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Dear Fellow Employees, It's hard to believe that the 2008 season is already upon us! Our visitors are returning from across the globe to enjoy all that Niagara Parks has to offer. A large part of their experience will be their interactions with you and the excellent service that they will enjoy and recount to their friends and families back home. Through courtesy, helpfulness and friendliness, we want our visitors to feel welcome and to create memories which will make them want to come back again and again. That experience begins with our team of dedicated employees and the commitment you have to your role and to all those you interact with in the park. I want to thank you for that commitment and for helping to create those lasting experiences for our guests. If this is your first season with us, welcome! It's a pleasure to have you as part of our team. This Employee Manual introduces our organization and serves as a resource guide, whether you are a long- term or a new employee. It will help you understand the organization and the values that we all strive to uphold. It will provide answers to some of the questions that you may have or perhaps some of the questions that you may be asked. It outlines our expectations of you and will set the stage for further training that you will receive. I want to wish you every success as you begin your journey as a valued member of The Niagara Parks Team. Have a great season! Dave Morris Human Resources Director -1- TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION I NIAGARA PARKS INFORMATION What is The Niagara Parks Commission? ................ 5 Our Mission .............................................................. 5 Our Vision ................................................................ 6 Founding Principles .................................................. 6 Aims and Objectives ................................................ 6 Original Park ............................................................ 7 Today's Park ............................................................. 7 Board of Directors (Commissioners) ......................... 8 Departments ............................................................. 8 Admission Packages ............................................... 13 SECTION II CUSTOMER SERVICE: DISCOVER THE WONDERS Customer Service Training ..................................... 15 "Wonders" Orientation Training .............................. 15 Principles of Accessibility Training .......................... 15 Image Training ........................................................ 16 Japanese Cultural Training ..................................... 16 Customer Service Attitudes ..................................... 16 Customer Service Skills .......................................... 16 Customer Service Principles .................................. 17 Business Depends on Quality of Service ................ 19 NPC Quality Service Team ..................................... 20 SECTION III CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT Code of Respect Policy ........................................... 23 Code of Conduct ..................................................... 24 Public Service of Ontario Act ................................... 25 New Table Rock Center .......................................... 26 Employee Conduct ................................................. 30 Professionalism ....................................................... 31 -2- Harassment Policy .................................................. 31 Human Resources Procedures .............................. 32 Employee Identification Cards ............................... 33 Pension Plan .......................................................... 33 Length of Employment ............................................ 34 Performance Appraisals/Rehire Policy .................... 34 Payroll Procedures .................................................. 35 Transfers ................................................................ 36 Employee Rules and Procedures: .......................... 37 Uniforms .................................................... 37 Grooming ................................................... 37 Cosmetics/Jewelry .................................... 38 Sunglasses ................................................ 38 Park Cleanliness ........................................ 38 Sickness .................................................... 38 Work Schedules ......................................... 38 Parking & Staff Transportation ................... 39 Freedom of Information .............................. 39 SECTION IV OTHER INFORMATION Persons with Disabilities ......................................... 41 Student Awards ....................................................... 41 Employee Website .................................................. 44 Employee Newsletter ............................................. 44 Bulletin Boards ....................................................... 44 Suggestion Awards ................................................. 45 Attractions Ontario Reciprocal Program .................. 47 Recycling & Environmental Initiatives ..................... 47 Health & Safety ....................................................... 49 In Summary ............................................................ 49 Key NPC Phone Numbers ...................................... 50 Notes ....................................................................... 51 -3- SECTION 1 NIAGARA PARKS INFORMATION OPENING JUNE 2008 -4- WHAT IS THE NIAGARA PARKS COMMISSION? The Niagara Parks Commission (NPC) is an Agency of the Provincial government, reporting to the Ontario Ministry of Tourism. An agency is different from standard government operations as we are given a mandate on how to operate by the Province, but we are set up to operate independently or at "arm's length". One important way that we are different from a regular government department is that we report to a Board of Directors, consisting of Commissioners who are entrusted to oversee our operations. Another critical difference is that we operate without the benefit of transfer payments (funding) from Government. That is why we operate gift shops, restaurants, parking lots, golf courses and attractions - so that we are able to generate our own revenue. We are defined as an Operational Enterprise Agency, which means that we are expected to operate as a business with revenues received from our own commercial operations. The Provincial Ministry of Finance also considers NPC to be a Government Business Enterprise, meaning we maintain our operations and meet our obligations from revenues generated outside the normal government reporting entity. OUR MISSION TO PRESERVE AND ENHANCE THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF THE FALLS AND THE NIAGARA RIVER CORRIDOR FOR THE ENJOYMENT OF VISITORS WHILE MAINTAINING FINANCIAL SELF-SUFFICIENCY. There are 3 key elements to this mission that drive our day-to-day operations: • Preserve and enhance - this reflects our stewardship responsibilities • For the enjoyment of visitors - who we do this for • Financial self-sufficiency - we carry out our activities at no cost to taxpayers -5- OUR VISION Niagara Parks will be the destination of choice for visitors, providing authentic and memorable experiences that explore the rich heritage and majestic beauty of the Falls and the Niagara River Corridor. FOUNDING PRINCIPLES The Niagara Falls Park Act was passed on March 30, 1885 by the Ontario Legislature, with two principles that continue to guide our operations today: • The Niagara Parks should be financially self-supporting. • As far as is possible, the Niagara Parks should be free to the public. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES These are additional objectives we have set: 1. To maintain, preserve and enhance the beauty and surroundings of the Canadian Horseshoe Falls and the Niagara River from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario. 2. To develop, operate and maintain a system of parks and recreation areas, historic sites and educational facilities which complement the natural wonders of Niagara Falls and the Niagara River Gorge and which facilitate and add to visitors' enjoyment. 3. To provide those wishing to view and enjoy the splendor of Niagara Falls with opportunities to do so with ease. 4. To provide a broad range of educational opportunities in the fields of horticulture, geology, natural history and the history of the Niagara area. 5. To continually seek new methods and means for improving the experience for those visiting the Falls area. 6. To encourage complimentary uses of land adjacent to the Parks and to work with other groups and agencies which have compatible interests. -6- 7. To ensure a suitable first and/or last impression for the many millions of visitors to Ontario and Canada crossing the borders along the Niagara River. 8. To encourage and promote the development of the tourism industry in Ontario and Canada. 9. To pursue the self-sustaining nature of the Parks while recognizing the limitations of compatible and suitable revenue-producing facilities as well as the long-range needs for capital improvements. To ensure our customers understand that we are financially self-sufficient, a "Your Purchases Make Great Things Happen" logo is used on our brochures and posters throughout the Park (see the back cover of this Manual). ORIGINAL PARK 1. In 1885 Queen Victoria Park was 60.2 hectares (154 acres). 2. Revenue was obtained from license fees for franchises: a. Land rental for hydroelectricity production b. Serving of light refreshments c. Operating an electric railway 3. The first Commissioners had the power to expropriate land. 4. Financing of the Parks was arranged through the sale of debentures. TODAY'S PARK 1. 1,720 hectares (4,250 acres) - more than twenty-five times larger than the original. 2. Extends 56 km (35 miles) along the Niagara Parkway from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario. 3. Is completely self-supporting, receiving no funding from taxpayers. We raise our own revenue through the operation of gift shops, restaurants, attractions, golf courses, heritage sites and parking lots. -7- BOARD OF DIRECTORS (The Commissioners) Niagara Parks' Commissioners decide on policy matters and fulfill the mandates of our founding principles and objectives. The Chairman, Vice Chairman and six other Commission members are appointed by the Ontario Gov- ernment to three year terms. The Commission also has representatives from the City of Niagara Falls, the Town of Fort Erie, the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake and from the Regional Municipality of Niagara. The Commission reports to the Legislature through the Ontario Minister of Tourism. DEPARTMENTS Corporate Services and Administration Corporate Services encompasses Finance, Treasury, Information Technology, Human Resources, Corporate Training, Health and Safety and Police Services. Finance includes Accounts Payable and Receivable, Payroll, Purchasing, Internal Auditing and a central Revenue Office. Administration includes Corporate Policy Development, Business Planning, Records Management, Program Evaluation and Corporate Strategy. Police Services The Niagara Parks Police Services are responsible for the security of Commission lands and properties as well as the welfare of our visitors. As with any police service that deals with large numbers of people, good public relations are a high priority. With millions of visitors in the Park annually, there are many and varied occurrences investigated by our Parks Police. These include thefts, traffic and pedestrian accidents, counterfeit currency offences, as well as rescuing people in dangerous situations. The Parks Police also work closely with other enforcement agencies to monitor the international border. The Parks Police co-ordinate and administer a computer-based Lost & Found system and provide assistance to the traveling public when necessary. They are responsible -8- for the enforcement of provincial statutes and assist in the enforcement of the Criminal Code as well as other specific federal statutes. They perform a number of ancillary duties to assist with the good management of NPC. Our Police Services motto is: SERVING OUR VISITORS WITH PRIDE Engineering & Planning Engineering involves the supervision and co-ordination of major maintenance projects and the upkeep of all Park buildings and structures, utilities, vehicles, equipment and roadways. The Engineering Department is also responsible for the development of new major capital projects and the management of properties owned by NPC. Also included is the operation of the People Mover system. Revenue Operations & Business Development This department includes all of NPC's revenue generating activities except for Golf: gift shops, attractions, parking lots, food services, Sales & Marketing and business development. This department operates 12 gift stores and our major attractions: Niagara's FuryTM - OPENING JUNE 2008 AT TABLE ROCK CENTER, Journey Behind the Falls, Whirlpool Aero Car, White Water Walk, the Butterfly Conservatory and tours at the Sir Adam Beck 2 Generating Station. It is also responsible for the Falls area Parking Lots and the Falls Incline Railway, co-ordination of Welcome Centers, the Ambassador program and the facilitation of a bus management system. NPC Retail stores are serviced from the Distribution Centre in Chippawa. At Table Rock Center, we have a photo finishing lab, a fresh fudge kitchen and we are adding the new Pop & Lolly'sTM candy store as part of the 2008 redevelopment (See pages 26 & 27). Currency exchanges are available at Table Rock Center and at Queen Victoria Place Gift Shop. The Maid of the Mist is -9- a privately owned attraction, but NPC manages four high speed elevators used to transport visitors to and from the attraction's Canadian docks. Sales & Marketing operates out of the Dunn Street office. Marketing staff research, develop and implement all Park marketing services and communications which include: advertising, signage, brochures and printed materials like passes and posters; negotiation of partnerships with companies like Pizza Pizza and Coca-Cola; development of several websites including niagaraparks.com and niagaraparksgolf.com; corporate communications including annual reports and submissions to government; public relations and news media activities; launch and promotion of new Parks' products and attractions; execution of all in-Park events and programming such as concerts and fireworks; and coordination of permits for all commercial photography, weddings and picnics on Park property. Senior staff are also involved in the development of new attractions, programming and long- term planning for NPC. Sales staff support four important functions: Corporate Meetings & Convention Sales provide customized banquet, golf tournament, party, wedding and picnic events for corporations and organizations; Travel Trade (or Group) Sales provide packaged attraction and restaurant bookings to North American sightseeing and tour operators; International & Asian Sales work with tour operators in countries around the world; Consignment Sales sell NPC Passes through partnering hotels and businesses like AAA. Sales customers can contact Marketing & Sales staff at our toll-free number 1-877-NIA- PARK ext. 2 or (905) 371-0254. Food Services provide a variety of food and beverage options. Several locations are licensed by the Alcohol & Gaming Commission of - 10 - Ontario: Elements on the Falls at Table Rock Center, Table Rock Quick Service including Tim Hortons, Pizza Pizza and Burger Town, Edgewaters Tap & Grill and Riverview Market Eatery, both located at Queen Victoria Place, Maid of the Mist, Butterfly Café and Queenston Heights Restaurant. Quick Service is also available at various outlets like the Whirlpool Aero Car and Maid of the Mist. Refreshment carts are used throughout the Park and Catering Services for special events are available through our restaurants and the "Chefs in the Park" catering vehicle. Golf Services Niagara Parks operates three public golf facilities. Legends on the Niagara, located south of Chippawa, is a five star 45-hole golf facility. It features two championship 18-hole courses, Battlefield and Ussher's Creek, a 9-hole short course known as Chippawa and a Jim McLean Golf School that provides all levels of golf instruction on Canada's only circular driving range. Niagara Parks also operates the famous Whirlpool Public Golf Course which has consistently ranked well among public golf courses in Canada since it opened in 1951. Full tournament services and Pro Shops, restaurants, halfway houses and banquet facilities are offered at both Whirlpool and Legends on the Niagara. The Oak Hall Par 3 is a 9-hole course located on the grounds of historic Oak Hall, home of NPC's administrative offices. NPC also supports the Niagara Golf Trail, a partnership of golf courses in the Niagara region that cooperatively market the Destination. The department also partners with local hotels to package overnight golf vacations. - 11 - Parks Department The Parks Department is responsible for the planning, development and maintenance of gardens and parklands from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario, including the preservation and restoration of natural habitat areas. Maintenance functions include the planting and care of trees, shrubs and flowers as well as the care of turf grass and nature areas. Operations include the Floral Showhouse, Floral Clock, Oakes Garden Theater, Botanical Gardens and School of Horticulture, and the provision of Waste Management and Recycling services. The Botanical Gardens is the "outdoor classroom" of students at the School of Horticulture, Canada's only residential school for horticultural studies, and is also home to the Butterfly Conservatory. Parks Department staff are responsible for over 2,000 live butterflies and the lush, tropical plants in this attraction. This Department also oversees our Heritage sites, including Old Fort Erie, Mackenzie Printery & Newspaper Museum, McFarland House, Laura Secord Homestead and Chippawa Battlefield Park. These historic sites are promoted together to the public as the Niagara Heritage Trail. NPC's Heritage sites are also involved in planning upcoming bicentennial events for 2012, along with binational partners. Visit www.visit1812.com for details. Most other Parks' department sites are promoted under two additional trail names: Niagara Garden Trail and Niagara Nature Trails. Gardening and flower enthusiasts can always find something new to appreciate on our Niagara Garden Trail - from Heritage kitchen gardens to beautiful annual displays and hanging baskets throughout Queen Victoria Park. The Niagara Nature Trails appeal to nature lovers, wild-flower or bird enthusiasts, environmentalists, hikers, cyclists, amateur geologists and photographers. - 12 - Rich outdoor experiences can be found on short trails winding through woodland and conservation areas, or on day-long adventures deep in the Niagara Glen or along the 53-km (33-mile) Niagara River Recreational Trail. The trail passes old growth and Carolinian forests, the Niagara escarpment, the Great Gorge and pristine nature preserves, all restored and protected by NPC. The Trail includes over 100 plaques, monuments and markers that highlight the persons, places and events that are significant to the history of Niagara. Our trail is part of the Trans-Canada network of trails and connects with many others, including the Bruce Trail at Queenston and the Friendship Trail in Fort Erie. Admission Packages NPC attractions that have admission fees are all promoted together in a package that allows our customers to enjoy all the attractions at one low rate. The Niagara Falls & Great Gorge Adventure Pass is sold each year from April 16 to October 24. The Pass provides admission to Journey Behind the Falls, Maid of the Mist, White Water Walk and the Butterfly Conservatory, as well as all-day transportation on the People Mover buses and Falls Incline Railway. The season for the Maid of the Mist is weather dependent and the boat may not sail as early as April 16, so the Whirlpool Aero Car is substituted for the Maid in the event the boat is not sailing. The Pass also includes discount admission coupons to Niagara's Fury opening at Table Rock Center in June 2008, Whirlpool Aero Car, Sir Adam Beck Tours and free admission to all Niagara Heritage Trail sites. The Winter Magic Pass is sold from November to April, providing discounted admission to the NPC attractions remaining open in the winter: Journey Behind the Falls and the Butterfly Conservatory, and to local partner attractions. - 13 - SECTION II CUSTOMER SERVICE: DISCOVER THE WONDERS! Principles of Accessibility - 14 - CUSTOMER SERVICE TRAINING Customer Service is key to the success of our business, whether we are serving a visitor or a fellow employee. Training is an important ingredient to providing the excellent level of service that people have come to expect. The Niagara Parks Commission has developed The Art and Culture of Customer Service as its official training program. This program provides the necessary tools to help us all achieve a level of hospitality service that is second to none. If you have not yet had the opportunity to experience The Art and Culture of Customer Service, please speak to your Supervisor and ask to be registered. If you would like more information on any of the following courses, please contact Corporate Training (Human Resources). "WONDERS" ORIENTATION TRAINING The Niagara Parks Commission is committed to providing employees with the tools that they need in order to be effective on the job and provide the best service possible to our visitors. Part of that commitment involves the delivery of an orientation program for all new employees. This course is known as WONDERS and assists employees to understand and gain an appreciation of what The Niagara Parks Commission has to offer (e.g. who we are and what we do as an organization, the various departments and locations, our history, employment expectations and how we link to our community partners). PRINCIPLES OF ACCESSIBILITY TRAINING Niagara Parks is committed to ensuring all our visitors have a safe and comfortable experience. This new course is designed to assist employees in understanding the unique needs of our customers with disabilities, and how to treat all persons with dignity, equity, inclusion, independence, responsiveness and sensitivity. - 15 - IMAGE TRAINING In order to maintain a respectful and professional image when dealing with our visitors, Image Training is now available to all staff. Your supervisor will be able to assist you in registering for this course. JAPANESE CULTURAL TRAINING We host a number of Japanese visitors in the Parks each year. NPC offers cultural training to help front-line staff to understand the needs of this important visitor group and to serve them better. CUSTOMER SERVICE ATTITUDES • Take personal pride in your job. "You are the company". If you provide good service, you look good and so do we. Customers will look to you for your expertise. • Be helpful to others. Treat others the way you would like to be treated! CUSTOMER SERVICE SKILLS • Make a good first impression. "Make their day!" Your attitude and appearance will make the difference: • Dress for success • Make your day better by making it better for others • A smile and "hello" will go a long way • Communicate with customers. "Where there's a will there's a way" to communicate. Your facial expression, tone of voice and enthusiasm tells a story to your customer. Although you may be asked the same question repeatedly each day, it is that customer's first time asking and they must be treated respectfully. • Satisfy your customers. Find out what your customers want and strive to meet their needs! - 16 - CUSTOMER SERVICE PRINCIPLES Maintaining good customer relations is not an exact science, but common sense and experience have contributed to certain principles that really work. To achieve customer satisfaction you should strive to: 1. Give a favourable impression. You should be well- groomed, have a neat work area and acknowledge your customer immediately. When first meeting your customer, smile, maintain eye contact and use polite, respectful titles to address them, such as Sir and Madam. 2. Give your full attention. Your customer should sense that he or she is your top priority. Answer every question to the best of your ability. If you don't know the answer, find out for them. 3. Speak carefully. Use a friendly, positive and easy to hear voice at all times. If you are friendly and respectful it is likely that the customer will treat you in a similar manner. Your voice is the most multifaceted "service tool" available to you. Your voice can convey concern, care and compassion. Our visitors expect to be treated in a friendly, respectful and professional manner. 4. Ask the customer questions and listen for a response. This approach allows you to obtain information about the customer's concerns, wants and needs and receive his/her understanding of your answers. 5. Give fast, efficient service. People will tolerate long lines and inconvenience if they see someone putting all their effort into serving them. They are less tolerant, however, of those who are inefficient or inattentive even under ideal conditions. 6. Do something extra for the customer. This means that you should add a portion of your own personality and effort into the job. It also means volunteering help. An offer of "May I help you?" always brings a smile. - 17 - Try to anticipate what our customers would like and be ready to serve them. Sometimes, in spite of our best efforts, a customer will have a complaint and be upset. In those times remember: 1. Defuse angry customers. Allow them to express themselves and try to empathize with them. "I'm sorry" should be said to the customer whether or not you were involved in the initial issue. Try to find an area of common ground. Separate the facts from the emotions. 2. Keep your voice tone normal. Stay cool! Don't argue! If the customer is loud, try speaking in a softer, contrasting tone. It will be difficult for them to hold a one-sided argument. 3. When someone complains about a policy, procedure or price, listen! A customer who complains may provide valuable information on how to improve our service. Contact your Supervisor and discuss the complaint. The Supervisor will decide if any exception to a policy is warranted. 4. Do not take a complaint personally. If you have made a mistake, apologize and use the incident as a learning experience. Don't allow yourself to be devastated. Let the customer know that you are glad the problem has been pointed out and that you will deal with it. A customer who complains may get some satisfaction feeling that he/she has corrected or improved the situation for the next person. 5. When a refund or adjustment is warranted, it should be handled in a positive manner. Never give the impression that you are irritated. Handle the adjustment as quickly as possible making sure you obtain a customer signature, receipt and the reason for the refund. Find out the procedure at your location from the supervisor. - 18 - Practicing these principles along with using good sense will ensure that customers have a favourable impression of you, the operation and The Niagara Parks Commission. Remember, we all have customers, whether they are visitors or co-workers, so let's treat everyone with friendliness, respect and courtesy. BUSINESS DEPENDS on the QUALITY OF SERVICE What affects how a customer judges the quality of our company? Our Product? Our Service? Our Advertising? Yes to all factors, but the customer is more sensitive to a whole host of intangible factors that can make or break a business relationship. A customer may decide to stop doing business with NPC simply because you waited too long to return a phone message. The bottom line is that we are all, regardless of departmental duties, just as responsible as the front-line sales and service staff for maintaining a good relationship with our customers. 1. Every contact with the customer adds to or detracts from their impression of how we do business. 2. Any contact with the customer can be the one that wins or loses their business. 3. Every time there is contact with the customer we are in the spotlight. At that moment, our words, actions and inactions are being evaluated as the whole business experience. 4. Nothing is insignificant. Our tone of voice, our mood, our manners, will all be judged in light of whether that customer wants to continue doing business with us or not. - 19 - 5. With that in mind, take particular care that we never allow these moments of contact to be treated with indifference or impatience. After all, the company's business is at stake, and therefore, our jobs are too. THE NIAGARA PARKS QUALITY SERVICE TEAM The Quality Service Team is an employee committee representing all departments of The Niagara Parks Commission. The committee is responsible for making recommendations related to the quality of experience provided to those that we serve. In order to find out who is your department representative, access the NPC employee website (see page 44) and click on Quality Service Program. Here you will find information on the Team Members, the Quality Service Star program and the Quality Service Star Nomination form. The Quality Service Team's Goals are: • To raise employee standards regarding Quality Service and ensure that all employees are aware of the Quality Service Strategy. • To continuously provide input/feedback to all NPC employees on the ever-changing standards of service excellence. • To provide outstanding Quality Service above and beyond our customers' expectations and in doing so become recognized as a world-class destination for service. - 20 - Service Star Award The Service Star Award was established by the NPC Quality Service Team to recognize the contributions of employees who provide outstanding quality service to our visitors as well as to other staff. Recipients of the award receive acknowledgment in the Employee Newsletter, a plaqued certificate, Quality Service t-shirt, pin, mug, a $100 NPC gift certificate and a record of their achievement in their personnel file. Any NPC employee who has demonstrated an ongoing record of providing quality service to visitors and/or employees is eligible. Any NPC employee may nominate any other employee for this honour. To nominate you must fill out a ballot form (ballots are located on the bulletin boards at each location as well as on the employee website) and send it to the Human Resources Department. All nominations received will be reviewed by the Quality Service Team during regular meetings. All entries and the identities of nominators will remain confidential. Quality Service Team Mission Statement The Niagara Parks Commission's Quality Service Team is committed to instilling a positive attitude through cooperative efforts with all employees to provide outstanding quality service to our customers, both internal and external. It is also the Team's objective to achieve and maintain a worldwide reputation for excellence in all undertakings. If you have any questions, suggestions, examples of quality service that you would like to share or would like to know how you can contribute, please contact your Supervisor or Corporate Training (H.R.). - 21 - SECTION III CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT - 22 - CODE OF RESPECT POLICY NPC has in place many Policies regarding how all its employees are expected to conduct their day to day work activities. A full copy of the Corporate Policy Manual, with many administrative and health and safety policies, is available on the Employee website. Of particular importance is a new Policy that all employees need to be familiar with, the Code of Respect. The Policy applies to all persons associated with the Commission, including Commissioners (our board of directors), employees, visitors, contractors, consultants, suppliers, vendors and stakeholders, who are all to be treated with respect and valued for their contributions. The Niagara Parks Commission is a place where all persons feel accepted and appreciated and are encouraged to contribute to maintaining a professional, positive and healthy environment. We consistently uphold the equal rights of every person and recognize their inherent dignity and worth. In keeping with our Respect Policy, inappropriate behaviour includes but is not limited to: any act of harassment, intimidation, discrimination, coercion or physical or verbal abuse of persons associated with or who come in contact with Niagara Parks; abuse of power and position by any person; betrayal of personal and confidential information; discussing another person and/ or the organization in a derogatory manner; joke telling at the expense of others; acceptance of information as fact without investigation of all persons and details involved; non-action by either party in resolution of any contravention of these behaviours. The Respect Policy is part of the Code of Conduct which has been endorsed by The Niagara Parks Commission. - 23 - CODE OF CONDUCT NPC has developed a Code of Conduct in consultation with our Commissioners, employees and other stakeholders. It provides a set of standards of conduct or behaviour expected and required of everyone associated with NPC. The Code helps us to understand what we stand for and will guide our behaviour as we work together toward our common vision and goals. It will strengthen our organization and assist us in achieving a culture of integrity. The Code applies to Commissioners, employees and associates of the Commission and requires all of us to operate according to NPC's values of respect, integrity, excellence, accountability and teamwork. RESPECT We recognize every person's inherent dignity and worth. INTEGRITY We are fair and honest in all our communication. EXCELLENCE We are committed to achieving best practices in all that we do. ACCOUNTABILITY We are responsible for all our decisions and actions. TEAMWORK We foster and encourage working individually and collectively toward a shared vision. It is our shared responsibility to become familiar with this Code and other applicable laws and policies and to understand the consequences of our actions. We are all accountable for our actions and behaviours. Under the Code, there is a disclosure mechanism. If you become aware of a legitimate violation of the Code, you are expected to bring the matter to the attention of appropriate persons in the organization. Specific - 24 - training on the Code and its disclosure procedures is being provided to all existing and new Commissioners, employees and associates. We are all required to understand the Code of Conduct and its accompanying policies and procedures and make these a part of the way that we conduct business at Niagara Parks. Full compliance with the Code will help make Niagara Parks a better place. Copies of the Code of Conduct are available at the Human Resources Department, from Managers and Supervisors and online at the Niagara Parks employee website: www. employee.niagaraparks.com (see page 44). PUBLIC SERVICE OF ONTARIO ACT This new Act applies to all public servants in Ontario and Niagara Parks employees and appointees (Commissioners) are now considered public servants under the Act's ethical framework. This ethical framework which requires all public servants to behave in an ethical manner is similar to that described in NPC's Code of Conduct. This ethical framework impacts four key areas: A. Oath of Allegiance (loyalty) and Oath of Office (confidentiality) – while only new hires are now required to take these Oaths, all employees and appointees are expected to honour the spirit of the Oaths. B. Conflicts of Interest – all public servants will need to follow the Conflict of Interest rules set out in the Act and established in NPC's Code of Conduct and policies (Continued on page 28). - 25 - Set to open in June 2008, The Niagara Parks Commission's new multi-million dollar attraction, Niagara's FuryTM, is the cornerstone of the highly anticipated renovations at Table Rock Center. Table Rock Center will be Niagara's newest "must see" destination for shopping, dining and entertainment. The major renovation and state-of-the art additions include a Bridge of Flowers, which will showcase a distinctive - 26 - Clock Tower providing covered pedestrian access to the Center from the Fallsview Tourist Area and a Grand Hall year-round viewing Gallery. Table Rock Center will also introduce Pop & Lolly's™ candy shop that will include an on-site confectionary chef, and the new Elements on the Falls restaurant that will offer the best view of the Falls with a unique dining experience. - 27 - Generally, the Act's Conflict of Interest rules prohibit: • using your position to benefit yourself, your spouse or your children • accepting gifts other than those of nominal value • disclosing confidential information • giving preferential treatment • hiring your spouse, children, parents or siblings • engaging in outside activities that conflict with your public service duties • making personal use of NPC resources There are also rules for employees involved in matters that might involve the private sector as well as for former employees and Commissioners once they leave the Commission. Current and former public servants are required to advise their Ethics Executive (General Manager for staff, Chairman for Appointees) if they think they have an actual or potential conflict of interest. The Ethics Executive will determine whether a conflict of interest exists and will provide direction if necessary. You are required to follow any direction provided by the Ethics Executive. C. Political Activity – NPC employees are required to follow the political activity rights and restrictions set out in the Act. While you are permitted to engage in political activity, you may not: • engage in political activity in the workplace or while in NPC uniform • use government resources for political activity • associate your position as a public servant with public activity (except as necessary to identify your position and work experience if you are seeking - 28 - candidacy in a federal, provincial or municipal election). If you have any questions about what is appropriate, please contact your Ethics Executive for direction. Additional activity rights material is available on the Employee website (see page 44). D. Disclosure of Wrongdoing – the Act outlines expectations for ethical behaviour and a process to address behaviour that is not appropriate (wrongdoing). This process is called a disclosure or disclosing a wrongdoing. Anyone who makes a legitimate disclosure or who cooperates in an investigation is protected from reprisal. Many things could be the subject of a disclosure – a contravention of a federal or provincial Act or regulation, the abuse of NPC property, disrespectful behaviour, a breach of confidentiality – really, a violation of any of NPC's policies relating to employee conduct. Details on how to make an internal disclosure are provided in the Code of Conduct and are also available on the Employee website. The Act allows for disclosure to the Provincial Integrity Commissioner under certain conditions which are: if you believe that disclosure to NPC would not be appropriate or if you have already disclosed to NPC and have concerns that the matter has not been dealt with appropriately. Note that the Integrity Commissioner may choose not to handle the disclosure and it may be referred back to the NPC Ethics Executive. Further details about the Public Service of Ontario Act, NPC's Code of Conduct and ethical framework can be found on the Employee website (See page 44). - 29 - EMPLOYEE CONDUCT It is NPC's desire and intent to establish and maintain a positive working environment and to promote harmonious relationships among all staff. Achieving that result requires that staff exhibit professionalism and a positive approach with respect to the various situations and challenges which are part of daily business operations. Commitment, loyalty and respect for each other and for the organization, are integral parts of creating and sustaining that positive healthy atmosphere. Inappropriate comments or actions, by anyone, that are negative, derogatory, threatening or slanderous toward another individual, or toward The Niagara Parks Commission, create a poisoned work environment and will not be tolerated. Any employee conducting themselves in this manner will be subject to immediate and severe disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal. Other items regarding conduct are as follows: 1. No horseplay is permitted. This jeopardizes your health and safety and that of others as well. 2. Food and drink, chewing gum are only permitted during your scheduled break period. Please ask your Supervisor where your employee lunch area is located. 3. Alcohol and drugs are prohibited. Violators will be subject to discipline. 4. Tips should not be accepted by any staff other than designated restaurant employees. 5. In accordance with the new policy CPM-05-21, NPC is a smoke-free environment. Smoking is permitted only during your scheduled break and only in designated outdoor smoking areas. - 30 - PROFESSIONALISM Remember, while you are at work, you are representing The Niagara Parks Commission. Your attitude, dress, image and skills all reflect on the professionalism that you portray to both visitors and co-workers. You Don't Get a Second Chance to Make a Good First Impression! HARASSMENT POLICY The Ontario Human Rights Code of 1981 provides that every person has the right to freedom from discrimination in many areas. For NPC employees, the Act covers freedom from discrimination in employment. The Code prohibits harassment in employment because of sex, sexual orientation, race, ancestry, place of origin, color, ethnic origin, citizenship, creed, handicap, age, marital status, family status, or record of offenses. It also prohibits unwelcome sexual solicitations or advances made by a person in a position of authority, or a reprisal because an advance has been refused. It is the policy of The Niagara Parks Commission that every employee can expect to work in an environment free from personal harassment. Directors and Supervisory staff are responsible, upon becoming aware that harassment is occurring, for dealing with it, even though no formal complaint has been made. In either event, the Human Resources Director should be notified immediately. What To Do If You Are Harassed 1. Tell the harasser very clearly that his or her behavior is not welcome. 2. If the harasser is a co-worker, or someone who works for NPC, complain to someone who has some authority over the harasser. Ask that person to take steps to stop - 31 - the harassment. It is a good idea to complain in writing, noting the occasions on which you told the harasser that his or her conduct was unwelcome. Ask for a written response. Be sure to keep a copy of what you wrote and any response you receive. 3. Keep written notes about what happened to you when the harassment occurred and what you did about it. 4. All complaints of personal harassment will be fully and properly investigated and, if substantiated, remedied without delay. HUMAN RESOURCES PROCEDURES If you are working with The Niagara Parks Commission for the very first time or have been rehired after leaving employment with the Commission, you will need to bring the following information to the Human Resources Office before commencing work: (a) Proof of your legal status to work in Canada, i.e. either Canadian Birth Certificate OR Naturalization from Employment and Immigration Canada (b) Proof of age (c) Your Social Insurance Number (d) Your complete address, including postal code (e) Your telephone number (f) Bank account number for Direct Payroll Deposit (g) A Seasonal Service Contract (signed by your Supervisor) if you are a Seasonal Employee (h) If you are a Regular Full-Time Employee, you will be contacted by the Human Resources Office regarding the completion of other relevant employment documents including an explanation of the Benefit Package If you are a Seasonal Employee and are returning from layoff, you are not required to come to the Human Resources Office to sign in. Your Supervisor will complete - 32 - a contract, review it with you and forward it to the Human Resources Office. As a returning employee, you will only need to come to the Human Resources Office if there is a change that requires your signature (new bank account number, new tax status, signing up for benefits or pension). IT IS IMPORTANT TO UNDERSTAND THAT YOU CANNOT BE PAID UNTIL THE HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE RECEIVES THE REQUIRED INFORMATION. If at any time, you change your name, address, telephone or bank account number, please contact the Human Resources Office as soon as possible in order that we may ensure that information relating to your employment is complete and accurate. EMPLOYEE IDENTIFICATION CARDS Employees are issued identification cards which can be used to obtain discounts at certain NPC Food, Retail and Attractions operations. Identification cards are also used for staff who need to ride the People Mover buses or Falls Incline Railway to get to their work locations. Any questions concerning the use of identification cards should be referred to your Supervisor. Anyone who leaves employment and is not returning must turn in his/ her card to a Supervisor who will forward it to the Human Resources Office. PENSION PLAN All Seasonal Employees (with the exception of students) have the option to join the pension plan if they wish. It is only mandatory for Regular Full-Time Staff. For more information, please contact the Human Resources Office. - 33 - LENGTH OF EMPLOYMENT For our Seasonal Staff, we are anxious to employ you for as long as possible, but due to the seasonal nature of the tourism industry in Niagara Falls, it is not possible to assure you employment for a definite time period. Your length of employment will depend upon uncontrollable and unpredictable factors such as weather conditions, number of tourists, international events, business demands, etc. PERFORMANCE APPRAISALS/REHIRE POLICY NPC is committed to a policy of appraising the performance of all employees (Regular and Seasonal). If you are a Seasonal Employee and your employment for the season is coming to an end and you have not yet received a performance appraisal, you should contact your Supervisor and request one. A satisfactory appraisal is required in order to be rehired next season. If you are being invited to return next season, it will not be necessary to fill in another application form. If you are a Regular Full-Time Employee, your performance should be appraised on an annual basis. The purpose of appraisals is to improve performance and/or maintain high performance levels by ensuring that employees know and are committed to achieving what is expected of them. Employees are asked to sign the appraisal to show that they are aware of the Supervisor's evaluation. For Seasonal Employees, Managers will indicate on your appraisal the rehire status prior to the end of the current season. *Please Note: IF YOU ARE A SEASONAL EMPLOYEE AND YOU VOLUNTARILY TERMINATE YOUR EMPLOYMENT PRIOR TO LABOUR DAY, AND/OR WHILE YOUR SERVICES ARE STILL REQUIRED, YOU MAY NOT BE CONSIDERED FOR WORK IN THE FUTURE. - 34 - PAYROLL PROCEDURES 1. Only you or your Supervisor are allowed to punch your time card in or out. All changes or markings must be initialed by your Supervisor. The time worked by some Regular Full-Time Staff is recorded on an Attendance Record. This information must be approved by the Supervisor. 2. Employees are paid through a Direct Deposit System. The net amount of your pay will be deposited every other Friday to the bank account designated by you. For Seasonal Employees, vacation pay is added to each deposit. Pay period schedules are available through your Supervisor. 3. Seasonal Employees are eligible for up to nine (9) paid public holidays: New Year's Day, Family Day, Good Friday, Victoria Day, Canada Day, Labour Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and Boxing Day. 4. Regular Full-Time Employees are eligible for three (3) additional paid holidays (Easter Monday, Civic Holiday, Remembrance Day or relevant Collective Agreement). 5. If an employee works on a public holiday he/she will receive time and one-half for the hours worked (or the payment as outlined in the pertinent collective agreement) plus a regular day's pay (calculated in accordance with appropriate Collective Agreement). 6. Gratuities directed to restaurant staff will be paid on regular pay days as part of your Direct Deposit amount. They are listed separately on the earnings statement. Questions about gratuities should be directed to your restaurant Supervisor. 7. Upon written authorization from the Employee, a Record of Employment will be sent to the Employment Insurance Office following notification by a Supervisor that an employee has left employment. An employee may file with the Employment Centre after their last day of employment. - 35 - TRANSFERS It is possible for Seasonal Employees to apply for a transfer to another department within NPC under the following guidelines: 1. Seasonal Employees who wish to transfer from one department to another must visit the Human Resources Office to complete a Transfer Request form. Transfer requests are accepted year-round, however, an employee wishing to be considered for a transfer prior to the opening of the season must apply on or before December 31st. 2. Executive Directors and their management staff will ensure that the employees on the transfer list are evaluated and considered before new employees are hired. It is understood that only employees with good work records will be considered for transfers. 3. The Human Resources Office will notify employees about the results of their transfer requests if a new position is found. 4. It should be understood that submitting a transfer request is not a guarantee of a transfer to another department. 5. In addition to the above, bargaining unit employees who wish to transfer from one department to another shall be subject to the terms and conditions of the relevant Collective Agreement. Transfer requests are valid for one season only, and must be renewed each year by the employee. Any changes to a transfer request once it is completed must be made by visiting the Human Resources Office. - 36 - EMPLOYEE RULES AND PROCEDURES Every business needs rules and ways of doing things in order to be efficient and fair. The following guidelines are to help you understand what is expected of you. An Image Training Course is provided through Corporate Training to offer clarification on acceptable employee appearance. Be sure to speak to your Supervisor if you need further information on any of these conditions of employment. Uniforms (if required) 1. NPC only (substitutes not permitted). 2. Must be neat and clean. 3. Name tags must be worn at all times. 4. Shirts and blouses must be tucked in. 5. Where required, personal protective equipment and clothing must be used. Sunscreen is available for employees who are required to work outside on a regular basis. Grooming 1. Hair should be neat, clean and well groomed. 2. Styles or tinting that is extreme will not be allowed. 3. Staff may have to tie their hair back or wear hair nets in some work locations. 4. Men must not grow beards or mustaches during their seasonal employment period. If a beard or mustache is in place before that time, it must be kept neatly trimmed and groomed. 5. All employees should ensure that all personal hygiene needs are met daily. 6. Staff should be well rested for their scheduled shift. 7. Footwear must be comfortable, in good repair and where applicable, comply with Health and Safety regulations. - 37 - Cosmetics/Jewellery 1. Should be kept to a minimum. 2. Should be simple and in a natural or plain style. 3. Should be in good taste - not flashy or pretentious. 4. Extreme or inappropriate items will not be allowed. Sunglasses 1. Should only be worn when needed to block out the sun for safe and efficient job performance. 2. Should be a simple style. Park Cleanliness 1. Everyone in the Park is expected to contribute to keeping the Park clean and litter free. 2. Pick up any litter you see and deposit it in the appropriate disposal. 3. Keep your work area clean at all times. 4. Use the appropriate recycling bins that are found throughout the Park. Sickness Any employee who is absent from work due to sickness may be required by their Supervisor to furnish a medical certificate of illness and/or fitness to return to work. If you are unable to come to work, please call and speak to your Supervisor and advise him/her as soon as possible. Please do not relay messages through other employees or friends. Talk to your Supervisor directly. Work Schedules Every employee is responsible to check work schedules and be aware of his/her duty shift. Any questions regarding the schedule or difficulties that arise should be discussed with your Supervisor. - 38 - Parking & Staff Transportation NPC has a parking policy to ensure that the maximum number of visitors to Niagara Parks may conveniently park their cars. Generally, staff parking is not permitted in the Falls Parking Lot during the summer season or on weekends during the busier periods of the Spring/Fall shoulder seasons. Staff may use the Falls Incline Railway or People Mover buses during their regularly scheduled times for transportation to and from work. In addition, a dedicated staff shuttle operates at selected times. Memos are issued periodically notifying appropriate staff of the specific dates on which they may or may not park in Falls Parking as well as the hours of operation of Rapidsview Parking, Falls Incline, People Mover and the staff shuttle. Please follow the instructions issued by your Supervisor when these options are unavailable or if alternate parking arrangements have been made. Freedom of Information The Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act stands for two fundamental principles: that Ontario government information should be available to the public and that the privacy of individuals should be protected with respect to personal information about themselves held by the Ontario government. Under the Act, the government (including The Niagara Parks Commission) must observe strict standards with respect to the collection, storage, use, dissemination and disposal of personal information. In order to protect our employees' right to privacy, we would require a written authorization from an employee before we could release any information about him/her to a third party (e.g. credit check by a lending institution, reference for other employment, etc.). The appropriate release forms are available from the Human Resources Office. - 39 - SECTION IV OTHER INFORMATION 2007 Student Award Winners - 40 - PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES While NPC works towards ensuring that all of our customers have a safe and comfortable visit, many upgrades have been made to our sites to provide full accessibility to our attractions for persons using wheelchairs or motorized scooters. While all of our restaurants, washrooms and most of our attractions are fully accessible, some of the older heritage buildings, the Whirlpool Aero Car and our People Mover system are not. Attractions will provide complimentary admission to a person who is assisting someone with a disability and wheelchair rentals are available through Table Rock Information. The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act was passed in 2005. Standards Committees are being established under the Act in the areas of goods, services, facilities, employment, accommodation and buildings. NPC will work with these committees to introduce changes at Niagara Parks with a new Corporate Policy CPM 08-07 and will conduct staff training on the Principles of Accessibility. The intent of these changes is to treat persons with disabilities with dignity, equity, inclusion, independence, responsiveness and sensitivity. STUDENT AWARDS NPC provides awards to successful student employees who will be attending a post-secondary institution in the fall. In order to qualify for one of the five general awards, the Selection Committee will evaluate employees according to the following criteria: 1. High quality work performance with the NPC 2. Full-time attendance at a recognized post-secondary institution 3. School grades 4. Contribution to the community - 41 - In addition to the five general awards, students may qualify for four additional awards: George A. Seibel Award This award is in memory of George A. Seibel who served as Park Historian from 1984 - 1992. It is presented to an NPC student employee based on economic need, academic achievement, job performance and who is pursuing a course of study in History, Journalism or Environmental Studies. James Harris Award This award is in memory of Jim Harris who served as Director of Planning and Development for NPC until his death in 1995. This award is presented to an NPC student employee based on academic achievement, job performance, contributions to the community and who is pursuing a course of study in Engineering, Architecture or Land Use Planning. Bill Derbyshire Award This award is in honour of Bill Derbyshire. Bill was a member of the Niagara Parks Police for 37 years and served as Chief of Police for over 25 years. This award will be presented to a student who is pursuing a career in law enforcement and is enrolled in post secondary studies. Applications are available in early summer and you may obtain application forms through your Supervisor. Please send your completed form to the Human Resources Office. Supervisors should encourage worthy employees to apply. - 42 - Niagara Parks Apprentice Cooks Scholarship Award This is our newest award in conjunction with The Niagara Parks Commission Chefs in the Park Team and the Ontario Ministry of Training and Apprenticeship Board. To qualify, the recipient must be a full time student enrolled in the Cooks Apprenticeship Program and training at one of NPC's facilities during that study year. The award will be offered based on the following point criteria: 1. Work Performance – based on the student's attendance and practical skills as outlined in the program's standard appraisal initiative. 2. Career Aspirations – based on a typed report detailing what part of the Food and Beverage industry they wish to pursue and how their experiences in the Niagara Parks Apprenticeship Program has/will assist them in achieving those goals (must be 12pt font, not to exceed 2 pages). 3. Community Involvement – based on the student's volunteer commitments over the past two years. These commitments are not limited to food service experiences. Must be a typed document detailing organization name, contact information, contact person, description of responsibilities and the time frame of the commitment. Submissions including supporting documents for each criterion are due at 8:30 a.m. on the third Monday of January. Submissions are to be forwarded to the Executive Chef. A sub-committee of Niagara Parks Food Service Team will review submissions received by the deadline. - 43 - EMPLOYEE WEBSITE An Employee Website has been developed to provide more NPC information at www.employee.niagaraparks.com. You must sign in using your name and ID number written exactly as shown on your pay stub. Once signed on you will have access to job postings, documents, policies, collective agreements, announcements, health and safety information, employee newsletters, partnership programs and Quality Service Star Awards. EMPLOYEE NEWSLETTER A newsletter for and about NPC employees called "Employee Connection" is e-mailed to all staff at least four times each year and copies are available to all employees on Bulletin Boards located at each site. Retired employees also receive a copy through the regular mail. The newsletter fills two communication objectives: Social updates that recognize milestones such as marriages and promotions, employees who make a special contribution to NPC or to the community, and NPC events and parties; and Business updates sent at least twice each year that highlight objectives and initiatives being launched by the Commission. Suggestions for articles or photographs should be sent to the Sales & Marketing department at Dunn Street. BULLETIN BOARDS Each location has a bulletin board for the purpose of communicating a variety of information to staff (e.g. op- portunities, new and changing services, updates on poli- cies, procedures and health and safety, etc.). Be sure to check your workplace bulletin boards for important infor- mation regarding issues which may be relevant to you. - 44 - SUGGESTION AWARDS WHO CAN SUBMIT A SUGGESTION? All Probationary, Regular and Seasonal Employees may submit suggestions. Suggestion forms are available from your Bulletin Boards, your Supervisor, the Human Resources office or the Employee website. WHAT TYPES OF SUGGESTIONS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR AN AWARD? 1. Those that result in tangible or measurable savings. 2. Those that increase the productivity and efficiency of our operation. 3. Those that improve the Park environment. 4. Suggestions related to Health and Safety will be considered by the Executive Director, Corporate Services in consultation with the Health, Safety and Environment Department. However, prior to their submission, these suggestions should be made known to your Supervisor for immediate workplace consideration. 5. A Letter of Acknowledgement will be sent to all participants. AWARD STRUCTURE 1. A letter of acknowledgement from the General Manager for an accepted submission. 2. Notation in the Retirement/Awards program. 3. A tangible reward. 4. Letter of acknowledgement from the Suggestion Committee to all participants. - 45 - AVAILABLE AWARDS 1. Category A – SIGNIFICANT - Implementable suggestions with significant savings. 2. Category B - TANGIBLE - Implementable suggestions with moderate savings. 3. Category C – INTANGIBLE – Implementable suggestions where savings are not measurable but are evaluated to have a great, substantial, moderate or small degree of benefit to the organization. 4. MERITORIOUS – Suggestion is good but not implementable. The awards are no longer cash; they are now a selection of gifts for the employee to choose, depending on the category of their award. HOW SUGGESTIONS ARE HANDLED Suggestions are submitted to the Suggestion Administrator and responses are given as soon as possible. Only one suggestion should be submitted per form. If at any time an employee wishes to reopen a suggestion to present new or additional information, the Suggestion Administrator can be asked to review the decision. When two or more employees submit the same idea, the first to be received and recorded shall be considered eligible for an award. When two or more employees sign a suggestion which is adopted, the award shall be divided equally among them. All suggestions become the property of The Niagara Parks Commission. RETURN THE COMPLETED SUGGESTION FORM TO: Secretary Administrator, Oak Hall P.O. Box 150 Niagara Falls, Ontario, L2E 6T2 - 46 - ATTRACTIONS ONTARIO RECIPROCAL PROGRAM NPC participates each summer in the Attractions Ontario Reciprocal Admissions Program that provides discounts to all employees to visit other participating attractions throughout Ontario. Over 125 attractions are eligible, including African Lion Safari and Whirlpool Jet Boats. A full list of participating attractions is available on the Employee Website. Employees from participating attractions that visit NPC receive: free admission including one guest and 10% off of purchases of $20 or more in retail shops, available at all NPC attractions Monday to Friday only before 11:00 a.m. or after 3:00 p.m. The employee must show employment confirmation (employee card, business card, pay stub) including photo I.D. and a second piece of I.D. RECYCLING & OTHER ENVIRONMENTAL INITIATIVES Our Commitment to the Environment NPC is entrusted to "preserve and enhance the beauty of the Falls and the Niagara River corridor". One initiative to preserve the environment is NPC's "Spare the Air" Emissions Reduction Program that we started in 2001. The program now includes the City of Niagara Falls, Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, Town of Fort Erie, Peace Bridge Authority, Niagara Falls Bridge Commission and Ontario Power Generation, all working together to decrease idling in the Park by motor coach and truck drivers. In accordance with Parks policy, this program extends to all employees and you should do your part by avoiding unnecessary idling in the Park. Our goal is to improve environmental quality and sustainable development throughout our parks for the benefit of our visitors, employees and partners in the community. - 47 - The recycling and composting programs in the Park have long been recognized as a model for parks and other operations across the country. The recycling initiative began in the mid-1980s and short-term composting has taken place for even longer. One key initiative is the use of biodegradable plastic and recycling of raincoats at Journey Behind the Falls, a popular attraction visited by millions of visitors each year. NPC is committed to implementing programs aimed at greening the Park, fostering Project Green Initiatives that are focused on the preservation of existing important natural features and the general enhancement of the natural environment. Some of our Project Green Initiatives include implementing more green products in our retail stores, using recycled and organic materials wherever possible, the development of a Moraine Management Plan, Revitalization of Oak Savannah Project, Reclamation of Pavement to Green Space at Table Rock, Recycling and Composting, Rehabilitation of Ussher's Creek, guardian of Species at Risk Initiatives, Integrated Pest Management System and several others. Each of these demonstrates our commitment to providing and promoting leadership in environmental protection, management and sustainability. Another recent environmental initiative was the establishment of the Smog Alert Response Plan. The Commission is equipped to respond to smog alert days in association with the Regional Smog Alert Response Plan. Your Supervisor can provide further information. Your cooperation is needed and appreciated in fostering our commitment to the environment. - 48 - HEALTH & SAFETY The Niagara Parks Commission is committed to ensuring that all staff work in a safe and healthy environment. The Health, Safety and Environment Department provide consultation and support services to NPC on all related matters. The department is a resource to all staff who require assistance and/or input on their health and safety practices, programs and safe work procedures. The department provides information regarding legislation, regulations, policies, programs and safe work procedures. This includes a number of training programs to ensure that everyone is able to work in a manner that is both healthy and safe. For more information, visit our Employee website or contact the HSE Department. IN SUMMARY We hope this manual has answered most of your questions about employment with NPC and has increased your knowledge of what is expected of you during your period of employment. If you would like additional information or have any questions speak to your Supervisor and/or call the Human Resources Office (905) 353-5418. You may also visit the Human Resources Office at: Niagara College, Maid of the Mist Campus 5881 Dunn Street, Niagara Falls, ON L2G 2N9 Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. (with the exception of holidays) Find out lots more by visiting our website www.employee.niagaraparks.com • Enter your name and employee ID number written exactly as they appear on your pay stub. - 49 - KEY NPC PHONE NUMBERS (all with area code 905) Bus Management Table Rock 356-4561 Butterfly Conservatory 358-0025 Edgewaters Tap & Grill 356-2217 Elements on the Falls Restaurant 354-3631 Health & Safety 353-5423 Human Resources 353-5418 Journey Behind the Falls 354-1551 Legends on the Niagara 295-9595 Licensing Rapidsview 357-9340 Maid of the Mist Gift Store 357-7313 Oak Hall Administration 356-2241 Oak Hall Par 3 Golf 358-6418 Old Fort Erie 871-0540 Payroll (extension 215) 356-2241 People Mover 357-9340 Police 356-1338 Queenston Heights Restaurant 262-4276 Queen Victoria Place Gift Shop 358-5935 School of Horticulture 356-8554 Table Rock Retail 358-3268 Whirlpool Aero Car 354-5711 Whirlpool Golf Course 356-1140 White Water Walk 374-1221 - 50 - Notes: - 51 - Notes: - 52 -
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text:
Cookin with The Columns: Food to fight back against the spring chill
Last week I told you about going to the chili lunch at Good Shepherd Catholic Church.
I asked for the recipe for the White Bean Chili because it was so delicious so Lynn Sturgill was kind enough to get it for me from Sue Brower, who had made it for the church. It was thick and chunky like red chili usually is, but made with chicken and great northern beans. Charles especially liked it and hope you will too.
Thanks, Sue!
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subset: commoncrawl


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You will enjoy Vienna`s best sites of interest in walking distance like Museumsquartier, Kunsthistorisches Museum, Hofburgcastle, Opera, St. Stephens and feel at home in this cosy, elegant apartment in the centric surroundings of a pedestrian area.
Space where guests can cook their own meals
Towels, bed sheets, soap, and toilet paper
Space where guests can cook their own meals
Towels, bed sheets, soap, and toilet paper
Central heating or a heater in the listing
In the building, free or for a fee
In the building, free or for a fee
Continuous access in the listing
Breakfast is provided.
The listing can accommodate a gathering of 25 or more attendees
Easy access to the building and listing for guests in wheelchairs
Private or Shared
Free, in the building or nearby
Posted emergency information and resources
The Space
Completely refurbished cosy apartment ( 60sqm) in Art Nouveau house situated in a superb centric location at Spittelberg, a pedestrian area with lots of restaurants, little shops, a Christmas market in December, outdoor activities and festivals in summer. Walking distance ( 5-10 min.) to the heart of the city, St. Stephens, Hofburg palace, all theatres, museums, Klimt exhibition, concert halls and opera. 2 min. walk to Underground ( U2, U3), tram and busses. 30 minutes to Vienna Airport. Many parks nearby for jogging, supermarkets next door.
Wireless Internet, 62 inch Satellite TV full HD screen. Parking nearby.
It will be a pleasure to be your host and try to help you with inside informations. An extra guide can be provided to show you around.
Room type: Entire apartment
Bed type: king size double bed ( 180x210cm) in bedroom
double sofabed ( 180x 200cm) in living room
living room is equipped with art nouveau and modern design furniture
accomodates: 1-4 persons
fully equipped kitchen
WLAN Internet + PC + Printer !!!
security safe
extra people: charge of 25 euros/person for 3rd and 4th person
Minimum stay: 2 nights
security deposit: 400 Euros
cleaning fee: 50 euros
State: Wien
Country: Austria
Size: 60sqm
Cancellation: strict
Nearby you have got a lot of public transport, in 2 min. walk you reach the underground U2, U3, buses in 1 min. walk, trams in 3-5 min. walk. So besides of walking you can also reach all sites by using public transport ( e.g. only two stops to St. Stephens).
My place is fine for exploring Vienna because of it`s great location, besides of the special flair of the elegant and cosy apartment. I am sure you will feel at home!
Guest Access
The whole apartment is for private use of our guests.
Public transport and garages close by.
Free car parking on the street only on Saturday, Sunday and holidays.
Interaction with Guests
I always communicate with my guests from the beginning, giving them special informations about the surroundings of the apartment and how to get there. Also normally I will be present personally, if it is not possible I always send persons of confidence to see my guests into the apartment and give the necessary explanations.
A great advantage is that my family lives in the same building. So if you have questions to ask during your stay, you will have a helping person at your side.
The Neighborhood
The neighborhood of the apartment is fantastic as it is an pedestrian area with lots of restaurants and places of leisure. Also because you can reach almost every sight of interest within walking distance.
In 2 min. walk you reach the underground lines U2 and U3 and in 4 min. walk all the ring tram lines. So you can get everywhere in Vienna by public transport within only minutes.
Getting around
There are some public garages for parking. If you park on the street, it also costs except on weekends. But it is more stressless to use garages which are situated at the main entrance roads into Vienna, on cheaper fares than directly in the city.
Other Things to Note
You will find all the essentials in the apartment like sheets ( beds already properly prepared), towels, hairdryer, soap etc.
As the apartment is situated in a house where other parties live, please reduce noise to the normal level between10pm and 7a.m and always be aware to treat the rented home as if you were in your own home.
Please place garbage in the asigned bins in the courtyard in the ground floor behind the house and paper waste in the bin besides the entrance of the house.
Sorry, pets are not allowed.
Sorry, smoking is not allowed in the apartment
This is the second time I have stayed at Eva's wonderful apartment in Vienna. It is such a great place to stay - everywhere is walkable - and the apartment itself is lovely and always kept in pristine condition - it has everything you need. Eva leaves great maps and details about local shops etc - and we meet easily to hand over keys on arrival.
I fully recommend this to anyone wanting to visit Vienna and hope to return before too long.
Eva's lovely apartment is the perfect base in beautiful Vienna. We felt incredibly welcome, with the little touches such as chocolates and restaurant suggestions really enhancing our holiday. Highly recommended!
Viennese flair of this apartment is real. Location, furniture, amenities are outstanding. The host has provided with many information regarding cultural Vienna, cuisine and sightseeing. Also, shopping areas of Kaertnerstrasse or Mariahilfenstrasse are within walking distance. As our flights were very early at arrival and quite late at departure, the host graciously accepted early check-in and late check-out since availability permitted.
Der Aufenthalt in Evas Wohnung war perfekt. Sie hat uns sehr freundlich empfangen. Dabei hat sie uns Tipps geben, was man in der Näheren Umgebung machen kann und uns die stilvoll eingerichtete Wohnung gezeigt. Die Wohnung sieht in real genau so gut wie auf den Bildern aus. Für eine Städtetripp ist die Wohnung einfach perfekt. Wir kommen gerne wieder.
Wonderful apartment with great location, clean environment and comfortable room. Eva is friendly and hospitable, it's very kind of her to send us guide books before arrival, so that we could plan our travel more detailed. What I love Eva's apartment most is the location, it's very close to the underground, Christmas market and museums. A fantastic experience with Eva and Airbnb.
位置绝佳,设备齐全。公寓就在地铁站的附近,周边有非常多的餐馆,咖啡馆和超市。而且离圣诞集市,博物馆和市中心的景点也很近。房东热情优雅,非常细心的在我们出发之前就发送了关于维也纳的 guide book 给我们介绍。非常推荐!
It is a great apartment in excellent location. It is easily accessible by underground train from the Westbahnhof and Eva gave us detailed direction. The place is clean, tastefully furnished. It is exactly as shown in the photo. We highly recommend this place.
Evas hübsche Wohnung liegt im sehr netten Stadtteil Spittelberg, nur wenige Gehminuten entfernt vom Museumsquartier und fußläufig zu den Sehenswürdigkeiten des Wiener Stadtzentrums. In den Gässchen rund um das Haus findet vor Weihnachten der "Weihnachtsmarkt am Spittelberg" statt. Hübsche Cafés, Restaurants und charmante kleine Läden sind an jeder Ecke zu finden. Die Wohnung ist perfekt ausgestattet (vom Internetzugang bis zur Spülmaschine), sehr gepflegt, hell und ruhig. Eva ist eine sehr freundliche und entgegenkommende Gastgeberin, die uns bereits im Vorfeld unseres Aufenthalts mit vielen nützlichen Reiseinformationen versorgt hat. Wir würden jederzeit wieder bei Eva buchen. Vielen Dank für den angenehmen Aufenthalt in Wien!
This host has 13 reviews for other properties.View Other Reviews
I am a pianist and manager of a publishing company.
I could not live without my piano, music in general, different cultural events. Therefore Vienna is such a wonderful place to live. It gives a large variety of culture. I also like good movies like the pianist. Also picture galleries and modern art. And I love to dance.
I like to travel very much, my favorite destinations: Italy, specially Venice, New York, London, Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires.
My favorite books: all of the great Russians like Dostojevski, Tolstoj
For food I prefer the mediterrenian kitchen and the fabulous Austrian sweet dishes like Apfelstrudel or Topfenstrudel.
My life motto is. "Take it easy" but I sometimes can`t follow it.


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Order now: 800.722.0905
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Assortment of Easter Chocolates and Candy
Basket of Goodies for All!
Children's Easter Basket
Childs Easter Basket
Easter Basket Fun
Easter Bucket of Sweet Treats
Children's Easter Baster
Easter Basket for all ages!
© 2014 Phillips Candy House, All Rights Reserved


text: You are viewing Behind the scenes of Easy to Assemble - Season 3 - 7 of 9 Videos Hollywood Ep.2 Jan Jansson - Behind the Scenes of Easy to Assemble By Sounds like Peppa Jan goes behind the scenes again in Hollywood. This time get a little taste of the... more »Jan goes behind the scenes again in Hollywood. This time get a little taste of the Swedes of Easy to Assemble. They do a Swedish folk dance, just for you! « less Published December 16, 2011 8 views More Info » Full Credits Sounds like Peppa Uploader Stats & Data 3 Funny Votes 0 Die Votes 8 Views Published December 16, 2011 Categories: Web Series Clean Comedy Keywords: Jan Jansson Peppe Holmsten Easy to assemble hollywood web series Illeana Douglas Hollywood comedy show travel Sweden Swedish celebrity IKEA Up Next: Behind the scenes with Jan Jansson - Eric Lange AUTOPLAY Up Next In: 10 Jon Benjamin Has A Van: You Can't Shoot Here Baby Fight! The Committee Ep 1: Bad Dog w/ Alison Brie & Rich Sommer The Ed Hardy Boyz 2: The Case of When That Hot Filipina Girl Lost Her Tramp Stamp At Mini-Golf Follow Facebook Twitter Tumblr Instagram Browse Related Comments Behind the scenes of Easy to Assemble - Season 3 9+ more View All ▶ 30+ more View All ▶ Sounds like Peppa Vaguely Related Videos Vaguely RelatedPics & Words Advertisement Advertisement From Around the Web ZergNet


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Launcher Update
Get the Desktop App for Battle.net Now
- All your games in 1 place
- Log in once
- Automatic game updates
You've been there.
You've seen the sun set on the desert and heard the sounds of mortars and rocket shells in the night. You know the taste of sand on an MRE. You know the sound of an A-10 as it takes off for a strafing run. You know the taste of salt in your mouth as your Zodiac pushes for the beach.
You've done that.
You didn't get just a lousy T-shirt. You got wounds, scars, memories and a brotherhood. For you, it wasn't a game. It was a job. It was a job you volunteered for- many times, more than once.
Welcome to [BTDT]'Been There Done That'.
We are a group of veterans, active, inactive and retired, who game, socialize and continue the brotherhood. We don't care about your skill level, your gender, your age or if you were combat deployed. We don't care if you were a Soldier, Sailor, Airman or Marine.
We only ask one question. Did you serve?
We'd love for you to apply. Why? Because you've Been There and Done That.
So have we.
This group is for anyone who has served regardless of branch or country.
While we do associate with any player, to become a member is reserved only for Veterans.
Stats 1725 registered users, roughly 300 active accounts currently.
if its PS3, Xbox, or PC is your platform. There is members across any game you can think of. For PC members we have a mumble server.
:: Site / Forum Status ::
Members[Forum]: 430
Threads[Forum]: 1,786
Posts[Forum]: 22,402
Views[Forum]: 233,391
Entire site has just short of 100,000 hits.
429 likes on Facebook
Some of the major game we are involved in are, but not limited to
Call of duty
Arma 2
PlanetSide 2
Note: This community is opened to any skill level for any game, as long as the player has served. However there is groups in select games that have developed competitive teams.
edit : http://www.btdt.enjin.com/home Homepage
*Last updated 6/11/2013
Edited by SPJ on 6/11/2013 4:52 PM PDT
Afghanistan Vet seeking a clan. Army MP.
sent you a friend request.
Threats of violence. We take these seriously and will alert the proper authorities.
Posts containing personal information about other players. This includes physical addresses, e-mail addresses, phone numbers, and inappropriate photos and/or videos.
Harassing or discriminatory language. This will not be tolerated.


text:
Top Linksmain detailsbiographyby votesphoto galleryquotes
Filmographiesby yearby typeby ratingsby votesby TV seriesby genreby keyword
Did You Know?photo galleryquotes
Tony Kirby (Character)
from You Can't Take It With You (1938)
Alternate Names:
FilmographyEdit Credits
- "Great Performances"
- You Can't Take It with You (1984) TV episode, Played by Nicolas Surovy
- You Can't Take It with You (1979) (TV) Played by Barry Bostwick (as Anthony Kirby, Jr.)
- You Can't Take It With You (1938) Played by James Stewart
Additional Details
Plot Keywords:
Fun Stuff
Professor: What about you, Alice? Have you a family tree?
Tony Kirby: My dear sir, don't you know that a sycamore *is* a tree?
See more »
You may correct errors and omissions on this page directly. Clicking the 'Update' button will take you through a step-by-step process.


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Diversified financial
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
|The topic of this article may not meet Wikipedia's general notability guideline. (August 2013)
|This article needs additional citations for verification. (August 2013)
Diversified financials is a specific category of the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) that is used by the financial community. It includes a range of consumer and commercially oriented companies offering a wide variety of financial products and services, including various lending products (such as home equity loans and credit cards), insurance, and securities and investment products.
Many of these firms in this category are non-banking financial companies, specialist organisations like stock exchanges or financial holding companies that were created through consolidation of banks, insurance companies and brokerage firms to become universal banks. [1]
- ^ "Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS)". Stocks For Beginners. Retrieved August 29, 2013.
|This economics-related article is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it.


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Fall 2014
Mathematical Statistics I
Course code: MA127-02 | CRN: 20299 | Credits: 3 | Seats: 32 / 30
This course runs from January 22, 2015 to May 14, 2015 on W from 9:15 am to 10:15 am
This course is designed to explore topics from descriptive and inferential statistics: graphing, measures of central tendency and variation, probability, Central Limit Theorem, estimation, the binomial distribution, the normal distribution and hypothesis testing. The laboratory provides hands-on technology experience using a statistical software package. Prerequisite: MA 095 or sufficient placement score.Online sections of this course will also require (in addition to the textbook/material requirements:1. The textbook is, Elementary Statistics Picturing the World, by Larson/Farber, 6th Edition, hard copy or online version available through the Herkimer College bookstore or on the Pearson website.2. Minitab Express Software (six month rental required). Minitab rentals:OnTheHub offers rental options for all of the Minitab products including the new Minitab Express for Mac or for PC. Students can purchase on-line and download straight to their pc. You will be required to provide a campus email address (.edu) or other proof of your academic status. OnTheHub offers a 6-month rental for $29.99 or a 12-month rental for $49.99. To purchase simply go to www.OnTheHub.com/minitab. Within the Minitab program are videos to get you started, how-to guides and a data set library.3. Pearson MyStatLab Access Code which is available through the Herkimer College bookstore or on the Pearson website.
Instructor: Joshua Belisle


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PHOTO GALLERY: Presidential candidate meets with students, faculty at Columbia College
January 13, 2014 | 9:08 p.m. CSTScott Dalrymple answers question at Columbia College during a Monday afternoon forum in which he met with students. He is one of two finalists for the position of president at Columbia College.
RELATED STORIES: Columbia College presidential finalist answers questions from students, faculty


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What is it worth in money | Free Values | Buying or Selling. What is it worth.net is a useful website to help you value any item. It's all for free and we think and ... - read more
There is a study on melatonin and children with autism by the Vanderbilt University Medical Center published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, by ... - read more
Please vote if the answer you were given helped you or not, thats the best way to improve our algorithm. You can also submit an answer or search documents about what is normal temperature for a 3 year old child.


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Backup Exec
Technical Solution
Most Popular | Most Recent
Version : Environment :
How to obtain the installation source download and license keys for the Backup Exec core product, agents, and options
Doc. ID: TECH51162 | 2014-07-15
Backup Exec 2010 installations fails to extract VC 8.0 SP1 runtime package. Error code 1603.
Doc. ID: TECH150247 | 2014-07-09
Error "Unable to authenticate with the user and password information given for
" appears when installing Backup Exec on a virtual machine
Doc. ID: TECH179724 | 2014-07-07
After Upgrade from 2014 Beta 1 to 2014 Beta 2 will result in Catalog error ODBC access error when trying to Catalog media
Doc. ID: TECH222254 | 2014-06-24
Backup Exec Pre-installation Environment Check reports error V-225-290 during the upgrade of a beta version
Doc. ID: TECH217305 | 2014-06-23
Command line installation of Backup Exec with PowerShell 2.0 fails if quotes are used around arguments
Doc. ID: TECH212464 | 2014-06-23
Backup Exec Database files are missing during upgrade
Doc. ID: TECH217319 | 2014-06-23
Backup Exec installation fails with a BadImageFormatException Microsoft Windows error message
Doc. ID: TECH212462 | 2014-06-23
Backup Exec upgrade fails with error -2067920940 when installing the SQL Express BKUPEXEC instance
Doc. ID: TECH216812 | 2014-06-18
Backup Exec installer does not change the service credential for the Backup Exec database
Doc. ID: TECH212394 | 2014-06-18
Before or after an upgrade/migration to Backup Exec 2012 or above, Shadow Copy Component file system selections need to be removed from all existing backups and backup sets
Doc. ID: TECH179966 | 2014-06-03
Archiving Option index files location displays an error on the Backup Exec server 2014 during reinstallation
Doc. ID: TECH216763 | 2014-06-02
Backup Exec Debug Monitor 2014 requires Microsoft .Net Framework 4.0
Doc. ID: TECH217127 | 2014-06-02
Backup Exec 2012 and later versions reports the Backup Exec Desktop and Laptop Option feature has been detected and must be migrated or uninstalled before the installation can continue
Doc. ID: TECH180330 | 2014-06-02
An operating system error caused the Backup Exec installation program to stop responding
Doc. ID: TECH212156 | 2014-06-02
Japanese characters are garbled in the installation log for the Backup Exec Agent for Windows
Doc. ID: TECH216492 | 2014-05-28
The installation of Backup Exec to a case sensitive SQL Instance is either blocked by the Pre-install Checker or completes successfully, but the Backup Exec Server Service fails to start afterward.
Doc. ID: TECH51383 | 2014-05-14
Backup Exec installation fails with "Failed to install SQL Express BKUPEXEC instance error 2"
Doc. ID: TECH64345 | 2014-05-12
How to troubleshoot the error "V-225-53: ERROR: Failed to install SQL Express BKUPEXEC Instance" that occurs when attempting to install Backup Exec
Doc. ID: TECH56006 | 2014-05-07
Remote Agent fails to install - Error 1402. Could not open key: UNKNOWN\Components\GUID\GUID
Doc. ID: TECH147021 | 2014-04-25


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The Ukrainian government expects moderate inflation in 2013. But this will lead to a marked rise in food prices, reassured Prime Minister Mykola Azarov (pictured).
© Courtesy
Statistics Service: Deflation in Ukraine, at 0.2%, seen for first time in 10 years
Analyst: New composition of government not to be much different from previous one
forUm: Azarov wants Ukraine population growth trend be irreversible
Central Bank Head: Inflation in Russia will be 6.5%-7% this year
The Ukrainian government will prevent deflation in 2013, Ukrainian Premier Mykola Azarov has said.
"We're expecting to have rather moderate inflation. And we will prevent the deflation we had this year for sure," he said on Friday while visiting Interfax-Ukraine on the occasion of the agency's 20th anniversary.
According to the premier, the government will actively credit big investment projects and the economy, which could result in "an increase in growth of inflation."
He added that Ukrainians should not be afraid of inflation, as prices of industrial products will grow, while spurts in inflation will not noticeably influence food prices.
EU Business: EU reviews its policy towards its eastern neighbours
World in Ukraine: Belgian ambassador bullish on Ukraine despite war, recession
Ukraine's Soviet legacy shows in outdated military logistics
Bloomberg: Ukraine Exim Bank seeks three-month delay to eurobond amid talks
China confirms $15 billion investment in Ukraine's construction market
Industrial production 32 percent down in Donetsk region in 2014
World in Ukraine: Journalists rate Ukraine's best friends in Brussels
© 1995–2015 Public Media


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But why is the dead man wearing his son's overcoat? And who was the impassioned love-letter in the pocket for? Before Poirot can answer these questions, the case is turned upside down by the discovery of a second, identically murdered corpse...
©2008 HarperCollins Publishers; (P)2008 HarperCollins Publishers
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"Traditional who done it"
An old favourite, a comfortable "listen again" book; for me, it never gets old.
That Hastings finds his true love is a charming bonus.
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text:
Eighty-Three Percent of Teens Have Unsupervised Access to Prescription Medications
Jim LiebeltJim is Senior Writer, Editor and Researcher for the HomeWord Center for Youth and Family at Azusa Pacific University. Jim has over 25 years of experience as a youth and family ministry specialist, and has been on the HomeWord staff since 1998. He has served over the years as a pastor, author, youth ministry trainer, adjunct college instructor and speaker. Jim's culture blog and parenting articles appear on HomeWord.com. Jim is a contributing author of culture and parenting articles to Crosswalk.com. Jim and his wife Jenny live in Olympia, WA.
- 2013 Jun 17
A new study in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that 83.4 percent of teens had unsupervised access to their prescription medications at home including 73.7 percent taking pain relief, anti-anxiety, stimulant and sedative medications that have the potential for abuse.
"It was surprising to me that parents were not storing medications securely because I expected them to be locked up and for parents to administer the medications," said Paula Ross-Derow, Ph.D., of the University of Michigan's Institute for Research on Women and Gender.
She and her colleagues explored the supervision of prescribed medications among 230 adolescents in 8th and 9th grade, using an online survey and in-person interview.
The researchers acknowledged that it is possible parents and guardians may not believe that their children would engage in non-medical use or give away their prescription medications and therefore do not take steps to secure them.
"Dr. Ross-Durow's paper shows that the majority of adolescents who are prescribed controlled medications have easy, unsupervised access to them," said Silvia Martins, M.D., Ph.D., associate professor of epidemiology at Columbia University. "This is of great concern, since it not only can lead to the possibility of overdose of medications with potential abuse liability, but also can contribute to diversion of these medications and nonmedical use by their peers."
"Parents don't recognize that other kids come into their homes and can open a cabinet or see meds on the kitchen counter and take them," Ross-Durow explained. "Teenagers may give them away—thinking they're helping a friend—and they don't see this as a risky behavior, or some may sell the medications. Visitors in the home may simply steal them."
Source: News Medical


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Destiny Palms Hotel Maingate West
Located in Kissimmee (Disney's Maingate West), Destiny Palms Hotel Maingate West is close to Lake Davenport and Disney's Animal Kingdom® Theme Park. Additional area attractions include Walt Disney World® and Disney's Hollywood Studios®.
Hotel Features.
Wireless Internet access is complimentary in public areas. There is a business center on site. A complimentary breakfast is served each morning. Additional amenities include an outdoor pool, tour/ticket assistance, and laundry facilities. This is a smoke-free property.
The 100 air-conditioned guestrooms at Destiny Palms Hotel Maingate West include coffee/tea makers and hair dryers. Guests can use the in-room complimentary wireless and wired high-speed Internet access. Rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs with cable channels. All accommodations provide desks and phones; free local calls are offered (restrictions may apply). Bathrooms offer showers and designer toiletries. Additional amenities include irons/ironing boards and blackout drapes/curtains. Housekeeping is offered daily.
For the price it was good. Quiet and a free breakfast. Room smelled musty but it was…
Time to replace the Capet
Enter dates to check prices
Hotel Info: 866-539-8117from $50
- Standard Room, 1 King Bed
- Standard Room, 2 Queen Beds
Recommended hotels
At a glance
Key facts
Hotel size
- This hotel has 100 rooms
- This hotel is arranged over 3 floors
- Check-in time starts at 3 PM
- Check-out time is 11 AM
- Express check-in
Required at check in
- Credit card or cash deposit required
- Government-issued photo ID required
- Minimum check-in age is 21
Travelling with others
- Pets not allowed
- Free WiFi in public areas
- Free WiFi and wired Internet access in rooms
- Accessible parking
- RV/bus/truck parking
Other information
- Smoke-free property
- Resort fee included
In the hotel
- Free continental breakfast daily
- Coffee/tea in the lobby
- Outdoor pool
- Ecotours nearby
- Golf lessons available nearby
- Golfing nearby
- Hiking/biking trails nearby
- Business center
- 24-hour front desk
- Tours/ticket assistance
- Laundry facilities
- Number of buildings/towers - 1
- Elevator/lift
- Television in lobby
- Disabled parking
- Accessible path of travel
- Braille or raised signage
- Accessible bathroom
- In-room accessibility
- Roll-in shower
In the room
- Climate control
- Air conditioning
- Coffee/tea maker
- Iron/ironing board
- Blackout drapes/curtains
- Private bathroom
- Shower only
- Designer toiletries
- Hair dryer
- Flat-screen TV
- Cable TV channels
- Desk
- Free WiFi
- Free local calls
- Refrigerator
- Daily housekeeping
- Connecting/adjoining rooms available
Destiny Palms Hotel Maingate West's small print
Also known as
- Destiny Palms Kissimmee
- Destiny Palms Hotel Maingate West Orlando
- Destiny Palms Hotel
- Destiny Palms Hotel Maingate West
The property has connecting/adjoining rooms, which are subject to availability and can be requested by contacting the property using the number on the booking confirmation.
Mandatory fees
The charges below are included in the total price displayed:
- Resort fee
We have included all charges provided to us by this hotel. However, charges can vary, for example, based on length of stay or the room you book.


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See a narrow family room transformed!
Tour a fun and feminine space.
Tour the condo of Holt Renfrew's Lisa Tant.
See budget-chic guru Michael Penney's office makeover and learn how to make a DIY wallpaper-and-glass ink blotter, plus fabric-covered pencil holders and file folders. Try these easy projects this weekend to organize your office in style!


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Malaysia Open Set To Begin on Tuesday
Five Americans will hit the courts at the Maybank Malaysia Open this week in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
American Trio Ready for Superseries Stop in India
Three Americans will compete at the YONEX Sunrise India Open this week in New Delhi, India this week.
2015 USA Badminton YONEX Collegiate Nationals Begin Saturday in California
The 2015 USA Badminton YONEX Collegiate Nationals are set to take place this weekend in Milpitas, California.
USA Badminton Masters International Championships Underway in North Carolina
The 2015 USA Badminton Masters International Championships are set to begin Wednesday at Badminton NC.
Americans Take Home Two Golds, One Silver in Brazil
Americans took home hardware in three divisions at Brazil's III Mercosul International over the weekend.