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Canada’s Wonderland actively plans to reopen, seven days after letter is written by Attractions Ontario to the Premier

Published

4 years ago

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BY SIMONE J. SMITH

In light of not being allowed to open, Attractions Ontario believes the government has a duty to these businesses to help them recover the money they spent in vain. We feel that many of the decisions, which impacted our industry, this

past summer did not stem from the science behind the virus.” Troy Young (CEO of Attractions Ontario)

I am sharing this story because what we are seeing now is a movement of solidarity. More and more business owners, and citizens of Canada are recognizing the issues that have been presented with these COVID-19 lockdowns, and they are speaking out.

In October of last year, Ryan Vande Vooren, owner of GlowZone 360 contacted me about concerns he and other business owners had about banks profiting from the funds and guarantees on loans. In a heartfelt letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Ryan spoke on behalf of himself and other businesses. He was concerned that the Royal Bank of Canada was making profit off the backs of the people that the Prime Minister had given them funds to help (Short-term gain for long-term pain; Business owner speaks out against banks).

I received another letter from Ryan, this time he was speaking on behalf of Attractions Ontario. He had sent me a letter written by Troy Young, the CEO of Attractions Ontario. Ryan is on the Board of Directors and he told me right away that he was in full support of everything in the letter. The letter was written on January 21st, 2021 and was addressed to:

Premier Doug Ford

  • Hon. Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister of Finance
  • Hon. Christine Elliott, Minister of Health
  • Hon. Lisa MacLeod, Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries
  • Hon. Victor Fedeli, Minister of Economic Development, Job Creation and Trade
  • Hon. Greg Rickford, Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines
  • Andrea Horwath, MPP, Leader of the NDP
  • Paul Miller, MPP, Opposition Critic, Tourism and Sport
  • Steven Del Duca, Leader of the Liberal Party of Ontario
  • Beth Potter, President of the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario
  • Kevin Nichol, President of the Ontario Snow Resorts Association

Mr Young was very polite, but firm in his requests. He acknowledged the unenviable challenges that the government have had to deal with in the last ten months. He was empathetic about the difficulties that the government must be facing trying to balance the economic needs and the health risks posed by the pandemic.

Notwithstanding, he did feel that there were times when the risk to Ontarians’ health had been overstated, especially when it came to the operations of the members of Attractions Ontario and other tourism businesses.

During the limited operations this summer, there were no outbreaks of COVID-19 attributed to tourist attractions. This was possible because proactive steps were taken to ensure safe operations. They had provided the government with safe operations guidelines from international bodies, such as: the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions and the World Water Parks Association.

Attractions Ontario credits Minister Lisa MacLeod for being a tireless champion for them, and they want Premier Ford to empower her to present a plan that allows the attractions industry to open province-wide safely and in a way that makes economic sense.

One way he noted, to achieve this clarity is to remove the arbitrary caps applied during the previous guidelines. He strongly feels that the hard caps of 10, 25, 50, or 100 applied to those indoor and outdoor attractions, which were subject to them are unfair. He pointed out that grocery stores, big box stores, and other retail activities were not subject to these caps. In general, he believes that retail operations had a less onerous standard applied to them than did any of the tourism businesses.

He then presented another issue, which concerned: amusement parks, waterparks and now ski resorts. During the summer, the government led amusement parks and waterparks to believe they would be able to open when Ontario moved to stage 3. Members of Attractions Ontario made investments with this understanding. In good faith, these businesses, following the government’s directions, invested money in preparing their operations for reopening. Then, with little notice, everything was reversed.

He expressed bewilderment about the fact that if the government never intended to allow them to open, they should have said so early on during the pandemic so that these business operators would not have made investments they would never recover.

He highlights the fact that the amusement parks, waterparks and now snow resorts have borne a higher level of negative financial pressure with the recent lockdowns This added financial pressure may end up closing some of these operations permanently.

SOMETHING HAPPENED!

On January 28th, 2021, an announcement was made that Canada’s Wonderland will be opening on May 14th, 2021, and they are looking forward to welcoming patrons back to what they say will be an amazing season.

It has been reported that Cedar Fair, Canada’s Wonderland owner and operator, also announced that Cedar Point and Kings Dominion amusement parks would reopen on May 14th, and May 22nd, 2021.

Naturally, they will have some heat on them, especially because they plan to re-open, but they are not deterred. Other news sources are saying that they are unclear as to how this happened, and I can’t say for sure, but if this letter was read by Premier Ford and the other people it was sent to, it could have had some bearings on what has occurred.

Without the right connections, we will never know for sure, but what this does go to show is that a group of individuals joined together and stood up. Magically, changes happened. I do hope that our communities will truly revel in the idea that there is strength in numbers.

Related Topics:

We, as humans are guaranteed certain things in life: stressors, taxes, bills and death are the first thoughts that pop to mind. It is not uncommon that many people find a hard time dealing with these daily life stressors, and at times will find themselves losing control over their lives. Simone Jennifer Smith’s great passion is using the gifts that have been given to her, to help educate her clients on how to live meaningful lives. The Hear to Help Team consists of powerfully motivated individuals, who like Simone, see that there is a need in this world; a need for real connection. As the founder and Director of Hear 2 Help, Simone leads a team that goes out into the community day to day, servicing families with their educational, legal and mental health needs.Her dedication shows in her Toronto Caribbean newspaper articles, and in her role as a host on the TCN TV Network.

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Community News

Toronto Caribbean Newspaper visits the RIU Aquarelle Jamaica: This is going to be one hell of a ride!

Published

2 days ago

on

December 1, 2024

By

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

I was sitting at my desk, with a look of pure excitement on my face. I looked at the email on the screen and read it aloud. “Jamaica, here we come! Again!” I let out a hearty laugh. I still can’t believe it. Another trip to Jamaica, the land of sun, sea, and endless joy. But this time, it’s different. This time, I’m not just a tourist. I’m representing the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper, and we had been invited to experience something truly extraordinary.

Imagine this: one of the most beautiful places on earth, and one of the most luxurious hotel chains in the world. It was like a dream come true. At that point, I leaned back in my chair, a wide grin spread across your face.

In the coming weeks, I’ll be sharing firsthand experiences of RIU’s impactful work in Jamaica. You’ll get a glimpse into the remarkable offerings of RIU Aquarelle, from its luxurious accommodations to its vibrant entertainment. Together, we’ll embark on a journey to the Orthopaedic Clinic in Negril, unwind at the Ritz Cafe, savour a delectable lunch at RIU Palace Tropical Bay, explore the wonders of the Montego Bay Marine Park, connect with the passionate team at the Jamaica Tourist Board, and dance the night away at an exhilarating White Party.

Before we dive into these exciting adventures, I’d like to introduce you to the incredible travel team who will be accompanying me on this unforgettable trip: Ian Stalker, Karen Dahdah, Michael Schoenberger, Michelle Richmond, Peta-Gai Innerarity, Ronald Fanfair, Jorge Satorre (RIU Communication Team), Albert Puig (RIU Communication Director), and Janet Silvera (Jamaica PR Consultant).

What truly elevates a trip is the company you keep. I’m fortunate to say that this press trip was made exceptional by the incredible group I had the pleasure of working with. Whether we were playfully teasing each other, engaging in friendly banter, or orchestrating lighthearted pranks, the camaraderie and shared laughter were the heart of this adventure. It was the people who made this trip truly unforgettable.

Now, let’s introduce the organization that brought this incredible group together. RIU Hotels & Resorts (which has almost 100 hotels in 21 countries) is a hotel chain that was born in 1953 with a small hotel in Playa de Palma, Spain. Their more than 60 years of experience pampering their customers in the world’s best destinations attest to the mission of the company: the well-being of their guests.

RIU Hotels & Resorts is known for many things, including: its commitment to quality, its outstanding facilities in the best beach and city destinations and its wide variety of carefully prepared dining options, but above all, it is known for providing a personalized service from the heart. Their carefully designed facilities ensure that you have everything you need, and we have created a range of services to complement your stay with great food, fun and relaxation.

The company works day in and day out to continue offering the best facilities and exclusive services. All of them offer guaranteed quality and a standard of service that will make your holiday a one-of-a-kind experience. They are designed to give you the freedom to do, eat or drink whatever you want, whenever you want. Simply put, exactly how you like it.

The service at the RIU hotel was nothing short of exceptional. From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm smiles and efficient check-in. The staff were attentive, friendly, and always willing to go the extra mile to ensure our stay was unforgettable. The housekeeping was impeccable, the dining options were diverse and delicious, and the poolside service was prompt and courteous. The overall atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, making our vacation truly memorable.

I can’t wait to soak up the sun, feel the sand between my toes, and dive into the crystal-clear waters, but most importantly, I can’t wait to share this incredible experience with all of you. Stay tuned, folks. This is going to be one hell of a ride!

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Community News

“We need more Funding!” Toronto Caribbean Festival request $2 Million dollars from the Government of Canada

Published

2 days ago

on

December 1, 2024

By

BY PAUL JUNOR

The announcement that the Toronto Caribbean Festival will need more funding did not come as a surprise. CEO Mischka Crichton of the Festival Management Committee has reported that the festival may be cancelled next year if it does not receive two million in emergency funding to cover costs. In an email, she states, “Securing funding now is essential as we begin preparations for next year’s festival, including marketing, vendor and artist agreements, and material sourcing for bands and customs.”

“Budget allocations must be established well in advance to ensure that we can deliver the high-quality experience visitors expect. With inflation and production costs continuing to rise, timely financial support is crucial for sustaining the Carnival’s legacy and impact.”

In order to provide clarification about the funding, a petition was started at the website: www.torontocarnival.ca/petition. There is a pressing need of two million to cover expenses from the 2024 Carnival and $1.5 million from the federal and provincial governments to sustain it. Crichton raised the possibility that the festival may be cancelled entirely, or a few events if extra funding is not obtained. Crichton reinforced that it is important that the Toronto Caribbean Carnival is maintained as a non-profit organization. She notes, “The Carnival is a community-driven festival offering mostly free events that prioritize making sure our community can afford to attend the events we do charge for, as well as cultural enrichment.”

Dr. Jill Andrew, MPP of Toronto-St. Paul raised the issue of underfunding in the Ontario Legislature on October 28th, 2024, and asked Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario to step up and fulfill his promise to increase funding to the festival. There is still no firm commitment.

The petition states, “We, the undersigned, call upon the City of Toronto, the Government of Ontario and the Government of Canada to provide the Toronto Caribbean Carnival with the financial support it deserves, in recognition of its cultural, economic and social impact.”  The petition outlines the significance of this festival to Canada. It notes, “For over 50 years (since 1967, the Toronto Caribbean Carnival has been a key cultural event in the city and country, attracting millions of visitors and contributing significantly to the Canadian economy. This festival not only celebrates the heritage and creativity of Caribbean people, it also celebrates what is uniquely Canadian by fostering inclusivity, cultural diversity, and economic opportunities for: small businesses, entrepreneurs, and families.”

The petition requests three things:

  • Immediate Emergency Funding of two million to cover the operational costs from the 2024 Carnival. Despite the incredible efforts of the executive team to reduce costs by 10% in both 2023 and 2024, the carnival still faces a financial shortfall. The Carnival costs over three million to produce annually yet receives less than one million from the three levels of government.
  • Annual Funding of $1.5 million from the Government of Ontario and the Government of Canada to support the core operations of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, ensuring its sustainability and continued growth as a National Cultural Institution.
  • Funding for a Cultural Centre dedicated to preserving and promoting the Caribbean heritage in Toronto. This center would serve as a hub for education, cultural programming, and community events year-round, benefiting both the diaspora and the wider Canadian community.

The petition lists five reasons why it is important to sign the petition:

Economic Impact:

The Toronto Caribbean Carnival generates over $400 million annually for the Ontario economy, supporting thousands of jobs and hundreds of small businesses. The majority of these businesses are: Black, Brown, or Caribbean owned, making this event vital to the economic well-being of racialized communities.

Tourism and Visibility:

The Carnival brings in over two million visitors each year, making it the largest cultural event in Canada. With government support, we can elevate the Carnival’s international standing and attract even more visitors.

Representation and Inclusion:

Carnival is more than just a celebration. It stems from our emancipation and freedom from slavery and indentureship. It’s a powerful symbol of what our community can achieve. The event offers a platform to showcase Caribbean culture, while also standing as a beacon of inclusion, diversity, and respect. Government funding is not just financial support – it’s an acknowledgement of the value and contribution of Caribbean culture in Canada.

Financial Prudence:

Over the past two years, the executive team has demonstrated extraordinary financial responsibility, reducing the festival’s costs by 10% in both 2023 and 2024. This frugality highlights the sacrifices made by the team and community, showcasing that the Carnival has done something extraordinary with the limited resources it receives.

Cultural Legacy:

We are asking for support not just for an event, but for an ecosystem of creativity, entrepreneurship, and cultural preservation. The Toronto Caribbean Carnival is a lifeline for many who depend on its success.

The petition concludes by noting why it is important that it be signed. “You are helping ensure that the Toronto Caribbean Carnival continues to thrive, benefiting not only the local community, but all of Canada. Let’s make sure that future generations continue to experience the: magic, culture, and impact of the Toronto Caribbean Carnival.”

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Community News

Children are not Democrats, or Republicans; they are kids, and their well-being must be our focus

Published

2 days ago

on

December 1, 2024

By

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

In a world where trust in governance is waning, it’s refreshing to see individuals who genuinely care about the well-being of their communities. While many politicians make empty promises and cater to the elite, there are those who are committed to making a real difference in people’s lives. Today, we’ll delve into the story of a man who is determined to improve the health of his nation, even as a new administration takes the reins.

On April 19th, 2023, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. took leave from Children’s Health Defense (CHD) to run for president as a Democrat. About six months later, he switched gears to run as an independent. Then, on August 23rd, 2024 of this year, Kennedy, the longtime Democrat, suspended his campaign — and in a move that perhaps even he didn’t see coming — he endorsed former President Donald Trump.

Through it all, Kennedy remained true to his commitment: to end the chronic disease epidemic. He never wavered. For perhaps the first time in history, Kennedy gave children a voice in a national election. He reminded everyone that children are not Democrats, or Republicans. They’re kids. They’re “Swimming around in a toxic soup, and they need our help.”

RFK’s family have been harshly critical of him and view his switch over to the Republicans as a betrayal, including when he shared the unfounded claim that COVID-19 was “Ethnically targeted.” “Bobby might share the same name as our father, but he does not share the same values, vision or judgment,” shared Rory Kennedy (the youngest of RFK Sr. and Ethel Kennedy’s 11 children) in a statement when RFK Jr. announced his intention to run as an independent presidential candidate.

Despite familial differences of opinion, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s resolute dedication to public health remains steadfast. His tireless efforts are centered on safeguarding the health of our nation’s most vulnerable citizens: our children.

With Trump’s support, Kennedy and his team launched the Make America Healthy Again campaign, where he vowed to do whatever it takes to get toxic chemicals out of our: food, our soil, our water and our air. He has also promised to take on the: FDA, CDC, HHS, NIH, NIAID, USDA, EPA, FCC — and any other federal agency that puts corporate profits ahead of public health.

Perhaps most importantly, Kennedy promised to get to the bottom of why 1 in 33 children in this country has autism. During the election, a member of Trump’s transition team — said that one of his first jobs, if Trump were elected, would be to gain access to the CDC’s vaccine safety data so his team can analyze it to determine if vaccines are as safe as the FDA and CDC say they are.

As we witness his efforts unfold, we can only hope that his actions will align with his words.

REFERENCES:

https://apnews.com/article/rfk-jr-trump-vaccines-779495533a80ba142086a9621d75a59c

https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/trump-harris-election-day-results-2024/card/u-s-food-industry-frets-over-trump-s-rfk-jr-embrace-VJx6J2SQ4w7qZz2xXHZN

https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-has-plan-make-americas-children-healthy-again-its-good-one-opinion-1957026

https://thehill.com/homenews/campaign/4968959-rfk-jr-trump-white-house/

https://childrenshealthdefense.org/defender_category/agency-capture/

With RFK Jr. Poised to Assume Key Role in Public Health, Kids Could Finally Have an Ally in Washington

[Home] Home 2023

RFK Jr. Launches Presidential Campaign, Vows to Reduce Chronic Disease in Children

It’s Official: RFK Jr. Running for President as Independent

Breaking: RFK Jr. Suspends Presidential Campaign, Will Join Forces With Trump to ‘Save Millions of Children’

 

 

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