The Preston Post Issue 6

October 02, 2009

Local News
On Tuesday, September 28th, Joe met with Caroline Hughes from Ford Canada to discuss the St. Thomas Ford Assembly Plant.  Since 2004, Joe has met regularly with Ford’s government relations representative. He had the opportunity to discuss issues brought forward at a prior meeting held with Local 1520 President Scott Smith, Chair Dennis McGee and Steve Peters, MPP.

Goodwill Industries celebrated their grand opening at their new location in St. Thomas on Friday, October 2nd.  Members of the community, staff and dignitaries took part in the official grand opening that will employ 35 individuals at the 2 locations.

Events
Joe on the Road was a huge success in Thorndale. Visitors had the  opportunity to discuss local, provincial and federal issues including rural postal delivery, student bussing and local events with Joe while other attendees had assistance with passport applications. Thank you to the Thorndale Public Library for their hospitality.
Joe will hit the road on October 15th at the Springfield Public Library from 4-7PM.

Students at Port Stanley Public School had a question and answer session with Joe on Monday, September 21st.  Students grade 4-8 had the opportunity to discuss the Harbour Divestiture, our Troops in Afghanistan along with current legislation while also learning the names of all Joe’s brothers and sisters. Thanks to Ms. Vance for organizing the event.

Government Happenings
Minister Gary Goodyear along side Minister Diane Finley, MP Joe Preston and several other Southern Ontario MP’s announced funding for the Southern Ontario Development Program (SODP).  A total of $100,000 was announced for 2009-2010 with $40 million available for this intake process. Applications to access funding will be accepted from October 2nd, 2009, to December 1, 2009.
For more information: http://southernontario.gc.ca/eic/site/723.nsf/eng/home

Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Finance Minister Jim Flaherty announced the return of Tim Hortons to Canada.  Joe Preston was on site for the announcement. “What is more Canadian than Tim Hortons?” said Preston, “Welcome home!!” For More details: http://www.joeprestonmp.ca/EN/3634/97789

On Monday, September 28th, Bill C-391 was debated in the House of Commons to repeal the Long Gun Registry.  Joe took part in the debate standing up for his local gun owners.  For more details: http://www.joeprestonmp.ca/EN/3634/98080

Calling all Pork Producers! Starting Monday, October 5, 2009, many financial institutions, including Farm Credit Canada, will be ready to work with pork producers to develop long -term business plans and deliver government-backed loans. Producers can check www.agr.gc.ca/HILLRP to find out which institutions are currently participating. http://www4.agr.gc.ca/AAFC-AAC/display-afficher.do?id=1253722495954〈=eng

Citizen Recognition
On October 2nd, the Township of Malahide celebrated the retirement of CAO/Clerk Randy Millard. Randy has served the township for over 35 years working.  Members of municipal councils and staff honoured Millard at the luncheon and reception focusing on his leadership and knowledge. Congratulations Randy!

Meetings and Delegations
Joe chaired and participated in many meetings over the past 2 weeks.  He attended the Renewable Fuels luncheon with General Wesley Clarke, met with the association of International Auto Manufacturers of Canada to discuss the new agreement concerning “Right to Repair”, met with Minister Gary Goodyear to discuss FedDev and attended the Board of Internal Economy meeting to approve Preparedness on H1N1 Plan of Parliament.