Nova Scotia - Where Talent Abounds

I continue to be amazed by the amount of talent produced here in Nova Scotia. From singers and songwriters, to hockey stars and actors, there is no limit to the creative genius that is grown in this province.

I had the pleasure of meeting another talented genius from Nova Scotia recently. He is photographer John Ratchford. At first glance, you are wowed by his sense of style. Then you start to discover his talent. His work will leave you breathless, bring tears to your eyes and bring a smile to your face.
Take a look for yourself: www.ratchfordphotographic.com

Ratchford has been taking pictures since he was 11, capturing images at the Sydney Racetrack. Now, he runs a state-of-the-art studio on Commercial Street in North Sydney. He opened the studio in 1994 and has since received a multitude of awards. With awards for best album, best portrait, best group portrait and works of excellence, John Ratcford is helping to put Nova Scotia on the map through his creative work.

He’s been recognized by organizations from here at home to Las Vegas. Ratchford could be working anywhere in the world, but he chooses Nova Scotia. “I stay in Nova Scotia for many reasons, one being the quality of life,” said Ratchford. “I can buy a home here for under $100,000! I could raise a family without the stresses of big cities. I live one block from my studio! Where else can you do that? I also love the climate here having the best of all seasons.”

Ratchford’s creativity is matched by his business savvy. His studio is one of the highest volume studios in Canada. “I have been encouraged to move on to bigger centers such as Toronto and even New York,” says Ratchford.  “But why bother? I regularly fly to these cities and others for work.  I want to live here.”  And we’re thrilled you’ve made that decision John. 
John Ratchford is a perfect example of the business success possible here in Nova Scotia.

Until next time,

Stacey

Calling All Nova Scotians

We're sending out congratulations to a very talented Nova Scotian musician!  Mitch MacDonald from Port Hood, Inverness Co., is competing in Canadian Idol and has made it to the Top 10.  Thanks to everyone who took the time to vote for Mitch.  Our job isn't done yet!  Nova Scotians are known for supporting one another and we have to continue to support Mitch.

Mitch is a carpenter, but his passion is music.  The 22 year old is the youngest of seven children.  He is a proud Nova Scotian.  "No matter how far away a Port Hooder can get from home, we all love coming back," he says. "I'm proud of where I'm from!"

Mitch will performed Monday night in a David Bowie tribute show.  He did a fantastic job!  We hope you voted for this talented young man. Another competitor will be eliminated tonight on CTV.  We'll continue to keep you updated on this incredible journey.

Until next time,

Stacey

Nova Scotia Companies Value Employees

I attended a celebration last week that honoured the Best Places to Work in Atlantic Canada.
Nova Scotia companies did well.  Really well.  Half of the companies on the Top 20 list are based in Nova Scotia.  Well Done!

Progress Magazine handed out the awards at its annual Best Places to Work luncheon. 
The business magazine partners with Best Companies Group to offer regional organizations an opportunity to evaluate their workplaces.  And the employees were the ones doing that evaluation.  A scary prospect for some employers.  But there are definite benefits to hearing some truth telling.  Participating companies get to see the results of their employee survey, which can be used to help improve their companies.

Competition for workers is huge.  So winning a distinction like this will no doubt help recruitment.  It can also help morale.  I witnessed some very happy people at this luncheon.  Many employers gave luncheon tickets to their employees, while Presidents and CEO’s spent the afternoon working.

So, lets take a moment to salute the 10 Nova Scotia companies that made the Top 20. 
Here they are in order of ranking!
2. Premiere Executive Suites, Halifax
4. Cambridge Suites Hotel, Sydney
5. Bruce Chevrolet Pontiac Buick GMC Limited, Middleton
7. RBC, Halifax
8. Corporate Research Associates Inc., Halifax
11. A&H GMAC Real Estate, Dartmouth
15. Macdonald Chisholm Trask Insurance, Kentville
17. AMIRIX Systems Inc., Halifax
18. Jacques Whitford, Dartmouth
19.  Huestis Ritch Barristers and Solicitors, Halifax

Next year, think about submitting your company.  You never know, you may be pleasantly surprised by the results.  And for those of you investigating Nova Scotia, discover what sets our businesses apart.

Until next time,

Stacey