Welcome to Mainstreets Association of Almonte and Pakenham

2010-01-01T17:11:54Z

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Events and Initiatives
What MAAP Does
The Main Street Approach
MAAP Committees
Opportunities with MAAP
Downtown Almonte
Downtown Pakenham
Community Links & Partners
Contact MAAP

MILL STREET MONEY
–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

What's New and Happening with MAAP

Almonte's burgeoning downtown business community featured in the National Capital Scan

The most recent issue of National Capital SCAN, Ottawa's excellent tech business newspaper of record, has a feature on Almonte and its burgeoning business community. Read the full article here.

Almonte and MAAP featured in the Ottawa Business Journal

Reporter Julie Fortier interviewed MAAP chair Elizabeth Swarbrick for her article "Small Biz Growth Helps Almonte Keep Its Soul" in the May 14 issue of the Ottawa Business Journal. Read the full article here.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

About MAAP
As two hidden gems of Eastern Ontario, Almonte and Pakenham have unique, historic downtowns with different strengths and attractions. MAAP is committed to downtown renewal using the Main Street Approach to revitalization. This exciting initiative allows these wards within the Town of Mississippi Mills access to support and resources aimed at creating vibrant, active central commercial districts and promoting both downtowns as great places to shop, work and live. The key to the Main Street/MAAP approach is revitalization from the grassroots up, engaging ordinary citizens, business owners, retailers, service and church groups, community organizations, arts and cultural groups, and local government in developing systemic solutions to create a healthy mix of businesses and residents in our downtown sectors.

MAAP Encourages Long-term Vision
MAAP is part of the Mississippi Mills Chamber of Commerce, and has been inspired by Main Street Middlesex. Middlesex has eleven downtown communities (ranging from 800 residents to 10,000-plus) involved in this process in south-western Ontario. All are building prosperity with new programs such as:

Matching loans for facade restoration
Image and brand development grants
Retail promotion grants
Streetscape beautification grants
Business attraction/retention grants and programs
Festivals and events grants

Visit the Web sites of a sample of other revitalized downtowns: Amherst OH, Muskegon MI and London ON.

MAAP believes that community-driven vision led by downtown stakeholders’ efforts is essential to the successful revitalization of Almonte and Pakenham’s downtowns. MAAP encourages long term vision and incremental steps to success for downtown revitalization programs and main street vitality. Revitalization does not occur with quick fixes and short-cuts. MAAP’s focus is a comprehensive program in order to keep main street properties occupied with prospering businesses. MAAP is harnessing the energy and efforts of local business people and other volunteers to make revitalization happen. Explore this Web site, get to know MAAP and join the effort! There are plenty of opportunities to help build our downtowns with MAAP.

Think You Know Downtown Almonte and Pakenham?
The downtowns of Pakenham and Almonte share similar heritage. Both downtown areas are located on the banks of Ontario’s scenic Mississippi River and both towns are part of the amalgamated Town of Mississippi Mills, Pakenham and Almonte are the Town’s commercial hubs and cultural centres. The creative, entrepreneurial and eclectic individuals working in these centres create a spirit of enthusiastic vitality and energy. The commercial mix in both Almonte and Pakenham reflect the variety of people who work there – retail, arts and crafts schools, design houses and studios, life sciences firms, fine-dining establishments, high-tech enterprises, recreational services, and knowledge-based businesses are all found within the two downtowns of Mississippi Mills.

The historic limestone Mill buildings within each downtown are vital to the redevelopment and heritage-centric vision of each community. As part of the Ottawa Valley’s Lanark County, they share remarkable natural landscapes. MAAP is committed to highlighting the natural beauty, architectural heritage, existing businesses and tourism potential to attract a growing mix of inhabitants and complimentary businesses to the downtowns.

Home Events and Initiatives About MAAP The Main Street Approach Opportunities with MAAP

Downtown Almonte Downtown Pakenham Community Links & Partners Contact MAAP

Valley_Heartland

MAAP's Web site produced by market2world communications inc. of Almonte, Ontario

ellentesque vestibulum molestie mauris. Phasellus placerat nibh nec ante. Suspendisse pharetra, urna nec vulputate iaculis, erat metus eleifend lectus, et elementum diam dolor vitae odio. Donec ornare tristique ante. Duis ac ligula non lacus pretium pellentesque. Nullam vestibulum, justo sed faucibus cursus, justo massa sagittis erat, id bibendum justo orci sit amet turpis. Pellentesque ut augue sit amet nisi accumsan ornare. Aliquam magna velit, commodo et, cursus adipiscing, egestas et, nunc. Pellentesque sed mauris. Proin et nisl. Suspendisse sodales, sem viverra egestas nonummy, risus nulla bibendum sem, id pretium dui mi at dolor. In interdum pede eget sem.

Ut nec mi. Morbi urna dui, iaculis id, porttitor et, aliquam in, purus. Etiam in est nec felis porta porta. Quisque dolor leo, hendrerit non, pharetra mollis, consequat ac, enim. Quisque nibh. Curabitur vel lorem ac nulla dapibus mattis. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Fusce enim felis, aliquet sit amet, aliquet a, eleifend eget, eros. Nulla eget metus. Cras faucibus. Nullam lectus turpis, ultricies aliquet, scelerisque non, ornare in, lorem. Nulla facilisi. Sed lacinia scelerisque eros. Aliquam elit purus, porttitor in, lacinia non, placerat eu, erat.

Aliquam ullamcorper laoreet justo. Pellentesque tincidunt. Curabitur sed dui at velit viverra mattis. Nam ut nisl. Sed dictum sodales diam. Pellentesque massa mauris, vehicula non, ornare at, lobortis ac, nibh. Phasellus elementum interdum elit. Nam lectus felis, posuere in, euismod ut, tincidunt sit amet, elit. Pellentesque vestibulum molestie mauris. Phasellus placerat nibh nec ante. Suspendisse pharetra, urna nec vulputate iaculis, erat metus eleifend lectus, et elementum diam dolor vitae odio. Donec ornare tristique ante. Duis ac ligula non lacus pretium pellentesque. Nullam vestibulum, justo sed faucibus cursus, justo massa sagittis erat, id bibendum justo orci sit amet turpis. Pellentesque ut augue sit amet nisi accumsan ornare. Aliquam magna velit, commodo et, cursus adipiscing, egestas et, nunc. Pellentesque sed mauris. Proin et nisl. Suspendisse sodales, sem viverra egestas nonummy, risus nulla bibendum sem, id pretium dui mi at dolor. In interdum pede eget sem.

Ut nec mi. Morbi urna dui, iaculis id, porttitor et, aliquam in, purus. Etiam in est nec felis porta porta. Quisque dolor leo, hendrerit non, pharetra mollis, consequat ac, enim. Quisque nibh. Curabitur vel lorem ac nulla dapibus mattis. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetuer adipiscing elit. Fusce enim felis, aliquet sit amet, aliquet a, eleifendsit amet nisi accumsan ornare. Aliquam magna velit, commodo et, cursus adipiscing, egestas et, nunc. Pellentesque sed mauris. Proin et nisl. Suspendisse sodales, sem viverra egestas nonummy, risus nulla bibendum sem, id pretium dui mi at dolor. In interdum pede eget sem.

sit amet nisi accumsan ornare. Aliquam magna velit, commodo et, cursus adipiscing, egestas et, nunc. Pellentesque sed mauris. Proin et nisl. Suspendisse sodales, sem viverra egestas nonummy, risus nulla bibendum sem, id pretium dui mi at dolor. In interdum pede eget sem.

Send to a friend

Promo-Org Minutes - January 4, 2008

2008-01-11T00:11:17Z

Present: Rona Fraser, Chris O’Brien, Kris Riendeau, Noreen Young

Recommended reading for the MAAP Executive:

All

Recommended reading for other MAAP committees:

All

Minutes - Org

1. Org: Web Presence

1.1. We believe the web is and should be the primary communication tool.

1.2. We propose that committee and sub-committee chairs should be responsible for updating their sections of the MAAP blog. That does not mean the chairs themselves need to do the updating, but they would be responsible for someone getting it done.

1.3. Free WiFi on Mill Street would help us keep the site up-to-date. (Well, it couldn’t hurt…)

1.4. Chris recommends that we grab www.downtownalmonte.com as a domain name and then have a long-term plan for a comprehensive visitor-friendly events-full site.

2. Org: MAAP Executive (the top 3 positions)

We propose the following, to be considered by the MAAP Executive:

2.1. We should have an AGM in April (as it is a not-so-busy time of year) to bring all of MAAP together, review our progress, and have an election of Executive members (and we are happy for them to re-up) and confirmation of the Chairs.

2.2. Organization of the AGM should be done by the Executive.

2.3. Note: We believe that the Almonte and Pakenham heads should be the public face of MAAP-Almonte and MAAP-Pakenham, and be the Chair of their 4 sub-committee chairs.

3. Org: Sub-Committee Chairs and Members

We propose the following, to be considered by the MAAP Executive:

3.1. New sub-committee chairs should be selected by their own sub-committee, for a 1-year term. They do not necessarily have to be active on a committee beforehand.

3.2. Each sub-committee should be encouraged to meet frequently (bi-monthly at the least), to be more effective. If the committee members cannot meet that often, then perhaps some should just be consultants and the core can meet more frequently.

4. Org: What constitutes a ‘MAAP activity’ or ‘MAAP-sponsored activity’

4.1. A MAAP activity is one organized and funded directly by MAAP.

4.2. A MAAP-sponsored activity is organized by another group or individual, but given money and/or support by MAAP and able to use the MAAP logo.

5. Org: How does an activity become approved as a MAAP or MAAP-sponsored activity

5.1. Firstly, we do not believe we should give money to any outside initiatives until we have enough funds for our own.

5.2. In order to be approved or sponsored by MAAP, an activity would have to be championed by a MAAP sub-committee with full approval, then brought to the MAAP Exec+Chairs for approval. This also means no 1-day turnaround on requests.

5.3. Determining the possible levels of support is to be brought forward.

Minutes - Promo

6. Promo: Mill Street Money

6.1. Sales: approx $10,500 sold to date. Rona to get blank receipts to Chamber.

6.2. Publicity – Gazette printed the letter with the $5,000 amount.

6.3. Communication with retailers

6.3.1. We will be sending out a January newsletter detailing results of MSM to date.

7. Promo: Downtown Almonte party being planned for Jan 21/08 [note: we have since changed our plans].

Next Meeting: Friday, January 11, 2008 – 9am - The Groundz

Send to a friend

MILL STREET MONEY gift certificates

2007-11-02T19:41:23Z

On sale mid-November 2007, at The Ironworks and Fitzgeralds.

Can be spent, like money, at most of the businesses in Downtown Almonte (a list will be posted soon).

No expiry date.

$5, $10, $25, $50 denominations.

Give them the gift you know they will enjoy, whether it is spent on clothing, jewellery, dining, legal fees, or beer.

More info to come...

Send to a friend

MAAP Promo delivers first newsletter to local businesses

2007-10-26T12:46:19Z

Newsletter Oct 07

Send to a friend

Promo Minutes - September 21, 2007

2007-09-24T02:36:18Z

Present: Nick Diak, Rona Fraser, Chris O’Brien, Noreen Young

Recommended reading for the MAAP Executive:

2 to 4

Recommended reading for other MAAP committees:

2 to 4

Minutes

1. Promotion Committee structure changes since last meeting

1.1. Chris O’Brien has consented to join our committee.

1.2. Rona has spoken to 2 shop owners (recommended by Ruth-Ann) about joining. They are both thinking about it.

1.3. Kelmany Ross has resigned as Chair and Rona accepted the position.

2. Ideas from Chris, discussed by group

2.1. Subsidization of group advertising: we could start an initiative that when 5 or more businesses go in together on an ad, we could pay 40%.

2.2. Podcast walking tours: With the help of Michael Dunn, Vicki Veenstra, Rob Riendeau, etc, we would have 10 different walking tours, mainly audio with some maps and architectural photos, for an i-Pod, which you could borrow from Miller’s Tale or the Chamber…

2.3. Signs in empty shops: We would talk the owners of empty shop buildings into letting us post signs (which they would hopefully pay for), which would perhaps have the puppet likeness of a shop owner with a bubble saying something like “Hey, ever thought of opening a business right here? Come and talk to ______ [puppet likeness] at ________ [shop] and that shop owner would have information on that empty location. This would increase talk, put the concept of actually owning a shop more clearly in the people’s minds, increase business traffic into the knowledgeable shops, etc. Perhaps we could even have a bit of art in there, as long as it doesn’t make the shop look ‘occupied’, which is apparently a worry of some of the shop owners.

2.4. Delivery stickers: We could create stickers promoting downtown, which we would supply to all of the downtown businesses that deliver, eg. ‘Downtown Almonte – We deliver’.

2.5. Quick signs for drive-by traffic: quick cheap signs (like the one outside the Arena), on the road to CP etc, to remind people to SHOP LOCALLY.

2.6. Signs on our 2 bridges stating “You are now entering Downtown Almonte”.

2.7. Colour flyer of the downtown: to have at events, in shops, in welcome baskets for new residents… with info on downtown businesses, upcoming events.

2.8. We should keep a media archive of publicity found of all Downtown Almonte businesses.

2.8.1. Note: Exec Committee suggested we could let all committees know and have a media log on the MAAP website…

3. What is of concern to Downtown Almonte

3.1. Local shops are concerned about the WalMart to open soon in CP.

4. Questions for the MAAP Executive

4.1. Who is responsible for designing the logo?

4.1.1. Answer: The MAAP Exec is in the process of finalizing a design for a MAAP logo (ie, one that will be used to denote things sponsored by MAAP). There is no Downtown Almonte logo in the works, though they said we should check out the old logo (BIA?) that is apparently displayed in Baker Bob’s somewhere. They said that Promo could work on it. So let the ideas flow.

5. Homework

5.1. Chris - to write up details for podcast idea to present to Promo next meeting.

5.2. Everyone – give thought to a Downtown Almonte logo.

5.3. Next meeting: Friday, September 28/07 – Groundz – 9am [Note: meetings will be every Friday morning for the time being.]

------ The following are notes from previous meetings, that we may need to keep in mind. ------

1. The role of the Promotion Committee

1.1. We see our purpose as:

v Promoting Downtown Almonte to itself.

By informing the Downtown about all of its businesses and upcoming events, we become a more informed and cohesive force, easily able to promote our neighbours to customers, friends, etc. and to combine our forces.

v Promoting the Downtown Almonte experience to the world.

By developing a system to get information out to Mississippi Mills, Ottawa, and beyond, we will share with the world the many reasons to visit, stay, and fall in love with Downtown Almonte. We aim to reach shoppers, diners, new businesses, new residents, and, well, anyone with money or at least a smile.

v Supporting Downtown Almonte businesses and events.

We endeavor to have all downtown businesses and events, new and established, feel promoted, heard, supported and an important part of the Downtown Almonte community.

2. Our ‘Top 3 Priorities’ and then some:

2.1. Create and maintain a newsletter/calendar.

This would contain information about Downtown Almonte businesses, happenings, and upcoming events. Our objectives are: to create promotion opportunities by informing businesses of upcoming events they may want to support or incorporate into their promotion or stocking (eg stocking marionettes during Puppets Up!, Celtic tablecloths during the Highland Games and Celtfest); to foster community by introducing ourselves to ourselves; to raise awareness so that we can promote our town through our awareness. To accomplish this, we will need to:

2.1.1. Find volunteers to help us obtain and compile info.

2.1.2. Complete an initial survey of the Downtown Almonte businesses in order to introduce people to MAAP Promo and obtain contact info, business info, etc. As the Economic Restructuring Committee has also mentioned wanting to do a survey, though possibly not one of their top priorities, we must discuss this. The Chamber of Commerce may also be able to help with information.

2.1.3. Compile a comprehensive list of events that could impact the downtown. Mississippi Mills has a list. The Humm as well. We could compile the appropriate events from there and add others, perhaps obtained from sports/recreational groups, churches, etc.

2.1.4. Create a newsletter template.

2.1.5. Write and distribute newsletter.

2.2. Send out regular press releases regarding Downtown Almonte.

2.2.1. Create a media list, contact list, interested parties, etc.

2.2.2. Determine scope and presentation of press releases. Possible rules could be: must be proofread by the business/group involved, must have Downtown Almonte as a constant in the background, must mention Downtown Almonte: The Art of Living or Basketball or whatever, etc.).

2.2.3. Have local businesses etc send us info.

2.2.4. Write and distribute.

2.3. Use our resources to assist in promoting upcoming local events.

2.4. Create a flyer promoting Downtown Almonte.

2.4.1. This is very much in the early discussion stages. Possible ideas for the flyer include: simply incorporating a Downtown Almonte section in the Mississippi Mills flyer; having a comprehensive list of things to do (places to shop, dine, enjoy nature, enjoy art, enjoy festivals); something similar to a mall directory (listing by women’s clothing, restaurants, etc), possibly with store hours, tel no, etc.

3. Ideas :

3.1. Regular articles & ads in local papers, focused on Downtown Almonte.

3.2. Organizing cross-promotion of businesses/events. When people come for one event (eg Busfusion), they should find info for local businesses, other events…

3.3. Christmas Shopping in Downtown Almonte – flyer or ad. Similar to what the Humm does, but Downtown Almonte only, listing suggested presents by category (eg babies, teens, golfers, cooks,…) along with price and shop.

3.4. Coupons/flyers at restaurants to promote local businesses (as people come for food and then don’t know what else to do). Could be 4-5 businesses on each coupon…

3.5. Store coupons.

Send to a friend

Promo Minutes - June 19, 2007

2007-09-09T20:15:47Z

Present: Rona Fraser, Kelmany Ross

Recommended reading for the MAAP Executive:

All

Recommended reading for other MAAP committees:

EconoRest – 4.1.1

Minutes

1. Promotion Committee structure

1.1. Chair: We are uncertain whether Marc Lefebvre wants to give up the position of Chair for good or for the summer, so Kelmany has volunteered to be Chair for the next 6 months.

2. Review of notes from Executive meeting

2.1. Minutes format proposed by Organization Committee will be adopted.

2.2. Suggested promotion ideas were added to the list of our brainstormed ideas for Promotion Committee objectives.

3. The role of the Promotion Committee

3.1. We see our purpose as:

v Promoting Downtown Almonte to itself.

v Promoting the Downtown Almonte experience to the world.

v Supporting Downtown Almonte businesses and events.

We endeavor to have all downtown businesses and events, new and established, feel promoted, heard, supported and an important part of the Downtown Almonte community.

4. Our ‘Top 3 Priorities’ and then some:

4.1. Create and maintain a newsletter/calendar.

4.1.1. Find volunteers to help us obtain and compile info.

4.1.2. Complete an initial survey of the Downtown Almonte businesses in order to introduce people to MAAP Promo and obtain contact info, business info, etc. As the Economic Restructuring Committee has also mentioned wanting to do a survey, though possibly not one of their top priorities, we must discuss this. The Chamber of Commerce may also be able to help with information.

4.1.3. Compile a comprehensive list of events that could impact the downtown. Mississippi Mills has a list. The Humm as well. We could compile the appropriate events from there and add others, perhaps obtained from sports/recreational groups, churches, etc.

4.1.4. Create a newsletter template.

4.1.5. Write and distribute newsletter.

4.2. Send out regular press releases regarding Downtown Almonte.

4.2.1. Create a media list, contact list, interested parties, etc.

4.2.2. Determine scope and presentation of press releases. Possible rules could be: must be proofread by the business/group involved, must have Downtown Almonte as a constant in the background, must mention Downtown Almonte: The Art of Living or Basketball or whatever, etc.).

4.2.3. Have local businesses etc send us info.

4.2.4. Write and distribute.

4.3. Use our resources to assist in promoting upcoming local events, eg.

4.3.1. Stanley Cup (possible event where local kids get to see it, possibly incorporate celebration into Puppets Up! parade).

4.3.2. Puppets Up!

4.3.3. Naismith Statue unveiling

4.4. Create a flyer promoting Downtown Almonte.

4.5. This is very much in the early discussion stages. Possible ideas for the flyer include: simply incorporating a Downtown Almonte section in the Mississippi Mills flyer; having a comprehensive list of things to do (places to shop, dine, enjoy nature, enjoy art, enjoy festivals); something similar to a mall directory (listing by women’s clothing, restaurants, etc), possibly with store hours, tel no, etc.

5. Brainstormed priorities that we have chosen not to pursue at this time:

5.1. Regular articles & ads in local papers, focused on Downtown Almonte.

5.2. Organizing cross-promotion of businesses/events. When people come for one event (eg Busfusion), they should find info for local businesses, other events…

5.3. Christmas Shopping in Downtown Almonte – flyer or ad. Similar to what the Humm does, but Downtown Almonte only, listing suggested presents by category (eg babies, teens, golfers, cooks,…) along with price and shop.

5.4. Coupons/flyers at restaurants to promote local businesses (as people come for food and then don’t know what else to do). Could be 4-5 businesses on each coupon…

5.5. Store coupons.

Send to a friend

The Promotion Committee

2007-06-19T20:19:06Z

What We Do
Those volunteering with the Promotion Committee deal with image, retail promotion, marketing the downtown and special events. Promotion sells a positive image of the commercial district and encourages consumers and investors to live, work, shop, play and invest in the Main Street district. By marketing a district's unique characteristics to residents, investors, business owners, and visitors, an effective promotional strategy forges a positive image through advertising, retail promotional activity, special events, and marketing campaigns carried out by local volunteers. These activities improve consumer and investor confidence in the district and encourage commercial activity and investment in the area.

Click here to contact MAAP about volunteer opportunities with the Promotion Committee.

Committee Members

Rona Fraser, lead
Noreen Young
Nick Diak
Chris O'Brien
Tammy Connors
Emily Arbour Weir

Meeting Minutes

Promo-Org January 4, 2008

September 21, 2007

June 19, 2007

Send to a friend

Events and Initiatives

2007-03-08T19:02:10Z

Read about MAAP in the Ottawa Business Journal

What’s New and Happening with MAAP

Paradise in Penturbia: Almonte, Ontario, Offers an Antidote to What Ails Suburbia with Focused Downtown Economic Revitalization
April 21, 2007

Almonte will be displaying the success of its revitalization efforts on Saturday April 21st with a day-long celebration emceed by puppeteers and puppets from the Puppets Up! International Puppets Festival who will introduce owners of several new businesses and heritage redevelopment projects, with Mississippi Mills Mayor, Al Lunney, officiating. The day’s events will conclude with “Jazz it Up!” a downtown redevelopment event featuring great food, companionship and music at three downtown Almonte venues.

Read the full press release here.

For more information contact:

Peter Egan
Mississippi Mills Chamber of Commerce
www.mississippimills.com
P: 613.850.7438

Jazz It Up!
April 21, 2007

Jazz it up! Includes a jazz crawl, a progressive dinner in downtown Almonte and a wrap-up party at a secret destination that will be loads of fun! Venues: The Ironworks, Fitzgerald’s and The Postmaster’s Pub. The evening begins with a quick information package pick-up at the Chamber of Commerce at 5:30 PM. Jazz it up! is the first MAAP grassroots fundraising initiative founded and organized by Kelmany Ross, local business owner of Add Pizzazz Creative Event Design. You can read more about the event here.

General Information
120 tickets for sale at $60/person
For more information contact:
Kelmany Ross
613 256 9905

Almonte Marketing Firm Gets National Coverage on CTV
March 27, 2007, 8-8:30 pm

The creatively-driven team at Almonte’s market2world communications inc., a proud downtown product launch and public relations agency with clients around the globe, were profiled on "workopolis tv" on the Broadcast News Network (formerly Report On Business Television). The profile is as much a tour of Almonte's fabulous downtown lifestyle and architecture as it is about the company. To view the show, just click here!

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Chamber of Commerce March Mixer and the Annual General Meeting
March 21, 2007, 6:30 pm

Location: Ironworks Pub, Almonte
The short portion of the evening will be a recap of this past year’s Chamber activity as well as a glimpse at 2007 and onwards. There will also be an opportunity for members to participate in nominations and elections for board members.

Information about this event is excerpted from:
The Mississippi Mills Chamber of Commerce e-newsletter — March 2007 – Vol 2, Issue 4
If you’d like your news, events and exciting announcements included in this newsletter, please forward the information before the last friday of each month to The Chamber Communications Group or call James at 613.256.0598.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Downtown Almonte Tech Businesses S4Potential and Triacta on OCRIRadio.com Podcast
March 20, 2007

Location: OCRIRadio.com
The Ottawa Centre for Research and Innovation (OCRI) offers a monthly tech business podcast that in March featured an interview with S4Potential's Bill Winogron and in February mentioned Triacta. The podcast is produced by another downtown Almonte knowledge-based business, market2world communications.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
Revitalization Ramp-Up
March 3, 2007, 9:30 am – 1 pm, Almonte Old Town Hall

Cara Finn, manager Main Street Middlesex (the organizational body for the revitalization programs of eleven communities in Middlesex County, southwestern Ontario), presents a training session on how to succeed with long term downtown revitalization using the Main Street Approach.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

MAAP Public Meetings in Almonte and Pakenham
Pakenham — Feb. 26 from 7:00 - 9:00 pm at the St. Andrew's Church Hall, Pakenham
Almonte — Feb. 28 from 7:00 - 9:00 pm at the United Church Sanctuary, Almonte

These public meetings will present information from focus and visioning group sessions that took place earlier in February and were facilitated by Denboer/Lang & Beyond Creativity Consulting, Arnprior ON.

You can read more about the meeting here.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

MAAP Releases Final Draft of the Denboer/Lang Focus Group and Branding Report
28 February 2007

You can download the report here.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

MAAP Offers Seminar to Put Local Businesses on the Internet Map with Free Web Sites
February 15, 2007, 6:30 to 8:30 pm, Almonte Old Town Hall

Internet experts from market2world communications inc., will lead this hands-on tutorial on VOX Web site and blogging software for building multimedia-enabled Web sites for zero cost.

You can read more about the meeting here.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Developing a Vision for Your Downtown From the Grassroots Up!
January 22, 2007

MAAP Focus Groups plus follow-up meetings during the last week of January 2007 in Pakenham and Almonte
With the help of Denboer/Lang and Beyond Creativity Consulting, the focus group participants will take part in an interactive discussion of what they see as important attributes of their downtowns.

You can read more about the meetings here.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

MAAP Request for Proposal for Brand Development and Web Design
December 1, 2006

MAAP requires a firm to develop a brand for each downtown (Almonte and Pakenham) that will be the guideline for a cohesive action plan going forward. The firm will also be asked to create a website for MAAP.

You can read more about the Request for Proposal here.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

MAAP Kick-off
October 28, 2006

A newly formed Main street Association of Almonte and Pakenham (MAAP) is launched at a public meeting held at 7:30 PM with the Mississippi Mills Chamber of Commerce at the Almonte Old Town Hall. MAAP’s foundation grew from Mississippi Mills Chamber of Commerce VP Peter Egan’s call to action, “Everybody who has a concern about the downtown cores of our community should be there to hear and be heard.”

You can read more about the meetings here.

–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

Almonte Heritage Redevelopment Group (RedAlmonte)
RedAlmonte is an informal association of individuals who share a commitment to the revitalization of Almonte’s historic downtown core. In the last ten years Almonte’s Mill Street has experienced a renewal. In the absence of conventional financing, over 75,000 square feet of space has been developed with initial funding through local “angel” lending. A further 50,000 square feet is currently in the planning stage.

To learn more about current space available for rent in downtown Almonte contact Stephen Brathwaite, (613) 256 9306) or visit RedAlmonte.

Home Events and Initiatives About MAAP The Main Street Approach Opportunities with MAAP
Downtown Almonte Downtown Pakenham Community Links & Partners Contact MAAP

a non, ornare at, lobortis ac, nibh. Phasellus elementum interdum elit. Nam lectus felis, posuere in, euismod ut, tincidunt sit amet, elit. Pellentesque vestibulum molestie mauris. Phasellus placerat nibh nec ante. Suspendisse pharetra, urna nec vulputate iaculis, erat metus eleifend lectus, et elementum diam dolor vitae odio. Donec ornare tristique ante. Duis ac ligula non lacus pretium pellentesque. Nullam vestibulum, justo sed faucibus cursus, justo massa sagittis erat, id bibendum justo orci sit amet turpis. Pellentesque ut augue sit amet nisi accumsan ornare. Aliquam magna velit, commodo et, cursus adipiscing, egestas et, nunc. Pellentesque sed mauris. Proin et nisl. Suspendisse sodales, sem viverra egestas nonummy, risus nulla bibendum sem, id pretium dui mi at dolor. In interdum pede eget sem.

Send to a friend

What MAAP Does

2007-03-07T21:10:40Z

Revitalize Our Downtowns!
MAAP is an exciting new program for downtown revitalization taking place right now in the wards of Almonte and Pakenham - two of three wards within the amalgamated Town of Mississippi Mills, Ontario. MAAP’s program is based on the Main Street Approach, which was developed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation in Washington, DC.

MAAP's Goals for Almonte and Pakenham
Through ongoing revitalization efforts, MAAP has set two specific goals:

250 people living within the geographically defined downtown area of Pakenham
1000 people living within the geographically defined downtown area of Almonte

When more people live there, more people work, shop and contribute to the vitality of Almonte and Pakenham downtowns.

MAAP is committed to downtown revitalization using the Main Street Approach. With funding support from partners including Valley Heartland Community Futures Development Corporation in Lanark County and the North Leeds Region and the Mississippi Mills Chamber of Commerce, This exciting initiative allows the two historic commercial downtown areas within Mississippi Mills access to supports and resources geared towards:

Creating vibrant, active commercial districts
Promoting Almonte and Pakenham as great places to shop and live
Enhancing the appearance and image of our historic downtowns
Encouraging development, redevelopment, restoration and preservation
Building community capacity and pride
Capitalizing on our downtowns’ inherent strengths – historic architecture, character, culture and charm

The key to these approaches is revitalization from the grassroots up, engaging ordinary citizens, business owners, retailers, service and church groups, community organizations, arts and cultural groups, and local government in developing systemic solutions to create a healthy mix of businesses and residents in the downtown sector.

To get involved, please contact MAAP and take a look at the Volunteer Opportunities available with MAAP.

Home Events and Initiatives About MAAP The Main Street Approach Opportunities with MAAP
Downtown Almonte Downtown Pakenham Community Links & Partners Contact MAAP

Send to a friend

The Main Street Approach

2007-03-06T20:00:34Z

Program Objectives
MAAP is an exciting new program for downtown revitalization taking place right now in the wards of Almonte and Pakenham, two of three wards within the amalgamated Town of Mississippi Mills, Ontario. MAAP’s program is based on the National Trust’s Main Street Approach.

MAAP Program Objectives Include:

250 people living within the geographically defined downtown area of Pakenham
1000 people living within the geographically defined downtown area of Almonte
Community capacity building in both downtowns
Business development and job creation in both areas
Creating vibrant, active commercial districts
Promoting Almonte and Pakenham as great places to shop and live
Enhancing the appearance and image of our historic downtowns
Encouraging development, redevelopment, restoration and preservation
Capitalizing on our downtowns’ inherent strengths – historic architecture, character, culture and charm

Why Are We Using the Main Street Approach?

It is a proven, successful program (with a focus on comprehensive downtown revitalization)
It builds on partnerships across County (strengthening relations between stakeholders/groups to ensure results)
It empowers volunteers (providing training and recognition, encouraging self-sufficiency)

Where We Started

Economic development strategic planning within our two downtowns
Mississippi Mills Chamber of Commerce Task Force (summer 2006)
Committed municipal visioning for our downtowns
Main Street resources
Funding grant from Valley Heartland of Lanark County
Initial training funds from the Town of Mississippi Mills

Where We Stand

Two participating, geographically, legally defined downtown areas
Downtowns within very close proximity to Ottawa — a blessing as well as a challenge
A Volunteer Steering Committee to initiate further MAAP working committees within the downtowns

Home Events and Initiatives About MAAP The Main Street Approach Opportunities with MAAP
Downtown Almonte Downtown Pakenham Community Links & Partners Contact MAAP

Send to a friend