KEDCO Update: Week Ending October 21, 2011

Published on: 2011/10/24 - in Releases

HIGHLIGHTS OF RECENT PROGRESS & ACTIVITIES

Business Development

Fawn Bradfield, Real Estate and Land Development presented her findings on the implementation of a Business Improvement Area (BIA) operating model at the Williamsville Revitalization Study public meeting held at the Memorial Centre on October 17.

The session was well attended with 25-30 community members and business owners and positive feedback was received. The Williamsville Neighborhood Association will use the information gathered to further explore the potential for a BIA.

Jennifer Baker, Business Development Project Manager attended the Exporting to the United States Seminar on October 19 at the Donald Gordon Centre. KEDCO, in partnership with the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (MEDT) as well as OCRI Global Marketing sponsored this event which was targeted towards Ontario-based manufacturing, distributing and technology companies. Over 20 local companies interested in expanding their business interests across the border attended the session.

The Entrepreneurship Centre at KEDCO is recognizing October as Small Business Month by participating in a variety of activities to celebrate entrepreneurship and small business owners.  Entrepreneurship Centre staff attended the Frontenac Community Futures Development Corporation’s  (CFDCs) Business Showcase in Sydenham on October 19 and promoted programs and services available to regional business owners through KEDCO.

Tourism Kingston

On October 22, Rob Carnegie, Director of Tourism Marketing and Development, along with Mayor Gerretsen, Police Chief Stephen Tanner, Deputy Fire Chief Neville Murphy and Base Commander Col. Stephen Cadden will travel to St. Cloud, Minnesota for the final presentation for Kingston to host the 2016 Can-Am Police-Fire Games. The Selection Committee is scheduled to announce their decision on October 24. The Can-Am Police-Fire games are organized to promote physical fitness and camaraderie among law enforcement, fire, emergency and protective services personnel.

Tourism Kingston is holding its annual Planning Retreat on October 27.  This year, a group of industry advisors made up of hoteliers, retailers, restaurateurs and attraction managers will join the Tourism Kingston team to review 2011 activities; provide feedback from both a strategic and front-line perspective; and offer direction on proposed plans for 2012.

Chris Whyman, Visitor Services Manager is on the City of Kingston Organizing Committee for the 25th Anniversary Rick Hansen Medal Relay which comes to Kingston on Sunday, October 30.  Kingston’s celebration runs from 2pm – 5pm where Final Medal-Bearer Wess Garrod will be met by Rick Hansen himself.  The event is designed to promote accessible, active and sustainable communities.