Rick Shaver, Cornwall Chamber of Commerce - July Message

As the Cornwall & Area Chamber of Commerce continues its advocacy issues, it looks, among other sources, for support and input from its elected officials. While there are times when we agree to disagree on various matters, the Chamber believes it has exceptionally strong allies in Queen's Park and on Parliament Hill.

PHOTO CREDIT - CornwallSeawayNews.com

Cornwall - Jul. 8, 2011 - Hello everyone and welcome to the lazy hazy days of summer. I hope that after a busy and productive first half of 2011, most of you are ready for some down time along with some well earned vacations with your family.

From a Chamber perspective, we've now hosted the first two of our innovative Pub-Nite mixers and I'm pleased to report that the Schnitzels event was every bit as well received and well hosted as the one held at the NAV Centre. We plan to take a break during July and August but mark your calendars now for the September 20 Pub-Nite to be hosted by Kelsey's.

In my June President's Message, I talked about arbitrated settlements and the negative implications they can have on municipalities like ours. The ministry responsible appears to be of the view that the current process is an equitable one. Your Chamber respectfully disagrees and is continuing to lobby.

As part of our lobby effort, we will be seeking support from the United Counties and its six Townships, and have written the President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce asking that he utilize the weight of the hundreds of provincial chambers to pressure the government for changes to the legislation. We will keep you informed as things progress.

As the Chamber continues its advocacy on this issue and others (notably, the smoking issue), it looks, among other sources, for support and input from its elected officials. While there are times when we agree to disagree on various matters, the Chamber believes it has exceptionally strong allies in Queen's Park and on Parliament Hill. It will continue to seek guidance and direction from both these individuals as opportunities or, matters of concern present themselves.

Going forward to the fall season, I should tell you that your Chamber has some new program ideas on the drawing board and we'll be making some announcements over the next few weeks. But - what about you?? Do you have an idea for a program or, an event that you believe would benefit the community and perhaps, prove to be profitable for member businesses? If you do, we want to hear from you!

Finally, and while it is still some months away - Board elections will soon be upon us. As you know, we lost two of our respected members and coupled with those completing their terms, there will be a number of Director seats available. Our current Board is an active and productive one and I believe you would enjoy being a part of it. Give it thought over the next few months and when the call for nominations goes out - let's hear from you.