It is a distinct pleasure for me to be appointed as President of one of Ontario’s oldest business associations. The Cornwall & Area Chamber of Commerce has been an advocate on behalf of the City’s business community for 120 years and during that time, it has been a strong proponent for initiatives and programs that have served to move our economy forward.
The first ever meeting of the Cornwall Board of Trade, with its President, prominent merchant John McIntyre was held on May 23, 1890. One wonders about the reaction from those Directors if today’s Board could present the broad range of programs the Chamber delivers and the impact it is making on the community. I am convinced they would be impressed.
Today, the Chamber is involved in a broad range of issues and opportunities all focused on moving the community ahead in this, its third century of service to the community. Home Shows, Heart of the City, and Team Cornwall are just a few of the activities that boast Chamber involvement. More recently, its intensive lobbying with respect to the Cornwall International Crossing has resulted in slow but positive movement.
The Cornwall & Area Chamber of Commerce has eclipsed the 700 mark in business member numbers, a significant number when one considers the total number of businesses in Cornwall to be just over 1400. I believe this to be a tribute to its advocacy impact, the commitment of its staff, and the diligent work of its Board.
As the Chamber looks ahead in 2010, it will continue to lobby for a speedy resolution of the International Crossing issue and the forging ahead of the new, low level bridge. Combined, they will serve to further bolster the local economy and to encourage even more economic development.
Jeff Bethune
President