the livable city by Cai Sepulis

guelphchamber.com MARCH/APRIL 2016

Follow the leaders.

Alan Mason of TrilliumWest Real Estate Brokerage burning the midnight oil

fusion homes • trillium west • bunny safari art gallery of guelph • reid’s heritage homes cai sepulis • kiam • granite homes • u of g co-op speed river new balance track & field club trade force tech • u of g athletics • & more

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GUELPH’S HOME OF LUXURY

TOWNS

PUBLISHER’S LETTER On Monday, January 11th, The Globe & Mail

doors. Twenty-six staff were let go, and an entire

published an article announcing to the nation

community has been left reeling as we try to

that Guelph is ‘Canada’s jobs powerhouse.’ Citing

grasp what it means to be a city without a daily

a recent study by BMO Nesbitt Burns, the

print paper. (Indeed, can we even call ourselves

newspaper’s Michael Babad distilled Guelph’s

a city at all without a proper daily? Or have we

seeming recipe of success. The key ingredients? A

become a town? Or village, even? The Royal

diverse job base rooted in manufacturing; higher

Village?)

education institutions; the health care sector; and an entrepreneurial spirit supported by organizations including the Guelph-Wellington Business Enterprise Centre and Innovation Guelph.

(Babad’s omission of the Guelph

Chamber is duly noted as an honest mistake.) Guelph: a veritable success story. On Friday, January 29th, the Guelph Mercury published its last print edition. Having operated since the founding of our nation, recent steep declines in advertising revenues were cited as the primary reason why our community’s only daily – a paper that provided pertinent local news and sparked infinite debate around many a water

Guelph: a veritable success story – albeit with

there’s nary a crook nor a cranny in this fantastical

caveats?

city where you won’t find folks devoting their

These sixty pages you’re holding right now – sumptuously tactile; locally printed; lovingly laid

life’s work building onto the foundations of our Royal, Livable City.

out – posits a strong thesis: that Guelph not only

Isn’t it time we follow these leaders? After all,

retains its title as The Royal City but also enjoys

as local photographer and everyday hero Dean

an elite position as a truly Livable City. How so?

Palmer notes: ‘We run faster with others.’

The proof is on the pages. From our city’s forward-thinking homebuilders to our university’s innovative programming to our City’s valiant efforts at community collaboration

We certainly do. Sincerely,

to our artists’ strong track records as active

Chris Tiessen, Publisher  @chris_tiessen

participants in the creation of Guelph’s identity,

 @oliverstreet.photo

cooler and dining room table – shuttered its

Creating Unique and Inspiring Restaurants

our Roots, foods, wines + brews

let’s Eat! Downtown Guelph miijidaa.ca |

Downtown Guelph woolwicharrow.ca

Enjoy Our Carbon Neutral Restaurants

MARCH/APRIL 2016

CONTENTS 8. mapping Guelph: part one – Bunny Safari 12. More Than Name Deep: The Art Gallery Of Guelph Offers A Space For Community 14. Death of A Salesman: Alan Mason & TrilliumWest Are Revolutionizing Real Estate 18. 5 Questions With Kristel Manes

the livable city is a special joint issue of the

19. TradeForce Tech: An Integrated Energy Solutions Company

Guelph Chamber’s

20. ‘We Run Faster With Others’: How Guelph’s Running Community Changes Lives

Moving Business Forward &

21. As An Expert – Meridian’s Marie Furfaro

col.lab.o.rate magazines.

22. Building More Livable Cities From The Community Outwards 24. Always LEED-ing. Never Following: How Reid’s Heritage Homes Pushes The Envelope

CHRIS TIESSEN publisher CAi SEPULiS designer LAUREN KHALIL contributing writer For advertising opportunities, contact chris@guelphchamber.com

26. Locally Manufactured. Globally Driven: How DENSO Is Contributing To Our Livable City 30. Game Changer: How Fusion Homes’ The Metalworks Is Channeling Guelph’s Past 33. Legacies & Livability: Doors Open Guelph 2016 35. University of Guelph Co-op: Recognizing Local Employers As Catalysts For Growth 36. Grow Guelph: The Work Continues 38. mapping Guelph: part two – Cai Sepulis 41. OpenEd At The University 43. Leading By Example: The Chamber’s Corporate Challenge Supporting Syrian Refugees 44. Helping Grow Greener Communities: Sustainable Real Estate At The University 46. West Coast-Inspired Southend Living: Granite Homes’ Arkell Lofts & Gallery Towns 49. Building A Livable City: Impact Investing, Shared Value & Social Entrepreneurship 50. Bensol Briefing: What’s The Real ROI On Your Group RSP? 52. Athletics At The University: Growing A Happier, Healthier, More Livable City 54. mapping Guelph: part three – KIAM 57. Easy Access To The Services That Matter To Your Life? That’s A Livable City. 58. Community Collaborator. Community Builder: How Our University Strengthens Our Livable City

GUELPH CHAMBER EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE: Carly O’Brien (Chair), University of Guelph – OVC Michael Henley (1st Vice Chair), Miller Thomson LLP Stefan Wiesen (2nd Vice Chair), Intrigue Media Amy Kendall (Past Chair), Conestoga College Kimberly Aitken (Treasurer), RLB LLP

GUELPH CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Kevin Boon, Innovation Guelph Melanie Lang, University of Guelph, CBaSE Patrick Wieland, RBC Jackie Ooms, Bensol Consulting Inc. Leonard Sharman, The Co-operators Mark Stoddart, Linamar Corporation

GUELPH CHAMBER TEAM: Kithio Mwanzia, President & CEO, kithio@guelphchamber.com Wendy Smith, Senior Manager, Operations, wendy@guelphchamber.com Chris Tiessen, Manager, Marketing & Communications, chris@guelphchamber.com Shanen Brazeau, Financial Administrator, shanen@guelphchamber.com Bette Ann Cannon, Member Services Coordinator, bette_ann@guelphchamber.com Ryan Christodoulou, Member Engagement Associate, ryan@guelphchamber.com Kim Kataja, Executive Assistant, kim@guelphchamber.com Ellyn Lusis, Graphic Designer, Ellyn@guelphchamber.com Lauren Khalil, Communications & Public Affairs Specialist, lauren@guelphchamber.com Jane Wielhorski, Event Coordinator, jane@guelphchamber.com >> 6 GUELPHCHAMBER.COM

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

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>> 7

ARTISTS IN THE LIVABLE CITY

mapping Guelph: part one

BUNNY SAFARI BY LAUREN KHALIL

WITH CHRIS TIESSEN

‘..using parts of our own local history as conversational pieces..’ >> 8

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

HERE’S NO DENYING THAT OUR FANTASTIC COMMUNITY IS FILLED WITH INCREDIBLY TALENTED CREATIVE TYPES, ECCENTRIC PERSONALITIES, AND COLOURFUL CHARACTERS MOST OF WHOM YOU CAN FIND ON ANY GIVEN AFTERNOON OR EVENING HANGING OUT ACROSS OUR VIBRANT CITY AT PLANET BEAN, THE COMMON, WITH THE GRAIN, THE CORNERSTONE, RED BRICK, ERIC THE BAKER, THE WOOLY OR ANY OTHER BRILLIANT GUELPH BUSINESS. And yet local artist Bunny Safari still manages to stand out in even the most creative, eccentric and colourful crowds.

>>continued

Bunny Safari in her backyard pottery studio somewhere in the heart of our city

#guelphbiz

>> 9

ARTISTS IN THE LIVABLE CITY

Bunny cradles two of her ‘Neighbourhood Mugs’ – her ‘babies’

Not because of her unique name – although it

imprinted in vintage letterpress with the name

As Bunny notes: ‘Folks were excited that these

certainly doesn’t hurt – but because of her utterly

of a particular neighbourhood depicted on the

mugs displayed the streets where they’d

genuine passion for this place we call home.

mug, these pieces are Bunny’s unique way of,

grown up, or gone to university, or visited their

A passion that’s ubiquitous in Bunny’s larger-

as she suggests, ‘using parts of our own local

grandparents on Sunday afternoons. Guelph

than-life personality, in her seeming infinite

history as conversational pieces to engage with

residents – and even those individuals who

number of creative ideas, and especially in her

community members who have connections to

used to live in Guelph but moved away for some

artistic output that beautifully encapsulates the

these neighbourhoods.’

reason or other – seem to feel a particularly

romantic and nostalgic sides of The Royal City. Indeed, Bunny’s work – both as photographer and sculptor – are all about mapping an ‘earlier’ Guelph both stylistically (in the case of Bunny’s use of medium format film to shoot her extensive portrait series) and literally (as in the case of her series of mugs imprinted with historical maps of Guelph neighbourhoods).

When Bunny first got the idea to create these mugs, and began producing the first batch that depicted mapped sections of ‘The Ward’ –

strong connection to this city and community. More than in other cities, it seems.’ She continues: ‘I certainly do.’

perhaps Guelph’s most storied neighbourhood

Since these first mugs were produced and

– it quickly became apparent that she was on to

sold, Bunny’s moved on to other Guelph

something. Indeed, when Bunny posted images

neighbourhoods. First Exhibition Park. Next

of these first pieces on facebook just before last

Sunny Acre, Old University and Brooklyn Hill. ‘I

year’s Art on the Street juried show and sale,

love being able to give people a piece of their

And while Bunny’s photography certainly

more than a handful of residents ‘reserved’ their

history,’ states Bunny. ‘It connects them to their

deserves

mugs before they’d even gone on sale. (I ended

city. It connects me to them. And it grounds us all

up buying three of them – Chris.)

in community.’ <<

attention,

it’s

her

hand-crafted

‘Neighbourhood Mugs’ that have really struck a nerve with Guelphites. Each stencilled with a section of a 1952 map of our city and

 bunnysafaripottery.com  @bunnysafari

>> 10

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

Cheer Up

TWStore Opens 03.2016 #guelphbiz

>> 11

FEATURE ARTICLE CULTURE IN THE LIVABLE CITY

MORE THAN NAME DEEP: THE ART GALLERY OF GUELPH OFFERS A SPACE FOR COMMUNITY BY LAUREN KHALIL

F YOU’VE BEEN IN GUELPH FOR ANY LENGTH OF TIME, YOU’VE UNDOUBTEDLY TAKEN NOTE OF THE BEGGING BEAR. Or hugged it. Or

dressed it up. Or followed it on twitter (@beggingbear). Standing over seven feet tall and weighing 350 pounds, this bronze sculpture – by Carl Skelton – has stood with its left hand outstretched (‘an artistic metaphor for our native animals’ need for protection and our encroachment on the environment,’ notes former art director Judith Nasby) since 1999. Stoic. Immovable. Constant. And if you’ve encountered the bear, it’s almost certain you’ve also laid eyes on the historic red brick building just behind the iconic sculpture. Once the Macdonald Consolidated School and, in recent memory, the Macdonald Stewart Art Centre, this gorgeous 1904 structure has assumed a brand new (and new brand) identity: that of Art Gallery of Guelph. Replete with new whimsical logo (by tour de force designer Gareth Lind) to go with its new name, as well as a renovated façade, accessible front entrance and updated front lawn, the gallery is setting forth a fresh vision and new mission. That of innovation, collaboration and community-mindedness. As Acting Director Dawn Owen notes: ‘We want to be mentor and leader in the creative economy; to position Guelph’s leading artists on the national and international art scene; and to bring national and international art to Guelph.’ She continues: ‘Guelph may be small, but its residents are sophisticated.’ And, as such, they deserve an innovative creative space that serves as a hub for professional curation, exhibition, education and community. Indeed, Dawn emphasizes the need for the Art Gallery of Guelph to connect with the broader

Guelph Chamber, meanwhile, will be hosting

community at all levels. With this in mind, the gallery is working collaboratively with the Upper

its inaugural Time For Art auction – at which

Grand District School Board to implement programs for post-secondary students. One of these

attendees will bid on art pieces with volunteer

programs, for example, entitled ‘The Business of Art,’ is set to begin next September in two local high

hours – at the gallery this Spring.

schools as part of their International Baccalaureate (IB) programs. And then there’s the gallery’s phenomenal art As Dawn notes: ‘Programs like this align perfectly with the new gallery’s mandate to connect students

rental program (including rent-to-own options) –

to vast and varied opportunities. Indeed, it’s never too early [or too late] to connect folks with fine

perfect for local businesses looking to decorate

arts.’ Including high school students looking toward university and potentially realizing there’s much

the office.

to offer right here in Guelph. Adds Dawn: ‘If we can keep our creative brain trust in Guelph or closely connected to this region, we’ll grow a more livable city.’

It looks like the Begging Bear isn’t the only local institution with its arm outstretched to the

Dawn also hopes to ‘find synergies’ between Guelph’s business and arts communities. Perhaps the

community. Now it’s our turn to grab hold. <<

most obvious way is through unique event programming at the Art Gallery of Guelph – including conferences, lectures, art auctions, and even brand launches. SNAPd Guelph, for instance, launched its revised brand at the gallery – replete with multiple catering stations, a bar, and live music. The

>> 12

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

Art Gallery of Guelph Acting Director Dawn Owen has much to get excited about. photo by Vanessa Tignanelli

‘..the gallery is setting forth a fresh vision and new mission..’  artgalleryofguelph.ca  @AGGuelph #guelphbiz

Kathy Bardswick in her Guelph office

>> 13

FEATURE ARTICLE PASSION IN THE LIVABLE CITY

DEATH OF A SALESMAN:

HOW ALAN MASON & TRILLIUMWEST ARE REVOLUTIONIZING THE LOCAL REAL ESTATE LANDSCAPE

lan Mason remembers the very moment he was certain he’d succeed as a real estate broker.

‘It was the August long weekend,’ recalls the Broker of Record at TrilliumWest Real Estate Brokerage, ‘and it was brutally hot outside. And I was installing theatre-room insulation in the ceiling of what’s now our brokerage at Stone and Edinburgh. I’d been building the brokerage – literally building it piece by deliberately-chosen piece with my own hands – for months already. And I was so hot. And so exhausted. And I’d given all I had over the past months working nights– 10pm ‘til 4am sometimes – after full days as an agent. And I was spent.’ And that’s when it hit him.

>> 14

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

‘I realized,’ Alan notes, ‘that the reason our

the concept of co-operation and every day real

brokerage will succeed is because I was – and

estate professionals work with one another

continue to be – willing to work as hard as

representing buyers and sellers. It only makes

possible to get things done right. While most

sense if these professional dealings are grounded

folks in my industry were undoubtedly enjoying

in a sense of collaboration, community and the

their cottages that August long weekend, I was

betterment of everyone involved.’ He continues:

sweating all over theatre-room insulation. To

‘It’s how we’re doing things at TrilliumWest. And

make things right in an industry ripe for change.’

if what we’re doing inspires others to work in a

Indeed, there are a lot of things that Alan – a character so intensely-driven by a near-perfect balance of marketing, metrics and community that you can almost hear the gears turning in his head – wants to ‘make right’ with the local real estate landscape.

similar fashion, I’m all for it.’ The sense of collaboration and community that Alan’s trying to foster among his agents – which have grown to over forty since TrilliumWest opened not even a year and a half ago – is modelled by the brokerage’s deliberate focus

Beginning with the long-held perception both

on giving back to local non-profit organizations

within and without the real estate world that the

(TrilliumWest presented KidsAbility with a cheque

industry is at its foundation a cut-throat sales

for over $20,000 last year) and working with local

game where agents are pitted against agents

businesses as much as possible. Case in point: the

and brokerages against brokerages – all too often

creation of a series of short videos highlighting

at the expense of clients. As Alan notes: ‘The

Guelph’s diverse neighbourhoods by renowned

industry will succeed only if it puts collaboration

(and Academy Award-nominated)

over competition. We are an industry built on

Erin Faith Young, Erin’s husband Andy and local

producer

photographer Andrew Goodwin.

‘..The industry will succeed only if it puts collaboration over competition..’ #guelphbiz

>> 15

FEATURE ARTICLE PASSION IN THE LIVABLE CITY

Alan Mason at the soon-to-be-finished TWStore; in the brokerage

Simply put, the videos are jaw-droppingly

brand in the community, and lead by example.

‘Right

gorgeous

We like to think of ourselves as a marketing

homeowners want to find out all about new

company that sells real estate.”

communities being built locally, they’re forced

and

absolutely

emblematic

how TrilliumWest is raising the bar across the local real estate landscape. Take a look at trilliumwest.com. And while you’re there, revel in the professionalism, ease-of-use and clean design of the brokerage’s website. ‘Whatever it takes to make a potential client’s life easier to navigate local real estate listings and opportunities,’ notes Alan.

Not to say that TrilliumWest doesn’t have any office space at all. Indeed, the brokerage’s home at the corner of Edinburgh and Stone is beautifully-appointed with a relaxed, laid back vibe. It’s all a blur of open spaces, sliding glass doors, minimalist white leather furniture, local artwork and a small army of shiny silver Apple

Indeed, TrilliumWest’s web presence is what

computers. Like downtown Toronto in southtown

drives everything at the brokerage. Adds Alan:

Guelph.

‘While other brokerage’s rely heavily on sites

Manhattans Pizza Bistro Music Club who coined

like realtor.ca to promote their listings online,

the term ‘southtown’ – look out for an article about

TrilliumWest relies on realtor.ca for less than

Guelph’s ‘other downtown’ coming soon.)

2% of our online traffic. ‘In fact, we don’t rely on any external sources to do marketing for us. Our clients hire us to do the job right, so we like to handle it ourselves. We study the metrics and we put all of our marketing efforts behind the methods we know deliver the very best results for our home-owners. ‘

(A shout out to Thomas Aldridge of

And while TrilliumWest has no plans to slow down its sophisticated web and social platforms, Alan’s next big strategic move for the brokerage will be cemented in bricks and mortar – with an innovative (disruptive, even) twist. Specifically, TrilliumWest is in the midst of launching TWStore, a gorgeous street level presentation

The result? TrilliumWest isn’t based on the more

centre that’s to be located just beside the current

traditional brokerage model that charges its

brokerage (which will be transformed into the

agents rent for office space, paper – even coffee.

agents’ ‘clubhouse’ – replete with ping pong table)

‘I’m not a landlord,’ Alan states resolutely. ‘Instead,

that will allow potential home buyers to pick

my job as broker is to work for my agents by

up information and watch videos about all new

helping them do their job better. We love to help

housing communities being built in and around

promote them, their properties, strengthen our

Guelph – no matter the builder.

now’,

observes

Alan,

‘if

potential

to drive to each presentation centre to get the information they want. Theoretically, they could spend all day driving from site to site.’ Alan goes on: ‘It’s our plan that TWStore will provide the most up-to-date, pertinent information on all the new communities being built – as well as provide all the amenities (and more) of typical brokerages. Our mandate is to work with local builders to help promote their homes and ensure the very best buying process for everyone who stops in at TWStore. The coffee is always on and we will always be talking Guelph real estate at TWStore.’ Alan concludes: ‘I know we are on to something here. We are doing things our way – not the way things have always been done in an industry very slow to adopt change. We love promoting Guelph and sincerely hope we are helping to grow a more livable city. And we’re having a whole lotta fun doing it.’ <<  trilliumwest.com  @trilliumwest

>> 16

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

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>> 17

FEATURE ARTICLE SHARING IN THE LIVABLE CITY

5 QUESTIONS WITH… KRISTEL MANES A CONVERSATION BETWEEN KRISTEL & HEATHER WATTERWORTH Guelph’s

generation, business development and growth.

a forum for Guelph’s female business leaders,

business community and an advocate for

In the ‘new economy’, anyone can find their place

entrepreneurs and broader community to spend

entrepreneurship,

and lead because the system values assets we all

the day connecting allows for new ideas to spark

have.’

and new partnerships to form.’

role as Director, Innovation Guelph, and Project

What do women need to lead in the 21st century

Who should attend this conference?

Lead for The Rhyze Project, Manes is Chair of

economy?

‘A mix of new and established entrepreneurs,

the Partners for International Women’s Day, a

‘Women today are striving to find balance and

women in corporate leadership roles and women

collective of business and women’s organizations

juggle opportunities available to us. Yet we need

looking for their next step in life. It’s going to

based in Guelph and Wellington County.

resources, systems and solutions in place to help

be an incredible professional development

us achieve what we’re capable of. Economic

opportunity. And men are most definitely

We chatted with Kristel about just one of those

security, peer support and mentorship are

welcome to attend!’

big ideas – the upcoming Ignite. Empower.

essential for success. No one is an island… we all

Innovate. International Women’s Day Dinner

need help staying afloat!’

vibrant

contributor Kristel

Manes

always

dreaming up the next big idea. The big difference? She makes big ideas happen. In addition to her

What part of the event are you most excited about?

Event & Conference. How does this conference contribute to Guelph

‘All of our previous International Women’s

What is the ‘new economy’?

being a ‘liveable city’?

Day events have created a ripple effect in the

‘The new economy is one based on knowledge.

‘This conference is a reflection of the growth in

community – people come away inspired and

More and more, what you know, who you know

both the community’s awareness of women’s

motivated to contribute. I can’t wait to see what

and creativity are the critical factors for idea

economic and leadership potential and Guelph’s

happens in Guelph as a result of this conference.’

thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. Providing

March 8th • Doors open at 6pm, Dinner at 7pm AN EVENING WITH DR. GINGER GRANT NETWORKING + DINNER + KEYNOTE We’re celebrating International Women’s Day with a special evening event featuring networking, dinner and keynote speaker Dr. Ginger Grant. Ginger is a professor, author, speaker, and the founder and Chief Culture Oﬃcer of Creative Intelligence Lab. Her refreshing perspective on creativity in business will leave you feeling inspired!

WOMEN LEADING IN THE NEW ECONOMY A Women’s Leadership Conference Celebrating International Women’s Day

MARCH 8th & 9th

March 9th • 8:30am - 4pm WOMEN LEADING IN THE NEW ECONOMY WORKSHOPS + SPEAKERS + LUNCH + MARKETPLACE

THE DELTA GUELPH HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTRE

Learn, create and connect during this incredible full day event! Explore your creative side with hands-on Creativity Unleashed workshops. Learn about leadership from the experts with In The Know Sessions. Take time to Network and Reﬂect with end-of-day activities.

50 STONE ROAD W, GUELPH

FOR EVENT DETAILS AND TICKET INFORMATION PLEASE VISIT THE INNOVATION GUELPH WEBSITE:

innovationguelph.ca/ignite-empower-innovate-2016 OR CALL (519) 265-4495

PRESENTED BY

TICKETS DINNER EVENT (March 8th) $75 + HST FULL CONFERENCE (March 8th & 9th) $175 + HST

>> 18

An agency of the Government of Ontario Un organisme du gouvernement de Ontario

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

FEATUREINARTICLE CONSERVING THE LIVABLE CITY

TRADEFORCE TECH:

AN INTEGRATED ENERGY SOLUTIONS COMPANY BY CHRIS TIESSEN

ONATHAN KNOWLES IS A TOUR DE FORCE.

The type of person who inspires and

terrifies when you first meet him. The type whose business(es) will succeed not only due to sound planning and implementation but also because, for Jonathan, failure is simply not an option. The type who surrounds himself with inspired business partners and hires the most dependable team. The type who works to make money. And make his company money. And make his clients money. And save the world while he’s at it.

TradeForce Tech’s Jonathan Knowles wants to make you happy

double over the next 10 years, our team is serious

as sustainably as possible. Case in point:

about helping clients manage their energy

TradeForce Tech is a Regional Carbon Initiative

consumption with the same degree of diligence

Member of Sustainable Waterloo Region

as they do their core business. And so that’s what

(sustainablewaterlooregion.ca) and helps other

we do.’

businesses work toward Membership too.

How’s this? TradeForce Tech provides services

Jonathan emphasizes: ‘As an integrated energy

that focus on LED lighting solutions as well as

solutions provider who spends every day arguing

heating/cooling and refrigeration solutions

for the importance of energy efficiencies to

– with future plans of implementing Smart

clients and potential clients, it remains extremely

Energy Systems combining various renewable

important to me that our company not only talks

generation and conservation technologies.

the talk but walks the walk as ecological stewards.

‘Currently,’ notes

our

We care deeply about the conservation work

GHG emissions.

business is coming from LED lighting retrofits as

we’re doing – both for our clients and for our own

commercial clients continue to understand the

business.’

Pepsico Foods. Frito Lay Canada. Owens

phenomenal savings they’ll incur swapping out

Corning. Keybrand Foods. Skyline. University of

their conventional bulbs for LED.’

Oh – and the type who’s only just over thirty years old. Yep. Jonathan’s And

passion:

his

energy

business:

conservation.

TradeForce

Tech

(tradeforcetech.com) – an integrated energy solutions company he helped found with experienced business partner John Coghill that, in just over two years, has already accumulated a client list that reads like a veritable ‘who’s who’ of multinational corporations, innovation hubs and key local players who’ve counted on TradeForce Tech to save them energy, money, and reduce

Guelph. Communitech. Primaris REIT (ie Stone Road Mall). The list goes on. ‘Folks

every

industry

Jonathan, ‘most

Case in point: last year Jonathan project managed lighting surveys and designs for 10

are

As TradeForce Tech’s list of successful projects continues to accumulate, it’s going to get a lot more difficult for local players not to give Jonathan and his colleagues a call to start saving

increasingly

Pepsico Foods (Frito Lay Canada) locations

recognizing that there’s an urgent need to

from Alberta to Quebec that saw over 2,000 LED

transition to more sustainable economic and

fixtures of various types installed that will result

environmental models,’ notes Jonathan over

in hundreds of thousands of dollars of savings

pints and poutine at Baker Street Station. ‘With

over the next 10 years. Not to mention substantial

this in mind, John and I founded the business

energy savings as well.

the successful recipe for your unique integrated

And while the TradeForce Tech team relishes

diapers – or at least in his twenties! <<

to help these folks – our clients – identify opportunities for reducing energy consumption and implement the most effective solutions.’ He continues: ‘With energy rates projected to #guelphbiz

loads of energy and wads of cash. And to all those who do call: just remember that while Jonathan may still look wet behind the ears, he and his phenomenal team have been plotting energy solutions (seemingly) since he was still in

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about ensuring that their own business operates >> 19

FINDING COMMUNITY IN THE LIVABLE CITY

‘WE RUN FASTER WITH OTHERS’:

HOW GUELPH’S RUNNING COMMUNITY CHANGES LIVES

BY CHRIS TIESSEN

Professional photographer and amateur runner Dean Palmer in his living room someone near Exhibition Park

EAN PALMER IS ONE OF THE

(which got Dean into running in the first place

for a hike in the trails across from Starkey Hill

KINDEST PEOPLE YOU WILL EVER

when his sister presented him with a registration

and watch incredulously as Guelph’s runners

MEET. He’s also perhaps our area’s

card for his fortieth birthday) and a number of

(including Olympic long distance runners Reid

most skilled corporate photographers. And he

other marathons and races (Hamilton’s Boxing

Coolsaet and Eric Gillis) storm past at a blistering

runs.

Day 10-Miler remains a favourite annual run for

pace – oftentimes twenty or thirty kilometres into a

the lanky Morrissey-lookalike), Dean is quick to

‘training’ run! And the best part: they’re breathing

confirm the deep import of running in his life.

normally, chatting away, and are always good

In fact, like so many folks in Guelph, Dean runs a lot. And while it isn’t his full-time gig (he’s much too busy shooting for national running magazines,

As he states bluntly: ‘Running saved my life – it

or New Balance, or local universities, or large

helped me with depression and helped fix my

corporations, or non-profits), it still consumes him.

marriage. It’s an amazing thing, really.’

And he’s darned good at it too.

An amazing thing, indeed. And one that

A multi-time finisher of the Boston Marathon

Guelphites hardly take lightly. Travel along

(which he ran the year before and after the infamous

Watson, Victoria or Arkell Rds on any given

finish line bombing), the Houston Marathon

weekend morning – no matter how early and no matter the weather – and you’re bound to

for a wave and ‘hello’. So kind. So communityminded. Which brings me back to Dean, and the moment he discovered a Guelph truth: that our city is made stronger – more livable – by its running community. And that in Guelph, at least, running is community. I’ll let Dean explain.

see local runners tearing up the pavement. Go >> 20

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

‘..Running saved my life – it helped me with depression. It’s an amazing thing, really..’ ‘A few years back,’ he begins once we’ve settled in his living room with fresh-brewed Americanos, ‘I decided to pursue a new personal best time in the marathon. And so I began concentrating on getting faster over short distances which, theoretically, makes you faster over longer distances.’ Specifically, Dean wanted to achieve a sub-

ASK AN EXPERT The Guelph Chamber is about sharing knowledge. And with almost 900 Members representing 60,000+ local employees, it’s got a lot of knowledge to share. Here’s where we ask a Chamber Member to answer a question pertinent to her/his expertise.

nineteen minute 5k. (An impressive time, indeed, although, as Dean notes, Eric and Reid regularly run fifteen minute 5k times at the tail end

Expert: Marie Furfaro, Sr Small Business Advisor

of marathons!)

Organization: Meridian Credit Union

Dean continues: ‘I came close a few times, and even ran a 19:01

Chamber Member: Since 1981

– which, although I ended up winning the Masters class, was so utterly disappointing. And that’s when the Speed River New Balance Track & Field Club [Guelph’s elite running club coached by the wildly-eccentric, brillianty well-read and internationally-acclaimed Dave Scott-Thomas and featuring multiple world-class athletes]

Q Are you being Sold? Or Served? Does

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invited me to speak at their weekly lunch series themed around ‘Breakthroughs’.’ Specifically, the club wanted Dean to talk about his attempts at the nineteen minute 15k, and what it meant to Dean to fall so narrowly short. ‘And so I presented to this group of elite athletes – all world-class runners – and we laughed. And wept. And commiserated in our defeats and our successes.’ And then this group of world caliber runners – sponsored athletes; record holders; Olympians – did

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something that Dean (that any of us) would ever expect. They invited

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Dean to their next competitive meet, and featured him as the last

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race of the night, and paced him to a sub-nineteen minute time. As Dean notes: ‘It was as though I’d been called up from the minors to play the third period of an NHL game. I was absolutely floored.’

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personal best. Floored that Dave Scott-Thomas was there coaching

• Being part of your ‘circle of trust’

Floored that these elite athletes would care enough to help Dean

Dean the entire run. Floored that members of the Speed River New Balance team were strategically placed around the track yelling out Dean’s split times. Floored that Guelph’s running community had come together to hand Dean his dream. As he finishes his story, I ask him for a takeaway. His simple, resonant

• Working with you to understand the 5 C’s of credit and how they play a part in the credit approval process • Helping to promote you and your business to the community Contact marie.furfaro@meridiancu.ca today.

reply: ‘We run faster with others.’ << #guelphbiz

>> 21

RESILIENCY IN THE LIVABLE CITY

BUILDING MORE LIVABLE CITIES FROM THE COMMUNITY OUTWARDS BY KAREN FARBRIDGE

When I recently engaged a group of graduate

when we improve air quality and promote

When we improve the energy efficiency of our

students in a conversation about the benefits

more active lifestyles by providing better

homes, we create local jobs. (One only has to take

of community energy planning, what stood out

opportunities for walking and cycling. A more

note of local employers Canadian Solar, Wurth,

for them was the opportunity to enhance the

compact, connected and walkable community

EVOLVE Builders Group and Guelph Solar to

livability of urban life.

opens the door to more cultural and leisure

see what I mean.) We also improve our living

activities, enhancing our sense of belonging and

standards by lowering our energy bills. When we

connection to place. We grow confidence in our

harness local energy opportunities, we are safer

children when they can walk to school, while less

during ice storms. We also protect local jobs

time spent in traffic means more time with our

by offering more favourable energy options to

family.

industry in a highly-competitive global economy.

Ontario and putting a price on carbon in BC – are

Care for our urban forest and growing local

Guelph is recognized as a leader in embracing

important, but they won’t be enough. We need

food sequesters carbon out of the atmosphere.

the transition to a green energy future. Our

to turn to our communities for inspiration and

The same green infrastructure improves our

work continues to be referenced provincially

ingenuity.

mental health and the quality of urban life.

and nationally. If we want to realize the many

Guelph spends over half a billion dollars each

benefits of a more livable and climate-friendly

year on energy. Most of these energy dollars

city, we will need to take the same resolute action

leave our community. When we use energy more

as our national and provincial governments.

At our current rate, Canada is not going to meet its climate goals and these youth understand what that means to their future. To be sure, big moves by national and provincial governments – including the phase out of coal-fired power in

The wonderful and untapped opportunity for communities is that local action on climate change doesn’t just help the planet – it also boosts wellbeing by building more livable cities. To be sure, our physical wellbeing is enhanced

efficiently or generate energy locally, we keep more of these energy dollars at home building a

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NETFEATURE ZERO IN ARTICLE THE LIVABLEY CITY

ALWAYS LEED-ING. NEVER FOLLOWING: HOW REID’S HERITAGE HOMES CONTINUES TO PUSH THE ENVELOPE OF LIVABLE HOMES

BY LAUREN KHALIL AND CHRIS TIESSEN

HEN

NATURAL

CANADA

RESOURCES

(NRCANADA)

AND

OWENS CORNING TEAMED UP

TO FUND THE ECOENERGY INNOVATION INITIATIVE THAT WILL SEE TWENTY-FIVE NET ZERO ENERGY (NZE) HOMES – THAT IS, HOMES THAT CREATE AT LEAST AS MUCH ENERGY AS THEY CONSUME – BUILT, LAUDED CAMBRIDGE-BASED HOMEBUILDER REID’S HERITAGE

Details from the Reid’s Net Zero Energy Discovery Home in Westminster Woods

HOMES JUMPED AT THE OPPORTUNITY.

And why not? This local builder has always prided itself with its envelope-pushing sustainable builds – and has the recognition to prove it. Reid’s Heritage Homes’ accomplishments include building the first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED-HP) Platinum home in Canada (in Guelph, no less); maintaining status as an Energy Star Builder; being the first Canadian homebuilder to receive the Energy Star Participant of the Year award in 2012; partnering with the City to offer the Blue Built Home Program; participating in the Optimum Home Program offered by Union Gas; and building Ontario’s first Built Green home. For the ecoENERGY Innovation Initiative, Reid’s Heritage Homes has committed to building five of the twenty-five Net Zero Energy

pump water heater.

homes funded in the project which will see NZE

‘Working from a conservation-first standpoint,

homes built across Ontario, Nova Scotia, Alberta

reducing the loads was a key element to

and Quebec. These Reid’s Heritage Net Zero

increasing the efficiency and keeping costs

Energy homes are joining the Blue Built homes

in check. By starting with this method, the

in Guelph’s expansive Westminster Woods

overall system/home becomes that much more

neighbourhood in the city’s south end. With

affordable,’ notes Jennifer Weatherston, Director

the help of third-party consultants Building

of Innovation for Reid’s Heritage Homes.

Knowledge Canada and others, who helped Reid’s Heritage gain insight and direction for

And

while

these

phenomenal

efficiency

these NZE builds, the homes are well on their

upgrades may sound like costly additions, Reid’s

way to completion.

Heritage Homes’ goal is to build these houses of the future at price points that are within reach

The first of these energy-producing homes broke

of everyday consumers, and with as much ‘off

ground in September 2014 and was completed

the shelf’ technologies as possible. Moreover,

a year later in September 2015. The remaining

the homes’ efficiency upgrades will lead to

four homes are all scheduled to be completed by

substantial savings on the homeowners’ monthly

this spring 2016. The inaugural home – featured

utility bill. Not to mention benefits including

in a recent OHBA Housing Technology Tour and

healthier, cleaner spaces in which to live. Indeed,

multiple trades and homebuilder publications – is

Net Zero Energy homes actively contribute to a

currently being used as a Net Zero Discovery

more livable city.

Home, while the second NZE home features the popular Fairmeadow Craftsman floor plan with

By 2017, Reid’s Heritage Homes will be

three bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and 1,775 square

incorporating the benefits of net zero-ready

feet of living space.

homes in all of their new developments. A big promise, to be sure, but one that Reid’s Heritage

So what exactly separates a Net Zero Energy

Homes intends to keep as they continue to

home from any other build on your street?

innovate in the homebuilders’ space.

Besides a solar array on the roof, NZE homes are not noticeably different from the outside.

If you’re interested to learn more about Reid’s

The inside, however, is a different story. High-

Heritage Homes Net Zero Energy projects,

efficiency triple-pane windows. An air barrier

a great place to start is at LiveNetZero.com

system. Thicker walls with added insulation. The

aforementioned solar panels to generate electricity.

 reidsheritagehomes.com

A cold climate air source heat pump as a primary

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source of heating and cooling. And a hybrid heat #guelphbiz

Planet Bean coffee roaster Cole Burchell at the co-op’s Grange Street location

>> 25

FEATURE INDUSTRY INARTICLE THE LIVABLE CITY

LOCALLY MANUFACTURED. GLOBALLY DRIVEN: HOW DENSO IS CONTRIBUTING TO OUR LIVABLE CITY

by Lauren Khalil

BY CHRIS TIESSEN

The brightly-lit and impeccably clean DENSO plant in the city’s South End

O BE SURE, GUELPH’S ECONOMIC

within this sector. One of the world’s largest

DENSO will add another assembly line as it

PROSPERITY DOES NOT DEPEND

global automotive suppliers, DENSO employs

prepares for Honda CRV HVAC production.

about 146,000 people internationally and 650

ONE

INDUSTRY

ALONE.

Instead, it’s the diversity of our workforce that has propelled our community to the status of

locally.

To be sure, though, success doesn’t come without challenges. For while production

And while you may not have heard of DENSO,

continues to increase, DENSO is facing all too

chances are that you’re driving a vehicle installed

common skilled labour shortages locally. For

with its radiators, HVAC units and more. Which

instance, DENSO HR Manager Scott McKee notes

means that your car, truck or van – the vehicle you

an opening at DENSO for a Mould Engineer that

use every day to get to work, drive the kids to music

has remained unfilled for over two years now. He

lessons, and cruise wherever else life takes you –

notes: ‘In some cases we can’t fill a position due

has very real connections to our community.

to a real lack of skilled training. Other times, a

Indeed, Guelph’s manufacturing sector plays a

And it’s on the move, having just expanded local

position isn’t filled due to logistical constraints –

massive role when it comes to our community’s

production with the addition of new lines with

including a limited Guelph Transit bus schedule

present and future prosperity. And DENSO

contracts that continue into 2018 with Toyota,

that doesn’t serve our area during particular

Manufacturing Canada Inc. plays a huge role

Honda, and Ford. This Spring, for instance,

times of the day or night.’

‘Canada’s jobs powerhouse’ (as reported by The Globe & Mail in a recent editorial). And yet this doesn’t mean that Guelph doesn’t rely heavily on particular industries to remain internationally competitive

and

locally

prosperous.

manufacturing, for instance.

>> 26

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

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Despite these concerns, though, it’s business as usual at DENSO. Which, as evidenced by the huge trophy case in the main lobby at the Guelph factory, is good business. And Scott remains optimistic that with Guelph’s ever-expanding population, DENSO will be able to attract the employees it needs – ideally as graduates of either Conestoga College or the University of Guelph. (To note: DENSO actively recruits local post-secondary students for co-op placements.) A local workforce comprised of trained professionals and aspiring students from our community’s post-secondary institutions building leading edge auto parts that help us all get around this livable city and beyond – now I’d say that’s a local success story. <<

 globaldenso.com

#guelphbiz

>> 27

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11/19/2014 11:26:19 AM

FEATURE ARTICLE ENVISIONING THE LIVABLE CITY

GAME CHANGER:

HOW FUSION HOMES’ THE METALWORKS IS CHANNELING GUELPH’S PAST TO BUILD A MORE LIVABLE FUTURE. BY CHRIS TIESSEN

HEN FUSION HOMES’ LEE PICCOLI FIRST STEPPED FOOT ON THE EIGHT EMPTY ACRES AT 5 ARTHUR STREET SEVERAL YEARS BACK AND GAZED ACROSS THE DESOLATE LANDSCAPE THAT LAY SPRAWLED OUT BEFORE HIM, HIS FOCUS DIDN’T COME TO REST ON THE RUBBLE ALL AROUND HIM – EVIDENCE OF WHAT HAD ONCE BEEN A SPRAWLING FACTORY AND, BEFORE THAT, INDUSTRY THAT SPANNED BACK INTO HISTORY FOR ALMOST TWO CENTURIES. IT DIDN’T SETTLE ON THE TANGLES OF CEMENT AND REBAR STREWN ACROSS THE SITE. And it certainly did not fall on the grey mountains of drab concrete that stretched onward across the site.

>> 30

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

#guelphbiz

Fusion Homes’ CEO Lee Piccoli at The Metalworks site at 5 Arthur Street in ‘The Ward’ (rendering by CaiSepulis.com)

>> 31

Lee Piccoli at The Metalworks’ Presentation Centre at 5 Arthur Street

Instead, Lee’s focus locked firmly on something

Project of the Year in 2015, awarded by the

about the life moments and the milestones that

far less tangible yet altogether more inspired;

Ontario Home Builders’ Association. Or that

are going to be achieved on this site.’ Telling

namely, our community’s shared future - and its

Fusion Homes are recipients of a record six

remarks, indeed, as they point to a core value

storied past. A vision of an iconic community, n

coveted Tarion Awards of Excellence which

that’s rigorously instilled in all Fusion Homes

named The Metalworks, to be nestled between

recognize Ontario new home builders based

employees: that of a genuine care for the future

Guelph’s resurgent downtown and ‘The Ward’ – its

solely on customer satisfaction.

health and happiness of Fusion customers.

As Mayor Cam Guthrie noted of The Metalworks

As Lee notes: ‘We’re constantly reminding our

last September: ‘This development will make a

team that every decision we make will have a

‘When we began conceiving The Metalworks,’

huge positive contribution to the life of our city.’

direct impact on those individuals or families who

reminisces Lee, ‘we knew immediately that it had

Indeed, it will introduce hundreds more people

will call one of our cities home.’ He concludes: ‘As

to be special. There were so many things going

to downtown living – which will, in turn, further

long as we keep our customers’ wellbeing top of

for it: the site’s location in the heart of the city;

activate the downtown’s recent renaissance as

mind, and as long as we keep those cities in which

its incredible historical significance that dates

The Metalworks residents eat, shop and enjoy

we decide to build top of mind, I am certain we

back to our city’s first years – as mill, distillery,

themselves in the city’s core. It will also offer a

will continue to succeed as a homebuilder – and

foundry, machine shop, factory; its unique ability

fifty-foot-wide urban river walk along the Speed

as a community builder too.’ (Fusion Homes is

to profoundly change the personality not only of

River; 2.5 acres of open space; a heritage building

currently building six new communities in Guelph –

our city’s core but of the broader community. I

that’s to be restored to its original glory; and a

including Chillico Run on the West End, Natura on

think we’re getting it right.’

planned 30,000-square feet of restaurants and

the East, River’s Edge to the North and Solterra and

retail to be integrated into The Metalworks

Enclave at Pergola in the South.)

most fabled and mythologized neighbourhood. Built brick by very old brick.

And not by coincidence. Indeed, the Fusion team has dedicated so much time consulting and collaborating with city officials, local businesses and, perhaps most meaningfully,

community. (As a ‘Ward’ resident myself who lives just down the street from The Metalworks site, I can’t begin to describe my excitement for this

The site at 5 Arthur Street could have gone in any number of directions. I know that I, at least

community to be completed.)

– as well as many others who cherish this livable

design to accessibility to parking to community

‘When I think about what The Metalworks

Lee, his vision, and his steadfast focus on our

integration – all issues of ‘livability’ – has been

means for this city,’ states Lee, ‘I think about

community’s shared future. <<

dealt with appropriately. It’s no wonder that

more than just the people who are going to visit

The Metalworks received Ontario’s High-Rise

and interact with the finished product. I think

‘Ward’ residents to ensure that everything from

city we call home – owe a debt of gratitude to

 fusionhomes

>> 32

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

FEATURE ARTICLE TOURING IN THE LIVABLE CITY

LEGACIES & LIVABILITY:

DOORS OPEN GUELPH 2016 BY SUSAN RATCLIFFE, DOORS OPEN GUELPH 2016 CO-ORDINATOR Haven’t you ever wanted to peek behind a

landowners - Sheriff George John Grange, the

the beautifully-restored dental offices of Dr.

particular set of locked doors in town? To see the

first Sheriff of Wellington County. A massive

Reymarie Yabut and Dr. Andre Bisson and they’re

inner workings of a local business that’s usually

heritage home, it is now an environmental

worth a visit – without the freezing.

closed to the public? To hear fascinating stories

showpiece featuring an impressive Kachelöfen

of the people who once lived and worked in

built by potter Jessica Steinhauser. (You may

our city? It’s a city’s unique stories that create

recall a photospread of Jessica posing with this very

a distinct sense of place – that make it uniquely

Kachelöfen published in a previous issue of this very

livable.

magazine.) Behind the house is Julia’s studio – a

On Saturday April 23, Guelph is 189 years old. As a celebration of our city, between 10am and 4pm

modern architectural gem that visitors are also encouraged to tour.

Modern buildings tell their own stories and demonstrate different aspects of environmental sustainability and technical innovation. In our city’s south end are Guelph Hydro and Hammond Manufacturing. At Guelph Hydro, visitors will be toured through the building’s many energy-efficient and sustainable features

a number of local residences, businesses and

Across our city is another heritage home that

including

places of worship will open their doors to the

features another of Jessica’s beautiful Kachelöfen

geothermal heating and cooling system, high-

public for Doors Open Guelph 2016 – a popular

– the house known as Woodside at 40 Spring

efficiency plumbing and lighting, and drought-

annual event that’s been held since 2002.

Street. Owner Ian Findlay has renovated the

resistant

home using local materials found on site to

At Hammond, folks will be wowed by the

demonstrate that heritage can be an example

Hammond Radio Museum which contains a

of environmental sustainability. It’s sure to be a

collection of more that 2000 artifacts and radio-

fascinating stop on the tour.

related memorabilia. <<

Heritage homes can take on new lives with

 guelpharts.ca/doors-open-guelph

new uses, as evidenced by two of the John

 @guelpharts

Some highlights of this year’s tour: Near the top of the hill on Meadowview Avenue sits perched an impressive limestone house that’s now the home of Julia Grady and Beth Aspen Conlin. Its former owner was one of Guelph’s early settlers, entrepreneurs and large

rooftop

and

native

solar,

species

ground-source

landscaping.

Hall Houses on Woolwich Street. They’re now

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#guelphbiz

>> 33

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FEATURE ARTICLE LEARNING IN THE LIVABLE CITY

UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH CO-OP:

RECOGNIZING LOCAL EMPLOYERS AS CATALYSTS FOR GROWTH BY SINEAD ARTEM

O-OP

STUDENTS

THE

UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH ARE CONTRIBUTING

EVERY

DAY

IN OUR CITY WORKING IN A WIDE RANGE OF

BUSINESSES,

NOT-FOR-PROFIT,

AND

GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATIONS. Co-op students address manufacturing process challenges, test our soil, write proposals, develop new green energy products, support regulatory possesses, promote local business, advance educational and cultural programs, and much more. In the past year alone, university co-op students have completed 454 work terms right here in the Royal City. Local employers play a crucial role in the success

Guelph co-op students are placed at businesses across our city

of the university’s co-op program by creating opportunities for students to make real change in their communities, gain real world work experiences, and apply their knowledge outside of the classroom. To recognize this crucial role, six local organizations have been nominated by their co-op students for the prestigious University of Guelph Co-op Employer of the Year Award, which recognizes the exceptional experiential learning experience they provide. These include Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), Biodiversity

Institute

Ontario

(BIO),

Bioenterprise Corporation Canada, City of Guelph – Accessibility Services, Comtech Manufacturing (a division of Linamar) and Royal Canin Canada. The recipient of the 2015 Guelph Co-op Employer of the Year Award is Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada – a local organization that continues to go above and beyond their role as a supporter of co-op at the University of Guelph. With headquarters based in Guelph,

#guelphbiz

AAFC has been hiring University of Guelph co-

the option of employing a more experienced

op students for over fifteen years. The company

student, Dan ‘wanted to provide a young student

has continued to show dedication in supporting

with a great opportunity for professional and

the university as well as the local community,

intellectual development. This is exactly what

and provides students with exceptional learning

he achieved.’ Over the past 4 years alone, AAFC

experiences. As student nominator Jordan

has posted 28 different co-op positions, and

Winberg notes: ‘Working as a co-op student

hired students from a wide range of programs

for Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in the

including Science, Commerce, Engineering,

Guelph Food Research Centre provided me

Environmental Sciences, and Applied Science.

with a unique experiential learning opportunity. I had the chance to meet and collaborate with other student research assistants as well as fulltime professional researchers. The workplace environment of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada encourages integration of students from day one, giving us a sense of belonging and that

Co-op award nominees and award winners will be recognized at the annual Co-op Awards reception at Cutten Fields on March 10th. For more information on how your organization can hire a University of Guelph co-op student, visit recruitguelph.ca or call 519-824-4120 x52323.

our contributions are meaningful.’

Winberg credits AAFC and especially his

 recruitguelph.ca

supervisor, Dr. Dan Ramdath, for choosing a junior

 @UofGuelphCECS

student like him. He adds that despite having

>> 35

COLLABORATING FOR A LIVABLE CITY

GROW GUELPH: THE WORK CONTINUES

BY SUE BENNETT, UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH

The City’s Barb Maly, Manager of Economic Development, with the University’s Sue Bennett, Director of University and Community Relations, at City Hall

URING THE WINTER OF 2014,

areas for improvement in the areas of service and

group. Survey results yielded several actionable

LOCAL

communications. Moreover, respondents cited

learnings – including local businesses’ desire for

CLEAN

a continued trade/skills mismatch in advanced

better access to government financial assistance

TECHNOLOGY, ADVANCED MANUFACTURING

manufacturing,

additional

programs to support business and/or market

AND

support to attract employees and assist with

development; focused business networking

relocation. Survey participants also identified

opportunities; and assistance with workforce

as a key priority support for local companies to

issues.

BUSINESS

attend trade shows, as well as access to export

DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATIONS IN GUELPH-

support programs and networking events to

WELLINGTON – THAT SERVED AS A MEANS OF

foster B2B discussions.

COMPANIES

PARTICIPATED DEVELOPED PARTNERSHIP

THAN

FIFTY IN

AGRI-FOOD/AG-INNOVATION IN BY OF

BUSINESS

GROW

SURVEY

GUELPH

THIRTEEN

–

INVESTIGATING THE ISSUES AND CONCERNS

and

requested

As it turned out, many concerns cited in survey results are already being dealt with or remain ‘in the works’. Businesses simply didn’t know

The City approval process also remains a top

about the work being done to tackle key issues

concern for business owners, as does the

and priorites. As such, open, clear and concise

perceived need for a comparative analysis of the

communications remains a key issue for all

Overall, survey results painted an positive

costs of doing business locally. And of course

players.

picture of local business. More than 60% of the

access to transportation remains a key priority for

businesses interviewed across all sectors, for

local business as well. Respondents in Advanced

instance, planned to expand within the next 18

Manufacturing

months. And of those businesses planning to

raised concerns surrounding innovation –

expand, 97% of those interviewed indicated that

particularly

they would need to increase their workforce –

cost recovery and the desire to build stronger

totaling more than 335 additional employees and

research-industry collaborations in our major

Download your copy of the 2014 Grow Guelph

more than 200,000 additional square feet of floor

industry sectors.

business survey results at guelph.ca/business/

OF, AS WELL AS THE OPPORTUNITIES FOR, LOCAL BUSINESS.

space locally.

and

Agri-food/Ag-Innovation

productivity

improvement,

In the fall of 2014, respondents were invited to

There were, of course, recorded concerns as

attend a session to review survey findings and

well. Specifically, interviewees cited a number of

plan go-forward activities of the Grow Guelph

Throughout 2015, Grow Guelph responded to the many requests by individual businesses, and also created a newsletter and fact sheet (inserted in this magazine) to clarify priorities and outline the work being done.

economic-development-office/grow-guelph/ and look out for more important work by this group of key business support partners in the coming months. <<  growguelph.ca

>> 36

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

On the road again The Grow Guelph BR+E Task Force is back on the road and will be contacting Guelph businesses to participate in the 2016 Business Visitation and Survey Program.

www.growguelph.ca

Participating organizations: • • • • • • • • • • • •

Career Education Council Guelph Wellington Dufferin City of Guelph Conestoga College Guelph Chamber of Commerce Guelph-Wellington Business Enterprise Centre Guelph-Wellington Local Immigration Partnership Innovation Guelph Ontario Centres of Excellence Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs Ontario Ministry of Economic Development, Employment and Infrastructure University of Guelph Workforce Planning Board of Waterloo Wellington Dufferin

#guelphbiz

For more infomration or to schedule a survey: Laurie Iversen Project Coordinator City of Guelph 519-822-1260 x 2394 grow@guelph.ca

>> 37

BRANDING IN THE LIVABLE CITY

mapping Guelph: part two

CAI SEPULIS BY CHRIS TIESSEN

>> 38

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

UELPH. IT’S A SPECIAL PLACE, WE ALL KNOW. Guelph. It’s different from other cities, right? ‘Only in Guelph,’ as my former boss and great friend MP Lloyd Longfield would – and still does – say. ‘That’s so Guelph’, others chime in, as though the name of our city itself has become a common descriptor of anything that seemingly shares the same vibe – or brand – as our tightknit community.

#guelphbiz

Cai at home in Exhibition>> Park39

OTTAWA

VANCOUVER

caption caption

But what is this brand? Over the past three years,

illustrated Guelph streetscape that runs along the

Ottawa – but, as we all know, are in fact an homage

at least, community and business leaders have

header of the back page of every SNAPD Guelph

to Guelph. As artwork for Toronto’s HotDocs film

met with this singular goal in mind – to distill

publication since I was Publisher that have been

festival and Word on the Street literary festival

the Guelph brand. To reduce it to a tagline –

re-purposed onto everything from pint glasses

that brilliantly animate the energy and vibe of

a sort of descriptor to describe our descriptor.

to pottery; from postcards to large scale posters

the big city – while undeniably injecting a dose

Essential work for countless reasons, to be sure.

(affixed to office walls at the University and

of Guelph into the mix. As marketing for Second

For tourism. Economic development. Employer

Chamber, and in living rooms across the city).

Cup, Brickworks Cider, the Polaris Music

attraction, retention and expansion. Community

The Mijiida brand. The Ox brand before that.

Awards that are so splendidly Cai – and, as such,

identity. Self identity. A starting point.

That awesome sticker sheet of Guelph ‘logos’

so unmistakably Guelph.

But what if Guelph’s brand isn’t a tagline? What if it’s an illustration? Or a series of illustrations? (‘Only in Guelph,’ after all.) Of community landmarks. And local neighbourhoods. And popular activities. All in a discernable style

Cai sold at last year’s Art On The Street (one of which adorns the Mayor’s leather phone case.) Ouderkirk & Taylor. Green Table Foods. Among the best Hillside posters. Select Welly One-Off beer labels and coasters.

that’s a seamless mixture of playfulness and

Cai’s work is Guelph distilled it’s an illustration?

professionalism. Of corporate and community. Of

And Guelph is Cai’s creative genius torn from the

small town familiarity and big city braggadocio.

illustrated page.

For me, at least, and countless others, the

And the best part? Through her marvelously

playful illustrations and other creative output

distinctive creative work, Cai has successfully –

of local artist, designer, art director and brand

subversively, even – managed to transplant bits

creator Cai Sepulis are Guelph’s brand. Period.

of Guelph across Canada. As Nordstrom’s gift

Royal City Brewing Co. beer labels. Downtown

cards for their new Canadian stores that depict

Guelph Business Association event posters. The

the skylines of Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and

Few folks have the creative skills to successfully brand something – as the committees working diligently on Guelph’s tagline can attest. Fewer folks successfully make a living at it. And then there’s Cai Sepulis – a local artist whose body of creative work has not only (unwittingly) helped define Guelph for Guelphites, but has also begun to supplant bits of Guelph across Canada. Only in Guelph, indeed. <<

 caisepulis.com  @caisepulis  @caisepulis

>> 40

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

Be the company of choice. On Purpose!

OpenEd AT THE UNIVERSITY BY MICHELLE FACH, Director of OpenEd

Guelph boasts great culture, a strong sense of community

Executive Coaching

and a university recognized annually as one of Canada’s top

Discovery Process

comprehensive schools. Our city’s urban environment is balanced

Customized Solutions

by the active role taken by the entire community to create healthy

Sylvia Plester-Silk • 519.822.3776 sylvia@onpurposeconsulting.ca • onpurposeconsulting.ca

Guelph plays a large role within the community through research

ecosystems and a sustainable food environment. The University of and studies in ecosystem management and food sustainability. Open Learning and Educational Support at the University offers two programs that will be of particular interest as the city expands and grows: the Sustainable Urban Agriculture Certificate program and the Sustainable Urban Horticulture Certificate program.

These programs are designed for urban/residential

gardeners, landscape designers, builders, municipal planners, conservationists, environmental advocates and more. Both programs focus on various aspects of the environment – including urban production of food, natural biodiversity, land management, water resource management, social and economic implications of food, and landscape design trends. The idea is to protect the community’s land and water resources and be socially responsible while demonstrating effective citizenship to improve the life and health of the community – our livable city.

Irene Szabo

Proud to be part of “The Liveable City.” Royal Lepage Royal City Realty | 848 Gordon Street Guelph, ON N1G 1Y7 | 519 824 9050 | rightrealtors.ca

For

information

these

programs,

visit

OpenEd.uoguelph.ca/sustainability

Open Learning and Educational Support University of Guelph Johnston Hall, Room 160 Guelph, ON N1G 2W1 519-767-5000 info@opened.uoguelph.ca opened.uoguelph.ca

#guelphbiz

>> 41

>> 42

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

FEATURE ARTICLE HELPING IN THE LIVABLE CITY

LEADING BY EXAMPLE: THE CHAMBER’S CORPORATE CHALLENGE SUPPORTING SYRIAN REFUGEES BY KITHIO MWANZIA, PRESIDENT & CEO GUELPH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE With the recent activities and mobilization efforts now in full-swing to support the 76 Syrian refugee families that will be coming to Guelph and area, there is a natural opportunity for local businesses to contribute to and support the refugee settlement in our community. As an organization, the Guelph Chamber of Commerce is here to foster community prosperity, which is why we have launched a Corporate Challenge to connect businesses to the joint Syrian refugee campaign efforts. As part of the initiative, the Chamber will lead the outreach and coordination of corporate donations and connect individuals and businesses that are interested in making donations. We have had many conversations with business leaders on the opportunities for collaboration and there remains a readiness and willingness from people to assist in all aspects of the

settlement support activities, which is a true testament to how welcoming our community really is. Our intention is to trigger a wave of solidarity from businesses to join in the effort. Joint discussions are also in the initial stages around skills-based training and employment opportunities to ensure the families can integrate into the economy, and I will be asking our member businesses to think about hiring refugees into their workforce. The Chamber is currently outreaching to businesses to meet immediate donation requirements. Additionally, we are encouraging businesses to mobilize donations around items such as gift certificates with a suggested value of $50 for grocery stores, restaurants, and retail outlets. For more information on the Chamber’s Corporate Challenge and to request donation information, please contact Adam Stewart,

Guelph Refugee Forum Corporate Challenge Coordinator, at adam@guelphchamber.com For information on how to make a cash donation, please contact the Muslim Society of Guelph by email at info@msofg.org ABOUT THE SYRIAN REFUGEE CRISIS AND RESPONSE Guelph and area is anticipated to welcome 76 Syrian families (between 350-400 people) through a mix of private sponsorship and blended government sponsorship. 50 families have been sponsored under Jim Estill’s initiative and 26 families through other private sponsorship groups based in Guelph and area. Families began arriving in Guelph from Syria in December and will continue into the Spring. Nearly 600 volunteers have registered to support the families and sponsorship groups. <<  guelphchamber.com  @guelphchamber

A trusted name for over 145 years in insurance. Personal and Business Insurance for Every Need

www.sutherlandinsurance.com

240 Victoria Road North, Guelph, Ontario Tel: (519) 822-0160 1-800-263-1032 #guelphbiz

>> 43

TEACHING IN THE LIVABLE CITY

‘..this type of industry exposure is what engages students in sustainable real estate..’ The University’s Avis Devine at MacDonald Institute on campus

>> 44

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

HELPING GROW GREENER COMMUNITIES:

SUSTAINABLE REAL ESTATE AT THE UNIVERSITY

BY SCOTT CARTER

‘

REEN’ BUSINESS IS ALIVE AT THE

DEVELOPING BUSINESS LEADERS – WITH A

UNIVERSITY

CONSCIENCE

GUELPH’S

COLLEGE OF BUSINESS AND

ECONOMICS. The college’s mission - to develop

and be ‘leaders for a sustainable world’ – runs through its students, researchers and alumni. In 1993, the College introduced a unique undergraduate program focusing on the real estate and housing market. Currently one of only a few programs of its kind in Canada, the College has focused its research and curriculum to explore the growing trend of ‘green’ or sustainable housing. This isn’t just lip service either. Guelph’s business school is focused on making communities more livable.

on sustainable real estate is generating quite the buzz. In the past year, she has conducted research analyzing the economic viability of sustainable real estate both for commercial and residential properties. One report concluded that environmentally-friendly office buildings have higher rents, occupancy rates, and more satisfied tenants. Bottom line: ‘green’ buildings bring in more ‘green’ for landlords. One report concluded that environmentally-friendly office buildings enjoy an average of 3.7% higher rents; 18.7% higher occupancy rates; and 7% higher tenant satisfaction scores. Devine’s

research

has

real estate program, has taken his class project

course which explores how topics in sustainability

to the next level. Along with his brother Kyle,

and climate change affect real estate and urban

Foch has started Cargotech. Their business

economics. The Sustainable Real Estate course,

plan is simple - to create sustainable, affordable

developed by Devine, sees business students visit

and well-built housing solutions using recycled

real estate developments in Toronto and Guelph

shipping containers. By using these containers,

– including the groundbreaking ceremony for

Cargotech is able to quickly and efficiently build

the Reid’s Heritage Homes Net Zero Energy

affordable housing in markets that desperately

model home.

need it.

‘This type of industry exposure is what engages

‘We’ve identified a way to simultaneously

the students in sustainable real estate,’ remarks

implement

Devine. ‘We are graduating students with a keen

increasing the construction cost,’ notes Foch.

regularly interact with business leaders and study

Specifically, Professor Avis Devine’s research

afforded

her

the

opportunity to sit on the Canadian Home Builder’s Association (CHBA) Net Zero Council – an association committed to building homes that produce as much energy as they consume. Along with fellow faculty member Lianne Foti, Devine is currently researching the role of real

Daniel Foch, a recent graduate of the College’s

The College has created a new undergraduate

interest in corporate social responsibility, who

RESEARCH WITH IMPACT

ENTREPRENEURIAL ALUMNI

compelling and relevant industry challenges.’

sustainable

practices

without

The company’s key demographics consist of firsttime homebuyers and empty nesters, all of whom seek affordable housing without sacrificing

This fourth-year course has now become a

quality of life. Cargotech is currently part of the

requirement for all students enrolled in the Real

Hub Incubator Program with the University’s

Estate and Housing major. ‘The key behind

Centre for Business and Student Enterprise

sustainability is that it is a contemporary issue,’

(CBaSE). Foch says CBaSE has helped Cargotech

adds Devine. ‘I take the responsibility of keeping

develop their business plan and to ‘discover

it topical and up to date very seriously.’

exactly what our target market is looking for in a

Guelph alumni are also noticing the positive trend of sustainable real estate. Guelph property developers Skyline REIT, co-founded by Guelph Commerce graduate Martin Castellan, has created a scholarship for students enrolled in the

home.’ Professor Devine’s focus on sustainability has not been lost on this entrepreneur either. Indeed, Foch served as a research assistant for Devine, and helped her develop the Sustainable Real Estate course.

Sustainable Real Estate course. The scholarship

‘There are real, tangible benefits to be realized

of $1,500 supports students who achieved high

from sustainable real estate,’ says Foch. ‘Quicker

marks in the course and demonstrate leadership

returns on investments, fast construction and

in extracurricular activities related to real estate

better quality of life for the end-user and the

and housing. Skyline also supports Guelph real

greater community.’ <<

estate students by bringing them on tours of their commercial developments.

 uoguelph.ca/business  @UoG_Business

estate agents in the adoption of green homes.

#guelphbiz

>> 45

BUILDING IN THE LIVABLE CITY

Mike Watt and Mike Taylor outside Granite Homes’ brilliant Arkell Lofts – which lie just next to the future site of Granite’s Gallery Towns

‘What Granite’s doing with its Arkell projects is innovative and courageous. Granite is pushing the envelope of design and function with these incredible new communities.’ >> 46

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

WEST COAST-INSPIRED SOUTHEND LIVING: GRANITE HOMES’ ARKELL LOFTS & GALLERY TOWNS ARE SEXY. PERIOD. BY LAUREN KHALIL WITH CHRIS TIESSEN

MONTHS,

west coast influences such as stucco and Maibec

Guelph is a rapidly growing city, with projections

ALMOST EVERY SATURDAY AND

horizontal wood siding – a style that’s popular in

of 50,000+ new residents moving into our

SUNDAY

THE

PAST

FEW

I’VE

larger cities but has not yet been seen in Guelph

most serene metropolis by 2030. A barrage of

HIKED AT STARKEY HILL WITH MY TWO- AND

where two-storey pitched roof homes still

homebuilders are staking claim to the little land

FIVE-YEAR-OLDS AND OUR NINE-YEAR-OLD

dominate the landscape.’

that remains undeveloped to meet the needs

MORNING

AFTER

LABRADOR LUCY, I’VE ENDED UP TAKING A DETOUR HOME SO THAT I CAN CATCH AN UMPTEENTH GLIMPSE AT GRANITE HOMES’ GORGEOUS AWARD-WINNING ARKELL LOFTS NEAR THE CORNER OF ARKELL AND GORDON IN THE CITY’S SOUTH END.

And while townhomes are usually reserved for folks saving up for something bigger, at 2,100plus square feet of living space Granite’s Gallery Towns promise to be destination homes – ‘forever homes.’ Combine this with nine-foot ceilings, ground floor yard space, two parking spaces

of these future (and current) residents. As such, it’s imperative that new build communities are innovative, sustainable and livable. Granite’s Arkell Lofts and Gallery Towns are not only spacious enough to accommodate the largest families, but also built up – as opposed to out – as an effective solution to urban sprawl.

The minimalist design. The organic-looking

per unit, massive decks and private balconies,

materials. The clean lines and horizontal accents

optional elevators, custom cabinetry, granite,

Guelph is home to a number of phenomenally

– each element complements the next for an

spa-inspired ensuites with walk-in showers and

innovative,

overall build that would seemingly look as

frameless glass doors, and prices from the mid-

Granite’s new West Coast-inspired South End

at home as a chalet at the bottom of a West

400s, and you’re sure to stay put for years.

communities are effectively giving Guelph

Coast ski slope as it does in the Royal City. As local broker Alan Mason notes: ‘What Granite’s doing with its Arkell projects is innovative and courageous. Granite is pushing the envelope of design and function with these incredible new communities.’

Situated on the edge of a fantastic hiking trail system and close to all of Guelph’s most

award-winning

homebuilders.

residents a fantastic option for home ownership that will delight for years to come.

cherished amenities – including a locally-sourced

As Granite’s Mike Taylor concludes: ‘Our aim has

butcher; co-op run organic coffee shop; grocers;

always been to make sure that those folks who

‘100 mile’ restaurants; an impressive array of bike

choose Granite are left dazzled with their new

lanes; an LCBO, beer store & brewery; and even

homes. I’m so excited to meet those folks who

Communities that are only just beginning to take

a B-Corp-certified cupcakery – there’s very little

will be calling our new Granite communities

shape. Indeed, just east of Arkell Lofts lies the

reason to ever want to move from Granite’s

home.

future site of Granite’s Gallery Towns – what’s

newest communities. Indeed, these future towns

to be a collection of 93 three-storey townhomes

even have me – the most stalwart downtowner

that will be easily as striking as the Lofts. As

whose own children are named after streets in The

Granite Homes’ Mike Taylor suggests: ‘Gallery

Ward – thinking of moving southward.

Towns will mix contemporary architecture with

#guelphbiz

They’re

certainly

for

treat!’

 granitehomes.ca

>> 47

WHO WE ARE

+ RESEARCH & EVALUATION

SOCIAL CHANGE

How do we know we are making a difference?

How do we build stronger, more effective systems?

INSIGHT

STRATEGY

EXPERTISE IN ACTION

O’HG SOLUTIONS

The O’Halloran Group is guided by a deep commitment to promoting greater well-being, dignity and inclusion for all

KNOWLEDGE PRODUCTION

Generate meaningful and actionable applied research and evaluation

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Facilitate collaborative processes to elevate collective thinking and action

KNOWLEDGE TRANSLATION

Support the communication and sharing of needs, practices and impact

DECISION MAKING

Aid strategic decision-making in a world of complexity and change

SOCIAL SECTOR CAPACITY

Build the capacity of the social sector to better meet the needs of the community

COMMON CHALLENGES Unguided Decision Making

Limited Stakeholder Engagement Unmet Community Needs

Disconnected Partners Undirected Development

theohallorangroup.ca

Resistance To Change

Unmeasured Impact

FEATURE ARTICLE MEASURING THE LIVABLE CITY

BUILDING A LIVABLE CITY:

IMPACT INVESTING, SHARED VALUE & SOCIAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP BY TANYA DARISI, FOUNDER & DIRECTOR OF THE O’HALLORAN GROUP

STARTED OFF MY CAREER MANAGING RISK AND COMMUNITY RELATIONSHIPS FOR INDUSTRY AND THE CORPORATE SECTOR.

Later, I made the move to the social and health sectors, working with service providers and funders alike to design strategy and amplify impact. I have felt the pain, passion and triumph of every leader I have had the privilege to know as they worked towards gain and growth. Now I find myself in 2016 wondering how to do more to move the needle. Despite all we know and all we have tried, unstable economies and financial crises still abound – communities still

Tanya Darisi is all about measuring data – from her head to her heels

struggle, social disparity and environmental degradation remain persistent. We have parsed

benefit if we at all value long-term success and

of community bonds, green techies, social

up and delegated too much, perpetuating a false

resilience. Five years later, that conversation is

innovators and every business that sources

dichotomy between what we think builds strong

taking hold around the world.

locally or invests in fair-trade and shared value

economic conditions and what creates social and The tide of impact investing, shared value and

environmental well-being.

social entrepreneurship is rising.

Looking forward, I am finding myself joining

According to a Harvard Business Review article by Porter and Kramer (2011), the kind of thinking

Impact investing is an approach to making

that perpetuates this dichotomy is under siege.

investments that create positive impact for the

Porter and Kramer argued we have to bring

communities and provide a financial return.

together economic, social and environmental

Impact

investing

includes

strategies

community bonds and microfinance. Shared value is an approach to activating business policies that generate economic value while producing value for society. It promotes business practices that benefit local communities. Social entrepreneurs build businesses around solving social problems.

social and environmental success. At some point along the way, they ask ‘How do we know that we are really making a difference?’ This is where I come in. We talk about how to be accountable and authentic. We talk about how to discover what their contribution is and can be. And then we measure, track, count, and assess. Data – big and small – becomes our source for learning, decision-making and strategy. After all, it is one thing to make claims about doing social good; one thing to hold onto a promise, vision or set of principles. It’s quite another to demonstrate it.

‘sustainable’ are as common as outdoor ice rinks

the triple bottom line. To all our B-Corporations,

#guelphbiz

forces with those seeking to connect economic,

Here in Guelph - where words like ‘local’ and – we can be proud of our leadership in getting to Tanya Darisi

supply chains: It is worth it.

impact investors, microfinancers, purchasers



theohallorangroup.ca

 @TDarisiOHC

>> 49

BENSOL BRIEFING

WHAT’S THE REAL ROI ON YOUR GROUP RSP? BY JACKIE OOMS, BENSOL CONSULTING

EMPLOYER

OFFERING

GROUP BENEFITS, YOU’VE SEEN HOW

HEALTH

AND

DENTAL

BENEFITS HELP YOU RECRUIT TALENTED STAFF.

While the power of your group retirement savings plan is not as apparent as a recruitment tool, it may have an even greater impact on your company’s bottom line. Financially-unprepared

employees are going to affect your company’s

financial plan and start saving for tomorrow.

bottom line.

They’ll come to work healthier and ready to do

In a recent survey of workplace health and wealth trends, Manulife / Ipsos-Reid uncovered

So what’s the real return on your group RSP

a positive link between the financial wellbeing

investment? Healthy, engaged employees and an

of employees and their productivity at work.

improved bottom line for your business.

Compared to financially-unprepared employees, financially-prepared employees claim to be up to

employees

worry

22% more engaged in their workplace, 16% more

every day about finances, bills and debts, and

likely to say they are productive in the workplace,

retirement. Over time, those worries create

and 25% more likely to identify themselves as

stress and erode health. In extreme situations,

being very healthy.

financially-strapped employees may even avoid needed dental work, eye care, and physiotherapy.

their best.

While financial wellness is a complex and personal issue, a group retirement savings plan

Ultimately, the financial, emotional, and physical

can help by encouraging employees to make a

challengesMACT_Ad_MH1_7.5x4.75_SB_HR_Feb0916.pdf that plague financially-unprepared

2016-02-09

Learn more about the Manulife / Ipsos-Reid Health and Wealth Wellness Study 2014 or find out how you can foster better employee engagement by visiting bensol.ca, or by emailing me at jackie@bensol.ca

<< 

bensol.ca

 @BensolBenefits

10:58 AM

“I ENJOY THE RELATIONSHIPS AND OPPORTUNITY TO GENUINELY CONNECT WITH PEOPLE.” To me, this business is about getting to know people and earning their trust. It’s rewarding for me to establish strong connections as I help people build an investment strategy.

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>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

FEATURE PLAY IN THEARTICLE LIVABLE CITY

ATHLETICS AT THE UNIVERSITY: GROWING A HAPPIER, HEALTHIER, MORE LIVABLE CITY BY ELIZABETH THOMSON

T’S HARD TO THINK ABOUT OUR LOCAL

1,055 intramural teams, and 650 varsity athletes

Guelph youth. This is a result of the University

COMMUNITY WITHOUT ITS UNIVERSITY

train, meet and compete on campus. Impressive

sponsoring 50 junior hockey teams and 5 junior

– AN INSTITUTION THAT ATTRACTS OVER

numbers, no doubt.

football teams. Girls and boys in every school vie

23,000 STUDENTS TO OUR CITY EACH YEAR. Many of us locals are in fact graduates who decided to never leave this amazing place – including me.

Now consider this: over 16,000 hours per year of University athletic facilities are rented by the community – including 5200 hours rented and used at the Gryphons Hockey arena (a

for the next Gryphon hat or this year’s hottest new item – the mitts. Varsity athletes are also a common sighting in local schools – inspiring youth as ambassadors and speakers, volunteering to run practices, coaching local teams and running

Most of us recognize the University of Guelph

place where I’ve spent more than a few early

for its research, teaching, economic impact and

mornings) and almost 65% of the total rentals of

cultural contributions – but do we see how it

the Gryphon Soccer complex. Not to mention

So many young local athletes of all ages and

makes us a healthier, more livable community?

the hours spent playing at the University by

skill levels spend time playing on campus. The

the 4,000 kids who attend the award-winning

University hosts high school league games and

Gryphon Activity summer camps or the

championships; City track and field competitions

1000+ kids participating in Gryphon Athletics

and swimming programs for elementary kids;

programs.

and OUA and CIS championships. It provides

The campus athletic facilities are some of the only places in town open 16 hours a day, 363 days a year. Built in 1957 for a student population under 5,000, today the W.F. Mitchell Centre sees 53,000 access card swipes a month. Over 15,000

You might have noticed in the past couple of

students and community members play on

years the growing presence of Gryphon swag on

clinics across the greater Guelph area.

elite training facilities for provincial and national sports teams as well as regional competitions, league play and tournaments. In recent years,

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>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

Karley Salsbury, Student Leader in Athletics & Recreation; Quincy Sickles-Jarvis, Women’s Varsity Basketball; Elizabeth Thomson, University Alumni Association VP External and Manager of Proposal Development in Alumni Affairs & Development; Dr. James Stevens, Lifelong Member of Athletics (since 1958); Kyle Richards, Men’s Varsity Volleyball; Cindy Kettle, Fitness Program user; Sarah Mau, Assistant Director of Athletics

campus athletic facilities have been home to

something for everyone here. And yet I feel as

summer camp offerings, facility rental space

both the Hamilton Tiger Cats and the Toronto

though we need more new space to continue

and fitness memberships. It will create a larger

Argonauts for competition and training.

supporting our growing community-wide fitness

venue to host world class competitions, and

and athletics programs.’

add to the University’s capacity for conferences,

Add in the ‘fan’ factor and you have a whole new

convocation and so much more.

way the University engages our community.

To this end, after 58 years of excellent service the

Over 50 sporting events happen annually with

W.F. Mitchell Centre is getting an overhaul and

As Sarah Mau, Assistant Athletics Director

spectator visits tallying in the tens of thousands.

a massive expansion. In 2009 students voted in

at the University, confidently notes: ‘The new

In 2016, events like the Special Olympics,

a referendum to commit $40 million dollars to

facilities are going to give us the chance to open

Canada Cup of Wrestling and CIS Men’s Soccer

help kick start the project and now the Building

our doors wider and touch many more people

Championships will draw many people from the

Potential campaign is looking for support from

with all the activities we will be able to offer.’

city and beyond.

donors, businesses and citizens to help raise the

Trish Stevenson – a local resident and mother

additional $20 million needed to complete it.

(and TV personality) – shares: ‘My kids have grown

The revitalized W.F. Mitchell Centre will have

up here in Guelph. They have been using the

170,000 more square feet, a 2,200-seat event

facilities since they were tiny. They come to the

centre and a state of the art 25,000-square-

camps. I run on the track. We go to the events

foot fitness centre. It will enable expanded

and support amazing athletes. There really is

#guelphbiz

Which will, in turn, help grow a happier, healthier, more livable city. Learn how you can help at buildingpotential.ca << 

gryphons.ca

 @Guelph_Gryphons >> 53

ARTISTS IN THE LIVABLE CITY

mapping Guelph: part three

KIAM BY CHRIS TIESSEN

>> 54

The Petrie (2015), Mixed Media, 48”x72” >> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

Kiel and Amanda in the loft of their studio nestled in the heart of ‘The Ward’

F YOU’VE EVER MOVED FROM YOUR HOMETOWN ONLY TO RETURN A FEW YEARS LATER TO AN ALTERED, ALMOST-UNRECOGNIZABLE LANDSCAPE – CULTURALLY, POLITICALLY, SPATIALLY, ARCHITECTURALLY – YOU’LL UNDERSTAND HOW LOCAL ARTISTS KIEL AND AMANDA WILSON CIOCCI (KNOWN COLLECTIVELY AS KIAM) FELT WHEN THEY RETURNED TO GUELPH AFTER A TWOYEAR HIATUS.

#guelphbiz

And you’ll appreciate their need to process their

‘Over the past several years especially,’ notes

sense of disconnectedness to the city of their

Amanda, ‘Guelph’s downtown core has been –

youth; to reconcile the seeming contradictions

and continues to be – transformed by massive

between a remembered past and vastly different

development projects. From the monumental

experienced presence; and to document the

Tricar towers that seemed to shoot up so quickly

stages of transition – demolition; excavation;

and now dominate our downtown landscape

reconstitution; restoration – taking place all

to Fusion’s The Metalworks community to the

around them.

restoration of the Petrie Building on Wyndham

>> 55

‘..we felt compelled to document these processes from old to new as a means of recording that time and space..’ 43°, -80° (2014), Mixed Media, 48”x72”

Street, the process of transition is all around us.

paints, gel and gloss mediums, plaster, ink, and

And gorgeous. Last month while attending a

As artists, we felt compelled to document these

ink transferred photographic elements on birch –

meeting at the Fusion Homes offices, I was

processes of transition from old to new as a

what’s similarly marvelous is getting to witness

floored by one of KIAM’s larger works, featuring

means of recording that time and space. .’

the collaborative process in action (as I was lucky

the future site of The Metalworks, hanging in

enough to do while interviewing and shooting for

the hallway. Other KIAM works are on display

this article).

in local businesses, private residences (including

The result? Over the past four years collaborating together, KIAM has created over one hundred

apartments in the Tricar building – a subject

mixed media pieces together – the vast majority

Building up. Scraping away. Peeling back. Digging

of which document transformations in the urban

down. Smearing around. Excavating. Layering.

environment and, as Amanda and Kiel have

Indeed, KIAM’s creative process is in effect an

stated, ‘ask the viewer to consider their place

act of transition itself. One in which neither

within it.’ (A recent show by KIAM at Capacity 3

artist – both graduates of the University’s

Gallery, entitled 43°,-80°, literally placed viewers

renowned BFA program – plays second fiddle to

The works of Kiel and Amanda – KIAM – will

within the artists’ created space by presenting

the other. ‘Our works are, in theory, the result of

remain important documents of Guelph’s ever-

works in a 360° viewing experience of Guelph’s

a democratic process,’ suggests Kiel to almost-

transitioning landscape for decades to come.

‘Ground Zero’ where John Galt is believed to have

immediate stifled laughter from Amanda. ‘In

And like the urban developments they depict,

founded the city – and where The Metalworks is

theory,’ stresses Amanda. ‘In reality, we butt

they’re undoubtedly a great investment today.

going up now.)

heads from time to time and we’ve each single-

While each completed work is a marvel to behold – a complex mix of acrylic paints and washes, spray

handedly ruined at least one piece.’ She adds: ‘At

matter of several of their works), in the arsenal of interior decorators and in gallery shows including the recent RED show at Renann Isaacs Contemporary Art.

least they’re almost always fixable.’

 kiamstudio.com >> 56

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

ARTICLE OPENFEATURE IN THE LIVABLE CITY

EASY ACCESS TO THE SERVICES THAT MATTER TO YOUR LIFE? THAT’S A LIVABLE CITY. BY ANDY BEST, OPEN GOVERNMENT MANAGER CITY OF GUELPH Local government in Ontario is deeply infused

services to give citizens a great experience when

for various programs? We hope to have all these

into the daily lives of its citizens.

they interact with us, be it to find information,

and much more as part of one simple myGuelph

access services or opportunities to participate.

experience.  The point is not to force people to

Sewers, sidewalks, streetlights, and swimming. Parks, parking, waste and water. Police and

One part of this plan is to build a one-stop digital

plows. Planning and engineering work for new

shop for citizens and businesses to get what they

developments. And, believe it or not, much

need from the City.

more. The City of Guelph provides a remarkably diverse range of services to its residents, all of which are essential in a livable city.  So it’s very important that when citizens need or want to connect with the City on any of these important issues, it goes smoothly. Easy access to the services that matter to your life? That’s a liveable city.   This is why the City’s Open Guelph initiative is focused on modernizing our

It will be called myGuelph and will include a variety of new and existing digital services. The full suite will be ready in early 2018. In 2016, we’ll build up to two new digital services, with more to follow in 2017, all of which will be rolled into the full platform the following year.

use technology. It’s to give them the choice to do so if that’s what they want.  So help the City of Guelph improve the experience it provides its residents. Go to open.guelph.ca and tell us what digital services would make your life easier or business better. When it comes to how City services impact your life, you’re the expert. Do please share your thoughts with us about how new digital services can build a more livable city. <<

Report issues via mobile phone? Stay up on

 open.guelph.ca

what’s happening at council? Register your kids

 @OpenGuelph

More than just the airport.

519-824-9344 redcarservice.com #guelphbiz

>> 57

WRAP UP UP THE WRAP

COMMUNITY COLLABORATOR. COMMUNITY BUILDER:

HOW OUR UNIVERSITY STRENGTHENS OUR LIVABLE CITY

BY SUE BENNETT, UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH

N FALL 2014, THE GUELPH CHAMBER’S

The results of this study will be used to inform the

COL.LAB.O.RATE

(THE

university’s continuous improvement efforts and

MAGAZINE

PREDECESSOR OF THE PUBLICATION YOU’RE

also to market its value to a range of stakeholders

HOLDING IN YOUR HANDS) PUBLISHED A ‘TOWN

– including prospective students, industry partners,

& GOWN’ SPECIAL ISSUE THAT CELEBRATED

donors and funders. Study results will also provide

FIFTY YEARS OF OUR LOCAL UNIVERSITY AND

benchmark data that can be compared to a

(Visit

sampling of similar-sized Canadian universities,

guelphchamber.com to view a .pdf file of this

and identify unique contributions that the

publication.)

University of Guelph makes to Guelph and

COMMUNITY

GROWING

TOGETHER.

The issue featured over twenty stories solicited

society in general.

from university faculty, staff and students about

The university has positioned itself as a centre

the special relationships the University of

for entrepreneurship and innovation. As such, of

Guelph continues to grow, nurture and sustain

special interest will be study findings that focus on

with the broader community. From College

the economic and social impacts of the university’s

Royal to ‘Project Serve Day’; from the OVC to

intellectual capital, commercialization activity,

CBaSE; from the U’s annual Writers Workshop

and company creation (and spinoffs). These all

to its ‘Leave for Change’ program – the ‘Town &

contribute to a more ‘livable city’, no doubt, as do

col.lab.o.rate ‘Town & Gown’ Issue, Fall 2014

Gown’ issue had much to say.

robust civic engagement in the community and

stemming from reductions in crime, welfare, and

beyond of university students, faculty and staff.

health care support. And a series of 10 illustrative

Moreover, the University of Guelph’s influence

case studies that will focus on the impact of the

on city service provision; its role in investment

work undergone by university interdisciplinary

attraction and business retention and expansion;

research teams, by knowledge transfer and by

and its cooperative education programs and

other seminally-important university work will

community

consortium

round out what’s sure to be a fantastic piece of

building all contribute to a more desirable city in

research whose results will inform the continued

which to live, work and play.

growth and prosperity of this ‘livable city’. Be sure

And yet there’s so much more to tell. Which is why the University of Guelph is currently conducting a much more thorough study on the economic and social impacts the university has on our community, the surrounding region, and internationally. Specifically, this study will pinpoint the direct economic impact of the university on our community and beyond, as

collaboration

and

well take a deep dive into the crucial roles the

Study results will also test to what extent the

university plays in innovation, business creation

university’s recognized role as talent magnet

and development, cultural diversity, the agri-

(for students, faculty and staff ) contributes

food sector, community engagement, and more.

to such benefits for taxpayers as increased government revenues and key social savings

to look out for study results this Spring. <<

 uoguelph.ca  @UofG_Community

>> 58

>> M ARCH/APRIL 2016

#guelphbiz

>> 59

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