November 2017

Farm Business Report Pages 22 - 33

Your Business. Your Community.

Volume 8 No. 3, November 2017

WALKER FAMILY FARMS Agriculture in the blood Cover story: Page 3 Inside: • Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce Pages 20 & 21

•Remembrance Day Pages 17 - 19

Located at St. Thomas Ford

We donate $20 to Christmas Care for every tire sold during our Amazing Tire Sale from November 13 to 18!

Up to $100 Rebate on Winter Tires for all makes and models!

We are also your official Drop-off Centre for Christmas Care for your donated toys, canned and dry goods.

Join us on Sunday, November 19 for the St. Thomas Stars game at Timkin Arena for the Christmas Care Kick-Off game!

Bring your toy and canned good donations to help us fill the pick-up truck for Christmas Care for a discounted game ticket!

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

Fourth generation farm

goes to the (dairy) cows

by Melissa Schneider For Elgin This Month

Born and raised in Aylmer, fourth generation dairy farmer John Walker Jr., 32, and his siblings (Scott, Dayna, Clint and Jane) are no strangers to how much good milk does a body.

Known locally for their large dairy herd, the siblings have taken over the day-to-day operations of Walker Family Farms and in addition to milk also produce crops of alfalfa, corn, wheat and soya beans that are planted on approximately 3,500 acres in Malahide and Bayham Township.

While John oversees general farm operations, his brother Clint is more involved in the crops, Scott oversees the dairy, Dayna works in the office and Jane is away at school studying kinesiology.

The dairy farm was started by John’s greatgrandfather Solon Walker, with his grandfather John and father Jon also getting involved in the family business. Those were different times, Walker said, with more labour intensive ways of milking dairy cows.

Now more than 1,650 cows are milked twice a day, with another 1,600 that will be milked once they’ve calved. Two months before the cow calves the milk dries up and Walker said the cows get a break from being milked and a chance to rest.

After they’ve calved they will once again be part of the milking process.

On average each cow produces 32 litres a day,

which Walker calls a decent yield.

“We don’t push our cows for a higher average because our goal is to keep a nice, healthy, happy cow,” he said.

Milking the dairy cows starts at 4 a.m. and runs in two shifts of four men – one person bringing the cows into the parlour and three milking. The first shift runs from 4 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and the second shift from 4 p.m. to midnight. The cows are also provided with a chef that specially blends Clint (left), Scott and John Walker discuss feed for their Holsteins. the cow feed produced on the farm. importance and value of items produced locally.

The dairy barn features a viewing area that gets All the dairy cows on the farm are bred by the used at least once a month for school tours and family through artificial insemination. If that anyone who wants to see what their operation is doesn’t take, then cows are penned in with the about. bull. Most of the breeding happens when replace“We’re pretty open about having people come ment cows are needed, but a few are sold. The in to see what we do because we want to show overseas selling is primarily done by grandfather people how we treat our animals. We have noth- John Walker who also handles the auction side of ing to hide,” he said. “At the end of the day cows the business. are what puts food on our table and we’re going Continued on page 22 to treat them right.” He adds that it seems people Cover and page 3 photos by Mike Maloney are removed from the food chain and that farmers need to work harder to educate the public on the

Elgin This Month Section Editor Business Beat – Bob Hammersley Freelance Editor Terry Carroll Sales Supervisor Geoff Rae

Advertising Consultant Greg Minnema Layout Janine Taylor Production Metroland Media Group

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, 2017

ELGIN THIS MONTH

3

INNES As I See It

Your inner bear can get you in trouble

by Jim Innes I am a bit of a bear. I growl when I stub my toe. And though it’s just my reaction to pain, with no intent but combustion, they retreat (this ‘they’ being, unfortunately, my friends).

I’ve learned that many are attracted to bears, but not so much the growl. It’s a sad state for any bear, an irritation really, to be continually wondering why they can’t handle the whole package.

I understand the attraction the engagingly fuzzy, childishly awkward, forgivably bristly, and charmingly rugged (so I say) bearish type. But unfortunately, people are shocked when the bear makes his rumbling noise, when the bear is a bit of, well, a bear.

Over the years I’ve come to terms with some of these dynamics, including my occasional tendency to grunt and grumble. Here is how I see it.

The bear symbolizes strength and confidence. It’s admired. Its presence inspires respect. This is good! But the bear persona is also a perfect mask for uncertainty. And when the weaker bear awakens, bearish power loses strength, replaced by an overreaction that induces fear.

The bear in me, in us, is a real power.

Among Native Americans, bear represents “extremely strong medicine including special powers in the areas of wisdom, strength and healing”. The bear signifies courage and a deep connection to earth.

Despite the bear’s power, and likely because of its power, the bear can trigger • Full & Partial Dentures shame. Some of this shame arises within us (the bears) • Dentures on Implants when we have been a little scary to others. But a lot of • Same Day Relines & Repair shame can be provoked in others (the bear’s friends) who take our growls to • Financing Available

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heart (for whatever reason).

This is a difficult issue for the bear because, after an episode, when what our bear needs most is to retreat into a cave, it finds itself chasing down its friends to apologize. And we bears often don’t even know what we are truly apologizing for, except of course, that we upset them.

As I see it, the bear is as easily misunderstood, as its immediate presence can be disconcerting. It’s big. It’s wide. And it’s got teeth. Making it impossible to control the projections people place upon its intent. So when the bear loses a bit of control, a lot seems to be happening.

More than one book on native spirituality claims, “If the bear shows up in your life, it may also be time to take care of your own needs for healing, whether it’s at the physical, emotional or spiritual level.” I take this to mean that if my bearish growl abruptly shows up, I need to take time for reflection and self-care, mostly focusing on my own inner process.

It needs be said, that the growl is not automatically anger (as many suspect, or at least conjecture). The growl is but a provocation that can connect to any number of feelings and thoughts. After all, the bear, for all its power, is not necessarily the animal with the highest EQ (emotional awareness).

It’s hard to be a bear, and I recommend Henri Nouwen’s book, The Wounded Healer, to any of you bears interested in learning more about your latent power to heal.

In the meantime, all I can say is, “We are who we are”, and if you happen to be a bit of a bear, then God grant you the grace to see your strength, unearth your power, and with but minimal guilt, manage your effect on others.

Jim Innes is a clinically trained therapist who served for many years as a priest at St. John’s Anglican in St. Thomas.

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E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 4

Business & Community Your Team

Define the skills you need, and create systems

by Laura Pavilonis and Nancy Annett

Growing a business and growing your people have created troubling questions since the beginning of time. How do you ensure you have the right people, with the right amount of training, to sustain your current growth and growth projections?

There are two main areas in which an owner or manager can find answers.

First, identify the skills you need, and don’t just hire technical experts when you need management strength. It’s hard when you’re trying to cover all the bases – social media guru, sales expert, management skills. And the list goes on. Unfortunately, most organizations promote their technical experts into management roles where they are still responsible for using their technical expertise to deal with difficult technical problems. Technical experts may have neither the personality type nor the expertise to be strong managers.

To be successful at hiring the right person for the role, you need to be very clear on what tasks and accountabilities and skills the position requires. As well, you need to know how much time the person will be spending on each of those responsibilities. If you hire someone who has management skills but doesn’t have the technical skills, which are 80% of the job, either you or the new hire will eventually fail. If you need to hire different people, even part time, to handle each of these tasks, it’s better to do

that than risk the cost of a bad hire.

Second, systemize processes, and don’t just hope your current way of doing business will work as you grow. If you do this, it makes training new people a lot easier.

Undoubtedly, you will probably have some resistance as systemization is time-consuming (the last thing someone needs on their plate during busy times). But it’s definitely short-term pain for a long-term gain situation. Resistance to it may display itself as open hostility or information hoarding. It’s simply the human condition of fear – fear of any change. In this case, fear of becoming obsolete, fear of making a mistake, fear of more work or fear of becoming overwhelmed.

To be successful at systemization you need to break each operation into small chunks.

If you have been in business for five years without systems in place, you are not going to completely systemize your processes in five weeks. To be successful, leaders will also need to learn to listen (we mean really listen). A place where many systemization processes fall apart is not listening.

Systemization requires listening to the people closest to the process. They’re the experts in that process. Leaders will need to communicate any new information as soon as possible. The last thing you want is for a new system to be dumped on staff without any input, explanation or warning. When

this happens, we have actually seen new organizational processes manipulated or sabotaged.

If you take a strategic approach, you will have the right people, have clear goals and be able to communicate those goals effectivity as you move through your growth phase.

Nancy Annett, MBA, CHRP and Laura Pavilonis, MBA CHRP own Flashpoint Training and Development.

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E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 5

Business & Community Tourism

otter be here -

experience the undiscovered beauty of the Otter River

by Katherine Thompson

The beauty of the Otter River in Bayham is a wellkept secret. Gently winding its way south through tree-lined ravines, the river gradually meanders down to the lakeside village of Port Burwell. When Jan Wouters, a canoe enthusiast, moved to the area three years ago she was surprised to find the scenery along the river rivaled that of what she had seen in northern Ontario.

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akers of all skill levels. The river is shallow and has a sandy bottom with few rocks. It also has lots of places to stop on the shore for breaks and picnic lunches.

It was their desire to share the beauty of the river and their love of canoeing that prompted Jan and her husband Jack to start Otter Be Here, a business that provides canoe and kayak rentals and drop off and pick up services at several points along the Otter River. Otter Be Here has three single kayaks, one tandem kayak, and five canoes available for rent. Renters can choose from several canoe runs all of varying lengths and levels of difficulty. Jan is happy to engage with renters assessing their levels of comfort and suggesting the best route to fit their needs.

Otter Be Here offers rentals seven days a week in the summer and into the fall, weather permitting. Because each canoe run takes a few hours, the last rental time available is 1:00 p.m. each day to give canoeist and kayakers the opportunity to finish their routes well before dark.

“You Otter Be Here and You Otter Come Back,” says Jan who since opening her business this year has received overwhelming support from the community.

She already has a base of loyal repeat customers who appreciate the opportunity to try out a new activity.

Jan finds that people enjoy the experience so much that they come back time after time.

For more information about Otter Be Here and a map showing the distance of each canoe run, visit www.otterbehere.com.

Marna Berry Independent LegalShield Associate Independent IDShield Associate Business Certified Group Benefit Certified 519-615-4221 marnaberry.legalshield@gmail.com

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 6

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY OUR COMMUNITY So, realistically, nesses and municipalities for their activities and it’s all about tour- promotions.”

In other words, commercialize our railway heriism and building civic pride around tage by playing up the value of the history, the arour heritage. Is tifacts and the cultural and recreational opportunities. that enough?

St. Thomas has embraced that sentiment by placMany would argue it isn’t. They ing railway heritage right in its name and branding. hold out hope for It took over 20 years, but sometimes good ideas the reintroduc- need to mature.

The official city adoption of the Railway City tion of regular passenger service branding comes at the same time as the rail organibetween Port zations the North American Railway Hall of Fame, Stanley, St. Thom- The Elgin County Railway Museum, On Track and as and London. I Iron Horse Festival are working together to condon’t see the busi- solidate under a single organization named The ness case for that. Railworks Coalition.

The community’s embrace of its rail heritage is In a country with 38 million popu- now almost complete. I believe it’s a good thing and lation and almost I predict that we’ll be pleasantly surprised when we 34 million registered vehicles, along with the bil- see just how much economic value it will bring to lions being invested in autonomous, electric ve- the city and county.

FULL DISCLOSURE: I am president of On Track hicles, I don’t see much public policy support for rail development outside our largest metropolitan and its current project, the St. Thomas Elevated Park, and I am also involved in the implementation of The areas.

There is a case, however, for localized tourism Railworks Coalition. trains, operating at lower speeds and lower costs.

The Port Stanley Terminal Rail has proven the case Serge Lavoie has a 35-year career for that. Think of it as train travel for our leisure managing associations. He is time, or as a means of connecting with our history. currently leading the St. Thomas Almost 25 years ago, a group of visionaries saw the Elevated Park project. writing on the wall when it came to understanding the true value of our railway assets in future. They formed a group called On Track Ontario: A Stronger Future Linked to Our Heritage. That catchy corporate name captures the essence of its stated objective, “to foster improvement and development of economic, cultural and recreational aspects of and Thank you to our “Detainees”! the community by en• St. Thomas Acting Police Chief Chris Herridge couraging and promoting a consistent railway • Aylmer Police Chief Andre Reymer heritage theme linked • MP Karen Vecchio to the significance of • MPP Jeff Yurek railways in local his• Ryan Dzoic, Town and Country Realty tory and to encourage • Jamie Hicks, June Rose Caldwell P.S the adoption of the • Leo Renner railway theme by local • Steve Wookey, C.E.C.I, City of St. Thomas organizations, busi• Pat Kilmer

“The Railway City” gets two thumbs up

by Serge Lavoie

At its October 16, 2017 meeting, St. Thomas City council formally adopted a new municipal name and logo. From this day forward, the community will be known as St. Thomas: The Railway City.

The merits of the new design will be debated for some time. The logo incorporates stylized visual elements that suggest a steam locomotive and a plume of steam that, viewed in a certain way, becomes the head of Jumbo the elephant.

To my eye, it is old-fashioned, retro and somewhat modern all at the same time. Love it or not, it is certainly more vibrant than the current depiction of our iconic city hall building which has served as our logo up until now.

The name change is by far the more interesting development. No longer the Corporation of the City of St. Thomas, our popular or “street” name will be streamlined and modernized, all while being firmly rooted in the railway heritage that made this community what it is today.

Significantly (and mercifully, I think) we will refer to ourselves as The Railway City, not The Railway Capital of Canada, a claim that was always hard to defend.

This is clearly a corporate identity aimed at promoting our tourism value by highlighting our rich heritage. Since scheduled passenger service abandoned our city decades ago, and we have very limited rail freight connections and no main line service, the new Railway City identity has very little to do with the industrial value of our rail assets.

Thank You to all of our Sponsors and Donators who supported our Bail or Jail Event on October 12, 13 at Geerlinks Home Hardware

• Rusty Busby, Buff N Shine Center • Al Hilder • Heather Robinson, St. Thomas Public Library • Mark Burgess, City of St. Thomas • Jeff Kohler, City of St. Thomas

Thank You to our judge:

LLarge selection of Quality P Pre-Owned Owned Vehicles

“Honourable” Director Marg Goulding

Come in and choose one today or visit our website

www.bridgeviewstthomas.ca

Special Thanks to the Board Members

1-800-222-TIPS [8477]

www.stthomascrimestoppers.ca

1207 Talbot St., St. Thomas 519-633-0240 November, 2017

We Couldn’t do it without the support of the Community ELGIN THIS MONTH

7

Celebrating 30 Y Years!

Open House

400 Talbot Street, St. Thomas Wednesday, November 22 from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Come meet the team and enjoy some refreshments!

Delivering Ontario’s Employment Services Program, Employment Services Elgin had a humble start in 1987. Originally located in one room at the YMCA, services were only available to local youth. The agency soon began offering other government funded programs, broadening their ability to assist underemployed and unemployed community residents of all ages.

With the ongoing change of programming needs, the St. Thomas office has changed locations six times before settling at 400 Talbot Street. In 1999, a satellite office in West Lorne opened, located at 160 Main Street. The West Lorne office includes a partnership of several community agencies available to residents.

Employment Ontario programs at Employment Services Elgin assists people in finding employment, training and apprenticeship.

There are a variety of free resources including job search support, resume development, employment workshops, job placements and a Resource and Information Centre that give job seekers access to computers, printers and job board.

Employment Services Elgin has a long history of employment services and community involvement in a number of programs and projects. We are proud to be able to respond to client needs by developing quality programming in a changing labour market.

Free Services

Job Search Support Direct Links to Employers

Employment Services Youth Employment Programs

160 Main Street, West Lorne 400 Talbot Street, St. Thomas (519) 768-0020 (519) 631�5470 www.employmentserviceselgin.ca eseinfo@employmentserviceselgin.ca

November, 2017

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 8

Tires • Brakes • LOF Batteries • Alignment WE SERVICE ALL MAKES AND MODELS

1012 Talbot St., St. Thomas 519-631-5080 Life is better in the Quick Lane.™

• NOVEMBER 2017 •

Everyone welcome General manager Derek Brooks welcomed organization representatives and members of the public to the Staples booth during the Chamber’s Business & Community Showcase October 18 at St. Anne’s Centre. For more pictures, see page 16.

A breakfast invitation!

If your business or organization employs 20 or more staff, we have some valuable information to share.

The St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce invites you to attend a free breakfast with Louie Di Palma, Director of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce SME Programs.

“Employment Standard and the Business Case for Creating Inclusive Workplaces” 2017 is a reporting year and businesses with 20+ staff must report to the Provincial Government on whether they implemented and are in compliance with the Employment Standard under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). The session will inform businesses what they need to do to comply and also how to file the report.

Thursday November 16, 2017; 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

EBRC Main Boardroom 300 South Edgeware Road, St. Thomas Looking for more info? Please call or email the Chamber office. Phone us at 519-631-1981 and speak with Christy Hunking at Extension 526, or Email us at: mail@stthomaschamber.ca Free Admission – Spaces are Limited – Registration Required

Co-op / intern joins Chamber staff

Business After 5

The St. Thomas & District Chamber is pleased to welcome Gabby McSloy to the Chamber staff on a coop/internship placement.

Gabby is completing her Grade 12 studies at A.V.S.S. (Arthur Voaden Secondary School) in St. Thomas, in addition to taking a partial load in media courses at Fanshawe College. She has a career ambition to work in Event Planning & Management and will complete 200 hours with the Chamber this semester. In addition to assisting us with office & administrative duties, Gabby will be present and active at Chamber events through the completion of her term with us in January.

Wednesday November 15 Co-Sponsors: RBC Royal Bank of Canada and Graham Scott Enns Chartered Accountants Site: Jennings Furniture 432 Talbot Street St. Thomas

Wednesday December 6 Co-Sponsors: Small Business Enterprise Centre and Elgin Business Resource Centre Site: St. Anne`s Centre 20 Morrison Drive St. Thomas

And the winner is …

Chamber Member Services Rep Barry Fitzgerald, left, presents Jeff Crossett of ARC Benefits Planning with his door prize at the Chamber’s Business & Community Showcase. Jeff won a new 32Gb iPad valued at $500.

Free Admission to all personnel from any organization that is a Member of the St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce.

Send Best Wishes to your Business friends in our annual Holiday edition

Business Beat Table of Contents Page 10 ............. Startup advice Page 11 .................The Makers Page 12 ............ Legal Business Page 13 ............. Agri-Net soon Page 14 ...................... Pro Text Page 15 ............ New Members Page 16 ............. What a show!

November, 2017

To take advantage of these excellent advertising opportunities (ext. 222)

Advertising Consultant

December Edition Advertising Deadline is November 17th

ELGIN THIS MONTH

9

Viewpoint

Six things you need to start a business idea and then think about what it could become.

2. A business plan Starting a business seems to be on many people’s A little over half of all businesses started fail in the minds these days. With October’s National Small first year. The leading causes of these failures are: Business Week still in recent memory, we’re sensing • Incompetence: 46 percent a lot of interest in local opportunities.

• Lack of knowledge on running a business or lack Whether it’s a personal brand that you leverage of managerial experience: 30 percent into revenue-generating ideas like a sponsored You• Lack of experiences in the area you’re working Tube channel or speaking engagements or it’s a tra- in: 11 percent ditional brick and mortar operation, many people You need a business plan for several reasons. The say entrepreneurialism is one of their goals. first, is to avoid the main causes of failure but the And for good reason. second is to cover every angle of your business. It’s With social media and digital marketing, getting easier to see shortcomings and areas where you need the word out about your business has never been more expertise. Finally, a business plan can help you easier. But how do you get to that point? What do secure financing as well. you need to start your own business?

What’s in a business plan? How do you write one?

1. An idea and a market Check with the Chamber for advice and guidance I belong to a lot of small business groups on to local services and professionals that can help.

LinkedIn and Facebook and one of the most fre- Some of them are even free! quent comments I see is, “I want to be an entre3. Financing preneur but I’m not sure what kind of business to According to a Wells Fargo poll, 77% of busistart.” Unfortunately, this is critical. You can’t just nesses are financed by the owner or founder of the want to be an entrepreneur, you must have an idea company. But if that’s not something you can do on and a market who will buy from you. your own you can look to angel investors or small Do the research. Start by thinking about what business loans. The former can feel a lot like trying activities you enjoy, then branch out to how those to get discovered in Hollywood. But there are incuskills may help you further. Maybe you love craft- bators and investor groups and conferences that can ing but don’t want to sell things on Etsy. You could help put you in touch with people looking for inwork with local nursing homes to become a free- vestments. There’s also your local chamber for netlance activities coordinator for them. Start with an working and your chamber staff who are plugged into the community and can tell you who’s looking for what. And don’t forget the Chamber’s connections of community partners such as the Small Business Enterprise Centre and the Elgin Business Resource Centre.

4. A social media presence This is one of the least expensive ways you can build your new business and it’s something We’ve got you covered. Guaranteed. you can do even if your physical space isn’t As a small business owner, you’re trying to stretch every dollar.

by Christina Green

Self-employed?

ready. Get plugged into your target market. Be out there listening. Answer questions in a helpful, not sales-y way. Look for contests and campaigns you can do on social media to build your audience. A local book store I know offers flash sales to its social media followers.

5. An email list Begin immediately collecting names for your email list. If you have a brick and mortar location, you can create a sign-up list at check-out. If not, give something of value away on your website in exchange for an email. Create a newsletter or offer exclusive discounts to those on your email list. Make it worth their while to sign-up and you’ll have a group of people you can consistently market to.

6. Support Some people won’t understand what you are doing. They won’t get the demanding work and dedication it takes to make your business a success. They won’t understand why you’re working around the clock and neglecting their social invitations. So, make sure you surround yourself with some people who do understand.

You want to find a group of like-minded entrepreneurial spirits. You can do this on LinkedIn and Facebook groups but don’t discount the power of a chamber membership. The chamber has top-notch networking events but can also help support your business needs by offering advice and information on everything from obligations you may have at City Hall or with provincial or federal legislation.

And when it comes to introductions, few organizations have the well-respected links to the community that the chamber does.

Starting a business can be a grueling undertaking.

Just like in carpentry, if you have the right tools the job can be infinitely easier. Before starting your business, ensure you take these extra steps. Doing so early on can help pave the way for business success.

Christina R. Green teaches small businesses, chambers, and associations how to connect through content.

Her articles have appeared in the Midwest Society of Association Executives’ Magazine, NTEN.org, AssociationTech, and Socialfish. She is a regular blogger at Frankjkenny.com and the Event Manager Blog.

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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.ca Website: www.stthomaschamber.on.ca President & CEO Bob Hammersley Accounting Coordinator Susan Munday Member Services Christy Hunking Member Services Barry Fitzgerald Intern/Co-Op Student Gabriele McSloy

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450 Sunset Drive, Suite 237 St. Thomas 519-637-0181

November, 2017

St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce 2017 Board of Directors Chair: Robert Furneaux Gorman-Rupp Canada 1st Vice-Chair: Ray Bosveld HollisWealth 2nd Vice-Chair: Brian Helmer Reith & Associates Insurance and Financial Treasurer: Mark Lassam, CPA, CA Lassam & Co. Past Chair: Dan Kelly, CPA, CGA Dowler-Karn Ltd. Director: Kathy Cook World Financial Group Director: Sean Dyke St. Thomas Economic Development Corp.

Fanshawe College Director: Ross Fair Director: Kevin Jackson Elgin Business Resource Centre Director: Tara McCaulley Small Business Enterprise Centre Director: Ginette Minor Alexelle Slipcovers & Décor Director: Chris Patriquin Simply Pure Water Director: Joe Preston Wendy’s Restaurant Director: Bob Ward The Auto Guys

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

Chamber News

Did you Meet The Makers?

The St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce sincerely thanks our sponsors – Royal Bank of Canada and the Local Employment Planning Council – for their help in allowing us to build an entirely new community event on October 11, focused on the people, technology and businesses that are the ‘Makers’ in our area. Big thanks, too, to the Makers who joined us at Elgin Mall with displays, and to the staff and management at Elgin Mall for providing the space!

All photos on this page by Mark Girdauskas & Spitzky Media, and by the St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce.

Commitment to Excellence Business Plans • Management Consulting Small Business Services • Bookkeeping Services Estate and Trust Returns Business Succession Planning Our Knowledgeable and Friendly Staff have the experience and training to help you with all your accounting and taxation needs

Mark Lassam, CPA, CA 115 Curtis Street, St. Thomas 519-631-1631 mark@lassam.ca November, 2017

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

Legal Business

Promises, promises: Representations and warranties by sellers

by Monty Fordham

It goes without saying that in real estate transactions the respective interests of the buyer and seller are not identical. In fact, in many cases, they may be quite opposite. From the buyer’s perspective, the more information available concerning the property being purchased the better.

But the information provided must be accurate; otherwise it is worse than useless. It is misleading. It is natural for the buyer to seek from the seller everything he/she can concerning the title and/or the condition of the property. But, once again, such material should be readily available to the seller; otherwise, to fail to provide something promised is a breach of the contract.

From the seller’s perspective, he/she wants to sell the property for the most part “as is, where is”. In other words, the seller does not want to promise any extras at all; he/she just wants to toss you the keys in exchange for money on closing. However, in the modern real estate transaction, such an expectation is unrealistic, except, perhaps, in the case of sales by mortgage companies under power of sale, or sales by estates, where the sellers do not have actual knowledge of the specifics of the property.

I have never been a fan of the Seller Property Information Statements which are provided to sellers by realtors at the time of listing their prop-

erty (although not so much anymore).

My problem is not so much with the forms themselves, but the apparent lack of care exercised by sellers in filling them out. Let me elaborate. If I asked you if the plumbing in your house was entirely composed of copper, I’m sure you would answer, “I’m not sure but I’ll check” (preferably with a plumber). If I asked you if your house was electrically wired entirely of copper, the answer would, no doubt, be the same. In other words, I’ll find out, and, if I don’t know, I’ll say so.

But sellers seemed, for a while at least, to have an irresistible urge to provide information in the vendor disclosure form which they did not possess, and had no means of obtaining. This misinformation ranged from plumbing and electrical to septic systems, municipal zoning re-

if you would guarantee that your 20-year-old kitchen stove was in good working order, after you finished laughing, you would undoubtedly refuse. Why then do sellers, in many contracts, agree to do just that? And in relation to all the appliances that are included with the deal. Why not, instead of warranting the fitness of ancient appliances which are about to die, just agree to buy the purchaser new ones?

Another of my favourite representations is “the vendor agrees to provide an existing survey, suitable for mortgage purposes.” Huh? In many cases the seller does not have anything remotely resembling a survey, let alone one suitable for mortgage purposes. Why agree to do something you don’t understand? Again, why not simply agree to buy the purchaser a new survey?

Or, better still, sellers could be more careful about what they specifically promise to provide as part of the transaction. They may not be in a position to provide representations and warranties about much, if anything at all. In most cases, the issues are far better addressed by diligence on the part of the purchaser in the form of home inspections, title and off-titles searches by a lawyer, septic and well inspections and the purchase of a survey and/or title insurance.

Making promises we can’t keep can often be costly; especially in real estate transactions.

“misinformation … may lead to a court action by the purchaser” quirements and (my personal favourite) the existence of surveys. Non-disclosure, where you simply do not know the answer, only invites the purchaser to investigate further and to satisfy himself as to the true state of affairs.

Misinformation, on the other hand, may constitute a misrepresentation of a material fact, which, in turn, may lead to a court action by the purchaser.

Another, and perhaps more serious, problem I have been encountering recently, is the insertion in agreements of purchase and sale of various representations and warranties. Once again, if I asked you November, 2017

Questions, comments and suggestions for future columns are welcomed by lawyer Monty Fordham at his office: Fordham & Brightling Associates – Lawyers, 4 Elgin Street, St. Thomas.

Telephone 519- 633-4000, Monty Fordham FAX 519-633-1371 or e-mail: montyfordham@4elgin.ca

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 12

Member News Start-ups & new business on display The Chamber’s December edition of our monthly Business After 5 will be more than just our annual pre-Holiday season gathering.

The Small Business Enterprise Centre (SBEC) and the Elgin Business Resource Centre (EBRC) will co-sponsor our event, and enable a special focus on new and start-up businesses. SBEC & EBRC will each select ten of their most promising clients who are launching and investing in a new local business. Each of the 20 businesses will be provided with a 10’ x 10’ display area at our event to tell their story and showcase their plans and products.

Wednesday December 6 we will be at St. Anne’s Centre from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.. This marks the third consecutive year that the Chamber, SBEC and EBRC have joined to present our December Business After 5 in this format. Each year, it proves to be an interesting and informative way for existing businesses to meet up-and-coming new ones, and to explore possibilities in working together.

We’re also happy to confirm we will offer everyone attending a chance at winning in our “Twelve Gifts of Christmas” door prize draws. Over $2000 worth of prizes will be won.

As with any Business After 5, admission is free and open to anyone from any business or organization that is a Member of the St. Thomas & District Chamber. Please plan to join us! Cash bar and plenty of complimentary hors d’oeuvres, too!

Agri-Net returns November 23 Agri-Net is a one-of-a-kind event designed to showcase the large agribusiness connection in and around our region.

If your business or organization is part of, or serves, the agricultural community in any way, you’re invited to participate as an exhibitor.

Agri-Net is a regional Chamber event, produced by the London Chamber of Commerce with support from the Chambers in St. Thomas, Tillsonburg & Ingersoll. It takes place at Western Fair District in London, in the Metroland Media Agriplex. The event runs on Thursday November 23, 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Exhibitor spaces are $150 plus HST and all booking/administration on this project is being handled by the London Chamber. For details or bookings, call Janie Rother at 519-432-7551 Extension 34, or email janie@londonchamber.com. And please tell them the St. Thomas & District Chamber sent you!

Grayden Laing from Laing Studios at the Business and Community Showcase in October.

Christmas in St. Thomas 22nd Annual ChristmAs in the Country “tour of homes”

Last year’s December Business After 5 brought a display opportunity for a then brand-new Forest of Flowers shop to showcase their operation. Owner Becky Bryce says the last 12 months, their first year in St. Thomas, has been excellent at their 991 Talbot Street location. Becky told us “Sales have exceed our expectations for the first year” and confirmed how much customers appreciate the cashand-carry aspect of the flower shop with plenty of ready-made arrangements on-hand all the time.

(Photo by: Spitzky Media)

100 and counting Building and construction stats compiled at St. Thomas City Hall confirmed a nice, round number at the end the end of the third quarter. At September 30, the City had issued exactly 100 more building permits than it did to the same time last year. Our 2017 total rose to 486 permits, up from 386 at September 30 in 2016.

The value of construction in the City also rose significantly from $48.8 million last year to $82.0 million this year, an increase of almost 60% Residential construction is the local pace-setter right now with 119 permits for new single-family homes on the books, along with 238 for other types of housing (semi-detached, apartments, etc.). #StThomasProud !

November, 2017

november 10th, 11th & 12th friday “Candlelight Preview” 6 pm – 9 pm saturday & sunday 10 am – 4 pm

Tickets: $17.00 in advance, $20.00 at the door For Tickets & Info call 519-633-0838

Visit “4” Lovely Homes & CASO STATION Spectacular Christmas Trees by Local Decorators Auction, Door Prizes - Buy Christmas Balls www.rotarystthomas.org

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

Pro Text

Top 10 threats to small business

Insights for small business owners & risk managers (Part 1 of 2) though you should always try to minimize potential liabiliOptimism is the fuel that drives the entrepre- ty through contingency planneurial spirit, so it isn’t surprising that most small ning and other risk managebusiness owners consider themselves optimists. Too ment techniques, as supply much optimism, however, can get a small business chains grow across the globe, owner into trouble. A business plan built solely on sometimes there is little you the “best case scenario” is like a house of cards – can do about the exposures one gust of wind (or fire or wrongful termination faced by your suppliers. In lawsuit) and the entire business can come crashing a perfect world, you could down. That is why smart business owners temper simply avoid doing business their innate optimism with a healthy dose of real- with companies that present ity. In other words, they learn to manage risk. numerous risks or that are The first step in implementing a comprehensive unwilling to conform to your standards, but pricrisk management plan is identifying potential ing constraints and niche markets limit the numrisks. To help you get started, we are launching a ber of potential suppliers to choose from. Supply two-part series to explore the top 10 threats facing chain insurance is meant to cover losses you incur small business owners. As you read through con- because of an interruption to your supply chain. sider the unique risks facing your business and ask Such coverage allows you to work confidently with yourself, whether those risks are being managed suppliers who face exposures beyond your control. effectively.

9. Contracts 10. Manage your supply chain When first starting out, many new business ownDo you rely on one or more third-party suppli- ers simply don’t have the time or expertise to aders to produce certain components used in your equately evaluate each clause in everything they’re products? If you do, a disaster that interrupts your signing. This oversight, however, can create major supplier’s regular business operations could have a problems down the road. In many cases, small crippling effect on your production abilities. Al- businesses become saddled with large additional risks, accepted through risk transfer from savvy suppliers or customers.

While it’s tempting to shave costs by skimping on legal fees, making sure your business isn’t accepting additional and unnecessary risk can save you a lot of money over the long haul, both in legal costs and in insurance coverages.

8. Employment practices From the moment you begin the pre-hirFirst Data’s trademark is ing process until the final goodbyes at the providing fast, safe and exit interview, you are cost-efficient transactions. at risk for a lawsuit. In Let us analyze your latest fact, three out of five employers will be sued statement and we will by a prospective, curmeet or beat your rent or former employee while they are in busicurrent rates. ness. Although many lawsuits are groundless, defending against them is costly and time-consuming. Your business should take a hard look For more information, contact your First Data Business Consultant at 1-888-265-4117. at whether it can afford © 2016 First Data Canada Ltd. is a registered ISO/MSP of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Canadian Branch, to defend itself against Toronto, ON, Canada. All trademarks, service marks and trade names used in this material are the accusations of wrongful property of their respective owners. employment practices.

21958 2016

by Dan Reith

Merchant Services: Right for Your Business

November, 2017

If not, there is an insurance solution called Employment Practices Liability that will protect your company against wrongful termination, discrimination (age, sex, race, disability, etc.) or sexual harassment lawsuits.

7. Environmental exposures Think of a business with significant environmental exposures. What comes to mind? Most people think of a large manufacturing, mining or petroleum operation, but these are not the only industries at risk for environmental liability losses.

It is important to perform a comprehensive risk analysis to determine your own level of exposure.

Keep in mind that because most commercial insurance policies contain pollution exclusions, unless you carry Environmental Insurance, you may be uninsured against significant environmental loss exposures.

6. Managing electronic data and computer resources Small businesses often lack a formal IT department or even rudimentary internet security measures, which leaves them vulnerable to unscrupulous cybercriminals searching for an easy target.

With an estimated liability of more than $200 per compromised record (multiplied by hundreds or thousands of customer records), the cost of a single data breach incident can be devastating for a small business. If your business stores customer records electronically, it is crucial that you have robust security measures in place. In addition to taking preventative measures to reduce Internet-based exposures, specialized technology coverage, such as Cyber Liability Insurance, can help protect your business against damage from cyber-attacks, data breaches and other Internet-based exposures.

Part 2 of this article with the top 5 threats will appear in the December issue of Business Beat here in Elgin This Month magazine.

This column appears regularly in Business Beat and has been submitted by Dan Reith, BA (Hons), CAIB, a partner and Principal Broker in Reith & Associates Insurance and Financial Services Limited, 462 Talbot Street, St. Thomas.

Dan Reith Questions and comments on this column are welcomed by the writer at 519-631-3862 or via e-mail: info@reithandassociates.com

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 14

Member News

New Members Costco Wholesale 4313 Wellington Road London, ON N6E 1M7 Phone: 519-680-1027 Email: w508mbr@costco.com Website: www.costco.ca Contacts: Kelly Worrall, Marketing Manager; Barbara Wagner, Support Representative Buyers Guide Categories: Department Store, Discount Store, Wholesaler Products & Services: Costco Canada has almost 100 locations cross-country, with the closest one at 4313 Wellington Road in the south end of London.

They focus on selling products at low prices, with high volume. These goods are usually bulk-packaged and marketed primarily to large families and businesses. Many products are featured under their house brand, Kirkland Signature. Costco Wholesale is only open to Members and their guests.

EA Associates Inc. 10 Mondamin Street St. Thomas, ON N5P 2V1 Phone: 226-667-5927 Email: aimee@eaassoc.com Website: www.eaassoc.com Contacts: Aimee Hagerty, Director of Global Operations Buyers Guide Categories: Employment Services Products & Services: EA Associates Inc. is a recruitment agency, specializing in the placement of healthcare and pharmaceutical professionals across North America.

Faith St. Thomas 345 Fairview Avenue St. Thomas, ON N5R 6M7 Phone: 519-633-0976 Email: office@faithstthomas.com Website: www.faithstthomas.com Contacts: Steve McCready, Lead Pastor; Steve Brown, Pastor of Community Engagement Buyers Guide Categories: Churches, Education Products & Services: Every week new people come to Faith St Thomas for the first time. They’re all about connecting and equipping everyone for life.

If you want to find out more about them or that journey, here is a great place to start. Church services weekly; Sundays at 10 a.m.

New Members are always welcome to attend the Chamber’s Business After 5, the best community connection event in the area. In September, the BA5 event was hosted by Reith & Associates at the St. Thomas Seniors’ Centre.

November, 2017

The St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce proudly welcomes the following businesses and individuals as our newest Members. Those listed below were accepted as registered Members to September 16 to October 15, 2017. Once an organization registers with the Chamber, all personnel (owners/managers/staff) within the organization have full access to all Chamber programs, projects, events and services.

Flynn Canada Ltd. 550 Sovereign Road London, ON N5V 4K5 Phone: 519-681-0200 Email: stephen.patti@flynncompanies.com Website: www.flynncompanies.com Contacts: Stephen Patti, Branch Manager Buyers Guide Categories: Roofing Contractors Products & Services: Based regionally at 550 Sovereign Road in London, Flynn Canada operates 28 offices across North America. They are the leading building envelope trade contractor, providing quality contracting services in the institutional, commercial, and industrial construction marketplace in five distinct, but related, business sectors: Curtain Wall & Glazing, Roofing Service, Architectural Metals, Roofing Systems and Environmental Solutions.

nutrition coaching, corporate wellness and on-site programs as well as group training, and individual personal training packages.

Swiss Chalet / Harvey’s 1014 ½ Talbot Street St. Thomas, ON N5P 1G3 Phone: 519-637-7280 Email: swiss1933@cara.com; harveys2945@cara. com Website: www.swisschalet.com; www.harveys.ca Contacts: Tom Uz, Owner, Shawn Uz, General Manager, Ebru Rahman, Manager Buyers Guide Categories: Restaurants Products & Services: Located at 1014 1/2 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, Swiss Chalet and Harvey’s are two great restaurants at one convenient location!

At Swiss Chalet, their rotisserie chicken is made fresh on premise every day. It’s slow roasted to perfection and never sees the inside of a freezer. In addition to great chicken, their menu includes slowcooked ribs, rotisserie beef, pasta, sandwiches, wraps and more!

On the Harvey’s side, delicious char-broiled burgers are made to your specifications, creating the perfect burger. Chicken burgers, veggie burgers, hot dogs and a variety of sides are also available.

Fresh Approach Fitness 34 Sanders Court St. Thomas, ON N5P 4J9 Phone: 519-207-2691 Email: sonya@freshapproachfitness.ca Website: www.freshapproachfitness.ca Contacts: Sonya Janisse, Certified Personal Trainer Buyers Guide Categories: Fitness Centres Products & Services: At Fresh Approach Fitness, they work with people who are looking to incorporate health & fitness into their busy lifestyle, but are not sure where to begin or how to fit it in. They engage clients by making fitness fun and recognizing it’s motivation and encouragement which Residents will have an opportunity to place organic keeps them going. Fresh material out in paper bags or bundles every week on Approach Fitness brings their waste collection day during this period. health and wellness to Only material set out in paper bags will be collected. you through their moMaterial placed out in plastic bags will not be collected bile services; whether it and will remain the responsibility of the property owner. is a lunchtime session Residents are still encouraged to utilize their green cart to their fullest ability. near your work location, before or after hours, Acceptable Material includes: Grass, leaves, weeds, plants and brush (no longer than at a public place such 3 feet and no thicker than 2 inches in diameter) as a park or a partnerAcceptable Set outs include: ing facility. They offer

2017 Fall Leaf and Yard Waste Collection October 24 - November 17, 2017

• Material set out in paper yard waste bags weighing no more than 45lbs.

• Bundles of brush weighing no more than 45lbs.

The Community Recycling Centre at 330 South Edgeware Road accepts leaf and yard waste from St. Thomas residents free of charge, for those who do not wish to utilize the curbside program.

For more information call

519-631-1680 ext. 4258 or go to www.stthomas.ca

*Please have all material out by 7am on your collection day.

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 15

Member News

Community show & tell!

The Chamber’s annual Business & Community Showcase is a mini trade show held each year during October’s National Small Business Week.

Our 2017 event featured over 60 exhibitors from community agencies, retail and service outlets.

Crystal Underhill EXT 234 or Janet Palmer at EXT. 226

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Contact us today for a free, no-obligation, in-home estimate:

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(519) 637-3542 st.thomas@mollymaid.ca

November, 2017

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

Remembrance Day November 11, 2017

Remembrance Day ceremonies across Elgin •SUNDAY NOVEMBER 5•

•FRIDAY NOVEMBER 10•

Southwold Keystone Complex 35921 Talbot Line Shedden Refreshments, Displays Keynote Speaker: Ted Barris Time: 9:30am

Dutton Dutton Community Centre Time: 7:00pm

Port Burwell Parade from Port Burwell Legion at 41 Wellington St. to the Cenotaph at the corner of Pitt Street and Erieus Street.

Time: 1:00pm Service: 2:00pm

Aylmer Cenotaph, Talbot St., Aylmer Time: 10:30am

Vienna Service at the Cenotaph: 11am For details contact the Port Burwell-Bayham Royal Canadian Legion at 519-874-4308 Port Stanley March across The Lift Bridge Time: 10:40am Ceremony at The Cenotaph in Veterans Park in front of the Legion at 11am

•SATURDAY NOVEMBER 11•

Springfield Springfield Cenotaph Time: 9am Rodney Rodney Library Time: 11:00am Legion marching to Library at 10:50am St. Thomas Veterans Memorial Garden Moore Street (opp. Sutherland Press bldg.)

Time: 11:00 a.m.

On

A new memorial to the Afghanistan conflict joins the other memorials in the new Veterans Memorial Garden, St. Thomas.

a r n b c e m e D m ay e R

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.

LEST WE FORGET

Royal Royal Canadian Canadian Legion, Legion, Branch Branch 41 41 24 24 John John St. St. St.Thomas St.Thomas 519-631-9840 519-631-9840

November, 2017

West Lorne Miller Park Cenotaph (Arena) Time: 10:45am

ELGIN THIS MONTH

est Lforget we

Suite 203 750 Talbot Street, St. Thomas ON N5P 1E2 Karen.Vecchio@parl.gc.ca karenvecchiomp.ca 519-637-2255 17

Remembrance Day November 11, 2017

St. Thomas Remembrance Day services at new Veterans Memorial Garden

The War Memorial at Princess and Talbot in St. Thomas honouring those who fought and died in the two World Wars and the Korean War is now located in the new Veterans Memorial Garden on Moore Street in St. Thomas.

On November 11th, take the time to Thank a Veteran

Remembrance Day services this year in St. Thomas will be held at the new Veterans Memorial Garden at 11 a.m. on November 11, with people gathering at 10:30 a.m. The new garden is located along Moore Street just south of Talbot and north of Centre Street, and east of the L&PS railway tracks.

Over 10,000 local men and women from Elgin County who answered the call in two World Wars, the Korean War and the Afghanistan conflict – and over 1,000 who never came home – are now recognized in one place, the Veterans Memorial Garden.

The project was organized by volunteers working as the Memorial Site Committee. Long-time community supporter Herb Warren is the Chairman of the group.

The Garden includes the Great War (WWI) Soldier statue and memorial, moved to its present location from St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital (STEGH). The WWII/Korean Cenotaph was moved from the former Talbot Street location on Princess Avenue half a block east to the new site. In addition, a third memorial honoring the Afghanistan conflict was added.

One factor driving the creation of a new park was the fact that the former site for Remembrance Day events at STEGH was deemed unsuitable, especially in light of the new construction on the hospital property. As required, Moore Street can be closed for events with little disruptions for traffic or businesses on Talbot Street.

The organizers set out to create a special place and invited others, through charitable donations, to salute those who served Canada. The initiative had the unanimous support of the City of St Thomas, Karen Vecchio, M.P., Jeff Yurek M.P.P., the 31CER (The Elgins) and Branch 41 of the Royal Canadian Legion.

Donations large and small allowed the memorial garden to be created.

The Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of the Province of Ontario unveiled the newly created memorial to the Afghanistan conflict during a dedication and unveiling of the new war memorials at the Veterans Memorial Garden October 28.

Vimy Ridge, Passchendaele, Juno Beach and D-Day, the Battle of the Atlantic, the Air War in Europe, Hong Kong, the Pacific War, freeing the Netherlands, the Korean Conflict, numerous Peace Keeping Missions, and most recently Afghanistan, all bring floods of memories to Canadians. The significance of the garden and its importance for families of our fallen from St. Thomas and Elgin County are primary elements now memorialized in one place.

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ELGIN THIS MONTH

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Remembrance Day November 11, 2017

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.

Memorial Site Committee members Herb Warren (left) and Allan Weatherall display a model of the new site about a year ago at the CASO Station in St. Thomas.

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.

Join us for our

Remembrance Day

Celebration

Saturday, November 11th at 11am at the new Veterans Memorial Garden on Moore Street to Honour

our Veterans

545 Talbot St., St. Thomas

519-631-1680 www.stthomas.ca

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

JEFF YUREK, MPP

ELGIN-MIDDLESEX-LONDON Office Hours:

Monday-Friday 10am-4:30pm 750 Talbot St., (CASO Station Suite 201) St. Thomas, ON N5P 1E2 519-631-0666 email: jeff.yurekco@pc.ola.org www.jeffyurekmpp.com

November, 2017

Monday-Friday 8am - 9pm, Saturday 8am - 8pm, Sunday 8am - 7pm 657 John St. N. Aylmer

ELGIN THIS MONTH

19

Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce Aylmer Glass & Mirror wins Spirit Award Congratulations to Tony and Deb Holcombe of Aylmer Glass & Mirror for being the 2017 Community Spirit Award Recipients.

Thanks to Mutual Financial Services who will donate money to the Charity of the recipients’ choice. Tony and Deb have decided to donate to the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital Foundation, and they themselves are contributing match-

ing dollars to the Optimist Toy Drive and the Aylmer Corner Cupboard. Amazing Community Spirit!

Aylmer Glass & Mirror was purchased

by Tony and Deb Holcombe in 2003, and they moved to 30 Progress Drive in 2006 to a new and larger building for their business.

Together they have worked many hours committing their time, talent and treasure to their business, staff and community.

If you were to ask them what the best part about owning their own business was, Tony would make a smart remark about the bonus of having two homes and then would say, no really, it is great to have our workplace feel like a second home. They love that when family stop in, they can have a coffee and visit. Another great benefit of business ownership is the many new friends they have gained. It’s about taking a few moments at the beginning of the day to share in the lives with their employees, co-workers and Harvey Tribe, left, (Mutual Financial Services), Tony and Deb Holcombe, Aylmer Glass & Mirror and Roxanne Husser (Mutual customers too.

Continued on page 21

Financial Services).

Elgin County’s

Largest Selection Of

Used Vehicles Over 200 used vehicles to choose from

Celebrating over 70 Years serving Aylmer & Area Helping our community live well.

ON the spOt

baNk fiNaNciNg available

USED CARS

FREE

3trial

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Family Owned & Operated for over 40 Years

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ELGIN THIS MONTH

20

Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce

Over 85 members gathered on Wednesday, October 11 at the Saxonia Hall to hear our Keynote Speaker Andrew Campbell, the Fresh Air Farmer speak. The feedback following his presentation has been extremely positive, so look to have Andrew speak again for the Chamber. Thank you to our sponsors for the opportunity to have Andrew at the AGM. Front left - Harry Broer (H. Broer Equipment Sales & Service Inc.), Heidi Weninger (President of the Chamber and H. Broer Equipment Sales & Service Inc.). Back left - Jeff Wiebenga (Showcase East Elgin Realty Inc.), Andrew Campbell, Elaine Cowan (Kindred Credit Union) and Jeneen Toth(Showcase East Elgin Realty Inc.).

Aylmer Glass & Mirror show a true love of community Continued from page 20

They appreciate their customers welcoming them into their homes, and trusting them with their renovation. That is a huge responsibility they do not take lightly and are respectful of that.

Community Responsibility has always been important to Tony and Deb. They have supported numerous organizations such as Aylmer Minor Hockey Association, Aylmer Performing Arts, Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, Crime Stoppers – Bail or Jail to get Chief Andre Reymer out of jail, East Elgin Community Complex events, East Elgin Library Reading Program and Elgin – St Thomas United Way to name a few.

They have been very involved in Elgin – St Thomas United Way, the Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce and the Economic Development Committee. Tony has always been a strong advocate for the Chamber.

He has spent many years on the Board simply because he feels so strongly about the Chamber. He is the first to credit a great deal of his success within the business community to being involved in the Chamber.

Tony and Deb love the community spirit Aylmer and Area has. They attend local events whenever they can including the Chamber’s networking lunches and socials. Knowing the people who own businesses in Aylmer truly care about customer service and customer satisfaction is what makes our area unique. The sense of community, from the winter scarves on the stair railings at the Catholic Church, the 3 Port bike tour, the motorcycle fundraisers, our town police, the way people care for one another and even the sign at the Elgin Feeds that reads, “You’re wife called. You need dog food.” The people here in Aylmer are what make this community a great place to call home for our small business.

The Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce’s Community Spirit award is about recognizing local organizations and business members that show true community spirit. It is our honour and privilege on behalf of the Aylmer Chamber and Mutual Financial Services to award Aylmer Glass & Mirror the Community Spirit Award for 2017.

November, 2017

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21

Farm Business Report A family farm showing importance and value of items produced locally Continued from page 3

Walker’s parents Jon and Linda have taken a step back from the day-to-day operation of the farm, knowing they can trust their kids to run the farm right. While major decisions still run through Jon, Walker and his siblings are in charge of everything else.

Walker started on the farm as a child, and took on a lot more responsibility once he was finished high school.

In addition to running the daily farm operations, there have been a few other significant changes for Walker. He married the love of his life Ginna in July 2016, and together they had their first child – a daughter named Gaby, in February of this year.

Having a child, Walker said, changed his perspective on farming and made him more aware of what he will be handing down to future generations.

“I still have the same goals for the business end – still want to grow and do the best job I possibly can, but now in the back of my mind I have a daughter so I want to make sure I have something for her in the future and hopefully she wants to carry on in this industry.”

One of his biggest struggles now is juggling the reality of farm life while making sure he dedicates enough time to his family. Before his daughter came along, he spent most of his time working;

now he strives to find a work/home balance that will allow him to enjoy watching his young daughter grow up.

Over the course of his farm career, Walker has seen many changes in the industry, and while innovation has made his life a little easier, it still takes work to get things accomplished, he said.

When he’s not on the farm, Walker and his siblings can be found volunteering their time with events like the Aylmer Fair. When they were younger all the children were involved in the 4-H club and would show cattle around Time for a little hand-feeding by John and Scott Walker. the province. It’s his hope when Gaby “Oh it’ll definitely impact us – cost more for us is old enough she will join the program to get the cows milked, but we’re already paying too.

“I would love to see her in 4-H because it’s a our labour better than minimum wage. We have great program and I met a lot of people I never help through the Temporary Foreign Worker prowould’ve known otherwise,” he said. “With pro- gram and some of those guys have been with us for grams like 4-H, you gain an extra respect for the years so they deserve better pay.”

The Walkers sell the 12-million litres of milk calves you work with. Now those kids I went to 4-H with are taking over their family farms so they produce a year through a quota system (supply management) which is designed to keep farmthose connections were important.”

When it comes to pressing farm issues like the ers from over-producing and provides Walker raise in minimum wage he’s not too worried, as Family Farms enough money so they can maintain their farm already pays workers well above the the farm and add extras for what Walker calls cow comfort. minimum.

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Farm Business Report When the weather turned fair, it was time to get the combines rolling in October in Elgin.

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Christmas is the next big season for turkey farmers in Elgin, including the Oegema family farm near Talbotville.

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Farm Business Report Elgin Federation of Agriculture a rural voice

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) represents the voice of Ontario’s farm families. OFA works with our 52 County Federations across Ontario, all levels of government, commodity and rural groups to meet the needs of 38,000 members province-wide.

The Elgin Federation of Agriculture (EFA) is a member-based county affiliate of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture, one of Ontario’s general farm organizations. The general purpose of the EFA is to lobby to improve the economic and social wellbeing of farmers in Elgin County, provide members with information on agricultural issues and to increase public awareness of agriculture and the food system.

The Elgin Federation undertakes a variety of

activities throughout the year to promote and support agriculture.

Each summer, EFA organizes a Waste Oil Recycling Day for producers to dispose of used motor oil.

The Elgin Federation of Agriculture supports the Buy Local Buy Fresh campaign that includes the pamphlet which lists producers, products and where consumers can locate them. Supporting your local farmer supports your local economy.

The EFA has a long-standing tradition of hosting All Candidates meeting before each Federal and Provincial election in order to provide our members with an opportunity to address agricultural issues.

The organization partners in an annual scholarship. The Elgin County/ Kettle Creek Agricultural Conservation Scholarship was created by Elgin County Junior Farmers Alumni, Elgin Federation of Agriculture and the Kettle Creek Conservation Authority. The scholarship fund is administered by the Kettle Creek Conservation Trust.

DIVISION OF #364230 ONT. LTD. Every year $500 or 75% of the annual interest from the scholarship fund, whichever is greater, is awarded based upon the selection criteria.

Who is eligible? Elgin County or Kettle Creek watershed residents, between the ages of 17 and 30 who are entering or currently pursuing agriculturallyrelated studies with an emphasis on compatibility with the natural environment at a postsecondary institution are eligible to apply.

An application form can be acquired by contacting the Elgin Federation of Agriculture (519) 633-0114 or the Kettle Creek Conservation Trust (519) 631-1270.

On its website, EFA also publicizes other local agricultural and environmental scholarships.

Plowing Match Scholarship - The County of Elgin and representatives from the 2010 International Plowing Match award a scholarship of $2,500 to one female and one male from Elgin County who are studying in an agriculturally-related program. Further information, and application form is available on the County’s homepage at www.elgincounty.ca.

Leighton & Betty Brown Conservation Scholarship - Students living in the Long Point Region Watershed are invited to apply for one of three $1000 scholarships. For more details, please visit: lprca.on.ca/newsrel.htm.

William Kingsley Erickson Bursary Graduating secondary school students living in the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority watershed, in Southwold, Dutton/Dunwich or West Elgin are eligible to apply for this bursary. Details at lowerthames-conservation.on.ca.

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Farm Business Report Farm-to-table is changing the restaurant business

Farm-to-table is a movement that promotes serving local products, preferably food and beverages acquired directly from a producer. Farm-totable eateries source ingredients locally as much as possible, and diners are increasingly expressing a preference for these establishments.

According to the National Restaurant Association’s “What’s Hot in 2015” survey, locally sourced meats and seafood, locally grown produce, environmental sustainability, and natural ingredients/ minimally processed foods were among the most

popular food trends.

Farm-to-table establishments reduce carbon footprints by cutting back on the amount of resources necessary to get food from the farm to the restaurant.

According to the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, the province has invested more than $180 million since 2003 in initiatives and projects that help promote and celebrate the good things that are grown, harvested and made in Ontario.

The Ontario government has consulted with farmers, processors, consumers, retailers, foodservice providers and not-for-profit organizations to discuss local food opportunities and challenges.

Based on those consultations, the province developed a multipronged local food strategy, with a clear vision, mission and goals focused on increasing the consumption of local food by bringing more local food to the places where Ontarians shop and eat.

Through a number of ongoing activities, including the Local Food Act, 2013, the government is

aiming to: increase consumer awareness and education, improve access to local food, and ensure that there is sufficient supply to meet demand.

Supporting farm-to-table establishments can benefit the planet, but consumers should know that there are additional advantages to patronizing such businesses.

Support for local businesses: Local restaurateurs who embrace farm-to-table can support and promote other local operations. Restaurants can help farmers by purchasing excess crops or simply providing the demand for farmers’ products.

Greater control over ingredients: In some instances, chefs can travel to nearby farms during harvest to personally select items for their restaurants, ensuring excellent quality.

Better taste and quality: Fresh food is picked at its peak instead of being forced to ripen during a long journey. This typically translates to more flavorful foods.

Evolving and updated menus: Because farm-totable means sourcing in-season ingredients, restaurants must have fluid menus that change based on the availability of ingredients and fishing and harvesting quotas. This can lead to greater variety and prevent menus from becoming dated or overly familiar.

Hyper-local sourcing that fuels farm-to-table operations continues to be an in-demand restaurant trend, and such establishments can benefit both the environment and the local economy.

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Farm Business Report Agriculture in the schools Ontario is continuing to support agri-food literacy in elementary and high schools to educate students on topics such as local food and farm innovation, and to highlight career opportunities in the growing agri-food sector.

The province is continuing its partnership with AgScape, an organization dedicated to increasing agri-food literacy in Ontario, which delivers agri-food literacy programming in classrooms across the province. Students learn about food production in Ontario, the links between food, farming and health, and how to get involved and build a successful career in the agri-food industry.

This year, Ontario is also: -Expanding the AgScape Teacher Ambassador Program so that more students can access programming.

-Developing additional resources to make it easier for teachers to incorporate learning about agriculture and food in the classroom -Hosting Agri-Career Competitions to inspire more youth to pursue careers in agriculture.

-Creating an interactive game that teaches students about how Ontario food gets from farm to table.

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tion, processing and distribution are key economic drivers in Ontario, providing many career opportunities.

Ontario’s solid legacy of local food production is only sustainable by engaging the next generation to explore these careers,” said Colleen Smith, Executive Director at AgScape.

Over the next three years, Ontario will provide $1.2 million to AgScape. As part of the province’s three-year $1.2 million commitment, AgScape will expand its Teacher Ambassador Program, deliver its Agri-Trekking Across Ontario interactive game, host learning events such as Agri-Career Competitions and develop curriculum-linked learning resources.

Ontario’s agri-food sector supports nearly 807,000 jobs and contributes more than $37.6 billion towards the province’s Gross Domestic Product.

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“Our government recognizes how vital Ontario’s agri-food sector is to the well-being of our economy and province,” said Jeff Leal, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “As our sector continues to grow, so do the diverse career opportunities available for our youth to explore.

Our government is proud to support organizations like AgScape who are helping equip our students with the skills they need to become Ontario’s next generation of leaders in agriculture.”

26

Farm Business Report 4-H clubs serve rural Elgin youth

Making a case for growing new crops from the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) Ontario farmers who are thinking about growing a non-traditional crop have a valuable new tool to assess whether it’s a profitable idea. Making a Case for Growing New Crops is an online learning resource recently developed by the Agri-Food Management Institute (AMI) to help farmers engage in business planning before planting.

Ashley Honsberger, Executive Director of AMI, says farmers are increasingly looking at non-traditional crops to meet new customer preferences, realize higher value per acre, or for crop rotation and other environmental benefits.

The resource was developed in partnership with the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), who surveyed members earlier this year to gauge interest in growing new crops, as well as the best method of delivering information.

Making a Case for Growing New Crops, in the Resources for Farmers section of www. takeanewapproach.ca, features five interactive

modules that users work through on their own schedule to develop a business case for diversifying their farm. Through a series of videos and worksheets, users can determine whether the crop is an agronomic fit, identify customers and markets, analyze their cost of production and develop a budget.

Of the 402 farmers responding to the online survey about new crops, about 20 per cent had tried a new crop in the past five years. For growers who had not introduced a new crop in the last five years, 7 per cent plan to in the next two years, 49 per cent do not plan to, and 44 per cent were undecided.

Everywhere in the world, 4-H is based on a “Learn To Do By Doing” philosophy. At its core, 4-H is a organization of leaders building leaders.

The four Hs stand for head, heart, hands and health. In Ontario, 4-H members aged 9–21 come together with volunteer leaders to create a 4-H club, where members learn about a selected topic through hands-on activities and mentorship.

4-H emphasizes the importance of looking at the big picture, encouraging youth to see beyond themselves and focus on how their actions affect their relationships, their community, the environment and society as a whole.

Elgin 4-H is now collecting household batteries with the assistance of the Mutual Insurance office in Elgin. Please take your batteries to West Elgin Mutual Insurance offices in Dutton, Rodney, Shedden or Aylmer, or Yarmouth Mutual Insurance, Talbot Street East, St. Thomas, or Westminster Mutual Insurance on Belmont Road, Belmont.

Proceeds from the batteries will help fund Elgin 4-H activities.

For more on local 4-H Clubs, visit elginfarmers.ca.

Meet our Agriculture Services Team We know that farming is more than a business – it’s a way of life. We are committed to serving Canada’s farm communities by providing flexible financial solutions that let you get on with the business of farming. We’ll take the time necessary to understand your unique needs. Together we can meet today’s challenges and anticipate tomorrow’s opportunities.

Scott MacKinnon Account Manager, Agriculture Services Elgin County 226-268-5236 scott.mackinnon@td.com

Wilhelmina Waters District Manager, Agriculture Services Great Lakes District 519-784-2059 wilhelmina.waters@td.com

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Farm Business Report Advantages and disadvantages of incorporation Edited from an OMAFRA Fact Sheet In Ontario, the number of farm businesses that are incorporated has been growing steadily as farm businesses become larger. An Ontario Ministry of Agriculture Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA) Factsheet, available online at the Ministry website, helps farm business owners to understand the corporate structure and to decide if incorporation makes sense for their farm business.

A corporation is a separate legal entity, which means it can do anything a person can. It can: - carry on business - buy, own and sell assets - hold mortgages and have debt - file income tax returns - rent land or other assets from you - rent assets to you - enter into contracts There are both advantages and disadvantages to the corporate business structure. Farm businesses should consider not just the tax advantages, although these are often the main reason for considering incorporation.

Deferring Tax - An important point to understand is that much of the tax advantage of incorporation is from deferral of tax. This means that

at some point in the future, when the money is removed from the corporation, tax will have to be paid. However, the longer the deferral the greater the advantage. If the business is not expected to continue beyond a 5-year time horizon then the cost of incorporating may not make sense.

Repayment of Debt - Savings from deferred tax can be used to finance the ongoing operations of the business. If this additional cash can be used to repay debt in a shorter timeframe then there is a true savings on interest paid. This is why it is desirable to have the corporation hold as much of the farm business debt as is practical.

Maximize Personal Tax Credits - Corporate structures can allow personal tax credits of shareholders to be maximized. This is especially advantageous where shareholders have young children. Salary paid to the parents can be kept at a level that maximizes the child tax benefit and other credits.

A mix of advantages and disadvantages need to be considered.

Tax advantage - The corporate tax rate is lower than the highest personal rates so there is a tax deferral on money that is left inside the corporation. The longer you defer the payment of taxes the greater the advantage. There is also the op-

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portunity to maximize shareholders personal credits.

Complexity - The structure is more complex and requires more professional advice.

Possible faster repayment of debt - Because the corporation is taxed at a lower rate it can pay off the debt faster than the individual who is making the payments with after-tax dollars paid at a higher personal rate.

Loss of capital gain exemption - A corporation does not have a capital gains exemption.

Liability - There are some advantages to be gained from the limited liability; however, most lenders require personal guarantees so the individual remains liable for the corporate debts.

Initial and ongoing costs - Since the corporation must also file tax statements in addition to the shareholder the ongoing costs are usually higher.

Perpetual succession - A corporation has a perpetual existence that can allow for a smooth transfer between generations over a period of time.

Loss of personal tax benefits - If land is placed inside the corporation there is a potential loss of the capital gains exemption on the principal residence Continued on page 29

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Farm Business Report A corporation can introduce some complexity Continued from page 28

gered as assets are transferred to the corporation and the capital gains exemption utilized to offset the gain. This is sometimes referred to as crystallizing the capital gain.

While the exemption is an important tax benefit, it should not be the sole reason to incorporate. Corporations do not have any capital gains exemption available to them so the future capital gains on the sale of an asset by the corporation will be taxed in the corporation. 50% of the gain is still tax-free for the corporation and that portion can be distributed to the shareholders on a tax-free basis.

Flexibility - The structure is highly flexible in terms of assets owned and payment of shareholders.

Capital gains exemption utilization - The personal capital gains exemption can be utilized on transferring assets into the corporation and is available on the sale of the shares of the corporation.

A corporate structure may be beneficial from a tax perspective but it can also introduce more complexity than the business owners want. Business owners should determine if they are comfortable with: learning new terminology such as shareholder loans, dividends, common and preferred shares; no longer directly owning all the assets of the business; keeping personal financial affairs separate from the corporation: and, depending more on advisors for dealing with the tax and technical issues of the business.

Rob A corporation may provide some Foster limit to legal and financial liability. If C.P.A., C.A. the corporation fails to pay its debts, a creditor will pursue the corporation’s assets offered as security. However, if the corporation does not own enough assets to satisfy lenders security requirements they will often require shareholders to personally guarantee corporate loans, which means that the lender can pursue their personal assets. If no guarantee is in place then personal assets are protected.

In the case of a lawsuit for damages the corporation is sued and not the shareholders. Liability insurance can protect against such a claim. However, the corporation may not provide complete protection from legal liabilBoth Rob Foster and Bill Luyks grew up on the farm and continue to ity. There are cases where the courts have held shareholder executives perfarm today. They really do know your business from the ground up. sonally liable for the actions of the corporation.

Graham Scott Enns LLP has been assisting clients for over 40 In 2015, the capital gains exemption was increased from $824,176 years, and we have grown to having 10 Partners and 30 staff in (up to $813,600 due to indexour two offices. Rob is a Partner in our St. Thomas office, Bill is ing), plus an additional exemption amount of $175,824, bringing the a Partner in our Aylmer office. Give them a call today for all your total lifetime capital gains exempaccounting, taxation, succession and estate planning needs. tion to $1,000,000 for dispositions occurring after April 20, 2015. The $1,000,000 capital gains exemption is available to individuals on the sale of qualified farm property. Anyone who had used the entire $100,000 general exemption, when it was eliminated in 1994, has $900,000 remaining.

Aylmer Office · 25 John Street S. · 519-773-9265 Concern about the elimination of St. Thomas Office · 450 Sunset Drive · 519-633-0700 the capital gains exemption motivates some to consider incorporation. This www.grahamscottenns.com is because a capital gain can be trig-

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Farm Business Report A looming problem

in wine media –

SCORING

principle, the score is a subjective measurement There used to be an adage in the wine business by the reviewer, is generthat if you got a score from the Wine Spectator ally anchored by known magazine higher than a 90, you couldn’t keep the wines, and is specific to wine on the shelves. If your score was lower than 90, the style of wine. The idea you couldn’t sell the wine. The reality of the mod- is that the reviewer offers ern wine industry is that there are so many choices a consistent sense of taste, for consumers that having some type of third-party and has tried enough wines to place this wine on validation, like scores, reviews, awards, or recom- the spectrum. Iconic wines score near the top. A mendations are essential.

90-point Cabernet Sauvignon is not the same levIn last month’s article I discussed getting your el of intensity as a 90-point Pinot Noir – they are message out as a producer when there are so many different styles. The score merely says that they are stories. This month will tackle a problem that comes both worth considering. in an environment where there are too many storyReviewers walk a very fine line. They know that if tellers vying for exposure and the looming problem they want to become more successful in the induson the horizon for the media surrounding wine. try, their reviews need to be used by the trade, and Little bit of history; the 100-point rating scale has disseminated. If they write a bad review, odds are the only been used for about 50 years now in North winery and trade won’t use it. Additionally, a critic America. The English have traditionally used a who is seen as being unduly negative is passively 20-point scale. The rationale behind assigning a shut out of tastings, or the victim of misplaced innumber is that it vastly simplifies a complex wine vitations. They certainly aren’t sent complimentary into something comprehensible for consumers. In wines to review, and the cost of having to buy the wines outright doesn’t always work on a freelance writer’s budget.

Conversely, a writer or critic that is seen as too effusive may find that while their reviews are used to sell to the general public, within the business they aren’t trusted to offer honest reviews and they’re Kee, Perry & DeVrieze seen as being shills for offers a full range of public accounting services select brands. It basifor your Farm Business. cally comes down to the perception of having integrity.

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saturated wine media landscape, reviewers are inching their scores up very slowly over a period of years.

95 is the new 90. The rationale is that if the creeping up happens slow enough no one will notice, and if the reviewers’ scores are higher, they get used by the trade to help sell the product, without shilling and losing their integrity. Their job security depends on finding the balance.

The creeping score problem is getting so bad that several of the most prominent wine writers and critics in Canada and around the world are trying to organize themselves into a collective or pact that effectively recalibrates and resets the scoring system.

It used to be the case that a 100-point wine was a once-a-decade event. Now it’s a twice-a-year kind of event.

I’m watching this evolution with keen interest.

There is an obvious barrier up ahead. A wine can’t be scored better than perfect, right? But at the same time, I doubt that there is the real clout or will to stop the score inflation. After all – the people whose livelihood is most affected by the inflation, are the ones largely responsible for policing it. This is game theory and the Nash equilibrium playing out. Time will tell whether the wine media can reign in its creeping score inflation.

Jamie Quai is head winemaker at Quai du Vin Estate Winery in Elgin County, and was 2016 Ontario Grape King.

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Farm Business Report

BARN CAT LOVE

Ask anyone who spent any time around a barn as a child, and the stories will inevitably include kittens. This family’s farm dad has a treasured childhood photo featuring him carting kittens around in a steel bucket, and this farm mom recalls spending many Saturday mornings scouting for new litters in dark and cozy corners of the dairy barn. This led to trouble one day when I was caught for designing a trail comprised of a great amount of kibble, milk cartons and other obstacles.

We’ve always had a house cat with what we call “in and out” privileges, but the kids always clamored for more. While we have no desire for any more creatures in our house, we no longer have sheep and were looking for working cats, to serve on mousing duty around the farm. A little pair found their way into the truck one day after a visit to the grain elevator, intended to be working cats.

Of course, the kids were more than willing to do kitten chores, providing food and water and visiting them in the barn to ensure they would not grow wild and run off. Soon the pair, presumed to be sister and brother, were named Kitty and Jeff by our boys. Younger sister was not pleased, but the boys being older, had decided they had first dibs on determining the sex and name of the cats.

Before long the cats had decided that attention was more plentiful on the porch of our home than in the old milk house. We would spot the two tab-

bies lolling about on the railing, sunning themselves and looking for kid cuddles and a sprint into the house at every opportunity. Soon enough (sooner than expected!) both Kitty and Jeff were growing up and we noticed a Tom cat visiting. It wasn’t long before we realized that both siblings were indeed sisters, and new litters were imminent.

Birthing day came earlier for Jeff, and started when we were out. In new-age fashion we were notified by a photo sent from our son’s Ipod. They had a great education in being midwives and got busy making plans for naming the newcomers. We soon ushered the new mother cat and litter to a comfortable spot in the shed, and counted down the days until the next litter.

One week later, Lots of Christmas Kitty started making a fuss on the porch.

It was getting close to bus time but our priority was finding a better location. She jumped up to the railing to escape our curi-

ous dog, but in that same motion the first kitten made its appearance mid-air, and landed on the porch. We moved quickly to hold back the dog, and scooped up the kitten and still-labouring mom into a cat carrier before there would be any more commotion.

Outside they went to the shed to join their cousins, now 11 in all. Within a matter of minutes, we realized this was going to be a team effort; as the moms didn’t distinguish between the weekold or day-old kittens. Everyone was being fed in a wriggling pile of warm fur, and the moms each got a break.

The matter of finding a work force to control the mice has been resolved, but the next dilemma is how many will stay. Daddy has been asked to consider letting each of our three keep their top kitten from each litter! I considered offering them in lieu of loot bags at upcoming birthday parties, but the parents I have polled would prefer we not explore this option.

It remains to be seen how many cats will remain here, but this time we will be keeping a closer watch on the calendar to book a visit with the veterinarian before a new generation gets underway.

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

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www.elginfeeds.com 31

Farm Business Report Beef cattle’s adjustment to cold weather

Edited from OMAFRA’s website

cattle adapt naturally to cooling temperatures is a good strategy which reduces overall stress on the Cattle housed in a warm barn are not stimulated animals. to grow a thick winter coat. If these cattle are sudAs temperatures drop, cattle respond by increasdenly moved out into cold temperatures, they will ing their resting metabolic rate. Of course, producquickly get chilled and show signs of discomfort ing heat requires fuel. For cattle, the fuel required by bawling and roaming restlessly. If left in the is supplied by feed energy or from burning stored cold environment, these cattle will respond by body fat. For each 1 degree Celsius decline in temgrowing a winter coat in a few weeks. But letting perature below their lower critical temperature, cattle require an additional 2% energy in the diet, i.e., either an increase in feed, or the energy density of the diet must be increased.

Heat loss may also be affected by wind chill.

Millions of air molecules each pulling away a small amount of heat add to significant heat loss. Air movement also disrupts the cow’s boundary layer, a thin layer of still air which AYLMER ST.THOMAS PORT STANLEY TILLSONBURG STRAFFORDVILLE surrounds objects and 75 Talbot Street East 581 Talbot Street 289 Bridge Street 128 Broadway 9254 Plank Road acts as an insulating 226-667-4921 layer. The first 10 kilowww.hwcinsurance.ca info@hwcinsurance.ca meters per hours (kph) of wind speed (from 0 to 10 kph) has a greater effect than going from, say, 30 to 40 kph, due to the initial loss of the boundary layer.

Since cattle spend a 519-269-3364 • r.r. #1, springfield • 519-269-3995 great deal of time at feeders, placing feeders • domestic • commercial • industrial • farm in areas sheltered from the wind is important. Cattle will then consume more feed, which is beneficial for both growing cattle on high energy diets and wintering cows on base

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quality roughages.

Interestingly, an open front barn can feel colder on a moderately windy day than being outside in the yard. If you see cattle crowding into the corners of the barn on a windy day, or staying totally outside, they are telling you that the main barn areas are not comfortable. You need to consider some additional wind control structures.

Moisture also plays a role in heat loss. If the air spaces in the hair coat are filled with moisture, heat loss increases dramatically. So if an animal’s hair coat is wetted by rain outdoors, or condensation drip in the barn, its insulating value plummets, and heat loss is rapid. Similarly, mud or manure glued onto the hair coat compresses it, squeezing out most air pockets and filling the rest with conductive material. With wet cattle, the need for extra feed energy to compensate for cold stress increases to 4% for each degree Celsius temperature drop below their lower critical temperature.

The key is to keep cattle clean prior to freeze up.

Fresh paddocks, concrete yards and bedded packs go a long way to maintaining clean hides. After freeze up, mud becomes much less of a problem, and rain turns to snow, which has much less wetting power. As air temperatures drop, snow becomes drier and a better insulator. If cattle have a relatively large area with good snow cover, they can lie down comfortably without bedding. If the weather goes through freeze and thaw cycles, some bedding may still be required.

1091 Talbot Street, St. Thomas (Beside Braxtons)

ELGIN THIS MONTH

519-633-6687 32

Farm Business Report Safety measures for winter drivers Winter weather causes many people to retreat indoors until the spring thaw. However, for those who embrace the cooler temperatures or find that life must go on despite snow and ice, taking inventory of their vehicles is a must before the first snowflakes start to fall.

Tire care is an especially important area of vehicle maintenance. The tire experts at Michelin say that regular tires may be ineffective for winter driving. Summer tires are made from materials that are optimized for warm conditions.

When the mercury drops, these same materials can harden, reducing their ability to grip the road. That lack of traction can be compounded by the presence of snow or ice. Even allseason tires, which are designed to be driven year-round, can be insufficient in severe weather conditions. Winter tires can help drivers safely navigate winter roadways.

Bridgestone Tires says that having

Opportunity.

We grow that too.

We look forward to offering you the value that has been our hallmark for 80 years. We’re excited to expand into Elgin County and we look forward to receiving your grain.

Grain Receiving | Drying | Storage | Off-Farm Trucking Hensall Co-op Aylmer | 519-773-5169

the right snow tires matters when driving in winter weather conditions. It’s important to look for tires that can disperse water sufficiently and also grip the road. Snow tires are designed to remain softer and more flexible to conform to the road better in cold conditions.

Some winter tires are even studded to provide better traction and may be legal in northern Canada.

Unfortunately, even the best winter tires cannot provide perfect traction on slippery roadways. That is why it is essential – in conjunction with the use of winter tires – to modify driving techniques to navigate safely.

DRIVE SLOWLY. Slow down on winter roads. Allow a greater distance for stopping than for dry conditions. Slippery conditions can make it more challenging to stop, and excessive speeds can make the situation worse.

SHIFT INTO LOW GEAR. On hills, rely on low

gears to maximize traction to travel up and down hills. This can minimize skids or sliding.

Get the vehicle a tune-up. In addition to tires, be sure the braking system, battery and other major components of the vehicle are in good working order.

www.hdc.on.ca

Kingsmill Grain is now Hensall Co-op Aylmer

REPLACE WINDSHIELD WIPERS. Reduced

visibility can compromise the safety of drivers and their passengers. Replace windshield wiper blades before winter arrives.

Consider purchasing winter-rated windshield blades.

KNOW HOW TO RECOVER FROM A SKID.

Hensall Co-op Aylmer

47228 Ron McNeil Line, RR#7 Aylmer

Aylmer November, 2017

ELGIN THIS MONTH

When skids occur on black ice or slush, drivers should take their feet off of the pedals and steer gently in the direction they want to go.

As the vehicle regains traction, only then should the brakes or accelerator be applied.

Winter weather requires making some vehicle modifications, and drivers may want to alter the way they drive to be safer on the road.

33

Homestyle Decorating Consult with a professional first to make sure a conversion plan is even possible. My attic will forever be limited storage area only as it cannot fit the required criteria to become anything more. Basically, you need easy access into the space, the ceiling height needs to be more than ample enough to stand up, the floor must be able to support the weight, proper temperature regulation is required, and natural light is always helpful. But, if you are a candidate for extending your living space by vertically going up, below are a few of my favourite attic ideas discovered along the way that may translate to your own personal gem.

An attic that runs the full length of the house with tall slanted ceilings can make an amazing master suite. A bed with a minimal headboard can easily tuck beneath the eaves. Convert one end wall of the long space into all windows and build cabinets along either side of the window for storage. Add a window seat filled with pillows beneath the window with storage beneath the seat. The window makes the room look brighter and adds significant storage, replacing the need for additional free-standing pieces.

Ample room still can remain to create a setting area with potentially a fireplace at the opposite end of the room. Even an office area can sometimes be worked

Your attic could be

a hidden gem

by Renée Carpenter Is your attic a hidden gem waiting to become the coolest room in the house, or is it a gloomy spot where a possible gem could be hiding amongst the junk piled within it? Most often we think of attics as nothing more than a place to store clutter, or just wasted space. Attics can actually be a prime location for one of two things: either organizing or lounging. Converting attics into finished rooms can be the least expensive way to find additional living space.

Although attics can present design challenges due to ceiling pitches and slants, ductwork, or weird shapes, with some thought and planning, they could be utilized without adding on square footage.

into this space, depending on the size of the attic.

Create a walk-out balcony to one side with French doors and a small. Just imagine! Space that would have otherwise been cobwebs and dust becomes useful and beautiful.

I love the idea of playrooms above. Paint the walls bright and cheerful. Create built-in shelving units for games and toys. If the ceiling is high enough, a loft can be loads of fun. You can leave the toy mess and no one will ever see it. Imagine the childhood memories in later years that can be told of tea parties and dollhouses, or nerf gun shoot-outs, slumber parties, and on in their own little secret hide-away.

Depending on the length of your long attic space, this upper room can be divided into multiuse mini rooms. Home offices, hobby/craft rooms, artist galleries, writing studios, reading nooks, TV rooms, and even a guest bedroom can fit together nicely in smaller, mini room spaces.

I’ve seen attics converted into extra full bathrooms.

Skylights and white walls can lighten and brighten the space into elegance and make it feel big and luxurious. Attic dormers are another way to bring in more sunlight if skylights aren’t an option. Wouldn’t it be nice if by chance there could be a little exposed brick available to add a punch of texture to the space! Or maybe even an exposed chimney – or two?

Renée Carpenter owns Jennings Furniture and Design in St. Thomas.

She can be reached at renee@jenningsfurniture.com.

Commitment to exCellenCe

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.

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.

You need the right solutions to meet your goals and protect the business you’ve worked so hard to build.

Together we can find the right solution for you and your business. Let’s talk about Money for Life.

Michael Moore*

Tel: 519-637-7747 michael.moore@sunlife.com www.sunlife.ca/michael.moore 9 Princess Avenue, Unit #3 St. Thomas, ON N5R 3V3

Mark Lassam, CPA, CA 115 Curtis Street, St. Thomas 519-631-1631 mark@lassam.ca November, 2017

Life’s brighter under the sun *Mutual funds offered by Sun Life Financial Investment Services (Canada) Inc. Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada is a member of the Sun Life Financial group of companies. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2015.

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 34

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY FINANCIAL PLANNING

Making a difference with charitable giving

by Ellen Luft

For many, charitable giving is a way to share some of the wealth accumulated over time or through sound investment planning. And while there is no wrong way to give to charity, there are ways to make your financial support more effective. One of these ways is through the receipt of a charitable tax credit as a result of eligible donations of cash, goods, land, or listed securities to a registered charity or other qualified gift recipients.

Charitable Tax Credit The charitable tax credit is a non-refundable tax credit that can be used to reduce the amount of tax you owe. In most cases, the total of your claimed charitable donations cannot be more than 75% of your net income in any one year. For gifts of certified cultural property or ecologically sensitive land, you may be able to claim up to 100% of your net income. (Source CRA Website) Property Eligible donations of property may include cash, life insurance and securities, cottages, land, buildings and equipment used in a business or rental operation; ecologically sensitive land; certified cultural property; collectable personal-use property (such as art, jewelry, stamps, coins).

Securities Property can also include gifts of eligible securities. If you donate securities (such as stocks or bonds) you will receive a tax credit for the This information has been prepared by Ellen Luft who is an Investment Advisor for HollisWealth®.

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the Investment Advisor only and do not necessarily reflect those of HollisWealth.

HollisWealth® is a division of Industrial Alliance Securities Inc., a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada. The information contained in this article comes from sources we believe reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any of the securities mentioned.

The information contained herein may not apply to all types of investors. The Investment Advisor can open accounts only in the provinces in which they are registered. Insurance products provided through Hollis Insurance Inc. For more information about HollisWealth, please consult the official website at www. holliswealth.com November, 2017

fair market value of the donation. You do not have to pay capital gains tax on any increase in value from when you bought the security to when you donate it. This is clearly preferable to selling the security and donating the cash.

Funding a Charitable Bequest You may wish to remember a charity through

the payment of a cash legacy at the time of your death. It is possible to fund the gift in advance through the purchase of a life insurance policy.

Funding a charitable bequest with a life insurance policy can be structured so that you receive a current charitable tax credit or a charitable tax credit available upon death.

Is your website an antique on the information super highway?

Everyone knows their business no matter how big or small needs a great website. But did you know your site has to be mobile friendly? Almost half of those on the internet in Canada are on a mobile device and if your website is not mobile friendly your potential customer is moving on to one that is!

The Weekly News team can assist you in achieving WEB SUCCESS! We can help you develop a new website that is attractive, highly functional and will help drive your business!! And the investment is less then you probably think.

Give us a call today at 519-633-1640 x227 or email geoff@theweeklynews.ca and let’s get your business on the express ramp to the information super highway!

ELGIN THIS MONTH

35

Modern Marketing The Connection Economy

Five things you can do to get started on Twitter

by Amanda DeVries Most people unfamiliar with Twitter shudder when I mention it. It’s a scary thing; the little tweet button that, once clicked, will send your thoughts to … a void? Judgmental audience? Viral post?

How do you even know what to say that’s worthy of some stranger’s attention?

I had the same trepidation when I first started back in 2012. I certainly wasn’t an early adopter — the Twitterverse was already well alive and kicking. How could I be sure I had anything to offer that hadn’t already been said? A few months before joining I was browsing the marketing section in the St. Thomas library and a title caught my eye: The UnMarketing Book by Scott Stratten.

I took it home and learned from just about the best there is in the Twitter business. Scott Stratten is a Canadian who jumped on the bandwagon in its early days and quickly realized the advantages that Twitter can bring any business, in any industry.

Instead of paying huge sums of money for focus groups or consumer data, each and every company has its customers’ opinions at its fingertips. Rather than cringing when you get your first customer complaint on Twitter, why not take advantage of this direct message about how you and your company are viewed by the public? Particularly the public who cared enough to even talk about you, whether the comment was positive or negative?

This is Stratten’s general premise as to how a company can use this unique time and place to correspond one-on-one with its customers; something that was never possible before, at least not with such breadth.

Stratten made the foray into

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using Twitter much less intimidating for me: he suggests thinking of it like a party, where you go from room to room, having a quick conversation with one person here, then another there. You can choose to follow a conversation or thread, or leave it. No one will notice one way or another, but of course, the longer you stay, the more you will have a shared experience with others involved.

So where to start? The first five steps are easy: 1) Sign up. 2) Pick a username (called a “handle”, the thing with the “@” proceeding it in a tweet). 3) Put up a photo and 4) add a blurb about you.

Your network will grow more quickly if people know you and your “context”.

Then 5) begin by simply following other people. Local community leaders, politicians, and people who inspire you are a great place to start. For fun, add your favourite sports figures, comedians, or entertainers. Your child’s school and your workplace will almost certainly have a Twitter account.

When you are ready to start tweeting but don’t know if you yet have anything original to say, begin by simply replying to other’s tweets. Hashtags are helpful clues to following a particular trend on Twitter, and when you start using it for business, this will become important.

But in the early stages, you will really just need to get a feel for which party you feel like joining, and which ones you can skip out early.

Happy tweeting!

Amanda DeVries owns Amanda DeVries Brand + Design. Her website is amandadevries.com and you can find her on Twitter and Instagram as @aDeVries_gd.

STAY WARM THIS WINTER

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E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 36

“Sunshine vitamin” boosts immunity

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

Vitamin D is sometimes referred to as the “sunshine vitamin” as much of the vitamin D we need comes from sun exposure. As the dark winter months approach, it is important to learn about the importance of Vitamin D and how our colder northern climate may be impacting your life.

The “sunshine vitamin” is involved in a myriad of functions in our bodies including cell growth and metabolism as well as immune system function. In fact, vitamin D receptors are found in almost every cell and tissue. Vitamin D deficiency has been linked to osteoporosis, asthma, autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, diabetes, disturbed muscle function, and lowered immune system function.

Many people are aware that Vitamin D is very important for the growth, development and maintenance of our bones. Vitamin D3 supplementation has been well established as an important component in the prevention of osteoporosis in adults. Children may be susceptible to developing a bone softening disease called rickets if they do not have sufficient levels of vitamin D. The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends a vitamin D intake of 800 IU (international units) for infants in the first year in far northern communities and 400 IU per day in the more southern regions of Canada. The Institute of Medicine recommends 200 IU per day for children between the ages of one and eight.

Besides the classic function of Vitamin D in helping to support the skeletal system, more and more evidence is mounting that it also plays a role in immune system function. Individuals with lower vitamin D levels may be more susceptible to upper respiratory tract infections. A study in Finland of 800 military recruits found that those with lower vitamin D levels lost significantly more days from active duty due to upper respiratory tract infections than recruits with higher vitamin D levels. There have also been studies that suggest a greater susceptibility to contracting influenza when vitamin D levels are not sufficient to support the immune system.

More recently, there has been mounting research

that indicates a possible link between Vitamin D deficiency and an increased risk of acquiring multiple sclerosis (MS). MS has been shown to be much more prevalent in higher latitudes where sunlight is of a lower intensity than in lower latitudes. Canada is one of the countries with the highest incidence of MS worldwide. Interestingly, the amount of sunlight exposure is very important during childhood and adolescence. Even the amount of sunlight exposure of the mother while she is pregnant may have implications related to vitamin D status and the risk of developing MS. As we enter the month of November, our exposure to sunlight of course decreases. Unfortunately, this is one of the major sources of vitamin D. A cross sectional study done by Health Canada indicated that about 40% of Canadians fell below the minimum recommended levels of vitamin D needed for optimal bone health during the winter months. Keep in mind this is only looking at one component, specifically bone health. The immune system component that we have discussed may require greater amounts of vitamin D than is required for minimum bone health. The good news is that besides sun exposure we can also increase our vitamin D levels through diet and supplementation.

As we progress through the winter months it is important to pay attention to the amount of vitamin D that you are getting to help you to fight off the common infections during the cold and flu season.

Foods that are sources for vitamin D include fish especially salmon, fortified foods such as orange juice, and LIVE dairy products and eggs. SupplementaMUSIC! tion with a good quality vitamin D product and even good old fashion cod liver oil may also be a good idea.

Volunteers needed for Snow Angel Program Excellent opportunity for students looking for volunteer hours.

And it feels great to help out our community.

If you are interested in volunteering for this program or in receiving assistance from a Snow Angel, please call 519-631-1680 ext. 4196 or email hwelsh@stthomas.ca November, 2017

Healthy Living Everyday Health

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

Business Christmas Dinner Party SAT. DEC. 9, 2017

Cocktails at 5:00pm Dinner at 6:00pm Dance to “Southbound” 8:00pm to Midnight Your company party plans made easy and affordable!

Celebrate the Season and network with other local businesses!

Call Melissa at 519-773-5271 for info and to reserve your tickets!

522 Talbot St. W. Aylmer

519-773-5271 • www.saxoniahall.com E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 37

Lifestyle TIME ON MY HANDS

Meditation: For the birds, and beyond

by Duncan Watterworth

SO FAR, I’M JUST CHECKING IN

For the last two winters, our band of kayaking snowbirds has met on Monday mornings to practice Qi Gong on the threadbare carpet of the rec room above the volunteer fire hall in Alligator Point, on the Florida Panhandle.

Barb and I had paddled for three winters with the instructor, Tracy, and her husband Tom, with no idea that she had spent much of her life studying and instructing in various Eastern disciplines.

Then she asked the firefighters for a key to the only large room for many kilometres, and we were soon swaying like seaweed in the tide, moving our arms like dragons’ wings, and lubricating our joints.

We sampled a smorgasbord of practices. One day, she talked us through a body scan meditation. We laid on that carpet, tried to silence our minds, and focus awareness on our bodies, one part at a time.

We learned how to Check In – a sort of minimeditation, to be done repeatedly throughout the day. All it takes is to turn your attention to the here-and-now for a few seconds, draw a few breaths, and notice your surroundings and interior condition. In the fire hall, I suddenly noticed the birds that had been chirping near the open window, and the waves grinding on the Gulf beach.

In my lifetime I have started, and quit, a regular meditation practice at least three times. My self-discipline fails. At least Checking In is easy.

Meditation-lite.

Meditation goes back at least as far as Buddha, 2,500 years ago. Recently, variations have been secularized and commoditized, and prescribed for stress, better sleep, and chronic pain. A recent newspaper story touts meditation as “one component of your overall health recipe”, and for “letting go of toxic thoughts”.

Basic meditation is simply sitting and focusing your attention on breathing, or repeating a mantra. When the mind wanders – as it instantly will – you gently lead it back. Repeat a few thousand times. When I meditate, my mind immediately

goes walkabout, and must endlessly be hauled back. It can be boring and exasperating simultaneously.

The initial goal of Buddhist meditation is to train the mind, to strengthen the mind’s ability to stay focused. Once this ability is developed, a heightened concentration can be brought to bear on anything, within or without.

That would support my desire to go out of my mind – with its incessant chatter – and spend more time in the here-and-now. I want to notice those birds chirping, and soak more reality into my pores. I’m missing so much.

So why is our attention so annoyingly quick to jump the rails? Blame the “default mode network” which neuroscientists have identified in the brain.

It kicks in instantly once we complete a goaloriented task, and sends our thoughts hither and yon.

This is described in “Why Buddhism Is True”, the provocatively titled 2017 book by scholar and veteran science writer Robert Wright. He suggests that the dominance of the default mode network

Karen Vecchio,

can be diluted by sufficient meditation.

Wright investigates whether modern neuroscience and psychology support any of Buddha’s core psychological insights, while expressly bypassing the supernatural stuff like reincarnation.

The book examines Buddha’s beliefs that human suffering and discomfort are caused by excessive cravings, desires, and attachments; that we are not nearly as in control of our thoughts and behaviors as we think; and that these can be remedied by following his Eightfold Path, which includes mindfulness and concentration.

But that’s a lot to think about, when I’m still trying to Check In with the birdsong. Some of this may have to wait for my next lifetime.

Duncan Watterworth is a life-long resident of Elgin County and a retired lawyer. He can be reached at duncanetm@gmail.com.

M.P.

ELGIN-MIDDLESEX-LONDON

• Canada Revenue Agency • Seniors’ Issues • • Citizenship & Immigration • • Employment Insurance • Passport Inquiries • 203-750 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1E2

519-637-2255 www.karenvecchiomp.ca November, 2017

ELGIN THIS MONTH

38

Binding the Generations

Sponsored by

Anything Used and Sparta Country Candles

Chamber describes this award Please tell us a bit about the origins as “designed to honour those of Anything Used and Sparta Country who have distinguished themCandles. selves as exceptional with sigPat and I founded Anything Used in nificant contributions to the 1992 in the historic Village of Sparta in economic, social & cultural faba general store built in 1838. Owning a ric of our community.” business had always been Pat’s dream.

Over time, we have learned At one time we were hoping to sell to listen to the next generation our house and head up to Englehart in and have them teach us the adNorthern Ontario. That didn’t work out, vantages of using social media but someone made him aware of the and all the other new electronic store in Sparta. We put everything on avenues available now. the line, and here we are 25 years later.

What are some important We were never afraid of change. lessons you’ve learned as you From an early focus on antique furnimade the transition from one ture and other used items of interest Mark, Mary and Pat Muscat light up life with candles and laughter. generation to the next? to customers, we introduced fudge and We are learning to be pathen our strongest niche line to date … candles. In the early 1990s, customers were demanding high quality tient, accept new technology even though we have trouble learning it. candles at affordable prices. Having difficulty finding these qualities We put the emphasis on what they do well and their successes.

It’s important to allow the next generation to try new things and in a candle, we introduced Sparta Country Candles in 1995. After six months of intensive research and humble beginnings – 18 candles a occasionally make mistakes just like you did when you were starting night produced in the family kitchen – Sparta Country Candles now out.

Can you share your thoughts about the value being a mentor, or produces hundreds of candles a day. We now market these through a the importance of finding a mentor? network of Ontario retailers as well as in our Sparta location.

Both of our mentors taught us the value of hard work, honesty, and Our store features two floors of rooms full of unique home décor items, candle accessories, seasonal items and Sparta Country Candles. an ability to problem solve. They also taught us to be kind and accept What kinds of decisions were involved in some of the lines you’ve each person as they are, warts and all.

Pat is definitely the visualizer and I am more the tasker in this partspecialized in?

We have changed directions many times, and it comes from listen- nership. Our son, Mark, now runs the manufacturing end, takes care ing to what our customers want and meeting their needs at a com- of our advertising and coordinates our social media advertising. He petitive price while we support our sales with good customer service. is our future, and we are starting to introduce our granddaughters to working with us.

Any tips on marketing and promotion?

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

We have always relied on word-of-mouth and community involveFor Pat, the best advice was from his dad who told him never to ment as the most important aspects of marketing, along with a little traditional advertising. It is an honour to give back to the community take on a partner. Forgive but do not forget so you don’t make the same mistake twice. that has given so much to us.

In 2002, we were fortunate to be presented with a Free Enterprise Award from The St. Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce. The

Family Owned & Operated for 3 Generations since 1967 We invite you to discuss Funeral Preplanning with any of our qualified Funeral Directors

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E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 39

congratulations doug tarry homes wins ontario home builders’ association prestige award for Project Hope Doug Tarry Homes was the 2017 Prestige Award winner for Project of the Year - Low Rise.

In addition, Doug Tarry Homes took home two awards in the Project Image and Advertising category, including Best Video Low-Rise Project and Best Use of Social Media for Project Hope.

way to go team!

Contact us today 519-637-6819 At home or on your phone, go to www.dougtarryhomes.com

November, 2017

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 40