Yet-To-Be Built N.F. Convention Centre "Open For Business"

 We are open for business!

 That was the message Wednesday (May 7) as staff of Niagara's new Convention and Civic Centre (N-C-C-C) unveiled their marketing plan. It was a party atmosphere at the Fallsview Casino resort, one N-C-C-C President and General Manager Kerry Painter hopes will continue.

 The branding of the Convention and Civic Centre is "UNconventional". Painter says it is a perfect fit as the centre will strive to deliver memorable and unique experiences to their delegates. Painter adds the vitality of Niagara Falls and the surrounding region enhances the branding. Painter says she wants the center to be fun for residents too. Her staff is looking to plan events like a Mardi Gras Ball and a New Year's Eve Bash for locals.

 N-C-C-C staff expect to break ground next spring and to be fully operational in the early part of 2011. But Painter says they have already booked two conventions and are looking for more.

 Founding President and Project Director of the N-C-C-C, Doctor Dragan Matovic says they are well on their way to success with the site purchased. You can expect to see a design plan by summer. Doctor Matovic says the centre will be a real shot in the arm to Niagara's economy, creating 1800 jobs and pumping in 93 million dollars. That is welcome news to Mayor Ted Salci who cannot wait to see the project realized.

 For now, N-C-C-C staff will do their planning in temporary offices at the Fallsview Casino Resort.