlegar, and her travels and life experiences finally led back home. The telephone line crackles with energy as her steady voice champions chamber members and the community at large. She's definitely thrilled to be back and working in a capacity where she can serve Castlegar.

“Working in a collaborative aspect is the only way that we can drive the economy,” Verigin-Burk, “and make sure that we also sustain what we presently have.”

To that end, the chamber supports town council's initiatives to bolster the local economy. Verigin-Burk enthusiastically supports the town's investment in splash ponds at Millennium Park, and points to the renovation of the local abandoned theatre. The new owners of the facility, young artists, appealed to the community for help in restoring the landmark. The community responded beyond expectations.

“It’s been a big draw to downtown,” said Verigin-Burk. “They've done a fabulous job. The support is enormous.”

Verigin-Burk's main focus is on the over 270 active members of the Chamber of Commerce, making sure they have the resources to be successful.

The Castlegar and District Chamber of Commerce/Visitors Centre team, from left: Tammy Verigin-Burk, Susan Stewart, Anna Kaytor. — photo courtesy Castlegar & District Chamber of Commerce

“We have the knowledge base that we can point them in any direction they need to go,” said Verigin-Burk, who refers to the chamber as “911 for the business community.”

What’s happening in 2015

Verigin-Burk’s 2015 is shaping up to be a busy one. First of all, the chamber is bringing back the West Kootenay Trade Show April 17 to 19 at the Castlegar Community Complex. Verigin-Burk said the show will be triple the size of what it used to be and is an opportunity for local and regional companies to showcase their businesses.

In April, a number of business people from Castlegar, Trail and Rossland will travel to China for a networking trip in Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou and Hangzhou. (Kootenay Business will track the inaugural trip and report on participants’ experiences.)

Then there’s Taste of Castlegar, a one-day September event that gives people the chance to mingle and sample food from local restaurants and pubs.

Working and volunteering in Castlegar makes Verigin-Burk aware of the necessity of pulling together.

“It takes a whole community in order to make our town economically viable,” she said.