The OCC is seeking your help understanding how businesses feel about red tape in the province. The government has committed to decreasing the red tape burden on business, but requires clear input from the business community in order to translate this commitment into noticeable changes. Right now the majority of businesses across the province continue to be negatively impacted by obstructive government regulations.
Some of the corporations and local chambers from our network have formed a task force to discuss the unresolved issues with red tape in the province. With this information the OCC will be preparing a policy report with suggestions to the government on how to better adapt regulations to the needs of business. The task force has come up with six guiding principles that bring attention to both the flaws with the existing system and how that system can be improved. These principles will provide the framework for the policy report.
Through this e-mail we are opening up the discussion to you and your members in order to ensure that all businesses, small and large, Northern and Southern, have an opportunity to make their views heard. The attached form contains a breakdown of the six guiding principles that will be included in the report, and provides a space at the end of each section for businesses to add their own comments. At the end of the form, businesses are free to add anything that they feel is missing, and share their own stories about red tape, which will be featured in the report.
Each response we receive will be factored into our report, and will allow us to provide guidance to the government on how it can make regulations work for the business community. The deadline for responses is Friday September 3rd 5:00pm.
Thank you for taking the time to share your expertise on this issue. We will be sure to provide you with a copy of the final report, and keep you updated about our progress.
Go to this link to participate: https://fd8.formdesk.com/ontariochamberofcommerce/red-tape-survey
(Fort Erie) August 16, 2010~ The Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce, in keeping with itsmission to promote education, was pleased to present eight local students with $500 bursary cheques on Sunday, August 15 at Bridgewater Country Club.
The Chamber’s Bursary committee reviewed more than 25 applications and with generous financial contributions from Friendship Trail Bed & Breakfast, Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 230 Ridgeway, Dean Demizio State Farm Insurance, and Canadian Niagara Power Inc. /FortisOntario, were able to offer four additional bursaries this year.
The cheque presentation was held at a special brunch with family and friends held in honour of the deserving students which was made possible from table sponsorships from Meridian Credit Union, TD Canada Trust, Brock University, District School Board of Niagara, Lakeshore Catholic High School, Niagara College, and the Business Education Council. Special guests in attendance included Mayor Doug Martin, MPP Kim Craitor, and Anna Annunziata on behalf of MP Rob Nicholson who presented special recognition certificates and pins to the students.
Pictured from left to right are Chamber President Stephen Passero, MPP Kim Craitor, Drew Hampel (RCBHS), Victoria Serafini (RCBHS), Kelsey Kett (Lakeshore), Alexander Foreman (FESS), Jessica Wallace (Lakeshore), Jessica Fickel (FESS), Lee van Brussel (FESS), Alannah Aliberti (FESS), Fort Erie Mayor Doug Martin.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 19, 2010
For Youth By Youth – Making a Difference in the Health of Our Communities
Engaging youth in programs, services, and events is a never-ending challenge – too often, adults do the planning without including youth and end up with less than satisfactory results. The issue of youth engagement is the impetus for our project titled the Bridges Community Health Centre Youth Health Promotion Strategy: a peer-led, youth engagement approach to enhance the health of youth in Fort Erie, Port Colborne, and Wainfleet. Funded in part by Niagara Region through the Niagara Prosperity Initiatives, the project focuses on finding solutions for engaging youth in issues related to health and poverty and creating a strategy to enhance the health of our youth.
Bridges Community Health Centre (CHC) hired four part-time youth health promoters - Grade 11 students from Port Colborne and Fort Erie - to lead the development of the youth health promotion strategy for our catchment area, which will include priority setting, action items, and the creation of a set of youth-friendly service guidelines. To engage local youth in the process, the youth developed a “youth voice” survey tool and are using a variety of avenues to seek youth input, including attending events and festivals, visiting local community partners providing services to youth such as the Job Gym, holding their own rock concert in Port Colborne, and posting an on-line version of the survey on survey monkey. The on-line survey can be accessed at http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/33NMF5H.
In the fall, the youth health promotion team will hold some focus groups to further develop the strategy and plan for one or two youth health promotion initiatives to be held in the Three Bridges and Fort Erie North neighbourhoods, two of the seven priority neighbourhoods identified to receive Niagara Prosperity Initiatives funding for 2010.
-30- Bridges Community Health Centre is funded by the Hamilton Niagara Haldimand Brant Local Health Integration Network. Community Health Centres meet the needs of their communities through the delivery of comprehensive primary health care services with a focus on health promotion and community development.
Media Inquiries can be directed to:
Rhonda Barron
Bridges Community Health Centre
Email: rhonda.barron@bridgeschc.ca
Phone: (905)871-7621 ext. 2226
Fax: (905)871-9135
In order to ensure the Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce is providing the best possible value to its members, we are developing a new series of educational meetings and seminars.
We would like YOUR input to ensure the focus of our efforts will meet your needs and expectations.
Those who respond will be entered in a draw to win FREE seminar attendance! All surveys must be completed no later than Friday, July 30, 2010.
Simply fill in survey online (only 10 questions which will only take a few minutes). Go to the website below to fill out survey:
Be sure to fill in your name and business name after answering question 10 if you would like to participate in the free draw.
If you have any questions contact the Chamber office:
660 Garrison Road, Unit 1, Fort Erie, L2A 6E2
Email: info@forteriechamber.com
Fax: (905) 871-1561
In their on-going efforts to assist Ontario companies seek out and consolidate export markets, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce has partnered with the Hong Kong-Canada Business Association (HKCBA) and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) to organize a trade mission to Hong Kong and mainland China. The mission will take place from August 10 to August 18, 2010 and will be of interest to companies in the life sciences and nutraceuticals sector.
The focus of the mission is attendance at the International Conference and Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products (ICMCM) in Hong Kong, networking events and visits to life sciences industrial parks in mainland China. This mission will allow companies to explore opportunities in the Hong Kong/China markets. Interested companies should note that there is no registration fee to exhibit in the OCC booth at the conference and if eligible, can apply for additional support from the Export Market Access Program to help cover such costs as airfare and per diem.
If you should have any questions about the mission please contact Lesley Cole, International Trade Consultant at lesleycole@occ.on.ca or 416-482-5222 ext. 239.
Len Crispino
President and CEO
Ontario Chamber of Commerce
In preparation of the introduction of the HST (Harmonized Sales Tax) in Ontario on July 1, 2010, attached please find a document that answers the question “What’s Taxable under the HST and What’s Not” for your reference.
Effective April 25, 2010 through The "Niagara Prosperity Initiative", the John Howard Society ,Town of Fort Erie and the City of Niagara Falls are providing a 7 day-a-week (including holidays) public transit bus service to and from Niagara Falls. This service makes connections with both Fort Erie and Niagara Transit's buses. Transfers within Niagara Falls will be provided at no extra charge to Fort Erie passengers. This NEW route provides links to employment, healthcare and shopping. The service will be in effect until September 6, 2010. Fare for a one-way trip is $3.75.
For connections information in Niagara Falls, please call 905-356-1179.
Please visit the Town of Fort Erie website at www.forterie.on.ca or contact the Fort Erie Job Gym at 905 871-3932 if you have any questions regarding this service or contact Julie Morrison, Program Manager at the Job Gym, a division of the John Howard Society of Niagara at 905-871-3932.
Please help with the OCC's Waste Diversion Survey
Ontario’s Auditor General is conducting a review of the Ministry of the Environment; specifically, it is examining the effectiveness of the ministry’s non-hazardous waste management program.
As part of the review, the Auditor General is examining the business community’s level of involvement in reducing, reusing and recycling its waste, with the purpose of making recommendations to the Ministry on how to improve waste diversion from the Industrial-Commercial-Institutional sectors.
This review may have implications for the broader business community.
The purpose of this Ontario Chamber of Commerce survey is to seek the business community’s input on what, if any, obstacles or challenges exist in their own waste diversion programs, or whether such programs exist in the business.
Please complete this survey by Monday, May 31 at 4:00 pm.
The OCC will use your input to help shape and influence the Auditor General’s report to the Ministry of Environment. Thank you for taking the time to share your insight with us.
Workplace Violence & Harassment Requirements Take Effect June 15: “Tool Kit” for Employers
The Ontario government has released a “HOW TO” TOOL KIT, which is a template guide to help businesses comply with new requirements relating to workplace violence and harassment.(MOL’s Tool Kit for Employers: http://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/hs/pdf/wvps_toolbox.pdf )
Starting June 15, businesses must: develop workplace violence and harassment policies and programs; assess risks of workplace violence including situations involving handling of cash, dealing with potentially violent clients, working alone, working in high-crime areas, protecting valuable goods and transporting people or goods; and, identify possible ways to control those risks for employees.
All workplaces must review these policies as often as necessary, but at least annually. They must prepare these policies, ensure they are in written form, and post them in a conspicuous place at work. (Businesses with 5 employees or less must prepare the policies in a written form, but don’t have to post them in a conspicuous place, unless otherwise ordered by a ministry inspector).
Employees must be informed and instructed on the policies and programs, and such policies must address risks, and provide measures to control them. Failure to do so may result in orders to comply, or provincial fines or criminal charges.
Businesses, for instance, should be aware that among other regulations, employees can refuse to work or do particular work if they believe workplace violence is present. Employers must provide details on a workplace violence incident to their joint health & safety committee or rep within four days of it happening and inform the Ministry.
Employers should be aware that domestic violence may occur in the workplace, so they must take every precaution to protect a worker at risk of physical injury. In addition, they must tell employees about colleagues who may pose a physical risk to them.
LESS THAN A MONTH TO GO TO BE CONSIDERED FOR PROVINCIAL BUSINESS AND EXPORT AWARDS
Shine the spotlight on success in Ontario!
Nominations are now open for the Ontario Business Achievement Awards visit obaa.ca to nominate a leader in your community
Toronto – Time is running out to take advantage of the premiere Ontario business and export awards – the Ontario Business Achievement Awards (OBAA) and the Ontario Global Traders Awards (OGTA).
A dozen companies are recognized each year by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC). The winners are raising the bar in terms of innovation, export diversification, talent development, growth and community support.
“Each and every day companies in this province are putting Ontario on the world map and yet so many of their success stories go untold.” says Len Crispino, President and CEO of the OCC. “This is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the companies who excel in terms of creativity, drive and passion for doing business in Ontario.”
Nominations can be made online at www.obaa.ca in the following categories:
OBAA
• ICAO Award for Corporate Governance
• Desjardins Award for Large Business
• RBC Royal Bank Award for Small Business
• Innovation – Technology Award
OGTA
• HSBC Award for Innovation – Exports
• Export Development Canada Market Expansion Award
Over 200 companies have been recognized since its OBAA began in 1983. Past winners include Silicon Knights, The Gladstone Hotel, Inniskillin Wines Inc., Linamar Corporation, Research in Motion and COM DEV International Ltd. Self nominations are accepted. All nominations will close on Tuesday, June 1, 2010.
Awards will be presented at a gala event which will be attended by approximately 1,000 business and political leaders at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre on Monday, September 20, 2010.
For further information: Amy Terrill (cell) 416-605-8205 or amyterrill@occ.on.ca
May 3, 2010, St. Catharines . . .
Hey, Niagara, Your Symphony wants Your talent!
Can you picture yourself performing with 52 Niagara Symphony professionals?
The Niagara Symphony is searching for hidden gems of local talent to showcase at our POPS! 3 Concerts, "Hey, Niagara, You've Got Talent!" Performers will be selected through a region-wide, open audition process and make their orchestral debut next year at the Niagara Symphony's POPS! 3 concerts on February 26th and 27th, 2011.
Auditions will be conducted May 19, 20, 26 and 27, 2010, at locations throughout the Niagara Region. Associate Conductor Laura Thomas will head an audition panel of Symphony musicians, ready to uncover diamonds-in-the-rough, polish them up and bring them to shine on your Symphony stage - So bring it on, Niagara!
Next year's stars can visit www.NiagaraSymphony.org for further details, then call the Symphony office to book an audition time and location.
Watch for future announcements, when we reveal the results of our search, and join us next season for "Hey, Niagara, You've Got Talent!"
For further information contact B. J. Armstrong at
BJ.Armstrong@NiagaraSymphony.org or (905) 687-4993 ext 223
The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) and the Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce are calling for a new process to determine the appropriate level of minimum wage.
Until February 2004, Ontario’s minimum wage rate had remained unchanged for almost nine years. After consultation with the OCC, the government phased-in minimum wage increases over four years. In 2007, three more annual increases were scheduled to end in a $10.50/hour wage in 2010.
Last week it was announced that the minimum wage would increase to $10.25/hour as of March 31, 2010.
The OCC successfully argued that a staged increase would help achieve a balance between the needs of Ontario’s low-income workers and the needs of Ontario’s businesses to be competitive. Businesses would be able to budget in advance for the increased cost of wages against anticipated revenues.
Today, unfortunately, the business environment is vastly different. OCC members are faced with a rapid turn in economic fortunes which were unforeseen at the time of the minimum wage consultations. The exact result of the next scheduled minimum wage increase, is not now known. It is the hope of the OCC that businesses are able to absorb the additional labour costs.
What is needed is a process of reviewing and setting minimum wage that is transparent, inclusive and based on a wide variety of economic factors to ensure minimum wage increases help workers benefit from economic growth on a sustainable basis. The Ontario chamber network supports an independent, third party board or commission, comprising representatives from various sectors such as business, labour and social groups, to recommend an appropriate minimum wage level.
An independent process will minimize the risk of rising business costs in periods of economic uncertainty, thereby protecting jobs and the competitiveness of businesses—all the while ensuring that all benefit in times of economic prosperity.
The deadline has been extended to noon on Monday, April 19th!
In keeping with its mandate to provide business opportunity and representation in the area of education, The Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce is offering money to local Grade 12 students who plan to attend college or university this fall.
Four bursary awards of $500 each are up for grabs to local students who wish to pursue a post-secondary education but require financial assistance to meet their education costs. Students are asked to fill out an application form and submit documentation to verify their financial need.
“In support of the mission statement of The Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce, we provide financial opportunity to the education of our youth and hope that the recipients of our bursaries are great ambassadors of continuing each individual’s civil and social responsibilities. We wish them every success in their endeavors,” Chamber President Kim Zanko, explained.
Applicants must be a resident of the Greater Fort Erie area and attending a local high school within the Niagara region. All information collected will be kept in the strictest confidence and viewed only by the Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce bursary selection committee.
Application forms can be picked up at the Chamber office, 660 Garrison Road, Unit 1, or can be downloaded from the Chamber’s website link www.greaterforteriechamber.com (under NEWS). Deadline for submitting the application is Noon on Monday, April 19, 2010. Award recipients will be announced in June.
For more information, contact the Chamber at 905-871-3803.
Niagara College, along with other community colleges across the province, is pleased to offer you free "Are You Ready?" workshops exclusively to small and medium sized businesses.
Market research indicates that despite the economic current situation, a skills shortage is occurring or is about to begin in many industries. To weather these changes, local businesses must be pro-active about hiring resources and techniques. These workshops are designed to assist you to effectively recruit and hire the brightest immigrant talent and improve your organization's cultural competence by:
. Understanding business drivers for hiring skilled immigrants
. Understanding challenges with recruiting and selecting skilled immigrants
. Understanding limitations of traditional practices to source job candidates, to screen individuals and resumes and to interview candidates
. Developing strategies to work with hiring managers to increase the likelihood of identifying qualified skilled immigrants in interview settings
. Identifying strategies to increase the likelihood of identifying qualified skilled immigrants through resume screening
Please note that a Foundation Workshop must be completed before an Advanced Workshop.
Niagara College will be hosting the following workshops:
Foundation Workshop - Tuesday, March 2, 2010. 8 a.m. to noon, Niagara On The Lake Campus, Corporate Training Room, W212 . FREE of charge, but you must register.
Advanced Workshop - Friday, March 5, 2010. 8 a.m. to noon, Niagara On The Lake Campus, Corporate Training Room, W213. FREE of charge, but you must register.
REGISTER NOW, SEATING IS LIMITED!
To register, please visit www.collegeconnect.on.ca/areyouready. Or simply complete one of the attached registration forms and email it to: areyouready@collegeconnect.on.ca
For directions to our Niagara On The Lake campus, please visit: www.niagaracollege.ca/howtofindus.htm#notl
Light refreshments will be served.
For information about these workshops, please contact:
Margaret Runka, (905) 641-2252 ext. 4008, mrunka@niagaracollege.ca
New Binational Television Program Kicks Off Thursday, Feb. 4!
The Binational Tourism Alliance is pleased to announce the launch of a new television show “The Cross-Border News”, on TVCogeco starting this Thursday, Feb. 4 at 6:00 p.m.
Arlene White, Executive Director of the Alliance will host the program, which airs every Thursday from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. and Sunday from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. This informative new series will complement the successful radio programs of the same title which air Fridays 11:00 a.m. to 12 noon on 1230AM WECK in Buffalo and Saturdays 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. on CKTB AM in St. Catharines.
The program kicks off with a historic look back at the ties that bind the Canadians and Americans who live, work and play in Binational Niagara. Each week, the program will center on a specific cross-border theme from politics to culture, tourism infrastructure, education and well-known community landmarks.
“The Cross-Border News was developed to showcase the people, places and things that are happening in Binational Niagara,” advised White. “We’ve had the pleasure of working with and learning from hundreds of binational partners for over 10 years and this is our opportunity to share the stories of the great work being done in our communities.”
The Binational Tourism Alliance is a membership based, non-profit tourism and economic development organization that works with organizations and operators on both sides of the border to raise the awareness of the importance of cross-border regions like Niagara to the economy of North America and the different sectors that are involved in the development of our binational communities.
We are involved in advocacy, research, product development, marketing, training and information sharing with and on behalf of our more than 140 members from Manitoba to Plattsburgh, who in turn represent 7500 operators and organizations across the Great Lakes Region.
For more information about this new program and scheduled guests, contact Arlene White at 1-877-884-2736 x133 or arlene.white@btapartners.com
NIAGARA REGION, February 2, 2010 - Residents can now stay up to date on their Regional government by subscribing to the monthly e-newsletter, ‘Our Niagara e-news’.
‘Our Niagara e-news’ focuses on programs and services offer by Regional government, as well as highlighting important decisions made by Regional council.
“We aim to provide our residents with news they will find useful,” says Niagara Region Chief Administrative Officer Mike Trojan. “Public awareness of the services provided by the Niagara Region is an important goal for council. This e-newsletter is just one of the many ways we are trying to meet this objective.”
Recent e-newsletter stories have addressed issues such as when and where to get your H1N1 flu shot, Christmas tree pick-up schedules and an initiative to use a sugar beet juice compound to reduce the amount of road salt.
“Our Niagara e-news is a way for residents to learn how their tax dollars are put to work,” says Trojan. “This product allows the Region to show their transparency within the community. Tax payers have a right to know how their money is spent. We want Niagara region residents to know what we do and how we serve them,” he added.
The e-newsletter is the Region’s response to the results of a recently completed survey that indicated residents were interested in learning more about Regional government, in different formats, in print and online.
‘Our Niagara e-news’ is distributed the 15th of every month. Niagara residents can sign up to receive the e-newsletter at www.niagararegion.ca in either standard e-mail format or a text-only version for mobile devices. Residents can also connect with their Regional government in real time at www.facebook.com/niagararegion and www.twitter.com/niagararegion.
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Contact:
Daryl Barnhart
Web Content Coordinatorh
165 Bertie Street
Fort Erie, ON
Phone: 905-871-6577
Email: drgary@cogeco.ca
Eliud Herrera and James Eagles
Intercede International
201 Stanton Street
Fort Erie, ON
Phone: 905-871-0882
Email:
eherrera@Intercedenow.ca
jeagles@intercedenow.ca
FORT ERIE – Fort Erie organizations came together this week at the Fort Erie Multi Cultural Center to partner and coordinate efforts to help victims and families of the recent earthquake in Haiti. The group represented Niagara Catholic District School Board (ESL), Casa El Norte, First Baptist Church, Central Avenue United Church, Matthew House, Bethel Pentecostal Church, Intercede International, the Fort Erie Multi Cultural Centre and the Town of Fort Erie. They identified the needs in Haiti and those of the 167 members of the newcomer Haitian Community in Fort Erie. It was recognized it would be helpful to coordinate local fundraising efforts and determine a point organization to receive funds. Also, to determine the needs of the local Haitian Community. The large national and international aid organizations such as the Canadian Red Cross, World Vision, UNICEF, etc are set up to recognize and manage the needs on the ground in Haiti. Locally, many Haitian families are trying to locate and reunite with family members. Many local Haitians are foregoing food in order to redirect their scarce funds to pay for long distance telephone calls to Haiti in an attempt to connect with friends and family and determine the whereabouts of loved ones. Many local Haitians have now discovered family, friends and relatives have died in the earthquake while those who survived are not having their most basic human needs met.
The group of organizations decided it would be best to coordinate local fund raising efforts through one agency. The Fort Erie Multi Cultural Centre will receive cheques payable to the “Fort Erie Multi Cultural Centre – Haitian Family Reunification Fund” where these monies will be held in trust to assist Haitians living in Fort Erie to help reunite families and support local Haitian Community needs. The first step is to enlist a coordinator to be located at the Fort Erie Multi Cultural Centre who will partner with a local Haitian coordinator to mobilize efforts to identify and document local Haitian people living in Fort Erie, reunification needs as well as other basic needs. Immigration requirements include the need to lobby the Federal Government to reasonably and responsibly accelerate immigration efforts to enable people to leave the misery of Haiti and reunite with their families in Canada and Fort Erie.
Contact was made with Mrs. Arlene Heron, mother of Vanessa Johnson, who is with Mission of Hope located outside Port Au Prince. Brian Williams of NBC Nightly News recently profiled Mission of Hope demonstrated the significant amount of aid and resources distributed in such a short period of time to so many who are desperate for help. Members of Vanessa’s family continue to live in Fort Erie.
Planning is already underway for a number of local fundraising events including Intercede International, “Help Haiti Heal” an international relief day on Saturday, January 30, 2010 from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at All Nations Mission Centre, 3397 Garrison Road, Fort Erie; Pasta Night at the Italo Canadian Club hosted by Casa El Norte on March 11, 2010; Musicians Night at Crystal Chandelier on February 5, 2010 hosted by Elton Lammie. Many other events are planned at local churches and schools, including a Mission of Hope Fundraiser by Niagara Christian College and Pancake Tuesday at St. John South Adult Learning Centre. An Interfaith Church Service will be held at the Leisureplex Banquet Hall on February 6, 2010 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Many opportunities are available to help Haiti. It is also important to reach out and help Haitians who have recently made Fort Erie their home, to reunite with their families and to help them cope with the unimaginable loss and devastation this disaster has caused for their people in Haiti.
For further information please contact:
Martha Mason, Director,
Fort Erie Multi Cultural Centre,
52 Jarvis St, Unit 2
Fort Erie, ON L2A 2S4
Phone: 905-871-3641 ext 31,
After Hours: 905-994-3599
Fax; 905-871-2231
email: mmason@firststepsincanada.com
Pastor Gary Page
First Baptist Church
165 Bertie Street
Fort Erie, ON
Phone: 905-871-6577
Email: drgary@cogeco.ca
Eliud Herrera and James Eagles
Intercede International
201 Stanton Street
Fort Erie, ON
Phone: 905-871-0882
Email:
eherrera@Intercedenow.ca
jeagles@intercedenow.ca
PUBLIC SESSIONS SCHEDULED ON PEACE BRIDGE PROJECT
Six Open Houses in Buffalo and Fort Erie to Update Public on Project
The Buffalo and Fort Erie Public Bridge Authority (PBA),in concert with the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) will host a series of six open houses from January 28 to February 6, 2010, to update and inform the public about proposals and design concepts for the construction of a new U.S. Department of Homeland Security Plaza and a new, companion bridge spanning the Niagara River between Buffalo, New York and Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada.
The purpose of the project is to improve the operation and functionality of the critical international border crossing by constructing a new, modern Customs plaza and additional bridge lane capacity to facilitate expedited border crossing programs and to accommodate long term traffic growth.
Responding to earlier concerns about the need for a signature bridge design concept that more appropriately considers fish and resident and migrating bird populations, the project team has developed five signature bridge design concepts, in consultation with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) as well as Canadian and U.S. environmental agencies. The environmental agencies have deemed all five concepts acceptable.
The upcoming public meetings, which will be conducted as informational open houses, will provide details of those bridge designs and updated proposals for the border crossing plaza and other area improvements. The sessions also will give the public opportunities to share their preferences and concerns with the project team.
The first three sessions will be held in Buffalo at the New York State Armory, located at 184 Connecticut Street, from 2:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Thursday, January 28 and Friday, January 29, and from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. on Saturday, January 30, 2010.
The second round of meetings will be held at the Peace Bridge Authority Board Room, 100 Queen Street, Fort Erie, Ontario. Canada's sessions will be held from 2:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. on Thursday, February 4 and Friday, February 5, and from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. on Saturday, February 6, 2010.
The PBA and NYSDOT are in the final stages of developing the environmental impact statement for the project. Public comments collected during those sessions will be incorporated into the project record and the decision on which bridge design concept to advance in the Final Environmental Impact Statement will take into consideration all comments received. The decision will be issued later this year.
For more information on these meetings or for special accommodation to attend, please call the Peace Bridge Authority office at 716-884-6744 or look online via www.peacebridgex.com
The Peace Bridge, which was opened to traffic in 1927, has been owned and operated by the PBA since 1933. The Authority is governed by a 10-member board with an equal number of representatives from Canada and the United States. NYSDOT is the lead state agency for this project and is working co-operatively with the PBA in advancing this project.
###
Buffalo and Fort Erie Public Bridge Authority
1 Peace Bridge Plaza, Buffalo, NY 14213-2494
100 Queen Street, Fort Erie, ON L2A 3S6
905-871-1608 or 716-884-6744 Fax: 716-884-2089 or 905-871-9940
www.peacebridge.com
The Federal Economic Development Agency of Southern Ontario has announced the second intake of the Community Adjustment Fund (CAF). The announcement of $127.8 million overall funding is geared towards small and medium size businesses, non-for-profit organizations and municipalities.
How to Apply?
• Applications to access funding in 2010-11 will be accepted from December 15, 2009 - January 18, 2010 by 3 p.m. EST.
• All application information available at southernontario.gc.ca/eic/site/723.nsf/eng/00197.html.
• Contact Niagara Economic Development Corporation for additional application support at:
Alan Teichroeb, Vice President, Business Development Services 905-685-1308 extension 3421
Email: ateichroeb@niagaracanada.com
General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada Announces Over 200 Employment Opportunities for Engineers/Technologists
LONDON, Ontario – General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada announced today that they have immediate openings for over 200 Engineers/Technologists at their London, Ontario facility. Positions are available in the areas of System Engineering, Design Engineering, Human Factors Engineering, Design Services, Technical Writing, Technical Illustration, Diagnostics Engineering and Maintenance Engineering/Validation.
Further details on these positions are available at www.monster.ca using the search words, “General Dynamics Land Systems Canada”. To be considered, applications must be submitted through the Monster website.
Dave Crocker, director of Engineering Design and Development for General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada, said, “With our recently announced contracts, we have an immediate requirement for over 200 engineers and engineering technologists in a wide variety of disciplines. We are offering exciting opportunities for qualified individuals to work on leading edge technology with the world’s leading supplier of armoured military vehicles.”
On November 24, 2009, General Dynamics announced a contract with the U.S. Army to supply 724 Light Armoured Vehicles under their Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. Subsequently, on December 3, 2009, General Dynamics announced an additional contract with the U.S. Army to design the Stryker of the future.
General Dynamics Land Systems – Canada, located in London, Ontario, Canada is a business unit of General Dynamics Land Systems of Sterling Heights, Michigan. For over 30 years, more than 1900 highly skilled technical employees have designed, manufactured, delivered and supported to global customers a unique family of light armoured vehicles (LAV). More information on the company is available at www.gdlscanada.com.
General Dynamics, headquartered in Falls Church, Va., employs approximately 92,300 people worldwide. The company is a market leader in business aviation; land and expeditionary combat systems, armaments and munitions; shipbuilding and marine systems; and information systems and technologies. More information about General Dynamics is available online at www.generaldynamics.com.
Tax reform to make Ontario more competitive: Ontario Chamber December 9th, 2009 Media Releases
Toronto: The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) is pleased to see the passage of The Ontario Tax Plan for More Jobs and Growth Act, 2009 (Bill 218) as it will pave the way for increased business competitiveness, stronger communities and job growth.
“Businesses in Ontario have consistently called for smarter taxation – that is taxation that is clear and consistent, that makes it easy and inexpensive to comply, and one that does not impede or penalize investment – today’s reforms move Ontario forward in that direction,” says Len Crispino, President & CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC). “These tax reforms will make Ontario a less expensive place in which to do business and in a global marketplace where business and investment are extremely mobile, this competitive edge will lead to greater investment and more job creation.”
The OCC and the network of chambers throughout the province have been advocating since 2004 for a tax reform package that includes sales tax harmonization, the elimination of capital taxes, the consolidation of corporate tax collection, and more competitive personal and corporate income taxes. The passage of Bill 218 puts in place the final pieces in this tax reform package.
“Every Ontarian wins with today’s tax reforms because Ontario’s economy wins. It takes strong businesses to create jobs and wealth for everyone,” adds Crispino. “The recovery cannot occur on the backs of governments alone. With these tax reforms in place, Ontario companies will have the confidence and ability to get down to business and invest in our communities once again.”
These tax reforms are also endorsed by the Smart Taxation Alliance, a growing group of non-partisan leaders representing millions of workers and hundreds of thousands of employers in Ontario. The OCC is a founding member.
OLYMPIC TORCH RELAY
Coming to Fort Erie
Monday, December 21st, 2009
Show your Community Spirit and welcome the Olympic Torch to Fort Erie!!!
Festivities to start at 8:00 a.m. on Jarvis Street
FREE Pancake Breakfast Hosted by RBC
Mayor Doug Martin welcomes the Olympic Torch at 9:10 am during the “Community Stop” at RBC
Free Olympic Spirit Flags
Get your picture taken with the 2010 Olympic Torch Replica
And meet an RBC OLYMPIAN
Show your Canadian spirit and wear your best Red and White ensemble
Kids- Bring your Olympic Spirit Contest Submissions
Giveaways
Route:
8:56 am at Phipps St. and Crook St., down Phipps St. to Niagara Blvd. up Jarvis St. to the “Community Stop” at RBC at 9:10, to Central to Garrison, Last stop at corner of Garrison and Concession
Check this page and the town website;
www.forterie.on.ca; for further details
A new federal government funding intiative is taking aim at propping up local economies with a program developed for Southern Ontario communities.
FedDev Ontario is now accepting applications under the Southern Ontario Development Program (SODP) for projects that will stimulate local economies and enhance the growth and competitiveness of Southern Ontario businesses and communities.
The Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State for the Federal Economic Develoment Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), recently announced that eligible small-and medium-sized businesses, municipalities, not-for-profits, Aboriginal organizations, colleges and universities are invited to submit applications.
"Our government is creating jobs and stimulating the Southern Ontario economy," Goodyear said. "FedDev Ontario will support people, communities and businesses in the region and promote long-term growth."
The SODP takes into account consultations with community leaders and economic dvelopment stakeholders throughout the Southern Ontario Region. It will build upon the assets and strengths of communities to create an environment where businesses can thrive, and maximize the potential of Southern Ontario with a focus on economic development, innovation and diversification.
Priority will be given to organizations or enterprises located in communiteis in Southern Ontario with populations of 500,000 or less, as well as to communities whose economies are less diversidfied and/or are reliant on a limited number of employers. FedDev Ontario will also favour projects that can be started quickly and be completed by March 21, 2010.
Overall funding for the SODP is $100 million in 2009 - 2010, with $40 million available for this intake process. Applications will be accepted from now until December 1, 2009.
For more information or to download an application form, visit the website at www.southernontario.gc.ca
~Economic Development & Tourism Services- St. Catharines
The future of the automobile industry in Canada was the topic of discussion as Toyota Canada’s president and CEO, Yoichi Tomihara, took centre stage at a luncheon hosted by the St. Catharines-Thorold Chamber of Commerce at Club Roma on October 29.
Speaking to a live audience of 100, with another 66 individuals participating via online technology, Tomihara said he believes the future of industry is here in Canada where such a large and diverse market forces Toyota to adapt quickly to consumer demands.
Pointing to their record on delivering performance, convenience, safety, and lower emissions, at an economical price, Tomihara is enthusiastic of the shape of things to come.
He confirmed Toyota’s newest brand, Scion, will rollout next September and expects to re-enter the battery electric vehicle market by 2012.
Toyota Canada’s current plants are located in Woodstock and Cambridge. Tomihara says its still “ too early” to commit to any future investments in Niagara.
Pictured below is Toyota Canada’s president and CEO, Yoichi Tomihara with Fort Erie Chamber president Kimberly Zanko.
37th Annual Fort Erie Santa Claus
SATURDAY, November 21st, 2009
“A Green Christmas”
PARADE ROUTE
The parade begins at 2:00pm at the Race Track overflow parking lot and will proceed onto
Catherine Street, following Catherine Street to Central Ave, turning left on Central Ave,
proceeding to historic downtown Fort Erie, will then take a right on Jarvis Street where the
parade will end with a block party. Please ensure your entry is in place no later than 1:15pm.
For more information:
Fort Erie Festivals 20 Lewis St., Fort Erie 905-871-6454
NIAGARA REGION, October 21, 2009 – Niagara Region Public Health will begin H1N1 flu virus vaccination clinics on Monday, October 26, 2009. The vaccination has received all necessary approvals by Health Canada and is now being distributed to public health units so those who need and want it can receive it.
Today the Ontario Chamber of Commerce sent an open letter to Mr. Tim Hudak, Leader of the Official Opposition, and Ms. Andrea Horwath, Leader of Ontario’s New Democratic Party, as well as the Ontario media, regarding recent statements about the OCC report on sales tax harmonization.
The Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce's "Branding Boot Camp" on Wednesday, October 7th was a successful day of inspiration, motivation, and education!
Gerry Visca, guest speaker for the event, has written a short commentary about his experiences with our Chamber and the great audience who attended this spectacular seminar. He writes:
"I had the pleasure of delivering a full day branding boot camp last week to the Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce. I was absolutely thrilled with the venue, the professional set up, the organization and the inspired delegates. Stephen Passero and Karen Audet did an exceptional job with this event. Also, a special thank you to all of the sponsors and Mike Webb of Niagara AV (niagaraAV@sympatico.ca). To check out highlights of the day, please preview the following video. This group collaborated so well with one another. They were engaged and participated in all workshop exercises. They truly defined the Boot Camp Experience, well done. The goal is to continue taking action, this is my personal message to all of you that attended. Many of you spent time in defining and uncovering your unique ability while others spent more time developing your personal brand.
What do you want people to feel about you and your brand? What do you want most in life and for your business? What is it that you want to create? Now is the time, focus most on your end result, what do you want to create? Don't wait for the change, be the change now, take action and go for it.
You are the architect of your life so you and only you can create the conditions to allow the change to manifest. Many of you have taken action by signing up to attend the BIG THINK Niagara with me on Nov.12. This is a great start, sign up at http://www.redchairbigthink.com/ and become a part of our network. Listen to 5 world-class speakers including Mike Lipkin as we help you become the change you want to see in the world. Let us focus on you all day, from morning to evening, we will immerse you into incredible dialogue, education, motivation and inspiration. I am so impressed with the level of sponsors that have joined in with us, thank you to all. We recently brought on GIANTFM as a key sponsor who will be broadcasting some BIG announcements in the coming week. We also signed up world-class gallery owner and art connoisseur Alison Goodwin of Art Beyond Walls who will be featuring her infamous 'Pop up Gallery' a collection of some of the finest Canadian artists. This will be an exciting day to remember and life changing for some many of you. I look forward to seeing you all on Nov.12 and a special congratulations to the Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce, a group that other chambers should emulate."
To visit his webpage: Who is Gerry Visca Inspiring Now?, and to review the U-Tube video, click here: http://gerryvisca.blogspot.com/
FedDev Ontario launched the Southern Ontario Development Program today from the Small Business Centre in London. Details are included below for your information. The COBSC continues to provide Contact Centre support for FedDev Ontario public enquiries.
********
FedDev Ontario is now accepting applications under the Southern Ontario Development Program (SODP) for projects that will stimulate local economies and enhance the growth and competitiveness of Southern Ontario businesses and communities.
The Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), was at the Small Business Centre in London to announce that eligible small- and medium-sized businesses, municipalities, not-for-profits, Aboriginal organizations, colleges and universities are invited to submit applications.
To find out more about the program, please visit the web site at: http://southernontario.gc.ca/eic/site/723.nsf/eng/h_00097.html.
To read the news release and backgrounder, click on the following link: http://southernontario.gc.ca/eic/site/723.nsf/eng/00130.html.
The Minister's remarks are also posted in the speeches section.
2009 3rd Quarter Business Climate Survey -Pre-Budget Edition
As Ontario’s Business Advocate, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) seeks your voice in assessing the province’s economic health and future prosperity. Your input is vital in gauging the impacts of current economic events, public policy as well as global geopolitical events.
The OCC exclusively uses this information, in aggregate, to strengthen the voice of all businesses in communities across Ontario at Queen’s Park.
Please complete this survey by October 28, 2009 at 5:00 pm.
Thank you for taking the time to share your insight with us.
Please take a few moments to complete the 2009 3rd Quarter Business Climate Survey (Pre-Budget Edition) which can be found at the following link:
The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) is assessing how prepared members are in the event of a major business disruption resulting from a catastrophic emergency, such as a pandemic, massive power outage and the like.
With the recent onset of the global swine flu, or H1N1 virus, and the coverage it is receiving in the world media, the OCC would like to know how you feel about reaction to H1N1 and how prepared you are to keep your business on track during such an emergency.
We will use the results of the survey to improve on strategies that will assist business with their emergency preparedness, including the promotion of the OCC’s Pandemic Planning Toolkit, developed following the events of SARS and the power blackout which is available for download at occ.on.ca/pandemic-planning-tool-kit
We ask that you please complete this short survey by Friday, September 11, 2009 at 5:00 pm.
Thank you for taking the time to share your insight with us.
Please take a few moments to complete the 2009 Emergency Preparedness Survey which can be found at the following link:
(Fort Erie) August 15, 2009~ The Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce, in keeping with its mission to promote education, was pleased to present seven local students with $500 bursary cheques on Sunday, August 14 at Bridgewater Country Club.
The Chamber’s Bursary committee reviewed more than 40 applications and with generous financial contributions from P. Mines Customs Services, Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 230 Ridgeway, and Dean Demizio State Farm Insurance, were able to offer three additional bursaries this year.
The cheque presentation was held at a special brunch with family and friends held in honour of the deserving students which made possible from table sponsorships from Meridian Credit Union, Brock University, District School Board of Niagara, Niagara Catholic District School Board, Niagara College, and the Business Education Council. Special guests in attendance included Kim Craitor, MPP and Anna Annunziata on behalf of MP Rob Nicholson, who provided the students with recognition certificates.
Recipients of this year's bursary awards are, from left to right: Nicole Marr (FESS), Deron Li (Lakeshore), Lindsey Middleton (RCBHS), Alexis Muscat (Lakeshore), Jennifer Kaestner (RCBHS), Victoria Watson (RCBHS), and Mitchell Aliberti (FESS).
Niagara Falls, ON – The staff and volunteers at Old Fort Erie are preparing the final details for the 23rd annual Siege Weekend at the Old Fort on August 8th and 9th. The Siege weekend recreates the excitement and drama of the War of 1812 with an action packed roster of events planned for the entire weekend.
Highlighted events include a battle re-enactment on Saturday at 2:00 p.m., as well as one that evening at 8:00 p.m., where hundreds of re-enactors will participate in Drummond’s Night Assault on the Fort. Follow the action up-close and then inside, as there will also be a dramatic Lantern Tour of the Old Fort at 9:00 p.m.
A memorial service honouring all of those who fell in battle 195 years ago will be held on Sunday morning at 10:30 a.m., and the last battle re-enactment, the American Sortie from the Fort, is to be held on Sunday at 1:00 p.m.
Hours: Saturday, August 8th, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
8:00 p.m. - Evening Battle, 9:00 p.m. – Lantern Tour
Sunday, August 9th, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Admission: Entrance includes Day Programs, or Evening Lantern tour. Battles are free.
Adult: $9.25 Children 6-12: $5.15 plus tax, Children under 5 are free
Located at 350 Lakeshore Road in Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada, Old Fort Erie is approximately 30 kilometres (19 miles) or a scenic 20-minute drive south of Niagara Falls and is close to the Peace Bridge from Buffalo, New York. The grounds and the main floor rooms of the buildings are wheelchair accessible.
Your purchases help great things happen. Every dollar you spend with Niagara Parks helps to preserve the nature and heritage of the Falls and the Niagara River Parkway. Niagara Parks has operated without tax dollars since 1885.
Full schedule of events attached. For more information, please visit www.niagaraparks.com or contact:
Tony Baldinelli
Communications Manager
The Niagara Parks Commission
(905) 371-0837
23rd Annual Siege of Old Fort Erie
Schedule of Events
Fort Tours Start at the Welcome Centre, on the Hour from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
At 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. Guides will Escort Tours to BATTLES. Saturday, August 8th
10:00 a.m. – Fort and Camps open to the public
11:00 a.m. – South Field – Major Buck’s Surrender & ‘Stars & Stripes’ run up
12:00 p.m. – Inside Fort – Uniforms of the War of 1812
1:00 p.m. – South Field – British Artillery Demonstration
2:00 p.m. – South Field – BATTLE
3:00 p.m. – Camp Displays
4:00 p.m. – Inside Fort – U.S. Artillery Demonstration
6:00 p.m. – Fort and Camps will be closed to the public
Saturday Evening
8:00 p.m. – South Field – BATTLE- Drummond’s night assault on the Fort
9:00 p.m. – In the Fort – Lantern tours – ‘After the Battle’ see the effects of the Failed British Attack!
Separate Tickets are required and are available at the Gift Shop
Regular Admission Applies
Tours start at the Front Gate of the Fort
Sunday, August 9th
10:00 a.m. – Fort and Camps open to the public
10:30 a.m. – Memorial Service at the Monument
1:00 p.m. – South Field – BATTLE- ‘U.S. Sortie’
2:00 p.m. – In the Fort – American Evacuation of the Fort & ‘Union Jack’ run up
4:00 p.m. – Camp closed to the public
5:00 p.m. – Fort Closed
Old Fort Erie is owned and operated by The Niagara Parks Commission
No tax dollars are used to maintain this National Historic Site
The schedule is subject to change without notice.
NIAGARA REGION, July 31, 2009 – Niagara Regional Council has approved a new
Development Charges by-law, increasing charges on new housing and commercial
developments and easing the burden on taxpayers who currently pay many of the
costs associated with new development in Niagara.
The approved new development charges will come into effect on September 1 of this
year, and be phased in over a period of five years. Starting in September the new
charges will be $8,000 per single family unit (up from $5,827), $7.50 per square foot
for commercial development (up from $3.38), and industrial charges will remain
frozen at $2.20 per square foot. It will also eliminate a number of existing exemptions
such as institutional and public uses as well as a revision to the smart growth
incentives.
“The Region has been working on the review of its development charges by-law for
close to two years, and throughout this process stakeholder input was requested and
considered,” said Thorold Mayor Henry D’Angela, who Chairs the Region’s
Development Charges Task Force. “Developers have known for some time that these
changes were coming. Due to the current economic conditions the Task Force
recommended a phased approach to allow developers time to adapt to the changes.
We are doing the right thing for all taxpayers and for Niagara’s future with this
balanced approach.”
For years, the region has had among the lowest development charges in Ontario, with
other southern Ontario regions charging substantially more. Even with the phased in
increases, development charges in Niagara will still remain amongst the lowest in
Ontario. This increase is necessary to cover the costs driven by development growth
for such things as roads and water and wastewater plants among other things.
“This by-law is meant to ease some of the burden on taxpayers, who currently pay
much of new development costs,” said John Bergsma, Commissioner of Corporate
Services. “The by-law strikes a balance between development charge revenues to
achieve the Region’s Capital Budget Affordability Strategy, the potential impact on the
level of development in Niagara and taxpayer affordability issues. The higher rates are
vital for Niagara as we embark on crucial infrastructure projects over the next
decade.”
- 30 –
For more information, please contact:
John Bergsma
Commissioner, Corporate Services
905-685-4225 ext. 3292
After Hours – 905-401-0925
July 29, 2009 ~ Canadian Niagara Power Inc/Fortis Ontario:
The Count Me In! Community Challenge, taking place between now and August 14, the anniversary of the North American blackout in 2003, is now underway. The Community Challenge is a joint initiative of the OPA, the City of Woodstock (which has led a municipal Blackout Day Challenge for the past several years), the Association of Municipalities of Ontario, the Independent Electricity System Operator and the Electricity Distributors Association.
The Town of Fort Erie and the City of Port Colborne have both entered to compete in this challenge. If you do not live in either of these municipalities, and would like to find out if your municipality has entered the challenge, please visit the Count Me In! website at www.countmeinontario.ca.
Not only can your community “win” by you signing up for the challenge, you will also be entered into both the daily draws but also a grand prize draw (details below). All you have to do is sign up! There is no tracking of your household energy savings that day – just the community as a whole.
The Count Me In! Community Challenge is comprised of two challenges (with results announced in August):
- The highest percentage drop in electricity consumption on August 14, and
- The highest per capita participation in the Count Me In! pledge drive between now and August 14.
HERE’S WHERE YOU CAN TAKE PART. The purpose of Ontario Power Authority’s Count Me In! and Win Contest is to encourage residents in the Province of Ontario to take the Count Me In! Pledge offered by the Ontario Power Authority. The Contest begins on June 1, 2009 at 9:00am and ends August 7, 2009 at 12:00pm.
To be eligible to enter the Contest, you must first take the CMI Pledge available at www.countmeinontario.ca. Once you have completed the CMI Pledge, you will be automatically entered into the Contest.
As Ontario’s Business Advocate, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) seeks your voice in assessing the province’s economic health and future prosperity. Your input is vital in gauging the impacts of current economic events, public policy as well as global geopolitical events.
The OCC exclusively uses this information, in aggregate, to strengthen the voice of all businesses in communities across Ontario at Queen’s Park.
Please complete this survey by June 19, 2009 at 5:00 pm.
Thank you for taking the time to share your insight with us.
Please take a few moments to complete the 2009 Mid Year Business Climate Survey which can be found at the following link... http://surveys.occ.on.ca/ls/index.php?sid=14826⟨=en
Win one of several prize packages donated by local businesses simply by participating in a short survey !
The Business Development Centre of Greater Fort Erie is launching a Market Information Guide to assist small business in the Greater Fort Erie area.
The BDC's Market Information Guide is an up-to-date overview of the economic climate of the Greater Fort ERie area for both new and existing small businesses.
You can complete the survey online at: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=QdELourZ8e4avwefFNGxvg_3d_3d
OR you can get a survey form to fill out by contacting the BDC at 45 Jarvis Street, Fort Erie (905) 871-7331
On July 1, 2010, the new Harmonized Sales Tax of 13% is scheduled to go into effect, combining the 8% PST and 5% GST.
On sales that have been subject to both PST and GST, the consumer's cost will be unchanged.
On products and services that are now subject to only GST, the new HST tax will mean that the consumer will be paying 8% more tax.
Manufacturers in Ontario will no longer need to pay sales tax on the cost of goods and services purchased for the manufacturing of their product. The Ontario Chamber of Commerce says the Harmonized Sales Tax will create a stronger Ontario economy with higher real wages, a higher standard of living, higher productivity, lower business costs and increased investment. This model reflects that manufactuers will be able to reduce the price of their product, but assumes that manufactuers will pass along the savings to the consumer.
The Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce is starting to hear from a number of segments of the Ontario business community, reporting on their situation and how HST will affect them.
We want and need to hear from our members on this very important issue. Please take a moment to convey your answers to the following questions via e-mail to the Chamber at: info@forteriechamber.com
We will summarize these responses and issue a press release on April 15th outlining the Greater Fort Erie Chamber's position on the HST and method of implementation.
What is the nature of your business? Manufacturing______________ Retail/Service____________
Do you understand the impact the HST will have on your business? Yes_________ No________
What affect with the HST have on your business and why?:
Positive______ Negative_______ No change________ Not sure________
Please read attached file to see how you can nominate an individual, group, or business who should be recognized for outstanding achievements and efforts towards sustaining a healthy environment in the Niagara Region. For full details click here:files/Environmental awards brochure.pdf
Fort Erie Racetrack will be open for live thoroughbred racing on May 2, 2009!
For full details on the latest developments from the Economic Development Tourism Corporation, Town of Fort Erie, and Ontario Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association's efforts to purchase the track, go to: www.hbpa.on.ca/
(Fort Erie, February 20, 2009) In keeping with its mandate to provide business opportunity and representation in the area of education, The Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce is offering money to local Grade 12 students who plan to attend college or university this fall.
Four bursary awards of $500 each are up for grabs to local students who wish to pursue a post-secondary education but require financial assistance to meet their education costs. Students are asked to fill out an application form and submit documentation to verify their financial need.
“In support of the mission statement of The Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce, we provide financial opportunity to the education of our youth and hope that the recipients of our bursaries are great ambassadors of continuing each individual’s civil and social responsibilities. We wish them every success in their endeavors,” Chamber President Kim Zanko, explained.
Applicants must be a resident of the Greater Fort Erie area and attending a local high school within the Niagara region. All information collected will be kept in the strictest confidence and viewed only by the Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce bursary selection committee.
Application forms can be picked up at the Chamber office, 660 Garrison Road, Unit 1, or can be downloaded from the Chamber’s website link www.greaterforteriechamber.com (under NEWS). Deadline for submitting the application is April 3rd, 2009. Award recipients will be announced in June.
For more information, contact the Chamber at 905-871-3803.
On January 22, 2009 the Ontario Chamber of Commerce released a comprehensive report on sales tax reform in Ontario, as one of the most effective ways to prepare Ontario for a period of stronger economic growth. For full details please visit this site:
Fort Erie, February 18, 2009- The Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce is serious about it's role as the Voice of Business!
With the new year upon us, we want to ensure we capture 2009 realistically and ask that you take part in a confidential survey (attached).
The survey is intended to uncover the intricacies of our own local economic state projected for the next 12 months. The results of the survey will be published in our new and improved Membership & Buyer's Directory slated for publication in April 2009.
We encourage you to take a few minutes to fill out the survey and share your thoughts as it pertains to business.
Niagara Region, February 18, 2009- News released today by the Toronto 2015 Pan American Games Secretariat was positively received by Niagara Region.
Niagara will become the site for outdoor water sport competitions in rowing and canoe/kayak sprint events, shold the 2015 Pan / Para Pan American Games be awarded to the Greater Toronto Area/ Golden Horseshoe region of Ontario.
(BUFFALO, NY/ FORT ERIE, ON)- Just four months from now U.S. and Canadian citizens will no longer be able to cross the Niagara River to enter the Unites States by simply showing a regular driver's license and one other piece of government issued ID.
Beginning June 1, 2009, in accordance with the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) only the follow documents will be permissible:
Ottawa, JANUARY 27, 2009- The Canadian Chamber of Commerce today welcomed Ottawa's plan to respond to the global recession.
"Since the meltdown in global financial markets last fall, we have called for a comprehensive strategy to limit the impact of the recession on Canada and to speed recovery. While there are elements that we would have designed differently, the government has consulted extensively and has answered our request to show how it thinks we can get our economy moving again. In the interest of all Canadians, the plan should be given a chance to work," said Chamber President and CEO Perrin Beatty.
In his Budge speech, Finance Minister Jim Flaherty responded postively to a number of the Canadian Chamber's proposals to mitigate the impact of the recession adn stimulate the economy, including:
FORT ERIE:Supporters are rallying behind a comprehensive report on sales tax reform in Ontario, as one of the most effective ways to combat the economic challenges facing the province.Prepared for the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, the report demonstrates that Ontario households, businesses and government will all benefit from reform of Ontario’s sales tax.
“Harmonization of Ontario’s sales tax with the GST will lead to a stronger economy with higher real wages, a higher standard of living, higher productivity, lower business costs, and increased investment,” explains Kim Zanko, President of the Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce.
“ This is one of the most important policy directions we can put in place today to position us for a strong recovery at the end of our current economic difficulties,” adds Len Crispino, President & CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.“Our research has disproven all of the common objections to sales tax reform, providing the opportunity for the province and the federal government to make a serious commitment to enter into negotiations in order to make it happen.”
The report points out that there is currently a willingness federally to work with provinces wishing to harmonize their sales taxes, and demonstrates that harmonization in Ontario will give the federal government the fiscal room to provide compensation to offset any short term loss in provincial revenues.
Made in Ontario, The case for sales tax harmonization illustrates three potential options for the harmonization of Ontario’s sales tax with the GST:
·a simple harmonization which replaces the PST with an 8% tax harmonized with GST
·Made-in-Ontario alternative A which exempts the purchases of children’s clothing, “clean” energy, labour intensive services and the MASH sector (Municipal, Academic, Schools, Hospitals) from the Ontario portion, and
·Made-in-Ontario alternative B which zero-rates financial services from the Ontario portion
All three options build in an Ontario sales tax credit for low income Ontarians.In addition, the alternative models provide opportunities for government to advance such things as a poverty agenda, incentives for green technology, and support for municipalities in terms of their burgeoning infrastructure deficit.
“Companies in Greater Fort Erie are in need of a lower cost of doing business so that they may be more competitive in the long run,” emphasizes Zanko. “Smart tax policy just makes sense.”
NIAGARA REGION, January 12, 2009 – Regional Chairman Peter Partington met with John Baird, federal Minister of Transportation, Infrastructure and Communities today to discuss and advance Niagara Region’s infrastructure priorities.
The attached link provides a "Save Our Hospital" update, that includes a cut-out letter to Premier McGuinty which ran in local newspapers recently. The ad urges individuals to submit comments directly to the Hamilton Niagara Haldimand Brant Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) prior to the January 18th deadline. Please encourage family, friends, neighbours and colleagues to mail in the letter to the Premier, write or call in their own comments to the Premier as well as submit comments to the LHIN.
Comments from Southern Ontario's Chambers of Commerce
Compiled by Wendy Peters
The Business Executive invited the Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade in southern Ontario to participate in a short questionnaire on how the economy is affecting their various communities. Businesses across the province are worried about the downturn in the economy, job losses, replacing traditional, well-paid jobs, access to skilled labour and the ability of governments to keep up with municipal infrastructure to accommodate burgeoning communities.
We asked the chambers the following three questions, and below are their answers:
1. What are you hearing on the street about the economy - in your area in particular?
2. What is the biggest economic challenge you are seeing in your community?
3. What are the biggest issues your chamber is dealing with at the present time?
A 200-page comprehensive report serves as a community check-up that measures the quality of life and vitality of Niagara. Released today....read more at:
2009 Business Climate Survey : Member Input Requested
Dear member,
The Ontario economy is under pressure from all sides as 2008 draws to a close and the environment for business is expected to continue to be challenging in 2009. As a result, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce needs your input more than ever on what the provincial government should be doing to help Ontario businesses.
The OCC wants to hear how the slowdown is affecting your business, and we need your input on what actions can be taken that will help your businesses and industries thrive.
The War of 1812 Bicentennial Public Forums, held four times in November to guage the public's interest and level of excitement about how our town can celebrate and participate in activities to mark 200 years of peace between two nations have been completed.
Hundreds of exciting and innovative ideas were born from the sessions and now it's time for the Planning Committee to sift through and fine tune their findings. Workshops are planned over the coming weeks where a final recommendation will be completed and submitted to the Town of Fort Erie for further consideration.
Thanks to everyone who filled out questionnaires, attended the meetings, offered their input. Stay tuned for more information!
Filled with tidbits from across the region, including mention of Eurocopter's summer expansion and the unveiling of the new Niagara Brand: files/NEDC_eNews_Nov08.pdf
This familiar phrase will be heard loud and clear as excited bidders lay claim to airplane rides over Niagara Falls, kitchenware, hot tubs, tools, jewelry, artwork, restaurant vouchers, gift baskets, weekend getaways, spa gift certificates, golf packages, wine tours, and even an eligible bachelor at the Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce's Gala Auction to be held in the Grand Ballroom of the Holiday Inn Fort Erie on Friday, November 21.
"As the main fundraiser for the Chamber's bursary program, our annual auction doubles as a fun evening of entertainment while raising money which ultimately helps local high schools students further their post-secondary education," said Karen Audet, Operations Manager of the Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce.
Auctioneer Doug Embleton will guide buyers through this unique shopping experience with hundreds of generously donated items up for bid. The evening kicks off at 5:30 p.m. as ticket holders register and preview the auction items. Refreshments, inlcuding beef on a bun, sweet potato fries, and assorted salads will be served at 6 p.m. with the live event beginning at 7 p.m.
Tickets are $15 and include admission to the event as well as a delicous array of refreshments. Contact the Chamber office at (905) 871-3803 for more information or to purchase your ticket.
-Saturday, November 15, 2008, The Fort Erie TIMES-
New Municipal-Provincial agreement represents significant progress
For Immediate Release
October 31, 2008
Toronto: The agreement announced today between the municipalities of Ontario and the provincial government is a significant step in the right direction, according to Ontario’s Business Advocate, and particularly noteworthy considering the current pressures on provincial revenues.
“The ten year plan announced today to upload 1.5 billion in social assistance benefits and court security costs from the municipalities will go a long way to easing the burden on the property tax base, and addressing the long held concerns of our members,” explains Len Crispino, President & CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. “Today’s progress is even more significant because it represents a major step forward despite the challenges presented by today’s economic climate.”
The Ontario Chamber of Commerce will continue to work with the government to address any outstanding property tax issues so as to continue to build a stronger province and municipal-provincial framework.
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The OCC represents over 60,000 businesses through 160 local Chambers of Commerce and Boards of Trade, and has been Ontario’s business advocate since 1911. Its advocacy and policy initiatives focus on six areas key to the economic well-being of the province: health; education; energy; finance & taxation; transportation & infrastructure; and border issues.
Mark Your Calendar for New Year’s Eve in Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls, ON – The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) and the Niagara Falls New Year's Eve event partners are pleased to once again host the FREE New Year's concert in Queen Victoria Park. NPC and event partners will welcome Roger Hodgson (formerly of Supertramp), Canadian rocker Kim Mitchell, presented by Ontario Lottery Gaming, and up and coming Canadian talent Justin Hines, who will warm up the stage beginning at 8:00 p.m.
The free New Year’s concert in Queen Victoria Park draws approximately 30,000 people each year, with two spectacular fireworks displays that will take place at 9:00 p.m. and at midnight. Live television coverage will run from 11:00 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. on CHCH and CanWest Global affiliate stations. The celebration annually features food and beverage vendors, as well as an outdoor licensed area. As always, the presence of security and policing will be on-site to ensure people’s safety throughout the night.
“New Year’s Eve is one of Niagara Falls’ busiest and best nights of the year,” said NPC Chairman, Jim Williams. “We would like to express our thanks to stakeholders for their commitment to another three years of holding this widely popular celebration. It is exciting to see the whole city coming alive with more to do than anywhere else in Canada. Visitors and residents alike should come down and enjoy our entire tourism district in full swing – from great music in Queen Victoria Park to high-energy gaming at Casino Niagara and the Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort; from the family fun of Clifton Hill to our romantic restaurants and spectacular hotel getaways,” Williams added.
Make an evening of it! Start your night off at the new Elements on the Falls Restaurant, with its unparalleled view of the brink of the Falls at NPC’s Table Rock. During the show, Edgewaters Tap and Grill and the Riverview International Buffet, both located at Queen Victoria Place are your closest warm-up spots within steps of the concert stage. Stop in for dinner before the show or warm-up over a late night beverage, all while taking in the beauty of both the American and Horseshoe Falls.
Event partners include: The Niagara Parks Commission, The City of Niagara Falls, Fallsview Tourist Area, Ontario Lottery Gaming, Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort, Victoria Centre Tourist Area, Clifton Hill Tourist Area, VIA Rail and other stakeholders within the city. For more information, log on to The Niagara Parks Commission website at www.niagaraparks.com. Updates will occur regularly.
The Niagara Parks Commission operates North America’s most completely maintained parks system with 1,720 hectares of parkland and 56 kilometres of roads and recreational trails. It is, in fact, a city within cities operating, controlling and maintaining its own police force, road maintenance, snow removal and transportation systems and it has done so without taxpayer support since 1885.
The War of 1812 Bicentennial- Celebrating 200 Years of Peace
Are you ready, willing and able to participate in planning, commemorating and celebrating the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 over the next several years? The legacy of two countries was written in blood and sweat two centuries ago in Fort Erie. The events of the War of 1812 -- continuously fought in Fort Erie for three years -- has resulted in an unbroken succession of nearly 200 years of peace between Canada and the United States and the development of family, social and economic bonds between communities in Fort Erie and Buffalo.
The Planning Committee is a group of community stakeholders representing a cross section of the Town of Fort Erie. They have met to discuss possibilities of creating something of lasting impact to mark the Bicentennial of the War of 1812...not only for ourselves, as proud residents, but for people around the globe who will look to our town when the time comes to remember the War of 1812!
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
Contact the Coordinator at: coordinator@forteriecanada.com
Attend the public forums or fill out a questionnaire to suggest your ideas!
PUBLIC FORUMS to be held from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm on the following dates: (Expect theatrics, education, idea sharing, community spirit and pride)
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 5th at Lions Hall, Ridgeway (Crystal Ridge Community Centre)
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12th at Holiday Inn Fort Erie
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 18th at Stevensville Hall
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 25th at Centennial Library
Questionnaires are being circulated in town or can be picked up at the Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce or Economic Development Tourism Corporation office, 660 Garrison Road, Fort Erie.
NIAGARA REGION, October 8, 2008- For the fourth year in a row, Niagara Region and the Niagara Economic Development Corporation are calling for entries for the Niagara Community Design Awards, which recongize and celebrate excellence in community design. This year's awards continue to focus on projects that enhance the build environment, efficient use of land, and demonstrate creativity and vision.
Nominations for the awards, to be presented next January, must be submitted to Terri Donia, Planner/Awards Coordinator, 905-685-4225 et. 3374 no later than 2:00 p.m. o Wednesday, November 26, 2008.
The award categories include Small Scale Project, Larger Scale Project, Urban Design, Adaptive Re-use, Brownfield, Policy and Plans, and Leadership and Legacy.
View a list of past award winners and further details and requirements for submitting nominations in the various categories, at www.niagararegion.ca/smarterniagara.
Smarter Niagara is an initiative of Niagara Region and the Niagara Economic Development Corporation aimed at promoting the benefits of smart growth development and good planning processes.
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Niagara Health System was directed to submit a Hospital Improvement Plan to our Local Health Integration Network on July 15, 2008. The plan makes a number of recommendations to provide quality and safe health care to Niagarans and make the best use of our resources. You are invited to learn more about the many recommendations in the Hospital Improvement Plan at www.niagarahealth.on.ca Click on the green Hospital Improvement Plan box. Let the facts form your opinions and have your say in the YOUR INPUT survey section of the website. INFO
The Niagara Economic Development Corporation is currently updating it's Niagara Canada Business Directory. If you are a new business in the manufacturing or business-service industry this is a free listing and a valued desk top reference for many companies across Niagara. click on link for more information on how to view your existing listing or contact information to ensure you are in the directory
A Niagara Health System Info Sheet Hospital Improvement Plan The case for Women and Children's Health Click on link to review a 2 page document with quick facts and information prepared by leading Obstetricians and Gynecologists from across Niagara the case for Women and Children's Health
Ontario small businesses have a new partner in their drive to expand to foreign export markets. Export Market Access, A Global Expansion Program launched by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) and funded by the Ontario Government, will help Ontario small and medium sized businesses enter markets that otherwise would have been beyond their reach. Export Market Access is a cost sharing program funded by the Ontario Government that will assist Small and Medium-sized Enterprises in Ontario in their efforts to expand into new export markets. In recognition of the abundance of opportunities in markets around the globe, preference will be given to those outside of the United States. EMA GLOBAL EXPANSION PROGRAM
Click here to view the latest edition of the *Chamber News* _keeping our members informed_
"Newsletter":http://greaterforteriechamber.com/files/NEWSLETTERjuly08.pdf
*GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES FEDERAL AGREEMENT TO ISSUE ENHANCED DRIVER LICENSES IN NEW YORK STATE*
"New York State EDL":http://www.ny.gov/governor/press/press_0527081.html
The Niagara Training & Adjustment Board is pleased to present the first in its series of Niagara labour market publications for 2008/09: MANUFACTURING
To view the PDF file, please click on the link below:
"Niagara Workforce May 2008":http://greaterforteriechamber.com/files/niagaraworkforceNTAB.pdf
*HELP SUPPORT YOURNIAGARA.CA* _YOUR COMMUNITY PORTAL_
"YOUR NIAGARA":http://www.yourniagara.ca Niagara’s community portal, is a publicly funded one-stop gateway to information and services for the region’s residents. We invite all chamber members who have not done so to *add your business* to the almost 3600 businesses listed in our database. Reach your customers easily by providing your information, including your web site and email links and an optional map. *There is no charge for listing* because this site has been built “by the residents for the residents” through the Smart Communities project.
Chamber members also receive a 15% discount for advertising on the site and to say “thanks for your support”, the first five Fort Erie businesses to advertise will also get the opportunity to be added to the Featured Businesses section of our site. Consider adding a link to www.YourNiagara.ca from your web site to provide information to your customers and prospective employees about our great region.
Events Calendar is free for listing any events. When you add the event you can upload one jpg or gif image at the time of adding the information into the system (unfortunately it can’t be added once you submit the listing).
If you have any questions regarding this exciting regional/community website please contact
Lynne Rabak, Manager
YourNiagara.ca
Business Education Council
3340 Schmon Parkway, Unit 2
Thorold ON L2V 4Y6
(P) 905-684-7200 ext. 1910
(F) 905-684-4230
Carefully researched and compiled by the _Ontario Chambers of Commerce_ through grassroots efforts to initiate a dialogue between all stakeholders at every level regarding a better way to provide health care in Ontario.
"A SECOND OPINION":http://greaterforteriechamber.com/files/ASECONDOPINION.pdf
_The Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce_ is proud to have available for the youth in Fort Erie four awards of five hundred dollars available to high school students continuing their education at a post secondary institution. Please fill out the application and return it via mail or in person to the Chamber offices at _660 Garrison Road Unit #1_. Please call ahead if planning to stop in *905-871-3803*
"BURSARY APPLICATION 2008":http://greaterforteriechamber.com/files/BURSARYAPPLICATION2008.pdf
NEW
WELLSPRING NIAGARA
Stevensville Satellite Centre
Wellspring Niagara will soon be offering introductory programs to cancer patients and caregivers in Fort Erie. The Stevensville satellite centre will be open every Tuesday and Thursday, starting May 13th, 2008.
Introductory Programs include:
Drop-in Programs:
Peer Support
Relaxation & Visualization
Registered Programs:
Reiki
Programs are offered to meet member demand and interest.
For more information about program dates and times or to register, call 905-684-7619 or 1-888-707-1277.
Wellspring Niagara Cancer Support Centre
Stevensville Satellite Centre
2763 Stevensville Road, Unit 3
Stevensville, ON L0S 1S0
905-684-7619 or 1-888-707-1277
Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce holds Annual General Meeting with the highlight of inducting the New Board of Directors
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 21, 2008
_Ridgeway_ The Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce’s 61st Annual General Meeting was held last Thursday at Buffalo Canoe Club with a capacity attendance of 150 members from both the Chamber and the Fort Erie Economic Development & Tourism Corporation. Mayor Doug Martin was on hand to induct the 2008-2009 Board of Directors into the Chamber.
Ms. Kimberly Walpole of P. Mines Customs Services is the newly appointed President of an organization that she feels is beginning to be a voice that is heard, with the strength of over 340 businesses as members and growing. Ms. Walpole also has great pride in serving with the 15 other individuals that comprise the complete Board of Directors for the Fort Erie Chamber.
Gina Ramkissoon of Last Mile Wireless Internet will join the executive as Vice-President, while Carmen Masi of Crawford Smith & Swallow will remain the Treasurer. Joseph Barker _Prudential Town Centre Realty_, Elisabeth Biers _Elisabeth Biers Marketing_, Frank Dedonato _TD Canada Trust_, Helen McCreadie _Business Development Centre of Greater Fort __Erie_, Dr. Ted Ogilvie _Ogilvie Chiropractic_, Stephen Passero _Pastries Rene_ and Barbara Scarlett _Century 21 Today Realty_ are returning Directors for 2008-2009.
Newly elected board members include; Courtney Bonito of Canadian Niagara Power, Marina Butler of Erie Personnel Corporation, Frank Demizio of the Niagara Health System, Denise Faraday of Meridian Credit Union, Tamara Pierce of M & M Meat Shops and Andria Willick of Community Living Fort Erie.
The several years of dedicated service that each of the Board Members not returning cannot go without notice; Mr. Doug Embleton of Niagara Auctions, Mr. Darren Flagg of Benner Funeral Services, Ms. Velvet Tomassini with Investor's Group and Mr. Donald Willick owner of Diamond Promotions will be missed as integral components of a well run Board of Directors. The good news is that all will remain Chamber Members and continue participation in the community.
Of special interest to *Not for Profit and Small Businesses* - _apply by APRIL 30th to improve accessibility._
In light of the new Provincial Accessibility Standard in Customer Service,
compliance for Private Sector in Ontario by 2012 to help out in the area of physical barriers.
The Enabling Accessibility Fund (a new fund for not-for-profit organizations and
for small businesses) was announced the other day.
The fund is supposed to be for accessibility related issues (ramps, elevators, doors etc).
FOR YOUR INFORMATION - The Call for Applications is now open.
For the Enabling Accessibility Fund web site, Please click on "HRSDC ACCESSIBILITY ISSUES":http://www.hrsdc.gc.ca/en/disability_issues/eaf/call2008/index.shtml
Available funding for accessibility improvements - *application deadline April 30th.*
Effective January 31, 2008, oral declarations of citizenship alone will no longer be accepted by U.S. Customs.
Requirements for U.S. and Canadian citizens seeking entry into the United States through a land or sea border are as follow:
* U.S. and Canadian citizens ages 19 and older will need to present a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's licence, along with proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate or naturalization certificate
* Children ages 18 and under will only be required to present proof of citizenship, such as a birth certificate
* Passports and trusted traveler program cards - NEXUS, SENTRI and FAST - will continue to be accepted for cross-border travel
All existing nonimmigrant visa and passport requirements will remain in effect and will not be altered by this change.
For further information, please visit:
"The U.S. Department of Homeland Security website":http://www.dhs.gov/xnews/releases/pr_1196711811270.shtm
We recently upgraded our website with a new design, with the ability control the information through out the site, and much more.
You can now become a member by completing our online application form, and _membership fees are not due until your application has been approved_ - we'll notify you by email.
The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) and the Greater Fort Erie Chamber of Commerce are calling for a new process to determine the appropriate level of minimum wage. 
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Niagara Region, February 18, 2009- News released today by the Toronto 2015 Pan American Games Secretariat was positively received by Niagara Region.
The attached link provides a "Save Our Hospital" update, that includes a cut-out letter to Premier McGuinty which ran in local newspapers recently. The ad urges individuals to submit comments directly to the Hamilton Niagara Haldimand Brant Local Health Integration Network (LHIN) prior to the January 18th deadline. Please encourage family, friends, neighbours and colleagues to mail in the letter to the Premier, write or call in their own comments to the Premier as well as submit comments to the LHIN. 
