New location for Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce
January 19, 2021
NEWS RELEASE
New office location for Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce
Collaboration space available for business
TRURO – Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce is celebrating the New Year by opening its doors at a new location in downtown Truro in an effort to better serve the business community.
The Chamber, a business advocacy and support organization, has moved its offices to 105 Suite B, Walker Street, Truro, after 14 years at its previous location on Prince Street.
“While the concept of moving the office had been discussed by the board since the fall of 2019, the COVID-19 pandemic was a catalyst to creating a much-needed collaboration space for business as part of the relocation process,” said Chamber President Ron Smith. “During the pandemic many work locations were closed to the public and employees moved to remote locations. Our office has received numerous calls from business people now working remotely looking for a space where they could meet a client, conduct job interviews in a private environment or carry out training in small groups.”
In addition to staff headquarters, the newly renovated, bright location features a boardroom and private office with high-speed internet access. Smith is pleased to share that the use of the Chamber Collaboration Centre will be available to members at no charge in 2021 thanks to a sponsorship by Wilsons Heating.
“Wilsons Heating has always found it important to support the business community as they have always supported us through our many decades in business,” Doug MacInnis, Regional Sales Manager/ Truro Branch Manager, Wilsons Heating.
“This initiative is an excellent way for us to give back to the community and we are hopeful that business people will use the space that we have provided in partnership with the Chamber to benefit them.”
The room is dedicated in memory of Past President George Wilson (1948-1949) and Truro business man and Chamber director David Wilson.
Staff have completed training on best practices for cleaning, disinfecting and sanitizing, a COVID-19 safety plan is in place and public health protocols are adhered to.
The Chamber received tremendous support to renovate its new location from the local community and is especially appreciative of support from Grant Thornton, Puroclean Restoration and the Pictou County Chamber of Commerce for their contributions of key furnishings.
Smith said the new office also provides increased workspace for staff to promote physical distancing and heightens the Chamber’s brand identity in the community.
“The Chamber offers many resources and benefits for business and the board felt a greater visual presence would guide people to our organization for assistance in finding the help they need to grow and thrive,” said the President.
The COVID-19 pandemic has created unprecedented challenges for businesses in the Truro & Colchester region and across the province. As the recognized voice of business, the Chamber has provided ongoing support to the business community during these difficult times such as providing consistent safety signage and complimentary masks, working one-on-one with business to navigate government support, offering training and providing support for E-Commerce. Smith said the Chamber will continue its efforts to meet business needs as the pandemic stretches through 2021 and beyond.
For more information on booking the collaboration space, or details about Chamber programs and services, contact the Chamber office by phone, 902-895-6328, email [email protected] or visit their website www.trurocolchesterchamber.com
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About Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce
The Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce represents more than 450 members and has been the recognized voice of business in this region for 130 years on economic, political and social matters impacting business. Learn more at www.trurocolchesterchamber.com
MEDIA CONTACT
Sherry Martell
Executive Director
Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce
902-895-6328
Happy Halloween from the Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce
Download your colouring page by clicking here:
Page 1 - witches
Page 2- Cat
Page 3- Cauldron
Page 4 - Pumpkin
Does your business need masks? We've got you covered!
Does your business need masks? We've got you covered!
Come to the Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce (605 Prince St, Truro) to pick up a FREE 20 pack of disposable masks! Call 902-895-6328, email [email protected] or message us to make arrangements for pick up. These masks are being made available through the generous support of the Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce, the Town of Truro, Municipality of the County of Colchester and the Truro Colchester Partnership for Economic Prosperity.
#CanadaUnited to promote shop local
The #CanadaUnited campaign is a nationwide small and local business campaign encouraging Canadians to buy local.
RBC, ‘Corporate Canada’, Business Associations and Major Media Partners have teamed up to start a movement, Canada United™, where everyday Canadians and large businesses come together in support of small and local businesses. The movement will start with a #CanadaUnited campaign where Canadians are asked to complete ‘micro-actions’ (likes, views, etc.) in support of small and local businesses on social media. In short, Canada United encourages action from everyday Canadians and Corporate Canada and kickstarts the recovery of local economies and small businesses.
Learn more at GoCanadaUnited.ca
Canada United is offering small business relief grants of up to $5,000 to help small Canadian businesses with recovery efforts as a result of COVID-19. The grant funds will grow over the next several weeks as every video watched and social post liked from Canada United will result in a 5¢ contribution from RBC. Funds can be used for PPE, renovations, or e-commerce capabilities.
To determine if you’re eligible to apply for a relief grant or learn more about this program, visit https://occ.ca/canadaunited-ns
Conditions apply.
Free Re-open kits for business
May 29, 2020
News release
Local support offered as more businesses set to reopen
May 29, 2020
News release
Local support offered as more businesses set to reopen
TRURO – Two local organizations are teaming up to provide support for businesses preparing to reopen or expand services, supported by municipalities and other partners.
The Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Truro Partnership (DTP) are preparing packages free of charge for businesses in Truro and Colchester that will include front of store signage, a physical distancing floor decal, resources to find appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) encouraging support of local providers and resources and tips for developing COVID-19 Workplace Prevention Plans.
“The province has been clear with its message that businesses need to have a plan in place to demonstrate safe operation of their locations to customers,” said Sherry Martell, Chamber Executive Director. “As businesses in Truro, and throughout Colchester County, get ready to reopen and expand operations, we want to support them to ensure customers see consistent safety messages to reduce fear while boosting confidence that it is safe to come out and support our local economy,”
The Chamber and Partnership combined resources to organize the business reopen packages, which are also financially supported by the Town of Truro, The Municipality of the County of Colchester, Village of Bible Hill and Town of Stewiacke.
“We hope that these reopening packages ease a little bit of stress for business owners as they prepare to reopen their doors. We are doing our best to listen to businesses and support their needs as we all transition into the next phase.” said Jenn Mantin, Downtown Truro Partnership Executive Director. “The next steps will be ensuring that there is consistent messaging so customers feel safe and also understand the importance of supporting local at this time.”
The Partnership and Chamber hosted a series of three information sessions to help businesses prepare for reopening following a more than 70 day-long State of Emergency order in the province of Nova Scotia. The province announced on Wednesday that many businesses previously mandated to close could reopen as of June 5 if they have a Workplace Prevention Plan in place.
“The Chamber and Partnership want businesses to know we are here to help them during these challenging times that are overwhelming for so many people,” said Martell. “Our organizations offer support in a variety of ways and connect businesses with the resources they need to comply with new guidelines for operating with the increased risk of COVID-19 in our workplaces.”
The partners anticipate packages will be ready for distribution to businesses during the first week of June. More details on how to receive packages will be available on the Chamber and Partnership’s websites and social media channels. Businesses that would like to be added to a distribution list to receive a package are asked to email [email protected] or [email protected] .
For more information on this project visit www.trurocolchesterchamber.com or downtowntruro.ca/ .
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Media Contact:
Sherry Martell
Executive Director
Truro and Colchester Chamber of Commerce
902-895-6328
Jenn Mantin
Executive Director
Downtown Truro Partnership
(902) 223-6768
Information for business on COVID-19
Click this link for more information about COVID-19 information for business
https://www.trurocolchesterchamber.com/covid-19-business-resources/
Please remember that up to date information regarding COVID-19 can also be found from the Nova Scotia Government at https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus
Join us in sunny Portugal!
As part of our 130th anniversary celebration, we have partnered with Indus Tours to send our members on a trip Portugal.
Online booking link: https://www.indus.travel/tour/a-taste-of-portugal---truro-and-colchester-chamber-of-commerce
Hold your booking today with a deposit and pay the balance until 90 days before departure. Booking deadline is June 29, 2020
Click Below to view detailed itinerary
0120_16_A_TASTE_OF_PORTUGAL-final-3 pages
Jes - A Taste of Portugal EX Halifax - Truro and Colchester - Harish (004)
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO- Portugal Portugal Know Before U Go
A TASTE OF PORTUGAL
TOUR DAYS: 08 DAYS /06 NIGHTS
TOUR TYPE: PRIVATE TOUR
DEPARTURE: WEDNESDAY, September 30, 2020
HALIFAX – LISBON – OBIDOS – NAZARÉ – BATALHA – COIMBRA – AVEIRO – PORTO– FATIMA – LISBON – HALIFAX
Explore the famous cities of Portugal on this 08-day tour, alongside learning about the country's history, cuisines and popular tourist destinations.
TOUR SUMMARY:
This incredible 08-days tour will offer you the opportunity to see the major cities in Portugal. This southern European country is known for its, cobblestone villages, captivating cities, fine wines, and golden beaches. The Portugal experience can be many things from history, great food, and idyllic scenery to name a few. Begin your tour in Lisbon, the capital city and enjoy time exploring its mixture of gothic architecture. Next you will travel North to Batalha and Fátima, a place for you to gain insights into Portugal’s religious culture. You then travel to Aveiro, known as the Venice of Portugal thanks to is picturesque canals. Lastly you will spend time in Porto, where you might sample sumptuous food and drink while being delighted by the gorgeous scenery along the Douro River, before to head back to Lisbon for your return flight.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
- Explore Lisbon’s postcard-perfect panorama of cobbled alleyways
- Visit the fishing town of Nazaré and observe massive waves (in winter)
- See the Monastery of Batalha, one of the most beautiful works of Portuguese and European Gothic architecture
- Discover Aveiro: The Venice of Portugal along the Aveiro River
- Enjoy a morning sightseeing in Porto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 2,000 years of history
TOUR LODGING INFO: 06 Nights Hotel
Accommodation will be provided on a twin sharing basis
CITIES NIGHTS SUPERIOR HOTELS
Lisbon 02 Nights Hotel Tryp Caparica/ Hotel Mercure Almada
Coimbra 01 Night Hotel Tryp Coimbra
Porto 02 Nights Hotel Central Parque/ Hotel Axis
Lisbon 01 Night Hotel Tryp Caparica/ Hotel Mercure Almada
TOUR PACKAGE INCLUDES:
- 6 nights’ accommodation at listed hotels or similar
- Daily buffet breakfast
- Arrival and departure transfers
- Private deluxe transportation
- Service of English-Speaking Driver/Guide
- Sightseeing tour in Lisbon and Porto
- International return flights Halifax – Lisbon - Halifax
- Air taxes and fuel surcharges
- All local applicable taxes
TOUR PACKAGE DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- Items of a personal nature, tips & gratuities
- International airfare for land only option
- Arrival and departure transfers for land only option
- Luggage fees may apply and vary by carrier
- Local city taxes in Porto and Lisbon
- Optional tours
- Travel insurance
- Visa fees if applicable
- Items not mentioned as being included
TOUR ITINERARY:
DAY 01: HALIFAX – LISBON
Today, make your own way to your gateway airport for your overnight flight to Lisbon. Enjoy inflight meals and services on your flight.
DAY 02: LISBON ARRIVAL
Welcome to Lisbon! On your arrival at Lisbon International Airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Day at leisure
Overnight in Lisbon
DAY 03: LISBON (B/-/-)
After breakfast enjoy a tour of the beautiful city of Lisbon. You will first discover Belém where the 16th century Monastery of Jerónimos is (UNESCO World Heritage Site), visit the Belém pastry “pastel” factory dating from 1837 where you will taste the delicious “pastéis de Belém”. You will also have a photo stop at Belém Tower before continuing on to hotel. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon at your leisure. you will have the day at leisure to explore the city. We suggest you visit Piriquita coffee shop in the center and taste the delicious pastries: “Travesseiros and Queijadas” - not included. Perhaps you will book one of the following tours.
Overnight in Lisbon
Optional tour: Gastronomic & Cultural Tour of Baixa-Mouraria (4H) – Based on Min of 2 pax- 160 CAD/person
Available: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
Departure Time: 02:00 PM
Meeting Point: Café a Brasileira *transfer to the meeting point not included
The best way to get familiarized with Lisbon historic district while tasting delicious snacks and portuguese typical dishes. This included a guided tour of the city and 10 tasting of local food.
Optional tour: Electric Bike Tour (3 or 4H) – Based on Min of 2 pax -35 CAD/ person
Available: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
Departure Time: 02:00 PM
Meeting Point: Martim Moniz Square *transfer to the meeting point not included
Guided tours to get familiarized with Lisbon in a fun and ecological way! Ideal for touring the hills of Lisbon! This tour will be provided by a guide.
DAY 04: LISBON – OBIDOS – NAZARE – BATALHA – COIMBRA (B-/-/)
Today after breakfast, you will head north with your first stop being at the medieval walled city of Obidos a charming city with its narrow-cobble stone streets, quaint houses and imposing hilltop castle, which once guarded the region. You will continue to Nazaré, a typical fishing village and seaside resort, famous for its high waves. The tour will continue to Batalha, and you will have time to admire the Santa Maria Monastery listed as a UNESCO heritage site. Near the end of your day you will arrive in Fátima, where Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to three young shepherds and turned the town into one of Christianity’s most important pilgrimage sites. Continue on to Coimbra.
Overnight in Coimbra
DAY 05: COIMBRA – AVEIRO – PORTO (B-/-/)
Coimbra, bathed by Mondego River and known as the city of students, is home to the first university in Portugal and one of the oldest in Europe. You can visit the university (not included) which was once the residence of Portuguese Kings, with its Library, considered one of the most beautiful in the world and currently a World Heritage Site. You will have free time to stroll through the city before departing for Aveiro, known as the “Venice of Portugal”. You will have free time here; we recommend a Moliceiro boat tour along the river to admire the beautiful Art Nouveau buildings and the salt pans or taste the delicious “Ovos moles” a typical local pastry. We will then continue on to Porto, you will be transferred to your hotel. Remainder of the day at your leisure.
Overnight in Porto
DAY 06: PORTO (B-/-/)
Your day will begin in the beautiful city of Porto situated on the Douro River. Porto is a fascinating and vibrant city that is rapidly becoming one of Western Europe’s most respected tourist destinations. The city boasts an extensive history, interesting tourist attractions, a buzzing nightlife, and outstanding tourist facilities. This morning you will have a sightseeing tour to get you familiar with the main attractions of the city. Then you will have the afternoon at leisure to explore the city on your own. There is a lot to see and do in Porto, and this diverse city will appeal to a wide range of visitors. The region is famed for producing Port, which is stored and matured in the vast cellars along the banks of the Douro River. You might finish your day by walking through the Jardins do Palácio De Cristal to enjoy the pleasant views of the Douro River, or maybe book one of the following optional tours.
Overnight in Porto
Optional Tour: Tuk Tuk Tour and Six Bridge boat ride (1H50) – Based on Min of 2 pax- 55 CAD /person
Available: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
Departure Time: 04:00 PM
Meeting Point: Largo dos Loios *transfer to the meeting point not included
Discover Porto through a Tuc Tuc Ride in the city and an hour boat ride on the exceptional Douro river; learn about the winery history in Porto and its exceptional wine.
Optional Tour: Walking food tour (3H30) – Based on Min of 2 pax- 155 CAD/person
Available: Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
Departure Time: 02:00 PM
Meeting Point: Liberdade Square *transfer to the meeting point not included
Get a true taste of Porto on this private food tour with a local guide. Come hungry and visit everything from local hot spots to hidden gems for a look into the authentic side of Porto. This tour includes: 10 Food tastings – a perfect balance of sweet and savory /visit the bustling Bolhão food market / Taste 4 wines from Portugal's many undiscovered regions.
DAY 07: PORTO – FATIMA – LISBON (B-/-/)
After breakfast you will go to Fátima, counted among the largest centers of Mariano worship. Enjoy free time to explore the city on your own, perhaps visit Aljustrel a hamlet located on the outskirts of Fatima. It is the birthplace of Lucia dos Santos, Francisco and Jacinta Marto, who are known to have witnessed three apparitions of the Angel of Peace in 1916. Afterwards we will depart back to Lisbon.
Overnight in Lisbon
DAY 08: LISBON – HALIFAX (B-/-/)
After breakfast, today you will be transferred back to Lisbon International Airport to check in for your onward flight back home.
END OF OUR SERVICES
TOUR CANCELLATION POLICY:
You may cancel your booking at any time prior to the commencement of your by notifying us in writing, which must be signed by the person that signed the Reservation Form. If you cancel on or before the first day of the tour, we will retain any monies paid to cover our costs.
HOW TO BOOK:
If you are happy with the arrangements outlined within this itinerary and would like to book, please forward your completed booking form and the deposit. If you would like to revise the itinerary, feel free to contact us and we can prepare another version which will hopefully match your requirements. The deposit is at least 50% of the total cost (Please refer to the booking form for more details), plus any applicable insurance premiums. This deposit can be paid by cheque, bank transfer or Visa/Master card.
CHANGES BY YOU:
If you request any changes to your travel arrangements once we have confirmed a booking, all out of pocket charges, including charges imposed by our suppliers, will be payable by you, plus an amendment fee of $100.00 per revision per booking. No name changes are accepted. If after the commencement of your tour you request any changes to your travel arrangements, we will do our best to implement them, but we cannot guarantee that it will be possible.
PASSPORTS & VISA FEES:
All Passengers are responsible for securing proper documentation prior to joining the tour. Passports are required; in addition, travelers are advised to check with local consulates for full details regarding Visa requirements. Please note securing a valid visa for entry is sole responsibility of the traveler. Please ensure that passport/s are valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond the intended date of return and contains between 2-6 blank “Visa” pages.
SEAT RESERVATIONS:
We understand that our guests would like to confirm seat reservations for their flights. Please note that some airlines don’t allow seat requests until the time of check in whether that is online or at the airport. When an airline does allow seat requests in advance there is often a cost associated with this. Each airline has its own fees, and this can often depend on the length of the flight or destination etc. If you would like us to pre-book a seat for you and it is possible for us to do so, we will charge $25 per person plus any airline fees.
Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce to honour outstanding business leaders
News Release
Feb. 21, 2020
Call for nominations for Annual Dinner Gala and Awards
Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce to honour outstanding business leaders
TRURO – The Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce is currently seeking nominations to recognize outstanding business leaders at its Annual Dinner Gala and Awards celebration.
Two awards will be presented at the April 22 event; the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) Business Person of the Year Award and the Community Credit Union Business Excellence Award.
To view the full award criteria and to access 2020 nomination forms, visit www.trurocolchesterchamber.com, or email [email protected] .
The deadline to submit completed nominations is April 1, 2020.
The Community Credit Union Business Excellence Award recognizes a business that has been in operation for at least 10 years and has had an outstanding impact on the community in Truro or Colchester. The BDC Business Person of the Year Award acknowledges a founder, owner, CEO, president or manager who has achieved significant success in business showing strong leadership skills and business acumen contributing to the consistent growth of the business.
The Chamber is now accepting seating reservations for the April 22 gala dinner at the Holiday Inn, Truro. This year’s guest speaker will be Ian Wilson of Wilsons Heating. Reserve Seats by April 16. Cost for members $60 plus HST ($70 plus HST for future members). For more information contact the Chamber office at 902-895-6328 or email [email protected].
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Links to online nomination forms:
Link to online application-BDC Business Person of the Year
http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07egxim6dxk6wm56lb/start
Link to online application – Community Credit Union Business Excellence Award
http://survey.constantcontact.com/survey/a07egxilaiyk6wlrpyd/start
Media contact:
Sherry Martell
Executive Director
Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce
902-895-6328
Chamber calls for an immediate end to rail disruption
News Release
February 19, 2020
Chamber calling for an immediate end to rail disruption
TRURO – Jobs are being put at risk as the supply chain to manufacturers and other businesses in this region is strongly affected by the disruption of rail service.
“We have the highest number of manufacturers per capita in the province operating in Colchester County and those businesses employ hundreds of people in this area,” said Ron Smith, President of the Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce. “It is absolutely vital that businesses depending on rail service to deliver raw materials to them for manufacturing can receive those shipments, along with being able to send finished products to reach their destined markets.”
The Chamber has heard from several members impacted by the rail disruption and is encouraging others to reach out to them by email [email protected]. They are also joining chambers from across the Atlantic Provinces and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce to call for an immediate resolution to the issue.
“Along with the economic implications for our manufacturers, we know many local businesses are reliant on propane for their operations, from heat to food preparation,” said Smith. “This disruption will have wide-sweeping impacts on businesses here, now and into the future, as contracts are broken because supply demands cannot be met. It also puts the safety and security of our residents and institutions at risk.”
From grocery and retail stores, to vehicle dealerships, construction and manufacturers, members are sharing the many ways the disruption of service is impacting business in Truro and Colchester, an area already feeling the economic impact of the closure of Northern Pulp. Many are facing challenges as they attempt to seek alternate means of delivery. Rationing of basic daily consumables has already begun and material shortages are imminent.
Smith is deeply concerned about the safety of all people as the disruption continues.
“This isn’t just a business issue, this is a national emergency impacting all people, families and children,” he said. “It’s about providing the necessities of life to people and ensuring the safe operation of our institutions.”
The local Chamber supports the statement issued by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce regarding ongoing rail service disruptions:
“From propane to grain and food and consumer items, Canada’s supply chains are being severely damaged by the continuing interruptions to Canada’s rail services by protestors.
The rail system affects the entire Canadian economy and Canadians everywhere, including people trying to get to and from work. They must be allowed to continue to serve the thousands of businesses that depend on them.”
Smith is calling on all parties involved, including all levels of government, law enforcement, business and protesters to work together to bring an immediate end to the blockades and to restore all rail service.
The Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce has been the voice of business in this region for 130 years. It represents more than 475 member businesses and advocates on their behalf at all levels of government on issues of political, economic and social importance. For more information, visit www.trurocolchesterchamber.com.
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Media Contact
Sherry Martell
Executive Director
Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce
902-895-6328
Lunch and Learn - Driving Revenue Growth
Topic:
Stagnant or declining sales can result from many factors – seasonal slowdowns, market shifts, or under performing sales teams. Join us to learn essential strategies to boost sales, optimize marketing efforts and identify new sources of revenue.
February 26h at the Best Western Glengarry
11:45 am with lunch being served at noon
$25+tax for members / $35+tax for future members
Please call (902) 895-6328, email [email protected] or www.trurocolchesterchamber.com to register!
Book online CLICK HERE
Speaker bio: Chris O’Shea is a business consultant at BDC. He has spent that last number of years working in sales and marketing consulting with BDC. Prior to that, he was developing growth strategies for entrepreneurs and businesses across the country in the agency world. In his 20-plus year career, Chris has also worked in sales, web development, digital marketing, business analysis and technology consulting. He is a client focused and technically savvy professional with a passion for turning business needs into results driven solutions. An advocate of clearly defined processes, he constantly looks for ways to align technology with requirements while always keeping an eye on the bottom line. Check out recent blog posts from Chris: https://www.bdc.ca/en/blog/chris-oshea/pages/default.aspx