This joint opinion piece by the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce and the Saint John Board of Trade was published in the Wednesday, January 4, 2012 Telegraph Journal on page A5 under the headline 'Higher wages would hinder job creation'.
In recent months there has been plenty of discussion about the increase of the minimum wage in New Brunswick and how this has been linked to the Government’s Poverty Reduction Strategy. In our view the best way to tackle poverty in New Brunswick is to create prosperous employment opportunities, and recent dramatic increases in the Province’s minimum wage have limited the ability of our small businesses to create jobs. Not only does this undermine any meaningful strategy to reduce poverty but it also hinders our Province’s ability to flourish.
In the past two years our province has seen a 21% increase in the minimum wage, an amount that has risen much higher than the rate of inflation. This, coupled with the increases of doing business, has put financial strain on the small business sector at a time when the Province is still severely challenged by the global economic downturn.
The majority of employers in New Brunswick are small businesses. Indeed, 97 percent of businesses are considered to be small and medium sized. Increases in minimum wage only increase an employer’s costs, and in fact, have a ripple effect throughout the entire economy. More often than not, these increases have unintended employment consequences. To underline this point, consider that New Brunswick is still the only province in Canada to have fewer jobs than it did before the 2008 economic crisis began.
It is our opinion that wage increases should be permitted to grow at a rate that is in tune with natural economic growth in the province. In Alberta, where starting wages vary widely, the legislated minimum wage, as of September 2011 is $9.40 per hour, 10 cents below what we have in New Brunswick. The average hourly wage in Alberta is $26.16 while in New Brunswick it is $19.73. That makes the minimum wage in Alberta 35.9% of the average wage compared to 48.1% in New Brunswick. In Alberta the provincial economy is better positioned to absorb minimum wage increases than in New Brunswick.
Quebec economist Pierre Fortin has argued that if the minimum wage is greater than a certain percentage of the average hourly wage in a province, economic evidence suggests that further increases to the minimum wage can have a profoundly negative employment effect. Fortin has suggested that as long as minimum wage remains less than 45% of the average wage it will not impact employers. Above the 45% threshold, employers need to make difficult choices to reduce their costs. For a number of small businesses, that choice unfortunately is layoffs. With the next scheduled increase to $10, N.B.’s minimum wage will jump to an estimated 50% of the average hourly wage in the province. This will only lead to further hard choices for business owners in the province.
In New Brunswick, approximately 23,000 households, rely on social assistance compared to the 15,000 individuals (mostly students) who make minimum wage. The focus should be more on improving policies like tax benefits and other targeted social initiatives rather than imposing increases on employers who work in a free market economy where the laws of supply and demand rule the day.
The poorest households of New Brunswick would be better served through changes to social programs and policies such as increasing the maximum income before tax, increasing the ceiling on income assistance (especially with respect to health cards), and other initiatives to encourage greater participation in the workforce.
A good job is the most meaningful way out of poverty, and our business members would welcome an opportunity to help create more jobs in New Brunswick. We believe an aggressive minimum wage increase undermines this approach.
In closing, the Saint John Board of Trade and Fredericton Chamber of Commerce agree that poverty is too high and the New Brunswick government needs to take concrete steps to reduce the cycle of poverty. However, we do not believe this should be on the shoulders of business. Virtually all economists agree that increasing the minimum wage as a means to tackle poverty is too blunt a policy instrument, and may have unintended employment consequences. Considering that 1 in 5 young New Brunswickers is already unemployed, our province can ill-afford further experimentation with wage rates.
With more than 900 members, the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce is one of Atlantic Canada’s largest chambers of commerce. A dynamic and relevant business organization, the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce is actively engaged in policy development that affects the competitiveness of our members and of the Canadian business environment.
The Saint John Board of Trade is a nationally accredited business organization dedicated to fostering an economic climate that enhances growth, prosperity, and an improved quality of life in the community. With more than 1,000 members, representing 600 small, medium, and large businesses and organizations and therefore, the interests of more than 30,000 citizens, the Board is a dynamic advocate and the principal voice for the business community of Greater Saint John. The elected Board of Directors is representative of the diversity of the membership and their concerns.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Outstanding Business Achievement Awards Recipients Announced
The Saint John Board of Trade has announced the recipients of its 2011 Outstanding Business Achievement Awards. At its 27th awards dinner, Go-Go Gymnastics Inc. was honoured with the award for Emerging Enterprise, and PUNCH Productions accepted the Entrepreneurial Achievement Award. In the Business Excellence category, the award went to Bayview Trucks & Equipment Ltd.
In the Emerging Enterprise category, Go-Go Gymnastics Inc. took top honours. Kara Hachey started her company from the ground up, founding Go-Go Gymnastics Inc. after winning the NB Innovation Foundation Student Entrepreneur Prize through a class project at UNB in 2006. The first division of the company, Go-Go Gymnastics, located in Fredericton, was an instantaneous success, with over 2,500 children in its first 24 months of operation. With increasing demand, Go-Go Gymnastics opened a second location in Saint John and Quispamsis in 2009, and a third location in Moncton in 2010. Servicing approximately 5,000 kids per year, Go-Go Gymnastics has had tremendous success by focusing on getting children active by making fitness fun.
After constant requests to expand into full-time child care, Kara founded Go-Go Gymrichment, a division of Go-Go Gymnastics Inc. in 2010. Go-Go Gymrichment is an elite after-school care initiative that focuses on teaching five main principles: literacy, leadership, entrepreneurship, arts and culture, and physical activity. The after-school program currently has 87 children enrolled full time and operates out of four elementary schools in Fredericton. Go-Go Gymrichment is expanding in the Saint John area in January 2012 as it undertakes an affiliation with four new local schools: Fairvale Elementary, Rothesay Elementary, Forest Hills School and Island View Elementary. With a goal to teach in an active and engaging way, the Go-Go Gymrichment after-school program focuses heavily on creating 21st-century leaders.
Go-Go Gymnastics Inc. has grown into a multi-functional endeavor, employing over 70 young leaders in New Brunswick. By affecting the budding generations of children within the province, Go-Go Gymnastics Inc. hopes that by getting children active and learning in a meaningful way, they can offer something unique to the various regions of New Brunswick.
PUNCH Productions was founded in 2000 by Judith Mackin, its sole proprietor and only full-time employee. Originally named Punch ‘n Judy, it has grown into a multifaceted company specializing in marketing, branding, public relations, design and event planning. Using PUNCH Productions as a platform for various other business ventures, the company expanded from organizing events and conferences to a variety of media and marketing projects.
Always beginning with the assumption that opportunity is everywhere, Judith has become a fearless serial entrepreneur. She has a number of ‘firsts’ to her credit including establishing the first artist-run galleries in the city, culminating in The Originals, a celebration of Saint John artists; co-founding happinez wine bar and the alternative newspaper here; and hosting a National CBC radio 10-week documentary from Saint John. In addition she writes a newspaper column and most recently branched into a sister company, Punchinside, an interior design firm focusing on makeovers of residential and commercial spaces around Saint John and the province, using industrial design and original art. Her newest venture, with her husband Robert Moore and Acre Architects, Into The Wild, will be the first home in Saint John to feature a ‘green’ roof and will house a design and decor studio (TUCK STUDIO). Punchinside’s design work has already been featured on HGTV and in several design magazines.
Judith has always maintained a close and friendly relationship with the media whether with press releases, newspaper columns, blog posts or interviews, and believes her new website is her best marketing tool. She firmly believes in collaborating with talented locals and promotes the people and companies she works with, as well as the City of Saint John itself. Over the last decade, PUNCH has been a constant presence in the community and has always tried to incorporate all things local into its many and varied projects.
Mike Nagle Junior became President of Bayview Trucks & Equipment in 1994, a company established in Saint John by his father in 1972. Under Mike Jr’s leadership, Bayview has added five additional locations - a full service dealership in Fredericton, truck parts stores in St. Stephen and Sussex, and Kubota Tractor dealerships in Fredericton and Woodstock. In 2007, after signing a dealer agreement with Kenworth Truck Company, Mike cancelled their franchise with International Trucks which had allowed them only limited sales territories. In 2008 Bayview opened a full-service Kenworth Truck dealership in Moncton. Bayview now has exclusive distribution and sales rights for Kenworth products throughout Atlantic Canada and is currently working with them on opportunities in other parts of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Bayview has also become the Atlantic Canadian dealer for Doosan Lift Trucks.
Bayview supports its 113 employees, 55 of whom work in Saint John, with paid training both in-house and off-site, while maintaining wage structures even when times were tough. This has helped keep morale high and the employees, some of whom have been with Bayview for more than 30 years, dedicated to the success of the company. Head office is in Saint John, with branch locations linked to the Saint John-based computer system. Bayview’s Saint John location was the first to be certified by Transport Canada to inspect and certify liquid petroleum tankers for highway use, plus the Saint John body shop is one of only two heavy truck shops in the province able to certify severely damaged vehicles as roadworthy after being repaired.
Working with such highly-respected manufacturers as Kenworth, Kubota and Doosan, leaders in their fields for quality and innovation, has enabled Bayview to expand locations and product lines. Bayview has been recognized with awards from manufacturers for superior market share plus two Dealer Excellence awards from Kenworth Truck Company.
This year’s recipient of the “Young Entrepreneur” award is Keith Brideau, Historica. This award recognizes young business leaders (30 years and under) just beginning to make their mark.
The Board of Trade presented this evening for the ninth year “The Big Heart” Award. The recipient of this award is Hestia House.
Also this evening, Board of Trade Chair, John Warrington presented Enterprise Saint John with the Chair’s Award. This marks the eighteenth year in which a deserving individual or organization has been selected by the Board’s Chairperson for their achievements within, and contributions to, the community.
For more information, please contact:
John Warrington, Chairman Ph: 632-2446
Imelda Gilman, President Ph: 634-4157
In the Emerging Enterprise category, Go-Go Gymnastics Inc. took top honours. Kara Hachey started her company from the ground up, founding Go-Go Gymnastics Inc. after winning the NB Innovation Foundation Student Entrepreneur Prize through a class project at UNB in 2006. The first division of the company, Go-Go Gymnastics, located in Fredericton, was an instantaneous success, with over 2,500 children in its first 24 months of operation. With increasing demand, Go-Go Gymnastics opened a second location in Saint John and Quispamsis in 2009, and a third location in Moncton in 2010. Servicing approximately 5,000 kids per year, Go-Go Gymnastics has had tremendous success by focusing on getting children active by making fitness fun.
After constant requests to expand into full-time child care, Kara founded Go-Go Gymrichment, a division of Go-Go Gymnastics Inc. in 2010. Go-Go Gymrichment is an elite after-school care initiative that focuses on teaching five main principles: literacy, leadership, entrepreneurship, arts and culture, and physical activity. The after-school program currently has 87 children enrolled full time and operates out of four elementary schools in Fredericton. Go-Go Gymrichment is expanding in the Saint John area in January 2012 as it undertakes an affiliation with four new local schools: Fairvale Elementary, Rothesay Elementary, Forest Hills School and Island View Elementary. With a goal to teach in an active and engaging way, the Go-Go Gymrichment after-school program focuses heavily on creating 21st-century leaders.
Go-Go Gymnastics Inc. has grown into a multi-functional endeavor, employing over 70 young leaders in New Brunswick. By affecting the budding generations of children within the province, Go-Go Gymnastics Inc. hopes that by getting children active and learning in a meaningful way, they can offer something unique to the various regions of New Brunswick.
PUNCH Productions was founded in 2000 by Judith Mackin, its sole proprietor and only full-time employee. Originally named Punch ‘n Judy, it has grown into a multifaceted company specializing in marketing, branding, public relations, design and event planning. Using PUNCH Productions as a platform for various other business ventures, the company expanded from organizing events and conferences to a variety of media and marketing projects.
Always beginning with the assumption that opportunity is everywhere, Judith has become a fearless serial entrepreneur. She has a number of ‘firsts’ to her credit including establishing the first artist-run galleries in the city, culminating in The Originals, a celebration of Saint John artists; co-founding happinez wine bar and the alternative newspaper here; and hosting a National CBC radio 10-week documentary from Saint John. In addition she writes a newspaper column and most recently branched into a sister company, Punchinside, an interior design firm focusing on makeovers of residential and commercial spaces around Saint John and the province, using industrial design and original art. Her newest venture, with her husband Robert Moore and Acre Architects, Into The Wild, will be the first home in Saint John to feature a ‘green’ roof and will house a design and decor studio (TUCK STUDIO). Punchinside’s design work has already been featured on HGTV and in several design magazines.
Judith has always maintained a close and friendly relationship with the media whether with press releases, newspaper columns, blog posts or interviews, and believes her new website is her best marketing tool. She firmly believes in collaborating with talented locals and promotes the people and companies she works with, as well as the City of Saint John itself. Over the last decade, PUNCH has been a constant presence in the community and has always tried to incorporate all things local into its many and varied projects.
Mike Nagle Junior became President of Bayview Trucks & Equipment in 1994, a company established in Saint John by his father in 1972. Under Mike Jr’s leadership, Bayview has added five additional locations - a full service dealership in Fredericton, truck parts stores in St. Stephen and Sussex, and Kubota Tractor dealerships in Fredericton and Woodstock. In 2007, after signing a dealer agreement with Kenworth Truck Company, Mike cancelled their franchise with International Trucks which had allowed them only limited sales territories. In 2008 Bayview opened a full-service Kenworth Truck dealership in Moncton. Bayview now has exclusive distribution and sales rights for Kenworth products throughout Atlantic Canada and is currently working with them on opportunities in other parts of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Bayview has also become the Atlantic Canadian dealer for Doosan Lift Trucks.
Bayview supports its 113 employees, 55 of whom work in Saint John, with paid training both in-house and off-site, while maintaining wage structures even when times were tough. This has helped keep morale high and the employees, some of whom have been with Bayview for more than 30 years, dedicated to the success of the company. Head office is in Saint John, with branch locations linked to the Saint John-based computer system. Bayview’s Saint John location was the first to be certified by Transport Canada to inspect and certify liquid petroleum tankers for highway use, plus the Saint John body shop is one of only two heavy truck shops in the province able to certify severely damaged vehicles as roadworthy after being repaired.
Working with such highly-respected manufacturers as Kenworth, Kubota and Doosan, leaders in their fields for quality and innovation, has enabled Bayview to expand locations and product lines. Bayview has been recognized with awards from manufacturers for superior market share plus two Dealer Excellence awards from Kenworth Truck Company.
This year’s recipient of the “Young Entrepreneur” award is Keith Brideau, Historica. This award recognizes young business leaders (30 years and under) just beginning to make their mark.
The Board of Trade presented this evening for the ninth year “The Big Heart” Award. The recipient of this award is Hestia House.
Also this evening, Board of Trade Chair, John Warrington presented Enterprise Saint John with the Chair’s Award. This marks the eighteenth year in which a deserving individual or organization has been selected by the Board’s Chairperson for their achievements within, and contributions to, the community.
For more information, please contact:
John Warrington, Chairman Ph: 632-2446
Imelda Gilman, President Ph: 634-4157
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Saint John Board of Trade announces recipient of 2011 “Chair’s Award”
John Warrington, Chairman of the Saint John Board of Trade is pleased to announce his choice for the 2011 “Chair’s Award” to be presented at the 27th annual Outstanding Business Achievement Awards dinner on Wednesday, November 30th at the Saint John Trade and Convention Centre.
The Chair’s Award was established in 1993 to recognize a company, or individual, who has demonstrated a particular excellence or achievement in a certain aspect of their business, having made either an immediate impact on or a substantial long-term contribution to the economic progress of our community.
“It is my pleasure to announce that the recipient of the 2011 Saint John Board of Trade Chair’s Award is Enterprise Saint John” said Mr. Warrington. “Enterprise Saint John was established in the mid-90’s by the City of Saint John, and at the encouragement and support of the Board of Trade. Over this time they have played a pivotal role in fostering economic development in our community from supporting a culture on entrepreneurship which leads to more new business starts ups and increased business investment to supporting our existing businesses through workforce development and expansion initiatives.”
Mr. Warrington continued “In early 2011, an economic task force reported to Common Council that Enterprise Saint John not only fulfilled its mandate to its funding partners, but was considered by its peers to be a model to emulate. They set the gold standard as a regional economic development agency. Our economic development agency for the region is the only one in Canada that brings together five municipalities to work collaboratively on economic development issues and opportunities; this is regional cooperation at its best.”
Enterprise Saint John’s philosophy is: regional cooperation is fundamental to having a balanced approach to achieving our social, cultural, environmental and economic goals. For Enterprise Saint John, that means focusing on their core services – workforce expansion, entrepreneur development and investment attraction. People, ideas and investment: these are the ingredients for success.
In 2010, Enterprise Saint John was Canada’s only Atlantic Canadian organization in the not-for-profit category to receive an IPAC/Deloitte Public Sector Leadership Award.
Enterprise Saint John led the initiative to have Saint John named one of the world’s 2012 high tech Smart21 hot spots by the Intelligent Communities Forum. Enterprise Saint John continues to lead the
initiative, in partnership with the City of Saint John, to get into the Top7.
Enterprise Saint John delivers the Business Immigrant Mentorship Program in partnership with YMCA-YWCA Settlement Services, the Saint John Multicultural and Newcomers Resource Centre, the Saint John Board of Trade and the Population Growth Secretariat. This program matches newcomers with local mentors to introduce them to New Brunswick’s business culture.
Mr. Warrington is looking forward to presenting the Chair’s Award to Mr. Tony Gogan - Chair, and Mr. Stephen Carson – C.E.O. who will accept the Award on behalf of Enterprise Saint John.
The 27th annual Outstanding Business Achievement Awards dinner, Saint John’s Premiere annual business event, will be held at 6 p.m., Wednesday, November 30th at the Saint John Trade and Convention Centre. Tickets can be purchased online or by contacting the Board of Trade office at (506) 634-8111.
Past recipients of the Chair’s Award include: Mr. Philip Oland in 1993; Saint John Pro Sports Inc. in 1994; Mr. Malcolm Somerville in 1995; the Imperial Theatre Inc. in 1996; Mr. Patrick Darrah in 1997; Cruise Saint John’s “Meet & Greet” Committee and the Irving Companies in 1999; New Brunswick Community College-Saint John and the University of New Brunswick Saint John in 2000; Mr. Lino Celeste in 2001; The Greater Saint John Roundtable on Primary Healthcare in 2002; Mr. Stephen MacMackin in 2003; Dr. Mary Eileen Travis in 2004; The five regional mayors were honoured as group in 2005; The Atlantica Centre for Energy in 2006; the Business Community Anti-Poverty Initiative (BCAPI) in 2007; Bob Manning in 2008; Gerry Pond in 2009; and Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick in 2010.
The Saint John Board of Trade is a nationally accredited business organization with distinction dedicated to fostering an economic climate that enhances growth, prosperity, and an improved quality of life in the community. With more than 1,000 members, representing 600 small, medium, and large businesses and organizations and therefore, the interests of more than 30,000 citizens, the Board is a dynamic advocate and the principal voice for the business community of Greater Saint John. It offers a variety of programs, activities, services, and networking opportunities designed to enhance the business prospects of members and the overall business climate of the area.
For more information contact:
John Warrington, Chairman
Ph: 632-2446
Imelda Gilman, President
Ph: 634-4157
The Chair’s Award was established in 1993 to recognize a company, or individual, who has demonstrated a particular excellence or achievement in a certain aspect of their business, having made either an immediate impact on or a substantial long-term contribution to the economic progress of our community.
“It is my pleasure to announce that the recipient of the 2011 Saint John Board of Trade Chair’s Award is Enterprise Saint John” said Mr. Warrington. “Enterprise Saint John was established in the mid-90’s by the City of Saint John, and at the encouragement and support of the Board of Trade. Over this time they have played a pivotal role in fostering economic development in our community from supporting a culture on entrepreneurship which leads to more new business starts ups and increased business investment to supporting our existing businesses through workforce development and expansion initiatives.”
Mr. Warrington continued “In early 2011, an economic task force reported to Common Council that Enterprise Saint John not only fulfilled its mandate to its funding partners, but was considered by its peers to be a model to emulate. They set the gold standard as a regional economic development agency. Our economic development agency for the region is the only one in Canada that brings together five municipalities to work collaboratively on economic development issues and opportunities; this is regional cooperation at its best.”
Enterprise Saint John’s philosophy is: regional cooperation is fundamental to having a balanced approach to achieving our social, cultural, environmental and economic goals. For Enterprise Saint John, that means focusing on their core services – workforce expansion, entrepreneur development and investment attraction. People, ideas and investment: these are the ingredients for success.
In 2010, Enterprise Saint John was Canada’s only Atlantic Canadian organization in the not-for-profit category to receive an IPAC/Deloitte Public Sector Leadership Award.
Enterprise Saint John led the initiative to have Saint John named one of the world’s 2012 high tech Smart21 hot spots by the Intelligent Communities Forum. Enterprise Saint John continues to lead the
initiative, in partnership with the City of Saint John, to get into the Top7.
Enterprise Saint John delivers the Business Immigrant Mentorship Program in partnership with YMCA-YWCA Settlement Services, the Saint John Multicultural and Newcomers Resource Centre, the Saint John Board of Trade and the Population Growth Secretariat. This program matches newcomers with local mentors to introduce them to New Brunswick’s business culture.
Mr. Warrington is looking forward to presenting the Chair’s Award to Mr. Tony Gogan - Chair, and Mr. Stephen Carson – C.E.O. who will accept the Award on behalf of Enterprise Saint John.
The 27th annual Outstanding Business Achievement Awards dinner, Saint John’s Premiere annual business event, will be held at 6 p.m., Wednesday, November 30th at the Saint John Trade and Convention Centre. Tickets can be purchased online or by contacting the Board of Trade office at (506) 634-8111.
Past recipients of the Chair’s Award include: Mr. Philip Oland in 1993; Saint John Pro Sports Inc. in 1994; Mr. Malcolm Somerville in 1995; the Imperial Theatre Inc. in 1996; Mr. Patrick Darrah in 1997; Cruise Saint John’s “Meet & Greet” Committee and the Irving Companies in 1999; New Brunswick Community College-Saint John and the University of New Brunswick Saint John in 2000; Mr. Lino Celeste in 2001; The Greater Saint John Roundtable on Primary Healthcare in 2002; Mr. Stephen MacMackin in 2003; Dr. Mary Eileen Travis in 2004; The five regional mayors were honoured as group in 2005; The Atlantica Centre for Energy in 2006; the Business Community Anti-Poverty Initiative (BCAPI) in 2007; Bob Manning in 2008; Gerry Pond in 2009; and Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick in 2010.
The Saint John Board of Trade is a nationally accredited business organization with distinction dedicated to fostering an economic climate that enhances growth, prosperity, and an improved quality of life in the community. With more than 1,000 members, representing 600 small, medium, and large businesses and organizations and therefore, the interests of more than 30,000 citizens, the Board is a dynamic advocate and the principal voice for the business community of Greater Saint John. It offers a variety of programs, activities, services, and networking opportunities designed to enhance the business prospects of members and the overall business climate of the area.
For more information contact:
John Warrington, Chairman
Ph: 632-2446
Imelda Gilman, President
Ph: 634-4157
Monday, October 31, 2011
Saint John Board of Trade announces recipient of 2011 “Big Heart Award”
The Saint John Board of Trade is very pleased to announce the recipient for the Outstanding Business Achievement “Big Heart Award” category. The 27th annual awards dinner and presentations will take place at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 30th at the Saint John Trade and Convention Centre.
The Big Heart Award, established in 2003, recognizes those who are working to make this community a better place to live through their support of charitable or other community causes. This award is open to non-profit or charitable organizations, or to companies for their support (through time and money) of those organizations.
The independent judging panel has selected Hestia House as this year’s recipient of the Big Heart Award.
Since 1981 Hestia House has been providing a safe haven for women, and women with children, who are victims of family violence, Over those 30 years, more than 10,800 women and children have come through the doors of Hestia House seeking and finding food, shelter, safety and support, as well as the opportunity to break the cycle of abuse. A non-profit organization with a volunteer board of directors, Hestia House is funded by the Province of New Brunswick, the United Way of Greater Saint John, private and corporate donations, and various fundraising efforts throughout the year.
Hestia House is staffed 24 hours a day with nine full time employees, three relief workers, a child support worker and the executive director who provide lay counseling, referrals to community agencies and accompaniment to appointments with family court, criminal court, lawyers, income assistance and housing. All services are offered free.
A children’s program is operated on site in a special area of the house which has been designed to be inviting, fun, supportive and safe. The child support worker interacts with children and their mothers and offers referrals to community organizations which are designed to offer continuous programs to children after they leave the shelter. A 10-week children’s summer program has been particularly successful.
Abuse can take many forms: emotional, physical, sexual and financial. Making the break from an abusive partner is not easy and often the women face many barriers. Hestia House provides a non-judgmental supportive environment where women can make their own choices.
Previous recipients of the Big Heart Award were The Greater Saint John Community Foundation in 2003, the Irving companies in 2004, The United Way of Greater Saint John in 2005, the Saint John YM-YWCA in 2006, the Carpenters Training Centre in 2007, Canaport LNG in 2008, Key Industries in 2009, and the Saint John Kiwanis Club in 2010.
The Saint John Board of Trade is a nationally accredited business organization dedicated to fostering an economic climate that enhances growth, prosperity, and an improved quality of life in the community. With more than 1,000 members, representing 600 small, medium, and large businesses and organizations and therefore, the interests of more than 30,000 citizens, the Board is a dynamic advocate and the principal voice for the business community of Greater Saint John. It offers a variety of programs, activities, services, and networking opportunities designed to enhance the business prospects of members and the overall business climate of the area.
For more information contact:
Imelda Gilman, President
Saint John Board of Trade
Tel: (506)634-4157 Fax: (506)632-2008
igilman@sjboardoftrade.com
The Big Heart Award, established in 2003, recognizes those who are working to make this community a better place to live through their support of charitable or other community causes. This award is open to non-profit or charitable organizations, or to companies for their support (through time and money) of those organizations.
The independent judging panel has selected Hestia House as this year’s recipient of the Big Heart Award.
Since 1981 Hestia House has been providing a safe haven for women, and women with children, who are victims of family violence, Over those 30 years, more than 10,800 women and children have come through the doors of Hestia House seeking and finding food, shelter, safety and support, as well as the opportunity to break the cycle of abuse. A non-profit organization with a volunteer board of directors, Hestia House is funded by the Province of New Brunswick, the United Way of Greater Saint John, private and corporate donations, and various fundraising efforts throughout the year.
Hestia House is staffed 24 hours a day with nine full time employees, three relief workers, a child support worker and the executive director who provide lay counseling, referrals to community agencies and accompaniment to appointments with family court, criminal court, lawyers, income assistance and housing. All services are offered free.
A children’s program is operated on site in a special area of the house which has been designed to be inviting, fun, supportive and safe. The child support worker interacts with children and their mothers and offers referrals to community organizations which are designed to offer continuous programs to children after they leave the shelter. A 10-week children’s summer program has been particularly successful.
Abuse can take many forms: emotional, physical, sexual and financial. Making the break from an abusive partner is not easy and often the women face many barriers. Hestia House provides a non-judgmental supportive environment where women can make their own choices.
Previous recipients of the Big Heart Award were The Greater Saint John Community Foundation in 2003, the Irving companies in 2004, The United Way of Greater Saint John in 2005, the Saint John YM-YWCA in 2006, the Carpenters Training Centre in 2007, Canaport LNG in 2008, Key Industries in 2009, and the Saint John Kiwanis Club in 2010.
The Saint John Board of Trade is a nationally accredited business organization dedicated to fostering an economic climate that enhances growth, prosperity, and an improved quality of life in the community. With more than 1,000 members, representing 600 small, medium, and large businesses and organizations and therefore, the interests of more than 30,000 citizens, the Board is a dynamic advocate and the principal voice for the business community of Greater Saint John. It offers a variety of programs, activities, services, and networking opportunities designed to enhance the business prospects of members and the overall business climate of the area.
For more information contact:
Imelda Gilman, President
Saint John Board of Trade
Tel: (506)634-4157 Fax: (506)632-2008
igilman@sjboardoftrade.com
Friday, October 21, 2011
Saint John Board of Trade Announces Finalists for 27th Annual Outstanding Business Achievement Awards
The Saint John Board of Trade proudly announces the finalists for Greater Saint John’s Outstanding Business Achievement Awards. The awards dinner, Saint John’s Premiere annual business event, and presentations will take place at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 30, 2011 at the Saint John Trade and Convention Centre.
The five-member judging panel has selected PUNCH Productions, Saint John Ale House, and Thandi Restaurant as contenders for the Entrepreneurial Achievement Award. The finalists for the Business Excellence honour include A.E. McKay Ltd., Bayview Trucks and Equipment Ltd., and Innovatia Inc. The finalists for the Emerging Enterprise Award include Go-Go Gymnastics Inc., Natural Moves YOGA & Belly Dance, and The Urban Shoe Myth.
The recipient of this year’s Young Entrepreneur Award is Keith Brideau with Historica.
Now in its 27th year, the Outstanding Business Achievement Awards event recognizes businesses and business people in the community that have aided business development, entrepreneurship and increased economic progress in Greater Saint John.
The Entrepreneurial Achievement award is designed to recognize a company or individual that has started a business, considerably improved a company, or modified an existing enterprise.
The Business Excellence award focuses on established companies that have achieved highly in management quality, sales growth, community relations, marketing and leadership.
The Emerging Enterprise award recognizes new businesses just beginning to make their mark. To be eligible for this award, companies must have been in business less than five years.
The Young Entrepreneur Award recognizes young business leaders (30 years and under) just beginning to make their mark.
Previous winners of the awards, presented annually since 1985, have included: Lingley Printing Co. Ltd; Tabufile Atlantic Ltd; Pete’s Fruitique; Mother Nature’s Pita Bakery & Restaurant; Bourque Manufacturing Ltd; Eastern Technical Services Ltd; Fundy Computer Services Ltd; Moosehead Breweries Ltd; Hunter Marketing & Communications; Beattie Construction Services Ltd; Thirtysomething Enterprises Inc (The Body Shop); Gardner Electric Ltd; NBTel; Kelly Tire Services Ltd; Mitchell, McConnell, Daniels Insurance Brokers Ltd; PCL & Eastern Packaging Limited; Aquila Tours/Destination Marketing; Baxter Foods Limited; Brenan Group Ltd; DMR Consulting Group Inc; Maritime Aqua Service; New North Media; Delta Brunswick Hotel; Senior Watch Inc; Appleby’s Image Center; Discount Car & Truck Rentals; The Document Company Xerox; Impact Forensic Analysis Inc; CanSupply.com; Java Moose; Irving Oil, Refining Division; Funeral Directors’ Choice; Meridian Construction Inc; Media Planet; Eastern Collections Services Ltd; Cendant Canada Inc; Here Publishing Inc; CAA Maritimes; National Leasing, Rent-a-Chef Inc; H.E.L.P. Educational Services Ltd; Simply for Life; Cooke Aquaculture; Fundy Engineering & Consulting Ltd; ADI Limited; Brovada Technologies; Evolving Solutions; Mariner Partners; CentreBeam Inc; Canadian Cable Systems Alliance Inc; Maritime Rescue and Medical Inc; East Point Inc.; Lorneville Mechanical Contractors; Jacques Whitford Limited; Vision Coaching; The DPL Group; Fundy Region Solid Waste Commission; Opera Bistro; Dillon Consulting; Kelson & Kelson Limited; and ClinicServer.
Previous recipients of the Young Entrepreneur Award were Ji Li, Greg Hemmings, Tao Tao Liu, Marc Robichaud, Leah Anderson, Jenny Scott, James Galbraith, and Kiera Fraser.
This year’s winners will be announced at the awards dinner on November 30th. Tickets for the awards dinner may be obtained by calling the Saint John Board of Trade office at 634-8111, email ccunningham@sjboardoftrade.com or register online www.sjboardoftrade.com
The Saint John Board of Trade is a nationally accredited business organization dedicated to fostering an economic climate that enhances growth, prosperity, and an improved quality of life in the community. With more than 1,000 members, representing 600 small, medium, and large businesses and organizations and therefore, the interests of more than 30,000 citizens, the Board is a dynamic advocate and the principal voice for the business community of Greater Saint John. It offers a variety of programs, activities, services, and networking opportunities designed to enhance the business prospects of members and the overall business climate of the area.
For more information contact:
Imelda Gilman
President
634-4157
The five-member judging panel has selected PUNCH Productions, Saint John Ale House, and Thandi Restaurant as contenders for the Entrepreneurial Achievement Award. The finalists for the Business Excellence honour include A.E. McKay Ltd., Bayview Trucks and Equipment Ltd., and Innovatia Inc. The finalists for the Emerging Enterprise Award include Go-Go Gymnastics Inc., Natural Moves YOGA & Belly Dance, and The Urban Shoe Myth.
The recipient of this year’s Young Entrepreneur Award is Keith Brideau with Historica.
Now in its 27th year, the Outstanding Business Achievement Awards event recognizes businesses and business people in the community that have aided business development, entrepreneurship and increased economic progress in Greater Saint John.
The Entrepreneurial Achievement award is designed to recognize a company or individual that has started a business, considerably improved a company, or modified an existing enterprise.
The Business Excellence award focuses on established companies that have achieved highly in management quality, sales growth, community relations, marketing and leadership.
The Emerging Enterprise award recognizes new businesses just beginning to make their mark. To be eligible for this award, companies must have been in business less than five years.
The Young Entrepreneur Award recognizes young business leaders (30 years and under) just beginning to make their mark.
Previous winners of the awards, presented annually since 1985, have included: Lingley Printing Co. Ltd; Tabufile Atlantic Ltd; Pete’s Fruitique; Mother Nature’s Pita Bakery & Restaurant; Bourque Manufacturing Ltd; Eastern Technical Services Ltd; Fundy Computer Services Ltd; Moosehead Breweries Ltd; Hunter Marketing & Communications; Beattie Construction Services Ltd; Thirtysomething Enterprises Inc (The Body Shop); Gardner Electric Ltd; NBTel; Kelly Tire Services Ltd; Mitchell, McConnell, Daniels Insurance Brokers Ltd; PCL & Eastern Packaging Limited; Aquila Tours/Destination Marketing; Baxter Foods Limited; Brenan Group Ltd; DMR Consulting Group Inc; Maritime Aqua Service; New North Media; Delta Brunswick Hotel; Senior Watch Inc; Appleby’s Image Center; Discount Car & Truck Rentals; The Document Company Xerox; Impact Forensic Analysis Inc; CanSupply.com; Java Moose; Irving Oil, Refining Division; Funeral Directors’ Choice; Meridian Construction Inc; Media Planet; Eastern Collections Services Ltd; Cendant Canada Inc; Here Publishing Inc; CAA Maritimes; National Leasing, Rent-a-Chef Inc; H.E.L.P. Educational Services Ltd; Simply for Life; Cooke Aquaculture; Fundy Engineering & Consulting Ltd; ADI Limited; Brovada Technologies; Evolving Solutions; Mariner Partners; CentreBeam Inc; Canadian Cable Systems Alliance Inc; Maritime Rescue and Medical Inc; East Point Inc.; Lorneville Mechanical Contractors; Jacques Whitford Limited; Vision Coaching; The DPL Group; Fundy Region Solid Waste Commission; Opera Bistro; Dillon Consulting; Kelson & Kelson Limited; and ClinicServer.
Previous recipients of the Young Entrepreneur Award were Ji Li, Greg Hemmings, Tao Tao Liu, Marc Robichaud, Leah Anderson, Jenny Scott, James Galbraith, and Kiera Fraser.
This year’s winners will be announced at the awards dinner on November 30th. Tickets for the awards dinner may be obtained by calling the Saint John Board of Trade office at 634-8111, email ccunningham@sjboardoftrade.com or register online www.sjboardoftrade.com
The Saint John Board of Trade is a nationally accredited business organization dedicated to fostering an economic climate that enhances growth, prosperity, and an improved quality of life in the community. With more than 1,000 members, representing 600 small, medium, and large businesses and organizations and therefore, the interests of more than 30,000 citizens, the Board is a dynamic advocate and the principal voice for the business community of Greater Saint John. It offers a variety of programs, activities, services, and networking opportunities designed to enhance the business prospects of members and the overall business climate of the area.
For more information contact:
Imelda Gilman
President
634-4157
Thursday, October 20, 2011
aint John Board of Trade Congratulates Irving Shipbuilding on being awarded the National Shipbuilding Procurement Contract
The Saint John Board of Trade congratulates Irving Shipbuilding on yesterday’s announcement by the Federal Government awarding them the $25 billion National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy contract for combat vessels. “The contract awarded will enable Irving Shipbuilding to undertake long term planning, which will provide stability and certainty to their supply chains – a very welcome piece of news for our region in today’s economy!” said John Warrington, Chairman of the Saint John Board of Trade. “The whole region will benefit financially from this contract. We are very excited about the opportunities for businesses in our region to benefit, both directly and indirectly, from the economic spinoffs of this investment.”
The National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy contract is expected to see the Canadian economy grow by an estimated $1.5 billion in peak years, and potentially create 11,500 jobs in Nova Scotia and 4,500 jobs outside the province. “As one of only three shipyards across the country on the short-list of potential bidders and the only shipyard in Atlantic Canada on the short-list, we are thrilled the experience of our highly skilled workforce was recognized” said John Warrington.
Irving Shipbuilding’s Halifax Shipyard and the Atlantic region have a proven record of expertise in building naval ships. Irving Shipbuilding alone has built over two dozen government vessels, and numerous commercial and off-shore vessels. “Their ability to offer shipbuilding, fabrication, conversion and repair facilities, and a strong supply chain that stretches throughout the Atlantic Provinces makes them a logical choice for the combat vessel contract” commented Mr. Warrington.
“The Irving companies have a proven record in the Maritimes of using the local supply chain. I fully believe companies across the Atlantic Provinces will benefit from the contract awarded to the Halifax Shipyard” Mr. Warrington continued. “We’re a community on the East Coast – we want to see everyone rise together and realize that what’s good for one will be good for all. Our Chambers of Commerce work together, our Governments work together, and naturally our businesses work together.”
In 2009 and 2010, Irving Shipbuilding worked with 115 New Brunswick suppliers, more than thirty of those suppliers had contracts worth over $100,000, and eight at more than $1 million. For every $1,000 in real GDP generated from shipbuilding inside Nova Scotia by this contract, another $491 is expected be spent in other regions across Canada, $20 of which will be spent in the other Atlantic Canadian provinces. “This is a multi-billion dollar, long-term project which will strengthen many companies in our region” Mr. Warrington mentioned “We’re very excited for Irving Shipbuilding to begin work on this long term contract.”
The Saint John Board of Trade is a nationally accredited business organization dedicated to fostering an economic climate that enhances growth, prosperity, and an improved quality of life in the community. With more than 1,000 members, representing 600 small, medium, and large businesses and organizations and therefore, the interests of more than 30,000 citizens, the Board is a dynamic advocate and the principal voice for the business community of Greater Saint John. The elected Board of Directors is representative of the diversity of the membership and their concerns.
For more information contact:
John Warrington, Chairman Imelda Gilman, President
(506) 632-2446 (506) 634-4157
The National Shipbuilding Procurement Strategy contract is expected to see the Canadian economy grow by an estimated $1.5 billion in peak years, and potentially create 11,500 jobs in Nova Scotia and 4,500 jobs outside the province. “As one of only three shipyards across the country on the short-list of potential bidders and the only shipyard in Atlantic Canada on the short-list, we are thrilled the experience of our highly skilled workforce was recognized” said John Warrington.
Irving Shipbuilding’s Halifax Shipyard and the Atlantic region have a proven record of expertise in building naval ships. Irving Shipbuilding alone has built over two dozen government vessels, and numerous commercial and off-shore vessels. “Their ability to offer shipbuilding, fabrication, conversion and repair facilities, and a strong supply chain that stretches throughout the Atlantic Provinces makes them a logical choice for the combat vessel contract” commented Mr. Warrington.
“The Irving companies have a proven record in the Maritimes of using the local supply chain. I fully believe companies across the Atlantic Provinces will benefit from the contract awarded to the Halifax Shipyard” Mr. Warrington continued. “We’re a community on the East Coast – we want to see everyone rise together and realize that what’s good for one will be good for all. Our Chambers of Commerce work together, our Governments work together, and naturally our businesses work together.”
In 2009 and 2010, Irving Shipbuilding worked with 115 New Brunswick suppliers, more than thirty of those suppliers had contracts worth over $100,000, and eight at more than $1 million. For every $1,000 in real GDP generated from shipbuilding inside Nova Scotia by this contract, another $491 is expected be spent in other regions across Canada, $20 of which will be spent in the other Atlantic Canadian provinces. “This is a multi-billion dollar, long-term project which will strengthen many companies in our region” Mr. Warrington mentioned “We’re very excited for Irving Shipbuilding to begin work on this long term contract.”
The Saint John Board of Trade is a nationally accredited business organization dedicated to fostering an economic climate that enhances growth, prosperity, and an improved quality of life in the community. With more than 1,000 members, representing 600 small, medium, and large businesses and organizations and therefore, the interests of more than 30,000 citizens, the Board is a dynamic advocate and the principal voice for the business community of Greater Saint John. The elected Board of Directors is representative of the diversity of the membership and their concerns.
For more information contact:
John Warrington, Chairman Imelda Gilman, President
(506) 632-2446 (506) 634-4157
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Saint John Board of Trade to host Dr. Warren Jestin, Chief Economist, Bank of Nova Scotia
The Saint John Board of Trade will be hosting Dr. Warren Jestin, Chief Economist with the Bank of Nova Scotia on Wednesday, October 19, 2011 at noon. This event will be held at the Saint John Trade & Convention Centre.
Dr. Jestin has been with the Bank since 1979. He also has worked at the Bank of Canada and taught at several Canadian universities. Warren is on advisory boards for the University of Guelph Heritage Fund and the Sobey School of Business at St. Mary’s University. He has served on the C.D. Howe Institute’s Monetary Policy Council and has been involved with policy committees of the Canadian and Ontarion Chambers of Commerce and the Toronto Board of Trade. Warren also is on the Board of Markham-Stouffville Hospital. As Chair of Scotiabank’s Sponsorship and Donations Committee, Warren works closely with a wide variety of charitable institutions.
Event and ticket information can be found at www.sjboardoftrade.com and can be purchased by calling the Saint John Board of Trade office at (506) 634-8111 or emailing info@sjboardoftrade.com
The Saint John Board of Trade is a nationally accredited business organization dedicated to fostering an economic climate that enhances growth, prosperity, and an improved quality of life in the community. With more than 1,000 members, representing 600 small, medium, and large businesses and organizations and therefore, the interests of more than 30,000 citizens, the Board is a dynamic advocate and the principal voice for the business community of Greater Saint John. The elected Board of Directors is representative of the diversity of the membership and their concerns.
For more information contact:
Imelda Gilman, President
Saint John Board of Trade
Tel: (506)634-4157 Fax: (506)632-2008
igilman@sjboardoftrade.com
Dr. Jestin has been with the Bank since 1979. He also has worked at the Bank of Canada and taught at several Canadian universities. Warren is on advisory boards for the University of Guelph Heritage Fund and the Sobey School of Business at St. Mary’s University. He has served on the C.D. Howe Institute’s Monetary Policy Council and has been involved with policy committees of the Canadian and Ontarion Chambers of Commerce and the Toronto Board of Trade. Warren also is on the Board of Markham-Stouffville Hospital. As Chair of Scotiabank’s Sponsorship and Donations Committee, Warren works closely with a wide variety of charitable institutions.
Event and ticket information can be found at www.sjboardoftrade.com and can be purchased by calling the Saint John Board of Trade office at (506) 634-8111 or emailing info@sjboardoftrade.com
The Saint John Board of Trade is a nationally accredited business organization dedicated to fostering an economic climate that enhances growth, prosperity, and an improved quality of life in the community. With more than 1,000 members, representing 600 small, medium, and large businesses and organizations and therefore, the interests of more than 30,000 citizens, the Board is a dynamic advocate and the principal voice for the business community of Greater Saint John. The elected Board of Directors is representative of the diversity of the membership and their concerns.
For more information contact:
Imelda Gilman, President
Saint John Board of Trade
Tel: (506)634-4157 Fax: (506)632-2008
igilman@sjboardoftrade.com
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