Tuesday E-mail - December 21, 2010

Chamber Happenings:

Chamber Holiday Hours
>The Chamber office will be closed December 24, 2010 at 12pm and will re-open on January 3, 2011 at 8:30am. We wish everyone a safe and Happy Holiday.


Chamber Business Breakfast

The Chamber Business Breakfast will take place on Wednesday January 5, 2011 start time 8am at the Log Cabin Inn. With special guest Minister of Industry MP Tony Clement. Cost is $15.00 tax/grat in for a hot buffet breakfast and an opportunity to hear what hot topic items are happening.

Tickets are available at the Chamber office or you can RSVP ahead and pay cash at the door.
As the Chamber will be closed during the stated Christmas break if you’re interested in attending the Breakfast with Minister Tony Clement on January 5th please ensure you call to rsvp or drop by the office to pick up your tickets before Friday December 24 at noon.


Chamber Annual General Meeting

The Chamber’s Annual General Meeting will be held on January 10th, 2011 at 5:00pm at the West Parry Sound District Museum. We encourage all members to attend this meeting.


Copyright Modernization Act - OCC

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) has requested support from it’s members in regards to the proposed Copyright Modernization Act- Bill-C-32 which would see the modernization of the act.

The board of directors feels strongly that this is an issue relevant to business and although perhaps not directly affecting our membership it’s a cause worth supporting.

If you have any questions or would like to know more information on this proposed legislation please visit the OCC web site at www.occ.on.ca.

What’s Happening in our Business Community

10 Digit Dialing - January 15th

Starting on January 15, 2011, businesses and consumers in the 705 region will have to adopt 10-digit dialing – the area code followed by the phone number – for all local communications.

In addition, on March 19, 2011 a new area code 249 will also be introduced. For your local calls, you will always enter 10 digits (area code + local number) Anyone who already has a number with area code 705 will keep the same number.

What’s Happening with our Members

Click 1 - On the move

Chamber member Click 1 offering computer & network consulting and support services has moved to 49A William Street in Parry Sound. Congratulations on the move!

DBA Hospitality Store Open

A reminder that the Downtown Business Association Hospitality store will be open this week offering Free gift wrapping, draw baskets, popcorn and hot chocolate.
Wednesday (22nd) - 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Thursday (23rd) - 1:00pm - 4:00pm
Friday (24th) - 11:00am - 3:00pm

Think Local First

While finishing your last minute shopping this week be sure to Think Local First and support our
local businesses. When you chose to shop locally you are not only helping our economy but also encouraging local job growth, helping the environment and promoting entrepreneurship.

Tuesday E-mail - November 30, 2010

What Is The Chamber Doing For You?

Business After Hours

Our next Business After Hours event is on December 8th at Dunn’s Parry Sound Self Storage, Parry Sound’s newest indoor self storage facility. Meet, greet and network with other Chamber members while enjoying some snacks and beverages. Please see the the following blog post for further information. RSVP’s should be directed to Kathy at the Chamber office, kathy@parrysoundchamber.ca or (705) 746-4213


Social Media, don’t be left behind

A reminder to all those who sent a RSVP, this seminar is happening tomorrow December 1st at the Stockey Centre. Registration is at 8:30am with the event running from 9-Noon.

We encourage all attendees to bring a unwrapped gift for the Salvation Army Christmas Drive.
Brought to you by a partnership between the Chamber, Georgian Bay Country Tourism and the Georgian Bay Women’s Network.


Chamber Happenings:

OCC Advocacy for Apprenticeship Ratios

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) has solicited our input in regards to the changes proposed to the “Role of The College of Trades”. The College of Trades is being phased in over the next three years to transfer administrative responsibilities for the skilled trades out of the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities and into an arms-length, self regulating, industry-led institution. The OCC is lobbying to see an increase for the apprenticeship
program worker to worker ratio that includes on the job as well as the classroom training component.

If you are currently in the skilled trades and would like to see the ratio of apprentice to skilled increased please respond back to Perry at perry@parrysoundchamber.ca


Chamber Annual General Meeting

The Chamber’s Annual General Meeting will be held on January 10th, 2011 at 5:00pm at the West Parry Sound District Museum. We encourage all members to attend this meeting.


Upcoming Business Workshops & Seminars

REDAC Manufacturing Seminar

The Regional Economic Development Advisory Committee Redac is hosting a Manufacturing Seminar on December 7th. The Chamber supports this event and encourages all local businesses related to Manufacturing to see the following blog post.


PARO December Workshops

PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise provides programs and services to residents across Northern Ontario who are ready to start, grow or build new opportunities. The sessions are available free of charge and open to all Parry Sound and area residents (both men and women) though Contact North distance education delivery system. The Contact North Center is located at 60 James Street, suite 201. Please register by e-mailing : buildingbridges@paro.ca.

It’s Your Money - Business Expenses & Budgeting!
December 1, 2010 - 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
with Barbara Gauthier - PARO Centre
Do business expenses and budgeting leave you confused?
We will help you make sense of it all...
• Variable vs. Fixed Expenses
• What is your reliable income?
• How to budget for your business

Secrets to Success
December 1, 2010 - 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m.
with Maggie Holbik, Crystal Clear Coaching
Do you want to reach your next success level? Are you struggling to make a profit? When success is the only option!

Hitting the Books! Record Keeping
December 8, 2010 - 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
with Brenda McDougall - PARO Centre
What to do with all that paper that flows in and out of a business...
• Filing Mechanics and systems
• Record retention guidelines
• Bank statements, cancelled cheques, accounts payable, account chart of accounts, posting invoices and payments

Best Foot Forward
December 8, 2010 - 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m.
with Brenda McDougall - PARO Centre
How much thought and time do you give to presentation?
Whether it’s how you appear to your customers or how you present yourself for a job, whether in writing or in person... this workshop is for you!

Don’t Take it For Granted!
Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC)
December 15, 2010 - 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.
with Linda Braun
• An introduction to the NOHFC
• How do you know that you are eligible
• How to apply


What’s Happening in Our Community?

Health and Safety, it’s the Law

Did you know that if your workplace has 20 or more employees, you are required to have a joint health and safety committee with at least 2 members trained and certified in health and safety?
For more information on how this law effects your business visit www.wsps.ca/cert or call 1 877 494 WSPS (9777)


Don’t forget, when planning your Christmas Shopping “Think Local First” and support our local business community and your fellow members.

Tuesday E-mail - November 23, 2010

What Is The Chamber Doing For You?


Business After Hours


Thank you to Hidden Bay Leadership Camp for hosting our last Business After Hours Event. A wonderful time was had by all at the high tea enjoying the delicious spread put out by their chef Sabine Kosalka. It was great to see the facilities and all they have to offer our community.


Our next Business After Hours event is on December 8th at Dunn’s Parry Sound Self Storage, Parry Sound’s newest indoor self storage facility. Meet, greet and network with other Chamber members while enjoying some snacks and beverages.


Please RSVP to Kathy at the Chamber office, (705) 746-4213 or kathy@parrysoundchamber.ca




Social Media, don’t be left behind - Free Seminar, Dec. 1st


This exciting seminar will help your business to better navigate the world of Social Media and Online Marketing with a purpose. Open to all Parry Sound Area Businesses this event will teach you about using social media effectively to create a return on investment and put people through your businesses doors.


Brought to you by a partnership between the Chamber, Georgian Bay Country Tourism and the Georgian Bay Women’s Network.


Please see the November 5th blog post for further information. To RSVP please contact the Chamber at (705) 746-4213 or kathy@parrysoundchamber.ca.


Registration is free but we encourage all attendees to bring a unwrapped gift for the Salvation Army Christmas Drive.




E-commerce Event (February)


In the following blog you will find information on a seminar we are currently planning to run with the Business Centre in February. The topic will be E-commerce. We are looking for feedback on what aspects of E-commerce you wish to learn more about. Please see the following blog post for further information on the Seminar and send your feedback to Jessie at the
Chamber: jessie@parrysoundchamber.ca or call (705) 746-4213.




Ontario Chamber of Commerce Window Clings


Becoming a member of the Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce you also become a member of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC).


We have recently received 2011 OCC member window clings. If you are a member of the Chamber and would like to receive a OCC window Cling for your business please stop by and see us at the Chamber office, 70 Church Street, Parry Sound.




Chamber Happenings:


Membership Survey:


Thank you to our members for taking the time to respond to our latest survey regarding changing the number of communication emails you receive from us.


The response was pretty well unanimous in that you only want to receive one email a week from us as in the past. We’ll be refreshing the look of the Tuesday email and will continue to ensure that you have the latest information on what the Chamber, our members and the community is doing.


In regards to attaching flyers the response was less so we’ll take the information to the Membership Committee for review and will advise once policies have been put into place.
Thanks to all for responding and you’ll be seeing future survey requests in the future.




Chamber Logo


We encourage each Chamber member to add our logo onto their website and any promotional materials. This is a sign of not only strength by belonging to a Chamber but also solidarity with
your fellow members.


If you would like to use our logo please e-mail jessie@parrysoundchamber.ca




Chamber Annual General Meeting


The Chamber’s Annual General Meeting will be held on January 10th, 2011 at 5:00pm at the West Parry Sound District Museum. We encourage all members to attend this meeting.




Upcoming Business Workshops & Seminars


Women in Business Lunch


Are you a woman in business looking for great ideas? Join Barb Kerr, CFP for lunch to hear business tips & ideas to grow your business. Network with others sharing their successful business experiences!



When: Tuesday November 30th
11:30 AM – 1 PM
Where: Wellingtons Pub & Grill
Cost: $11.95 (plus tax and gratuity)


Reserve a spot for you and a friend with Barb or Kathy at (705) 746-8753 or email barb.kerr@investorsgroup.com




Georgian Bay Women’s Network Dinner & Guest Speaker


The Georgian Bay Women’s Network invites local women to join them for a festive Christmas Dinner and presentation from Leslie Bradford on ‘Ego In The Workplace’.


When: Thursday December 9th, 2010 - 5:30pm
Where: Wellington’s Banquet Room
RSVP to Susan Tait at susan@cbdc.parrysound.on.ca or (705) 746-4455.

Tuesday E-mail - November 16, 2010

What Is The Chamber Doing For You?

Upcoming Business After Hours

Join Hidden Bay Leadership camp this Wednesday November 17th for a ‘High Tea’. Chef Sabine Kosalka will be presenting a selections of teas, English sweets and sandwiches.

Please RSVP to Kathy at the Chamber office, kathy@parrysoundchamber.ca or (705) 746-4213.


Social Media, don’t be left behind - Free Seminar, Dec. 1st

This exciting seminar will help your business to better navigate the world of Social Media and Online Marketing with a purpose. Open to all Parry Sound Area Businesses this event will teach you about using social media effectively to create a return on investment and put people through your businesses doors.

Where: The Charles W. Stockey Centre
When: December 1, 2010
Registration: 8:30am
Event Start: 9:00am
Event End: Noon
Cost: Free, RSVP required

To RSVP or for more information please contact the Chamber at (705) 746-4213 or kathy@parrysoundchamber.ca

Brought to you in partnership with Georgian Bay Country Tourism and the Georgian Bay Womens Network. This event is funded in part by Parry Sound Area Community Business and Development Centre in support of economic development in West Parry Sound and by the Business Centre - Nipissing Parry Sound Inc.


OCC Window Clings

As a member of the Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce you are also a member of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. The OCC is a governing body which advocates on behalf of Chambers who belong to their association. This supports business in Ontario with issues regarding proposed changes in both the Federal and Provincial legislatures on behalf of business.
If you’re interested in receiving a 2011 window/door decal please contact Jessie in the office and we’ll gladly include one with your 2011 membership.


Chamber Happenings:

Reminder for feedback on Chamber E-mails

On Friday November 12th you were sent a e-mail requesting feedback on the format in which these e-mails are sent. A reminder to share your thoughts on how you would like to receive future communications from us.


Upcoming Business Workshops & Seminars

PARO Workshops - November 24

Contact North and PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise have teamed up to offer workshops every Wednesday in October. The sessions are available free of charge and open to all Parry Sound and area residents (both men and women) though Contact North distance education delivery system.

The Contact North Center is located at 60 James Street, suite 201. Please register by e-mailing : buildingbridges@paro.ca.

Developing Your Marketing and Advertising Strategy
November 24, 2010 - 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
with Lisa Vescio, PARO Centre
• Developing a Business Action Plan to reach your goals
• Defining measurable goals
• Prioritizing and setting target dates
• Measuring and evaluating progress

Brainstorming for Marketing
November 24, 2010 - 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.
with Marcia Arpin, All the Daze
• Brainstorming exercises
• Collective energies and shared conversation gets results
• Share your ideas and generate ideas to market your business or yourself


What’s Happening in our community

Business & Employment Standards

Your business & Employment Standards are you following the rules? The Ministry of Labour has put out a excellent workbook for employers on complying with the Employment Standards Act (ESA) This workbook will assist you in human resources items such as Hours of Work, Record Keeping and Payment of Wages.

The workbook can be found at:
http://www.labour.gov.on.ca/english/es/pdf/esworkbook.pdf


What’s Happening With Our Members?

Near North Recreation Open House & Fundraising BBQ

Near North Recreation’s second annual Open House and BBQ will be held on Saturday November 20th. All proceeds raised from the BBQ will be donated to the WPSHC ‘support the Girls” foundation. Food and staff for the BBQ has been donated by Parry Sound Sobey’s.
Visit www.nearnorthrecreation.ca for directions.


North of Muskoka Embroidery

North of Muskoka Embroidery has moved to a new location at 42 James Street, downtown Parry Sound. Their new phone number is (705) 746-5565. Congratulations on your move!


AVIVA Fund - Final Round

The final round of voting for the AVIVA Community Fund has begun, two of our members RISE and Sail Parry Sound are participating in this contest. To learn more and vote for our local service groups visit: www.avivacommunityfund.org


Edward Jones - Top 50 Best Employers Award

Congratulations to Edward Jones for ranking among the Top 50 Best Employers In Canada. Local chamber member Glendon MacGregor and staff are excited and proud about receiving this award as a part of the Edward Jones company.

Tuesday E-mail - October 26, 2010

What Is The Chamber Doing For You?

Upcoming Business After Hours

November 17th - Hidden Bay Leadership Camp

We are currently booking business after hours dates for 2011. If your business is interested in hosting a after hours event please contact Kathy at the Chamber office, kathy@parrysoundchamber.ca or (705) 746-4213.

Information Updates

Chamber staff are currently making calls to update our members business information. This information will be used for the upcoming printing of our business directory as well as to put customers through to your doors be it through our online business directory, telephone, e-mail or drop in requests for information.

The more we know about your business the better we can promote you, if you are now offering new services or have made changes to your business please be sure to keep us informed.

Social Media, don’t be left behind - Free Seminar, Dec. 1st

Brought to you in partnership with Georgian Bay Country Tourism and the Georgian Bay Womens Network we bring you a free seminar, Social Media, don’t be left behind. This exciting seminar will help your business to better navigate the world of Social Media and Online Marketing with a purpose.

Guest Speakers Carl Clift and Jason Fairfield of Oncor Solutions Inc. will bring you up to speed on social media and how it can benefit your business. Guest speakers at today’s Ontario PGA show conference and regular webinar hosts Carl and Jason’s presentation is not to be missed.

Where: The Charles W. Stockey CentreWhen: December 1, 2010
Registration 8:30am
Event Start: 9:00am
Event End: Noon
Cost: Free, RSVP required

To RSVP please e-mail kathy@parrysoundchamber.ca or call the Chamber at (705) 746-4213.

This event is funded in part by Parry Sound Area Community Business and Development Centre in support of economic development in West Parry Sound and by the Business Centre - Nipissing Parry Sound Inc.

Chamber Happenings:

Green Energy Hub:

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce applauds the tremendous efforts of the Chamber of Commerce Brantford Brant as it successfully spearheaded the establishment of what is now
Ontario’s Green Energy Hub.

The communities of Brantford, Brant, Haldimand, Norfolk and the Six Nations of the Grand River are joining together to become Ontario’s Green Energy Hub, an initiative led by the Chamber of Commerce Brantford Brant.

Ontario’s Green Energy Hub will be a regionally shared, specifically targeted, marketing and economic development strategy that will act as the development organization attracting foreign direct investment to the region. The Minister of Energy Brad Duguid, and other colleagues from Queen’s Park, were recently on hand in Brantford to help launch the grand achievement. Acting regionally will allow the entire area to develop a focused approach to business attraction, one that leans on the strengths of the entire partnership.

On behalf of our members a letter from our president, Andrew Ryeland, has been sent congratulating the Chamber of Commerce Brantford Brant and this is certainly an initiative that we’d like to play a roll in with our area municipalities inclusive of REDAC.

Upcoming Business Workshops & Seminars:

Contact North and PARO workshops

Contact North and PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise have teamed up to offer workshops every Wednesday in October. The sessions are available free of charge and open to all Parry Sound and area residents (both men and women) though Contact North distance education delivery system. The Contact North Center is located at 60 James Street, suite 201. Please register by e-mailing : buildingbridges@paro.ca.

It’s no Act! – Aspire to Hire III
November 3, 2010 - 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
with Bernie Quesnelle – Ontario Ministry of Labour, Employment Standards Act. What you need to know to hire employees in your business and understanding the information in the Ontario Employment Standards Act
• Overview of the Act
• How to get started
• Resources available

What’s Happening in our Community?

College of Trades public consultations

We’d like to advise all our trade members that the provincial governments new apprenticeship regulatory body, the College of Trades, is holding public consultations for setting apprenticeship ratios and designating compulsory trades. Those wishing to participate in the Thunder Bay, Sudbury, or London consultations must register by November 8, 2010.

The deadline for written submissions is November 30,2010.
Written submissions can be e-mailed to: CollegeofTradesImplementationOffice@Ontario.ca
For further information please contact Kelly Pritchard, Policy Analyst, at kellypritchard@occ.on.ca or 416-482-5222 ext. 246.

What’s Happening With Our Members?

Stockey Centre Hosts Ontario Contact

Congratulations to the Charles W. Stockey Centre this week as it hosts Ontario Contact. This exciting, engaging celebration is an opportunity for those working in the touring performing arts sector to come together to network, and to share information in a three-day conference featuring contemporary and classical music, dance, theatre, spoken word, and youth orientated programming.

They will be engaging over 500 artists, presenters, workshop leaders, and various government and arts service agencies in showcase performances, workshops, and an arts industry marketplace. This event will provide a huge benefit to our community during the down time of the year for many businesses and will also be returning in October 2011 a huge kudos to the wonderful Performing Arts Centre our community has to offer.

Tuesday E-mail - September 28, 2010

What Is The Chamber Doing For You?


Accessibility Workshop - This Wednesday

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce and the Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce are hosting a workshop to help your business comply with Ontario’s new customer service standards under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act. This seminar is important for ALL Businesses. For more information on the customer service standards and the subjects which will be covered by speaker Louie DiPalma please visit http://www.accessibilityworks.ca/

Wednesday September 29, 2010 at the West Parry Sound District Museum start time 8:30am. Please RSVP to Jessie at the Chamber (705) 746-4213 or jessie@parrysoundchamber.ca


Business After Hours this Wednesday

Join your fellow Chamber members on September 29, 2010 at a business after hours hosted by Georgian Bay Airways and Bear Claw Tours at Georgian Bay Airways location on Bay Street. Come and enjoy coffee and ice cream while touring their great facility. Enter a draw for eight lucky attendees to go on a flight following (weather permitting).

Attendees are asked to please bring a food item for our local food bank. Items in need include: canned meats, children’s lunch items, peanut butter, baby formula, canned veggies etc.

Other upcoming Business After Hours:
October 13th - RBC & The Stockey Centre
November 17th - Hidden Bay Leadership Camp

Please RSVP to info@parrysoundchamber.ca or (705) 746-4213.


Golf Tournament

The Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce “Fall Classic” Golf Tournament is quickly approaching. Join your fellow Chamber members on October 6th as we tee-off for a day of networking and making new connections.

The day’s events include 18 holes of golf, cart, dinner and a $10,000 Hole in One Contest. Sign up your team or as a individual today by contacting the Chamber (705) 746-4213.


Salute to Small Business

Join the Chamber of Commerce, the Business Centre, RBC and the Stockey Centre on October 13, 2010 for a presentation by Rhonda Scarf on Charisma, Credibility and Confidence; the 1-2-3 Plan for Success! Followed by Dawn Desjardins, Royal Bank of Canada Senior Economist, and the outlook for the 2011 Economy.

Where: Charles W. Stockey Centre
When: October 13th from 4:00pm - 7:00pm
Registration beings at 3:30pm
Cost: Free
A light dinner and refreshments will be available.
Registration is required, to reserve your seat, please contact Carly Hughes at: (705) 746-5892 or carly.hughes@vianet.ca
(This is a part of the October Business After Hours Event)


Chamber Happenings:


All Candidates Meeting - Parry Sound:

The Chamber has partnered with the Parry Sound North Star, TV Cogeco and the Moose FM to host the 2010 Parry Sound Municipal All Candidates Meeting. Taking place on September 27th at the Charles W. Stockey Centre the evening will include our local board trustee, mayoral and councillor candidates. Starting at 7:00pm (doors open at 6:30pm)

The event will also be broadcast on TVCogeco Tuesday September 28th.


Upcoming Business Workshops & Seminars:

Contact North and PARO workshops

Contact North and PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise have teamed up to offer workshops every Wednesday in October. The sessions are available free of charge and open to all Parry Sound and area residents (both men and women) though Contact North distance education delivery system.
The Contact North Center is located at 60 James Street, suite 201. Please register by e-mailing : buildingbridges@paro.ca.

Bookkeeping II
October 6, 2010 - 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
with Christine Sikerbol, PARO Centre Essentials for any Business!
• Business types and business bookkeeping
• Developing your business’ chart of accounts
• Cash Basis Accounting
• Single and Double Entry Accounting
• Debits and Credits
• The Accounting Cycle

Face-to-Face: Facebook Basics
October 6, 2010 - 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m.
with Jesse Roberts, Thunder Bay Public Library
Discover the benefits of having a business presence on the “social web”, and learn how easy it is to set up and manage your own page.

Financial Planning for Your Business
October 13, 2010 - 12:00 p.m. to 1:15 p.m.
with Vonnie Cheng, Sunlife Financial
Learn about the importance of planning for the financial success of your business.

What’s Happening With Our Members?

Retirement Activity Fair!!

Are you retired or new to the area and wondering what to do? Join Barb Kerr, Financial Consultant and Certified Financial Planner Professional with Investors Group Financial Services Inc. as they host the 7th Annual Barb Kerr Retirement Activity fair! Tuesday October 5th, 2010 at the Charles W. Stockey Centre, 10am - 2pm. Admission by donation to Hospice West Parry Sound.
For more information contact Barb Kerr at (705) 746-8753.

Tuesday E-mail - September 21, 2010

What Is The Chamber Doing For You?

Accessibility Workshop - September 29th

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce and the Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce are hosting a workshop to help your business comply with Ontario’s new customer service standards under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act.

Join us on Wednesday September 29, 2010 at the West Parry Sound District Museum start time 8:30am to Noon for this important information session by speaker Louie DiPalma, Accessibility Works, Ontario Chamber of Commerce. We as chamber associations are determined to help businesses so that they can better serve the growing population of people with all types of disabilities.

Please RSVP to Jessie at the Chamber by September 24, 2010. (705) 746-4213 or jessie@parrysoundchamber.ca


Upcoming Business After Hours

Join your fellow Chamber members on September 29, 2010 at a business after hours hosted by Georgian Bay Airways and Bear Claw Tours at Georgian Bay Airways location on Bay Street. Come and enjoy coffee and ice cream while touring their great facility. Enter a draw for eight lucky attendees to go on a flight the following day (weather permitting).

Other upcoming Business After Hours:
October 13th - RBC & The Stockey Centre
November 17th - Hidden Bay Leadership Camp
Please RSVP to info@parrysoundchamber.ca or (705) 746-4213.


Golf Tournament

Please note the last blog post outlining our “Fall Classic” Golf Tournament which also recognizes our sponsors to date. Including a $10,000 Hole in One Contest sponsored by Canada Brokerlink. Sign up your team or as a individual today by contacting the Chamber (705) 746-4213.


Parry Sound Municipal Election All Candidates Meeting

Hosted by the Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce, the Parry Sound North Star, TV Cogeco and the Moose FM.
When: Monday, September 27, 2010
Time: 7:00pm (Doors open at 6:30pm)
Place: Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts
Also broadcast on TV Cogeco
Cost: Free
- Have your say and ask your questions during the public question period.
- Hear what the Parry Sound Municipal candidates have to say on the issues that matter to you.
- Hear the Municipal candidates answer tough questions from a panel of select community representatives.
- Hear platforms from the Near North District School Board Board Trustee Candidates.


Chamber Happenings:


Poverty Reduction Committee:

The Chamber has recently joined this committee because as employers you’re aware of the effects of poverty on the workforce. This includes lack of transportation, lack of nutritious food and overall mental distress due to economic circumstances. All of these have a direct impact on the productivity of the worker and society and it’s very important to work with area associations to assist in solving this issue.


REDAC: (Regional Economic Development Advisory Committee)

The Township of Seguin, Municipality of McDougall and the Town of Parry Sound have been working in a partnership over the past 2 years in order to bring sustainable economic growth to our area. The Chamber and other associations belong to REDAC and have/will start to partner with the committee to bring workshops and seminars to the area and to evaluate the housing/emerging developments/communications and work on issues involving all municipalities. We recently attended the REDAC strategic seminar and look forward to assisting
with the implementation of the ideas proposed at the meeting for 2011.


Another wonderful waterfront season comes to a close

The Chamber of Commerce has been contracted since 1987 to operate the waterfront facilities to serve the transient boater’s needs and to act as a tourism information centre for the Parry Sound Area.

For the past 23 years, the operation has served well over 40,000 boaters with approximately 120,000 people on board (not to mention the hundreds of thousands attending the info booth) and financially boasted our local businesses and economy.

With the wonderful weather that was provided for us this season, we had a very busy summer at the waterfront.

Visitor Stats:
Town dock Location: Total # of paying visits: 117, up from 64 in 2009.
Average length of boat: 38.97’
Head count from info centre: approx. 1372

Big Sound Marina: Total # of paying visits: 952 up from 794 in 2009.
Average length: 33.79’

Through the generosity of our members, we received the following items:
• New BBQ from Ritchie Insurance
• Free propane, plus an additional 20lb tank from Canadian Tire (which were filled 5 times this year!).
• Free shuttle service to and from Parry Sound Sobeys
• Bigger, better and more powerful antennae for the wi-fi service donated and installed free of charge from Georgian Bay Software (enabled the boaters to receive the wi-fi from the docks instead of on our deck as in previous years.)
• Donation of computer and improved wireless equipment for the Town Dock information centre from Georgian Bay Software (to replace the computer stolen two summers ago).

Customer Service continues to be our number one priority and strength throughout the season. From their initial interview, to the first day of training and continuing throughout the summer, the staff is told and trained on the importance on going ‘above and beyond’ for the boaters and visitors to the area. We ensure that the staff is familiar with the local attractions, business and events to effectively promote the area. Local brochures, maps and other promotional items were always kept in stock to help achieve this.

We had an amazing and wonderful team this year and can’t say and brag enough about them!


Upcoming Business Workshops & Seminars:


Contact North and PARO workshops

Contact North and PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise have teamed up to offer workshops every Wednesday in September. The sessions are available free of charge and open to all Parry Sound and area residents though Contact North distance education delivery system. The Contact North Center is located at 60 James Street, suite 201. Please register by e-mailing : buildingbridges@paro.ca.

Bookkeeping I
September 29, 2010 - 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Christine Sikerbol, PARO Centre
• 3 Categories of essential business tasks
• Daily recording of transactions
• Cash Receipts (A/R)
• Cash Disbursements (A/P)
• Bank reconciliations

Labour Market Information
September 29, 2010 - 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.
Adrienne Serreao, Service Canada
Job seekers, careers in transitions, or potential employers, this workshop will provide you with valuable resources
• What’s hot and what’s not in the local labour market
• What you can do to prepare
Please register to these seminars by e-mailing: buildingbridges@paro.ca.


Georgian Bay Women’s Network

Georgian Bay Women’s Network is offering a six week course on Simply Accounting - Level One. It will run on Wednesday evenings - for a total of 18 hours. Starting October 13th and running into November.

They will provide the teaching module of Simply, the textbooks, instructor and a copy of the software for each student. The cost to you is only the payment of the textbooks - $50.00, plus a $15.00 donation to the YMCA. Please note space is limited. Contact Susan at the Parry Sound Area Community Business & Development Centre today to sign up, (705) 746-4455 or susan@cbdc.parrysound.on.ca


What’s Happening With Our Members?

RISE Open House

Join RISE (Resource Centre for Independent Living) on September 28, 2010 as they open and celebrate their new location. Meet the staff and volunteers. Light refreshments will be served. 11am to 2pm, 70 Isabella Street Parry Sound. For more information contact RISE at (705) 746-6996.

Tuesday E-mail - September 14, 2010

What Is The Chamber Doing For You?


Upcoming Business After Hours

Join your fellow Chamber members on September 29th at a business after hours hosted by Georgian Bay Airways and Bear Claw Tours at Georgian Bay Airways location on Bay Street. Come and enjoy coffee and ice cream while touring their great facility.

October 13th - RBC & The Stockey Centre
November 17th - Hidden Bay Leadership Camp


Accessibility Workshop - September 29th

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce and the Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a workshop to help Ontario businesses comply with Ontario’s new customer service standards.

Please join us on Wednesday September 29, 2010 at the West Parry Sound District Museum start time 8:30am to Noon for this important information session by speaker Louie DiPalma, Accessibility Works, Ontario Chamber of Commerce. We as chamber associations are determined to help businesses so that they can better serve the growing population of people
with all types of disabilities.

For additional information and to rsvp please contact Jessie at the Chamber 705-746-4213 or jessie@parrysoundchamber.ca


Chamber Happenings:

We feel it’s important for you, our members, to know the involvement that we in the Chamber office and our directors participate in so this will be a section each week to advise and enlighten on the happenings of the Chamber involvement.

This past week has been very busy for us in the office. We’ve been preparing for the upcoming Accessibility workshop, business after hours and our monthly board meeting.


Chamber Business Directory

We’ve also started working on the 2011 “Chamber Business Directory” which will be published and ready for distribution early spring. You’ll be hearing from us over the next couple of months to ensure that the information we have on file for your company is accurate and up to date. Of course there will be advertising opportunities to promote your business in the directory and we’ll be sending this out under separate cover at a later date.


Golf Tournament

Please note the following Blog Post outlining our “Fall Classic” Tournament” which also recognizes our sponsors to date.

Canada Brokerlink has just sponsored a $10,000 hole in one so this is going to be a great tournament.


Fire Truck

Many years ago a 1938 GMC Fire Truck was donated to the Chamber and has been on display at the Old Town Fire Hall. This truck could be used for parades and community events however it does require some minor work. If a member is interested in assisting us with this repair as a sponsor that would be great. For additional information please contact Perry at the Chamber, (705) 746-4213 or perry@parrysoundchamber.ca


Upcoming Business Workshops & Seminars:


Contact North and PARO workshops

Contact North and PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise have teamed up to offer workshops every Wednesday in September. PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise provides programs and services to residents across Northern Ontario who are ready to start, grow or build new opportunities. The sessions are available free of charge and open to all Parry Sound and area residents though Contact North distance education delivery system. The Contact North Center is located at 60 James Street, suite 201. Please register by e-mailing : buildingbridges@paro.ca.

The Good, The Bad... What were you thinking?
September 15, 2010 - 12:15 p.m. – 1:15 p.m.
Brenda McDougall, Suzanne Tighe, PARO Centre
Have you ever read an ad and wondered, “What were they thinking”? Learn how to make the most of your marketing $$.
• Avoid costly bloopers and blunders
• Do it right the first time!

Record Keeping
September 22, 2010 - 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Christine Sikerbol, PARO Centre
What to do with all that paper that flows in and out of a business!
• Filing Mechanics and systems
• Record retention guidelines
• Bank statements, cancelled cheques, accounts payable, accounting chart of accounts, posting invoices and payments.

Debt Freedom
September 22, 2010 - 12:15 p.m. - 1:15 p.m.
Shirley DeWilde- Debt Freedom
Debt Freedom Financial helping to make choices in
• Debt Management
• Revenue Protection
• Expense Control
• Asset Management

Please register to these seminars by e-mailing : buildingbridges@paro.ca.


Georgian Bay Women’s Network

Fall has arrived which means the Georgian Bay Women’s Network is up and providing seminars and workshops again. Starting October 13th and running into November they are offering a six week course on Simply Accounting - Level One It will run on Wednesday evenings - for a total of 18 hours. They will provide the teaching module of Simply, the textbooks, instructor and a copy of the software for each student. You will learn everything you need to know to navigate Simply accounting, create and configure a company, use general ledger features, accounts payable, accounts receivable, historical data, perform transaction inquiries, perform commonly used transactions, bank transactions, periodic processing, forms, reports, and management tools.

The cost to you is only the payment of the textbooks - $50.00, plus a $15.00 donation to the YMCA. Please note space is limited. Contact Susan at the Parry Sound Area Community Business & Development Centre today to sign up, (705) 746-4455 or susan@cbdc.parrysound.on.ca


The Synergy Project Management & Leadership Skills for First Time Supervisors & Managers Workshop
An important update from the Synergy Project...
There are only TEN spots left for the Management and Leadership Skills for First Time Supervisors and Managers workshop!
Register now to reserve your spot. Presented by: National Seminars Group. September 21 & 22 from 9am-4pm, at the West Parry Sound District Museum.

To register contact Alyssa Koenderink, Synergy Project Coordinator, 746-9330 or email akoenderink@clps.ca


What’s Happening In Our Community?


Canadian Youth Business Foundation seeks Mentors

The Canadian Youth Business Foundation is looking for entrepreneurs and professionals with strong business acumen, who possess strong communication skills, are great listeners and can advise as necessary. Answer the call to mentor and Inspire, Learn, Build and Grow young
entrepreneurs in your community.

Further Details can be found on their website:
- www.cybf.ca
- http://www.cybf.ca/assets/pdf/Become_a_Mentor_Sheet.pdf
For additional information please contact Janice Weir, CHRP jweir@cybf.ca or 1-866-646-2922 x 2105

Tuesday E-mail - September 7, 2010

What Is The Chamber Doing For You?


Business After Hours - September 29

Join your fellow Chamber members on September 29th at a business after hours hosted by Georgian Bay Airways and Bear Claw Tours at Georgian Bay Airways location on Bay Street. Come and enjoy coffee and ice cream while touring their great facility.


Golf Tournament “Fall Classic”

Our “Fall Classic” Tournament is quickly selling out so please contact the Chamber office to reserve your spot. The event will be held on Wednesday October 6 at the Parry Sound Golf and Country Club, $125.00 per person plus hst, inclusive of golf cart, shotgun start at 11am, lunch optional, silent auction and dinner at 5pm with awards presentations, a great day away from the office and a chance to mix and mingle with fellow business operators.


Accessibility Workshop Hosted by the OCC and the PSACOC

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce and the Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a workshop to help Ontario businesses comply with Ontario’s new customer service standards. Please join us on Wednesday September 29, 2010 at the West Parry Sound District Museum start time 8:30am to Noon for this important information session by speaker Louie DiPalma, Accessibility Works, Ontario Chamber of Commerce.

We as chamber associations are determined to help businesses so that they can better serve the growing population of people with all types of disabilities.

For additional information and to rsvp please contact Jessie at the Chamber 705-746-4213 or jessie@parrysoundchamber.ca


Pension Reform Announcement

In case you are not aware, the Ontario Government has just announced proposed reforms to Ontario’s pension system. The government is proposing to tighten the funding rules and to increase Pension Benefits Guarantee Funds (PBGF). The Chamber as well as the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) believes that this approach will have significant consequences for businesses, by increasing costs of companies that our sponsoring pension plans.

The OCC is currently striking a Task Force to review the proposed changes, and to develop concrete recommendations as part of our response to the government’s intentions.

For more information on this news release please visit http://www.news.ontario.ca/ . We will ensure that as information comes our way we will keep you posted.


Chamber Happenings:

We feel it’s important for you, our members, to know the involvement that we in the Chamber office and our directors participate in so this will be a new section each week to advise and enlighten on the happenings of the Chamber involvement. This past week has been very busy for us in the office. We’ve been preparing for the golf tournament, the upcoming workshops and seminars with association partners and the closure of the waterfront operation.


Chamber Business Directory

We’ve also started working on the 2011 “Chamber Business Directory” which will be published and ready for distribution early spring. You’ll be hearing from us over the next couple of months to ensure that the information we have on file for your company is accurate and up to date. Of course there will be advertising opportunities to promote your business in the directory and we’ll be sending this out under separate cover at a later date.


Fire Truck

Many years ago a 1938 GMC Fire Truck was donated to the Chamber and has been on display at the Old Town Fire Hall. This truck could be used for parades and community events however it does require some minor work. If a member is interested in assisting us with this repair as a sponsor that would be great. For additional information please contact Perry at the Chamber, (705) 746-4213 or perry@parrysoundchamber.ca


Upcoming Business Workshops & Seminars:


Contact North and PARO workshops

Contact North and PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise have teamed up to offer workshops every Wednesday in September. PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise provides programs and services to residents across Northern Ontario who are ready to start, grow or build new opportunities. The sessions are available free of charge and open to all Parry Sound and area residents though Contact North distance education delivery system. The Contact North Center is located at 60 James Street, suite 201. Please register by e-mailing : buildingbridges@paro.ca.

Business Expenses & Budgeting

September 8, 2010 - 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Barbara Gauthier, PARO Centre
Business Expenses and Budgeting leave you confused? We will help you make sense of it all ...
• Variable vs. Fixed Expenses
• What is your reliable income?
• How to budget for your business

“Getting the Money”
September 8, 2010 - 12:15 p.m. to 1:15 p.m.
Pauline Shesnicky, Thunder Bay Ventures
• How to get funding
• What steps are involved
• How can this work for you


District of Parry Sound VCARS Seminar

Parry Sound VCARS will be hosting a seminar regarding Documentation, Confidentiality, Disclosure and Access Policy presented by Robert M Solomon at Kellerman’s Resort on September 13, 2010, 5-8pm and cost per person will be $40.00 inclusive of dinner.

Please register before September 3rd and for more information and to reserve your ticket please contact VCARS at (705) 746-0508.


The Synergy Project Seminars:

Management & Leadership Skills for First Time Supervisors & Managers
Presented by: National Seminars Group. September 21 & 22 from 9am-4pm, at the West Parry Sound District Museum.

To register contact Alyssa Koenderink, Synergy Project Coordinator, 746-9330 or email akoenderink@clps.ca

Positive and Productive Meetings

With Julie Malette, HSA Canada. September 30 from 9am-4pm, at the Log Cabin Inn. To register contact Alyssa Koenderink, Synergy Project Coordinator, 746-9330 or email akoenderink@clps.ca


What’s Happening In Our Community?

Canadian Youth Business Foundation seeks Mentors The Canadian Youth Business Foundation is looking for entrepreneurs and professionals with strong business acumen, who possess strong communication skills, are great listeners and can advise as necessary. Answer the call to mentor and Inspire, Learn, Build and Grow young entrepreneurs in your community.

Further Details can be found on their website:
- www.cybf.ca
- http://www.cybf.ca/assets/pdf/Become_a_Mentor_Sheet.pdf

For additional information please contact Janice Weir, CHRP jweir@cybf.ca or 1-866-646-2922 x 2105


What’s Happening With Our Members?


Members featured on TripAdvisor

In a recent e-mail blast from TripAdvisor about places to stay and things to see in Parry Sound many Chamber Members were featured.

Making the top five in the following categories were:

Featured B&B or Inn
- 40 Bay Street Bed & Breakfast

Hotels:
- Comfort Inn
- Kellerman’s Resort
- Quality Inn & Conference Centre
- Microtel Inn & Suites

Things You Shouldn’t Miss:
- The Ridge at Manitou
- The M.V. Chippewa III

Most Popular Restaurants:
- Kellerman’s Resort
- Log Cabin Inn
- Trapper’s Choice Restaurant

Tuesday E-mail - August 31, 2010

What Is The Chamber Doing For You?


Golf Tournament “Fall Classic”

Our “Fall Classic” Tournament is quickly selling out so please contact the Chamber office to reserve your spot. The event will be held on Wednesday October 6 at the Parry Sound Golf and Country Club, $125.00 per person plus hst, inclusive of golf cart, shotgun start at 11am, lunch optional, silent auction and dinner at 5pm with awards presentations, a great day away from the office and a chance to mix and mingle with fellow business operators.


Office Rental Space

The Chamber has a rental office for rent located in the CN station. This office space has a separate office area, separate entrance and would be ideal for a professional service. If you’re interested in more information please contact Perry at the Chamber.


Red Tape Principles: Bill 68-Open for Business Act Submission

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce as well as the Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce are seeking your help understanding how businesses feel about red tape in the province. A group of Chambers in Ontario as well as corporations have formed a task force to discuss unresolved issues with red tape in the province.

We’re opening up discussion for our members in order to ensure that all businesses, small and large, Northern and Southern have an opportunity to have your views heard.

Please Click Here to share your feedback.


Accessibility Workshop Hosted by the OCC and the PSACOC

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce and the Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a workshop to help Ontario businesses comply with Ontario’s new customer service standards.

Please join us on Wednesday September 29, 2010 at the West Parry Sound District Museum start time 8:30am to Noon for this important information session by speaker Louie DiPalma, Accessibility Works, Ontario Chamber of Commerce. We as chamber associations are determined to help businesses so that they can better serve the growing population of people with all types of disabilities.

For additional information and to rsvp please contact Jessie at the Chamber 705-746-4213 or jessie@parrysoundchamber.ca


Chamber Happenings:

We feel it’s important for you, our members, to know the involvement that we in the Chamber office and our directors participate in so this will be a new section each week to advise and enlighten on the happenings of the Chamber involvement.

Chamber Meetings:
The Chamber managers of Huntsville, Bracebridge, Gravenhurst, Lake of Bays, Muskoka Lakes as well as our chamber meet every 5 weeks to discuss chamber items. This is a great networking event for us as we share ideas on how to promote our members, new business seminars and workshops and business in general. We’ll be sharing information with our members about upcoming seminars held in Parry Sound/Muskoka and I’ll be advising you through this publication in case you wish to attend.

Probus Origination:
Andrew Ryeland, President of the Chamber and myself were invited to speak with this group of retired professionals to provide the basic principals of a Chamber of Commerce and to provide information as to what our chamber is currently working on. We’d like to thank them for the invitation and we certainly enjoyed this opportunity.

Shawanaga: Youth Fair:
I attended this great opportunity for the youth of Shawanaga First Nations to expand their opportunities with business members and community associations of the area during the trade show and workshops.

Canadore College:
I was pleased to attend the third annual Canadore College Convocation held at the Parry Sound High School. Congrats to all the grads and let’s look forward to having this ceremony take place at the new college in 2011.

24 Hour Members TV:
I met with an individual who has come up with a very interesting marketing and promotional item geared toward the tourism and retail sectors. This would provide an opportunity for businesses to buy into a 24 hour television station that would also be able to be received through your blackberry and gps units. More information on this exciting new opportunity to follow.

Rosseau Road Power Sports & Marine Ltd.:
The staff and I attended this After Five event with hosts Bill and Jennifer Parks and family at their new location on Blackstone Crane Lake Road. We’d like to extend a warm thanks for their hospitality and to the members in attendance.

Canadore College:
The Chamber is involved with their advisory committee and I attended a meeting last week and it’s great to see the progress of the new campus as well as the proposed plans on courses that will be offered.


Upcoming Business Workshops & Seminars:


Business Planning Seminars – REDAC

Are you ready to pitch to the Parry Sound Dragon’s this fall? Are you looking to improve your overall business knowledge or brush up on some specific skills? Don’t miss the following seminars geared to improving your business savvy.

September 1 - Presentation Skills
As presented by Local Entrepreneurs, Keith Saulnier of Georgian Bay Airways and Andrew Ryeland of Bear Claw Tours.
Contact Area Economic Development Coordinator, Kirsten LeDrew at kledrew@townofparrysound.com or 705-746-2101 ext. 39 for more information or to RSVP.

September 15 - Presentation Rehearsals
Dragons Den Applicants will have the opportunity to perform a mock presentation and gain valuable feedback on their presentations from a panel of business-minded individuals. Please contact Stephanie at The Business Centre Nipissing Parry Sound at 746-5892 to book a time.


District of Parry Sound VCARS Seminar

Parry Sound VCARS will be hosting a seminar regarding Documentation, Confidentiality, Disclosure and Access Policy presented by Robert M Solomon at Kellerman’s Resort on September 13, 2010, 5-8pm and cost per person will be $40.00 inclusive of dinner. Please register before September 3rd and for more information and to reserve your ticket please contact VCARS at (705) 746-0508.


The Synergy Project Presents Management & Leadership Skills

Management & Leadership Skills for First Time Supervisors and Managers presented by: National Seminars Group. The seminar will take place at the West Parry Sound District Museum and runs from 9-4pm on September 21st and 22nd with registration beginning at 8:30am.

Please register by September 10th and for more information on this highly interactive workshop contact Alyssa Koenderink, Synergy Project Coordinator, 746-9330 or email akoenderink@clps.ca


What’s Happening In Our Community?


Pension Reform Announcement

In case you are not aware, the Ontario Government has just announced proposed reforms to Ontario’s pension system. The government is proposing to tighten the funding rules and to increase Pension Benefits Guarantee Funds (PBGF).

The Chamber as well as the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) believes that this approach will have significant consequences for businesses, by increasing costs of companies that our sponsoring pension plans.

The OCC is currently striking a Task Force to review the proposed changes, and to develop concrete recommendations as part of our response to the government’s intentions. For more information on this news release please visit www.news.ontario.ca. We will ensure that as information comes our way we will keep you posted.


Have a great week,
Perry

Tuesday E-mail - July 13, 2010

What Is The Chamber Doing For You?


Business After Hours - Rocky Crest Tomorrow

Join your fellow Chamber members at Delta Rocky Crest on Hamer Bay Road this Wednesday, July 14 from 5:00 - 6:00 pm. Come out and tour their magnificent property. Those in ttendance will be served a offering from their kitchen and can pick up a dining coupon valued at $25.

Upcoming BAH Networking Events:
• Rosseau Road Power Sports and Marine, August 25, 5 pm to 6 pm
• Georgian Bay Airways, September 29, 5 pm to 6 pm

Please RSVP to info@parrysoundchamber.ca or call 746-4213 to confirm your attendance for any Business After Hours. We look forward to seeing you there!


What’s Happening In Our Community?


Modernization Regulatory of Fruit & Vegetable, Honey & Maple Products

Businesses involving agricultural producers, as well as food and grocery wholesalers and retailers may wish to note the provincial government’s proposed regulatory amendments affecting food safety, labeling, and declaration standards for fruit and vegetables, honey, and maple products.

The government is currently accepting feedback on these proposals, which are publically available on the provincial Regulatory Registry. If you are interested in obtaining further
information or in submitting comments, please refer to the following links:
Modernization of Regulation 378 – Fruit and Vegetables
Modernization of Regulation 384 – Honey
Modernization of Regulation 386 – Maple


An Evening with the Consuls General

Inspired by our popular Evening with the Deputy Ministers, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce introduces An Evening with the Consuls General. Exploring new export markets and international partnership opportunities is essential for business growth in today’s integrated global economy. We would like to help you put your company or community in the forefront as Canada seeks new free trade arrangements, and as markets open in a global economic recovery. Join us as we gather together the Consuls General from our top import/export markets in an intimate evening of conversation and networking.

Beginning with hosted round table discussions and ending with a moderated Q&A, the evening will give you a unique opportunity to exchange opinions and gain insight about trade and investment opportunities around the world. Each table will be hosted by a Consul General; following dinner all Consuls General in attendance will move to the stage for the moderated Q&A. Don’t miss this opportunity to meet the Consular Corps and establish connections that may help you bridge the distance to the world’s key export destinations.

Date: Wednesday October 20th, 2010
Location: One King West, The Grand Banking Hall.
1 King Street West, Toronto, ON, M5H 1A1
Tickets: $165 plus HST (OCC Member rate)
$185 plus HST (Non-Member rate)
Dress Code: Business Attire

Agenda
5:00pm: Cocktail Reception
6:30pm: Dinner & Consul General Roundtable Discussions
8:00pm: Moderated Question & Answer Period with all Consuls General
9:00pm: Closing Remarks

Registration:
Invitations have been mailed the week of June 14th, 2010. If you wish to register, you can also do so by downloading the Reply Card and faxing it to 416-482-5879. Registration fees will be refunded if a refund request is received by Friday October 8th, 2010.
If you require further information on this event, please email miabettio@occ.on.ca.


Conference Board of Canada Survey on Innovation and College Research

Colleges Ontario has asked The Conference Board of Canada to investigate the contribution that Ontario colleges make to innovation and economic performance when they work with Ontario businesses. As part of the project, the Conference Board is asking businesses for their views on innovation and their awareness of and participation in Ontario colleges’ applied research activities.

The Conference Board has identified the members of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce as an important source of insights about innovation and research in Ontario and therefore members of the Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce are invited to complete the brief survey.
The survey should take no more than 10 minutes to complete.

To ensure your anonymity, your responses to this survey will be combined with those of other respondents, and results will be reported in the aggregate only – responses will not be attributable to a specific organization or individual. The results of the survey will be presented in a report scheduled for release in Fall 2010. The report will include recommendations to governments and colleges about how to build on and improve colleges’ applied R&D capacity and
their contribution to innovation performance in Ontario.

To access the online survey, please Click Here

The survey will be available until July 31, 2010.
The Conference Board of Canada and Colleges Ontario appreciate your participation.


What Are Our Members Doing?


Near North Recreation Ltd.

Congratulations to July Benjamin G. Sansal who has been accepted among the ranks of leading professionals with Stanford Who’s Who as a result of his sensational work in the Sports and Recreation Industry. As President of Near North Recreation Ltd. since 2002, Benjamin has consistently demonstrated the dedication and diligence necessary to be successful in the business world.

Near North Recreation Ltd. is a company which provides sales, service, storage, parts, accessories, rentals and repairs of marine and a variety of recreational vehicles. Among the vehicles they carry are Arctic Cat ATV’s, UTV’s and snow mobiles, Arcticwear, Triton trailers, Shorland’r trailers, Connect-A-Dock, Rave towables and water trampolines, Hyperlite wakeboards and bindings, ITP tires and rims, and Thor sportswear.

Stanford Who’s Who empowers executives, professionals and entrepreneurs around the world through their mission to recognize successful individuals in multiple industries by providing a forum for networking, consulting, exposure and credibility to broadening one’s future success.

Tuesday E-mail - May 25, 2010

What Is The Chamber Doing For You?

Business After Hours (BAH)

Thank you to The Ridge at Manitou, our gracious May BAH host. On Wednesday, May 19th, many business owners and operators gathered to network, tour The Ridge facilities, enjoy beverages and snacks, and unwind for a few minutes on the patio thanks to some fantastic weather!

MP Tony Clement dropped in and informed the crowd about several initiatives that have been recently announced, such as funding for the Festival of the Sound in the amount of $240,000 through the Canada Arts Presentation Fund of the Department of Canadian Heritage.

The strength of the Chamber Network can be tangibly felt at events such as the Business After Hours gatherings and we encourage all of our members to join in on these excellent mixers.

Upcoming BAH Dates:
• Big Sound Marina, June 25, 5 pm to 6 pm
• Delta Rocky Crest Resort, July 14, 5 pm to 6 pm
• Rosseau Road Power Sports and Marine, August 25, 5 pm to 6 pm
Please RSVP to info@parrysoundchamber.ca or call 746-4213 to confirm your attendance for any Business After Hours. We look forward to seeing you there!

Business on the Bay

Join the Chamber of Commerce, Georgian Bay Country and the Georgian Bay Women’s Network for the Annual BUSINESS ON THE BAY networking cruise. This year’s event will be held Wednesday, June 16 from 5-6 pm onboard the Island Queen. This free 1 hour networking get together leaves the Town Dock in Parry Sound promptly at 5 pm, so don’t be left behind!

The cruise offers the opportunity for area businesses and their front line staff to get to know each other, share ideas and information about the upcoming summer season and to learn more about what others in the area have on the go. Get to know what’s happening with your fellow businesses and wow customers this summer with your knowledge of the area.

Special thanks to the Island Queen for their generous support of this annual networking program. Please RSVP to Anna Marie Harris at 705-378-5105 or annamarie@gbcountry.com to confirm your participation.

What’s Happening In Our Community?

Parry Sound Area Dragon’s Den Information Session

In preparation for this fall’s Dragon’s Den Event for local innovators, the Regional Economic Development Advisory Committee (REDAC) and partners will be hosting an information session on June 24, 2010 at 6:30 pm at the Rosseau Memorial Community Hall, 2 Victoria Street in the
Village of Rosseau.

This session will allow entrepreneurs to gain an initial idea of what to expect when applying to present to the Parry Sound Area Dragons. The Parry Sound Area Dragon’s Den will entertain applications from anyone who has a business or expansion idea that needs private capital investment of $10,000 or more. Everyone is welcome, whether you already have a business or just a brilliant idea!

The Parry Sound Area Dragon’s Den will be held on Friday October 15, 2010 at the Charles W. Stockey Centre. For more information or to RSVP for the information session (by June 20th) please contact Kirsten LeDrew at kledrew@townofparrysound.com or 705-746-2101 ext. 39.

The Dragon’s Den event is funded in part by the Parry Sound Area Community Business and Development Centre in support of economic development in West Parry Sound.

‘Glow and Grow’ with PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise

The following workshops are being offered in June by Paro Centre for Women’s Enterprise. The sessions are available free of charge to Parry Sound Area residents by using Contact North’s distance education delivery system. The Contact North Center is located at 60 James Street, suite 201. Please register by emailing buildingbridges@paro.ca by May 31st and remember to indicate which Contact North location you wish to attend through.

Wednesday, June 2nd, 11:00 – Noon
ACTION PLANNING
Christine Sikerbol, PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise.
Do you know how to develop an action plan and reach your goals?
We will show you how to:
• Develop action plans to clearly define measurable goals
• Prioritize and set target dates
• Measure and Evaluate one’s progress!

Wednesday, June 2nd, 12:15 – 1:15 p.m.
VALUES BASED LEADERSHIP
Stacia Kean & Suzanne Tighe, PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise. When you think about change, what is your vision for a better future? This is the first in a series of workshops that PARO will offer throughout 2010. Come discover what your true values are!

Wednesday, June 9th, Noon (2hrs)
INDUSTRY AND TARGET MARKET RESEARCH
Christine Sikerbol & Thunder Bay Public Library, PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise. Looking to find resources to complete research for your Business Plan?
• Where to find resources and information to conduct industry research
• Online research
• Canadian business information through trade publications and news media
• InfoTrac small business eCollection
• Stats Canada

Wednesday, June 16th, 12:15 – 1:15 p.m.
CONTRACTS – HOW DO THEY WORK?
Bonnie King, King Konsulting. Contracts do not have to be complicated! Bonnie will explain step by step how to navigate the world of contracts.

Wednesday, June 16th, 10:00 – Noon (2hrs)
PRICING STRATEGIES FOR YOUR BUSINESS
Christine Sikerbol, PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise We will teach you the following:
• Importance of pricing and factors overlooked when developing a pricing strategy for your business
• Quality, expertise and image of your business
• Intangible factors and consumer perception and value of Goods and Services
• Establishing price ranges to cover costs, break-even analysis

Wednesday, June 16th, 12:15 – 1:15 p.m.
AUTHENTIC LEADERSHIP
Stacia Kean & Suzanne Tighe, PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise. When you think about change, what is your vision for a better future? This is the second in a series of workshops that PARO will offer throughout 2010. Discover your authentic self!

Wednesday, June 23rd, 10:00 – Noon (2hrs)
DEVELOPING YOUR ADVERTISING AND MARKETING STRATEGY
Christine Sikerbol, PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise.
• Marketing and advertising essentials for any business
• Developing your strategy for effective exposure

Wednesday, June 23rd, 12:15 – 1:15 p.m.
ASPIRE TO HIRE
Brenda McDougall, PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise
Are you overwhelmed? Did you know that one reason women’s businesses have lower average sales than male entrepreneurs is because women are more reluctant to hire.
Did you know that hiring a skilled person, whether an individual or another business, can bring you more profits? At this workshop, you learn how you can better “Glow & Grow” and how you can shine by hiring great employees.

Wednesday, June 30th, 11:00 – Noon
BUSINESS EXPENSES AND BUDGETING
Barbara Gauthier, PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise
Business Expenses and Budgeting leave you confused?
We will help you make sense of it all …
• Variable vs. Fixed Expenses
• What is your reliable income?
• How to budget for your business

Wednesday, June 30th, 12:15 – 1:15 p.m.
BEST FOOT FORWARD
Brenda McDougall, PARO Centre for Women’s Enterprise
How much thought and time do you give to presentation? Whether it’s how you appear to your customers or how you present yourself for a job, whether in writing or in person…
This workshop is for you!

The Power of Social Media for Small Business

Discover the true power behind social media and see how it can benefit your business with minimal cost thanks to a free webinar offered by TD Canada Trust on June 3, 2010.
This Webinar Workshop will show you:
• What social media is and how to use these tools to market your business
• Why social media sites are generating buzz and how you can profit from it
• That you don’t need to be tech-savvy to build an online presence and make it known
• Real examples of small businesses using social media as a cost-effective marketing tool

Host: Irene Law, Senior Manager Business Banking, TD Bank Financial Group
Guest Speakers:
• Erin Bury, Community Manager, Sprouter
• Amber MacArthur, New Media Journalist & Co-Founder, MGI Media
• Lyn Wilson, Online Marketing Consultant, 6s Marketing

Join the FREE Webinar Workshop on Thursday, June 3, 2010 at 12 pm ET, to learn how to boost your marketing efforts by leveraging the power of social media.
Click here to register

Ride for Refuge

On June 5, Parry Sound will be the venue for the local Ride for Refuge. This participatory biking event helps support refugeeserving organizations with programs including relief and humanitarian aid, settlement, housing, immigration advice, education and counseling.
For information on the Parry Sound RIDE, please visit http://www.rideforrefuge.org/home.php?c=1&l=12

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. The survey should only take about 5 minutes and is located at the following link:
http://surveys.occ.on.ca/ls/index.php?sid=83375&lang=en

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.

What Are Our Members Doing?

Canadore College Appoints New President

The Board of Governors of Canadore College has recently announced the appointment of George Burton as President and CEO. Mr. Burton is currently Vice President, Enrolment Management and Student Services, at Loyalist College. He is a graduate of the Recreation Leadership program at Canadore College and was a Canadore staff member working in several leadership roles in the office of the Registrar for seven years beginning in 1985.

Mr. Burton will assume his post beginning July 15, 2010. In the interim he will be visiting the College and area on several occasions. Please help us welcome him, and his family, to that area, and congratulations to the Canadore team for bringing such a talented member of the alumni back home.