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Michael Lawley, Executive Director, Muskoka Tourism Marketing Association (MTMA), presented a plan for the creation of a new Regional Tourism Organization (RTO) to the District of Muskoka Planning and Economic Development Committee on March 4^th as part of MTMA’s quarterly update on activities. In December 2009, the Ministry of Tourism unveiled 13 new regions encompassing the entire Province with a view to distributing program funding at a local level. As part of District 12, Muskoka has been placed with the District of Parry Sound, Algonquin Park, the Township of Algonquin Highlands and the Township of South Algonquin, creating a region with historic ties and mutual interests. Acting on a request by the Province, and in consort with its regional counterparts, MTMA has submitted a plan to the Ministry of Tourism that would see a new RTO created comprised of local stakeholders who would be responsible for establishing regional tourism goals in harmony with Provincial objectives as well as funding local organizations and programs that support these goals.

“The new RTO will be a funding mechanism put in place by the government to ensure local and regional programs that are enhancing tourism have access to financial support. We have not been told the dollar amount which will flow to the region; however, we do expect it to be a significant investment in local tourism that will lead to many positive outcomes. The RTO will be a significant complement to our current local tourism marketing organizations,” said MTMA Board Co-Chair Joseph Klein.

The Ministry of Tourism is expected to make a decision regarding the proposal in the near future, and if successful it is hoped the new organization will be established by July 1.

The Haliburton Highlands Land Trust (HHLT) invites you to nominate Enviro-Heroes to be honoured at their Gala Celebration of Environmental Excellence on the evening of Friday, May 28, 2010 at the Minden Hills Community Centre. An Enviro-Hero has made a major contribution to the protection and sustainability of our natural resources and environment through education, stewardship, healthy living, “green” business or the arts in Haliburton County.  An Enviro-Hero may be an individual, business, or organization.  A distinguished panel will select the winners in each of six categories.  The winners will receive an award specially designed by renowned artist, Mary Anne Barkhouse, a past member of HHLT’s Board of Directors. Nominations must be submitted by Friday, April 2, 2010. 

Enviro-Hero Categories

1. Health - a person or organization whose environmental activities promote, exemplify or result in healthy lifestyles.  (Past award winners: Margaret & Peter Brogden and Rosie Kadwell)

2. Stewardship – a person, landowner or organization that has provided leadership in conserving and protecting our water, forests, flora, fauna or mineral resources.  (Past award winners:  Ed Poropat and Donald Benson)

3. Education - a person or organization that has effectively organized and delivered environmental education opportunities for children, youth, or adults.  (Past award winners:  Jim McHardy and Chris Magwood)

4. Business - a business or non-profit organization that has excelled in developing “green” business practices and/or providing “green” products/services that protect the environment.  (Past award winners:  Haliburton Forest & Wildlife Reserve Ltd and Glenside Ecological Services   

5. The Arts – an artist who has produced a body of work that celebrates our natural environment.  (Past award winners:  John Lennard and Wendy Bateman)

6.  Youth – a student up to 18 years of age who has demonstrated a commitment to the protection and sustainability of our natural resources and environment through education, stewardship, healthy living, or the arts.   (Past award winner:  Kyla Suchovs)

Nomination Forms are available at www.haliburtonlandtrust.ca

Local MP Barry Devolin, on behalf of the Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, today announced a total of $74,000 for two separate projects which will expand opportunities for people with disabilities and improve accessibility. Kawartha Region Conservation Authority will receive $41,500 to install a ramp and automatic doors to their head office in Lindsay while the Township of Algonquin Highlands will use $32,500 to build a wheelchair platform lift at the Dorset Recreation Centre.“Our government is supporting people with disabilities and their families,” said Devolin. “Through the Enabling Accessibility Fund, these projects will help people with disabilities by improving access to local facilities, activities and services.” This project is one of 169 projects announced by Minister Finley this year.  The three-year, $45-million Enabling Accessibility Fund is part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to address the needs of people with disabilities and help them reach their full potential.  

The Highland Storm has 2 teams in Semi-final playoffs  and both teams were in action over the weekend. The Atom A’s were in Delhi, but the unfamiliar surrounding were no problem as they won both games 6-1 and 6-3, they will look to close things out this Friday 7:30 in Minden. The Atom AE’s were a little closer to home battling Lakefield. On Friday the Storm won 7-4, then back home in Minden on Saturday winning a nailbiter 4-3. Lakefield refused to go out 3 straight winning back home on Sunday 4-2. Game 4 goes Friday night at 6pm in Minden,