November, 2014

Volume 5 No. 3, November 2014

• Katherine Thompson Elgin Archives Page 6 • Elizabeth VanHooren It’s a boy’s lunch Page 8 • Ric Wellwood Remembrances Page 28 and 29 Also Inside: Farm Business Report Pages 20 – 27 Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce Pages 18 and 19

The Harrisons of Mazak Farmsr Cover story: Pages 20 and 21

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Phil James Pre-Owned Vehicle Sales Manager

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Roy Knight Sales Consultant

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Matt Lavers Sales Consultant

Krista Morris Sales Consultant

1012 Talbot Street, St. Thomas 1-877-436-5094 www.stthomasford.com

Cash prices are plus tax. Bi-weekly pmts include tax. Payments calculated on 5.99% rate interest, OAC. Lic. extra.

November, 2014

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2

HOMESTYLE DECORATING

‘Visualizing’ a small dining room

by Renée Carpenter

Small dining rooms can sometimes be a challenge to furnish, as can any small space. Yet the same functions can exist in a small space as in a larger one, and be as comfortable. With a little planning, you may find you have a more efficient and attractive space, as it can force you to focus on the necessities.

In a small area, scale is the single most important factor to be considered. Scaling down the furniture to smaller profiles serves to make the space look better as pieces are in proportion to it. Smaller furniture is meant to provide all the functionality of larger pieces, while scaled appropriately.

Selecting the table shape is the next most important step. Round works well in rooms that are more square in shape. Choose one with a leaf extension if you have the space to extend it. Pedestal bases will allow you to fit extra guests around the dining table without table legs posing a space issue. Narrow rectangular tables can work well in narrow dining rooms. Either way, the goal is to allow enough room to easily move around.

Take up as little visual space as possible with the chairs. To do so, armless chairs are a better choice.

Armless chairs with a slender profile are even better. The recent trend of the parson’s chair has been a simple answer to this challenge.

Another trick in smaller spaces is to make your dining furniture ‘disappear’ with the use of transparent furniture. This can be glass, plexi-glass or acrylic. It leaves you with the perception of lots more visual space. This, though, can be deceiving.

It is still essential to measure for space maneuvering.

Limit your colour palette. Working with lighter or neutral colours will make your room look airier and more spacious. In this case, contrasting or complementary colours should only be used as accents. Is this the rule? No, but it is the safe approach. If you are confident with brighter colours, a bold colour scheme may work well. The trick is to keep it simple and not get too fussy with the remainder of the room. Let the colour do the talking!

Mirrors in small rooms are a decorator’s best friend. Mirrors open up space as nothing else can do when strategically placed – sometimes even more than one.

Although I am usually a fan of ornate window treatments in dining rooms, keep away from the fussiness in a small space. They can be too overpowering and distracting. Simple drapery panels do the job nicely. Add additional privacy or UV protection by layering with blinds.

And last but not least, the scale of the chandelier.

Again, I like fussy, but a too large or fussy chandelier in a small room will take up too much of the visual room. Choose simple lines and a smaller profile to make the space appear larger.

Remember it is all about scale!

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

Healthy Living SELF DISCOVERY

Unemployed and not wanted

by Anouschka Van den Bosch

On a sunny, lazy Sunday morning, my mind isn’t really focusing on anything. I’m just feeling the silence and comfort. Slowly my eyes turn back to my laptop and I scroll through my LinkedIn feeds. I land on an article from Liz Ryan, CEO and founder of Human Workplace. Today her blog is about organizations that screen out applicants who are unemployed. I take a sip of my coffee and read the blog with a personal interest. My contract will finish in a few months, and I could be looking for work. Liz figures if employers want to quickly and randomly screen out applicants she can think of many ways to do that: “They could interview only the candidates whose last names start with K, or screen out everyone whose application arrives on Monday or Wednesday.”

That line made me chuckle and I could not agree more. As a human resource professional, I find it hard to believe that organizations bypass applicants who appear to be in transition. Unfortunately it happens.

What logical reason could there be to not hire

an applicant that is currently not working? To not even look at resumes from applicants that appear to be out of work is potentially cutting you off from qualified, skilled and loyal employees.

I know many years ago I would scrutinize a resume that would have those “gaps” or the last job on the resume was over 6 months ago. However, in the last few years, it is clear that there are many reasons why someone is not working while looking for new employment opportunities. Instead of worrying about why applicants would be unemployed, look further in the resume and notice if they list any educational upgrades. Are they volunteering within their professional networking groups? Are they members of associations related to their profession? These can all be indicators that the applicant is still active and staying current within their profession.

As I look toward the end of my contract, I will contact my HR colleagues offering myself for any projects they have no time to complete and would love assistance with. It will help keep me in the HR loop and potentially I’ll learn something new

Elgin This Month Manager Linda Axelson Section Editor Business Beat – Bob Hammersley Regional Sales Manager Nelson Parreira

that I could add to my skill set. As employers and recruiters, we have an obligation to find the right fit for the position and the candidate. Judging a resume solely on the basis of the candidate being out of work is a disservice to your organization and the candidate.

On the flip side, unemployed candidates need to stay current in our professions. Volunteer a few hours a month with an organization related to your profession. Or pick up a workshop, webinar or ‘lunch and learn’ that relates to your profession.

Many are free.

Not having another job to go to at the end of my contract could be discouraging, but having a plan in place takes away the heeby jeebies on this Sunday morning in the sun.

Graphic Design / Production Metroland Media Group Sales Representative Greg Minnema

Anouschka Van den Bosch is a Human Resources Professional and Certified Life and Career Coach.

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 November, 2014

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INNES AS I SEE IT

Get acquainted with your inner curmudgeon

by Jim Innes

There is always joy when the sun shines warmly on our backs but the dullness of a season can bring gloom into our relationships. This seasonal gloom is such a common occurrence that the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) recognizes severe cases as a malady, calling it Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).

I suspect that most of us know ourselves well enough that we can appreciate the effects of weather on our moods. But not so many of us make a conscious effort to compensate for the negative effects of said weather. Such effects include decreased feelings of well-being, decreased energy, changing sleep patterns and changing eating patterns. Sometimes it is noted by our withdrawal from family and friends, a lack of focus, a knowing sense of despair, sadness, anxiety, or an increased desire for carbs and/or a decreased sex drive.

About a tenth of the population is diagnosed with SAD, and almost all of us are to some

...shortening days are the main trigger for SAD...

lesser degree affected similarly by changing weather. So, at this time of year, as we ready ourselves for the often-dull, cold months of winter, we might consider preparing ourselves for the emotional swing.

And it seems to me, that the older we get, and the smaller our worlds become, this task becomes of even greater importance.

It seems that the shortening days are the main trigger for SAD. The decreased sunlight disrupts our body’s internal clock.

Consequently, according to several scientists, SAD can look like a kind of “hibernation”.

Those severely affected with SAD will likely require counselling and/or medications. And it will be important to begin by consulting one’s doctor. For the majority of us, compensating for seasonal weather change may be much simpler: for example, making sure that we don’t feel cloistered by joining fellowship groups, scheduling exercise and time outside so we’re breathing fresh air and getting direct sunlight. I have personally found it helpful to make a seasonal trip to the clothing store and purchase the needed

wear so that getting outside, in more extreme weather, is easier and more desirable.

Other recommendations (from groups like CMHA) are massage, mindfulness meditations, therapeutic touch, aromatherapy, tai chi, and yoga.

Light therapy has also been found effective in approximately 70 percent of all diagnosed cases of SAD. This is baNovember, 2014

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sically a self-imposed exposure to bright light, using approved light therapy units for between 15 to 30 minutes. Sometimes light therapy and melatonin are used together. Melatonin is a hormone found in animals and plants, and available in tablet form as a nutritional supplement in your local pharmacy and health food store. It is important to consult your doctor before using any such product as melatonin.

Dr. Matthew Rudorfer, at the National Institute of Health, states that though SAD will go away on its own, it could take five months or more. As I see it, we need to take seriously the effects of seasonal changes on our mood and motivation. SAD, in its greater and lesser forms, has the potential to negatively impact our ability to nurture and protect those we love and care for. Fortunately, Rudorfer promises that SAD is “generally quite treatable and the treatment options keep increasing and improving.” A little mindfulness, and a few seasonal lifestyle adjustments, will go a long way toward taming the curmudgeon in you.

Jim Innes is a clinically trained therapist and a priest at St. John’s Anglican Church 4

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY Leadership

Purpose and process: Discover and live your ‘why’

by Cheryl Lester

Purpose, vision, mission — three words that have excited, confused, frustrated, frightened and challenged for-profit and not-for-profit leaders for years. Having a clear understanding of the ‘why’ behind your existence as a business or organization is an important factor of effectiveness.

Knowing your individual ‘why’ is also important — perhaps even more so if you are a leader or business owner.

Elizabeth MacKenzie—a business and marketing coach—posted a blog entitled, Are You Getting Your Purpose and Process Mixed Up? In it she suggests that we have been going at the ‘purpose’ exercise all wrong, and that we are looking at it too narrowly. MacKenzie claims that, “…The reason for all this confusion and angst (around purpose) is that we're getting our purpose and our process confused.”

So what is the difference? MacKenzie defines purpose as being the ‘change you want to effect in the world’ claiming that, “…it's expansive enough that it can be reinterpreted and reimagined at different stages of your life. But it's so, so connected and engrained in your being that once you've tuned into its siren song, it will always be your guiding light.”

About processes, MacKenzie says,

P

“…processes are the things you do to follow through on your purpose. The things you do to bring it to life. There are many, many different processes you can use to bring your purpose into form. And that's where we get tripped up. We think that being a life coach or a doctor is our purpose, but it's not. That's simply the way we're fulfilling our purpose.

Both a doctor and a life coach could have the same purpose: to heal others and help them on their journey. Or they could have very different purposes: to inspire others to live their dream life (coach) and to educate others about their physical beings (doctor). The key takeaway is that each of these professions is just one path to the overall end goal. Once you discover your greater vision, the options for how you bring this purpose to fruition are endless.”

Back to purpose. So, what difference do you (really) want to make in the world? What is that ongoing underlying drive or calling that you’re noticed — sometimes whispering, sometimes shouting? What is the distinctive attitude or energy that is inherently part of your ‘why’? What might an objective, long-term observer identify as being the unique difference you have made, are making, and will have the opportunity to make

it’s time to start your

OWN BUSINESS

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You must be EI eligible or a recent recipient of EI benefits.

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For more details on how to access this opportunity call Cindy Hertwig at:

Cheryl Lester, Eagle Tree Leadership, is an international leadership coach known for her ability to help people improve their performance and effectiveness.

NEED A BUSINESS LOAN? Elgin Business Resource Centre provides business loans up to $250,000 and we can also meet those small business needs with loans for $5,000 or less.

We specialize in loans for women, youth and new business start-ups.

519-633-7597 ext. 335 Info Sessions-November 18 & December 16 @ 9 am at 300 South Edgeware Rd. New SEB Business Start-ups for Elgin include:

• Janet Dunlop - Dunlop Bookkeeping Services • Brad McIntee - Convert Construction • Michele Steckler - The Travelling Pantry

November, 2014

in the future?

Once you get clear about the difference between purpose and process, you will experience new levels of clarity, creativity, effectiveness and synergy.

Life, work and relationship decisions will become easier when you understand how to use your unique combination of skills, intelligence, gifts, and experience.

So, to put it into action: • Find some time and space to reflect on your purpose. Go beneath the surface. Put it into a statement.

• Create a list of different processes that appeal to you. Choose one or more that work for you now. Keep the list — you can use it to choose different processes in the years to come.

• Review your purpose statement regularly to inspire and energize your processes.

Your ‘why’ is unique. Discover it. Live it. Fully.

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Call Glenn Thorel for information on our loans programs:

519-633-7597 ext. 333

5

LIFESTYLE Our Heritage

The Elgin County Archives – Preserving Elgin’s collective memory

by Katherine Thompson

The Elgin County Archives is a climate-controlled facility, located on the lower level of the Elgin County Administration Building, tasked with preserving the collective memory of the community. Through collection, cataloguing, digitization and exhibition, the Archives makes historical documents, maps and photographs publicly accessible.

The effort to establish an archival system for the County of Elgin began in the 1980s when citizens

Harvest time at the Axford family peach orchard, West River Road, Southwold Township, ca. 1938.

Scott Studio Collection, Elgin County Archives.

raised their concerns about the lack of a facility to preserve and provide access to important historical documents. In 1987, Heritage Elgin – St. Thomas was formed with members from a broad range of local heritage organizations. Their mission was to lobby for the creation of an Elgin County Archives. Fiscal restraints during the 1990s put plans on hold; however, municipal amalgamations in 1998 brought the issue to the forefront once more. County Council recognized that the need to preserve and make available municipal records was paramount.

An archivist was hired in 2001 and the 3,000 square foot facility had its grand opening on November 8, 2002.

In the twelve years since its opening, the Archives has acquired, preserved and made accessible the records of the County of

Thank You to all of our Sponsors and Donators who supported our Bail or Jail Event on October 16, 17 at Geerlinks Home Hardware and Thank you to our “Detainees”!

• STPS Police Chief Darryl Pinnell • Aylmer Police Chief Andre Reymer • Mayor Heather Jackson • Gary Clarke • Todd Noble

• Kristy Carigan • Sarah Groeneweg • Terry Berger • John Baines • Joanne Redman • Stacey Wright • Kevin Jackson • Rob Mise • Mark Cosens

• Kathy Cook • Dave Gifford • Terra Peters • Cassidy Lawrence • Steve Kelly • Barb Kelly • Deputy Fire Chief Ray Omerod

Stalter Gully Bridge, Nova Scotia Line, Malahide Township, under construction, ca. 1922. Wilfred Smith Collection, Elgin County Archives.

ous collections including photographs from Scott Studio, Women’s Institute “Tweedsmuir Histories” and Alma College records.

The Archives website provides access to various digitization projects and is home to a number of detailed virtual exhibits most notably a recently added comprehensive History of the Elgin County Courthouse.

For those looking to find an interesting gift or personal memento, the First contingent of Elgin County First World War Archives offers reproducvolunteers marching on Talbot Street, St. Thomas, tions of any photograph August 22, 1914. Ian D. Cameron Collection, in its large collection. To Elgin County Archives. view highlights from the Elgin and its municipal collection visit the Elgin County Archives’ Flickr government partners, account at flickr.com/photos/elgincountyaras well as a vast array of chives/. community records that For more information on conducting research, provide insight into the donating records, or viewing the wealth of infordaily lives of Elgin resi- mation in the Elgin County Archives collection dents during different visit elgincounty.ca/archives or call (519) 631historical eras.

1460 ext. 154.

Search the online database at inmagic.

Katherine Thompson is Marketing & e l g i n - c o u n t y. o n . c a / Communications ask/ to explore one of Coordinator with the Archives’ numerThe County of Elgin

Thank You to our judges: Ken Verrell, Grant Hughson and Marg Goulding

Join Us for the Spring Rock & Bowl!

Large selection of Quality Pre-Owned Vehicles Come in and choose one today or visit our website

www.bridgeviewstthomas.ca

1-800-222-TIPS [8477]

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We Couldn’t do it without the support of the Community November, 2014

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1207 Talbot St., St. Thomas 519-633-0240 6

Investing, why so many lose in a winning game

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY Financial Planning

by Ellen Luft, Certified Financial Planner®

Despite the long term performance of stocks (equities) compared to other investment options, many stock and mutual fund investors manage to lose money. Why? Stocks generally provide positive returns over most periods of at least 10 years, and they also tend to outperform other investment categories.

When share prices increase in value and the market is going up (bull market), they attract attention. The longer and more positive a bull market, the more attention is drawn to it and the more money investors are willing to put into equities. Generally the opposite is also true: when the market is going down, investors tend to stop investing. Not only do they stop investing but they also tend to want to sell during periods of falling values.

Very few if any stocks or stock funds manage to perform in the top half of their category continuously for a ten year time period. So it can be assumed that even the best performing stock funds have suffered at least one poor year in the past ten, probably leading to a slowdown of investment into the fund or more often than not, redemptions.

Peter Lynch, a legendary mutual fund manager advised, “If you are happy with the management of the funds in your portfolio, add new money to the worst short-term performers.”

The same advice also applies to stocks. If you’re confident in a stock’s fundamentals, use periods of share price weakness as a buying opportunity. Often this price weakness occurs when a company has had some short term changes to its market conditions; but if, in the long term the prospects for the company look positive, then it’s time to buy on weakness.

You do need to remember that investing is a long term process, and

you can cope with market volatility much better when you know that you have addressed all your immediate cash needs.

Investing is an activity that requires decisions and making decisions means taking risk. Taking risk can lead to fear and no action at all. Working with an Investment Advisor to build an investment portfolio that meets your specific needs, reduces the risk and reduces the likelihood of losing in what is really a winning game.

This article was prepared solely by Ellen Luft who is a registered representative of HollisWealthTM (a division of Scotia Capital Inc., a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada). The views and opinions, including any recommendations, expressed in this article are those of Ellen Luft only and not those of HollisWealth. TM Trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia, used under license.

November, 2014

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LIFESTYLE ThaT’s Life

Friday solution to the dreaded lunchbox let-down

by Elizabeth VanHooren

upon arrival home, really, really, makes this mom unhappy.

I’ve tried to make the boys lunch fun and healthy.

I’ve compared my skills to other moms on-line through Pinterest. These virtual moms seem to have more imagination, more time and generally more patience than I can muster at seven o’clock at night. They seem to have time to cut the bologna into cute animal shapes, and form crackers, cheese and grapes into a smile in one neat little container. I’m lucky if my boys bring all their reusable containers home.

“It’s in my desk, Mom. I’ll bring it home tomorrow.”

I will admit that I have given into the occasional peer pressure in the grocery aisles. My sons often spot a store-bought treat that “So and So” at school brings in his lunch. “So and So’s Mom” is the best – she lets “So and So” have Fruit Rollups. And, I’m just not strong enough … I buy Fruit by the Roll – instead of letting the fruit roll in their lunch pails and everyone is happier.

Unfortunately, my husband likes Fruit Roll-ups just as much as the kids. He will raid my supply at night – by mid week I’ve got nothing left in my bag of lunchbox tricks.

I’m building up to a huge thank you to the ingenious mom, PTA, or school “they have time to cut the board who invented Hot Lunch Friday. bologna into cute animal shapes” Every month, I receive a yellow piece of paper listing hot meal options. You choose, cut a cheque and your kids get It took us until Thanks- a hot meal – prepared by someone else – every giving to convince my Friday.

It’s like a lunch free day. That yellow piece of youngest son that there is a garbage container in paper is gold to me – paperwork that I actually his kindergarten class, love to fill out. Glorious options like pizza, chickand it would make me en fingers, macaroni and cheese. Check! Check! very happy if he would Check!

Yes, every Thursday night I know I’m not the use it. Until then, anything he didn’t like, only mom who does a little happy dance for Hot didn’t finish or thought Lunch Friday.

(Just please don’t bring the leftovers home.) he would finish at supper has come back home with him in his Elizabeth VanHooren is lunchbox. It’s a sticky, General Manager smelly mess that oozes of Kettle Creek into zippers and, if not Conservation Authority addressed immediately

lunch tomorrow?” He replied with a broad smile, “Sure Mom, because you like it when I throw them in the garbage!”

Ah yes, lunchbox letdown is a two-way street in my house. My kids occasionally dislike what I’ve packed for lunch almost as much as I loathe deciding what to pack.

MAINTENANCE • TIRES • BRAKES • OIL & FILTER • BATTERIES • ALIGNMENT (It’s akin to the dreaded, “What’s for supper?”)

I admit that an apple NOW rolling around loose in OPEN a lunch pail is probably not that appetizing. But I’m pretty sure it looks and smells better at lunch time than when it returns from school with a couple of bites out of it, brown and mixed up with a half eaten sandwich and an almost Chris, Justin, Lyndon, empty yogurt container.

Faced with two empty lunchboxes, I asked my youngest son, “Would you like an apple in your

Derrick and Stacy Invite you to visit our brand new, state of the art facility.

1-877-436-5094

THANK YOU and CONGRATULATIONS to ALL THE STAFF for making this award possible.

Our staff is what makes Wendy’s St. Thomas outstanding in every way.

The Marketer of the Y Year Diamond Award is given in recognition of the local store marketing, community suppor support and support for the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. That combined with sales performance above the DMA average made St. Thomas a stand out for the first Canadian Diamond Award for Marketer of the Year!

St. Thomas and Elgin, Thank You for your Support!

November, 2014

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• November 2014 •

All Candidates

All Candidates Event

St. Thomas aldermanic candidate Rose Gibson discusses her platform at the Chamber’s All Candidates Event for St. Thomas, Southwold and Central Elgin at St. Anne’s Centre Oct. 21.

Networking at Business Sample Show H. D. Painting’s Sabrina Hoogenboom (left) visits with Pat Maxwell from Maxwell’s Foto Source. Maxwell’s later won the Best Appearance booth prize sponsored by The Weekly News and the Chamber at the Oct. 22 Business Sample Show at St. Anne’s Centre.

Jennings Furniture hosts and sponsors our November event.

Date: Wednesday November 12

Time: Doors open at 5:00 p.m., Draws & remarks at 6:15 Site & Sponsor: Jennings Furniture, 432 Talbot Street, St. Thomas

Please note: This will be a “furniture friendly” event with clear beverages only.

Sorry, no colas, red wines or dark beers will be served.

Major service expansion by Ascent St. Thomas has a new business advantage that provides ultra highspeed fibre optic and wireless internet services at very competitive prices, and can pay a dividend to every local taxpayer.

Ascent, wholly-owned by the City of St. Thomas, has announced the expansion of their ultra-high speed fibre optic and wireless network in St. Thomas. Ascent’s fibre network delivers broadband speeds up to 1 gigabit to businesses in St. Thomas; 100 to 200 times faster than speeds currently available. Fibre optic services are, or will soon be, available to every industrial and commercial property in St. Thomas.

Gorman-Rupp Canada has been an Ascent fibre customer for 3 years. Technical Services Coordinator Maureen Barendregt has been very happy with the service, adding “Ascent has been Gorman-Rupp Canada’s internet service provider for the past three years and during that time, has supplied exceptional service and reliability. Having 24/7 internet access is paramount to our day to day operations and we, at Gorman-Rupp, are pleased with the fiber optic services provided by Ascent.”

The addition of wireless services enhances the fibre solution by providing high speed wireless coverage to St. Thomas and surrounding area, including into parts of south London. Via a new 170-foot radio tower, Ascent will deliver high speed wireless services to businesses at speeds up to 20 megabits per second, or for specific cases, up to 1 gigabit per second.

Mayor Heather Jackson states, “St. Thomas is a community with vision

Business Beat Table of Contents Business on Ed. ......... Page 10 Warren’s back! .......... Page 11 Unpaid leaves ........... Page 12 Prov. pensions? ......... Page 13 Prevent fires .............. Page 14 Ireland anyone?......... Page 15 Free Wi-fi .................. Page 16 November, 2014

and a bright future.

The expansion of offerings by Ascent to St. Thomas businesses is exciting. It is a demonstration of Ascent leveraging their world class expertise in technology and communications to give our community a competitive global advantage. It is a clear statement that St. Thomas is ready and open for business.”

Sean Dyke, Economic Development Manager with St. Thomas EDC comments, "Connectivity is a key component of a City's infrastructure. The work being completed by Ascent will help St. Thomas companies remain productive and competitive while also serving as a marketing tool as we work to attract new business and industry to the City."

Ascent officially launched these exciting services for business with a display and demonstration at the St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce’s Business Sample Show October 22.

Bob Hammersley, Chamber CEO, adds, “Ascent’s expansion to offer more local technology and support for business is a definite plus for us.

Ascent supplies the St. Thomas & District Chamber office with Inter-

net services and IT support. We’re very happy customers, and excited to get local service that is second to none. We’re happy we can buy and save with a local supplier that is an expert in technology, and we’re proud to recommend their services and personnel to all businesses, services and industries in our community.”

For additional information, contact Ascent directly. Sales & marketing Director Jeff Milcz can be reached at 519-631-4211 Ext 4287 or email jmilcz@ascent.ca Sales Executive Randy Franks welcomes calls at 519-631-4211 Ext 4288 or email rfranks@ascent.ca

Send Holiday wishes to your Business friends in our annual Holiday edition To take advantage of excellent advertising opportunities give me a call at 519-633-1640 (ext. 22) Greg Minnema, Advertising Sales

or email me at gregthismonth@theweeklynews.ca December Edition Advertising Deadline is November 12th

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Viewpoint Events and News of Interest to our Members

The voice of business on education Our colleagues at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Ottawa have produced a new report that we’re encouraging our Members to share as widely as possible.

It’s about the skills gap and the numerous components within. It’s about youth, the unemployed, the under-employed and education, and it’s called “A Battle We Can’t Afford To Lose: Getting Canadians from Education to Employment.”

Across the country, there is a growing understanding that closing the skills gap means better aligning our education and training systems to our labour market needs.

For Canadian youth, it is essential the education they get is relevant to the job market they will enter. First, they need to know where the jobs will be. Second, they need to know what those jobs will be so they can plan their education and training accordingly. Third, they need education that is not just job training but equips them to be adaptable.

Our report recognizes that employers do not always provide clear and strong signals to youth.

That needs to change, and our report explores how to improve the situation.

At every step of the discussion on youth, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has been engaged with government and stakeholders. With Chamber Members in both the employer and educator communities, we bring a demand-meets-supply

perspective to the need for better labour market information and improving connections between business and post-secondary education.

Our report investigates the state of three key factors affecting young Canadians’ entry into the labour market: labour market information, career decision-making, and work-integrated lea rning.

We also recommend that government, education providers and businesses work together much more closely to mitigate skills mismatching and to ensure there is a successful transition from education to employment.

On the local side, the St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce wants our Members to know that skills and education continue to be a primary focus for us. In many re-

spects, our work in this area might not be openly visible; however it is definitely significant. Our interest and devotion to projects involving statistics, market data, and labour market information happens year ’round. For example, we have staff and volunteers actively working with the Elgin Middlesex Oxford Workforce Planning and Development Board,

Fanshawe College, Employment Services Elgin, and with training and start-up initiatives offered through the Elgin Business Resource Centre, the Innovation Centre for Entrepreneurs, and the Small Business Enterprise Centre. It’s also not unusual for the Chamber to been seen speaking with local high school classes and groups and working with agencies such as Junior Achievement.

The latest research tabled in this new national Canadian Chamber report is relevant in our local market and across Canada. We welcome your comments and observations and pledge our assistance to any Member wishing to actively explore options aimed at improving the situation and growing opportunities.

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 2014 Board of Directors Chair: Laura Woermke St. Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre Vice-Chair: Ross Fair Fanshawe College Vice-Chair: Dan Kelly Dowler-Karn Ltd. Treasurer: Mark Lassam CPA, CA Lassam & Co. Past Chair: Jason White Steelway Building Systems Director: Sean Dyke

St. Thomas Economic Development Corp.

Director: Monty Fordham Fordham Brightling & Associates Lawyers Director: Brian Helmer Reith & Associates Insurance & Financial Director: Jeff Kohler City of St. Thomas Director: Phil Mauer Phil Mauer & Associates Inc. Director: Ginette Minor Alexelle Slipcovers & Décor Director: Rob Mise myFM 94.1 Director: Allan Weatherall Elgin Military Museum – Project Ojibwa

10

Chamber News Events and News of Interest to our Members

Welcoming Warren!

The St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome Warren Allen to the Chamber staff as our new Member Services Representative. Warren joined the Chamber office team on October 6 and will be responsible for our external Member Services including membership sales & service and production/delivery of Chamber events involving sponsors and participation by Members and the community at large.

Born and raised in Kingston, Warren moved to St. Thomas in 1987 to work in local media as an on-air radio personality. In 2002, he accepted a position with Royal Caribbean Cruise Line, based in Miami, Florida.

In 10 years with the cruise line he rose to become a Cruise Director, an on-ship management position with responsibilities for the on-board entertainment and all related personnel and equipment.

His return to St. Thomas to join the Chamber brings us literally a “world” of experience in customer service, sales and communication services gained while he worked in and from some of the most fascinating places on the globe including the Caribbean, Alaska and the west coast, Europe and Hawaii.

Warren’s return also provides an opportunity to renew his hands-on interests in community service. His previous years here saw him very involved with the community including Big Brothers/Big Sisters of St Thomas-Elgin, Kinsmen Club of St Thomas, and hosting many local community and business events.

Warren’s experience and interests will further the Chamber’s Mission as “the voice of the business community” and help us continue to work toward ensuring economic success in St. Thomas and the surrounding district.

Warren will be reaching out to all Member businesses, organizations and representatives to personally introduce himself and update you with the latest information and communication from the St Thomas and District Chamber of Commerce. He can be reached daily at the Chamber offices via email: warren @stthomaschamber.on.ca or by telephone at 519-631-1981 Extension 526.

Warren Allen, the Chamber’s new Member Services Representative, holds two tickets for our annual St. Thomas Uncorked Wine & Art Appreciation event. Only 120 tickets were available as sales for the January 24 event opened on October 15.

198 9

A BIG night with BIG wines

Winter’s Coming!

Our 3rd annual “St. Thomas Uncorked” event is coming in January and tickets are on sale now from the Chamber office. $40 per person + HST includes admission, wine & food samples, and a great night out. The first two edition of Uncorked were complete sell-outs and we’re aiming high to ensure the 2015 event meets or exceeds all expectations.

The date is Saturday January 24, 7:00 p.m. to 10 p.m., at the St. Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre at 301 Talbot Street. Thanks to the Real Canadian Superstore, everyone attending will enjoy samplings of fruit, cheeses and more – all set to compliment sampling of up to 20 wines from local, regional, national and international wineries.

Quai du Vin’s resident sommelier, Jamie Quai, will return as our ‘tour guide’ and lead everyone attending on a blind taste adventure, followed by “reveals” or breaks in the program when Jamie takes the wrappers off the unmarked bottles and explains the source, history and qualities of each wine. As has been our custom to “Buy Local”, we will feature only wines that can be purchased locally at source or locally in St. Thomas / Elgin liquor board stores.

Uncorked tickets are always popular Christmas gifts and we fully expect to be sold-out before the end of December. A call to the Chamber to place your order will now will avoid disappointment. Tickets for Uncorked are available only to Chamber Members.

November, 2014

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11

Legal Business Events and News of Interest to our Members

Ontario expands unpaid leaves of absence

by Monty Fordham Ontario employers will have marked October 29, 2014 on their calendar, or should have, since on that date some of the most significant changes to the Employment Standards Act Monty Fordham (ESA) in recent times will have come into force. Bill 21, entitled the Employment Standards Amendment Act (Leaves to Help Families), 2013, received royal assent in April of this year. The extent of the impact upon businesses, particularly small ones, is uncertain but one cannot help but think that, in the post- recession hangover, it won’t be positive.

Previously, under the ESA, employees were entitled to what was known as “Family Medical Leave” where family member suffered from a serious medical condition with a significant risk of death occurring within 26 weeks. As well, employees could qualify for “personal emergency leave.” It should be emphasized that the leaves of absence under discussion here are “unpaid” leaves, insofar as the employer is concerned.

Under the amendments, employees are entitled to unpaid leaves of absence in three circumstances: Family Care-giver Leave, Critically Ill Child Care Leave, and Crime-related Child Death and Disappearance leave. The amended Act sets out

the required paperwork to be provided by the employee under each category.

With respect to Family Care-giver leave, where employees are needed to provide care to a family member with a serious medical condition, including ones without significant risk of death within 26 weeks, are now entitled to up to 8 weeks of unpaid leave per calendar year. The following are “family members”: -a parent, step-parent or foster parent of the employee or the employee’s spouse -a child, step-child or foster child of the employee or the employee’s spouse -a grand-parent, step-grandparent, grandchild or step-grandchild of the employee or the employee’s spouse -the spouse of a child of the employee -the employee’s brother or sister -a relative of the employee who is dependent on the employee for care or assistance -any individual prescribed as a family member Regarding Critically Ill Child Care leave, employees may qualify for up to 37 weeks of unpaid leave. “Critically Ill Child” is defined as a child “whose baseline state of health has significantly changed and whose life is at risk as a result of an illness or in“Candlelight Preview” jury.” “Child” is defined Friday, November 14th, 6pm-9pm as “child, step-child, foster child or child who is under legal guardianship Saturday & Sunday and who is under 18 November 15th & November 16th years of age.”

As for Crime-Related Child Death and Disappearance leave, the definition of “child” is the same as in the previous

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leave category, and, in the case of disappearance can be up to 52 weeks, and in the case of death, up to 104. The disappearance or death must be as a result of a crime as defined in the Criminal Code and not have been committed by the employee.

The second and third categories would seem to provide a necessary and compassionate response to very unexpected, catastrophic events in the life of an employee. I don’t think any employer (especially a small one) would take issue with the new provisions. However, it’s that first one that troubles me.

At a time when Ontario businesses are said to be lagging in productivity, are dealing with loss of market share and generally doing their best to stay afloat, the last thing they need is absent employees, particularly for protracted periods of time.

We shall likely see the impact of these amendments in the workplace within a year or so.

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

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Viewpoint Events and News of Interest to our Members

Queen’s Park responds to Chamber’s pension concerns Members of the Chamber Network participated in an event we called Pension Day of Advocacy October 8. Knowing that decision makers listen when we speak with one voice, Chambers across the province, representing businesses of every size from every sector, delivered concerns we have previously shared via our website and in our weekly Green Mail newsletter.

Our message about the Ontario Retirement Pension Plan (ORPP) is resonating at Queen's Park.

The Minister responsible for the implementing the plan, Mitzie Hunter, has shown an eagerness to engage with the Chamber Network on this file.

Minister Hunter also participated in a special Network Teleconference during which we had an opportunity to deliver questions and get answers.

Below are some of the answers we received from the Minister during that teleconference.

Our goal is to continue a productive and constructive engagement with Minister Hunter and the government so that the concerns of our Members are known and understood. We are also inviting the Minister to participate in a series of roundtables in the months ahead at locations around the province.

Q: Instead of creating its own pension plan, why can’t the province work with the federal government to enhance the Canada Pension Plan (CPP)? This would avoid administrative duplication and is a preferred option for businesses, when compared to the Ontario Retirement Pension Plan.

A: Enhancing the CPP remains the preferred option for the Government of Ontario. Despite ours and other provincial government’s best efforts, the federal government decided to shut down consideration of a modest enhancement to the Canada Pension Plan. Their decision is disappointing, given the growing retirement income challenge faced by Canadians and Ontarians. As such, we are moving forward with a new mandatory provincial pension plan — the Ontario Retirement Pension Plan (ORPP) — that would be cost‐effective, responsible, and designed to meet the needs of a 21st century workforce. The ORPP would expand pension coverage initially to more than three million working Ontarians who currently rely on the CPP, OAS, and their own savings for retirement income.

It would build on the key features of the CPP, and

could later be integrated with the CPP should negotiations on an enhancement be successful in the future. We are eager to consult with businesses and employees on how best to move forward with this plan.

Q: Has the province done any kind of economic forecast as to the financial effect that the ORPP will have on Ontario's business community?

A: We have more work to do on that front and it is part of our Ministry’s workplan. In April, David Dodge released a report on the need for pension enhancement and its impact on the economy. In that report, Dodge underscores that Canadian workers are far from saving enough to maintain a satisfactory standard of living. This creates pressure on our economy in a number of different ways, not the least of which is the negative impact this will continue to have on seniors’ purchasing power. Dodge’s report also found that any short term costs would be offset by positive long-term effects. Put simply, a higher savings rate today would mean greater income and consumption in the future.

Q: How will the government treat businesses that cannot afford to match mandatory contributions under the ORPP (specifically, small businesses)? Will there be exemptions for small businesses?

A: We need to be sensitive to the impact that any pension reforms would have on small businesses.

That’s why we’ve designed the ORPP to be phased in gradually. Our timing is deliberate: the Ontario Retirement Pension Plan would be introduced in 2017, coinciding with expected reductions in Employment Insurance premiums for employers and employees. Enrolment of employers and employees ca into the ORPP would ocn. i cur in stages, beginning lg se b with the largest employjo ers. Contribution rates w. w would be phased in over w two years.

Q: The government has pledged to exempt

those employees already participating in a comparable workplace pension plan from enrolling in the ORPP. What types of workplace pension plans will be considered “comparable” to the ORPP? What about Pooled Registered Pension Plans (PRPPs), will they be considered a “comparable plan”?

A: This is an area that we are actively considering and our technical advisory group, comprised of leading pension experts, is looking closely at the notion of comparable plans. This is a significant policy question, and one for which we will seek business’ input. In addition to the ORPP, voluntary savings mechanisms like PRPPs will play a big part in shoring up the retirement system. We have committed to introducing a framework for PRPPs. Q: How will the ORPP impact the self-employed? Self-employed individuals often face a greater degree of income variability. While savings vehicles like the PRPP provide flexibility in terms of employer contributions, it is not clear that the ORPP would do the same.

A: We recognize the unique status of self-employed individuals. Self-employed individuals will be exempt from the ORPP. However, the government will consult to make sure we develop solutions that allow self-employed individuals to achieve a secure retirement future.

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Pro Text Events and News of Interest to our Members

Fire prevention – Working smoke alarms

by Jennifer Boone

Would you ever drive down the road without your seatbelt? Your answer is probably no!

Smoke alarms are for your home as seatbelts are for your car. They are there to help protect you and your family. When you hear the smoke alarm go off, you may only have seconds to safely escape from your home. That is why early detection of fire is absolutely vital.

Only working smoke alarms in your home provide you with the precious seconds that you and your family need to safely escape. Most of us may not realize that we could be breaking the law, and liable for a $235 fine, because we are not following the new Fire Code amendment that was effective March 1, 2006. This amendment made it law for all Ontario homes to have working smoke alarms on every storey of the home and outside all sleeping areas.

Despite publicity over the eight years since the law changed, statistics here and across Ontario point to a problem that isn’t going away.

It was hoped that there would have been a reduction of the number of preventable fire-related injuries and fatalities, but the statistics are still showing that, on average, fire kills eight people each week in Canada with residential fires accounting for 73 percent of these fatalities. Of the 73 percent, 66 percent of them occur in a

home without a working smoke alarm. Reading this statistic you can see how vital it is to have a working smoke alarm in your home. It could be the difference between life versus death.

The St. Thomas Fire Department will conduct home safety audits

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to help homeowners ensure their property is fire safe. A fire crew will stop by your home and examine the interior, check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, as well as ensure a good visual address. As well, they will check for proper storage of flammable liquids, use of extension cords as permanent wiring and household wiring. For more information, or to set up an appointment for a fire safety inspection, you can call the office at St. Thomas’ main fire hall at 519-631-0210.

There are many things that you are able to do on your own also to ensure that you don’t get a fine and to make sure

For complete details, contact the Chamber

115 - 300 South Edgeware Road, St. Thomas Phone: 519-631-1981 Fax: 519-631-0466 Email: mail@stthomaschamber.on.ca www.stthomaschamber.on.ca

November, 2014

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you and your family have those few precious seconds to safely escape your home. Here are some suggestions: • Test your smoke alarms once a month and change the batteries two times a year. It is suggested that you change the batteries when you put your clocks forward in the spring and back in the fall.

• Never remove the batteries from the smoke alarm. If nuisance alarms are a problem, try moving the alarm to another location or purchase an alarm with a hush feature that temporarily silences the alarm.

• Replace smoke alarms every ten years. Some models last as little as five years though so regular testing will help determine if the alarm needs to be replaced sooner than the 10 years.

• Make sure everyone in the household knows what to do if the smoke alarm goes off.

• Develop a home fire escape plan and practice it with the entire household.

If you were ever in the horrible situation where the use of a smoke alarm was necessary, the extra time it gives you and your family to escape to safety will be miraculous. As with fire every second counts!

This column appears regularly in Business Beat and has been submitted by Jennifer Boone, RIB (Ont),CRM, a Broker/Advisor with Reith & Associates Insurance and Financial Services Limited, 462 Talbot Street, St. Thomas. Questions and comments on this column are welcomed by the writer at 519-631-3862 or via e-mail: info@ reithandassociates.com 14

Chamber News Events and News of Interest to our Members

Ireland in the spring?

The St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the next trip/tour offer for our Members … a trip to southern Ireland departing Toronto’s Pearson International Airport on Wednesday May 13 for a 9 day tour returning May 21 The Strathroy & District Chamber will again be our partner in delivering this opportunity for our Members. As with our previous trips to China over the last couple of years, we welcome Members to join our group for business or pleasure.

Our tour price has a lot of inclusions like return air, hotels (and a castle), tours and tour guides, entrance fees to attractions, a cruise, a ferry ride, air-

conditioned ground transportation, 7 full breakfast and 3 dinners including a Medieval Banquet at Bunratty Castle. $2945 per person for Chamber Members (including family, travel companions, retirees, etc.) or $3145 for future Members.

Full itineraries and other documents explaining this tour are available now from the Chamber office or from our tour travel agent, Elgin Travel & Cruises in Elgin Mall.

In the coming weeks we will host an open information night with tour representatives.

A $400 per person deposit secures your space.

Final payments will be due at least 90 days prior to departure, in early February.

Big win for Ojibwa?

Congratulations to the Elgin Military Museum which is now a finalist for the 2014 Travel Industry Association of Ontario Innovator of the Year Award. For anyone keeping track, that means that they are now nominated for the National & Provincial Innovator of the Year Awards for HMCS Ojibwa.

The announcement of the winner will be made at Blue Mountain Resort during the Ontario Tourism Summit on November 12-13.

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Member News Events and News of Interest to our Members

Free public Wi-Fi at St. Thomas Timken Community Centre

Editor’s Note: See related article on Ascent’s latest expansion on page 9 of this issue Ascent, in cooperation with the City of St. Thomas Parks & Recreation Department, is pleased to announce the implementation of free public Wi-Fi services throughout the Timken Centre.

This service will provide free high speed wireless Internet to visitors to the Timken centre. Recognizing the community nature of this facility, the Internet connection will have anti-virus and anti-malware protections, as well as content filtering to prevent access to adult content. Ron Osborne, CEO of Ascent, commented “We’re excited and pleased to offer this service for free to the City of St Thomas and visitors to the Timken Centre. Providing this solution at no cost to our community is part of our commitment to make St. Thomas the best place to live in the world.”

THANKS for making it happen National Small Business Week was October 19 to 25 this year and it was certainly a BUSY time for the Chamber with staff and volunteers producing, delivering and involved in several events.

All Candidates Event: Special thanks to P.J. Smith & Associates for being our main sponsor of this pre-election event for local electors and candidates.

Business Sample Show: With 45 exhibitors plus food suppliers and vendors, our annual show focused on great business plus a great new service for business. We very much appreciate our working relationship with Ascent and their decision to debut their new ultra high-speed wireless and fibre optic internet services at our show was definitely a plus for our Members and everyone attending.

Special thanks to The Weekly News and Elgin This Month for contributing prizes awarded to our Best Display and Most Interactive Display winners.

Spirit of St. Thomas Awards: Our partnership with myFM to support and sponsor their 3rd annual Spirit Awards added fun and value while boosting the collective spirit and attitude of 50 award winners and all the nominees. It appears the success of this program is contagious, too. During the event, we welcomed visitors from two other communities looking to do some R & D (robbing and duplicating) on the event! We tend to agree that plagiarism is a form a flattery, and wish them success!!

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BUSINESS & COMMUNITY Career ChoiCes

10 tips – Helping your child with post-secondary applications

by Laura Pavilonis and Nancy Annett

With the deadline for college and university enrollment seemingly just around the corner, students and parents alike are starting to panic.

“When in doubt, do a victory lap” is often what we hear students and parents respond when they simply don’t know if they are ready. Some are rushed and yet others simply haven’t taken the time they need to research the myriad of program and school options available to them.

Unfortunately for some, the deadline has come again, and it has no more mercy than it did last year. With up to 300+ students to service, guidance counsellors are a great source for information, but it’s up to the student to take responsibility for choosing the right courses and complete the on-line application process. They are also responsible for ensuring that they have researched the schools, programs and requirements needed

so that they are not applying to programs they you need and have a financing plan. don’t qualify for … they don’t want to waste an 6. Look for co-op opportunities in your program option. Applicants are also responsible for re- of choice, providing you with working experience searching and applying for and additions to your network. scholarships and bursaries, 7. Connect with people in your field something that all too often of interest and ask them about the “they don’t want to pros and cons of various programs. is left far too late for any real success.

8. Set a meeting to talk to the Direcwaste an option” Here are 10 tips to help tor of the desired program. He or she your child with the postwill offer you information you simply secondary application process: can’t get anywhere else.

1. Before applying, research programs well in 9. Ensure that you receive a confirmation that advance of the deadline to ensure all minimum your application has been received … we’ve seen requirements are met. too many students realize their application was 2. Contact the Admissions Office directly to ask never submitted. about the cut-offs from the previous year for the 10. Become your children’s biggest coach by program you are interested in. supporting them to realize their goals and make 3. Make sure the campus and the program are a decisions. good fit by visiting the campus, talking to past or The most important thing is to ensure that their current students or simply going to your local li- program of choice is a rewarding and enriching brary and read- experience. This can be impacted by many factors ing MacLean that have very little to do with the program of M a g a z i n e ’ s choice in and of itself. Don’t discount other fac2014 review. tors such as campus culture, learning style, or the 4. Search the other students in the program. For more informaschool web tion, visit these sites: site, or call the • www.canlearn.ca - Information on saving, Student Ser- grants, scholarships and other ways of funding vices Office to post-secondary education enquire about •www.topuniversities.com/student-survival/ what jobs and student-support/study-tips-exams - How to study compensation and succeed in university new graduates • oncampus.macleans.ca/education/ - Details can expect. on everything from university rankings to post5. Create a secondary student life budget so you •www.youthink.ca/yt/careers-ed/8-thingsknow how know-about-university - 8 things every student much money should know about university life

Nancy Annett, MBA, CHRP owns Ignite Career Life Solutions, and Laura Pavilonis, MBA, CHRP owns Reach Beyond Limits. Together, they form Rock Your Career Club.

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Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce

Hamilton Ward & Cathers proud winners of spirit award

HWC staff are dedicated to their customers and the community.

Hamilton Ward & Cathers (HWC) is the Southwestern Ontario with a commitment that include: winner of the 2014 Community Spirit Award dates back over 60 years. Since their incorporation Aylmer Kinsmen presented by Meridian and the Aylmer & Area in 1950, they’ve expanded to over 20 employees Aylmer Cemetery Board Chamber of Commerce. in four locations. Todd Sprague and Kathy HartCoaching & Sponsors of Sporting Events HWC Insurance is a long-standing brokerage in well purchased HWC from Kim Black who reRelay for Life tired from the industry MainStreet Aylmer in 2007.

United Way HWC prides themAylmer Corner Cupboard selves on a small town, Ducks Unlimited & many more. friendly service, work The Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce's ethic which extends Community Spirit award is about recognizing lothrough to their com- cal organizations and business members that show mitment of being “Your true community spirit.

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Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce Meridian’s commitments to the local community Meridian exists to help lives grow, and one of the ways to do so is through the credit union’s Commitment to Communities. As part of this commitment, Meridian invests a minimum of 4% of pretax earnings in initiatives that benefit Ontario’s communities. One of the key ways through to make these investments is through the Local Community Sponsorship Program.

A key difference with Meridian is that this commitment is local. Employees and branches are empowered to make decisions locally, both in terms of helping our Members and which organizations they choose to support.

The Good Neighbor Program reflects what the company stands for as a financial institution. The credit

union was originally founded by farmers, small business people and employees who could not find financial services that met their needs in their communities. Today, Meridian has more than a quarter of a million Members from all walks of life. Its hallmark is a focus on neighborhood banking, local decisionmaking and reinvesting its Members’ money in their communities to help build programs and services where Members and employees live, work and play.

The Community Spirit Award recognizes the contributions made to the local community by local businesses. Meridian Aylmer Branch is very supportive of this recognition and sponsoring this award was a perfect fit with Meridian’s approach to community.

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November, 2014

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19

Farm Business Report

Farm lifestyle and business attitudes both crucial at Mazak Farms

by Terry Carroll

Two divergent streams have emerged in Canadian agriculture.

In the dominant stream, farmers take an agribusiness approach – strong on technology and mechanization, utilizing the latest in research to produce the most efficiency per acre or per animal. This approach requires a lot of money to get started: a family inheritance, a solid capital source / investors, a friendly banker and millions of dollars may be involved.

At the same time, the smaller family farm has re-emerged in a new form. It may be a 100-acre parcel common in the mid-twentieth century, but it may also be much smaller. The owners may work full- or part-time at other occupations, and they may by selling into specialty or niche markets. Not so long ago, these enterprises went by the somewhat demeaning moniker of hobby farms. Now, words like organic, local, quality and fresh are associated with them. The business side can be as important to modern small farmers as it is to practitioners of agri-business. And some small-scale farmers were born and raised in urban areas and are now choosing a different lifestyle for themselves and their families.

November, 2014

Barry and Sarah Harrison, and their three daughters, exemplify this modern trend on their small farm near Talbotville. It’s called Mazak Farms, an operation started by Sarah’s parents, Rick and Mary Mazak, almost 40 years ago. The main crop is asparagus, but Barry and Sarah have been expanding and experimenting – with garlic, eggs, wood, leeks and even sweet corn, all on 10 acres of hard Elgin County soil. (The sweet corn last year was delicious and enjoyed immensely by raccoons who stripped every cob at its peak ripeness, except for three they left for the family).

While Sarah grew up in the small family farm environment, Barry spent his early childhood in Oakville, and lived in Talbotville while going to high school. He and Sarah resided in Kitchener Waterloo until taking over Mazak Farms four years ago.

They chose to combine the farm with their working careers because of the values farm life represent. “There’s a number of reasons we came back,” Barry says. But the main reason? “We wanted the girls to grow up in this environment. We wanted them to experience the importance of hard work and developing a work ethic.” The girls are their three daughters: Beth, age 5, Abby age 4 and Isabelle, 7 months at the time of this interview.

Farm time and family time are the same for the girls, whether gathering eggs or helping with asparagus or garlic.

Sarah says, “It really matters to whoever buys our produce that

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it is farmed very responsibly. So many people think bigger is better, but we’ve never found that – sometimes, the opposite.”

...wherever I sit down, or Sarah sits down, that can be our office...

The first year of farming was traumatic, particularly for Barry who had never before done it intensively. “It was the worst year the farm had ever had in terms of production,” Barry says, and he admits now that he was not prepared for the long hours and endless work involved in running a farm. But the next two years were two of the best, and he quickly adapted to the pace.

That pace includes careers off the farm. Sarah is on the faculty with Georgian College in Orillia, instructing in recreation therapy. Face-to-face classes are at Sunnybrook Hospital, but the bulk of her teaching time is spent on-line. Barry is Director of Competitions for Skills Ontario. His main responsibility is running the Ontario Technological Skills Competition, the largest skilled trades competition in Canada, an “Olympics-style event with up to 67 contestants under one roof.”

It’s a balancing act for this young family, and they make full use of technology. With Wi-fi and smart phones, “wherever I sit down, or Sarah sits down, that can be our office,” Barry says. The kitchen table is also the boardroom table.

Continued on page 21...

20

Farm Business Report

pricing, quality and delivery. Following in the footsteps of Rick and Mary Mazak, the Harrisons are fiends about quality. That explains the sales they also make to local people, whether split wood, garlic, asparagus, free range eggs or the leeks they’ve recently added. A couple drove all the way from Toronto to buy Mazak produce this year. “There’s no greater compliment,” Sarah says.

The Harrisons take the approach of “doing one thing and doing it really well” before moving on to something else. They are very hands-on with the seasonal staff they hire (all local). “The staff are more interested in doing what we ask, if they see us doing it ourselves,” Barry says. And one advantage they have over large commodity producing farms is pricing. “We set the prices. We don’t rely on commodity prices here,” Sarah says.

They have one overriding word of advice for anyone considering a similar enterprise. As Sarah says, “It’s not a romanticized version of a business. It is a business, and you have to treat it that way.”

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Rick Mazak tosses split wood on the farm of his son-in-law and daughter.

Continued from page 20...

Sarah says “the organic movement and the local food movement” are keys to the current success of small-scale farms. The Harrisons have excellent relationships with, and regularly deliver to, The Big Carrot, Organic Garage, Fresh City and Whole Foods in Toronto. Mazak Farms also work with Eat Green and On The Move in London, Farmgate in St. Thomas and others. As part of their honest dealings with distributors, Barry and Sarah contact all their distributors once a year so everyone is clear on

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Farmer’s Son does Farm Business Accounting As the son of a farmer who immigrated to Canada in 1982, I have first-hand knowledge of the day to day issues that are involved in farming. I understand farming terminology such as anhydrous ammonia and PTO, so no time is wasted asking about farming terms and more time is spent on your true business requirements.

One of the main reasons I decided to become an accountant was because of the lack of planning and advice that my parents’ accountant gave them prior to the sale of their farm. The poor advice resulted in an overpayment of income taxes that otherwise could have been avoided. I treat every client with the same care and forethought that I wish had been given to my parents at that critical point in their lives.

November, 2014

In today’s farming environment, there are many issues that once were relatively small and easily overcome. Today these issues (such as succession planning) come with some major tax ramifications due to the current value of land and the age of the majority of today’s farmers. There unfortunately is no single answer or approach that will work for everyone.

I believe in getting to know the issues and understanding each of my client’s ultimate plans so that I can come up with the most tax advantageous plan. The ultimate goal is to keep as much of your hard earned money in your family’s hands for as long as possible. Tax is ultimately unavoidable, but paying minimal tax and as far into the future as possible is why you need a qualified accountant.

One of the main reasons I decided to become an accountant was because of the lack of planning and advice that my parents’ accountant gave them prior to the sale of their farm.

ELGIN THIS MONTH

Mark Lassam, CPA, CA St. Thomas 519-631-1631 mark@lassam.ca 21

Farm Business Report

This old truck

by Janine Lunn

With all the other heavy equipment around it sometimes seems a little strange to keep a pick-up truck around as well. After all, tractors, loaders and four wheelers can do the bulk of the work.

But trucks are indispensable for the “just in case” situation. You never know when the day might call for carting tree branches, hauling livestock to the sale barn, or using the four-wheel drive to tackle muddy corner of the field, or the mammoth snow drift. To be completely honest, there’s a certain amount of pride in having a truck to complete the farm fleet.

AVOID WHITE MOULD Children carry backpacks, and some of us have handbags, but BREAK YIELD BARRIERS farmers have their trucks. They are all at 100 bu.\a once a filing system, a toolbox and a suitcase COMMERCIAL PRODUCTION (and yes, possibly even a purse), although there’s Allan Spicer no guarantee that any of the treasures they 519-657-8320 hold are clean, or rustYes, there are some allan@cangrow.com free. truck-owners who prefer neat and tidy, and weekly cleaning, but most of the farm trucks TD Canada Trust I know have a lot more of the “outside” on the “inside,” are well-worn and boast a few battle Meet our Agriculture Services Team scars. We had a reality check when we realized our model was now We know that farming is more than a business – it’s a way of older than some of the life. We are committed to serving Canada’s farm communities by teenaged employees on providing flexible financial solutions that let you get on with the the farm, who didn't business of farming. know how to operate manual locks, windows Contact one of our Agriculture Specialists. We’ll take the time or tape decks! necessary to understand your unique needs. Together we can meet Our old truck bears today’s challenges and anticipate tomorrow’s opportunities. the marks of the family farm: small, dusty jackJeff Segeren

One of my favourite habits of country living is the waving at neighbors as we pass on the road.

It’s a simple little thing that makes life more pleasant, but I think the most interesting aspect of this countrified social behavior is that we know who to wave at based on the make, model and year of their truck. Farm trucks are part of our landscape, and just part of the cost of doing business on the farm.

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ets to be shaken out when dad selects a helper for the afternoon, an assortment of dinky cars and equipment, tractor sale flyers for the helpers to read, seed sale slips, livestock tags and their tools, and plenty of hardware and other curiosities for sorting. A closer look reveals the faint markings of bright orange construction paint from years ago, when a particularly curious helper was waiting in the box a few minutes too long.

The farm truck is a farmer’s personal space, which can also be defined by the soundscape. In this case, the radio dial usually switches between country music, or the AM side for a play-by-play of the day’s baseball or hockey game. Our young helpers prefer the music, and have learned the lyrics to many country tunes in their travels. We can tell how much trucks mean to their drivers by the sheer number of country songs on the topic!

It is inevitable that old farm trucks give way to new ones, or in some cases, new-ish. This can create a bit of confusion as we inadvertently snub long-time neighbours while we adjust to the make and colour of their new wheels. If we’re ever unsure about who is driving what, we only need to ask our “neighborhood watch” of young truck-lovers. Our crew are already planning their first truck purchases, comparing the merits of size and style – not aware yet how many pennies (now nickels) they’ll need to save to put their own trucks on the road!

Travelling by truck is not such a bad way to get around: close quarters, the faint smell of livestock and straw, sunflower seeds for spitting and a close eye on the road to be ready to wave when neighbours pass. And nothing can beat the view from up high in a pick-up truck when checking out crops and back roads in the countryside. It will be a bittersweet day when we part with our old truck, but it won't take long before a newer one to be broken in, just the way we like it.

Janine Lunn lives on the family farm near Belmont, Ontario.

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November, 2014

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22

Farm Business Report

Develop wetlands with Kettle Creek Environmental Trust

Environment Canada recommends 10 percent of a landscape be dedicated to wetland habitat. Currently, wetland habitats in the Kettle Creek watershed occupy only about 1 percent of the available area.

Raising that level can be relatively easy. “Many farms have marginal land or unproductive land that can be converted to wetlands,” said the founding president of Kettle Creek Environmental Trust (KCET), Richard Haddow.

KCET trustees recognize that some farmers are willing to dedicate a few acres of land to improve the environment but may not be able to fund the entire restoration themselves. Kettle Creek Environmental Trust has taken on the restoration and funding of wetland projects as a special focus in 2014 and 2015, according to current KCET trust president Terry Carroll.

Wetlands act as a giant sponge, slowly absorbing water and releasing it when necessary. Wetlands

also slow down the flow of water as it travels to the ing the local environment. “We raise funds locally lake, and less speed means less soil erosion. Because to be used towards improving the Kettle Creek wawetlands slow the flow of water, they also filter the tershed which is an important habitat for a variety water. This natural cleaning process helps to keep of birds, animals, fish, insects and plants. It also pollution, toxins and nutrients out of the water. provides essential ecological services for all of us The Kettle Creek Environmental Trust was initi- who live here, such as clean drinking water, fresh ated in 2006 by a group of dedicated volunteers air, and is a wonderful place to explore,” said Richwho wanted to ensure that money raised locally for ard Haddow. environmental efforts remained local. Today, the For more information about converting property work of the Trust is guided by a volunteer Board of to wetlands or to discuss a donation, call 519-631Trustees. The Trust invests in projects that aim to 1270 or visit kettlecreektrust.com. conserve, protect, restore and educate the community about the Kettle Creek watershed.

The Trust is supported by and works closely with a number of local environmental agencies. Partner organizations provide • Farm Drainage • Excavation of Basements office space, support staff and lend expertise to • Watermains • Bulldozing many of the Trust’s envi• Road Boring ronmental and education • Brush Cutting projects.

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Wise Line Metal Sales introduces ZAM! Superior corrosion resistance to galvanized steel but at a fraction of the cost of of stainless steel ZAM is a protective coating that is similar to galvanized and repels corrosion for long lasting metal structures because aluminum, magnesium and silicon are further added to the conventional zinc coating. The compound effect of these additives dramatically enhances corrosion resistance. By the compound action of silicon and magnesium, in particular, the effect of restraining corrosion is further strengthened.

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November, 2014

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23

Farm Business Report

Up-to-date milking goat barn arises from ashes

by Terry Carroll

An electrical fire destroyed Ed Donkers’s 900herd milking goat operation near Frome on December 17, 2014, a nearly $2 million loss that was devastating both emotionally and financially. But Ed picked himself up and made the decision to rebuild. That project is now nearing completion. Ed Donkers has been gradually rebuilding his herd, and he hopes to be milking again by Christmas.

Last December, once the fire started, it was over in minutes because the barns had vinyl in the ceil-

ing and space between the rafters and the roof.

Whoosh, and the barn was gone. The fire was doubly traumatic for Ed because goats are such curious and affectionate animals. When he was making his plans to rebuild, Ed was determined to not only go bigger and better but also to make every effort to construct fire-proof barns.

This time, he’s using cathedral ceilings, so even if (God forbid) a fire started, there is no possibility of fire travelling as it did before.

The new main barn uses foundation Kept as thetheold.same Ed has added We are the Area’s Best addition that includes Products! an four sorting pens and a roSecret in Industrial tary milking parlour that his dad, Leo Donkers, is helping to weld at • Apparel • Personal Protective Equipment Muma Manufacturing in • Tools • Traffic Safety Products St. Thomas. Everything will be computerized and We Repair Hydraulic Hoses too! mechanized in the new operation, and Ed is exploring the possibility of selling the new rotary milking parlour concept to other goat farmers, if 1155 Talbot St., Bld #4, St. Thomas, ON • (519) 633-5884 that possibility presents sales@r-safety.ca • www.r-safety.ca itself.

Supporting Agriculture in elgin county

Ed Donkers is greeted by one of his favourite goats in the new barn.

No matter how technologically advanced goat milking has become, “somebody still has to put the milker on,” Ed says, and that means 4:30 in the morning start times. He’s optimistic that in his lifetime, even that part of the process may be mechanized.

Solar panels are being installed on the south side of the barn, and Ed expects “a four-year payback on the solar hot water.” When it’s in full operation, the barns require 500 gallons of hot water a day for sterilization of all equipment and the bulk tank. The new bulk tank holds 16,000 litres, and provisions are in place for a second tank as expansion is required. Continued on page 25

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Farm Business Report

Up-to-date milking goat barn arises from ashes

Continued from page 24 The new barn will accommodate 1,200 milking goats with capacity for future expansion.

Ed has been acquiring CAE free goats, half of them out of Quebec, as he prepares to resume the milking operation. CAE stands for Caprine Arthritis Encephalitis, a virus that affects goats and not humans. Goats pass CAE to each other via infected colostrum, milk, or blood, hence the vital importance of being CAE free.

The goats’ milk market in Ontario has been on a steadily upward curve as demand keeps expanding for goat cheese. However, the majority of goat

Steel roofing goes on the new addition.

farms are much smaller than Ed’s. Getting started, even in a small way, with goats doesn’t carry with it the equity cost of dairy cattle, and the cash flow return is sooner, Ed points out.

Leo Donkers was the original dairy farmer on the 260-acre Donkers Family Farm on Mill Rd. starting almost a quarter of a century ago. Ed took over the farm and converted to a goat milking operation in 2007. The main goat diet is hay and Disease-free goats in the rebuilt main barn should pellets, so the farm grows mostly hay and some be milking by December. beans as cash crop. Pellets are purchased commercially, and Ed markets Fuel & lubricants to Keep Your the goat milk through Woolwich Cheese. There Farm equipment at peaK perFormance is no marketing board for goats’ milk, and Ed is a member of the Ontario Dairy Goat Cooperative.

One other important step in the recovery from the tragic fire: Ed lost his much-loved farm dog Hank to the flames, but a beautiful, even-tempered Chris Cattrysse dog called Bentley now Customer Account Representative greets visitors. Things (226) 378-8983 (cell) will never be the same, (519) 631-3810 (office) but time does move on.

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Farm Business Report

Post-Modern Localism

by Jamie Quai

I’m looking to start a discussion. There’s been a nagging question that I can’t seem to dismiss: what is beyond the local movement? We’ve tried industrial farming, winemaking, brewing and food processing. They have their advantages, but the fact that there’s resurgence in the ‘Go Local’ movement, and a rise in small-scale environmentally sustainable food models, suggests that the big factory approach isn’t necessarily the way forward.

If the trend we are living in right now is Modern Localism (Pre-Modern Localism would be a time before the Globalization movement when Local meant survival), when it comes to how we source our foods; what is Post-Modern Localism, or PM, going to look like?

This entire preamble brings me to a thesis – Post Modern Localism will include three considerations in a very specific order. First, and most importantly: quality in materials. Next comes quality of service. Last comes proximity of the goods to the consumer. I acknowledge that all three of these factors are present in today’s retail experience. What I am proposing is that in PM that order will matter.

Quality in material is at the very core of the return to Local producers. The reality is that if a huge factory farm on the other side of the con-

tinent could produce vegetables that tasted even close to how amazing fresh local vegetables taste, the local movement would never have resurged.

We can directly compare apples to apples. The next component of this trinity is quality of service. If there are several producers in your area with (to your taste) equal qualities of product, you can make the choice based on some degree of service quality. Product presentation, loyalty recognition and being treated well by the seller become important. In a PM Localism world – only after the quality has been ascertained, and the service is good, will how close the producer is to the community be a consideration.

My personal observation as a supporter of the current Modern Localism movement from both a consumer and producer standpoint has been that the geographic proximity of the good has been given more weight relative to the quality of the product, or the quality of the service.

I’ve often heard (and been heard to say) some derivation of selecting something because it’s the local choice. There are plenty of stats to support making the local choice. Supporting local producers is important to enhance the health of the community you live in. And the quality has always been there, but continuing to make important purchasing decisions with an emphasis on the goods being the ‘local’ choice will not be sustainable.

...we can directly compare apples to apples...

You may have noticed cost/price has been absent from the considerations in Post-Modern Localism. Prices would be an overarching consideration in product, service and geography. It will almost never be used as the final deciding factor to Post Modernists. Modern Localism used fair food pricing and the overemphasis on geography to distinguish itself from the Globalism (mega box store) approach to food sales where price is given greater importance than quality or service.

But price isn’t always the issue it’s made out to be. Those on a limited financial budget can make Modern or PM Localism work. For example, my wife Kim and I eat quality local, fresh, and avoid big box grocery stores as much as possible. We feed three for a week for less than $175.

There is an old saying in the wine industry: “What’s on the bottle gets you your first sale, what’s in the bottle gets you the second.” This saying keeps popping into my head as I’ve been reflecting on a Post Modern Localism future.

Under Modern Localism the word ‘local’ on the label or advertizing is given equal or more weight than the product. A PM approach will mean taking the ‘local choice’ jargon off the promotion and leading with quality.

Continued on Page 27

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Farm Business Report

Protect your investment: Soil and water conservation workshop The Kettle Creek Conservation Authority is working with the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs to host a free workshop on soil and water conservation for rural landowners and farmers on Tuesday, November 4 at the Belmont Arena from 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

“We hope this workshop will raise awareness of the steps landowners can take to reduce sediment and phosphorus loading in our streams,” said Betsy McClure, Stewardship Program Coordinator with KCCA. “Phosphorus is the key nutrient that’s triggering harmful algae blooms in Lake

Erie. We may be able to improve water quality if we can reduce phosphorus sources in rural and urban areas.”

The workshop will see agriculture and conservation specialists explore how to identify soil and erosion control concerns on your property, offer practical solutions to address those issues and discuss economic benefits and funding opportunities.

The keynote speaker for the workshop is Stefan Zehetner, President of Huron County Soil and Crop Improvement Association. Stefan Zehetner

Post-Modern Localism

Continued from Page 26 I’ve noticed a Post-Modern Localism approach creeping into my shopping and selling behaviour. It’s not revolutionary, but it’s becoming noticeable. I have almost stopped buying items because they are the local choice. I buy them because they are the best choice. They are the same products just a different reason. The unfailingly logical Mr Spock once said: a difference which makes no difference is not a difference. But this Post-Modern trinity with quality first, continues to build on the long term relationships with your local farmers / producers / chefs, delivers a pleasant purchasing experience, and reminds the farmer / producer / chef that striving to create the best product is job one.

Jamie Quai is head That is a difference. Agree? Disagree? winemaker at Quai I’d love to hear what everyone thinks. du Vin Estate Winery Let’s talk about where Modern Localin Elgin County ism is going.

is not only a young farmer himself but also a community leader and entrepreneur. Recently he has taken his passion for conservation farming to new heights with the startup of Huron Cover Crops – a company specializing in cover crop options as well as forages.

Registration is now open for this free workshop and farm tour. To register, please contact Katie Ebel at 519-631-1270 ext.230 or email katie@ kettlecreekconservation.on.ca.

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November, 2014

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27

Remembrance Day Day Remembrance Elgin at war

by Ric Wellwood

As Colonel Talbot was completing Highway Three along the shore of Lake Erie, a settler showed up for every mile or so, coming mostly from Europe. My own family arrived in Halifax in 1830 aboard a ship from Ireland, and those who didn’t settle in Nova Scotia Ellis Wellwood Sifton made their way westward, through Quebec and Ontario over the next thirty years.

By the time 1860 had arrived, some of the family had crossed into Michigan and fought for the Union in the American Civil War. Except for my own brief service in the RCAF, all my family was Army. Two of my uncles saw action in the Second World War, and three of my cousins, Christopher, Michael and Maureen, more recently as army officers in the Middle East, Bosnia and Afghanistan. We can trace this tradition of service back to the Great War, and a young

farmer from the West Elgin village of Wallacetown.

On the way west, one Wellwood girl met and married a farmer named Sifton, and they raised a family that included a young man named Ellis Wellwood Sifton. Ellis didn’t get along too well with his father and when war was declared in 1914, he declared his independence, went a few miles east to St. Thomas and signed up with the 18th Battalion, Western Ontario in the Canadian Expeditionary Force that was destined to fight in Europe.

While millions of men from both sides went into combat, most had a miserable time. The cleanest jobs went to the aviators on either side, like Billy Bishop or Baron Manfred von Richtoven. The rest were slogging through the mud and hoping that artillery shells wouldn’t kill them so badly that no one would recognize the remains. This kind of decimation led to the idea of the Unknown Soldier. It was decades before DNA would come in to usage.

Ellis arrived amid the carnage and waste of a war that began with an assassination in Sarajevo and ended years later in a welcome Armistice. In the middle of the war, British leadership was faltering and many soldiers were killed because they were sent into impossible situations. One of these situations arrived three years into the war when the Allied advance was held up by heavy defense at a ridge in Vimy, France.

The British Empire had summoned many colonies into the fray, including Canada and it was at Vimy Ridge that Canada became recognized as a viable, vibrant nation, rather than a simple colony. It was a major

turning point in our history. At Vimy Ridge, four Canadians received the Victoria Cross, the Empire’s highest decoration for valour.

One was Ellis Wellwood Sifton.

His Victoria Cross citation, published in the London Gazette on the eighth of June, 1917 reads: “For most conspicuous bravery and devotion to duty. During the attack in enemy trenches Sjt. Sifton's company was held up by machine gun fire which inflicted many casualties. Having located the gun he charged it single-handed, killing all the crew. A small enemy party advanced down the trench, but he succeeded keeping these off till our men had gained the position. In carrying out this gallant act he was killed, but his conspicuous valour undoubtedly saved many lives and contributed largely to the success of the operation.”

Ellis wrote home to his sister just before the Battle at Vimy to say he had been promoted to Lance Sergeant . A replica of his Victoria Cross is on display at the Elgin Military Museum, along with contributions that other Elgin County soldiers made to the Great War. Every town and city in Canada has a cenotaph somewhere to honour the fallen and those who returned either safe or wounded. We shall remember all of our veterans including those still on duty in trouble spots around the world.

Elgin County can be proud.

Join us for our

Remembrance Day Celebration on Tuesday, November 11th at 11am in front of the St. Thomas/Elgin General Hospital to Honour our Veterans 545 Talbot St., St. Thomas

519-631-1680 www.stthomas.ca November, 2014

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Remembrance Day Day Remembrance 1914

Anthem for Doomed Youth

Wilfred Owen

War broke: and now the Winter of the world With perishing great darkness closes in.

The foul tornado, centred at Berlin, Is over all the width of Europe whirled, Rending the sails of progress. Rent or furled Are all Art's ensigns. Verse wails. Now begin Famines of thought and feeling. Love's wine's thin.

The grain of human Autumn rots, down-hurled.

For after Spring had bloomed in early Greece, And Summer blazed her glory out with Rome, An Autumn softly fell, a harvest home, A slow grand age, and rich with all increase.

But now, for us, wild Winter, and the need Of sowings for new Spring, and blood for seed.

In Flanders Fields

by John McCrae In Flanders fields the poppies blow Between the crosses, row on row, That mark our place; and in the sky The larks, still bravely singing, fly Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow, Loved and were loved, and now we lie, In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from failing hands we throw The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders fields.

On November 11th

REMEMBER We We honour honour those those who who have have given given their their lives lives to to defend defend our our freedom. freedom.

Wilfred Owen

What passing-bells for these who die as cattle?

Only the monstrous anger of the guns.

Only the stuttering rifles’ rapid rattle Can patter out their hasty orisons.

No mockeries for them; no prayers nor bells, Nor any voice of mourning save the choirs,The shrill, demented choirs of wailing shells; And bugles calling for them from sad shires.

What candles may be held to speed them all?

Not in the hands of boys, but in their eyes Shall shine the holy glimmers of goodbyes.

The pallor of girls’ brows shall be their pall; Their flowers the tenderness of patient minds, And each slow dusk a drawing-down of blinds.

Thank you to our service men and women who fearlessly defend freedom around the world.

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ON NOVEMBER 11th Please remember those who gave their lives and those who continue to serve our Country.

JEFF YUREK, MPP

ELGIN-MIDDLESEX-LONDON

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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

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LIFESTYLE TIME ON MY HANDS

Close encounters in the wild We can’t all be happy campers

by Duncan Watterworth

You’d better like wildlife if you paddle and camp on the islands of northern Georgian Bay. I’ve seen rattlers, black bears and much more. But my most unusual animal encounter started in 2011 at the place we call the World’s Best Camp Site (WBCS).

With hundreds of islands spread along seventy kilometers, the waterway is sea-kayaker heaven.

The whole stretch is an art gallery, each island a pink sculpture of granite, smoothed and polished by glaciers, emerging from transparent blue water.

There’s no way I’m telling you where the WBCS is, but I’ve sojourned there many times. It is perfect for swimming, warming on the rocks like a snake, reading books, pondering the processes that created the place, picking blueberries, touching the stars, letting time stand still. Ahhhh…

Sorry. My mind went walkabout for a moment. Here’s the animal story: In 2011, on our

to do. And then I saw two more in the boat, so I pulled them out on my sleeve. It was like fishing.

A bigger, lighter-coloured one appeared. When it touched the granite, it took off like a shot. There were more, and more again. I was a magician pulling rabbits out of a hat, amazing myself.

By the time the magic was over, three adult mice had come out. All had disappeared in a flash. And fourteen little ones were left on the ground, huddling together, or crawling under the boat, or climbing on my gear.

My best guess is that the fourteen had been born in the kayak, which had been stored in my barn. The boat has a low, enclosed space under the seat – room for a nest. Why there were three adults, I’ll never know. Anyway, the adventures of the seventeen stowaways were far

second day out, Jim and I pulled our kayaks ashore at the WBCS and unloaded our gear. Something moved in the bottom of my boat – a little mouse!

How did that get there? I dangled the sleeve of my jacket, and when it climbed on, I pulled it out.

It just sat on the bare rock, having no idea what

...we had a history, and I sensed attitude...

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from over.

Or maybe soon to be over. We just left the little ones alone, but soon a large garter snake was crawling over the scene.

We didn’t see where the mice went, but their day may have gone from bad to worse. And that’s the end of the story. For that year.

The next summer, Jim and I were in the neighbourhood again, and pulled up on the WBCS. I was setting up my tent when I looked down to see a mouse two steps away, just staring at me.

Strange behaviour for a mouse in broad daylight, I thought. I had never seen a mouse on these islands before, except for last year’s hitchhikers.

Our eyes locked together, and that mouse didn’t flinch. We had a history, and I sensed attitude. I turned my back, and finished my chores. Was it the alpha leader of a new invasive species on the island? Or the bitter sole survivor of its clan?

That night, I half expected trouble, but I was not disturbed, and Jim and I paddled away in the morning. Perhaps I misread the little guy. This wasn’t the WBCS for it, and maybe it just wanted back in the boat.

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HEALTHY LIVING EVERYDAY HEALTH

Registered Massage Therapy Part of an overall wellness plan

by Dr. Greg Johnston B.H.K., B.Ed., D.C.

One of the things that I enjoy the most about being a chiropractor is having the opportunity to work with a variety of health care practitioners including medical doctors, physiotherapists, kinesiologists, naturopaths, acupuncturists and massage therapists to name a few. There are many healthcare providers available to healthcare consumers and all have something unique and beneficial to offer.

I commonly find myself working concurrently with massage therapists. The addition of a registered massage therapist to your healthcare team can be extremely beneficial. This month, we will be exploring some of the important aspects of registered massage therapy.

What is Massage Therapy?

Massage Therapy is the assessment of soft tissues and joints of the body, and the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain in the soft tissues and joints by manipulation. This manipulation is used to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function or relieve pain. (Ontario Massage Therapy Act 1991) Massage Therapy is controlled by the same Regulated Health Practitioners Act (RHPA) that regulates Chiropractors, Doctors, Nurses, Physiotherapists, Dentists, etc. When looking for a practitioner, be sure to find a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT). An RMT is required to fulfill 2200 hours of education in areas of anatomy, physiology, pathology, kinesiology, theory, treatments and business acumen at a recognised massage therapy school. To become registered, an RMT must pass a written and oral board exam.

To maintain his or her licence, an RMT must complete continuing education units on a yearly basis.

Not all massage therapists are registered massage therapists, so it is important to look for one that is, and to request information about their education, training and certification. This will ensure that you are receiving a truly therapeutic massage and that it will be delivered in a safe and

November, 2014

the area or areas of concern will be performed. beneficial way .

The practitioner should then relay to you a cliniWhat are the benefits of Massage Therapy?

Massage therapy can increase circulation, in- cal opinion and describe an appropriate course of crease lymphatic flow, decrease muscle tension, action. Upon your approval and consent, a treatdecrease adhesions and scar tissue, decrease pain, ment is generally performed.

As with many physical therapies it may be necdecrease inflammation, increase range of motion, essary to have several treatment improve posture, improve sessions to properly address your sports performance, increase specific problem. Massage therapy immune function, improve respiratory “everyone can benefit physically manipulates the soft tisfunction, from Massage Therapy” sues attempting to lengthen muscles, release adhesions and break increase up scar tissue. Unfortunately, these relaxation, increase rate of healing and in- changes do not happen instantly. It takes hard crease well being. Regular mas- work at times. Some massage therapists may also sage therapy sessions can also suggest certain exercises and make additional sugbe used as a part of one’s overall gestions regarding hydration, rest, or the use of wellness plan to help prevent hot or cold packs.

A qualified registered massage therapist should injury. be on everyone’s healthcare team. Consider addWho can benefit from Mas- ing one to yours. sage Therapy?

Massage can help individuals Dr. Greg Johnston is a Chiroinjured at work, home or in a practor and partner in Family motor vehicle accident. MasHealth Options Treatment & sage Therapy can help ease the Resources Centre in St.Thomas discomfort of pregnancy. Massage Therapy can help athletes, factory workers, individuals that work at a computer, long distance drivers, and individuals with stressful jobs. Anyone with headaches, back pain, neck pain, arm pain, hand pain, leg pain and/or foot pain can benefit from Massage Therapy. In short, the answer is everyone can benefit from Massage Therapy!

What to expect on your first visit?

As when visiting any qualified healthcare practitioner, you will be expected to complete a thorough health profile questionnaire. This will aid your therapist in determining the main areas of concern as well as providing important information about health concerns so that an appropriate regimen of treatment can be provided. Next a thorough history and physical assessment of

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Call us to book your free physiotherapy scan! www.TalbotTrailPhysiotherapy.ca St. Thomas (STEGH): 189 Elm St. T. 519.637.7171 Aylmer: 2-418 Talbot St. W. T. 519.773.7400 West Lorne: 146 Munroe St. T. 519.768.3998

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