May, 2015 by Elgin This Month

Your Business. Your Community.

Volume 5, No. 9, May 2015

Inside:

• Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce Pages 18 and 19

H. B. Broer After 25 years, just getting started

Pages 20 and 21

Cover story: Page 3

• Golf In Elgin County • Garden & Backyard Inspirations Pages 22 to 27

May, 2015

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 2

HBI – riding the rails to success for 25 years by Terry Carroll

In addition to its core rail business, HBI has and Marcel who studied sales looking after “the Imagine someone writing a plan for a successful added a range of complementary industrial proddownstairs.” business in an industry that many people view as Both Marcel and Heidi have been working with ucts and services, with an offshoot into agriculdying, based in a town that no longer has a physiHBI most of their lives. Heidi laughs as she recalls ture and a connection with local farmers. The full cal link to that industry. Impossible! becoming “the Saturday morning clean-up crew” range includes Cummins-Onan RV generators The industry is rail, the town is Aylmer, and this when she was 13 years old. Having the children and diesel engines, Subaru industrial engines, May, H. Broer Equipment Sales & Service Inc. work in the business has long been part of the Yanmar compact utility tractors, Hydrema on and (HBI) is celebrating a quarter century of off rail equipment and much more, with doing the impossible. top notch licensed heavy duty mechanics Co-owner Harry Broer chuckles when and class 'A' technicians to install, rebuild he says, “We’re known across the counand service all lines. The local agricultural try, but very few in the Aylmer area know connection comes in the parts area with what we do.” Unlikely as it seems in a HBI supplying belts and hoses for farmcommunity without rail access, HBI is a ers. leading name in rail car movers. Under For most of its history, HBI leased the the Rail King banner, HBI offers new and property at the west end of Aylmer, but used mobile rail car movers and repair last year, purchased the four-acre site with 24/7 service. It’s been the core busiand buildings. That move allowed a maness for HBI since inception. And even jor addition to the building, alleviating though feeder rail lines have been ripped warehouse crowding. And HBI now has up as the industry has consolidated, the a dock on site for loading and unloading. rail freight business is growing. Trucks No more going to a neighbouring farm now handle all the smaller items and rail for that. With four acres of land, there’s the big stuff. As Harry points out, “One plenty of room for the growth. “You can’t rail car is three truckloads.” get smaller. You just can’t,” Harry says. While founders Harry and Hilda Broer “You have to always look at expanding.” remain active in H. Broer Equipment Although HBI has a national presence, Sales & Service Inc., after twenty five this family business has never forgotten years, they are on track to transfer the the local community. Whether it’s orgabusiness to the next generation. Ownernizations like United Way, the Aylmer & ship currently remains with the parents Area Chamber of Commerce or Youth – Hilda as President and Harry as ViceFor Christ, HBI has been consistently President and Trainer – but day-tosupportive of organizations in Aylmer The Broer family: Heidi Weninger (left), Harry, Hilda and Marcel Broer. day operations are increasingly the and area, often quietly supporting responsibility of their daughter and causes, particularly in the area of son. Heidi Weninger, 40, manages the adminisHBI plan. “Harry and I are in the background youth. HBI was a charter member of the Chamtrative side and Marcel, 37, is in charge of sales now,” Hilda says, and Harry adds, “I strongly be- ber of Commerce, with Hilda serving on the exand marketing. An orderly transition in ownerlieve that it’s very important for family members ecutive for a number of years as vice-president, ship is the next logical step. going into the business to be involved in the oper- president and past president. It’s become a family Hilda and Harry have been conscious for years tradition. Heidi is currently vice-president of the ating part of the business.” of the importance of a good division of responWith his sales and marketing hat on, Marcel Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce and will sibilities to a success of a family-owned business. spends a lot of time in airplanes. HBI also has a likely be elected president later this year. Well before Heidi and Marcel worked full-time For local people who are still not quite sure western Canada sales presence and an Edmonton with HBI, President Hilda Broer was responsible depot for the rail mover business. The company what they do at HBI, there’s an opportunity to for what they call “the upstairs” in the building at flies out technicians on an as-needed basis, part of find out. As a celebration of its quarter century 730 Talbot St. West, Aylmer, and Vice-President its 24/7 service promise. The Broer family empha- in business, HBI is hosting an open house May Harry was managing “the downstairs.” Finance sizes the importance of these technicians – and all 27, culminating in a Business After 5 for Aylmer and administration are handled upstairs, and of their nine employees, in addition to the fam- Chamber members that evening. sales, marketing, parts and service downstairs. ily – to the growth and success of HBI. Another The tradition continues with Heidi, a graduate in daughter, Laura, works in London and “helps business administration in charge of “the upstairs” Front cover photo by Mark Girdauskas, whenever we need her,” Hilda says. Photos by MG. Elgin This Month Manager Linda Axelson Section Editor Business Beat – Bob Hammersley Freelance Editor Terry Carroll

Regional Sales Manager Nelson Parreira Graphic Design / Production Metroland Media Group Sales Representative Greg Minnema

Elgin This Month is a monthly magazine focusing on business and lifestyle issues and includes Business Beat, the St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce newsletter. The publication is available for pickup at no charge at news stands and other locations around Elgin County, as well as distribution to businesses and selected households.

Published monthly by Metroland Media Group Ltd., 15 St. Catharine Street, St. Thomas, ON N5P 2V7 519-633-1640 www.theweeklynews.ca/etm May, 2015

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INNES AS I SEE IT

Lust for certainty may not lead to safety by Jim Innes We are limited in how much we’re able to con- dren, she increasingly felt depleted, lost and trol the circumstance of our lives. We can con- frustrated. She painfully came to realize that struct reasonably safe containers but are awfully what was once a safe and sensible way of life vulnerable to outside circumstance. Where do we was becoming undeniably insensitive and opgo? pressive. But by that time she was entangled Relying on our own strength has its limitations. in circumstance and programmed by punitive We want so much to be strong and create a safe theology, as for example, if she strayed from space for those we care about. But we just can’t, the “righteous path” she risked being sent to not all the time. Hell when she died. To assist us, we rely on family, communities and The search for certainties and the choices we institutions to give some comforting direction and make (if we choose to choose) shape our dereliable boundaries. However, this reliance has its pendencies and chart the course of our lives. limitations too. And it is disappointing (and often Problems occur when we are unable to see frustrating) because we want to feel protected. We others or ourselves as a work in progress, and want so much to find a dependable (and hope- we hold too stubbornly or far too passively to fully infallible) source of emotional and spiritual what we hope is the answer. support. But we just can’t, not all the time. Communities or institutions that promise No matter how hard we try, we cannot create an certainty, and impose such constructs, often entirely safe and controllable space for ourselves, fail to make room for change and progressive or those we love or are called to care for. thought. They breed a “lust for certainty” (ofI will always remember the parishioner who ten accompanied by a black and white politic) shared her story of being atthat can hinder a healthy tracted to (and later married sense of self. And, in this way, ...bottom line to) a very assured and devout as for the parishioner men… safe certainty tioned above, ripen to rotten, man of principle. She saddled up to his sincere devotion and the peace of mind they prois elusive... gladly accepted his church’s posed to cultivate. literal convictions about God. Bottom line … safe certainty Over time, and after a few chilis elusive. Our vulnerabilities are boundless and, as I see it, safety can only be found in what we make of this fact. A wizened crop farmer once said to me (durJune 1st to June 6th ing an exceptionally wet spring), “I’m not Drop off your old tires 50 Years going to fret that now. of Service! for free and make a child's I’ll take it one day at a Thank you for dream come true. Money time. It always seems to all your support! out in the end … collected will be donated work somehow.” And, as matto the SUNSHINE ter of interest, it did. That particular growing FOUNDATION, season was extended by through McGregor an unusually long and

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sunny fall. Safe certainty (or certain safety) is nothing more (or less) then a state of mind that has accounted for the many tumultuous and unpredictable possibilities orbiting our personal and familial worlds. It is my personal bias that vital to any sense of safe certainty is a spirituality that affirms one as an expression of the greater whole. Albert Shweitzer said, “I am life that wills to live in the midst of life that wills to live.” We are not separate from one another or the world that we share. As we deepen in our appreciation of this, we naturally adopt a compassionate lifestyle that, as one postmodern thinker stated, “surrenders to what is, lets go of what was, and has faith in what will be.”

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Jim Innes is a clinically trained therapist and a priest at St. Johns’ Anglican Church in St. Thomas. Learn more at jiminnes.ca.

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BUSINESS & COMMUNITY OUR COMMUNITY

Strong community within large municipality? Maybe lation of some 104,000. For administrative and oping a strong network of neighbourhoods as a electoral purposes, the municipality is divided means of pursuing community development. Old South, Old East Village and the nascent SoHo In this column I’m looking at all aspects of what into six wards. By comparison, the entire population of Elgin, (south of Horton) are the best know examples. it means to be a community and how communicounting St. Thomas, is just over 87,000. Includ- From my experience, residents in those neighties serve the needs of those who live in them. The question in this column is: Can you call ing the county level, we have nine councils with a bourhoods identify strongly with their ‘communiyourself a community without having an incor- total of 49 elected officials. Add to that the nine ties within a community’ and are driving growth porated municipal government, elected officials, separate administrators, municipal staff, build- and development in very positive ways. The purpose of this column is not to question professional staff and all the other trappings that ings, etc. People can rightly ask: Is there a lesser sense of the value of the important work being done by come with formal organizations? The flip side of that question is: Can you create a real sense of community because Chatham-Kent has only one current municipal councils and officials. What community simply by drawing borders around mayor, one council and one administrator? Do we I question is the value of a municipal structure a chunk of geography and imposing a corporate still measure the value of our community by hav- rooted in a previous century. It’s quite likely that, ing our own incorporated government and our even with the amalgamations of the late 1990s, structure on it? we still have too much local government. The more I consider these questions, or discuss own administrators? True that municipal governments get to set Evidence shows that strongly identified comthem with friends, the more I realize that the notion of community is complex, more social than tax rates and determine budgets (except for the munities can effectively exist within much larger legal, and more art than science. We need munici- county level and the school board). But with an incorporated municipalities. With some new thinking we can support the palities to deliver services and to ensure account- increasing level of externally mandated responability. We need communities to give us a sense sibilities for policing, ambulance, road mainte- communities closest to us in our hearts while nance, accessibility, housing, etc. how much lo- striving for the efficiencies of larger, better ratioof belonging. It is almost 20 years since the Ontario govern- cal autonomy do we really have over the top line nalized, better serviced municipal governments. ment passed the Savings and Restructuring Act financial issues? Is Port Stanley less of a community because it’s of 1996. By 1998, municipalities inside Elgin part of a municipality that includes County had been amalgam...we have nine Belmont and Lynhurst? Judging by ated to the eight we have today Serge Lavoie has a 35-year career growth and development there, it councils with a (including St. Thomas, not managing associations, most part of the county). The 1998 total of 49 elected seems to have a strong sense of its recently the Southwest Economic present and future identity, no doubt restructuring removed municiofficials... Alliance. He lives in St. Thomas. spurred on by a vocal and effective lopal status from a number of cal ratepayers’ group. smaller communities such as When I lived in ToPort Stanley, Belmont, Yarmouth Township, West ronto, my home was Lorne, Port Burwell and Vienna, among others. Next door in Chatham-Kent, amalgamation in one of 140 officially went even further. In all, 22 municipalities were recognized neighbourmerged into a single municipal government. In- hoods in that city. There cluding the county level of government, Cha- are 100 more that are tham-Kent went from 23 separate governments unofficial. Most of them have community organiinto one; from 117 elected officials to 18. It’s worth noting that in the same year the pro- zations and many have vincial government moved to reduce the number BIAs to support busiof municipalities it also passed the Few Politicians ness districts. My wife Act, which cut the number of MPPs from 130 and I identified strongly THE A/C SYSTEM down to 103. The government of the day was with our neighbourhood (known as Leslieville) striving for efficiencies and lower costs. SERVICE SPECIAL INCLUDES: So, how did all of that amalgamation affect even though our em• Evacuate and recharge A/C System communities? In Chatham-Kent, the municipal ployment was elsewhere. • Includes Freon top up to 1/2 lb Closer to home, Lonweb site identifies seven ‘population centres’ and • Check high and low side pressures a total of 93 named communities, all for a popu- don is actively devel• Clean debris from condenser • Function test hvac system Reg. $79.99 • Written estimate for repairs, if required After-Tax Financial Planning by Serge Lavoie

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AGRICULTURE ON THE FARM

Farm moms rule … and enforce moms’ rules by Janine Lunn

Sharing life on the farm with kids is, at best, a recipe for a magical childhood, and, at worst, a messy, noisy, often dangerous feat of wit and strength. As is the case with most things, the best way to survive is a little bit of patience, a lot of moderation, and a few handy ‘mom rules’ to keep things running smoothly. As a nod to Mother’s Day I started with my own list and did some crowd-sourcing using my farm-mom friends and present to you: Moms’ rules. Some moms are the ‘safety first’ type. With so many types of equipment and potential situations a little person could get into, it’s a big category! • Tractors squish children! Stand way back when they’re driving past, and be sure the driver waves you over before you move closer to ask for a ride • Just because there are keys in the ignition doesn't mean you can turn it on • Don't stand behind equipment. Get down off that gravity box! Stay away from that auger! Don’t jump off the top of that ladder! • Don’t go anywhere alone, and don’t return to the house without telling someone first! Animals present so many exciting lessons, and as long as there are animals around, there will be rules about them. • Don't crawl under or lie with the livestock • Don’t stand behind the cow that coughs or you’ll get a messy surprise!

• Close the gate. Close the gate. Close the gate. When you’ve retrieved the animal that escaped from the mysteriously opened gate, lock the gate. • Don’t run (or bike) around the animals • Don’t pet the bull • Don’t let the goat in the house With all this space, we can’t just have livestock, there must be a few animals for protection and extra companionship. So again, more rules. • Don't ride the dog • Don't play "stack the chicks" • If you catch that cat you're chasing, it will scratch you • Get the cat oﬀ the roof • If it's dead leave it in the shed! It’s going to be messy out here; we get it. But please, a few basic guidelines! • Stop making sandcastles out of manure • Keep your mouth oﬀ the poopy gates when looking through at the cows

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• Muddy boots stay outside. No, you cannot wear your barn boots to school! • Sometimes you have to wash oﬀ outside before I will let you inside • And a throw-back rule from my mom: If you’re going to play in the straw, you must get undressed in the garage before you can come in A lot of parenting relates to what can go into, and come out of our children’s mouths… • Calf starter is not a snack! And milk replacer isn’t for people • Don't eat food from the floor of the tractor or the barn • Just because you’ve heard those words on the farm, doesn’t mean you can use them in the house! • We can drink from the garden hose, not the barn hose • Don’t share all your knowledge about animal breeding at school Some mom-invented rules are more generic. Here I offer some practical considerations. • Put it back where you found it • We don’t put straw in our noses • If it’s wrapped in a net, don’t tear it. If it’s wrapped in plastic don’t poke a hole in it • Peeing outside is for the farm; not for the school yard! • Don't leave your toys where they will get run over with the tractor • Don’t carry eggs in your pocket. As bizarre as some of these rules sound, I assure you that we can’t make this stuff up! All the maternal minders aside, let’s hope these children remember the most important rule: family first, farm second. And on the topic of rules, how about a proposal that we move Mother’s Day to March when farm life isn’t quite so busy? With thanks to my partners in grime: CV, AV, AM, AH, BKB, KG, CM, TB, CF, EK, SN, AB and our own moms – BF & DL Janine Lunn lives on the family farm near Belmont, Ontario.

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BUSINESS & COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP

Developing Self-leadership: Choose by Cheryl Lester

Who of us hasn’t had at least one crisis in our be a life-long learner. To be someone who seeks life, work, or relationships? deeper truths and wisdom. Someone who welI remember a particular point in time, when I comes and appreciates opportunities to improve made a decision that was definitely not popular my own capacity to become a more effective leadwith someone in my circle of life. It was a dif- er of both Self and others. ficult decision to make. Their feelings of disapNot long after that crisis, I was being interviewed pointment, fear, and devastation were real and by a business owner for a possible position in his palpable. I didn’t have all the company. At some point duranswers about the short and ing the interview, I seized an long term consequences of my opportunity to share my wisdecision. I just knew that I dom about how to handle the “it inspired and had made a decision. Despite tougher things in life—thinkchallenged me to be a their emotional distress—and ing that this would impress life-long learner” my own—I knew I’d made the my ‘future’ employer. My right decision. prospective boss nodded in As subsequent discussions agreement, then proceeded to took place, I was sensitive to but undeterred by tell me that although he liked my attitude, he felt their despair. In an attempt to shore up my own that I had missed an important option. resolve, and offer what was intended as an inspirMy immediate (and hopefully hidden) reaction ing challenge, I boldly declared that, “I’m sorry, was an arrogant ‘hummphff’. “How dare he chaland yes, this is very tough. But, as I see it, you lenge my well-developed (all-be-it simple) philoshave options. One, you can let this destroy you, ophy!” But as he offered his version of the missing or two, you can learn from it and ‘motor on’. As option, I had to admit that, in fact, the third opfor me, I’m going to try to learn from my mistakes tion presents a possibility that many (arguably too and ‘motor on.” many) people adopt. I’m not sure whether or not my simple philosSo what did he add? In harmony with my lingo ophy about how to handle tough situations in- he simply stated, “You can motor on and miss the spired or frustrated this person. What I do know whole point!” though, is that it inspired and challenged me to Yes, he did have a point. A good point. And

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from that day forward, my ‘when bad things happen to you’ philosophy has always included his third option. It is an important point that I often include in conversations with leaders when we’re talking about how to develop (or not develop) their Self and other leadership skills and increase their Difference Making Quotient™ (DMQ™). So, whenever you are facing a painful, frightening, challenging, monumental, or devastating ‘it’ in your life, work, or relationships—remember you are always ‘in choice’ and can decide to: 1. ‘Motor on’ and miss the whole point. 2. Learn from ‘it’ and ‘motor on’. 3. Let ‘it’ destroy you. Choose number 2. Cheryl Lester, Eagle Tree Leadership, is an international leadership coach known for her ability to help people improve their performance and effectiveness. Reach her at clester@eagletree.ca.

Healthy Living EVERYDAY HEALTH

Vitamins and minerals for better health

help to protect the brain cells from damage as well as protecting cholesterol in our bloodstream from the free radical damage that leads to artery There is now very convincing evidence that disease contributing to heart attacks and stroke. supplementing your diet with specific levels of Antioxidant supplementation has also been vitamins and minerals can slow the biological shown to boost immune system function and processes of aging, decrease the risk of developing may help to reduce the risk of developing catamany degenerative conditions, increase immune racts. system function and preserve brain function as we Essential fatty acids age. Although a healthy diet may guard against There are two families of essential fatty acids vitamin and mineral deficiency problems, we are also referred to as the omega (ω) fatty acids. Linbeginning to realize that to truly optimize health oleic acid also known as ω-6 -6 and Alpha linoand to protect against certain forms of cancer and lenic also known as ω-3 -3 fatty acids. The degenerative diseases, supplementation with spe- importance of the essential fatty acids cific amounts of vitamins and minerals appears to is in their relationship to the formabe necessary. In this month’s article we will discuss tion of certain tissue hormones called the broad categories of supplementation includ- prostaglandins (PG). The function ing antioxidant supplementation, B-vitamins, of prostaglandins is virtually endless Calcium and joint support supplementation. and includes control of local tissue Antioxidant supplementation effects such as inflammation, platelet Antioxidant vitamins like vitamin C, Vitamin aggregation, response to other hormones, E, Vitamin A and other antioxidants such as tumor growth, neurotransmitbeta-carotene, selenium, lyter response and in general the copene, lutein and bioflavahomeostatic response to various noids are important agents stimuli and stressors which the to help protect our genetic “most adults fail to tissues encounter. Basically supmaterial from cancerous get sufficient levels of plementing with a good source mutations that are created of essential fatty acids such as calcium” by free radical damage. fish oil and flaxseed oil helps to By neutralizing free radicontrol inflammation, improve cals, these antioxidants also circulation and is essential in brain cell development and function. Essential fatty acids may also have a role to play in protecting against certain cancers. B-vitamins Supplementing with • Footwear a full complement of • Clothing B-vitamins can boost • Personal Protective energy production and combat the effects of Equipment stress. Recent studies also indicate that B-vitamin supplementation • Tools the risk of heart We Repair Hydraulic Hoses Too! reduces disease. Increased B-vi1155 Talbot St., Bld #4, St. Thomas, ON R-SAFETY tamin status is also asso(519) 633-5884 Apparel, PPE & ciated with better brain by Dr. Greg Johnston B.H.K., B.Ed., D.C.

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function as they are important co-factors in the synthesis of brain chemicals required for memory, concentration and general cognitive function. B-vitamins also help suppress the inflammatory process and have been shown to be helpful in the treatment of arthritis and other conditions where inflammation plays a key role. Calcium Most adults fail to get the sufficient levels of calcium in their diet necessary to maximize bone mineral density to help reduce the risk of osteoporosis later in life. Calcium also plays a key role in helping to maintain normal blood pressure. Calcium also may play a role in protecting against colon cancer. Glucosamine sulfate Glucosamine sulfate is a supplement that is now widely accepted to have a significant positive effect on osteoarthritis. Several studies have shown that supplementation with Glucosamine sulfate helps to reduce pain and increase function in individuals with osteoarthritis. It helps to reduce pain and other negative symptoms but more importantly it has been shown to slow and in some cases halt further joint damage. This is merely a short list of some of the basic essential supplements that virtually everyone can and should be benefiting from. A healthy diet is vital but may not provide the level of certain nutrients needed to truly optimize health and protect against many of the disease states that are so prevalent in society. Vitamin and mineral supplementation can be a very confusing topic so it is strongly advised that individuals should seek out a qualified health professional to develop the best supplement regimen for them. Next month we will be interviewing one such person. Dr. Christine Slonetsky is a doctor of naturopathic medicine. She will be providing us with some valuable suggestions for boosting our immune system function for the upcoming cold and flu season.

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Dr. Greg Johnston is a Chiropractor and partner in Family Health Options Treatment & Resources Centre in St.Thomas

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• May 2015 •

Lynette Sykes from Starwood Hotels & Resorts (left) is presented with a 4-pack of tickets to see an Elgin Theatre Guild show by The Auto Guys owner Bob Ward at the April Business After 5 at St. Thomas Roadhouse. The Auto Guys and United Way of Elgin-St. Thomas co-sponsored the networking event.

Business After 5 Wednesday May 6

Sponsored and hosted at the Elgin Business Resource Centre (EBRC) 300 South Edgeware Road It’s an Open House featuring Catering by James Meadows and an opportunity to tour the EBRC site, home to over 20 local businesses and services. Free admission to all personnel from any business or organization that is a Member of the St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce.

The Free Enterprise Awards The St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce Free Enterprise Awards Program is a celebration designed to honour the successes, the entrepreneurship and the spirit of businesses, organizations and individuals that truly distinguish themselves from opportunities within our area. All of our winners must be more than business successes; they must be community successes with evidence of entrepreneurial strength plus dedication to the civic, social or cultural health of our region. On May 13, marking 41 years since the launch of the Awards in 1974, we will continue our proud tradition with the 2015 Awards Reception at St. Anne’s Centre. You are invited to attend the Free Enterprise Awards Reception featuring all of your favourite beverages and exceptional hors d’oeuvres, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $30 per person, advance sale only, via the Chamber office or website. Awards will be presented this year in two categories. Details on each winner will be fully released at the Awards Reception. Free Enterprise Master Awards Since the inception of the Free Enterprise Program these awards have recognized businesses, organizations and individuals who have made significant, all-encompassing contributions within the local communities served by the Chamber. The recipients are those who are proven leaders, as evidenced by their repeated success in endeavours which relate to our economic, social and civic well-being. Although it is not one of the criteria for recognition, receipt of one of the Free Enterprise Master Awards is generally regarded as a “once-in-a-lifetime” accomplishment. No more than three winners may be named in any year. Free Enterprise Merit Awards In 1988 the awards program was expanded to include

The Chamber sincerely thanks the 2015 Free Enterprise Awards sponsors: • ARC Financial Group • Elgin Business Resource Centre (EBRC) • Fanshawe College • Graham Scott Enns LLP Chartered Accountants • Gorman-Rupp of Canada Limited • myFM 94.1 Radio • Photos by MG • Quai du Vin Estate Winery • RBC Royal Bank • Reith & Associates Insurance and Financial Services • Workforce Planning & Development Board additional presentations of the Free Enterprise Merit Awards. Recognition is made to those businesses or individuals nominated for recent or specific, individual accomplishments. There is no limit to the number of times any business, organization or individual may receive a Free Enterprise Merit Award. Recipients in both Free Enterprise Award categories are chosen by the Chamber’s Awards & Recognition Committee, headed by the immediate Past Chair of our Board of Directors. Chairing the 2014/2015 Committee is Laura Woermke, Curator and Executive Director of the St. Thomas – Elgin Public Art Centre. Committee Members are responsible for an ongoing collection of potential recipient names and invite suggestions and recommendations from the community at any time. The Chamber sincerely thanks the Members of our Awards & Recognition Committee for their work on this major project.

Business Beat Table of Contents Twitter tips................. Page 10 Golf Day..................... Page 11 Legal Business........... Page 12 New location.............. Page 13 Better safe.................. Page 14 Budget view............... Page 15 MOL blitz................... Page 16 May, 2015

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E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 9

Viewpoint Events and News of Interest to our Members

Four beginning Twitter tips for business

by Christina R. Green

In the 12 months from the start of 2014 to the beginning of 2015 the number of Twitter users grew by 50 million, and it’s estimated that close to 1/5 of Internet users have Twitter accounts. The average Twitter user follows 5 businesses so if you’re not trying to reach your customers on Twitter you’re missing an opportunity. Twitter is easy enough to understand, just share something 140 characters or less. You can share links, images, or videos. Here are a few other tips for businesses just starting out on Twitter: 1. Use hashtags Twitter is as hard to follow as the ticker tape on a stock page. It’s a constant barrage of messaging, particularly for those accounts that follow a lot of people. Hashtags, or pound signs (#), help people search for the information they want. Using an appropriate hashtag can expand the reach of your business and help potential customers find what they’re looking for. Employ one specific to your business and use hashtags that are relevant. For instance, Jake’s Jewelry Store might use all, or any, of the following hashtags in tweets

with images of gifts for mom: #jakes, #mothersday, #gift. You can also use popular hashtags of trending topics, when applicable, like #marchmadness or #50shadesofgrey. 2. Share images This tip applies to most of social media but Twitter will display images prominently in the stream so it’s a good way to get your followers’ attention. 3. Rise above the noise Find ways to stand out from others who are merely posting articles they’ve written. Ask questions. Have conversations. Thank people for sharing your content. One of the easiest ways to create loyal followers, at least initially, is through commenting on what they share – either by providing your own opinions or asking them follow-up questions. Avoid sending out automated thank you messages to new followers. While the concept seems nice – thanking them for following you – they come off as exactly what they are, robotic. Plus many Twitter users don’t check their messages box because of the large number of these they receive. In addition to finding customers and potential customers on Twitter, it’s good to connect with influencers in your industry or audience such as mommy bloggers or niche bloggers. 4. Follow the Golden Rule To follow back or not to follow back. That is the question and the answer for business is follow back, or do unto others as you would like them to do to you. There are exceptions to this rule. Twitter will cap you at

2,000 following (people you follow) if your followers (number of people who follow you) are not fairly equal. For instance, if you followed 2,000 people but only 500 followed you, Twitter will not allow you to follow any more until those numbers get within (about) 200 of each other. Twitter won’t tell you the exact number that it takes but you will be limited until those follower numbers rise. You also don’t want your followers and following number too far off of one another because: If you are following too many people, and a relatively equal number is not following you back, it looks like you’re not sharing worthwhile information. On the other hand, If a lot of people are following you and you’re only following a handful, you look like a bit of a jerk. That’s okay for reality TV stars but people who are using Twitter for business should be a little more congenial. You can manage your Twitter followers through tools like ManageFlitter, Followerwonk (a Moz app) or Friend or Follow. Many of these tools can help you tell which accounts are spam bots or fake accounts or inactive accounts. (You don’t want to spend time engaging those.) They also help you isolate influencers in your area. There are pages and pages of tips written on topics like Twitter for business but the best thing to keep in mind is your humanity. Don’t make it all about your business and be gracious. Find ways to connect with people on a more personal level and imagine every tweet you’re sending could be seen by your grandmother, unless you’re in the type of business you don’t want your grandmother to know about. Christina R. Green teaches small businesses, Chambers and associations how to connect through content. Her articles have appeared in the Midwest Society of Association Executives’ Magazine, NTEN. org, AssociationTech, and Socialfish. She is a regular blogger at Frankjkenny.com and Memberclicks. She’s just a bookish writer on a quest to bring great storytelling to organizations everywhere.

Business Beat Published by Metroland Media Group Ltd., and delivered to businesses in St. Thomas and Elgin Country For complete information on the St. Thomas and District Chamber of Commerce, reach us at: 115-300 South Edgeware Rd., St. Thomas, Ontario N5P 4L1 Telephone: 519-631-1981 Fax: 519-631-0466 E-Mail: mail@stthomaschamber.on.ca Website: www.stthomaschamber.on.ca President & CEO Bob Hammersley Accounting Coordinator Susan Munday Member Services Warren Allen

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St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce 2015 Board of Directors Chair: Ross Fair Fanshawe College Vice-Chair: Dan Kelly, CPA, CGA Dowler-Karn Ltd. Treasurer: Mark Lassam, CPA, CA Lassam & Co. Past Chair: Laura Woermke St. Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre Director: Sean Dyke St. Thomas Economic Development Corp. Director: Robert Furneaux Gorman-Rupp of Canada Ltd. Director: Brian Helmer Reith & Associates Insurance & Financial Director: Kevin Jackson Elgin Business Resource Centre Director: Jeff Kohler City of St. Thomas Director: Phil Mauer Phil Mauer & Associates Inc. Director: Ginette Minor Alexelle Slipcovers & Décor Director: Rob Mise myFM Radio 94.1

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 10

Chamber News Events and News of Interest to our Members

Last call for Chamber Golf Day The Chamber proudly presents our annual Members Golf Day on Thursday May 28. This year marks our 41st consecutive year of delivering this premier event at one of southwestern Ontario's best courses, the beautiful and challenging St. Thomas Golf & Country Club. Registration is capped at 120 players for this event to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable pace for all players. At deadline time for this issue, only a few spaces were left and a sell-out is expected. Our registration fee this year is $595 for a foursome and $159 single. Contact Member Services Rep Warren Allen at the Chamber for more: 519631-1981 Extension 526 or email warren@stthomaschamber.on.ca Organized by the Chamber’s Member Services Committee, our volunteers and staff have planned a day that’s filled with fun, cash prizes and a lot more. Registration starts at 9:45 a.m. Our Scramble event features an 11:00 a.m. (sharp) shotgun start with 18 holes of golf and a lot of fun ways to win great prizes. Special feature prizes this year include a chance to win the use of a Cadillac for a weekend courtesy Disbrowe Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac Ltd, plus the chance to win $10,000 with a Holein-One from our hole sponsor Reith & Associates and another chance at $5,000 for a Hole-in-One from hole sponsor MD Electric. Prizes will also be awarded for Lowest Foursome Team Score, Men’s Longest Drive, Women’s Longest Drive, Closest

to the Water Hazard, and more. For those that need a little help along the way, there is a “NoPro Package” available with a “Gimme String” for the greens, Mulligan Cards for the one-off swing, and Grenade Cards to get out of those dreaded sandtraps. Arrangements have also been made with a couple of golf pros providing a “Golf Pro Driving Clinic” for those wanting to imParts Ltd. prove their swing. 7. Mark A. Wales, CPA, CA The day includes a delicious BBQ Lunch and 8. St. Thomas Economic Development wraps up with a post-game social mixer and an Corporation all-you-can-eat dinner. After dinner, we will make 9. Disbrowe Chevrolet Buick GMC Cadillac presentations to the Winning Team, along with Ltd - Win a Cadillac for the weekend the winners of the Special Hole Prizes and the 10. MD Electric - $5,000 Hole-in-One 50/50 Draw. Our 2015 Silent Auction offers a 11. Elgin County Economic Development & Spa Package, BBQ Package, Date Night Package, Tourism Golf Package and more to bid on. 12. Impressions Printing Golf can be a team sport, and we are very grate13. Reith & Associates Insurance & Financial ful for the sponsors on the Chamber’s team this Services Ltd. - $10,000 Hole-in-One year: 14. MarkIT Technology Solutions Group Main Event Sponsor 15. Michael Clark Construction Libro Credit Union 16. myFM Radio 94.1 Golf Cart Sponsor 17. Millcreek Plumbing & Mechanical Ltd. OLG Slots at Western Fair Raceway 18. GCW Custom Kitchens & Cabinetry Inc. BBQ Lunch Sponsor Callon Dietz Inc Charity Putt for CA$H Sponsor Legends Tavern Hole Sponsors 1. Lassam & Co., Mark Lassam, CPA, CA 2. St. John Ambulance 3. MyWaterGuy.ca - Simply Pure Water 4. Boston Pizza Business Plans • Management Consulting 5. Phil Mauer & Associates Inc. Small Business Services • Bookkeeping Services 6. McGregor Auto Estate and Trust Returns

Commitment to Excellence

We have plans! Here’s news of a change. Our previously-announced regional Chamber business show has been postponed. Originally scheduled for June 2, it will move to Wednesday November 25, 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., at the Agri-Plex in London’s Western Fair District. The show has been an annual production assembled by the Chambers of Commerce in London, St. Thomas, Ingersoll, Tillsonburg and Strathroy. This year, we’re adding a new feature that involves some well-known celebrities and personalities but schedule issues mean we’re delaying ‘til November. More details to follow. Save This Date – Saturday August 29 If you have liked our annual “St. Thomas Uncorked” wine taste event, we bet you’ll see the value in a new event called “St. Thomas Uncapped.” For now, all we can say is craft beer and BBQ on the evening of August 29. More details soon here in Business Beat, in the Chamber’s weekly Green Mail newsletter, on our website and in our social media posts via Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. May, 2015

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E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 11

Legal Business Events and News of Interest to our Members

April is the cruellest decision is likely to cartwheel into every municipal council chamber in I have no clue what Mr. Eliot Canada. really meant when he wrote in Lawyers know things The Wasteland that April is the always get interesting cruellest month. But each year, when the Supreme Court after the groundhog has (or hasn’t) seen his/her shadow, af- Monty Fordham has to deal with the Canadian Charter of Rights ter March comes in like a lion/ lamb and goes out as lamb/lion, after April fool’s and Freedoms, particuand the Easter bunny, I develop a certain uneasy larly freedom of religion. premonition of things to come. Yes, that’s right, But you can bet it will get downright thrilling when it is the season of distracting court proceedings. Now you probably think I’m going to talk about one of the combatants is the Mike Duffy fraud, breach of trust, bribery an atheist. Now, I should trial. However, the trial, at least to this point tell you that some of my (being my deadline) has been about as exciting best friends are atheists (I as evaporating water. I do think that will change don’t know who they are, next month (or maybe the month after that) or but I thought I should tell you anyway). You see, they don’t, as a rule, go not. More next month. No, the proceeding that intrigued me most in about proselytizing their unbelief. In fact, for the April was the Supreme Court’s decision in the Sa- most part, they seem quite complacent in their guenay case. That’s the one about prayer before the unannointed condition. Alan Simoneau is a resident of Saguenay Quemunicipal council meeting. Granted, for most of us, the case has no importance whatsoever, it be- bec, who, like most of us, likes to watch muing concerned exclusively with council proceed- nicipal council meetings. In fact, he doesn’t just ings in Saguenay, Quebec. However, in true April watch them on T.V. He actually prefers to attend fashion, the highest court demonstrated more in person. Alan is an atheist. The council of Saverbal gymnastics than an election campaign. The guenay has traditionally stood and recited a prayer before council meetings. It is the same prayer the Speaker of the House of Commons recites before the Parliament of Canada convenes. The recitation of the prayer offended Alan’s atheism and he complained to the Quebec Human Rights Tribunal, which exclusively for members of the agreed with him. The St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce Quebec Court of Appeal granted the town’s appeal and the case found its way to the top court. The Court said: “the state is required to act in a manner that is respectful of every person’s freedom of conscience and religion.” This freedom is protected under the Charter of rights and Freedoms. But, at least on Visa® credit on Interac® Direct on Mastercard® credit for me, next is where receipts with Payment receipts with receipts with electronic deposits electronic deposits electronic deposits the analysis gets a little murky. The Court went on to say “...the state must remain neutral involving this freedom.” The Court conceded that the balance between freedom of conscience and religion and For complete details, contact the Chamber 115 - 300 South Edgeware Road, St. Thomas Phone: 519-631-1981 Fax: 519-631-0466 the duty of neutrality is a “delicate one,” but Email: mail@stthomaschamber.on.ca www.stthomaschamber.on.ca in the end decided that by Monty Fordham

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“the analysis gets a little murky” “sponsorship of one religious tradition by the state in breach of its duty of neutrality amounts to discrimination against all other traditions.” the Court found that previous cases had found that “freedom of religion” includes the “freedom to have no religion.” The opening prayer, therefore had to go. The Charter apparently says so. But isn’t this the same Charter which, in its preamble states, “Whereas Canada is founded upon the principles that recognize the supremacy of God and the rule of law”? And doesn’t Parliament open with the same prayer as the town council used? These facts required some serious judicial stick handling. The Court stated, “There is no evidence before us in the purpose of the prayer in the H of C. ... the circumstances of the two prayers are different... it is possible that the House’s prayer is subject to parliamentary privilege.” So. Okay to pray in parliament. As for the Charter, the Court stated “The reference to the supremacy of God in the preamble cannot lead to an interpretation of freedom of conscience and religion that authorized the state to consciously prefer a theistic faith.” Huh? A recent survey found that 66% of Canadians professed a belief in God. 24% would classify themselves as atheist. I’m not sure about the rest, but I suspect they’re not sure either. This decision should not galvanize either side of this debate. It is, however, the law of the land. Lawyer Monty Fordham prepares this monthly column for the St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce and our Members. Monty is also a volunteer serving on the Chamber’s Board of Directors. Questions, comments and suggestions for future columns are welcomed by Monty at his office: Fordham & Brightling Associates – Lawyers, 4 Elgin Street, St. Thomas. Telephone 519-633-4000, FAX 519-633-1371 or e-mail: montyfordham@4elgin.ca 12

Member News Events and News of Interest to our Members

A big move & expansion!

Jeff Campbell, President of St. Thomas Rent-All, is pictured in front of their new location at 1241 Talbot Street in St. Thomas. After 37 years in one location, a popular St. Thomas family business has relocated to new premises. St. Thomas Rent-All, a long-standing fixture in the equipment rental business at the corner of Elm & Elmina Streets in St. Thomas since 1978, acquired the property at 1241 Talbot Street and moved in April. Maybe they’ve got a thing for former car dealerships? The new location was mostly recently used as a multi-bay auto repair shop, but may be remembered to some local residents as the former site of Cliff’s Sunoco and a Nissan car dealership. The original structure on the site dates to the 1950s but had a major expansion in 1981. The previous St. Thomas Rent-All shop on Elm Street was a gas station, a restaurant and, at one time, a Volkswagen dealership. St. Thomas Rent-All staff and management have been active participants in community projects and activities from the beginning in the 70s. Founded by Jeff Campbell’s Mom & Dad, Marion and Ross Campbell, St. Thomas Rental-All was recognized by the Chamber as the recipient of a Free Enterprise Master Award in 2011. The new and much larger premises on Talbot provide a much larger showroom and expanded indoor and outdoor storage for hundreds of items of all types and sizes. The new location covers 6,000 square feet on a 1.5 acre site.

Bob Ward from the Auto Guys (left) congratulates Scott McRae from Forest City Castings for winning four tickets to see Toronto FC at BMO Field in the April door prize draw at Business After 5. The event was held at St. Thomas Roadhouse and co-hosted by United Way and the Auto Guys

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E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 13

Pro Text Events and News of Interest to our Members

The case for overland water protection by Dan Reith

Is now the time for overland water protection for homeowners? One Canadian insurance company thinks so. Let us consider some key facts: • No Canadian insurance company currently offers flood and/or overland water protection insurance to Canadian homeowners. • Canada is the only G8 country without the coverage available in the marketplace and the only G8 without a national flood strategy. • Where past large water loss claims were paid by insurers, they were paid as a gesture of goodwill or under back-up of sewer cover because of the uncertainty as to the actual cause of the loss and because overland water protection cover never existed before. • Canada is wetter, warmer and stormier than in the past. • Weather patterns are changing globally with average temperatures increasing by 1.3 degrees C; average rainfall increasing by 12% and Canadians today experience 20 more days of rain each year. • Since 1970 the average number of events that

qualify for federal financial assistance under the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements (DFAA) program has increased three times. • DFAA costs for flood have quadrupled in 40 years from $300 million in the 1970s to $3.7 billion over the past four years. Before 2009, insurance company claim settlements as a result of severe weather were negligible. Compare this with annual claims payouts for severe weather of over $1 billion - $2.3 billion in 2013 alone in Canada. Severe weather is increasingly the norm, and insurance companies are finding the need to respond. Their choice is clear, create affordable coverage that can respond to these losses or elect to withdraw from the market in this capacity and not provide innovative coverage solutions that meet rising consumer need.

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all timely that Aviva has come to market with this innovative coverage given Environment Canada reports that in the future severe weather events that used to happen every 40 years can now be expected to happen every 6 years. Aviva Insurance has introduced Overland Water Protection coverage because the need is there. Research concludes 43% of Canadians do not know if their home insurance covers for overland water damage. Of those who claimed to know, 37% were incorrect as to what their coverage actually provided for. The use of improved mapping technology and data to model the severity and frequency of water losses has allowed for the development of a sustainable product. In spite of overland water protection ...costs for flood now being available it is unlikely Cahomeowners will ever see achave quadrupled nadian tual flood coverage anytime soon. Apart from the absence of a national flood in 40 years... protection strategy there is an absence of any capability to adequately assess and predict coastal flooding. Coming to market in May 2015, overland water One insurance company has responded with protection will be made available as a part of an a solution. While we will overall water loss strategy and available to those likely never see flood policyholders who qualify. Before the heavy suminsurance coverage in mer rains are upon us it is recommended that you its true form until such review your home insurance policy and learn just time as the nation de- what you are covered for. If you have an interest velops a flood response in learning more about overland water protection strategy, we do now have and/or the cost any insurance broker representing a response to the matter Aviva can assist you. of overland water damage as created by heavy This column appears regularly in Business Beat rains, snow melt and the and has been submitted by Dan Reith, BA(Hons) overflow of lakes and CAIB, a principal of Reith & Associates Insurance rivers as a result of the and Financial Services Limited, 462 Talbot Street, heavy rains and snow. St. Thomas. Questions and comments on this colThat one insurance com- umn are welcomed by the writer at 519-631-3862 pany is Aviva. It is after or via e-mail: info@reithandassociates.com

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Chamber News Events and News of Interest to our Members

Double budget – Ottawa + Queen’s Park The presentations of a new federal budget and a new Ontario budget within 48 hours of each other on April 21 & 23 generated the usual level of attention from all politicians involved. The authors of each document claim their path is the only path, while the opposition parties bark comments that are entirely the opposite. Within the Chamber of Commerce network across the country and across the province, we try to focus away from the rhetoric and grandstanding, and look at what matters to our Members – the business community and employees and their families. First, a look at the federal budget from the Canadian Chamber’s Chief Economist Hendrik Brekel. This is an election year, and this is undoubtedly an election budget. There is a strong emphasis on tax cuts for the (hardworking) Canadian families that will receive the bulk of federal largesse this year. Just the income splitting and the expanded universal child care benefit will cost $7.8 billion in 2015 and $4.5 billion per year thereafter. From innovation to infrastructure to the environment, this budget has something for everyone. In fact, we at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce were pleasantly surprised by a number of the business-friendly tax adjustments and spend-

ing commitments. Back in the summer of 2014, the government was forecasting a $1.9 billion surplus on top of a $3 billion contingency fund. Then oil prices collapsed from $100 to $45 by the beginning of January and the Parliamentary Budget Officer expected that the resulting $5.5 billion hit to the federal treasury would leave a deficit of $400 million. Minister Oliver delayed the budget by a couple of months citing “economic uncertainty.” Since then oil prices have recovered slightly, to around $56 this morning, and we expect them to be back in the $65 by ...Queen’s Park year-end. The appears dedicated government also enjoyed to taking a very slow a $3.4 billion approach on debt and windfall from deficit... the sale of GM shares. As a result, there is room for some helpful measures to support Canadian business, a few things that will make life easier for business, a couple of gimmicks and a nice healthy surplus of $1.4 billion.

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Our detailed economic analysis of the federal budget can be viewed on the Chamber website at stthomaschamber.on.ca. On the provincial side of the budget book, Queen’s Park appears dedicated to taking a very slow approach on debt and deficit and little is being done to ease the burden on business and get the provincial finances back in order. In the last fiscal year, 2013-14, Ontario ran a $10.5 billion deficit. For 2014-15, they’re predicting a bigger loss at $10.9 billion. That means total provincial debt will grow to $284 billion this year – equivalent to $20,772 of debt for every person living in Ontario. Interest payments on that debt will be $11.4 billion for the year. That said, the province says it is committed to eliminating the deficit by fiscal 2017-18 by managing wage costs and continuing a “comprehensive” program review. For the year ahead, program spending will rise again by another 1.5 percent despite cuts in education, health and other key areas. For a more detailed look and analysis from a business perspective, see the Chamber’s website at stthomaschamber.on.ca.

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Chamber News Events and News of Interest to our Members

Be ready for MOL blitz on new and young workers Free 45-minute webinar: a good first step

On May 1, Ministry of Labour inspectors started conducting a four-month enforcement blitz focusing on young workers aged 14 to 24 years, and new or reassigned workers on the job for less than six months. These workers are three times more likely to be injured during their first month on the job than at any other time, so convert this annual enforcement rite of spring into a customized injury prevention strategy. Getting first-hand information should be an integral part of your strategy. Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS) is hosting a live webinar in collaboration with the Ministry of Labour (MOL) on Thursday May 14, 2015. Members of the St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce have the opportunity to hear about why the MOL chose to inspect workplaces that hire new and young workers and also what inspectors would be looking for when they enter your premises. Register for the webinar early so you don’t

miss out. Visit www.wsps.ca/Shop/Training/Webinars or call the toll-free number at the bottom of this article for assistance. Also, as you await the webinar date you could pro-actively use the following six suggestions on how to develop a prevention program for new and young workers. While based on best practices, they’re also mindful of past enforcement blitz results. 1. Before hiring, assess hazards related to the jobs you're hiring for. Can you implement better controls? Is your job- and hazard-specific training up to the mark? 2. Review and update orientation training to ensure new workers know how to work safely and productively. But delivering the training is just the start. Have they grasped it? Are they able to apply it? Try this: tell them how to do it, show them how to do it, and then watch them do it. Also, keep records. An inspector will want

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to know what the training covers, who's taken it, and if they have understood the training and are applying it. 3. Conduct your own blitz inspection. Ask new and young employees questions that an inspector might ask, such as where is the MSDS binder? What would they do if a customer becomes angry or aggressive? How would they get that product down from the rack? If employees can't answer the question correctly, you’ve got your topic for the next safety talk. 4. Take generational and cultural differences into account. The best way to communicate with and train workers differs from one group to another. For instance, young workers may be more comfortable with technology than older workers, and workers new to Canada may prefer training material in a language other than English. Understanding which methods and languages will be most effective with each group will help you communicate effectively, increasing comprehension and results. 5. Create a buddy system so that new hires have an experienced worker who can coach them and answer questions. This is particularly helpful for people entering the workforce for the first time or new to Canada. Adjusting to a new job may just be one step in adjusting to a new life. 6. Observe workers as they perform tasks. Coach, retrain, and offer positive reinforcement, especially when workers ask about safety. Always reinforce a corrective action as a positive result for everyone involved. Supervisors have an important role to play in implementing your injury prevention strategy so ensure all supervisors are aware of their responsibilities and have completed the mandatory supervisor awareness training. If you require further information or assistance you may call WSPS at 1 877 494 WSPS (9777) or email them at customercare@wsps.ca

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E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 16

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY Career Choices

Hiring youth:

Job coaching for success and the bottom line

by Laura Pavilonis and Nancy Annett

Job coaching when hiring youth is critical to their success and your company’s bottom line. Government programs now define youth as those aged 15-30 years of age, and this group faces a number of barriers to success in the workplace that many other workers never faced. High youth employment rates, hitting almost 21% in this area, have impacted their ability to acquire some of the transferrable skills employers require. Because of this, some have labelled this group the ‘scarred generation.’ Will life skills trailing fall behind those that allowed previous generations to gain much needed skills? One of the fundamental skill deficiencies is in the area of business etiquette. This includes the expected behaviours and expectations required in the workplace including treating coworkers and the employer with respect and courtesy. After hiring thousands of youth, we’ve found that communication, punctuality, accepting criticism and professional presentation are some of the largest skill gaps. So, making the wrong hire even at a general minimum wage rate of $11.25 as of October 1, 2015, can be a costly mistake. If an employer invests 10 weeks in training, only to turn around and let them go shortly thereafter, that will cost your organization upwards of $4,200. But that’s not the only cost. There are also significant investment losses associated with recruiting, in both time and energy. Investing in job coaching can help youth bridge their skill gaps and remove the pressure of leaders within the organization who may simply not have the time or skills to coach them in what may be their first work experience. And don’t be fooled into thinking coaching this generation is easy. This new generation has very different values and is the product of differences in social views as well as technological and economic changes. They want to have a significant voice and autonomy, are committed to social responsibility and want time to enjoy relationships and personal interests and activities. If you need help, there are coaching organizations that specialize in working with youth in the field of job coaching. As well, parents we’ve worked with have found making the investment to help their child on their career path a worthwhile venture. We sometimes see thousands of dollars on children's education, only to see lack-luster performance when it comes to the work world. Nancy Annett, MBA, CHRP owns Take the time and resources necIgnite Career Life Solutions, and Laura essary to make job coaching a part Pavilonis, MBA, CHRP owns Reach of youth work success, helping to Beyond Limits. Together, they form Rock ensure long-term success in the Your Career Club. workplace.

Quantum RBS partners with KeepItSafe® In April, Kim Marcotte, CEO of Quantum RBS announced that the secure offsite backup business located in St. Thomas has formed a strategic partnership with KeepItSafe®, a global leader in backup solutions. KeepItSafe is a part of j2 Global Canada with offices across North America, Europe and Australasia. Apart from the future name change and where payment will be sent, this process should be nearly seamless, Marcotte said. “Backups will continue to run in the same way they always have, without interruption, and data files and backup history will be available for recovery as normal.” May, 2015

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E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 17

Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce

Tips to prepare your home for sale by Jeff Wiebenga

or any other items you Many home buyers today are looking for a expect to remain at the move-in-ready home that they can quickly settle house will be helpful. in. In order to maximize your value and shorten Also having a list availyour sales time, here are a few tips to help prepare able of the costs for utilities will save time. your home for sale. 3. Think ahead. Re1. Best foot forward. Step back in front of your house and take a look at your home from a placement estimates prospective buyer’s eye. Is your house welcoming? are helpful for items Does it entice you to check out the inside? It may that may be in need of be a matter of trimming the bushes, sweeping the repair. By having an estimate, it can help a prowalkway, fixing some downspouts or freshening spective buyer determine whether they can afford up some trim with paint. If your home doesn’t the home and the repairs. Sometimes knowing the amounts can help educate and have a great first impression, ease the stress of the unknown. buyers will carry on their 4. A little elbow grease. Minor search. “small problems should repairs on your home should be 2. Be prepared. Having be fixed” done regardless of whether you are good notes of when items interested in selling. Small probwere purchased, repaired or replaced can help prospective buyers see that lems should be fixed such as: torn screens, cracked the home has been well maintained. Setting aside caulking, leaky faucets, minor drywall fixes or the user manuals, warranties, guarantees for your paint. It may not seem like much but in order to washer/dryer/appliances, furnace/air conditioner help seal the deal, it is important to have a clean

slate. 5. Begin packing now. Once you have made the decision to sell your house, it can be helpful to begin packing up decorative items, seasonal clothing or personal things that you do not necessarily use. Make sure that closets are organized, floors are clear and the basement is organized. 6. Clean, clean & clean. A good thorough clean from top to bottom is fantastic any time of year. Clean your appliances, walls or items that show fingerprints, mop the floors, eliminate cooking odors, pet smells or smoke. Pay attention to the little details. Remember when selling your house, buyers will come in with all five senses ready to make a decision whether they want to call this home. Jeff Wiebenga is a broker with Showcase East Elgin Realty Inc.

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Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce

Tips for financing your small business Submitted by Karyn Silliker

NC)— The old adage “Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life” is the mantra many small business owners use to justify the endless time and energy needed to successfully start a small business. And while their passion and energy may be limitless, for many would-be small business owners, their resources are not. “Many people looking to start their own business find that they need startup capital, whether it’s for purchasing space, equipment or just to establish a healthy cash flow,” says Jeff Brown, Vice President, Delivery Initiatives and Business Integration at Meridian, Ontario’s largest credit union. “Securing sufficient credit is crucial when establishing your small business and many people find this process to be an uphill battle.” Brown outlines the following tips when securing financing for your small business: Create a business plan – A well-crafted business plan is vital for securing financing. Your business plan should outline the following: your business idea, how it fits in the current market landscape, how you plan to make profit, and what your start up budget is. It’s essential that your business plan outline how much financing you require, what the funds would be used for and when you plan to repay the loan. Look for a variety of financing sources – Funding sources are not just limited to financial institutions. There are a variety of government grants and programs that can help a small business get off the ground. A listing of government grants and loans can be found via the federal government’s Canada Business Network at canadabusiness.ca. Get organized – When meeting with a financial institution to discuss potential lending options for your small business be prepared to bring a lot of financial paperwork with you. In addition to your business plan, you should also bring copies of your personal banking records and statements in order for the financial institution to determine your ability to pay back the loan. Determine your lending needs – There is a wide range of lending products available to small businesses from operating lines of credits and credit cards to commercial mortgages. A small business advisor can help you navigate your options to ensure you pick the right lending product suited to your needs. Don’t lose hope if you’re declined – Work with your small business advisor to fully understand why your proposal was declined and they can advise you on how to strengthen your proposal. In some cases, the financial institution may require you to request or smaller loan amount or invest more of your own capital into the business. More advice and resources for small business owners Karyn Silliker are available online through Meridian’s Small Business is Meridian’s Aylmer Branch Resource Centre at smallbusiness.meridiancu.ca. Manager.

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Golf In Elgin County

Don't let golfing pain be par for the course (NC) A little know-how can help golfers avoid unnecessary injury. Considering the number of times a swing is repeated during a game, it's not surprising that the season often ends early for those who are not physically prepared. Every year, Ontario's chiropractors say they treat countless golfers for injuries that could easily have been prevented. That's why the Ontario Chiropractic Association's public awareness campaign called “Get in the Game Without the Pain,” is one of its most popular programs year after year. Below are a few simple stretching techniques that can help prevent or reduce the impact of injuries: Side bending stretch 1. Stand with feet shoulder-width apart. 2. Hold the golf club above your head with your arms straight. 3. Slowly bend to one side, without rotating, until you feel a stretch in the side of your back. 4. Hold for 15 seconds and repeat twice for each side. Shoulder stretch 1. Hold the shaft of a golf club vertically behind your back. 2. Gently pull the club up with your top hand until you feel a slight stretch in the shoulder of your lower arm. Hold for 15 seconds. 3. Gently pull the club down with your bottom hand until you feel a stretch in the top shoulder and arm. 4. Hold for 15 seconds. 5. Reverse hand positions and repeat. The awareness program, which features a poster and an accompanying brochure, is available at www.chiropractic.on.ca.

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Golf In Elgin County Tips for newcomers to the game of golf driving range. Learn from a professional, who won’t offer you any hidden secrets to golfing glory (there aren’t any) but will offer sound advice on the game’s fundamentals. • Take the game home with you. Beginners can even take advantage of golf ’s vast popularity by taking the game home with them. This doesn’t mean building a putting green in your backyard. Rather, purchase some instructional DVDs to learn the game during your down time throughout the week. Many golfers don’t have time to hit the links during the week, but they do have time to watch some DVDs when they get home from work. Such instructional DVDs can help you master your grip and stance, which you can then take with you to the course over the weekend. • Have fun. Golf is a fun game; it just takes time to hone your skills. But even if you aren’t ready for the professional tour after your first few rounds, you can still have fun. Don’t let some beginner’s frustration, which every golfer experiences, ruin the fun of the game. Take note of your surroundings when you hit the links, and appreciate the time you’re spending with your group. If the game becomes more a source of frustration than fun, then take a break and put in some more work away from the course, be it at the driving range or studying at home.

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GOLF PROMOTION Few hobbies can be as enjoyable one moment and as frustrating the next as golf. Golfers know a great putt can be quickly followed by a bad tee shot, and maintaining their composure through the highs and lows of the game is a key to success on the links.Maintaining that composure isn’t always easy, even for the professionals. It’s even more difficult for beginners, who quickly learn the game of golf involves more than just spending sunny weekend afternoons on pristine golf courses. In fact, golf can be quite demanding, and beginners would be wise to heed a few tips before hitting the course. • Don’t commit to an expensive set of clubs right off the bat. Golf clubs can be very expensive, so beginners should buy an affordable secondhand set of clubs so they can get the hang of what they like before spending a lot of money. Visit a pro shop and explain that you are just a beginner. The shop will likely make some valuable suggestions and might even let you try out a pair of clubs. In addition, many driving ranges allow customers to rent clubs, and this can be a great and inexpensive way to find the right clubs for you. • Take lessons. Even the very best at self-teaching might find it extremely difficult to become a self-taught golfer. When first trying your hand at golf, take some lessons and don’t expect to be playing 18 holes any time soon. Before hitting the course, where you might be discouraged and you might frustrate those golfing behind you, learn the fundamentals by taking a few lessons at the May, 2015

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E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 21

Garden & Backyard Inspirations

Grow your own summer salad (NC) The only thing better than a homemade meal is a homegrown meal – and creating fresh and delicious salads using vegetables, fruits, and herbs grown in your own backyard is about as fresh as it gets when it comes to summer dining. “Self-contained salad bowls are a great way to start growing your own produce,” says Peter Cantley, gardening expert for the President's Choice brand. “They're very low maintenance because they grow right in the container so there's no need to replant them or worry about them having enough room to grow.” If you've never tasted kale raw in a salad, try this recipe, says Cantley, using the PC Kale Bowl. The fruit-and-nut combo is perfect for summer while the balsamic condiment, pine nuts and pecorino give it a wonderful Italian flavour. The recipe easily doubles for a crowd, perfect for your next backyard barbecue. Fresh and Crispy Kale Salad Ingredients • 1/4 cup (50 ml) extra virgin olive oil • 1/4 cup (50 ml) PC Splendido White Condiment With Balsamic Vinegar of Modena • 1 tsp (5 ml) 100% pure medium maple syrup

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• 1/4 cup (50 ml) shaved Pecorino cheese

• Pinch of salt • Pinch of freshly ground black pepper • 1 bunch kale, coarse stems removed • 1/4 cup (50 ml) pine nuts, toasted • 1/4 cup (50 ml) dried currants • 1 tbsp (15 ml) grated lemon rind

Instructions: 1. In a small bowl, whisk together oil, condiment, syrup, salt and pepper. 2. Slice kale into ½-inch (1 cm) wide strips; place in medium bowl. Add dressing; massage into kale leaves until well coated. Let stand for 10 minutes. 3. Add pine nuts and currants, tossing to coat. Garnish with grated lemon rind and Pecorino shavings. More recipe ideas are available online at pc.ca.

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E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 22

Garden & Backyard Inspirations

Imagine a shaded oasis in your yard

(NC) A shady space in your yard, especially one that provides an escape from late-afternoon sun, can be the perfect cooling and calming getaway spot. Combining shade-loving perennials and annuals in a subtly contrasting mix of shape, texture and colour assures beauty and restfulness in this peaceful retreat. “Take a look at the PC hosta called Cool as a Cucumber for example,” says Peter Cantley, gardening expert for President’s Choice brand. “This plant features long, tapered leaves with bright

green margins and white centres. The name itself invokes calm, cool feelings – and this hosta is ideal for areas with minimal sun exposure.” Keep the final height and width of your chosen plants in mind when placing them in the garden. Taller plants should be placed near the back of border gardens or at the center of island-style gardens. Make sure to arrange your selections in clusters of three to five plants of each variety for the most eye-appealing end result. The size of your gar-

den area and the individual space requirements of each type of plant you choose will determine how many plants are needed. Check individual plant tags for the correct spacing and the size of maturity to help you decide. To really accentuate the calming atmosphere, think about adding a small water feature. Pair the soothing sounds of a fountain with a hammock plus your favourite book and your shaded area will be a perfect little summer oasis.*

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Garden & Backyard Inspirations

Make the most of your cottage garden (NC) Adding a small garden and a little landscaping around the exterior of your cottage can help emphasize the natural beauty of the surroundings. However, when planting there you may face certain challenges that you don’t experience with your at-home gardens. “Gardeners outside of the city have to tackle varied degrees of sunlight exposure, wildlife, temperature fluctuations and more,” says Peter Cantley, gardening expert for the President’s Choice brand. “Cottages are designed for downtime, so why not make your garden one that is easy to create and maintain?” Here are a few of Peter’s top tips to help guide you to a beautiful yet manageable cottage garden: Plant selection is everything – Focus on lowmaintenance plants and flowers that are less reliant

on your care. Perennials may go for weeks without being tended to, so try to work with plants that are easy to care for, hassle-free and tolerant of drought. For example, a pretty plant called the PC Hemerocallis Holiday Song is a great option with large, velvety blooms and loads of buds for highvoltage flower power. Plus its orange and scarlet colouring is a perfect complement to any summer sunset. Make sure to mulch - Help preserve moisture and cut down on weeds by covering the soil in your flower beds with a thick layer of mulch (two to four inches). After all, who wants to spend time watering and weeding at the cottage when you could be relaxing? Raised beds – Any issues with limited space or poor soil conditions can be solved with a raised

bed garden. Raised beds allow you to take control and fill your bed with good, welldrained soils. Outline yours with wood or layered stone for an added design touch to match the exterior of your cottage. Containers are your friends – Create a variety of styles, colours and sizes of different containers to decorate your deck, entrances, or even your dock. Have fun with different textures and styles. Mix and match ceramic, fibreglass, clay and wood to create an outdoor space that reflects your own personal style. Play around and get creative. The possibilities are endless. Just make sure that the planters you choose have a large enough soil volume to keep plants hydrated between waterings.

What is your patio-party personality? (NC) A patio is the perfect place for a casual get together with family or an elegant evening with friends. Even better, it is also easy to create a perfect patio-party

space, one that reflects your personality as well as the way you want to entertain. Begin by considering how you want to spend your outdoor patio time. Do you like cooking there, entertaining, or simply kicking back? Then pick one of the top three trends to build your personalized patio-party: 1. Transitional. If you mix up your al fresco fun with casual and more formal entertaining, then patio sets that combine traditional and contemporary accents to create a modern and versatile feel are the perfect choice. Transitional sets come in a variety of materials including aluminum, fabric, and wood. Hot this year is aluminum, with a norusting guarantee for those who like to leave furniture outdoors for the season. When it comes to fabrics, look Your Pool

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for materials that can easily be washed and are able to withstand the wear and tear of summer weather. 2. Over-sized. Is your favourite seat in the house a big comfy overstuffed chair? Then you will love this season’s over-sized patio sets. Comfy and classic pieces, including large couches, deep seating and bistro sets are a popular buy. For bigger yards, large sets that encourage conversation and lounging are perfect for long summer days that last into the night. Traditional, more formal dining sets are easing into more plush patio sets. Cushions in ontrend geometric patterns or stripes are a great way to accessorize to give your patio more personality. For smaller spaces, oversized bistro sets can be easily moved around to accommodate your space and storage options. 3. Customizable. Your patio is an extension of your home – and it’s easy, says Sears Canada, to customize your patio to match your lifestyle. Mix and match a wide variety of colours and patterns with multiple sectionals to create your special summer space. With your perfect patio in place, just kick back in the sunshine and let the lemonade flow. More information is available at www.sears.ca/ patio.

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Garden & Backyard Inspirations

Key to water gardening is balance courtesy of Moore Water Gardens After a long winter with many feet of ice and snow, Elgin residents are happily welcoming the spring thaw and getting into their gardens. The frigid cold of winter and daunting yard work in spring might be difficult to get through, but the payoff in summer make that hard work worthwhile. A beautiful addition to that backyard pe-

rennial garden is a water garden. Pond owners enjoy the rewards of a blooming water garden throughout spring, summer and fall with relatively little work year round. Proper planning when building a water garden will provide a naturally balanced ecosystem with lilies and flowers that bloom all summer.

plant material, and allowing the ecosystem to thrive. People without ponds may be intimidated by a water garden because there are myths about the work required for backyard ponds. There are misconceptions that a pond requires the same amount of work as a swimming pool. This is not true! The water garden is a living garden, so once it is established the mainte...create the sound nance is minimal as the elements of of splashing water the pond function together to create a natural healthy balance. Lilies, lotus, cascading over a cattails, and bog plants along with fish, birds, butterflies, and dragonflies waterfall... are all features of a water garden that work together to create balance. You can create your very own backNew pond owners can yard oasis by adding a pond to your garden. The quickly learn the ways sound of splashing water cascading over a wato make pond owner- terfall, colourful goldfish and koi coming to the ship easy with advice surface for food, fragrant lotus blooms, vibrant from experienced water plants, and lilies blooming all season are just some gardeners and local wa- of the rewards pond owners enjoy. ter garden experts. SucMoving into summer, we are entering the seacessful water gardening son of backyard parties, barbecues with friends is about balancing the and neighbours, and dinner on the patio. Now is pond naturally with vi- the time to consider bringing more life into your brant, vigorous aquatic backyard by creating a water garden.

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Garden & Backyard Inspirations

Enjoy the benefits of a rock garden courtesy of Landscape Ontario landscapeontario.com Rocks gardens should be in full sun Creating a rock garden on an existing slope can turn a difficult planting area into a garden asset. Using the rocks to create a series of terraces forming flat planting areas avoids the problem of erosion from rain or nitrogen. The rocks should be well sunk in the ground and should have the finished appearance of a natural outcrop. For this natural look, the rocks should be of only one type and the larger the better. It is a common mistake to use rocks that are too small. Fewer but larger rocks are more impressive. Rock gardens are raised planting areas Rock gardens are often constructed in conjunction with a garden pool. Using the excavated soil from the pool area as a base for the rock garden is simpler than getting rid of it otherwise. Even if the water garden is not in your plans, the same end can be achieved by creating a sunken garden as an attractive seating area or patio. The pool or seating area should be on the south or sunny side of the rock garden. Sedums are ideally suited for rock gardens. Bulbs & perennials Because a rock garden is a raised area, plants enjoy good drainage which is important in winter. The soil will also warm up more quickly in

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spring to the benefit of many popular rock garden plants that are spring flowering. The earliest flowering plants are the small bulbs such as Snowdrop, Crocus and Winter Aconite. These are ideal rock garden plants and are usually in bloom by midMarch. Ground Phlox in many colours, whiteflowered Rock Cress (Arabis) and blue or purplepink False Rock Cress (Aubretia), follow in April. Perennial Alyssum (on Aurinia) is the popular Basket of Gold with showers of bright yellow blooms. The well drained soil of the rock garden is an ideal place for a collection of Thyme varieties, many with coloured foliage and flowering in many shades of pink plus white. Woolly Thyme is a favourite that will form a low carpet over the rocks. The Sedums or Stonecrops are another family ideally suited to rock gardens. All have interesting foliage in many shades of green, green and gold and wine-red. They all flower with starry blooms in white, yellow, pink and red. They vary greatly in their bloom times, so that with a full collection, one Sedum or another will be in flower from early summer to fall. Sempervivums or Hens and Chickens are rosette-forming plants that can be inserted into holes in the rocks or into rock crevices. With the exception of spring bulbs, most of the perennials mentioned so far are not truly herbaceous but are sub-shrubs or have winter persistent stems or foliage. The winter interest is no doubt one reason for their longtime popularity. Dwarf evergreens and dwarf shrubs It is always the garden ideal to have year-round interest. Evergreen plants provide this in many garden situations and many dwarf varieties are perfect for rock gardens. The very lowgrowing Juniper ‘Blue Rug’ forms an evergreen carpet suited to the low-

est level of the rock garden. In the middle tier, round or arching shapes are found in the many choices available from dwarf forms of Juniper, Hemlock, Spruce and False Cypress. Pyramidal forms have great architectural merit, adding solidity and permanence to the design and perhaps reminding us of mountainous regions. Alberta Spruce is a slow growing dwarf that requires no maintenance. Sunkist Cedar is burnished gold and very striking in winter. Many smaller forms of flowering shrubs can be used in the rock garden. Potentillas are naturally small enough and dwarf forms of Lilac, Weigela, Spirea, Deutzia, etc. are all available. Balance and design The suitability of any plant in the rock garden is dictated by the size of the rocks. It has already been stated that fewer larger rocks are preferable to many small ones. The larger the rock, then the larger the plant may be to achieve a visual balance. Smaller rocks should be used with smaller plants. The bare rocks and soil should have a pleasing effect even before planting. It is unlikely to have rocks of pyramidal or roundish shapes (boulders are not recommended) so contrast in design is found in pyramidal and spherical plant forms. Plants with a cascading habit are well-placed coming down over the rocks. Weeping Hemlocks, Weeping Spruce and shrubs like Cutleaf Stephenandra and Cranberry Cotoneaster will follow the contours of the rocks. It is not the only Cotoneaster for rock garden use, but it is one of the best with wine-red foliage in fall and winter persistent bright red fruit.

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Garden & Backyard Inspirations

How to deal with giant hogweed Courtesy of Beamish Landscape Services

Giant hogweed is an invasive, noxious weed with a sap that can cause painful blisters, even blindness, if it comes in contact with the eyes. How to identify giant hogweed: Giant hogweed grows 3 to 4 metres in height and, when in bloom, carries numerous small, white flowers that form an umbrella shape. It looks like a colossal version of Queen Anne’s lace, or wild carrot and is often mistaken for angelica or cow parsnip because of its similar leaf pattern. Giant hogweed is most commonly recognized by its flowering stalks, the plant blooms in mid-May through July. It is a perennial, meaning it returns every spring. Since arriving in Ontario, the plant has spread quickly, taking advantage of local waterways, including local watersheds, to carry its particularly buoyant seeds. What to do if you spot giant hogweed: If you find the plant in your backyard, it is recommended that you remove it. The weed is a public health hazard and is dangerous to both children and pets. The city advises people to wear protective clothing, including gloves and eye protection to avoid getting the sap on their skin or in their eyes. People are told to remove the flowering head in order to stop the spread of the plant’s seeds and sever the plant’s roots, 8 to 12 centimetres below the surface of the soil. When disposing of the plant, seal what’s left of the weed in a double-bag. Any seeds left behind can germinate for up to 15 years after the parent plant has been killed. How to treat giant hogweed burns: Giant hogweed, if encountered in the wild, should be left alone. “Stay away from it,” unless you are well protected. If your skin comes in contact with the weed, wash any affected areas immediately with soap and water. Keep any affected areas of skin out of direct sunlight and seek medical advice as soon as possible. The website for Beamish Landscape Services is beamishlandscape.com.

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Homestyle Decorating

Furniture arranging (Part 1)

by Renée Carpenter

If your furniture isn’t arranged right, even the most beautiful of rooms can fall short. So how do you create a successful layout? For starters, avoid these mistakes. But if you’re guilty (we’ve all been there!), fear not – it’s easy to rectify with these tricks. Mistake: Wallflower Furniture – Your room may feel bigger with all the furniture pushed up against the wall but if you find yourself having to shout across the room to have a conversation, it may be time to rearrange. I love the look of a sofa floating

in the middle of a room, maybe snuggled up closer to the fireplace and the chairs pulled to create a cozier conversation area. Mistake: Not Considering Space Constraints – Let’s face it: our itty-bitty living rooms won’t magically grow an extra 50 square feet. The sooner you figure out how to work with what you have, the sooner you’ll arrive at an arrangement that works. There are a few tricks for living rooms to get on the accelerated track to furniture-arrangement bliss. We can help you with that! Mistake: Foregoing Zoning – In large, open rooms, bring order by establishing zones for different activities: a seating arrangement for conversations and TVwatching, and a work area with a desk or table for homework, paperwork, and art projects for example. Set up your space according to your needs, rather than the labels a builder may have assigned. Mistake: Beds that Partially Block a Window -- A bed that peeks over a window frame looks odd from the street and can lead to St. Thomas Armoury project uneven fading. HowCall us today to Member of: ever, what if it’s the discuss your The Canadian Association only place for your Make it look betrestoration needs of Heritage Professionals bed? ter with these tricks: Hang floor-length curtain panels that fall behind the headboard and block the back of the headboard from 10 Barrie Blvd, St. Thomas the window, or install top-down, bottom-up shades, which will allow light to come in www.elgincontracting.com but be a backdrop for

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the protruding headboard edges. If your style is modern, go with a platform bed with a headboard that’s low enough to fit beneath the window trim. You can also install an entire wall of curtains as a fabric backdrop. Mistake: Wrong Starting Point – A general rule

...a bed that peeks over a window frame looks odd from the street... of thumb for your bedroom: Start with the bed placement. It’s the most important furniture piece in the space. Mistake: Sticking to Conventions – Yes, conventions are good to stick by much of the time, but occasionally a shake-up is in order. For example, an oblong dining table sat square in the idle of a room can leave space for little to incorporate a buffet and potentially more. Mistake: Forgetting Creature Comforts – Think about what you’ll be doing in the room as you use the furniture. Having a coffee table and side tables within reach of all seats for drinks puts convenience at the forefront. Mistake: Off-Balance Rooms – My nightmare! Shoving the furniture to one side of a room is like a seesaw with only one person. But achieving balance doesn’t mean you have to go completely symmetrical. For example, balance a loveseat on one end of an arrangement with two chairs on the opposite end. Mistake: Poor Rug Relationships – Ideally, all legs of your furniture should be on the area rug. If that isn’t possible, aim to have the front legs of the furniture placed on the rug.

(519) 633-9969

Renée Carpenter owns Jennings Furniture & Design & Stage It With Jennings in St. Thomas.

Joe Preston, M.P. ELGIN-MIDDLESEX-LONDON

• Revenue Canada • Seniors’ Issues • • Citizenship & Immigration • • Employment Insurance • Passport Inquiries • 24 First Ave., Unit 2, St. Thomas, ON N5R 4M5

519-637-2255 • 1-866-404-0406 www.joeprestonmp.ca

May, 2015

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 28

Saturday a.m., a strange moment in time

LIFESTYLE THATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S LIFE

by Elizabeth VanHooren

â&#x20AC;&#x153;And then this happened,â&#x20AC;? is a trend on most remember to put the load of social media platforms. Pinterest describes it as laundry over from the washer a strange moment in time. Or perhaps a picture to the dryer. Finally, I told the kids to that you just can't explain. A photo or video that is so bizarre you just can't stop looking at it. In get in the car that was warmfact, many of the posts are simply pictures with ing up in the driveway. When people in awkward situations with the tag "And I opened up the hatch of our then this happened." People laugh, like, share SUV to throw the overnight bags in, my eldest son peered many of the posts have gone viral. I attempted this form of modern day humour over the back seat. The radio with my husband on one particularly frigid day was blaring, thumping out the this past winter. I mention the weather because bass of a rock song and my son I think it is important to note that our driveway was particâ&#x20AC;&#x153;in the midst of all the singing ularly icy. there was a horrible crashâ&#x20AC;? On all other acbe questions, some head shaking, and truthfully I with a seven-year-old was trying to hold back tears. So when I made it counts it was a rather typical Saturday morning. I had more chores and toothless grin said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I put your seat warmer on back into the house I called him to the back door social engagements on my to do list than was ap- mom and loudened up the radio. We are seriously ... and opened it up to reveal the carnage in the propriate for one day; and yet, I was still attempt- having a party.â&#x20AC;? driveway and simply declared ... I retold this particular part with vivid descriping to fit it all in. To accomplish this, I was operating on warp speed. By seven in the morning I had tion to my husband. I jumped in the driver seat, And then this happened. a load of laundry in the washer, was showered and now all toasty warm, and saw from the clock that ready to get groceries. But first I had to get the despite the setbacks we were right on time. So I Elizabeth VanHooren is kids dressed, fed breakfast and their bags packed relaxed a little; a little carefree, I joined in singGeneral Manager ing along with the radio. It was Saturday morning for a sleepover. of Kettle Creek For a mother, this type of multi-tasking is do- after all. And as I threw the vehicle in reverse I Conservation Authority able, but I find that children and husbands expect remembered thinking it's going to be a great day. The feeling didn't last five seconds, because in their Saturdays to be a little more relaxing, less structured and more carefree. It's a dichotomy the midst of all the singthat is enough to send any busy mother into a fit ing there was a horrible crash of metal on metal of frenzy. I do try and compromise. For instance, I agreed and in the rear view mirthat my sons could eat their breakfast while ror I saw the tail end of watching their favourite Saturday morning car- my husband's truck. There is a walk of toons. However, I returned from packing their overnight bags to find them â&#x20AC;&#x201C; my sons and my shame that accompanies husband â&#x20AC;&#x201C; curled up on the couch watching TV, having an accident in cereal bowls, milk and juice still out on the table. your own driveway. And Call for your Free Consultation with TV off. They were all instructed to get dressed. really there is no easy Brandi Pisek, DD or Mike V. Pisek, DD! And as I attempted to gather the grocery list, I way to tell your husband that you just backed into Walk in patients and new patients are barked out reminders to brush teeth, make beds and, "Yes, you do have to wear school clothes not his truck and fairly nicealways welcome and all insurance ly embedded his hitch play clothes." plans are accepted As we congregated in the mud room, I finished into the bumper of your (financing available). zipping zippers and finding matches to missing SUV. I knew that there would Come visit us today and letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s get mitts while also asking my husband to try and

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Dining & Entertainment Food & Wine

Alcohol in stores: questionable for beer, questionable for consumers

brand can brew domestically. A greater selection on the shelves from fewer brewers. Last month I promised to talk a little more about Even if beer sales come to one of our local grothe strengths and failings of the provincial govern- cery stores, I wouldn’t expect change anytime ment’s plan to liberalize the sale of alcohol. Since soon. The plan is to pilot the expansion into that article was printed, there have been some de- privately owned grocery stores over the next two velopments; some good, some bad, some expect- years. You read that right – the 450 stores will not ed, some unexpected. So this month I am going to actually be selling beer until summer 2017. This tackle a few of the changes that were announced. choice makes political sense, if not common sense. So what has happened? The government has de- The government allows private grocery stores in cided to make some changes to the way beer is remote locations to operate alcohol sales establishdistributed in the province. Select large grocery ments. We know a pilot has been done for a while. stores, up to 450, will be allowed to sell beer. The key to this seemingly long rollout is the poliWonderful news! But wait, there are a few catches. tics – 2017 will be about assessing the situation How the licences are being distributed/sold, and and refining. This will all lead to the key summer the operating conditions for those licences have – 2018. Summer 2018, the sales will be so smooth yet to be announced. The sources I’ve read have all that you could almost use this as a cornerstone of said that the grocery stores a campaign if there happened to that will initially be able to be a provincial election that fall. ...expect to feel sell beer are only in larger (Surprise! It turns out there is this tax hike in urban centres. Will we see one scheduled for that October a grocery store in Elgin 4). your pocketbook... County carrying beer? I The current plan is to restrict am not too sure yet. beer sold at the select grocery Plans to bring indepenstores to 6-packs or less. The dent wine and spirits to grocery stores has been changes will also allow the LCBO to begin carryshelved for now. This boils down to a simple series ing larger volumes such as 12- and 24-unit cases. of problems: Ontario wine wants more market ac- All of this is designed to cut into the Beer Store’s cess (our growth is limited more by channel than share of the revenues. The Beer Store is under presby demand), the provincial government doesn’t sure to allow a greater volume of craft beer to be want to be seen as anti-Ontario, and giving Ontar- showcased in its stores. This is one aspect of the io wines/ciders more access alone would put On- announced changes that I can’t seem to figure out. tario on the losing side of several dozen anti free- Why all the caveats? A huge conglomerate of fortrade lawsuits. It’s complicated. Beer gets around eign-owned brewers dominates the sale of beer in this in one very fundamental way – the foreign this province. Our leaders have mandated a change

by Jamie Quai

in the sales model, that opens up the potential for revenue to the LCBO (a Crown corporation), and to large multi-billion dollar grocery chains. While there may be a marginal increase in sales at the LCBO, I don’t see a scenario in which the new model will significantly benefit anyone but huge corporations. Do many people buy their beer in a six pack or less? The Beer Store has a huge brand cache and likely will evolve its brand in a manner that doesn’t change its financials. Last month, I mentioned that consumers are kidding themselves if they think that open alcohol access of any kind through increased availability would lead to a price decrease. Not only was my prediction right, but the changes to the distribution model come with a tax-increase! Albeit small, about a dollar or so per case, but it is still an increase. Margins on beer are incredibly tight. Expect to feel this tax hike in your pocketbook. Most breweries can’t absorb this increase. There may be some potential for restaurants and bars to get their alcohol for a better price than the huge markups they are hit with now. I question, however, whether any savings your local barkeep gets will be passed on in tap prices. We will continue this topic next month. I am hoping to write a column on what really needs to happen to see meaningful change to our evermore cumbersome beverage alcohol system. Jamie Quai is head winemaker at Quai du Vin Estate Winery in Elgin County

Business & Community Business This Month

Official hair and makeup sponsor

Charles & Company of St. Thomas is the official hair and makeup sponsor for a new talk show on Rogers debuting in September: DISH with Donald and Lisa. Lisa is a morning news co-host on Classic Rock Free 98.1.

St. Thomas EDC launches #stthomasproud

In April, St. Thomas Economic Development Corporation (EDC), along with Railway City

Tourism and the Elgin/St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre, launched a campaign aimed to initiate discussion, spur on social media in a positive way and promote what truly makes people proud to call St. Thomas home. “The Facebook page is live, the hashtag is gaining traction and the www.stthomasproud.ca website went live April 9, said EDC general manager Sean Dyke. “The #sthomasproud team is gathering photos, videos and stories and will share them with the world.”

TD to consolidate branches

TD Canada Trust will be merging its two St. Thomas branches, one at Talbot and Elgin, and one in Elgin Mall, in a new location at the SmartCentres retail area often colloquially called “the Walmart plaza.” The closing of the two branches and the opening of the new one are expected to be completed in early 2016. Email Business This Month tips to terry@carrollgroup.ca

JEFF YUREK, MPP

ELGIN-MIDDLESEX-LONDON Here to Help You with:

DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE

Ontario Works Ontario Disability Support Program Driver’s Licences OHIP Cards Any other Provincial matter

Ofﬁce Hours:

Monday-Friday 10am-4:30pm

750 Talbot St., (CASO Station Suite 201) St. Thomas, ON N5P 1E2 519-631-0666 email: jeﬀ.yurekco@pc.ola.org www.jeﬀyurekmpp.com

May, 2015

Join us in our on-going campaign as we continue to stop impaired driving. for more information please call: 519-637-3333 or email: maddstthomas2@hotmail.com

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD Canada) is a charitable, grassroots organization that is committed to stopping impaired driving and supporting the victims of this violent crime.

545 Talbot St., St. Thomas

519-631-1680

www.stthomas.ca

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 30

Dining & Entertainment Tourism

The Road to Culloden comes to Backus-Page House Museum

It’s sprIng! Let’s Open these Windows!

by Katherine Thompson

This May journey back in time to 1745 and witness ‘Bonnie Prince Charlie’ and his loyal Jacobite supporters march across Britain to reclaim the throne for the House of Stuart. This first-ever Scottish living history event at the Backus-Page House Museum will be held on May 16 and 17 and will feature historical re-enactors from across Ontario and the United States. Traditionally held at a location in the United States, the organizers of this re-enactment group were looking for a Canadian location. The Backus-Page House Museum is regularly used for re-enactments and historical demonstrations and links between the War of 1812 re-enactment community, and the Jacobite re-enactors led to the location being selected for this year’s event. The group will re-enact minor skirmishes leading up to the Battle of Culloden in 1746, when Charles Edward Stuart, also known as ‘Bonnie Prince Charlie’ attempted to regain the British throne for the exiled House of Stuart with the support of Scottish Highland clans, Scottish nobles and French noblemen. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with Highland warriors, British redcoats, nobles and common folk alike. They will also have the opportunity to walk through historically accurate Jacobite camps, listen to traditional singers, storytellers and bagpipe music, and witness sword and musket demonstrations. The Backus-Page House Museum will provide food for purchase throughout the two-day event.

and spend some of this screen time!

The Road To Culloden A Two-Day Scottish Living History Weekend Backus-Page House Museum, 29424 Lakeview Line, Wallacetown May 16 & 17, 2015 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Age 13+ $6.00 Age 12 and under FREE (519) 762-3072 www.backuspagehouse.ca

Business & Community Business This Month

For all your transmission needs

caLL

Sharen Symondson (right) from Elgin Business Resource Centre, co-sponsor of the Elgin Federation of Agriculture (EFA) Agri Business Award, presents that prestigious award to Sherwood Lefler, left, and Brian Giles, owners of Briwood Farm Market at the EFA awards open house March 28 at the CASO station in St. Thomas. At the same event, Ken Monteith was inducted into the EFA Hall of Fame. Monteith has been very involved in agriculture throughout his life … as a young man on his farm, as MP for Elgin-Norfolk 1988 -1993 where he held several positions relating to agriculture, in his time in local politics before becoming an MP, and with many fundraising events, including chairman of the 1985 International Plowing Match and on the fundraising committee for the 2014 International Plowing Match. May, 2015

240 Edward Street, St. Thomas

519-633-3134

www.elgintransmission.ca

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 31

A planned gift is a wonderful way to support Serenity House The dedicated board members of Serenity House Hospice are committed to bringing a residential hospice to the citizens of Elgin County. A residential hospice is a home-like environment where people with life-threatening illnesses receive end-of-life care services. “It will provide compassionate care and comfort to people in the last stages of their lives,” says board member Peggy Gillespie. Board president Donna Lunn points out that, “We have been looking for homes to renovate or, ideally, to find a space for building new. Renovating may be the more costly route to go, as we usually would have to add an elevator. Much better to be on one level.” As a great start, Serenity House has already set aside $50,000 in a capital fund. The organization’s mission is “empowering families through life threatening illness,” and its vision statement says, “We will neither hasten nor postpone death, but rather provide comfort from pain and other symptoms to allow people to meet the last stage of life with dignity.” This registered charitable organization is a United Way partner and has just received funding for a children’s grief program working with parents and schools. In the fall of 2003, Serenity House Hospice undertook a Needs and Feasibility Study. It showed that 91% of Elgin respondents agreed that hospice services would be effective in meeting the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of a patient. In 2006, Serenity House opened as a resource centre, and has been offering programs and services for families and individuals in need of support, linkages to other services, and education for caregivers ever since. Pamphlets are provided in six languages for Elgin County. “The Mennonite community strongly support us as well,” Donna Lunn says. A planned gift to Serenity House provides stability and continuity to the organization and may offer significant financial benefits to the donor, including substantial tax deductions. Planned giving options include donating part of your assets, for example, stocks, bonds, or mutual funds or naming Serenity House Hospice Inc. as a beneficiary of your will, retirement funds, RRSP, RRIF, pension or of your life insurance policy. To discuss planned giving options for Serenity House, contact your lawyer, accountant, life insurance agent or financial planner, or Serenity House Hospice, 20 Flora St., Lower Level, St. John’s Anglican Church, St Thomas, ON N5P 2X4. Phone 519-637-3034 or visit serenityhousehospice.ca.

We are passionate about our community, and we know you are too!

The Elgin St. Thomas Community Foundation supports dozens of innovative projects each year with grants large and small to help build vibrant healthy and resilient communities across Elgin County.

We work with donors as community builders, supporting their personal vision and philanthropic goals. We celebrate their giving during their lifetime, and plan together for a legacy that will continue to support the community forever. The power of a legacy fund is compounded over time, helping to build: A stronger community responding to need Resilience in our community for now and forever A GIFT that will be repeated again and again…… Granting in a Community Foundation model is primarily supported from interest income gained from investing the capital of our gifts. To date we have granted over $560,000 to local and regional charities that enrich and inspire our communities. Our donors have helped to establish a pool of funds – now over $1.5M - that builds resilience and a sustainable funding source for the community. It is very simple to establish a legacy gift. Contribute ANY amount to an existing endowment fund (NEW!) For as little as $1,000 establish your own Named Fund within our COMMUNITY FUND umbrella Choose any Canadian charity(s) you wish to support! Establish your own Endowment Fund for $5,000 and direct the granting from YOUR Fund…..forever! We invite you to join our growing list of community builders – like Bud and Melba Marr- and create a legacy fund with our Community Foundation. We provide all the flexibility, involvement and recognition of a private charitable foundation without the ‘back office’ and financial stewardship costs and responsibilities. A very special THANK YOU to all those who have helped us grow,-- our donors, community partners, professional advisors, corporate partners, board members and volunteers. We certainly appreciate your partnership in a shared vision that has built this legacy for Elgin County!

Dedicated to Meeting Your Physical, Emotional and Spirtual Needs Help us support the families of Elgin County!

Community Foundation Bud & Melba MARR FUND

End of Life Care Family and Care Givers Grief and Bereavement Lending Library

Established to support regional and local charities with a focus on health care, community and youth.

*Hospice Palliative Care is often an unknown issue for many Canadians. Eligibility for the whole family begins at diagnosis.

20 Flora St., Lower Level, St. Thomas N5P 2X4 Phone: 519-637-3034 or email: info@serenityhousehospice.ca www.serenityhousehospice.ca May, 2015

Elgin-St. Thomas

Introducing the

SUPPORT SERVICES • • • •

ELGIN THIS MONTH

As an Endowment or Legacy Fund it will continue to grant forever – supporting the people, communities, local and regional charities that are important to them.