Summer may be upon us in two short weeks, but you'd never know it based on all this cool and wet weather, or the Greater Langley Chamber of Commerce's incredibly busy June schedule.

The chamber is marking its 81st birthday this month with a party (formally known as its annual general meeting), again at the Coast Hotel and Convention Centre mid-month.

Headlining that gig is none other than the jolly [but definitely not green] giant otherwise known as Rich Coleman - Minister of Energy and Mines and Minister Responsible for Housing.

We can expect the Fort Langley-Aldergrove MLA will be offering an update on his work with his multiple ministry duties and how that impacts on the Langleys.

"We look forward to his provincial update," said soonto-be chamber past-president Denni Bonetti (Bonetti is still prez until the AGM, at which time current vice-president Angie Quaale is expected to step up and take the reins).

This meeting is set for Tuesday, June 19 at the hotel, 20393 Fraser Hwy., with networking at 5 p.m., followed by dinner, elections, and Coleman's presentation starting at 6: 30 p.m.

The cost for the dinner is $30 for chamber members, but $45 for non-members. Pre-registration is a must by 5 p.m. on June 15 at the chamber office, 604-530-6656 or online at www.langleychamber.com.

COLLISION EXPERT JOINS BC CHAMBER BOARD

Now speaking of past presidents from the chamber, Bonetti's predecessor Milt Kruger has taken on some new duties.

During the BC Chamber of Commerce's meeting in Penticton late last month, Kruger added his list, and some local representation, on their board of directors. He's joining reps from throughout the province (Abbotsford, Duncan, Terrace, Victoria, Prince George, Vernon, and even Cranbrook, who will be setting policy during the coming year.

ALDERGROVE COMPANY HOSTS NETWORKING

Also on the Langley chamber's agenda this month is a visit to the easterly end of town - Aldergrove, and specifically the Gloucester industrial park.

The chamber's Open Late For Business event is being hosted at the Best Western Plus Country Meadows (3070 264th St.) on Thursday, June 28, from 4: 30 to 6: 30 p.m.

This monthly event, hosted by different chamber members, gives the host profile and allows members to network in a casual environment.

While this event is free, again an RSVP is necessary.

BUSINESS BOSSES HIT THE GOLF COURSE

In one week, 148 golfers are expected to hit The Redwoods Golf Course to have some fun and raise money for the chamber. I've been told of a few cancellations for the annual chamber golf tournament, so there might still be a chance to get in on the June 14 event that will see the shotgun start at 11 a.m. followed by a barbecue dinner. Admission is $175 per golfer, but anyone interested better call the chamber quick: 604-530-6656.

rhooper@langleyadvance.com