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March 4, 2025
A date of historic impact as trade relations with the US face an unprecedented, intentional disruption with the application of tariffs imposed through the President's office and the retaliatory tariffs on US goods coming into Canada.
The commentary is overwhelming amidst the political landscape of a federal leadership race, a pending election and the aftermath of a snap provincial election.
At least that outcome was somewhat predictable.
Everything else is still feeling a little precarious.
Based on the last time tariffs were threatened in 2018, I know there are so many conversations happening behind the scenes between international organizations operating in both countries, state to province negotiations and sector alliances that have been built over decades of a free trade alliance and the more recent USCMA, my intuition tells me they are working very hard to maintain a balance that supports mutual prosperity.
At the same time, looking inward to strengthening interprovincial trade, nationwide innovation and competitiveness and looking outward to new trade partners and relationships is not a bad thing. READ MORE BELOW under REPRESENTING
Maybe I should have started with the good news first.
Our community is strong and still steps up!
Congratulations to the United Way HPE on surpassing their goal with the 2024 “IMAGINE” Campaign, raising an incredible $2,250,619, marking the highest total in the organization’s history. Kudos to Tyler Russett, owner of Lafferty's Men's Wear for taking the lead on this year's Campaign Cabinet!
The Children’s Foundation’s Guardian Angel Gala, Prom 2025 - celebrating Tom & Golda Lafferty as this year's Angels - reached new heights this year with an unprecedented fundraising total of $381,000. The funds will support The Children’s Foundation’s Reach for Success Scholarship and Bursary program, creating opportunities for children and youth across Hastings, Northumberland, and Prince Edward Counties.
And thanks to Carrie Oswald - Belonging Redefined - for curating the stories to celebrate Black History Month including this feature on Karen Clayton-Babb (ED for the Belleville Nurse Practitioner Led Clinic and our 2024 Cornerstone Visionary recipient)
READ THE STORY ON INSTAGRAM
CHAMBER UPDATE
Last Monday, President Chris Auger and I presented to Belleville City Council acknowledging the long time partnership with Visitor Services (in the Log Cabin since 1982) and with the coordination of City Events, such as the Waterfront Festival, Canada Day and the Santa Claus Parade. After months of deliberation and discussion, we have come to the mutual decision the events management contract will not be renewed in 2025. Escalating event costs challenge both the City and the Chamber to support free admission festivals at a time when resources are scarce and the future uncertain. The City plans to continue offering Canada Day and Santa Claus parade festivities and the Chamber is assisting with the transition.
As some might remember, the Chamber has been involved with the Waterfront portion of the event since the 80s (at least) and appreciates the legacy the event holds in the memories of many. It has also changed many times since then and we hope new groups and organizations who represent the growing diversity of the region will come together as they did nearly 50 years ago to help celebrate each other through food and music.
To those members who have supported these events through sponsorship or in-kind contributions - your dedication over the years helped make them possible. Thank you for your commitment to the community.
New things coming! Announcing a brand new initiative with HIEC Ontario Career Lab - see details below how you can help youth navigate their career journeys!
Congratulations LaPalm Moving Systems on your 110th Anniversary!
Don't miss out on upcoming events for International Women's Day this week and
mark your calendar for March 31 - Transformative Leadership Workshop.
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