It is my pleasure to present the July edition of The Voice of Tourism.
In October 2010, TIANS will host Atlantic Canada Showcase (ACS) in Halifax. This event is hosted every two years and rotates between the Atlantic Provinces. This is a buyer-seated trade show that brings in buyers from North America, United Kingdom and Germany to encourage the purchase of Atlantic Canada tourism product. In doing research with the buyers, they have indicated a strong desire to meet with operators who have experiential product to sell. TIANS encourages operators to consider participation in this event – maybe team up with a group of operators and put a market ready product together. With changing booking patterns and buying patterns of our customers, this may be a new opportunity for you to consider as part of your marketing budget. For details on the event go to www.atlanticcanadashowcase.com
Although it is early in the peak season, indicators and feedback from industry identify that it will be a challenging year in some regions and communities throughout the province. Operators need to continually seek new ways of doing business and ensure they are using technology to maximize exposure to potential customers. TIANS is pleased to continue to be a part of the Atlantic Tourism Technology Initiative and have available resources for operators to help them ensure they are using their websites and online presence to grow their customer base. For support and information please contact Tracey Beattie, TIANS Technology Coordinator at tracey@tourism.ca and 902.423.4480.
In late May TIANS hosted the first meeting of the Industry Council for 2010. The Industry Council meets twice a year and this is one forum used by TIANS to gather information from all industry sectors on current issues and opportunities. This information, along with the industry survey and additional outreach, assist the TIANS Board to develop its annual advocacy work plan. The attached link indicates the priorities identified by industry from the latest survey, please click here.
TIANS Membership renewals have been sent out. Thank you to the TIANS members who have renewed their membership with the association - your support is important in enabling TIANS to advocate for changes that will lead to progressive tourism growth.
Thank you for your continued support - If I can be of assistance, please contact me at dgf@tourism.ca or call 902.496.7479
Regards,
Darlene Grant Fiander,
President
MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN:
Dear Members,
Thank you to those TIANS Members who were able to join us for the Annual General Meeting in May. I am honored to assume the role as Chairman of the TIANS Board of Directors. Your new Board of Directors is committed to advancing the important issues that will improve the business environment for tourism. With four new Board Members bringing a diverse background and perspective, we are well positioned to represent your interests in advancing the tourism agenda. Please click here to view the 2010/2011 TIANS Board of Directors.
As we embark on an important part of the operating year, the industry continues to face many challenges and much change in the way tourism business is conducted. In a recent survey of the members, a majority reported significant changes to their client base and noted booking patterns continue to be spontaneous with customer expectations for service and high quality. A strong desire for experiential tourism requires us to ensure we have the product to deliver throughout all regions of the province. 43% of the members indicated confidence that business levels would be comparable to 2009, while 30% are anticipating an increase in business activity, with 23% reporting lower business levels than 2009.
As tourism operators we need to continually adapt to the changing market conditions and seek innovative and creative ways to build new business into the province and ultimately into our businesses.
I look forward to working with the staff of your Association, as we strive to see resolution on many issues including access; transportation; quality & infrastructure; and addressing policies that are impeding solid tourism growth.
Thank you for your continued support of your provincial Association. I look forward to meeting many of you over the coming months.
Sincerely,
Danny Bartlett
Chairman
ADVOCACY UPDATE:
NATIONAL ADVOCACY
TIAC’s Position on Restructuring at the Canadian Tourism Commission
On Friday, July 16, the Canadian Tourism Commission announced a long-expected shift in direction for the organization in order to better serve Canada’s tourism sector. This organization restructuring comes as a result of cuts to the core budget of the CTC, as well as the sun setting of a number of project-based funding initiatives. To view the media release, please click here.
FCTIP Letter and Advocacy Campaign
In support of changes to Foreign Convention and Tour Incentive Program, TIANS sent a letter to the federal Minister of Finance James Flaherty lending strong support for proposed modifications to the program. TIANS also encouraged industry groups to advocate for changes that would expand eligibility to individuals and reduce administrative burden that has been placed on tour operators. To view the letter, please click here.
Tourism Awareness Week: June 7th – 13th
In June TIANS and TIAC celebrated Tourism Week with media coverage highlighting the importance of tourism to the provincial and national economies.
TIANS supported a radio campaign throughout Nova Scotia to build awareness of tourism value and importance. To hear the radio clips please click here. Radio One Radio Two. Tourism Week is a national celebration that highlights the economic impact and social benefits of Canada’s tourism sector among the media, general public and governments at all levels.
In support of Tourism Awareness Week and a cleaner environment, the staff of TIANS supported the Adopt-A-Highway campaign by collecting litter along Route 333 near the entrance to Peggy’s Cove. A TIANS crew of 12 staff collected 24 bags of litter from both sides of the highway extending two kilometres to the east and west of the entrance to Peggy’s Cove, and including the Swiss Air Memorial Site. To find out more about adopting a litter clean up site, please contact the Adopt-A-Highway Office at 902-893-2757.
QUALITY - IMPROVING THE NOVA SCOTIA PRODUCT
The Nova Scotia Approved – Quality First program is continuing for 2010 with expanded access for operators. As a result of this iniative between government and industry all accommodations marketed by the province are meeting benchamarks of quality. This year the program will be made available to all licensed accommodations at no cost. Please view the benchmarks of standards that you need to meet. Sign up today - Please visit www.nsapproved.ca
On-Line Visitor Satisfaction Program
This Atlantic Initiative is continuing in its 3rd year and is focused toward small to medium sized accommodation and campground operators in Atlantic Canada. Operators pay a modest participation fee (Between $50.00 and $100.00). Unique to this program is the amount of information available to each operator on the reporting site on “how you are doing” and as well, “how you are doing compared to other operators in your region, province and throughout Atlantic Canada”. There are 100 spots available to operators from Nova Scotia for the period ending March 31, 2011. Don’t miss your opportunity to gather valuable feedback and scoring information from your guests. Register now for the On-Line Visitors Satisfaction Program 2010! Download your Nova Scotia Participation Form at www.visitorsatisfactionatlantic.ca or contact: Jennifer Falkenham at 902.496.7473 jennifer@tourism.ca Or John Cudmore, Project Coordinator,Visitor Satisfaction Program at 902 370-8680 or jcudmore@avsp.ca
FINANCIAL ADVOCACY
Review Underway for the Seasonal Tourist Business Designation Program
TIANS has been asked to provide input into this program; a new review is underway by Service Nov Scotia and Municipal Relations of the Seasonal Tourist Business Designation program. According to the information TIANS has received, there has been a municipal request that this benefit be made optional.
TIANS will be sending out a short survey in the coming days to get your perspective on this program.
The Seasonal Tourist Business Designation is a property tax benefit that businesses can apply for on an annual basis. The tax rate for designated businesses is 75 per cent of the commercial property tax rate. A seasonal tourist business is currently defined as: “a business that is open during some part of the taxation year but that is closed for at least four months in the taxation year and is: a restaurant, a roofed accommodation, or a camping establishment. Seasonal tourist businesses must also be owner operated.” For more information concerning the program, please click here.
TIANS looks forward to getting your perspective on this program and will be submitting an industry position as a result of the feedback received. Watch for the Survey!
Stop Sticking it to Us Coalition
Thank you to TIANS members who continue to provide feedback on the proposed Code of Conduct for the Credit and Debit Card Industry in Canada. As a result of feedback from across the Country, the federal government announced that they will be looking at possible changes to the mandate of the Financial Consumer Agency of Canada (FCAC). The government proposes to amend the mandate of the FCAC to enable it to monitor compliance with the Code of Conduct for Canada’s credit and debit markets. Since this announcement there have been rising concerns by operators of additional fees being implemented around security charges - TIANS encourages operators to continue to provide feedback on any issues around this topic.
ENVIRONMENTAL ADVOCACY
Tourism Input to the Future of Forestry in Nova Scotia
A Phase 2 Report, to guide the development of a new strategy for Nova Scotia Natural Resources was released on May 7th. This report has generated controversy as the three-person expert panel for forests was divided and submitted two separate reports on forestry management in Nova Scotia. TIANS supports a new path for sustainable forestry in Nova Scotia. The protection of our natural resources is crucial for tourism to continue as a long-term sustainable industry. If you agree, please support your government in making positive change now. This is the first time that a comprehensive forest strategy review has been done in Nova Scotia since the early 1980’s.
Please contact The Honorable John MacDonnell, Minister of Natural Resources at min_dnr@gov.ns.ca and Minister Percy Paris, Tourism, Culture and Heritage at mintour@gov.ns.ca to voice your opinion, before the strategy is completed.
Please send your letter of support today to ensure that tourism is considered a part of this crucial decision regarding our natural heritage. To view a template letter, please click here.
The Future of Nova Scotia’s Forests Important to Tourism
On July 23rd, TIANS submitted the following Letter to the Editor to the Chronicle Herald.
Lighthouses of Nova Scotia – A Crucial Part of the Tourism Product
On June 6th TIANS presented to the Fisheries & Ocean Senate Committee on Canadian Lighthouses at the Marriott Hotel. The Heritage Lighthouse Protection Act came into effect in May 2010; TIANS was a strong advocate for the passage of this federal bill. Please click here for a synopsis of the presentation.
What do Canadian lighthouses mean to you?
Share your stories and pictures with all Canadians. More than just beacons of light offering safe passage to ships in a storm, lighthouses are a source of community identity, maritime history and an economic anchor for tourism activities in many coastal areas. The current role and future possibilities for Canada’s lighthouses are at the heart of the Standing Senate Committee on Fisheries and Oceans’ ongoing study of Canadian lighthouses. From automation to heritage preservation, from the evolving work of lightkeepers to the labours of non-profit organizations, the committee is exploring the issues and the efforts underway to maintain our lighthouses. This blog is an online forum for celebrating Canada’s lighthouses, and does not constitute a parliamentary proceeding. For more information please visit www.canadianlighthouses.ca
Water Resource Management Strategy for Nova Scotia
On May 20, 2010, TIANS was invited to meet with the Nova Scotia Department of Environment to review the Draft Water Strategy and contribute input during their targeted phase of consultation. The Draft Strategy will be finalized and publicly launched by December 2010. For more information on the Draft Water Strategy process, please visit http://www.gov.ns.ca/nse/water.strategy/
Coastal Strategy for Nova Scotia
On June 14, 2010, TIANS was invited to participate in a multi-stakeholder workshop as part of the ongoing public consultation process for developing a Coastal Strategy for Nova Scotia. This stakeholder consultation followed eight public Open House sessions held in May throughout the province. In December 2009, the provincial government released the State of Nova Scotia’s Coast Report with six coastal issues identified as being of priority concern in Nova Scotia. The development of the Coastal Strategy is expected by the end of 2010.
TRANSPORTATION ADVOCACY
Are we there yet?
The July/August Edition of Saltscapes magazine included an article titled “Are we there yet?” addressing the issue that Nova Scotia lags behind the other three Atlantic Provinces in highway signage policies. TIANS has requested that the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal address the long standing issues related to Advertising Signage on the 100 Series Control Access highways. TIANS is hopeful of a solution on this issue as we work at ways to improve the competitive environment and address environmental issues around signage.
Road Investment to Consider Tourism Impact
TIANS has asked government to consider the tourism impact when decisions are made in regards to road investment. Many of the most traveled roadways in the province are a result of a tourism destination or attraction. Priority and consideration should be given to those roads heavily used by residents and visitors alike. On July 17th TIANS was quoted in the Chronicle Herald article “Roads less travelled” about the importance of our secondary roads.
HUMAN RESOURCE ISSUES AND ADVOCACY
Consider Tourism When Selecting School Start Date.
TIANS asked Department of Education to Consider Tourism When Selecting School Start Date.
In January TIANS wrote to the Department of Education regarding the secondary school start date before the Labour Day weekend, to view correspondence click here. On March 10, 2010, Minister More responded and indicated future planning will consider tourism, to view the letter, please click here.
Recognition of Excellence Dinner
On May 13th, 2010 the Nova Scotia Tourism Human Resource Council hosted the 15th Annual Recognition of Excellence Dinner in recognition of Nova Scotia Tourism Professionals who achieved national certification in their given occupation within the past year. This year 200 candidates registered for national certification including front line employees, tourism supervisors and managers. In addition to recognizing our Tourism Professionals, ten employers were awarded the National Business Recognition designation. These businesses have made a commitment to support the professional development of their employees and have maintained an average of at least 60% certified employees in available occupations. For a listing of this year’s properties, please check out the following link on the Council’s website - http://www.tourismhrc.com/recognition.php
Tourism Scholarships
In June 2010, the Nova Scotia Tourism Human Resource Council awarded three Nova Scotia high school graduates with Tourism Scholarships to help support their post secondary education in tourism. This year’s winners are:
Walter H. Johnson Jr. Gold Scholarship Winner is Samantha Graves from West Kings District High School – she will be attending the Tourism Management program at Kingstec Campus.
Walter H. Johnson Jr. Silver Scholarship Winner is Autumn Fiske from Lockeport Regional High School – she will be attending the Management program at Mount Saint Vincent University.
In partnership with the Hotel Association of Nova Scotia, the NSTHRC/HANS Culinary Scholarship Winner is Brianne Muise from West Kings District High School – she will be attending the Culinary Arts program at Akerley Campus. For more information on the Council’s Tourism Scholarships please check out the link at http://www.tourismhrc.com/scholarship.php
The Council also offers an annual scholarship to Tourism Professionals who are pursuing professional development opportunities to further their career goals.
Tourism Best Practice Mission – Belfast, Rockland and Camden, Maine
On June 7th a group of 13 tourism industry operators and representatives departed from Halifax to visit the mid-coast region of Maine on a Best Practice Mission. TIANS and NSTHRC, in partnership with the Nova Scotia Department of Tourism and Tourism Atlantic – ACOA, coordinated the mission. The theme of the mission was "The Redefining of a Community” and included representatives from across the province including Shelburne, Yarmouth, Pictou, Louisbourg, and Halifax Regional Municipality. The final report for the mission is available on the TIANS website. For further information on upcoming missions, please contact Lisa Dahr, Manager, Professional Development, at 422-5249.
Culinary and Hospitality Qualification Frameworks
The Canadian Tourism Human Resource Council (CTHRC) has recently released Culinary and Hospitality Qualification Frameworks. This tool will be used by industry operators and educators to help employees and learners identify an appropriate career path in the culinary field. For more information on the Culinary or Hospitality Qualifications Framework, please visit www.tourismqualifications.ca or contact Jane Rozee at jane@tourism.ca
Tourism Mentorship Program
The Nova Scotia Tourism Human Resource Council (NSTHRC) has launched the Tourism 1 to 1 Mentorship Program that provides Members with an opportunity to connect with experienced Tourism Industry operators who are willing and able to share their expertise with their Industry colleagues. For more information please contact our office at 422-5853 or visit www.tourismmentoring1to1.ca
RESEARCH:
Community Invited to Share Thoughts on Proposed Convention Centre
Trade Centre Limited (TCL) launched a website to provide information and gather feedback about the proposed new convention centre. The site offers Nova Scotians the opportunity to share their views on the project. “The proposed convention centre is of interest to many people in the community,” said Scott Ferguson, President and CEO of TCL. “We believe it is important to ensure information is easily accessible and to hear the community’s thoughts on the project.” The site, provides background on the project, has a weekly discussion forum and invites feedback. As new information and reports become available, they will be accessible on the site. To view please visit www.conventioncentreinfo.com
Tourism Snapshot - 2009 Year-in-Review
The annual Tourism Snapshot—2009 Year-In-Review provides valuable facts and figures for tourism operators, destination marketing organizations, media, PR pros and anyone involved with promoting Canada travel to the world.
February, March 2010, and April Tourism Snapshot
Please be advised that the Canadian Tourism Commission has just released the February & March 2010 Tourism Snapshot, our Market Research product, prepared for the tourism industry.
February 2010 Tourism Snapshot, March 2010 Tourism Snapshot and April 2010 Tourism Snapshot
HIAA Reports 2009 Surplus
During a Global Economic Downturn, HIAA Managed Prudently while Building for the Future. Despite 2009 being a year of global economic uncertainly, HIAA still delivered on key capital projects and finished the year with a $3.3 million surplus. Financial and operating results were released at HIAA’s annual public meeting. To view the HIAA’s annual report, please click here.
Living with Coyotes in Nova Scotia
Do you know how to protect yourself from an aggressive coyote? If coyotes are seen near your home, learn to identify them and recognize the potential danger. Coyotes are elusive and normally avoid humans. To prevent coyotes from becoming less fearful of people, do not place food sources such as garbage, compost, pet foods or other human waste outside. For more information, please click here. To report a nuisance coyote, a listing of Department of Natural Resources offices is available at: www.gov.ns.ca/natr/staffdir/offices.asp or phone 1-800-565-2224
Future Concerns Drag Down Consumer Confidence: Survey
The latest results from TNS Canada’s Consumer Confidence Index suggest that future concerns are stifling chances of a sustained consumer-led economic recovery as confidence in the Canadian economy’s long-term prospects tumbled. Indeed, worries about the future have only intensified in the last month. Overall, the index dropped 4.5 points from 98.9 in June to 94.4 in July. To view the complete report, please click here.
INDUSTRY NEWS:
InTouch – May 2010 & June 2010
InTouch is a way for the Department to communicate with you, industry partners, as we move forward to strengthening the tourism sector and promote Nova Scotia as a prime visitor destination. To view the May edition, please click here. To view the June edition, please click here.
Hillsdale House Inn receives TripAdvisor® 2010 Travelers’ Choice Award
TripAdvisor® has recognized Hillsdale House Inn with a 2010 Travelers’ Choice Award placing it among the top 10 B&B's/Inns in Canada. Hillsdale House Inn is the only recipient east of Ontario. TripAdvisor® Travelers’ Choice Award winners are determined based on the unbiased reviews and opinions of subscribers about accommodations on TripAdvisor.com and other web content. To view the press release, please click here.
Patricia Lyall appointed Chair of Canada Meetings & Conventions Advisory Board
Patricia Lyall, Destination Halifax President & CEO, was appointed Chair of the Canadian Tourism Commission’s MC&IT Advisory Board on April 1, 2010. Lyall will serve for the next three years (3), helping to guide and strengthen Canada’s overall position as premier meetings, convention and incentive travel destination. To view the press release, please click here.
Nova Scotia Distillery Wins First Gold Medal
One Gold Medal and two Silver Medals were brought back to Nova Scotia from the Taster’s Guild International Spirits Competition in Grand Rapids, Michigan by Andrew Shelswell, distiller at Jost Vineyards in Malagash, Nova Scotia. The winning spirits are Jost Yellow Plum Eau de Vie (Gold Medal), Jost Red Plum Eau de Vie (Silver Medal) and Jost Muscat Grappa (Silver Medal). To view the media release, please click here.
Adventures in Taste Program Promotes Culinary Tourism in Nova Scotia
Adventures in Taste, a culinary tourism program developed in joint partnership between the Nova Scotia Department of Tourism, Culture and Heritage, Taste of Nova Scotia and the Winery Association of Nova Scotia wias launched at the Saltscapes Expo. Adventures in Taste is a collection of culinary experiences linking producers, wineries, restaurants, breweries, distilleries, agri/fisheries tourism providers, tours, farmers’ markets, u-picks and culinary festivals and events throughout the province. To view the press release, please click here.
NovaScotian Crystal Introduces New Prodcut - A rum glass worth its salt
NovaScotian Crystal creates their first-ever rum glass. Much salt was sweat out in NovaScotian Crystal’s fiery glassworks over the past few months for the creation of the perfect rum glass. The new Seafarer’s rum glass was launched to the public on May 1, 2010 at Saltscapes Lifestyle Exhibition in Halifax, Nova Scotia. “We have a practice of designing our barware and stemware to enhance the pleasure of specific beverages,” said Rod McCulloch, President, NovaScotian Crystal. “With a single malt glass and a host of wine glasses under our belt, we thought it was high time we tackled rum.” To view the media release, please click here.
Making History Together - Vote to Make the Bay of Fundy - New7Wonders of Nature!
The Bay of Fundy has won the prestigious nomination to represent Canada in the final stage of the global Official New7Wonders of Nature contest. Starting in 2007, the Bay of Fundy was one of 440 participants representing over 220 countries worldwide and today is proud to be one of the 28 Official Finalists worldwide. The final 7, chosen by popular vote, will be declared in 2011. To vote for the Bay of Fundy, please click here.
WELCOME TO NEW TIANS MEMBERS:
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Company
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City
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Atlantic Adventure Divers
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Halifax
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Express Lodge
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Dartmouth
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Forerunner Creative and Tourism Strategies Ltd.
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Charlottetown
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Glass Artisans Studio and Gallery
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Cape Breton Island
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Golden Dog Art Department
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Dartmouth
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Mira River Cottages
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Marion Bridge
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Mo's At Five Islands
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Five Islands
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Nova Institution for Women
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Truro
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Plan Ahead Events
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Lower Sackville
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Serviam Executive Coaching Inc.
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Halifax
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Site Valet
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Charlottetown
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Sydney Harbour Fortification Society
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New Victoria
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Two Tittle B&B
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White Point
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Weary Gardener Bed and Breakfast Suite
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Sydney
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MEMBER BENEFITS UPDATE:
TIANS works hard to secure preferred rates for members on a number of benefits. Utilizing these benefits can help reduce operating costs. The following four are upgrades being offered by our Benefit Suppliers to help you get a jump on the 2010 season. For full details on all TIANS member benefits visit www.tians.org/benefits
Leasing Option from Creative Solar
Interested in cutting down on your energy costs? If your location is a good fit for a solar installation, you are now able to lease the system from Creative Solar. All costs, including installation, are included in the lease package. To ensure a quality install, a complete energy analysis of your facility can be completed prior to application. Leasing presents many advantages for an operator, not the least of which are the fixed payments which may be tax-deductible. To find out more, please visit the Creative Solar web site to download a free copy of "The Top 10 Reasons to Lease Your Solar System". For more information please contact Richard Vinson, Creative Solar W. 902-446-8161 C. 902-499-3434 www.creativesolar.ca
Fraser & Hoyt Benefits for TIANS Members
Fraser & Hoyt Benefits offer a medical and dental group plan with individual options to TIANS members and their employees. New members have 60 days to join without needing proof of medical insurance - pre-existing conditions are covered! Would you like to know more about this plan and how it will meet the needs for you and your employees? Just click here to view the FAQ’s for this competitive plan!
SiteValet
SiteValet is a new, web-based tool created for inns, B&Bs, hotels and resorts to build and manage their websites. TIANS members get a free Website Quickstart AND SiteValet service free for two months.
• Website Quickstart: We copy all of your existing web content over to your new site on SiteValet. After that, you’ll just have to complete a few remaining things; it should only take you half an hour or so. QuickStarts normally cost $149, but we’re doing them for free for TIANS members.
• Two Months Free: We will waive the regular SiteValet cost $49.95/month for your first 2 months
$250 in free services! And get up and running in no time. SiteValet Contact Info: Dave Hyndman info@sitevalet.com or call 877.323.3444 For more information visit www.sitevalet.com
Free e-Learning for TIANS Members!
TIANS has partnered with the Glooscap Heritage Society (GHS) to offer our members free e-Learning! There are literally hundreds of courses available including training for all Microsoft Office Programs up to and including MS Office 2007 (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, Outlook). There are also fantastic business and soft skills courses that improve teamwork, office management and customer service skills. Anyone can gain digital skills at their own pace. You don’t have to attend any classes and the learning portal lets you work from home or office; anywhere there is a computer and Internet connection. Best of all, the program is free to TIANS members! Click here for more information about this wonderful opportunity! Register Now! For more details contact Joyce at joyce@centralnovascotia.com or 902-893-8782, www.glooscapheritagecentre.com
INDUSTRY OPPORTUNITIES:
Nova Scotia Partnership Opportunities - Regional Fall Insert
Nova Scotia is offering another opportunity to deliver your customized packages to our important regional market. The Newspaper Advertising Program is a unique marketing vehicle with a focus on packaged product. The Regional Fall Insert has a circulation of approximately 295,000 copies that will be delivered through the Chronicle Herald, Cape Breton Post, Saint John Telegraph Journal, Moncton Times Transcript, Fredericton Gleaner, Charlottetown Guardian and the Atlantic edition of the Globe and Mail. As well, this insert will be available at all Visitor Information Centres. Newspaper drop date: August 28. For more information please refer to detailed package criteria at: http://www.gov.ns.ca/tch/pubs/Packaging-Handout.pdf
Participation Request - Culture Days - September 24th - 26th
Culture Days is a volunteer movement and annual event open to all communities and individuals who believe in the importance of arts and culture in Canadian life. How the movement works: Provinces and territories across Canada are each designating a weekend in September as Culture Days in their region. Volunteer committees are working at the provincial and national levels to secure media partners and corporate champions who will help get the word out to the Canadian public. During Culture Days, thousands of activity organizers across Canada will invite the public to experience and co-create arts and culture in the very communities where they live. Christopher Shore is Chair of the Culture Days Nova Scotia Task Force and is pleased to announce that they have signed on to this important initiative and will be promoting Culture Days in Nova Scotia on September 24th -26th. The Nova Scotia Task Force is asking individuals and organizations across the province to participate. Simply visit www.culturedays.ca and register your event. For more information about Culture Days please contact Chris at cshore@theatrens.ca
The Powered Right Program
A partnership between Nova Scotia Power and Clean Nova Scotia, the program is offering small business owners and organizations across Nova Scotia a free energy efficient lighting retrofit. Trained installers from Clean Nova Scotia will replace your incandescent lighting with ENERGY STAR (R) qualified Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFLs), up to five specialty CFLs and LED exit lights. The retrofits are free and are great for the environment as well as your pocketbook. By replacing regular incandescent bulbs with an ENERGY STAR CFL bulb can save you about $37 in energy costs over the life of the bulb. Call Clean Nova Scotia today at 902-420-7952 or 902-420-7949 to schedule your Cleaner, Greener, Brighter energy efficient lighting retrofit. This program will run until approximately the end of August 2010.
The Pull the Plug program
A hassle free way to save money, energy and the environment by retiring old appliances. When you participate in the program, a professional contractor will remove your fridge, freezer or dehumidifier from your home and take it away for you for proper decommissioning free of charge – normally a $60 value! Not only that, you will also receive a $35 cash incentive for each fridge and freezer you retire, and $10 for each retired dehumidifier. The Pull the Plug pilot program runs in the Halifax Regional Municipality and the Cape Breton Regional Municipality between June 21st and August 21st, 2010.
INDUSTRY EVENTS:
Atlantic Canada Showcase: October 17th–19th - Halifax
TIANS is pleased to announce that Nova Scotia will host the 2010 Atlantic Canada Showcase at the World Trade and Convention Centre. The host hotels will be Delta Barrington & Delta Halifax offering a special ACS rate of $149 per night plus taxes. Atlantic Canada Showcase is a buyer seated marketplace designed especially for the motorcoach, group, F.I.T. and specialty travel industry. Registration will begin in April, for more details please visit www.atlanticcanadashowcase.com
2010 Tourism Summit–The Power of Tourism: November 28th–30th - Halifax
The 2010 Tourism Summit – The Power of Tourism is being held November 28th – 30th at the World Trade and Convention Centre. This three-day event is a combination of high caliber keynote presentations, educational sessions, networking events, trade show and culminates with the Crystal Tourism Awards of Excellence Gala Dinner. For more information please visit www.conferenceontourism.com
Culinary Tourism World Summit - September 19th– 21st - Halifax
BOOK BY JULY 31 TO RECEIVE AN ADDITIONAL $50US in savings for ATLANTIC CANADIAN RESIDENTS ONLY ON EARLY BIRD RATES – ONLY $619US!
Don’t miss this international conference - One World, One Table -Using Culinary Tourism for Economic Development – presented by the ICTA and Taste of Nova Scotia. Conference registration includes: Over 20 working sessions Keynotes by Chef Michael Smith and Food Inc.’s Robert Kenner, two breakfasts, two lunches and two receptions. Visit www.culinarytourismworldsummit.com and click on register button – use discount code LOBSTER2010. To view the media release, please click here.
CTHRC 9th Annual Tourism HR Forum November 15th-17th - Edmonton
Registration is now open for the Canadian Tourism Human Resource Council’s 9th Annual Tourism HR Forum November 15-17, 2010 at the Edmonton Marriott at River Cree Resort. Titled “FRESH Ideas: New Opportunities - Developing a Dynamic Workforce”, this year’s event addresses critical HR issues currently facing the tourism sector, including the labour shortage, staff recruitment, retention, and training. A variety of forum sessions will provide strategies and suggestions for attracting, retaining, and leading top talent. Registration for the Forum and an exciting preliminary program are available now at www.cthrc.ca/hrforum
