#Ottawa attraction 2023 | Explore Tumblr Posts and Blogs

justsellinghomes · 2 months

Text

February 2024 Ottawa Real Estate Market Update

Summary:

A) 15.2% more homes sold in February 2024 versus February 2023

B) However, The sales were still lower, historically, by 13.8% when 5 years are considered.

C) The average price of homes sold in February 2024 was $651,340, representing a 2% increase from the previous year.

D) In terms of inventory, active residential listings numbered 2,158 units on the market at the end of February 2024, a gain of 16.3% from February 2023. So more homes for listed this February than sabe time last year.

E) 1515 listings sold in February and 2809 homes were listed in February. That's approximately only 58% homes sold in comparison to listed. It's key to price and list homes right.

F) 2.7 months of inventory, currently in Ottawa, which means we are still in the sellers market. It's said that when the inventory reaches 6 months, the market shifts into buyers market.

Strong Start to the Year for Ottawa Real Estate Market - February 2024 Sales Data

As a real estate agent in Ottawa, I am pleased to report a robust beginning to the year in terms of market activity. In February 2024, the Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB) recorded a total of 886 homes sold through the MLS® System, marking a significant 15.2% increase compared to the same period in 2023. 15% of more homes sold by the real estate brokerage community.

Despite the increase in home sales, it's important to note that February's sales were 13.8% below the five-year average and 5.7% below the 10-year average. However, this doesn't overshadow the fact that Ottawa's real estate market remains strong and active, as highlighted by OREB President.

The President emphasizes that despite higher prices and stable interest rates, both buyers and sellers are actively participating in the market. However, he acknowledges the challenge of affordability, which has forced many potential buyers to remain on the sidelines.

Recent reports from the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) reveal a concerning trend where communities offering homes under $500,000 are becoming increasingly scarce. This scarcity underscores the urgent need for measures to address affordability issues and increase housing supply.

As real estate professionals, we recognize the persistent demand for housing in Ottawa. To address this, we advocate for impactful measures such as allowing for the construction of four residential units on property lots and eliminating exclusionary zoning. These steps are crucial to bridging the gap and providing affordable housing options for all.

Recommendations for Sellers:

Price Strategically: Given the steady increase in home prices, sellers should work with their agents to set a competitive yet realistic price for their properties.

Enhance Curb Appeal: First impressions matter. Sellers should invest in minor renovations or landscaping to make their homes more attractive to potential buyers.

Be Flexible: In a competitive market, flexibility is key. Sellers should be open to negotiation and consider offers that may not meet their initial expectations.

Recommendations for Buyers:

Get Pre-Approved: Secure financing early to demonstrate seriousness to sellers and streamline the buying process.

Act Quickly: With limited affordable inventory, decisive action is crucial. Buyers should be prepared to make swift decisions when they find a suitable property.

Work with a Realtor®: A real estate agent can provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the buying process, helping buyers navigate the competitive market and find the right home.

In terms of pricing trends, the MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) indicates a 2.8% increase in the overall benchmark price from February 2023, with single-family homes experiencing a 3.1% gain. Townhouse/row unit prices saw a slight increase of 0.6%, while apartment prices rose by 2.7%.

Additionally, the average price of homes sold in February 2024 was $651,340, representing a 2% increase from the previous year. The total dollar volume of home sales also saw a notable increase of 17.5% compared to February 2023.

It's important to note that while average sale prices can provide insight into market trends over time, they should not be solely relied upon to gauge individual property values, as prices vary significantly from neighborhood to neighborhood.

In terms of inventory, new listings saw a substantial increase of 29.5% from February 2023, with 1,539 new residential listings in February 2024. Active residential listings also experienced growth, with 2,158 units on the market by the end of February 2024, representing a 16.3% increase from the previous year.

Despite these increases, months of inventory remained unchanged from the previous year, indicating a balanced market where supply meets demand.

Overall, the strong start to the year in Ottawa's real estate market signals promising opportunities for both buyers and sellers. By staying informed and proactive, real estate professionals and consumers alike can navigate the market successfully and achieve their desired outcomes.

Thank you, Tomasz Witek,

Real Estate Agent, Exp Realty

0 notes

florasearlethirdyear · 2 months

Text

FMP: What Makes a Museum Successful? LO1

Dan Weiss, president of the Metropolitan Museum of Art explains that public engagement is at the core of a successful museum.

"We have to change with the times but not so much so that we lose our way".

Pokemon Go saw an uptick in young people attending museums.

“Any plan for change or strategic vision has to be predicated on deep understanding of the DNA of the organization,”.

The article doesn't answer the question directly but explains that the key is finding a balance between innovation and maintaining the core mission of protecting and preserving the best art for scholars and the public.

Weiss, D. (2016). What Makes a Museum Successful? [online]. Available from: https://insights.som.yale.edu/insights/what-makes-museum-successful#:~:text=Today%2C%20public%20engagement%20is%20a,remains%20a%20matter%20of%20debate. [Accessed 20.02.2024]

Figures are still 69% lower than pre-pandemic levels

Museums need to properly build their brand identity, reputation, and online presence. Nurture strong relationships with your target audience

Museum website must be mobile-friendly.

Virtual reality. The National Gallery of Prague is one of those museums boosting their audience engagement with VR:

youtube

Touching Masterpieces, a project that allowed visually impaired and blind visitors to “touch” iconic sculptures.

3. Incorporating play and games. Here’s a mobile games idea from the Australian National Maritime Museum:

youtube

The Voyage, an online game based on the early 19-century convict voyages.

4. Videos are seen as one of the most effective museum social media trends:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien (@kunsthistorischesmuseumvienna)

instagram

5. UGC or User-Generated Content. It involves authentic, brand-specific content created by users.

6. Influencer marketing:

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Musée du Louvre (@museelouvre)

instagram

7. A comprehensive, high-quality blog opens your museum to new possibilities:

Beyond Bones blog makes a great use of storytelling by connecting the museum’s collections to the audience through engaging content.

8. Podcasting. The Sound Thoughts on Art podcast from the NGA of Washington explores the intersection of sight and sound. Every episode focuses on an artwork of the museum’s collection, highlighting how we experience art through our senses and how it connects us.

Brancato, C. (2023). How to Make Museums More Interesting: Top 9 Museum Marketing Trends to Follow. [online]. Available from: https://themuseumcreative.com/blog/how-to-make-museums-more-interesting [Accessed 20.02.2024]

Museums successfully cementing relationships:

In Rethinking the Museum and Other Meditations (1990), Stephen Well identifies explains that while the function of a museum is to display collections, the purpose of a museum is to make these collections both appealing and accessible in a way that’s beneficial to the public.

National Museum of Scotland: The museum wanted to be more inclusive with young adults and made Lates, entailing nighttime events. One example was a music festival within the museum.

Jamtli in Östersund, Sweden: The museum allows visitors to discover Swedish folklore through story-telling and roleplaying, featuring a functional village and actors who tell tales of a certain era.

Diefenbunker in Ottawa, Canada: Offers an escape game adventure for visitors which takes place across the whole museum

The Guggenheim: Has established Mind’s Eye programs to provide unique sensory experiences for visitors with visual impairments.

The Imperial War Museum: Has expanded its collections and focused more multicultural stories and artefacts. Provides a wide variety of audio-visual and interactive experiences in order to show as many glimpses of war as possible.

The Museum in the Sky: The museum incorporates a plane journey, highlighting many of the archaeological attractions that lie between the Saudi Capital and the ancient city of Al-Ula.

Deakin, T. (2022). 6 museums successfully cementing relationships with their audiences. [online]. Available from: https://www.museumnext.com/article/6-museums-successfully-cementing-relationships-with-their-audiences/ [Accessed 22/02/2024]

Applying to my brief:

I was trying to think about how these concepts could be applied to Pollocks. The only other avenue that had potential was the gamification of the museum. However, this is difficult with no permanent location for the museum, and I don’t think a game centred around toys would appeal to a majority of people. Additionally, I am not well-informed on gameplay and so feel this concept to have no potential. My plan to save the museum would be to focus on the promotional side of things.

#fmp #Youtube #Instagram

0 notes

myottawarealestate · 4 months

Text

Exploring Lower Town and Byward Market: Ottawa's Dynamic Real Estate Landscape

Lower Town, often synonymous with the vibrant Byward Market, represents one of Ottawa's most eclectic and historic neighborhoods. This article delves into the real estate dynamics of Lower Town, contrasting its unique characteristics with broader market trends in Ottawa.

Lower Town/Byward Market: A Snapshot

Lower Town, intertwined with the Byward Market, is not just a tourist attraction but a living, breathing community. As of November 2023, the market activity in this area shows some notable trends:

Sales Activity and Dollar Volume: There were 3 sales recorded in November 2023, amounting to $1,418,000 in dollar volume. This represents a significant decrease from previous years, with a drop of 25% and 72.7% from 2022 and 2021 respectively.

New Listings and Active Listings: November 2023 saw 15 new listings with 37 active listings. The active listings marked a notable increase of 37% from November 2022.

Average and Median Prices: The average price in November 2023 was $472,667, with a median price of $378,000. This shows a decrease in average and median prices compared to previous years.

Market Fluidity: The median days on the market were 21.0, indicating a relatively brisk pace of sales.

Year-to-Date Trends

Looking at the year-to-date figures for 2023:

Sales Activity and Dollar Volume: The total dollar volume was approximately $37,924,892, stemming from 77 sales. Compared to 2022, there's a decrease of 31.3% in sales activity and 34.8% in dollar volume.

Average Price: The average price stood at $492,531, showing a modest change from the previous year.

Comparison with Ottawa's Overall Real Estate Market

Contrasting Lower Town with Ottawa's broader real estate landscape as of November 2023 reveals:

Sales Stability Amid Growing Supply: Ottawa experienced 724 home sales, a slight reduction of 1.6% from November 2022.

Market Performance: Home sales were significantly below the five-year and ten-year averages, reflecting a broader market slowdown.

Price Trends: The overall MLS® Home Price Index (HPI) composite benchmark price in Ottawa was $628,900, marking a modest gain of 1.4% from 2022. The average home price, however, decreased by 0.8% to $633,138.

Market Analysis

The Lower Town/Byward Market area, while reflective of the broader market trends in Ottawa, displays unique characteristics. The area's historical and cultural significance, coupled with its urban lifestyle appeal, makes it a distinct segment within Ottawa's real estate market. The decrease in sales and average prices could be indicative of broader economic factors impacting buyer behavior and market dynamics.

Lower Town and Byward Market continue to be significant players in Ottawa's real estate scene. Despite the current market slowdown, these neighborhoods offer unique opportunities for buyers and investors. With a rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and central location, Lower Town/Byward Market remains an attractive destination within Ottawa's diverse real estate landscape. Buyers and sellers in this area, like elsewhere in Ottawa, should work closely with real estate professionals to navigate the market effectively.

#ottawa #lowertown #bywardmarket #byward market #ottawa real estate #ottawa stats

0 notes

ovpwebnetwork · 6 months

Text

This Just In

MichiganBusiness.org

November 9, 2023

The 12 Sovereign Tribes Building Economic Success with Community

chippewagovernmentsolutions_750x500

Native American Heritage Month, celebrated every November, is a time to honor the traditions, stories and sovereignty of Native American communities, including Michigan’s 12 federally recognized Tribes:

Bay Mills Indian Community

Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians

Hannahville Potawatomi Indian Community

Huron Potawatomi-Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi

Keweenaw Bay Indian Community

Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians

Little River Band of Ottawa Indians

Little Traverse Bay Band of Odawa Indians

Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians

Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians

Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe

Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians

To preserve their culture and create jobs in their communities, these Tribes are expanding and diversifying their economic opportunities. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) is proud to support these efforts to build up Tribal communities, which also supports the state’s push for stronger manufacturing and regional development.

Join these Tribal partners, the MEDC and The Michigan Opportunity, with host Ed Clemente, to learn more about the economic efforts of the 12 Tribes of Michigan.

Strong Communities Are Common Ground

Terri Fitzpatrick, a member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, leads the MEDC’s Office of Tribal Business Development. Fitzpatrick is also the chief real estate and global attraction officer for the state’s site readiness and global attraction efforts, helping businesses move to and expand in Michigan. Those two career responsibilities overlap in their focus on building community by diversifying and increasing economic opportunity.

“I have so much gratitude for growing up with Tribal people where there’s such a strong sense of community. What you do really should be always to benefit others,” said Fitzpatrick. “That comes back to you as well because you’re part of that community. That community-driven focus really has tribes look at business differently.”

Listen as Fitzpatrick explains the economic relationships that Tribes have with Michigan and how their goals align to bring prosperity to every corner of the state.

Listen to The Michigan Opportunity episode

Blending Values with Business for Economic Success

Chippewa Government Solutions, a Tribally owned federal contractor, creates economic opportunities for the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians by combining modern business practices with Native American values, including honesty, humility and bravery.

“People want to do business with trustworthy and dependable companies that aren't afraid to be innovative,” said Alan Barr, president of the company’s board of directors. “That's how we will continue to succeed in cultivating profitable business relationships.”

By putting integrity, collaboration and innovation at the front of the work it does, Chippewa Government Solutions builds the Tribe’s economic success and supports the Sault Ste. Marie region, all while earning a spot on the Michigan 50 Companies to Watch in 2023.

Read the Chippewa Government Solutions Success Story

Diversification for Long-Term Self-Sufficiency

The Waséyabek Development Company, LLC (WDC) is a 100% Tribal-owned holding company managing the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi’s non-gaming economic development activities. By developing a diversified economy, WDC supports the Band’s mission for long-term sustainability and economic self-sufficiency in their communities.

“Tribes practice seven-generation thinking, so we are buying companies to hold, grow and develop over seven generations,” said Deidra Mitchell, president and CEO of the WDC. “When we move into a community with a business, we are interested in growing that community and being good partners, because we're going to be together for the next seven generations.”

Read how two companies overcame barriers to growth by partnering with Waséyabek and the MEDC’s Tribal Grant program, and listen to the podcast episode to hear Mitchell explain the nearly $290-million-dollar impact the 12 Tribes have on the state.

Listen to The Michigan Opportunity episode

12 Tribes Make One Effective Force

Each of the 12 Tribes in Michigan has its own priorities, but shared goals help their communities reach new economic successes. Whatever the focus, from education to economic diversification, the Tribes share strategies, lessons learned and large-scale projects.

“One of the great things that we've seen in the last couple of years is several Tribes in Michigan actually going in on projects together, working together hand in hand,” said Paul Bussey, vice president of operations for Grand Traverse Engineering and Construction. “And I can't think of a time where there was any resistance to sharing information amongst each other. Even in the business world, we don't really look at each other as competitors.”

Listen to Bussey, Anton Matye, president of Bay Shore Steel Works, LLC and Tom Durkee, director of Tribal Business Development at the MEDC, discuss the unique relationship shared by the Tribes to increase prosperity across the state.

Listen to The Michigan Opportunity episode

Sovereign Tribes and Statewide Support

Visit The Michigan Opportunity podcast page and the Michigan Business Success Stories page to learn more about the economic success of Michigan’s 12 federally recognized Tribes. You can also learn more about Tribal efforts across Michigan in a Q&A with Durkee, who discusses the collaborative relationship between the Tribes and the MEDC to support business development beyond gaming; attending the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe’s annual Powwow on their tribal grounds in Mt. Pleasant; and the work the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe and GreenTree Cooperative Grocery to raise awareness, educate shoppers and foster a connection with Indigenous foods.

0 notes

twentythreemillionstories · 6 months

Text

Monday 23rd October 2023, Ottawa, 10.37am.

#157,180 — An alien is sent on a secret mission to Earth, where she appears as a gorgeous, attractive, and single lady. Citizens fight the tanks with stones, and then one soldier comes out of one of the tanks, crying: Why do you throw stones at us? Don’t you realise we are here because we love you?

0 notes

canadahangouts · 7 months

Text

Toronto Events 2023: Your Ultimate Guide to Unmissable Experiences

Toronto, the dynamic and multicultural capital of Ontario, is a city known for its vibrant events scene. Whether you’re a local looking for exciting activities or a visitor planning a trip, Events in Toronto calendar for 2023 has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the top events happening in Toronto this year, ensuring you don’t miss out on the excitement.

1. Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF)

Every September, Toronto takes the spotlight in the world of cinema as it hosts the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF). It’s one of the largest and most prestigious film festivals globally, attracting A-list celebrities and showcasing a diverse array of films from around the world. From red carpet premieres to thought-provoking documentaries, TIFF offers an unforgettable cinematic experience for film enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.

2. Pride Toronto

June is Pride Month, and Toronto knows how to celebrate with Pride Toronto. The Pride Parade is the highlight of this LGBTQ+ celebration, featuring colorful floats, performances, and a joyful atmosphere of love and acceptance. Throughout the month, you can enjoy various Pride events, parties, and exhibitions that promote diversity and inclusivity.

3. Toronto Caribbean Carnival

Experience the rhythms and colors of the Caribbean at the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, also known as Caribana. This multi-week festival in July and August showcases the rich cultural heritage of Caribbean nations. The highlight is the Grand Parade, where masqueraders don elaborate costumes and dance to infectious music. With vibrant cultural displays, delicious cuisine, and lively music, it’s a celebration you won’t want to miss.

Events in Canada

4. Luminato Festival

The Luminato Festival, held in June, is an annual celebration of the arts that brings together artists, musicians, and performers from around the world. You can immerse yourself in an eclectic mix of music, dance, theater, and visual arts. The festival’s mission is to illuminate Toronto with creativity and culture, and it succeeds brilliantly.

5. Nuit Blanche Toronto

Nuit Blanche, an all-night contemporary art extravaganza, transforms Toronto into a surreal playground for art enthusiasts. In October, the city’s streets and public spaces become host to a wide range of art installations, interactive exhibits, and performances. Whether you’re an art connoisseur or just looking for a unique night out, Nuit Blanche offers an unforgettable experience.

6. Toronto International Dragon Boat Festival

Every June, Toronto Islands come alive with the exhilarating Toronto International Dragon Boat Festival. Teams from across the world compete in thrilling dragon boat races, and the event features cultural performances, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate the city’s multicultural spirit and enjoy a day of outdoor fun.

7. Cavalcade of Lights

The holiday season in Toronto kicks off with the Cavalcade of Lights at Nathan Phillips Square. In November, the square is illuminated with festive lights, and the event features live music, ice skating, and a spectacular fireworks display. It’s a magical way to get into the holiday spirit and witness the city’s transformation into a winter wonderland.

Events in Ottawa

8. Toronto Christmas Market

End the year on a festive note with a visit to the Toronto Christmas Market in the Distillery Historic District. Twinkling lights, holiday music, artisanal vendors, and delicious food and drinks create a charming and cozy atmosphere. It’s a great place to find unique holiday gifts, savor seasonal treats, and enjoy the warmth of the holiday season.

9. Toronto Fashion Week

Toronto Fashion Week is a must-attend event for fashion enthusiasts. This biannual fashion showcase, usually held in March and October, features both established and emerging designers. You can attend runway shows, discover the latest fashion trends, and get a glimpse into the world of Canadian fashion.

10. Canadian National Exhibition (CNE)

The Canadian National Exhibition, held from late August to early September, is an iconic Toronto tradition. It’s an exciting end-of-summer carnival featuring thrilling rides, games, live entertainment, and an array of food vendors offering everything from classic fair treats to innovative creations. The CNE is a beloved event that captures the essence of summer fun.

11. Toronto Outdoor Art Fair

Art lovers can explore the vibrant Toronto art scene at the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair in July. Over 360 contemporary artists showcase their work, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and more. It’s an excellent opportunity to connect with artists, purchase unique pieces, and immerse yourself in the world of visual arts.

12. WinterCity Festival

Toronto’s WinterCity Festival, typically held in February, celebrates the beauty of winter with various activities and events. From ice sculptures and outdoor skating to live music and culinary experiences, this festival brings warmth and joy to the winter months. It’s a great way to embrace the Canadian winter in the heart of the city.

Conclusion

Toronto’s event calendar for 2023 promises an exciting and diverse range of experiences. Whether you’re interested in film, art, music, culture, or simply want to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, Toronto has something for everyone. These top events are just a glimpse of what the city has to offer, and there are countless more to discover throughout the year. Plan your visit to coincide with these incredible events, and you’ll be sure to make unforgettable memories in Toronto.

1 note · View note

npzlawyersforimmigration · 10 months

Text

Canada Launches Tech Talent Strategy: New Open Work Permit for U.S. H-1B Visa Holders & Innovation Streams

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

OTTAWA, June 28, 2023 - Canada's Immigration Minister Sean Fraser announced additional measures as part of Canada’s first-ever Tech Talent Strategy aimed at attracting more global tech talent to Canada.

As of July 16th, 2023, U.S H-1B speciality occupation visa holders and their immediate family members will be eligible to apply for a three-year open work permit in Canada. With this permit, they can work for almost any employer in the country. This measure is set to increase labour mobility within North America, as many tech professionals currently working in the US with a H-1B visa are employed by companies with operations in both countries.

This initiative is a part of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)'s strategy to bolster opportunities for skilled workers in high-tech industries, contributing to robust economic growth in North America.

A new Innovation Stream under the International Mobility Program is also in the pipeline, designed to attract highly talented individuals. This initiative is in response to consultations with tech industry stakeholders, highlighting ongoing labour shortages in key tech occupations.

The Innovation Stream, slated for launch by the end of 2023, proposes exemptions from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process to facilitate hiring of skilled workers by employers in support of Canada’s innovation goals and high-tech industries.

Simultaneously, IRCC aims to attract digital nomads who are adept at working remotely from anywhere in the world. Current regulations allow a digital nomad to stay in Canada for up to six months while working remotely for a foreign employer. This is an opportunity for Canada to diversify its labour market with highly skilled professionals, potentially leading to permanent residency.

Another exciting development is the introduction of category-based selection draws for Express Entry candidates with strong French language proficiency or work experience in STEM professions. These categories were selected in response to labour market shortages and future projections.

Additionally, improvements to existing tech programs such as the Global Skills Strategy and the Start-Up Visa (SUV) program are underway. More spots have been allocated under the SUV program, increasing from 1,000 to 3,500. Furthermore, SUV applicants will now be eligible for a three-year open work permit, offering them the flexibility to work beyond their startup.

All these efforts contribute to the IRCC’s broader strategy to foster innovation and competitiveness, attracting the best global talent to contribute to the Canadian economy.

At NPZ Law Group, our U.S. and Canadian lawyers seek to assist clients with regard to employment and family immigration issues. If you or your friends or family should have any questions about any aspect of U.S. and Canadian Immigration Law, please feel free to contact us at [email protected] or you can call our office at 201-670-0006 (ext. 104). We look forward to being able to assist you.

Tags: #CanadaImmigration #TechTalentStrategy #H1Visa #WorkPermit #IRCC #GlobalSkillsStrategy #CanadaTechImmigration #StartUpVisa #CanadianImmigration

0 notes

atlanticcanada · 11 months

Text

Ottawa announces plans to spend $6.3 million on Nova Scotia tourism projects

The federal government said today it plans to spend $6.3 million on 53 new tourism projects in Nova Scotia.

Ginette Petitpas Taylor, the minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, says the goal is to attract more visitors to the region by investing in what she calls world-class tourist destinations.

Among the recipients will be the Eskasoni First Nation in Cape Breton, which will get $500,000 to create new programming for Eskasoni Cultural Journeys, an award-winning immersive Indigenous experience.

Another $500,000 will be given to Saltair Nordic Spa in Baxter's Harbour, where the owners will build Nordic pools and a trail system.

And the Quarterdeck Resort in Summerville will receive $100,000 for construction of tourist accommodations.

The money from the federal Tourism Relief Fund will be in addition to the $7.1 million handed out to 52 similar projects over the past two years in Nova Scotia.

"We have so much to be proud of in our beautiful region, and so much to share with visitors," Petitpas Taylor said in a statement.

"As we launch the tourism season, we are reaffirming the sector's vital importance to our economy, and our commitment to helping tourism businesses and organizations in Nova Scotia develop the world-class experiences."

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 24, 2023.

For more Nova Scotia news visit our dedicated provincial page.

from CTV News - Atlantic https://ift.tt/APRuY1B

#new brunswick #prince edward island #nova scotia #news #politics #canada #CTVAtlantic

0 notes

newstfionline · 1 year

Text

Friday, April 21, 2023

Canada’s NATO shortfalls (Washington Post) Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has told NATO officials privately that Canada will never meet the military alliance’s defense spending target, according to a leaked secret Pentagon assessment obtained by The Washington Post. The document’s anonymous authors say Canada’s “widespread” military deficiencies are harming ties with security partners and allies. The document, which has not been previously reported on, says “enduring” defense shortfalls led the Canadian Armed Forces to assess in February that it “could not conduct a major operation while simultaneously maintaining its NATO battle group leadership [in Latvia] and aid to Ukraine”—and that the situation was not “likely” to change without a shift in public opinion. The assessment, which bears the seal of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, says Germany is concerned about whether the Canadian Armed Forces can continue to aid Ukraine while meeting its NATO pledges. Turkey is “disappointed” by the Canadian military’s “refusal” to support the transport of humanitarian aid after February’s deadly earthquake, the document says, and Haiti is “frustrated” by Ottawa’s reluctance to lead a multinational security mission to that crisis-racked nation.

SpaceX giant rocket explodes minutes after launch from Texas (AP) SpaceX’s giant new rocket exploded minutes after blasting off on its first test flight Thursday and crashed into the Gulf of Mexico. Elon Musk’s company was aiming to send the nearly 400-foot (120-meter) Starship rocket on a round-the-world trip from the southern tip of Texas, near the Mexican border. It carried no people or satellites. Images showed several of the 33 main engines were not firing as the rocket climbed from the launch pad, reaching as high as 24 miles (39 kilometers). The booster was supposed to peel away from the spacecraft minutes after liftoff, but that didn’t happen. The rocket began to tumble and then exploded four minutes into the flight, plummeting into the gulf.

The Companies That Give People the Day Off When Life Gets Stressful (WSJ) More companies are carving out extra personal days for workers, not for a doctor’s appointment or to run errands, but because of stressful events outside of the workplace. The decision to offer these types of personal days is one of several moves company executives say they are making to address concerns about employees’ mental health. They are also offering companywide mental-health days and on-site respite rooms. The moves reflect executives’ belief that addressing mental health directly with their workers is a crucial way to retain and attract the best employees in a tight labor market.

Intruder alert at the White House (AP) On Tuesday, an intruder made his way onto the White House grounds, marking the first time that the presidential residence’s fence has been breached since it was last upgraded. The intruder, a toddler, squeezed through a gap between the bars, crawling around the mansion’s north lawns a bit before being snagged by Secret Service guards. “The Secret Service Uniformed Division today encountered a curious young visitor along the White House north fence line who briefly entered White House ground,” said Anthony Guglielmi, chief of communications for the Secret Service. “The White House security systems instantly triggered Secret Service officers and the toddler and parents were quickly reunited.”

Texas’ next sales tax holiday is for emergency supplies—and it’s this weekend (Dallas Morning News) Texas’ sales tax holiday for emergency preparedness supplies is this weekend. Some basic items needed when the electricity goes out or a tree limb falls into the skylight are excluded from sales taxes for three days. Texans can head to their favorite hardware store and knock themselves out buying batteries for the year, replace the blue waterproof tarpaulin that flew away last year or buy some new reusable ice blocks for the Yeti or the lunch box. Those emergency items plus a few more such as fuel containers and flashlights priced under $75 are tax-free during the state’s sales tax holiday focused on what people need after major storms and floods. It starts at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, April 22, and ends at midnight on Monday, April 24. Some can’t be bothered with the concept of tax-free weekends. But If you’re buying batteries, and need a new smoke alarm or fire extinguisher anyway, that 8.25% in state and local sales taxes in most Texas cities can add up. Knowing when to shop can amount to a free lunch or more.

Costa Rica president gets tougher on security as crime soars (Reuters) Costa Rica’s president on Wednesday presented a set of security measures in response to surging crime rates in the Central American country. “I want people to be able to walk down the street in peace,” President Rodrigo Chaves said as he introduced the measures, including more police, tougher juvenile criminal laws, permitting the extradition of nationals in overseas drug trafficking cases and stricter rules on ammunition sales. Costa Rica ended 2022 with a record 12.6 homicides per 100,000 residents, according to the judicial research agency OIJ. The agency calculates that homicides are up 41% in the first 100 days of 2023 versus the same period last year. This represents one murder every 10 hours in a country of some 5.2 million, which has for years been hailed for its peaceful environment, which has helped make it a top destination for tourists and pensioners alike.

U.K. Inflation Stays Above 10% (WSJ) The U.K.’s annual rate of inflation remained in double digits in March, a level of persistent price increases that could mean further interest-rate increases in the coming months despite a weak economy. March consumer prices were 10.1% higher than a year earlier, down from 10.4% in February, the U.K.’s statistics agency said Wednesday. The core rate of inflation, which excludes volatile items such as energy and food, was unchanged at 6.2%. The March reading left the U.K. with the highest inflation rate among the Group of Seven wealthy democracies, with consumer prices rising more than twice as quickly in the U.K. as they did in the U.S.

3 Nuclear Superpowers, Rather Than 2, Usher In a New Strategic Era (NYT) On the Chinese coast, just 135 miles from Taiwan, Beijing is preparing to start a new reactor the Pentagon sees as delivering fuel for a vast expansion of China’s nuclear arsenal, potentially making it an atomic peer of the United States and Russia. The reactor, known as a fast breeder, excels at making plutonium, a top fuel of atom bombs. The nuclear material for the reactor is being supplied by Russia, whose Rosatom nuclear giant has in the past few months completed the delivery of 25 tons of highly enriched uranium to get production started. That deal means that Russia and China are now cooperating on a project that will aid their own nuclear modernizations and, by the Pentagon’s estimates, produce arsenals whose combined size could dwarf that of the United States. This new reality is prompting a broad rethinking of American nuclear strategy that few anticipated a dozen years ago, when President Barack Obama envisioned a world that was inexorably moving toward eliminating all nuclear weapons. Instead, the United States is now facing questions about how to manage a three-way nuclear rivalry, which upends much of the deterrence strategy that has successfully avoided nuclear war.

For Japan’s ageing soccer players, 80 is the new 50 (Reuters) Mutsuhiko Nomura’s soccer career has spanned 18 World Cups, or 70 years, to be exact. Now the silver-maned former Japanese national team player is a member of the brand new over-80 division of Tokyo’s “Soccer For Life” (SFL) league, which played its first match this month. The sprightly 83-year-old and his teammates are among a growing number of seniors pushing the boundaries of active living in Japan, one of the world’s fastest-greying societies. “When I was a kid, men in their 50s and 60s were considered ‘grandpas’,” Nomura, already a member of several amateur teams, said after a pre-season practice match in February. “And now, we’re all still at it in our 80s. It’s shocking.” “I think the formation of the 0-80 division is a reflection of what we’re seeing in Japanese society, where the elderly demographic can be active like this,” said Yutaka Ito, the secretary general of the SFL league.

‘Awesome’ solar eclipse wows viewers in Australia, Indonesia (AP) Under a cloudless sky, 20,000 eclipse chasers crowded a tiny outpost to watch a rare solar eclipse plunge part of Australia’s northwest coast into brief midday darkness Thursday while temporarily cooling the tropical heat. The remote tourist town of Exmouth, with fewer than 3,000 residents, was promoted as one of the best vantage points in Australia to see the eclipse that also crossed remote parts of Indonesia and East Timor. NASA astronomer Henry Throop was among those at Exmouth cheering loudly in the darkness. “Isn’t it incredible? This is so fantastic. It was mind-blowing. It was so sharp and it was so bright. You could see the corona around the sun there,” the visibly excited Washington resident said. “It was just awesome. Spectacular.”

Stampede in Yemen at Ramadan charity event kills at least 78 (Foreign Policy) A devastating stampede in the Yemeni capital, Sanaa, killed at least 78 people and injured 77 more on Wednesday. The crush occurred at an event to distribute financial aid donations of $9 per person to celebrate the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Hundreds of people were gathered outside the back gate of a school building to receive the charity gifts when armed Houthi soldiers fired warning shots into the air to control the crowd. When one of the bullets hit an electrical wire that caused a small explosion, panic ensued. Although $9 may not seem like a lot to some people, in Yemen it can be the difference between life and death. Yemen faces one of the largest humanitarian crises in the world: 80 percent of the population, or around 21.6 million people, are in need of aid, and 6 million Yemenis are on the brink of starvation. Women and girls face some of the greatest risks as child marriage, human trafficking, and child labor continue to plague the country. And more than 4.5 million people have fled their homes due to violence and the country’s failing economy, which has only worsened from the global food crisis sparked by Russia’s war in Ukraine. (Yemen imports 90 percent of its food, and 45 percent of its wheat comes from Ukraine and Russia.)

Egyptians Struggle to Afford Food This Ramadan as Crisis Worsens (WSJ) Egypt’s soaring inflation and collapsing currency are pushing millions into poverty in the Arab world’s most populous country. Impoverished families have cut back on meat and other foods and essentials for more than a year to make ends meet. With inflation passing 32% in March, just shy of an all-time record, and food inflation at 62%, the highest level in decades, many are now scraping for even their one daily meal, after refraining from eating and drinking in the day during Ramadan.

U.S. allies in Middle East target dissidents on American soil, report says (Washington Post) Egypt and Saudi Arabia, both U.S. allies, use threats, physical surveillance, hostage-taking and prosecutions to try to silence dissidents and rights activists on U.S. soil, according to evidence presented in a report released this week. The report by the Freedom Initiative, a nonprofit rights organization founded by Egyptian American advocate Mohamed Soltan, found that Cairo and Riyadh have “become more innovative and emboldened” in carrying out transnational repression—the targeting of critics abroad. While U.S. politicians frequently voice outrage and impose consequences in response to such tactics on the part of adversaries such as China, Iran and Russia, the report argues, policymakers have not meaningfully held Saudi Arabia and Egypt to account—including for behaviors that violate U.S. law and threaten national security. The findings demonstrate that “U.S. equivocation on rights is a palpable threat to our own citizens, corporations and national interest,” U.S. trial lawyer Jim Walden wrote in the introduction to the report.

Madagascar faces ‘catastrophic’ hunger after 3 cyclones (AP) Battered by three intense cyclones in the space of a year, southeast Madagascar is experiencing the knock-on effect of those climatic disasters: “catastrophic” hunger in remote, inaccessible areas that is gaining little international attention, humanitarian groups say. Cyclone Batsirai hit in February 2022, followed two weeks later by Cyclone Emnati. Then, Cyclone Freddy made landfall on the Indian Ocean island in February of this year. The combined impact left 60%-90% of farming areas in the southeast badly damaged and food crops largely destroyed, according to a report by UNICEF and Madagascar’s National Office for Nutrition.

#headlines #news

0 notes

immigrationpathways · 1 year

Text

Alberta Modifies Permanent Residency Program to Help Fill Jobs

Alberta is making a change to an immigration program to address current and future labour shortages.

Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)

The government is modifying the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) to give more opportunities for international, high-demand workers with close relatives in Alberta to fill job vacancies in the province.

Opportunity for Workers Through Express Entry

“AAIP’s change will draw workers in high-demand sectors through Express Entry who have immediate family ties in Alberta,” said Rajan Sawhney, minister of trade, immigration and multiculturalism. “This approach will help ensure Alberta’s economy will prosper by dedicating a portion of provincial nominations towards in-demand workers who will have a great support network right from day one.”

Recently, Ottawa officially started accepting applications from young workers internationally for the International Experience Canada (IEC) program.

Under the AAIP, Alberta can nominate qualified workers for permanent residency. Nominees must have skills to fill job shortages in the province and be able to provide for their families.

If newcomers have an established support system already in place when they accept a job in the province, they are more likely to have an easier transition to a new culture and community, noted the provincial government. The program also helps retain these workers over the longer term, it said.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) sets AAIP annual nomination limits. In 2022, AAIP issued all 6,500 nomination certificates that were allocated by IRCC to skilled and semi-skilled immigrants across seven immigration streams. Of these, 3,120 certificates were allocated under the Alberta Express Entry Stream.

Shortages Today, Tomorrow

The change to the program is a welcome development for stakeholders.

“The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program is one of the most attractive provincial nominee programs in the country. This announcement will definitely increase the retention of talent in Alberta,” said Sheba Singh, CEO, Canarch Immigration Solutions. “Immigration fuels our economy. Giving priority to high-demand workers with families in Alberta will not only fill the labour gap but will also provide solid support to new immigrants in their settlement.”

There’s already a shortage of workers in the province. Currently, Alberta has 100,000 job openings in the province across all sectors. In-demand sectors include healthcare, construction, education, technology and engineering.

And it can get worse: industry experts predict that Alberta will experience skilled worker shortages into 2025 due to industry growth and retiring workers.

“With job vacancies high and unemployment relatively low, the labour market in Alberta is the tightest we've seen in years, and skilled immigration is one of the best ways we can address the labour shortages affecting the majority of Alberta employers,” said Adam Legge, president, Business Council of Alberta. “Maximizing the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program is a win for Alberta's economy, addressing many of the labour gaps and attracting more people to the province.”

Canada added 104,000 jobs in December 2022, with the unemployment rate declining to five percent, according to Statistics Canada. And employers are anticipating a “brisk” hiring climate for the first quarter of 2023, according to a ManpowerGroup report.

Source: HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR

#Alberta #permanent residency program #AAIP

0 notes

blackwalnut · 1 year

Text

Ottawa Kitchen Remodeling: What to Expect in the Kitchen in 2023

Are you interested in the advances in the kitchen in the year 2023? Come with us as we investigate six new directions in kitchen design for 2019. Our Ottawa kitchen renovations may assist you in achieving your goals, whether to update the look and feel of your kitchen to make it a more attractive room to gather with loved ones or to increase its size to meet the needs of your growing family. If you have any questions or concerns, please call us at +1.613.680.1474.

#Ottawa kitchen renovations #Kitchen Renovations Ottawa

1 note · View note

creatiview · 1 year

Text

[ad_1] In its first new Canadian route announcement of 2023, Air France has revealed that it will begin service between Paris and Ottawa later this year. As of June 27, 2023, the Paris-based airline will launch a new flight between the two capitals, beginning with five times per week. In the same announcement, Air France also stated that the service to Quebec City will resume for Summer 2023, and the year-round frequency to Vancouver, Montreal, and Toronto will also be increased. Air France’s New Ottawa–Paris Route Once service begins on June 27, 2023, flights will operate seasonally between Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport and Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays. The flight numbers and times are scheduled as follows: AF364 Paris (CDG) to Ottawa (YOW), departing 1:10pm and arriving 3:05pm AF361 Ottawa (YOW) to Paris (CDG), departing 5:05pm and arriving 6:15am the next day The flight will be operated by a three-cabin Airbus A330-200 aircraft, offering 36 lie-flat business class seats in a 2-2-2 configuration, 21 premium economy seats, and 167 economy seats. Air France also operates flights between Paris and Montreal, Quebec City, Toronto, and Vancouver, making Ottawa the airline’s fifth Canadian destination. Should Ottawa-based passengers wish to fly to or from Paris on a day when the non-stop flight is unavailable, there is a complimentary bus service between Montreal and Ottawa that connects passengers to Air France flights. Air France Restores, Increases Frequency on Other Canadian Routes Air France has also announced the resumption of the service between Quebec City and Paris, as well as an increase to the number of flights to its other Canadian destinations. The Quebec City service, which was inaugurated in 2022, is set to resume on May 2, 2023. Air France will operate thrice-weekly flights between the two cities on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and the route will be served by the Boeing 787-9 aircraft. Air France also runs a shuttle bus between Quebec City and Montreal on days when flights don’t depart from Quebec City. Air France operates year-round flights from Paris to Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver. These routes are set to see a 25% increase in service compared to 2019 levels, which is great for anyone who is planning a visit to Europe. Review: Air France A350 business class Paris to Toronto Passengers departing from Montreal will enjoy up to three daily flights, and passengers departing from Toronto will enjoy two daily flights. If you’re based out of Vancouver, you’ll soon have the option of flying direct to Paris daily. Keep in mind that KLM also flies to Canadian airports, with service to Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, Toronto, and Montreal. Between the two airlines, you should be able to find a suitable option from any of these Canadian cities. It’s great to see more choice being available for Canadian travellers. We’ve seen some very attractive business class fares available in the past, and let’s hope that Air France and KLM continue to offer great deals going forward. Booking Air France’s Ottawa–Paris Flights with Points Since redemptions with Flying Blue are dynamic, the cost of booking this route may vary. Since the flights are loaded into the airline’s search engine already, we can get a sense of what it might cost to redeem miles on this new route. Keep in mind that while you may be able to find tickets as low as the below values, it may also wind up costing much more. Booking in economy appears to begin at 20,000 miles: Booking in premium economy appears to begin at 40,000 miles: And booking in business class appears to begin at 70,000 miles: Note that the taxes and fees increase as you move into a higher class of service. Once the number of fares available at each level sell out, expect the prices to jump up. Earning Air France/KLM Flying Blue miles is becoming easier and easier.

While the most simple method to earn miles is through transferring from American Express Membership Rewards at a ratio of 1:0.75, you can also transfer Marriott Bonvoy points or earn through daily spending on the Air France KLM World Elite Mastercard. Credit Card Best Offer Value 90,000 MR points $499 annual fee 90,000 MR points $1,646 Apply Now 75,000 MR points $199 annual fee 75,000 MR points $1,561 Apply Now 85,000 MR points $699 annual fee 85,000 MR points $1,503 Apply Now

Up to 77,000 MR points $99 annual fee Up to 77,000 MR points $1,419 Apply Now 75,000 MR points $250 annual fee 75,000 MR points $1,118 Apply Now 30,000 MR points $156 annual fee 30,000 MR points $564 Apply Now 10,000 MR points $0 annual fee 10,000 MR points $220

Apply Now $0 Apply Now Lastly, keep an eye out for Promo Rewards to any of Air France and KLM’s Canadian destinations. These can represent an excellent deal, as they slash the number of miles required for flights typically by 25–50%. We’ve also seen the discounts apply to business class in some situations, which brought the price of a flight from Montreal to Europe down to around 27,000 miles. If this happens, be sure to jump on the opportunity, as it doesn’t get any cheaper than this. Conclusion Air France has announced upcoming direct flights between Ottawa and Paris, set to begin five times per week as of June 27, 2023. This route is their fifth Canadian destination. If you’re able to secure a business class flight at the low end of Flying Blue’s dynamic spectrum, spending 70,000 miles for a flight to Europe isn’t a bad deal at all, despite the less favourable transfer ratio from American Express. Snagging a Promo Reward could drop the cost down to an even more attractive level, too. It’s great to see Air France expanding its reach into Canada, as it gives travellers more options for flights across the Atlantic. !function(f,b,e,v,n,t,s)if(f.fbq)return;n=f.fbq=function()n.callMethod? n.callMethod.apply(n,arguments):n.queue.push(arguments);if(!f._fbq)f._fbq=n; n.push=n;n.loaded=!0;n.version='2.0';n.queue=[];t=b.createElement(e);t.async=!0; t.src=v;s=b.getElementsByTagName(e)[0];s.parentNode.insertBefore(t,s)(window, document,'script','https://connect.facebook.net/en_US/fbevents.js'); [ad_2] Source link

0 notes

college-girl199328 · 1 year

Text

Alberta fights Canada government over its crowded parks: Like a tailgate party

On a chilly autumn morning not long ago, Annalise Klingbeil and eight others packed into three cars, departing Calgary in the dark as they drove westward towards the Rockies. They take in the region’s larch season, when the needles of the spiny trees transform a brilliant shade of yellow.

But when they arrived at Moraine Lake, with the sun still hanging behind Banff’s jagged peaks, their adventure was cut short. With the number of visitors growing each year, Parks Canada recently announced it will ban private vehicles along the road to Moraine Lake in 2023 in a bid to ease congestion at Banff’s most popular tourist attraction.

The tension between showcasing the region’s natural wonders and preserving them for future generations is not a new issue for the country’s federal parks agency. Years ago, Parks Canada closed hiking trails and weighed the possibility of visitor caps in more sensitive areas. But the challenges of administering the park have grown more complicated amid a growing political row between the western province of Alberta and the federal government.

This week, minister of forests, parks, and tourism, Todd Loewen, called on Parks Canada to reverse its decision, suggesting the ban would harm tourism, give residents less access to the backcountry, and mark the end of sunrise and sunset hikes or night photography.

In response, Parks Canada said the Moraine Lake parking lot is at capacity 24 hours a day and that while 900 vehicles successfully gain access to the lake each day during the summer, nearly 5,000 are turned away, with drivers often directing their frustration at park staff. The agency said the sheer demand for parking spaces far exceeds capacity and will rely on a shuttle option for visitors. Speaking to a local radio station, Loewen pushed back, suggesting instead that the federal agency build a parking lot.

The idea prompted scorn from Klingbeil, who pointed out that such a move would be banned by law. "With this suggestion he comes across like, he knows absolutely nothing about this issue," she said. She argued that an urgent need to ban private vehicles creates a cultural shift in public spaces.

The row over parks has come amid broader political tensions between the federal government and Alberta, which recently passed a controversial "sovereignty act" that could allow the province to ignore federal laws--setting the stage for potential conflict with Ottawa and Indigenous nations. In November, Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she wanted tourism money generated in the five national parks within Alberta to remain in the province rather than being used to maintain other parks across the country.

But Smith’s governing United Conservatives have a checkered record on parks in the province. In 2020, as austerity measures took hold in the oil-rich province under former premier Jason Kenney, the provincial government announced plans to shutter several parks. Alberta also proposed allowing private businesses to operate other parks to save money, arguing that the parks fail to generate significant revenues. The idea prompted an outcry and was later dropped.

But the future of Canada’s parks--and who uses them and sets the rules--is set to become an increasingly tense issue as the cost of popularity takes its toll on vulnerable ecosystems.

0 notes

ovpwebnetwork · 6 months

Text

This Just In

MichiganBusiness.org

November 9, 2023

The 12 Sovereign Tribes Building Economic Success with Community

chippewagovernmentsolutions_750x500

Bay Mills Indian Community

Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians

Hannahville Potawatomi Indian Community

Huron Potawatomi-Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi

Keweenaw Bay Indian Community

Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians

Little River Band of Ottawa Indians

Little Traverse Bay Band of Odawa Indians

Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians

Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians

Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe

Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians

Join these Tribal partners, the MEDC and The Michigan Opportunity, with host Ed Clemente, to learn more about the economic efforts of the 12 Tribes of Michigan.

Strong Communities Are Common Ground

Listen as Fitzpatrick explains the economic relationships that Tribes have with Michigan and how their goals align to bring prosperity to every corner of the state.

Listen to The Michigan Opportunity episode

Blending Values with Business for Economic Success

Read the Chippewa Government Solutions Success Story

Diversification for Long-Term Self-Sufficiency

Listen to The Michigan Opportunity episode

12 Tribes Make One Effective Force

Listen to The Michigan Opportunity episode

Sovereign Tribes and Statewide Support

0 notes