Leeds Grenville
   
Economic Development eNews | April 21, 2015
News
Colourful launch for new destination
Leeds Grenville Regional Garden Trail 
The 1000 Islands and Rideau Canal Garden Trail was launched today by the Leeds Grenville Economic Development Office.

Garden owners, a Canadian Garden Council representative and local officials were on hand for the kick-off of the regional tourism initiative held at Centennial Road Church. The new, first of its kind tour linking nine gardens from throughout the Counties runs mid-May to September. 

"If we can get visitors here with the garden then the rest of the community will benefit," said Michel Gauthier, executive director of the Canadian Garden Council. He added garden experiences have broad appeal for Ontario, Canada, U.S. and targeted overseas markets.

The Garden Trail features a mix of private, public and garden centre displays chosen to create an enjoyable route of destinations for Leeds Grenville residents, their guests and visitors to enjoy. Discover native butterflies, honeybees and birds; a monarch Way Station, fountains, ponds, a Zen garden, contemporary art exhibits and statues. Guided or self-guided tours are available and hours vary per site. Brochures are available at participating sites and various tourism centres throughout the region.

The Counties Geographical Information Systems (GIS) department created the interactive Garden Trail map (below). Visit the Garden Trail page on the Leeds Grenville website to learn more.

Top feature photo: Garden owners and representatives gathered for a group shot at Tuesday's launch. The image above is the cover of the tour brochure.

Mayor's Breakfast "Collaborating for Results" draws sell-out crowd

Area business leaders and representatives of all three levels of government attended the annual Augusta Township Mayor's Breakfast on Friday, April 10, at the Grenville Snowmobile Club. The keynote speaker was Darrell Veres, plant manager of GreenField Specialty Alcohols Inc. The focus was economic development and working together to retain and attract business and industry. Economic updates were provided by mayors from Augusta and Edwardsburgh Cardinal Townships and the Town of Prescott. 

Photo from left: Leeds-Grenville MPP Steve Clark, Grenville Community Futures Development Corporation (GCFDC) Chair Tom Bailey, MP Gord Brown, hosting Augusta Mayor Doug Malanka, Prescott Mayor Brett Todd and Edwardsburgh Cardinal Mayor Pat Sayeau are shown during the presentation of $2,027 through GCFDC community economic development funding for the upcoming tri-municipal Business Showcase and Expo.
Workshops and Seminars

Spring Small Business Workshop

A free morning workshop is being held on Wednesday, April 29, at the Firehall Theatre in Gananoque. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., with sessions on social media and marketing, new Ministry of Labour regulations, making your business stand out and funding opportunities. Learn more or to register contact   

Lunch N Learn event for business

This free event on Wednesday, April 29, is for business owners/managers aged 18-39 looking to start or build a new business. The session runs from 11:30 a.m-12:30 p.m. at the Excelerator Business Incubator, 361 Queen Street, Smiths Falls. For more information or to register see our workshops and seminars page.
Upcoming Events

    
First tri-municipality Business Showcase and Exposition

The seventh annual Business Showcase & Expo hosted by Edwardsburgh Cardinal and Augusta Townships and the Town of Prescott is Friday to Saturday, May 8-9, at the Leo Boivin Community Centre. Visit their Facebook page to learn more.