September 2017

Your Business. Your Community.

DUNCAN SINCLAIR

The good doctor retires Cover story: Page 3

Inside: • Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce Pages 18 & 19

• Women in Business Pages 20 - 32

Volume 8 No. 1, September 2017

Build a successful business while making a positive impact on the lives of children in your community.

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September, 2017

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

Respected town doctor retires after 54 years

by Melissa Schneider

After 54 years in the medicine business, Aylmer’s Dr. Duncan W. Sinclair Sr. has decided to officially retire in October. Not an easy decision for the doctor, after serving countless local residents for the better part of his life, but one that he knew would have to happen eventually.

“It’s bittersweet for me and I’m going to miss it all. I love dealing with people and helping people and I’m going to miss that.”

For Dr. Sinclair much has changed in the profession since he started in the old family home, taking over the practice in 1964 that his Father Dr. Charles W. Sinclair ran from 1911-1958 and Grandfather Dr. Coll Sinclair ran from 18751936. He used to spend all morning at the hospital delivering babies and dealing with what he calls lumps, bumps and biopsies. He also assisted with surgeries and to this day he still makes house calls.

“The changing of medicine has been unbelievable,” he said. “All these new advances – MRIs, cat scans, all of these things can be really expensive.

We didn’t have that kind of technology when I started. You really had to assess everything about a patient.”

At his highest point, Sinclair had more than 4,000 patients on his roster, now he is down to what he considers to be an acceptable amount – around 2,000.

Sinclair was pivotal in the formation of the East Elgin Family Health Team in Aylmer. He along with Drs. Graham, Howe, Toth and Washburn shared a similar vision to bring every service together in one location. Once Sinclair retires there will still be six doctors and two nurse practitioners available for patients at the clinic.

Working in a small town does come with advantages, Sinclair explained, adding that when you’re part of the community your patients are your friends.

“I’ve had a very fulfilling career and I wouldn’t change that for anything. It was so wonderful to be able to spend those years looking after my friends.”

Sinclair’s oldest patient is 54 years old, having

been delivered by the doctor who was in his fourth year of medical school at Western University at the time.

Sinclair married wife Margaret in 1960 during his first year of medical school and together they had three children – Duncan Jr., Kathy and Jane.

His son recalls growing up in a small town with a well-known doctor for a father, and he is having a hard time believing his Dad will ever truly retire.

“I don’t think he’ll ever fully retire. I think he’ll still do locums for doctors and continue with the walk-in clinic,” Duncan Jr. said. “If he does retire though, it’ll be well-deserved at 81.”

There were definitely advantages to growing up with the town doctor at home, Duncan Jr. said, including having him available for any questions.

But Duncan Jr. also recalls his Dad’s long hours at work, with visits to the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital for morning rounds with his patients.

“The town is his family. The patients are his family. He was a family doctor. Even though medicine has changed to him it’s still about the patients.”

In his free time, Dr. Sinclair was busy instilling the love of hunting and fishing in his children, with that passion going strong. He spent many years supporting numerous charities and was a charter member in Ducks Unlimited, helped start the Order of Good Cheer and the Aylmer Area Community Foundation and has won multiple awards for his volunteer work within the community.

Duncan Jr. is a teacher at East Elgin Secondary School and started the Environmental Leadership Program, a course designed to teach students about the importance of wetland conservation.

Long-time friend and owner of H. Kebbel Funeral Home in Aylmer Herb Kebbel said he first met Dr. Sinclair when good friend Mike Kapogines threw him a welcome home party after Dr. Sinclair decided to come home from working at

Dunc Sinclair at work in his Aylmer office. the Harkness Laboratory of Fisheries Research in British Columbia and take over the existing family practice. They’ve been friends ever since.

“We’ve been hunting and fishing buddies in a big way and that’s how way back in 1974 we started getting very involved with Ducks Unlimited.”

Kebbel and Dr. Sinclair are neighbours, having side-by-side trailers in Long Point.

“I knew that somewhere along the line he’d want to retire and a few weeks ago he lowered the boom that he’s all done by November 1. That’s good because we go deer hunting the next week,” Kebbel said, laughing.

He recalled stories Dr. Sinclair told him about the early days of his practice and how he would get payment from patients in the form of mushrooms and other trade goods, which the doctor happily accepted.

Kebbel commended Dr. Sinclair for all the boards he belonged to and the conservation organizations he supported over the years.

“He never had anything to do with politics, never served on town council, but he was always involved in different things going on in the town.”

It was Dr. Sinclair who helped Kebbel get into a Hamilton hospital when he had a heart attack 14 years ago.

After he officially retires, Dr. Sinclair will still enjoy early morning coffee with “the boys,” knowing he’s leaving his patients well cared for in the hands of the East Elgin Family Health Team.

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

Cover and page 3 photos by Mike Maloney

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 September, 2017

ELGIN THIS MONTH

3

INNES As I See It

The Working Crucible resilient, something new is created.

The crucible is a container that comes in a variWith this in mind, ety of shapes and sizes and is essentially used for the crucible becomes mixing chemical compounds at very high heat. an important place for In my counselling, I use the term ‘crucible’ to new growth, and ‘staydescribe a marriage (or partnership) in which ing’ becomes the cornertwo people are fused by a love that changes them stone of success. Deeper both. in this mix, we find the The change process is caused when the two in- resilient love that fused volved face the heat of outside stimuli such as them together in the beeconomic demands, familial expectations, and ginning. unresolved emotional issues. These, and many Extra support for the such ‘heat producing’ influences, crank up the crucible can be found temperature and stimulate some manner of trans- in counselling. But only formation (personally and relationally). in those interventions This transformation generates a level of stress. which preserve the change process by focusing And how those involved manage that stress has on the identification and management of the great impact on stress. Additional support can whether the transbe gleaned from those self-help two people are fused by a books that try to rekindle the formation is a positive one. positive energy from when the Stress can be crucible felt strongest. quite intense.

Stay away from resources that And the reaction promote the planting of a rose of those involved garden. No such sweet smelling is often unprebliss exists in a real crucible … dictable. Sometimes this will blow the crucible at least not as a constant. apart. Nevertheless, if both people are reasonably Also avoid interventions (or readings) that focus on ending stress.

Stress is an inevitable part of the journey.

If nothing else, some couples need be coached to face their conflict straight up.

And helpful strategies may include setting time to ‘fight’ (fairly).

Marriage (and a like-framed partnership) is but one form of ‘crucible’. Other • Yard Clean-ups crucibles, in which ‘heat’ stimulates per• Winterizing of Plants and Water sonal and relational growth are friendship features

by Jim Innes

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circles, faith communities, and other such interest groups in which the organization is reliant upon mutuality and an agreed upon mandate.

As in marriage, ‘staying’ in these other crucibles becomes so very important to the change process.

Someone leaving the crucible too early, for whatever reason, minimizes, if not, defeats, any potential for personal growth.

Granted, not everyone is looking for personal growth. But, in my mind, growth is but a natural maturing, and comes part and parcel in any manner of mutuality. Perhaps it is why it’s said, “no one is an island.” We cannot even sneeze in relationship without affecting each other.

Truth is, not all leaving is bad, and not all staying is good. There are complicated situations, when the ramifications of staying outweigh the benefits; think here of abuse and ethical breaches.

Nonetheless, as I have come to see it, all creation suffers when good people choose to turn their backs on one another. The systemic casualties are unnumbered, and the creative potential is lost forever.

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 OUR COMMUNITY

Want to influence City budget? Go on line

by Serge Lavoie

To craft a municipal operating budget, you need the wisdom of Solomon, a crystal ball and a thick skin. Preferably all three.

In St. Thomas, rate payers have had an opportunity to test their own skills and wisdom with an online, pre-budget tool that categorizes city expenses across 17 basic types of services and gives you the opportunity to set your own priorities.

Cut some expense here, add some costs there, and give your reasons for each.

At the end of the exercise, you get to see the net effect of your decisions on your own taxes, based on the assessed property value you enter into the worksheet.

It’s an interesting experience for a typical taxpayer. Just try to maintain your taxes at the current rate without cutting services that you personally value or that are generally viewed as critical to the safety and security of any community.

The planning tool, which will be in place on the city website until mid-September, gives us an inside view on the balancing act that is municipal governance.

Staff, working with the day-to-day realities of delivering services, make recommendations based on their professional experience. Elected officials, never more than a phone call or email away from taxpayer opinion – some of it delivered in strong language – need to craft a final outcome that is usually a compromise between literally hundreds of competing opinions.

Good governance on the budget front should start with a clear vision of where the community is heading. In previous years, grappling with the loss of manufacturing jobs and tax revenues from manufacturing facilities, councils held expenses in check in an effort to weather the storm.

The result was a community that got through the worse while creating a deficit of delayed infrastructure investments valued at over $200 million. Now, with growth returning, the city is reinvesting in itself, catching up on deferred capital projects and putting in place growth strategies de-

signed to attract more visitors and residents.

To its credit, this current council has adopted a very transparent fiscal planning approach. It has communicated effectively about its plans and the outcomes. From my perspective, this has created an enhanced level of community engagement and a rise in civic pride. here and spending more there, I ended up increasYou may disagree (I would be surprised if you ing my taxes by about 3 percent over inflation. didn’t). However, this coming budget cycle will For a community in growth mode, with tons of be a critical one. After a few years of higher than potential yet to be realized, I can live with that. normal investment, will the positive public mood Before you personally decide that you can’t live hold? Next year is a municipal election year as with that kind of increase, take the pre-budget well. New voices will join the debate early on, test. Maybe it will change your mind. At the very as candidates attempt to get attention. Existing least, it will give you a better appreciation of how councillors may want to reign in the spending compromises are made. during a year when they are seeking re-election.

It’s also a provincial election year. That is bound Serge Lavoie has a 35-year career to make taxpayers feel crankier. During election managing associations. He is years the tone gets darker and gloomier. We can currently leading the St. Thomas expect to be bombarded by political messaging Elevated Park project. designed to shake our faith in the current government. That’s simply the process; always has been.

One way to counteract the political spin from all sides is to arm yourself with as much information as possible.

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Life is better in the Quick Lane.™ 5

Business & Community Tourism

Bridgeview Marina – Watersports in the Port

by Katherine Thompson

You might be of the opinion that a day in beautiful lakeside Port Stanley couldn’t possibly get any better. The village’s sandy beaches, sweet ice cream parlours, abundance of restaurants, quaint shops and boutiques, and live performances make it the perfect place to have a good time. This is exactly how Crystal Caughell, owner of Bridgeview Marina felt about the charming portside village.

She was always looking for an excuse to spend time there and considered it a great place to spend a summer soaking up the sun and meeting new

We can make the music in your classic car sound just like your new car without vehicle modifications.

people.

Crystal saw Port Stanley not only for what it was, but what it could be. She saw the potential for growth in the village and wanted to be a part of it herself. She began looking for business opportunities and while searching online she came across a small marina for sale, located on the Kettle Creek.

“It was a nice little marina,” said Crystal, “But it needed a lot of love!”

Also the owner of a pig farm in nearby Wallacetown, Crystal knew a thing or two about hard work and the poor state of the marina didn’t deter her at all. She purchased the property and got straight to work landscaping, updating, and making repairs.

Bridgeview Marina opened in June of 2017 and offers not only traditional marina services such as a pair boat launch, dockage We re ry space, and off-season Factoio storage for boats and Aud ! ell as w jet-skis but also offers recreational watersport rentals as well.

“We wanted to offer

something different.” says Crystal, “We wanted to make the village even better by providing even more great things for visitors to do while in Port Stanley.”

Seven days a week visitors and residents alike can rent kayaks, canoes, stand up paddle boards, and jet skis at the 301 Carlow Road location. The calmer waters of the Kettle Creek offer kayakers, canoers, and paddle-boarders a quieter location to test the waters while taking in the stunning scenery. Those who are a little more adventurous can take their rentals out on to the rougher waters of Lake Erie. Visitors to the marina can pre-book rentals in advance to ensure their availability but pre-bookings are not a requirement.

For a nominal fee, visitors can spend a quiet day fishing off the dock at the marina where live bait is available for purchase. The marina also offers several camping spaces with electrical and water hook-ups to accommodate camping trailers.

For more information about Bridgeview Marina including a list of rental prices visit https:// bridgeview-marina.com/.

Katherine Thompson is Marketing & Communications Coordinator with The County of Elgin

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

Agriculture ON THE FARM random assortment of collapsed lawn chairs, and a bonus point was offered for the batter who could hit the outhouse.

The batting order was loosely set, depending on attention span and on who needed a snack, or a break on the beach blanket, and sometimes just because mom really wanted an extra chance at bat. Most of the players were still wearing bathing suits, and footwear ranged from runners, to flip flops (quickly discarded) and a few brave ones in bare feet. Many tried, but nobody earned the bragging rights of hitting the outhouse, but the kids enjoyed seeing their parents make the effort. There were a few decent plays, many missed throws, a lot of bases stolen, and several times that nobody could tell the difference between runners and fielders.

No one bothered to keep score, but with sunset approaching it was bound to end soon. What really finished it off was the campsite owner stopping in for a visit with their new treasure … so we ended the game on account of a puppy sighting.

With our farm team getting taller we’ll likely have to move next year’s spring training into the field instead of the front yard. With any luck we’ll remember where we’ve stashed all the equipment and the neighborhood animals will be around in no time to distract, or catch a view from the cheap seats.

The farm team kicks off in fine style We like our beer flat as can be.

We like our dogs with mustard and relish.

We got a great pitcher what’s his name?

Well we can’t even spell it.

We don’t worry about the pennant much.

We just like to see the boys hit it deep.

There’s nothing like the view from the cheap seats.

Alabama It’s always nice when the things we’ve saved for years prove to be useful, and even better when the kids appreciate them. This spring the ‘find’ was our old baseball gloves, broken in from years of play, and slightly musty from years of being buried someplace in the garage. It seems that baseball is having a resurgence around here, and the kids were finally eager to join us in the sport we were both raised on.

They haven’t yet found “their” sport in the official sense of joining a league, but our crew was ready to try it out at home, in a few rounds of what we’ll call farmyard ball. Spring training was a little iffy on our slightly rolling front yard, but we made it work. With just enough basic equipment around, we improvised. First base was a seedling tree, with a reminder to “please go easy on it” as they rounded the bases. Second was the tall pine, third was often a spare shoe, and home plate was the glove of the current batter.

Everyone made the cut for this team. It was critical to ensure everyone looked the part, so dad reminded us all that proper footwear was required and turned

up to the game wearing rubber boots and cut off jean shorts. Rules were loosely based on the mainstream game, with slight diversions when younger players mistook other seedlings for additional bases, when an airborne ball smacked the pine tree, and often when kittens stormed the field, distracting the batter and back catcher.

We quickly had to focus on the batter aiming properly, and the fielders getting in front of the ball, since nobody seemed to want to go through the electric fence in the pasture to retrieve the fouls that made it to left field. The pitcher (daddy) had to be vigilant as novice batters hit consistently directly towards him; he had to move quickly to protect a variety of body parts.

On a recent getaway, we camped with two from other farm families and were happy to find that everyone had packed for an impromptu allCH4400 ages game. The campCH5653 site is in the countrySC5720B side, run by a farm family so it felt rather like home, minus the chores. In a similar layout, the field was set.

Bases were made of a

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

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Business & Community Financial Planning

Age-appropriate ways to teach kids money

by Ellen Luft

For many parents, money vies with sex as a taboo topic, but talking to your kids about money will have big payoffs for them later in life.

Lessons about money should be fun, geared to your child’s abilities and full of parental encouragement. All children develop at different rates but there are general age-based guidelines to use when helping your child understand money values.

toys with price stickers and use real money. Take turns being shopper and cashier.

from bills.

9+ Have your child make a wish list us5+ Start an allowance. Open a youth bank ing catalogues and flyers. Discuss how imporaccount. Show your child how to use a pay phone. tant each item is, whether prices vary from store to store, and the difference between needs and 6+ Help your child work towards a financial wants. goal. If they want a toy or special treat, help them put money aside from their allowance in a jar ev10+ Encourage your child to think of ways ery week until the goal is achieved. he or she could make money.

7+ Have your child ask a grandparent or 11+ Talk about how advertising (catchy other relative about prices of various items years tunes, celebrity spokespersons) influences our

3+ ago, and compare them with today’s prices. buying decisions. the magical concept of 4+ Set up a play store at home. Label food or 8+ Help your child practice making change 12+ Introduce compound interest.

13+ Play the stock market, using a pretend $10,000 to buy

Give your child money to pay the cashier for a small item at the store.

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14+

Try your child out on a monthly clothing allowance. Let him or her live with the consequences of their decisions.

Have fun and believe that the lessons your child learns early will last a lifetime.

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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.

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

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• SEPTEMBER 2017 •

October – It’s Show Time!

Meet The Makers – Wednesday October 11

Silver winner Suzie Dennis of Doug Tarry Homes couldn’t suppress her exuberance after finding one of the two silver bars hidden in vehicles at the August Business After 5 at Elgin Chrysler. For more pictures see page 11. Photo credit: Spitzky Media.

September Business After 5 Date:

Wednesday September 20

Time:

Doors Open at 5:00 p.m.

Presentations & Prizes at 6:15 p.m.

Sponsor:

Reith & Associates Insurance and Financial Services

Site:

St. Thomas Seniors Centre 225 Chestnut Street

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

Business Beat Table of Contents Page 10 .............Recharge time Page 11 ............Building better Page 12 ............ Legal Business Page 13 .................... Golf days Page 14 ............. Have your say Page 15 ............ New Members Page 16 .................Kidnapped?

September, 2017

If you are a maker – a manufacturer, a producer, a grower, an artist or a craftsperson – and you produce in St. Thomas or Elgin County – you are invited to be one of our displays at a new and unique event in the Railway City Big Top on CASO Crossing.

Thanks to our core sponsors, including the RBC (Royal Bank of Canada) and LEPC (Local Employment Planning Council), display space is completely free of charge for local manufacturers and producers within the arts community. For business support & supply services, a modest display charge applies.

Our goal in delivering this event is our future. We’re working to see that students and teachers attend and explore displays featuring products and technology, and to give them a chance to see, touch and hear about local employment opportunities on the horizon. For residents

and people from businesses in every sector of our local economy, Meet The Makers will provide an inside look at the places where things are made and to learn about the people and opportunities these businesses bring to our community. There is no admission charge to attend!

The Railway City Big Top’s huge 16,000 square-foot space gives us an opportunity to put things on display at a level never before possible.

Interested in being an exhibitor? Business and industry can call or come to the Chamber. We’re reachable by phone at 519-631-1981, by email at mail@stthomaschamber.ca or in-person at our offices in the Elgin Business Resource Centre at 300 South Edgeware Road. For those within the arts community, the St. Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre is our partner/organizer. Call them at 519-631-4040.

National Small Business Week

Business & Community Showcase – Wednesday October 18 Although much smaller in scale than our Meet The Makers event, the Chamber’s annual mini trade show, our Business & Community Showcase, takes place at St. Anne’s Centre on Wednesday October 18. It’s the primary focus of local activity for us during National Small Business Week. 10’ x 10’ table exhibitor spaces are $155 - $185. At deadline time for this article, only 20 spaces remained open.

This event runs over 4 hours, 3 ’til 7 p.m. and features door prizes, complimentary food samples and much more from exhibitors in local retail outlets, trades & services, and hospitality.

For additional information, see the Events section on the Chamber’s website at www. stthomaschamber. on.ca or call us at 519-631-1981. In addition to doing double-duty as the Chamber’s October edition of Business After 5, the Business & Community Showcase is an open and free opportunity for all to attend.

Proving there’s sometimes irony in victory, John Cook from Buff ’n Shine won a $100 car care & detailing kit at Business After 5, donated by DowlerKarn. Elgin Chrysler’s Brent Kidder, left, congratulated John on the win and presented his prize.

Photo courtesy of Spitzky Media.

Take part in our October feature

“Be Ready For Winter”

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

OctoberEdition EditionAdvertising Advertising Deadline Deadline is is September 19th October 17th

ELGIN THIS MONTH

9

Viewpoint

Four tips for getting your business mojo back

by Christina Green

Could it have been the dog days of summer? Or could it have been the vacation you did or didn’t get? Or how about working long hours? Your personal life doesn’t go on hold. You still have familial responsibilities, bills to pay, friends to see, and thousands of other things that are on your mind.

Let’s face it. There are times at work that are just harder than others. Even the best job can feel … well, like work sometimes. It’s hard to be inspired and do your best on the job when your business mojo has taken a back seat to all the other pressing issues in your life. But if you’re going to be satisfied in your professional life, it’s essential you get it back.

Here’s how: 1. Remember why you went into business in the first place Most of us have a reason for going into the industry we’re in. Even if you fell into it, and it was not on your career most-wanted list, there’s something that has kept you there. What is it? Is it helping people, seeing the smiles on their faces, crunching numbers, solving problems, or something else? Remember what it is that drew you to your industry (or the reason you didn’t walk away three days in). Then find a way to get back to that.

It’s possible you’ve lost your business mojo because you loved helping people and maybe now you’re a manager and you don’t deal with the customer di-

rectly unless there’s a problem. You can either give up the management role and get back to what you love — helping people — or you can find ways to help people in your current role like becoming a mentor to junior members of the team.

Figure out what you originally loved and find a way to bring more of it into your current position, even if it means taking on another role or reworking yours slightly.

2. Surround yourself with people who understand It’s nice to lean on your friends and family for support when you’re going through the career doldrums but unless they have been through similar situations, your complaining will eventually turn tiresome. You need to surround yourself with people who understand the pressure of business. Joining the Chamber of Commerce is a wonderful way to be around people who understand your level of stress and the growing pains of business. Unlike friends and family, they have likely been there and can help you get going and navigate when your sails have lost the wind.

3. Take a break Vacations are incredibly important to our peace of mind. Yet, the number of people not using time off is hitting epidemic proportions. In 2016, 54% of Americans didn’t use all their vacation. Some of those people even lost it because it wasn’t used. Small business owners are particularly vulnerable because they We’ve got you covered. Guaranteed. always wonder who’s running things when As a small business owner, you’re trying to stretch every dollar.

Self-employed?

they’re gone. If you’re a mom and pop operation, you may not have taken a vacation in years.

Often by the time a business owner realizes they need one, they’re so burned out that taking a week off doesn’t even help. It may actually add to the stress because they’re wondering what’s going on with the business and they’re concerned about what they’ll come back to.

But vacations aren’t the only way to take a break (although, if you can, you should). Most people go too long between vacations. They end up working many long hours before and after to take one. Some even take work with them. Instead, try to find ways to take breaks throughout your day. Go for a walk at lunch. Start your day off with meditation or reading a chapter in a favourite book.

When you’re doing those things and taking a break, be there. Enjoy that moment. Don’t look at your watch and think you only have five minutes.

Enjoy those five as if they were 50.

4. End your day with a ritual This is not about lighting candles and using incense (unless you want it to be) but establishing an activity that you do every night to signify to your mind and body that it’s time to wind down. Parents often do this with an evening bath for their babies.

Choose one or two non-electronic things that you will do consistently every night right before bed.

This is your brain’s signal to begin powering down and turn everything off.

Work is work. Even those of us who love it go through periods where it’s a grind. If you’re currently in a slump, don’t give up hope. These straightforward ways can help you get your business mojo back.

But if it’s just not working, remember our careers are a big part of our lives. If you’re not feeling fulfilled there, it permeates other areas as well. Don’t allow yourself that level of unhappiness. The years are too short for that.

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.

The last thing you want to deal with is unexpected health care costs.

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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 Digital Marketing Jeff Kelly

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

September, 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 Big wins at Business After 5

The smiles – and the prizes – were plentiful at our August 16 edition of the Chamber’s monthly Business After 5, hosted and sponsored by Elgin Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram on Wellington Street in St. Thomas. Brent Kidder (left) Managing Partner at Elgin Chrysler presents Duane Orth of St. Thomas Energy with a prime prize, a new 55-inch 4K HD TV.

Building Better:

A review and recommendations on Ontario’s infrastructure The Ontario Chamber of Commerce, together with Chamber offices across Ontario, has released a new report and 8 key recommendations about Ontario’s infrastructure.

Our latest report and research is titled Building Better. Our analysis finds that much of Ontario’s infrastructure, including elements here in St. Thomas and across Elgin County, is inadequate to support the needs of a growing and changing province.

Both Ontario and Canada have suffered through a period of underinvestment. Our biggest challenge is that much of the infrastructure in Ontario was built in the 1950’s and 1960’s. Sewer and water systems, roads and bridges, electrical and transit systems and much more are at risk and the current estimated cost of rehabilitation province-wide is estimated at a whopping $19 billion and growing by $3.7 billion annually, not including education facilities and social housing.

According to data from CANCEA, the Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis, public infrastructure investments have been under stress since the late 60s. Expressed as a percentage of GDP (Gross Domestic Product), infrastructure spending in 1968 was roughly 5% for Canada and around 4% for Ontario. Spending fell each year until 2003 when it reached 3% nationally and provincially. The present levels continue to be below historic averages at close to 3.5% for both levels of government.

Our new report provides key elements that the Province’s Long-Term Infrastructure Plan (LTIP) should include to enhance the economic return on the province’s future infrastructure investments. The report contains eight recommendations that should be considered by the Province of Ontario as it is developing the LTIP in order to maximize the positive impact to business’ bottom line in Ontario.

To view and/or download the full 40-page report, see the News section of the Chamber’s website at www.stthomaschamber.on.ca

Buying a home? rotection Mortgage p important an insurance is a home. ing part of own t your options . bou Let ’s talk a you for coverage Get a plan ke you – just li e. carry with om h your new the keys to

Everyone attending August’s Business After 5 could join in a Treasure Hunt through the vehicles on Elgin Chrysler’s car lot. Certificates for two 10-ounce bars of pure silver were hidden for the treasure seekers. One of them was happily found by Suzie Dennis (left) of Doug Tarry Homes, the other by Nikki Johnson of Reith & Associates Insurance and Financial Services. Elgin Chrysler’s Brent Kidder looked after the presentations.

Photos courtesy of Spitzky Media

National Chamber AGM set for New Brunswick For everyone involved in the successful operation of the Chamber, both volunteers and staff, the Canadian Chamber’s Annual General Meeting & Convention is our network’s must-attend event of the year. The 2017 AGM takes places in Fredericton over the weekend of September 23 to 25. It will be preceded by the national Chamber staff association’s AGM September 21 & 22. Attendees get plugged-in to the latest developments, trends and issues that are important to the Canadian business community and will help develop our policy agenda, identifying ways to build a Canada that wins.

September, 2017

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

Life’s brighter under the sun *Mutual funds distributed 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, 2017.

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

Legal Business

Ahead of the wave: Planning for wealth transfer

by Monty Fordham

Over the next 20 years, Canadian Baby Boomers may inherit over 1 trillion dollars. By extension, the much smaller millennial generation is expected to inherit even more. (Unless, of course, their boomer parents blow it all) This off-loading of wealth will undoubtedly not go unnoticed by the taxing authorities at every level of government.

At present, at least in Ontario, estates are subject only to Estate Administration Tax (EAT). It’s a paltry amount compared to what I think may be coming in the form of both federal and provincial inheritance taxes. Tax avoidance/deferral plans and the tools which create them will become more and more important in the future. At present, par-

ticularly in larger estates, corporations and trusts are often used to avoid or defer various types of tax, as well as organize more clearly the intentions of the testator.

In general terms, Ontario law recognizes three types of legal entities: the individual (you and me), the corporation (public or private, profit or non-profit) and the Trust. Again, in very general terms, Ontario Law recognizes two types of Trusts: Inter Vivos (established during the lifetime of the person creating the trust) and Testamentary (contained within the will of the person creating the trust and effective only upon their death).

In the case of larger estates, as well as the tax advantages, such as income-splitting between spouses, and flexibility of gifts to minors or persons with

disabilities, the use of inter vivos trusts provides a framework for the management of the assets of the estate should one or both of the spouses become disabled or incompetent. And since the inter vivos trust does not die, the assets held within it do not pass to beneficiaries on the death of the testator, thereby eliminating, or at least reducing the Estate Administration Tax. The Income Tax benefits, and potential pitfalls flowing from the establishment of an inter vivos trust are many, and must be discussed thoroughly with a tax accountant and tax lawyer. In this discussion, you will hear terms such as “Alter Ego Trust”, “Joint Partner Trust” and “Self Benefit Trust”. These various vehicles facilitate the rearranging of assets between spouses and among children, before and after death. Great care must be taken in drafting these types of trusts, since, unless the trust provides for amendment, its terms cannot be altered very easily.

By contrast, the testamentary trust, which takes its terms from the will of the testator, can be amended at any time prior to death. While there are definite tax and other advantages Job Search Support to rolling assets into a testamentary trust, Estate Administration Tax may Employment Counselling still apply to the value of any assets transferred to the trust.

Direct Links to Employers The use of a “Henson Trust”, (or Absolute Discretionary Trust) may be helpful in the case of an estate, a porYouth Employment Programs tion of which will pass to a beneficiary with a disability. The way this type of Workshops testamentary trust works is as follows: the estate trustees are instructed not to transfer the inheritance of the person with the disability to him. In fact, the estate trustees are told that they have total discretion whether or not to pay anything to the beneficiary. In separate documents, the trustees are told to provide adequately for the needs and care of the individual, but are given the flexibility so as to avoid interference with other sources of income of the beneficiary.

As part of a comprehensive estate plan, this type of planning can be beneficial, particularly with large or complex estates, and estates involving persons with special needs.

Free Services

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www.employmentserviceselgin.ca September, 2017

Questions, comments and suggestions for future columns are welcomed by lawyer Monty Fordham at his Monty Fordham office: Fordham & Brightling Associates – Lawyers, 4 Elgin Street, St. Thomas. Telephone 519633-4000, 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

Our golf events The St. Thomas & District Chamber hosted two golf events for Members this summer; our 43rd annual Members Golf Day was postponed from May due to rain, and held on another less-rainy day, August 17 at St. Thomas Golf & Country Club. Our Best Ball Open golf/fun day was held at The Bluffs Golf Club in Port Stanley on August 23.

Left: We raised $500 in our Members Golf Day putting contest, sponsored by Legends Tavern. 50% of the cash went to the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital Foundation. High-scoring Trevor Leslie of Pro Oil Change earned the other half.

Above: Libro was our main Members Golf Day sponsor and entered two foursomes in the tourney. Pictured here, left to right, Chris Willemse, Liz Pickering, Sarah Carradine and Mike Kroekenstoel.

Above: And the winners are ... HollisWealth’s foursome earned the John Wright Memorial trophy and assortment of prizes for low gross score at Members Golf Day. The team went 15-under, narrowly edging two other foursomes at 14-under.

Pictured here, l to r, HollisWealth’s Ray Bosveld, Justin Byers, Mike Rivard and Jason Capobianco. The team also supported our charity fundraiser for the St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital Foundation.

Commitment to Excellence Above: RBC Insurance offered a shot at $5000 for a Hole-In-One at our Elgin Chrysler Best Ball Open. Unfortunately, no lucky shots this year. Pictured here, left to right Rosalee Dow, Faye Magallanes, Jodi Mabee, Matt Bartoch and Dave Strano.

Faye Magallanes was there to witness any hole-in-ones on their sponsored hole.

The others were our RBC Insurance foursome. Jodi Mabee won Ladies Closest to the Pin competition.

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

Above: Volunteers - All Chamber events, and golf days are certainly no exception, depend on engaged staff and volunteers. Shown here, left to right, Barry Fitzgerald, Chamber staff; Jan Maguire of Fanshawe College Career & Employment Services; Jennifer Babcock of Meadow Creek Retirement Residence; Christy Hunking, Chamber staff; Rebecca Byers and Kathryn Tull of Leads Employment Services; Katherine Englander, owner of Human Resources Partners 4 Business. Absent when the photo was taken: Jeff Kelly, Chamber staff; Brittany Miller of Boston Pizza; Lucas Hunking, volunteer and helpful son of Christy.

September, 2017

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

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

Member News

You pay, so have your say The City of St. Thomas wants to build its 2018 budget with input from all stakeholders – taxpayers, tenants, residents, property owners, businesses, employees in local businesses and users of any City facilities. And the City wants to hear from as many people as possible, including those who might

YOUR 2018 TAX DOLLARS

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live elsewhere but work here or use municipal facilities or services.

A new on-line tool called Citizen Budget in now alive on the City website. It shows how and where tax dollars are being spent this year (see chart) and invites input on where the dollars should go next year.

Citizen Budget is easy to use, and will be available until Friday September 15. Results will be shared with City Council and staff in advance of launching the 2018 budget process.

In a release to the Chamber, City Engineer Justin Lawrence explained “This new web tool is a fantastic way to engage the public. We know that the best municipal decisions come from an informed public developing ideas in close partnership with staff and City Council.”

Anyone can access Citizen Budget at this link to the municipal website: http://stthomas.citizenbudget.com.

You can access the survey on your own device, at the St. Thomas Public library, or at the customer services desk at City Hall if you need additional assistance.

At the conclusion of the Citizen Budget input questions users will see an opportunity to share other details about themselves including an email address. Please note that your Postal Code is the only mandatory field.

Providing other info including your email address will allow the City to share feedback with you, including a summary on how results from others in your area compare with those you submit.

Agri+Opportunity = Agri-Net Again this November, the St. Thomas & District Chamber joins with our colleagues at the Chamber offices in London, Ingersoll and Tillsonburg to host and present an agriculture-focused event at Western Fair District.

This is an Agri-Business connection for our entire region and an excellent opportunity to be an exhibitor.

If your business is part of, or serves, the agricultural community you’re invited to participate. Feedback from St. Thomas & District exhibitors in last year’s event was very positive with several reports of our Members meeting new contacts and prospects.

Agri-Net will be held at the Western Fair District Metroland Media Agriplex on Thursday November 23, 4:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

The London Chamber staff are handling all aspects of administration and event set-up. Exhibitors spaces are modestly priced at $150. On-line bookings can be made at www.londonchamber.com or contact Janie Rother at the London Chamber office by email at janie@londonchamber.com or 519-4327551 Extension 34.

Watch for other event details, ticket information and more info about attending Agri-Net in the Chamber’s weekly Green Mail newsletter and on the Chamber website at www.stthomaschamber.on.ca

For more information, contact your First Data Business Consultant at 1-888-265-4117. © 2016 First Data Canada Ltd. is a registered ISO/MSP of Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., Canadian Branch, Toronto, ON, Canada. All trademarks, service marks and trade names used in this material are the property of their respective owners.

21958 2016

September, 2017

ELGIN THIS MONTH

Elgin Chrysler’s Managing Partner, Brent Kidder, congratulates Stephanie Brown of Living Alive Granola on her August Business After 5 door prize win – golf for 4 at St. Thomas Golf & Country Club.

Photo courtesy of Spitzky Media 14

Member News

New Members 916 Galleria Elgin Mall 417 Wellington Street St. Thomas, ON N5R 5J5 Phone: 519-207-2934 Email: 916galleria@gmail.com Contact: Laura Crocker, Co-Owner Buyers Guide Categories: Artists & Galleries, Giftware Products & Services: One of the growing number of new shops at Elgin Mall, 916 Galleria is a dedicated venue for local Artisans & Crafters who have built a history of creating and innovating local ideas, products and art pieces. 916 Galleria will be featuring a handpicked selection of eclectic, lively, personalized hand crafted quality pieces within a warm, modern and inviting retail environment. At 916 Galleria every item is a unique piece, created and crafted with passion. Every piece reflects a spirit, a state of mind and an individual experience of creation. 916 Galleria sells a product that has soul and character that will resonate with customers.

Bargain King 449 Talbot Street St. Thomas, ON N5P 1C1 Phone: 519-631-0005 Email: umaranwar449@gmail.com Contact: Umar Anwar, Owner Buyers Guide Categories: Discount Store Products & Services: The Bargain King is a discount store with an amazing selection of scrap- booking and craft supplies, party supplies, helium balloons, school supplies, household items and more.

BELFOR Property Restoration 60 Enterprise Drive London, ON N6N 1A7 Phone: 519-652-1172 Website: www.belfor.com Email: jim.burr@ca.belfor.com Contact: Jim Burr, Senior Accounts Manager Buyers Guide Categories: Restorations, Insurance Services Products & Services: BELFOR is Canada’s leading disaster recovery and damage restoration company for both residential and commercial properties. They operate more than 35 full-service BELFOR Property Restoration offices in eight provinces. The London office serves all of St. Thomas and Elgin County. They offer a variety of services and solutions for properties damaged by water, fire, storm and mould.

Common Ground Farm 6986 Middle River Road St. Thomas, ON N5P 3S9 Phone: 519-777-6383 Website: www.commongroundfarm.ca Email: chris@commongroundfarm.ca Contact: Chris DeVries, Owner Buyers Guide Categories: Farmer’s Markets, Food Specialties Products & Services: Common Ground Farm is an organic vegetable farm just outside St. Thomas, a short drive from London. They grow delicious produce free of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides throughout the year, so that you get sparkling fresh, just-picked vegetables at the peak of flavour. They have a 100 member CSA (vegetable box or food box program) and sell their vegetables at Western Fair market in London all year and Horton Market in St. Thomas during the season.

See their website for other on-line purchase options.

September, 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 July 16 – Aug 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.

Dave’s Auto Glass & Accessories 239 Wellington Street St. Thomas, ON N5R 2S6 Phone: 519-633-9191 Email: fixglassforu.dave@gmail.com Contact: Dave Zegers, Owner Buyers Guide Categories: Auto Services, Auto Parts, Auto Repairs, Glass Repairs, Glass Services Products & Services: Dave’s Auto Glass & Accessories offers windshield repairs and replacement, as well as side and rear glass repair and replacement services for all vehicles (transport trucks, heavy equipment, farm etc.), as well as stone chip repairs. They carry a variety of the best accessories to meet your vehicle’s needs, offering you only products that will fit perfectly. For any automotive glass needs, they’re your one stop shop, proudly serving St. Thomas and area for 30 years.

Staples Business Advantage is the leading business supplier in Canada, providing customers with a complete assortment of products and services, including office supplies, technology products, facility solutions, furniture, and business services. As the business-to-business division of Staples, Staples Business Advantage works with companies of all sizes to develop customized programs and to provide dedicated account management to meet the needs of any business. Staples Business Advantage provides many advantages for all business sizes: a customizable online ordering system, excellent customer care, easy-to-browse catalogues, next day delivery capabilities and a dedicated sales organization to meet the needs of every type of business.

Dan Asselin of C&J Memories won a $320 prize at August’s Business After 5. Brent Kidder, left, of Elgin Chrysler is shown awarding Dan a gift certificate for 8 rounds of golf at The Port Stanley Bluffs Golf Club.

Photo courtesy of Spitzky Media

Elmdale Health Centre 25 Elm Street St. Thomas, ON N5R 1H5 Phone: 519-631-6641 Website: www.elmdalehealth.com Email: info@elmdalehealth.com Contacts: Dr. Derek Haruta, Principal; Ms. Charleen Haruta, President Buyers Guide Categories: Health Care Services, Dentists, Pharmacies Products & Services: Elmdale Health Centre is a new local initiative for integrated healthcare designed to attract new physicians to St. Thomas. Located on the site of the former Elmdale Public School, there’s ample free parking and convenient bus and Para transit transportation available.

Services include modern dentistry, chiropody and pharmacy facilities on site, dedicated healthcare staff committed to outstanding care and a collaborative culture among healthcare professionals.

Staples Business Advantage 550 Pendant Drive Mississauga, ON L5T 2W6 Phone: 226-236-1323 Website: www.staplesbusinessadvantage.ca Email: Christopher.cirella@staples.com Contact: Chris Cirella, Business Development Manager Buyers Guide Categories: Business Equipment & Supplies, Office Furnishings & Supplies, Promotional Products, Mailing/Shipping Services, Information Technology Services Products & Services:

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

Pro Text

The threat is real

by Dan Reith

Kidnapping, ransom and extortion may sound like threats straight out of a movie, but they are very real concerns for organizations across Canada.

Not only can the employees of a business be abducted when travelling domestically or abroad, but malicious parties can also threaten an organization’s property.

When kidnapping or extortion occurs, it can be incredibly costly. Even if a ransom is not paid, businesses face expenses associated with negotiations, investigations, legal fees, forensics, security, consultations and public relations.

To protect their employees and assets at home and abroad, companies should consider purchasing kidnap and ransom insurance. This type of coverage is designed to minimize the financial impact of kidnapping, extortion or illegal detainment, and it offers the following unique benefits: • Financial protection. Kidnapping and extortion can cost organizations millions. Without

insurance, organizations would have to pay any costs out of pocket. Financial protection is robust and includes coverage for the ransom and for expenses involved with bringing in third party assistance to deal with the crisis.

• Access to a network of professionals. When kidnapping or extortion occurs, you will need outside experts to step in, assess the situation and plot the best course of action. Many kidnap and ransom policies provide organizations with immediate, priority access to consultants who have extensive experience in dealing with crises. These experts often have knowledge and focus on remedying tense situations in the quickest and safest ways possible.

• Global protection. If your employees travel to different countries on a regular basis, you can’t af-

This column appears regularly in Business Beat and has been submitted by Dan Reith, BA (Hons), CAIB, a partner and Principal Broker in Reith & Dan Reith Associates Insurance and Financial Services Limited, 462 Talbot Street, St. Thomas. Questions and comments on this column are welcomed by the writer at 519-631-3862 or via email: info@reithandassociates.com

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Mark Lassam, CPA, CA 115 Curtis St., St.Thomas, ON N5P 1J4 p: 519-631-1631 | f: 519-631-2929 mark@lassam.ca September, 2017

ford to be without insurance. In most cases, kidnap and ransom policies offer worldwide coverage, ensuring that your organization is protected wherever your workers conduct business.

• Rick mitigation services. While a strong policy can protect you after kidnapping or extortion occurs, preventative measures are equally important and can go a long way in reducing risk. Some kidnap and ransom policies provide organizations with the option to receive on-site audits and workplace training. These services aid in identifying potential exposures and remedying them to limit the risk of kidnapping or extortion.

• Coverages for a variety of threats.

In many cases, coverage may be tailored to cover risks outside of kidnappings and ransoms. Enhanced policies can offer organizations protection against hijackings, cyber extortion, wrongful detention, disappearances, hostage crises, child abductions, express kidnappings, emergency potential deportations, loss of earnings and assaults. If there are specific exposures you wish to have covered, bring them up during the underwriting process.

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

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY OUR COMMUNITY

Take purposeful

PAUSES

throughout life

by Doug Lester

Life has a way of getting our attention – an illness, a storm, a traffic accident, a delay with a project, staff changes, developments in the marketplace, relationship dynamics, new regulations.

Each time that your life and plans are re-arranged you have choices.

1. You can push ahead as if nothing has changed.

2. You can become angry, frustrated and defeated.

OR 3. You can accept the pause as an opportunity.

People who make a difference choose a positive point of view. They see interruptions as part of the natural flow of life and instead of fighting ‘what

is’ they pause, breathe deep, and explore ‘what is trying to happen’ in life, work, and relationships.

Over time, masters of self-leadership don’t wait for the imposed pause. They create their own spaces for increasing awareness.

The Pause is both a skill and a practice. As a skill, it involves specific behaviours that shift awareness, release impediments, increase energy flow, activate deep knowing, and allow Self to lead. As a practice, it is a commitment to pausing each morning and evening and several times during the day.

There is also much to be gained by having longer purposeful pauses several times during the year.

Summer holidays, long weekends, travel, production changes, off-peak times, are not just delays. These are opportunities to take a purposeful

Welcome

pause.

With practice, pauses can be so integrated that they take very little time and can be accommodated into any environment or life circumstance.

Whether you are headed for the boardroom or the battlefield, on the beach with family, or on a gurney headed for the operating room, a deep breath, letting go of judgment, cynicism, and fear, affirming your connection with the Energy of Life, and connecting to the emerging future with optimism and curiosity will allow life to flow for you and positively impact all those in your immediate Circle of Influence.

Go for a walk. Sit in a boat and drift with the waves. Lie on a beach. Daydream about who you are and what you hope to be as a person, in relationships, in your life. Explore your wake.

Whether it seems the pause has been imposed or chosen, you can use life’s interruptions as springboards to being more aware and more effective.

As you experience life this summer look for the gaps. Between the stimulus and the response there is space. Pause, breathe, and use that pause to live on purpose.

Cheryl Lester and Doug Lester. Helping people live and lead on purpose. Coaching; Personal/Professional Development; 12 Step Recovery Circles. Co-authors of 12 Steps of Self-Leadership. differencemakerscircle.com

HAPPY 160TH WES

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Come see us at the Outdoor Farm Show and the IPM! We love meeting our neighbours, and we can’t wait to see you at Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show and the IPM this September in Woodstock and Walton. We’re so proud to serve the rural communities that form the backbone of this province.

Find us on these days!

Outdoor Farm Show, Wednesday, September 13th in the Ontario Mutuals booth (FCC Industry Pavilion)

Call today for your NO CHARGE Consultation 989 Talbot Street, St. Thomas • 519-631-3130

DENTURE CLINIC September, 2017

IPM, Thursday, September 21st in the Ontario Mutuals tent (Mutual Ave. and Third Street)

519-644-1663

ELGIN THIS MONTH

Belmont, ON

www.wmic.ca 17

Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce Buy a home with good resale value

by Jeff Wiebenga

In the real estate market, the saying rings true, ‘Make good choices today so you don’t have regrets tomorrow’. Buying a home with your eyes or your heart doesn’t always add up financially in the long run. Taking the process one step at a time and looking over my tips to help buy a home that will have good resale value is a good start! But working with an experienced and trustworthy realtor who understands your needs is critical to your long term success.

Here are my tips to buying a home with good resale value!

1. Location– this may not be an important factor for you right at the time, however when it comes to selling, the neighbourhood or proximity to amenities can pay off. Top amenities: School, downtown, quiet cul-de-sac or even close to medical services can all be beneficial.

2. Neighbourhood amenities– For families, parks and trails can be a huge drawing feature for resale. Community Complex, pool, activity courts or a seniors’ activity centre can be ideal amenities.

3. Lot size– This is something that you can’t easily change. If you have a family size house but the lot is extremely small it will be difficult to sell. Or if you have a single storey 2 bedroom suited to mature adults but the property is on 1 acre, it will be a challenge for them to maintain. Think strategically about who your buyer is in the long run.

4. Number of bedrooms– Homes with three or more bedrooms tend to sell faster simply because they are suitable for a broader range of buyers. Whether you need that many bedrooms or not, often times you can convert one into a home office, a guest room or additional storage.

5. Storage– Speaking of additional storage, it seems like we are always looking for more storage! Open concept homes today seem to lack much needed storage so ensure you consider where your seasonal clothes will go or vacuum, toiletries, and even your historical financial paperwork.

6. Fundamentals– Consider your HVAC, water heater and the age of your roof before

you purchase. When you are ready to sell, what condition will these items be in or are you going to have to put new ones in? This expense can add up quickly so be smart and realistic about your long term living plan.

These are some great tips to consider and there are always more to consider but working with an experienced realtor will give you added peace of mind when making this type of decision. If you are considering buying or selling or know someone who is, I would love the opportunity and hope you will consider my services.

Jeff Wiebenga is a broker with Showcase East Elgin Realty Inc. brokerage

HA Kebbel Funeral Home Limited

•Home •Auto •Commercial• •Financial

Serving Aylmer since 1961

119 Talbot Street East Aylmer kebbel@eastlink.ca

(519) 773-8400

www.kebbelfuneralhome.com August, 2017

AYLMER 75 Talbot St. E.

ST. THOMAS 581 Talbot St.

PORT STANLEY 289 Bridge Street

TILLSONBURG 128 Broadway

STRAffORdvILLE 9254 Plank Road

226-667-4921

www.hwcinsurance.ca ELGIN THIS MONTH

Services•

info@hwcinsurance.ca 18

Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce CHAMBER OFFICE LOCATION

A reminder that our office location has changed!

Aylmer & Area Chamber of Commerce 51 Talbot Street East Aylmer, Ontario N5H 1H3 Feel free to email aylmerchamber@eastlink.ca if we can be of any help or to schedule a meeting!

Thanks to Showcase East Elgin Realty inc. brokerage for opening your door to the Chamber.

Sweet Aylmer Cornfest

Sweet Aylmer Cornfest was a huge success for downtown merchants, and visitors to the event. Downtown shoppers scooped up some awesome savings at participating businesses. In Balmoral Park, Derrick Drover performed live and kids giggled and bounced through numerous activities after having their faces painted. The local girls’ hockey team cooked up burgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob and made some delicious treats of snow cones and candy floss. With the sun shining and the splash pad flowing, it was a great day to be in downtown Aylmer! Thank you for shopping locally!

Where Home BeginsSM

niversary 40thomAen r Appreci Cust & Bike Sh ation ow C ar

Saturday, Sept 16, 3pm to 6pm

at SUCCESS

Live Music • Charity BBQ • Lots of Kids Activities

REALTY

BROKERAGE

Family Owned & Operated for 40 years!

INDePeNDeNTly oWNeD & oPeraTeD

52 TalboT STreeT eaST, aylmer

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DIVISION OF SUMMERS TIRE SERVICES LTD.

August, 2017

40

ER ICE V

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572 Talbot Street E., Aylmer 773-3141

566 TalboT STreeT, ST. ThomaS 519-633-5570

www.atsuccessrealty.com

PERIOR SU

Mon-Fri 8:00am - 5:00pm, MULTIPLE LISTING SERVICE®

ELGIN THIS MONTH

Sat. 8:00am - Noon

19

 Women in Business  What do others think of an assertive female?

Does it matter?

by Genevieve Scarfone

Starting a business is difficult.

It’s hard work, long hours, and little pay. It’s sacrificing time with friends and family, missing events, or cancelling plans.

None of this is new information. This is something any entrepreneur will tell you. What I’ve learned is that being a woman in business means being unapologetically yourself. Being passionate, strong, determined, creative, driven, diligent, bold, and ambitious.

Unfortunately, these qualities can often be misinterpreted for brash, aggressive, cold, rude, arrogant, or pretentious. In other words, you’re a bitch.

I’ve been lucky. I’ve spent the last 10 years working in kitchens and never once felt as though I was being treated differently because I am a woman. I worked hard, learned everything I could, and always felt like one of the crew. I believe a job well done is rewarded with a pay cheque, you should never stop striving to make things better, and going above and beyond should be a standard work practice.

It was a few years ago when I had a co-worker say that working with me was intimidating when

we first met. I remember thinking “Me? That’s crazy! I’m just this tiny little thing. My friends are going to laugh when they hear this!”

As it turns out, this is a very common feeling when people first work with me. Why? Because when I’m working, I’m focused. Like anyone in a position of leadership, you are doing one job, planning the next, and thinking about something else. In my case this is usually improvement on recipes or new product ideas. I’m not there to chit chat or praise you for a job well done on every task.

Does this make me a bad person? Not at all.

It can however get perceived by some in a negative way. It seems, to me at least, to be almost expected of men in leadership roles to demonstrate these qualities. Being efficient, decisive, confident, and when needed the “bad guy”. For men, it’s part of the job.

So why is one the boss and one the bitch? This is something I still have yet to figure out.

What I have figured out is these qualities are what drive success. You are never going to make everyone happy, or see eye-to-eye with every person, or stop getting suggestions from oth-

Ellen Luft of HollisWealth Ellen has been active in the Financial Services Industry since graduating from High School.

She is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, Investment Advisor and Insurance Agent. She provides wealth building solutions for individuals by focusing on all aspects of financial health including saving goals, taxes, estate planning and philanthropy. Ellen takes a very personalized approach to working with her clients, building long term relationships built on trust and a mutual understanding of her client’s goals. Women today lead very busy life styles. Having someone they trust working on their financial goals allows them to get on with the demands of family, business and taking care of self.

Ellen Luft, CFP® Investment Advisor Insurance Agent HollisWealth HollisWealth (a division of Industrial Alliance Securities Inc.) Insurance Agency Ltd. 188 Sunset Drive, Unit 2 St. Thomas, On N5R 3B9 519-631-4088 ellen.luft@holliswealth.com 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. Insurance products provided through HollisWealth Insurance Agency Ltd.

September, 2017

ers who have no idea about your vision for your company. People don’t see the hours and hours spent working on projects or developing new idea and products; they cannot understand why the smallest things can be so important to you.

But these qualities, the ones that keep you going every day, are something to be proud of.

They are embedded in who you are. If they ignite your passion and create success, embrace them. Celebrate them!

Because in the words of Tina Fey, “Bitches get stuff done”.

Genevieve Scarfone is the owner of Seed Confections.

Carrie O’Brien of Doug Tarry Homes

Carrie O’Brien of Doug Tarry Homes has been working for the company for about two years.

Carrie, who is a Land Development Planner, actually started with the company as a co-op student covering a maternity leave.

After studying Environmental Sciences at the University of Western Ontario she attended Fanshawe College for the GIS and Urban Planning program and ended up finding her passion for urban planning after working as a co-op student for the Planning Department in Tay Township.

O’Brien, a board member of YWCA St. Thomas Elgin, explains she loves the opportunity to create “vibrant and sustainable communities” while working with various organizations within St. Thomas and surrounding area. Among her current projects, she is work with various groups in St. Thomas to create a continuous multi-use trail throughout the City; the south path portion of the Project is nearing completion.

Looking forward to our newest subdivisions coming soon -

Harvest Run and Millers Pond.

Carrie O’Brien

Land Development Planner 519-631-9300 ext 26 carrieobrien@dougtarryhomes.com www.dougtarryhomes.com

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 20

 Women in Business 

You develop your own Storyline and Hero

by Cheryl Lester

The story of your life and work is not yet finished.

It is in process. You are the author of your own Hero’s Journey. You get to choose how the main character — the Hero, you — develops.

Make your Hero a vibrant, life-giving, positive change agent. A person grounded in a deep knowledge and understanding about Self, who intentionally self-directs the discovery, development, and utilization of the unique and rich resources their FISC™ (Facts, Influences, SoulDNA, Characters).

As the author of your story and developer of your Hero, picture this — you, standing between two opposing representations of ‘you.’

One is vibrant, confident, strong, powerful, grounded, joyful, happy, glowing, successful.

The other, hollow, doubtful, weak, frail, afloat, dispirited, angry, dull, lackluster.

Now, imagine a point in time where ‘you’, the Hero, are faced with a decision about something — a decision related to your business, work, health, or relationships. Anything. You choose. It can be a big decision, or a small one. One you are faced with now, or anticipate in the future.

Think of at least two possible options or choices related to the decision. Then, experiment and notice. Try each option on ‘for size’. With each option, notice whether it energizes you, moving you

toward a more vibrant version of your Self, or deenergizes you, moving you away from vibrancy toward a hollow, weaker representation.

As a woman, whether you run your own business or work for someone else, you are continually faced with making decisions. Some big. Some small.

Some with weightier consequences. Some less so.

Every choice you make moves you either toward, or away from, your personal and professional potential, and a stronger, vibrant Self.

Moving ‘toward’ is enlivening. It enhances your capacity to be fully present in your life, your work, and your relationships. It strengthens your ability to use your unique FISC (Facts, Influences, SoulDNA, Characters) to increase your confidence, effectiveness, and decision-making. Moving ‘toward’ leverages your experience, your gifts, your personal power. It builds upon itself, laying the foundation for ongoing personal and professional development.

Moving ‘away’ is toxic. It can suddenly or slowly eat away at your resiliency. Shatter your confidence.

Weaken your potential. Reduce your mental, emotional, or physical health and well-being. Create confusion and inconsistency — one moment you’re feeling strong and capable, the next, weak and fearful.

As you continue to self-author your personal and

Karen Vecchio, Member of Parliament for Elgin-Middlesex-London Karen was first elected on October 19, 2015 to represent the riding of Elgin-Middlesex-London in the 42nd Parliament.

Following the election of the Interim Leader, Karen received the role as Official Opposition Critic for Families, Children and Social Development. She is a Member of the Conservative Party Shadow Cabinet; Member of the Status of Women Committee; Chair of the Conservative Social Development Advisory Caucus; Member of the Auto Caucus, Tourism Caucus, Seniors Caucus, Anti-Poverty Caucus, Agricultural Caucus, Great Lakes Caucus, Restaurant and Hospitality Caucus, ALS Caucus, and the Juvenile Diabetes Caucus.

In her role as the Official Opposition Critic, Karen deals with issues related to housing and homelessness, poverty, childcare, as well as issues related to youth and seniors.

professional story, use this simple ‘moving toward or moving away from’ exercise to help you notice which choices will serve to strengthen and energize you (the Hero), and which ones don’t. Then make decisions accordingly.

Remember, you are always in choice. You are the author of your own story, and the developer of your own Hero — you.

Cheryl Lester and Doug Lester. Helping people live and lead on purpose. Coaching; Personal/Professional Development; 12 Step Recovery Circles. Co-authors of 12 Steps of Self-Leadership. differencemakerscircle.com

Stephanie Farrow of Farrow Financial Stephanie Farrow, co-owner of Farrow Financial Services, is a Certified Financial Planner with 25 years of experience in the financial services industry.

Outside of the office, Stephanie proudly wears many other hats, too. She is a mother, wife, speaker, financial services blogger, and financial literacy advocate.

She is an active member of her community, volunteering in several capacities for local organizations about which she is passionate.

Stephanie has been a financial columnist for Elgin This Month since 2010.

Karen’s experience as the Executive Assistant to the former Member of Parliament provided her with a greater understanding of federal government programs and their connection to individuals, not-for-profits and small businesses in the community.

Providing a well-rounded, after tax approach to all your financial planning needs.

In her personal capacity, Karen is married to Mike Vecchio and they have 5 children. She is very proud of her rural roots and strong family core values.

Read Stephanie's blogs at farrowfinancial.ca/blog

Visit our Farrow Financial facebook page

Follow Stephanie on twitter @farrowfinancial

Connect with Stephanie on LinkedIn

Karen Vecchio, Member of Parliament for Elgin-Middlesex-London 203-750 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, ON N5P 1E2 519-637-2255 www.karenvecchiomp.ca September, 2017

14107 Belmont Rd., Belmont, Ontario

519.644.2641

www.farrowfinancial.ca

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

 Women in Business  “Gone Fishing” is actually good for business

by Lisa Jibson

Have you ever driven through a small town on the way up to the cottage and stopped at a little local market, or variety store and saw a “Gone Fishing” sign in the window and thought to yourself, “Really, in your busiest time, you decided to take a holiday?”

Small businesses who are in touch with their businesses growth cycle know that sometimes the smartest thing to do is to take a break and get outside of their business and go hang out with the locals for a few days.

Networking opportunity If your business is seasonal, late spring and summer may be your busiest time and therefore you need to focus on growing your business while the business is there, and plan your holidays when it’s a slow time for you. However, when the rest of the population is on summer holidays, it presents an excellent opportunity to grow your business by networking in a more casual manner.

People are more relaxed and open to getting together for an umbrella drink on a patio, or a cold beer at a barbeque and chatting about what you do.

Sporting events, like a local baseball game, provide an opportunity for you to connect with members of the community that you may not

normally see at your business. Going fishing at the nearest lake and meeting some new people while sharing tall tales about your fishing trip can also connect you with potential clients that you wouldn’t necessarily have met inside your four walls.

Continued on page 25

Brenda Barham CIP of

Hamilton Ward & Cathers Insurance A resident of Aylmer, Brenda joined HWC Insurance in February, 2015. Brenda has worked for both insurance companies and brokerages during her career. Brenda is an accredited Certified Insurance Professional and is continuously updating with insurance courses to stay on top of changing regulations to best serve the client. Brenda’s years of experience and insurance knowledge have been valuable to both our existing and new customers.

Stop by our St. Thomas office at 581 Talbot St., call or email Brenda at bbarham@hwcinsurance.ca for a review of your insurance needs.

AYLMER ST. THOMAS PORT STANLEY TILLSONBURG STRAffORdvILLE 226-667-4921 www.hwcinsurance.ca

September, 2017

info@hwcinsurance.ca

Lisa Jibson owns Ross Street Agency in St. Thomas.

Kathryn Weisler of Elgin Transmission

Kathryn relocated from London to St. Thomas almost 20 years ago, with three young children in tow, to work side-byside with her husband Jamie. Together, they worked hard to open a small business known as Elgin Transmission.

Kathryn brings a lot to the table when it comes to their business. She has an Accounting Business Diploma, which she obtained from Fanshawe College, and has also completed Level 4 of the Certified Management Accounting Program.

Her education and experience has afforded her the necessary skills to perform a variety of tasks within the company, from office administration and customer service to bookkeeping and tax preparation.

Kathryn believes the key to the longevity and success of Elgin Transmission is a mix of customer service and satisfaction, based on a sound work ethic built on honesty and integrity.

633-3134

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

Wildflowers Farm

Joy Yoga Studio

Succs on the Beach

t the flowers ve, nestled in amongs Along a tree lined drim store, home of Wildflowers Tea and apiary sits a far m store also hosts Wildflowers and Honey. The far practice, which offers Yoga, Wellness, a holistic one wellness consultations, ga Meditation and one on list and Ayurvedic Yo with Registered Herba . gri Ma e Jan r, cto tru ins

our local Joy Yoga Studio helps joy by ir the d community fin classes of y iet var e wid offering a and e ibl to make yoga access le. ab afford

y “SBEC supported Jo g in vin lie be by dio Yoga Stu our our vision of providing dio stu ga yo community with a d an e, on ery ev d that welcome ies nit rtu po op nt gra providing and mentorship.”

Jane Magri

a Succs on the Beach isof l ful p sho le litt magical made succulent plants, handlocally pottery and other crafted wonders.

“With the help of the rise Small Business Enterp e to abl en be e hav I Centre ting and greatly improve marke on the production for Succs SBEC the h wit g rkin Beach, wo with is always like working friends.”

“The SBEC has been invaluable in our business, from inception to expansion. Their support, mentorship and expertise have helped guide us along the path throughout the years, which emulates their continuous support of seeing local small businesses thrive. We are so grateful to have this support so close to home!”

www.Wildflowerstea.c

om

Elgin/St. Thomas Small Business Enterprise Centre Our Mission: “Creating an ecosystem where small businesses in Elgin County and St. Thomas can connect, learn and grow their business.”

Michelle Meszaros

Instagram: @succsont hebeach Facebook: Succs On The Beach

www.joy-yoga-studio.com

Elgin Harvest

519.631.1680 ext 4503

to plant, tend Elgin Harvest’s goal is inary landscape and preserve the cul using a woodthat is uniquely Elgin fired pizza oven. en me has be SBEC ing clarify “The lp e ing h lm in e l h a ment overw instru metimes) rching and o the (s when resea locally ga tasks cept.” mentin imple usiness con b d e focus

Cindy Bircham

www.ElginHarv

est.ca

September, 2017

Carly Ryan

tmccaulley@sbecinnovation.ca

Seed Confections A small batch, hand olate crafted, artisan choc y any. mp co s on and confecti

Boxcar Shoes

ed e locat w stor We believe e n a is .

Shoes e carry homas Boxcarwntown St Tany age so w o t right d be active ar everyone. n fo you ca shoes

“From their help with business plan writing, to applying and obtaining grants, to connecting with other businesses and local events; it’s hard to pinpoint where SBEC has helped me the , say most. I can honestly all without them my sm business would not be thriving the way is it.”

Gen Scarfone

www.seedconfections.com

“The SBEC has helped me with business planning, marketing and just being a great resource for a new downtown business.”

Terri Biloski

s car Shoe x o B : k o Facebo

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 23

 Women in Business  The cost of being sick as a small business owner

by Lisa Jibson

2017 started off with the potential to be a great year. I decided to ring in the New Year with a vacation to the Dominican Republic. That one week of sun and relaxation turned into five weeks of being sick, very sick. I had everything from a stomach bug to a cold, which turned into the flu, which then migrated into a severe bacterial throat and chest infection. In a short time, I was dealing with the ‘real costs’ of being sick for over a month as a small business owner.

Financial costs of being sick It is very expensive to get sick these days. A simple trip to the pharmacy or drug store to buy cold and flu pills, cough syrup, Kleenex, ginger ale, soup, cough candies, tea, vitamins, Vicks, nose spray, Advil or Tylenol can leave your wallet about $60 lighter. If you do that a couple of times over the course of a few weeks, your bad cold/flu has now cost you around $200, and that does not include the price of any antibiotics. Most small business owners do not have any type of drug plan or medical coverage, so being sick can get extremely expensive.

Customer loss to your business If your business is a sole proprietorship and you get sick, there is no one to run your business for you.

While you are home in bed with a fever and coughing uncontrollably, your clients are wondering where

you are. And while you have every intention to send out notes to your clients and tell them, in reality you barely have the energy to roll over. If you are sick for more than a week, this can have a great impact on your business as your clients will assume you have other things to do than to stay in touch with them.

Facebook and LinkedIn need an “I’m sick” button that you can add to your business page that you can try and click between coughing spasms.

Real costs of being sick Suffering from a severe cold also comes with other very real costs – the most important one is time. Every day that you are sick you get more behind on answering emails, completing projects, staying engaged on social media, selling your product or service and marketing yourself to the business community. Time is the one thing that is almost impossible to get back after being sick. For a sole entrepreneur, having someone who can step in when you can’t is something you might want to arrange, but realistically, you just need to pick up the pieces and start again once you are on the mend.

Planning for the inevitable Unfortunately, getting sick is inevitable and it’s a little more bearable if you put some simple strategies into place. There are some inexpensive drug coverage options for small business owners like Green Shield, Flex Care and Blue Cross.

Continued on page 25

Janna Summers of Aylmer Tire

Lisa Jibson owns Ross Street Agency in St. Thomas.

Katherine Englander HR Partners 4 Business

Janna is the 3rd generation of her family at the helm of the family business, Aylmer Tire. Janna’s grandparents, Lyle and Marie Summers started the business in 1977 with Mike and Lynn Summers running the business for the past 20 years. Aylmer Tire is celebrating their 40th Anniversary this year!

Janna has been the past President of the St. Thomas, Elgin United Way and has been involved with getting the Aylmer Spash Pad installed, the East Elgin Community Complex, Aylmer Corner Cupboard, ELP Environmental Leadership Program at EESS, has supported minor sports and has been involved numerous community charitable events.

Aylmer Tire was proud to accept the Aylmer Chamber of Commerce Business Award of Excellence in 2013 and continues to be a strong part of the Aylmer Chamber of Commerce.

Join us for our 40th Anniversary Customer Appreciation Car & Bike Show Saturday, September 16, 3pm - 6pm Live Music, BBQ & Kids Activities

Katherine Englander is the founder of Human Resources Partners 4 Business. Through her company, Katherine and her associates offer personalized and customized HR services to employers such as managing absenteeism, developing policies to be reactive or proactive, developing customized training, managing discipline, lay-offs, and terminations. She and her associates offer full HR services without long term contracts or obligations. They can do an assessment of your company needs or an ‘audit’ to determine how to increase your profitability and productivity through effective utilization of your employees. There is no cost for an initial meeting. Katherine is an active member of the local and Ontario HR Professionals and has combined over 30 years of experience in HR experience with business, and management experience to steer the company. Her education includes a BA from Western, a Certificate in HR Management and an HR Business Partner Certificate. She stays up to date through ongoing regular contact with the Ministry of Labour and several employment lawyers, and she teaches part time in the HR Program at Fanshawe.

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572 Talbot Street E., Aylmer • 773-3141

Human Resources Business Par tners

Mon-Fri 8:00am - 5:00pm, Sat. 8:00am - Noon September, 2017

4

Katherine Englander, BA, Cert HR Mgmt, HRBP HR Consultant/Contractor HR Partners 4 Business 519-494-2936 www.hrp4b.com

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 24

 Women in Business 

Use your time to review and assess if you are heading in the right direction Continued from page 22 Just remember to keep your business cards handy.

Taking a step If the clients who normally use your business take holidays in the summer, then it makes good business sense for you to use that time to take a step back, take an aerial view of your business and review your past two business quarters to make sure you are heading where you want to go and assess if you have been meeting all of your goals, both financial and personal.

The break in new business allows you a chance to re-connect with previous clients, lay some plans for the fall and winter, and get caught up on administrative details you may have let slip.

Self-preservation I am fairly new to this small business adventure, but in talking with others who are in various stages of their small business growth cycle, we all seem to have the same thing in common: we work 25 hours a day.

We try and be the salesperson, the

marketing assistant, the social media guru, the bookkeeper, the HR manager, the boss and the chief customer service advisor. We think that by having others help us run our businesses, we are somehow less successful.

What we really are is more exhausted and less motivated.

Taking a break during your businesses natural down time, regardless what time of the year that is, is a really smart business plan. Small business owners aren’t superheroes – we need to rest, and re-charge our batteries too.

Consider this a public service announcement – Go get yourself a “Gone Fishing” sign and head to the lake to relax, and grow your business.

The Elgin Business Resource Centre Celebrates all Women in Business.

Saving each month for a rainy-day or sick day fund is smart planning Continued from page 24 The Ontario Government also has the Trillium Drug Care Plan. All Ontarians who have valid Ontario Health Insurance (OHIP) and are a resident of Ontario can register in the TDP so long as they comply with requirements set out in the regulations under the Ontario Drug Benefit Act (ODBA), have private insurance which does not cover 100% of prescription drug costs and are not eligible for drug coverage as another category of recipient under the ODB program. There is a small deductible for each use and it covers approximately 3,800 types of drugs.

Saving a little money each month into a “rainy-day or sick day fund” is also smart planning. If you are sick for more than a week, chances are you are not going to bring in the same income as you normally do. By saving money during your healthy months, you will have a little buffer to get you through the times that all you can do is sleep and take your Buckley’s.

August, 2017

EBRC’s Women in Business

(from left to right): Laura Morden, Brittany Trudel, Lisa King, Cindy Hertwig, Olivia Vaseleniuck and Lindsay Kamermans. (Absent Janice Henwood)

519-633-7597

www.elgincfdc.ca

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 25

 Women in Business  Excellent books on workplace gender imbalance

by Amanda Devries

Running your own business means learning as you go. To that end, I’ve read many books, on varied topics, from self-marketing to design inspiration to colour theory. Some of the most memorable books I’ve read have been written by women. I’ve selected three favourites below and I hope this might spur you on to further reading: My original training was in electrical engineering, which was and still is a fairly male-dominated field. In the past, this would pose a problem for women as they may have suffered chauvinism and harassment in a gender-unbalanced workplace. But by the time I was in postsecondary school, I found the doors and barriers to be wide-open: my classmates and professors treated all of us as equals, and despite my being one of only 8 females out of 80 students, our class was very much on equal footing. So if an unfair work environment is no longer common, then why the continued gender imbalance in maledominated fields? The Sexual Paradox by Susan Pinker explores one theory. She writes that now that women have fought for so long to remove the glass ceiling, it turns out the majority of females don’t think of a career as the only means

to life fulfillment. It is normal – indeed common – for highly educated women to scale back their professions once they begin having children. So even though the race is now pretty equal in many ways, it turns out it’s not a race many women want to join. Part of her reasoning is Jennifer qualified as a Chartered that even though Professional Accountant in 2010 and is the workplace is no a graduate of the University of Ottawa, longer openly hostile with a Bachelor of Commerce, Honours in to women, there is a Accounting. Jennifer has over 10 years of still a fair amount of experience in public accounting providing unconscious gender discrimination and assurance, accounting, taxation and related preference for male services to a variety of small to medium sized qualities as a measure businesses, organizations and municipalities. for success that conJennifer joined the St. Thomas office of Graham Scott Enns as tinue to put women a Manager in 2015. She and her family, husband Ryan, girls at a disadvantage and Riley and Erin moved to St. Thomas last year. sometimes the fight Graham Scott Enns LLP serves clients throughout southern just doesn’t seem Ontario from offices in St. Thomas and Aylmer. In addition to worth it. providing the core services of assurance and tax, our team also Where Susan Pinkconducts business consulting, business plan development, er leaves off, Lean In financing proposals, business acquisition and divestiture

by Sheryl Sandberg advice, and various other advisory services. GSE takes pride does a fantastic job in investing the time and effort to understand its clients needs of picking up. The COO of Facebook and provide services at a truly personal level. explores many facets of the current corporate climate and how it does a disservice to women, even men, of certain temperaments. That a man ST. THOMAS 519-633-0700 AYLMER 519-773-9265 is praised, respected 450 Sunset Dr. St. Thomas 25 John St. S Aylmer even, for his aggreswww.grahamscottenns.com sive tendencies but

Jennifer Buchanan, CPA, CA of Graham Scott Enns LLP

September, 2017

a woman’s greatest asset is that she is “nice” certainly makes scaling the corporate ladder difficult for females. The push to work longer and harder – rather than prioritize family just as much as the workplace – also places further stress on anyone, but particularly women, who want to focus on their children during their formative years. Sandberg does a great job advocating very specific policy changes workplaces can implement immediately that can even out the playing field without having to resort to affirmative action.

The Female Brain by Louann Brizendine is just one of those books that everyone has to read.

Seriously! I texted the book cover to a friend of mine urging her to read it after I was only on page 45. Brizendine says that even though 99.5% of human DNA is the same between males and females, hormone levels and when and how much we produce of them has anything and everything to do with how we maintain relationships, make decisions, and react during stress. She also points out that there is almost no clinical data on females (a colleague admitted they never use female animals during studies because menstruation would make things more complicated), and yet there is so much valuable information to gain when understanding the differences between the sexes.

So, if you are interested in learning more about women in business, these titles should do a great job of getting you started. Happy reading!

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

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 26

 Women in Business  A delightful reunion with former colleagues

by Anouschka Van den Bosch

Early this summer a group of people gathered at a public park to cook hamburgers, share the food that they had brought and laugh a lot. Nothing out of the ordinary except if you had listened to snippets of conversations you would have heard “Remember when…” “Oh I can’t believe he did that” and “So what are you doing now?”

This group of people who came together from across Southwestern Ontario were my former colleagues. We worked together almost 20 years ago in a retail store. We watched our store being built from the ground up and most of us were interviewed in a trailer as the store was just a shell of metal framing at that time. Many of us were there for a long time and we pretty much “grew up” together.

Relationships formed that turned into marriages and children. Careers were started, experiences gained, and, more than anything, friendships were created that lasted for years. We have our own Facebook page, and we keep in touch by posting pieces of information about weddings and, sadly, funerals.

Most of us are connected outside of our store Facebook page as friends as well, and we continue to have conversations since our reunion. We all felt that the hours we spend together were not enough, and some of us will have separate visits with each other throughout the year until we meet again as a

group next year.

The comments after our reunion were all similar. We felt that it was so easy to pick up where we had left off. We were all older and maybe even wiser. We had gone through hardships, retirement, job losses, new jobs etc. But there we were. Sharing memories, looking at photo albums and truly cherishing what we had together.

So, what was it? What kept us all connected over 20 years? There is a lot of talk about organizational cultures, diversity, relationship building, and I am sure that was all true back then as well.

The former store manager and I talked about this at the reunion for a bit, and what we decided it was because of the group of people that were hired at that time.

We were all eager to learn, we had experiences that would fit the store’s needs, and we had attitude. Customer service attitude, working together attitude, “getting it done” attitude. We were proud of our new store. We wanted to look good for our customers and provide great customer service and more than anything we knew how to have fun.

Listening to the conversations that afternoon, we enjoyed our jobs because of the time we spend together having fun.

There were days, as in any job, that were long and

Nicole Ooms of Doug Tarry Homes

After graduating from Fanshawe College in 2010 as a Certified Planning Technician and studying Urban Planning at Western University, Nicole obtained a full-time position with Doug Tarry Limited. Seven years later, she is still loving being part of the organization.

In this position, she works directly with consultants, engineers,legalprofessionals,municipalstaff,contractors and other planning professionals to move the company’s conceptual subdivision layouts from undeveloped land to registered lots through phased development.

There are many exciting projects coming up for Doug Tarry Ltd. and Nicole is happy and proud to be a part of the team at this exciting time!

In addition to her work with Doug Tarry Ltd. and home life with two busy girls, Nicole sits on the Board of Directors for St. Thomas-Elgin YWCA and the Shedden Agricultural Society.

Nicole Ooms – Planner

519-631-9300 ext 22 nicoleooms@dougtarryhomes.com www.dougtarryhomes.com September, 2017

tiring; however, there was always someone to make you feel better and make you laugh again. We understood the frustrations that may arise when dealing with the public every day. We had each others’ backs. We covered for each other.

For me it was the training ground for the rest of my career. I learned to work long hours, to be patient and listen to complaints. I learned to make decisions, and if it was the wrong decision I was not reprimanded, just reminded how I could have done it differently. I was given room to grow and opportunity to learn and become passionate about human resources and helping people.

Continued on page 28

Karin Rimnyak (formerly Barrie) of Action Financial Group - HollisWealth

Karin Rimnyak of Action Financial Group HollisWealth has been a financial planner for 22 years, helping people save, invest, grow and protect and use their money to achieve their short and long term goals. As an independent advisor, Karin has access to products from a range of mutual funds, stocks and bonds, ETF’s, GIC’s and insurance providers. This gives her the opportunity to choose financial products from a variety of companies to provide financial plans with the best interests of her clients in mind. Karin is committed to the next generation of Financial Planners by mentoring Associate Investment Advisors.

Karin is involved in the community by volunteering and supporting many local agencies including St. Thomas Public Library, Second Stage Housing, United Way, Violence Against Women Services Elgin County, YWCA and St. Thomas Elgin General Hospital.

Karin Rimnyak, MBA, CLU®, CFP®, R.F.P. Investment Advisor Insurance Advisor HollisWealth HollisWealth Insurance (a division of Industrial Alliance Securities Inc.) Agency Ltd. 519-631-4724 • 1 Silver St., St. Thomas, Ont N5P 4L8 • karinrimnyak@holliswealth.com This information has been prepared by Karin Rimnyak (formerly Barrie) who is an Investment Advisor for HollisWealth® and does not necessarily reflect the opinion 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 newsletter 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. Action Financial Group is a personal trade name of Karin Rimnyak. Insurance products provided through HollisWealth Insurance Agency Ltd. The Investment Advisor can open accounts only in the provinces where they are registered. For more information about HollisWealth, please consult the official website at www.holliswealth.com.

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 27

 Women in Business  What keeps us connected... 20 years later

Continued from page 27 So, if I were to sum up what makes a great team of people still coming together after 20 years, the list would include honesty, reliability, and great attitude together with a strong work ethic. We respected each other, and we would be straightforward and honest. I knew where I stood with my team in my own department as well as the rest of the store. Sure, there would be times when someone would call in last minute to cancel a shift and there would be a bit of a scramble to fill the shift but someone always came through.

And I also remember times when we needed staff to work late for a certain project, we would all step up to the plate and be there. But more than anything I remember the fun, the laughter, the absolute silliness while still getting the job done. I can’t wait to see them all again next year and pick up where we left off.

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

How many hours do people really work in a day?

by Laura Pavilonis and Nancy Annett

The American National Bureau of Economic Research recently conducted a study that indicates that working long working hours is not actually productive. There seems to be a drop in productivity associated with longer hours. Remember the old adage that work expands to fill the time allotted? This survey found that people may spend 50 minutes per day on non-workrelated activities. And nobody works at the same level of productivity if the day is too long.

Another study completed by Paychex that looked at 2,000 full-time employees in a variety of industries across the U.S, indicated that approximately one in every 10 middle and upper managers wastes three or more hours per work day.

Below is a list of some of the most popular unproductive workplace activities: 1. Reading news websites - 1 hour 5 min 2. Checking social media - 44 min 3. Discussing non-work-related things with coworkers - 40 min 4. Searching for new jobs - 26 min 5. Taking smoke breaks - 23 min 6. Making calls to partners/ friends - 18 min 7. Making hot drinks - 17 min 8. Texting or instant messaging - 14 min

Debbie Hamilton & Associates Ltd. Unit 1-17 King St. Aylmer, ON 519-765-3636

555 Talbot St. St. Thomas, ON 519-633-3600

Debbie Hamilton is a Financial Advisor at The Co-operators and has been with the company 18 years. She began her career in St. Thomas in 1999 and expanded her business to open a second office in Aylmer in 2009.

Debbie is passionate about giving back to the community; her handpicked team shares her values and is always willing to go the extra mile for clients. She’s achieved numerous awards in sales and customer service over the years and is particularly proud of being honoured with the Community Achievement Award in 2015.

Her efforts in the community have inspired her to obtain a certificate in Counselling of Women to use in her volunteerism.

9. Eating snacks - 8 min 10. Making food in office - 7 min Why are employers going with the eight-hour work day? Who decided eight hours was best? It originated by simply dividing the 24 hours in the day to 8 hours of work, 8 hours of recreation and 8 hours of rest. There was no real scientific evidence to suggest that that this is the most productive way to organize a day.

We would suggest an outcomes approach where people are paid for the outcomes they complete.

This would allow employees to take the breaks they might need to be the most productive or break work into chunks that can be focused and efficient. It also increases autonomy which we know is linked to engagement and creates better work / life balance which we know is the way of the future for the next generation of workers.

Like it or not, either we shift our thinking or we don’t compete.

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

Mayor Heather Jackson of the City of St. Thomas Mayor Heather Jackson has done wonderful things for the City of St. Thomas since her victory in 2010. As Mayor and the head of the City Council, Mayor Heather acts as chief executive officer of the municipality and presides over council meetings so that its business can be carried out efficiently and effectively. She also provides leadership to the council and provides information and recommendations to the council with respect to the role of council and represents the municipality at official functions. Mayor Heather Jackson is also involved with many committees such as the St. Thomas Elgin Public Art Centre, Elgin St. Thomas Public Health, St. Thomas Elgin Community Leaders’ Cabinet and on the Board of Directors of the St. Thomas Seniors’ Centre. As mayor, Heather fosters activities that enhance the economic, social and environmental well-being of the municipality and its residents.

Debbie is looking forward to continuing to service her clients in the St. Thomas and Aylmer areas for many years to come.

Mayor Heather Jackson City of St. Thomas, P.O. Box 520, 545 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, ON N5P 3V7 Email: mayor@stthomas.ca City Hall Tel: 519-631-1680 ext. 4131

September, 2017

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

Women in Business Elgin Business Women’s Network Experience the support and excel at work

by Petrusia Hontar

As a woman in business, be it as an entrepreneur or as part of a company, the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance can seem overwhelming. It’s at this point that the support network you have established for yourself can give you the boost you need to push on and excel in your work. This is where the Elgin Business Women’s Network can

step in. Members from this group of women are often actively experiencing or have navigated the trials and tribulations that are frequently tackled alone.

The group meets monthly in different venues across the County and in St. Thomas. It offers a blend of networking opportunities, facilitated discussions on business related topics, guest speakers, and most important, a venue to meet like-minded women from the community.

The administration team has strategically chosen to vary the format of the monthly meetings to meet the diverse needs of women interested in joining a networking group.

One signature event is the Open Mic night, where participants have the microphone for 5 minutes, half to share information about their business, half to take questions from the audience. Even long-term members have been able to pro-

Alison Robison of

Kim Ariesen of Studio Style

Hamilton Ward & Cathers Insurance

Ladies Apparel & Accessories

Kim started Studio Style in Port Stanley in July, 2008 with over 30 years of retail experience already under her designer belt.

Studio Style specializes in high end women’s clothing and accessories and offers fresh Canadian collections from Robert Kitchen, Simon Chang, Fresh FX and Parkhurst sweaters, as well as European fashions. Kim had a strong clothing design background, which helps her colour co-ordinate and give her customers the best possible choices and advise.

Kim is a strong community supported staying involved with the Port Stanley Festival Theatre, Bridges of Out Poverty and the Thyroid Foundation. She holds her annual sweater event in support of the Port Stanley Festival Theatre.

Visit the Studio for Summer Sales and new Fall Arrivals.

Alison moved to St. Thomas in September, 2015 when she joined the team at HWC Insurance. She has over a decade of insurance experience and is enjoying being a part of our wonderful community.

Alison is currently working towards her Certified Insurance Professional accreditation. With Alison’s Marketing background and experience in Commercial Insurance, Alison specializes in a wide range of commercial products at HWC and is dedicated to providing exceptional customer service, Alison is available to service all your insurance needs. Feel free to stop by our St. Thomas office at 581 Talbot St., call or email Alison at arobison@hwcinsurance.ca

AYLMER 215 Main Street, Port Stanley 519-782-7467 www.studiostyle.ca September, 2017

vide more insight into the work they do, and this event is one of the most impactful for relationshipbuilding for the group.

Other topics from this past year include: Customer Service Tips, Facebook and Mailchimp, Networking Follow-up, and a celebration of personal and professional success.

One of the network’s exuberant participants, Hetty Teuber, has been a long-time member. “From the onset, EBWN has been a very friendly, welcoming and interesting networking group. I love the chance to get to meet other business women from the area and share our concerns and issues. Silverthorn Landscape Supplies and myself personally have benefitted from our years with the group. It has grown and changed over the years but has always remained a strong and supportive group. I look forward to many more functions with EBWN.” The diversity of the group is demonstrated in the make-up of the administration team.

Continued on page 30

ST. THOMAS PORT STANLEY TILLSONBURG STRAffORdvILLE 226-667-4921 www.hwcinsurance.ca

ELGIN THIS MONTH

info@hwcinsurance.ca

29

Women in Business Elgin Business Women’s Network Experience the support and excel at work Continued from page 29 The representative from the West of the County, and the longest serving Admin member, Yvonne Brooks, has a long-running upholstery business plus two smaller businesses to fill in her free time.

The Events Coordinator, Candice Van Diepen, hones her skills from her event planning and photography business.

The Social Media member, Ainslee Tracey, “sells St. Thomas” and finds time to connect despite the current realty boom.

Marna Berry, a travel agent, keeps our members happy in her role as the Member Relations Representative.

A local art gallery owner, Christie Brown, is stepping into the role of Treasurer.

I serve as the Secretary and the acting Website Administrator, whereas in my professional work, I coordinate a local community capacity building project.

Our network accepts and welcomes all business women who find themselves needing to build their local sup-

port network.

Don’t just take our word for it! We encourage anyone interested in joining the group to come out as a guest and experience it for yourself.

For more information about our upcoming events, check out our website www.ebwn.ca.

Photo credits for the EBWN pages: CVD Photography, a division of CVD Event Studio, cvdeventstudio@ outlook.com, 519-615-7757.

Petrusia Hontar is the Secretary of Elgin Business Women’s Network, and acting Website Administrator.

Noël Wright, R.Ac. Acupuncture Physical Medicine

Noel integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Acupuncture, Japanese acupuncture and Trigger point needling to treat acute and chronic pain as well as common imbalances caused by stress. These can include insomnia, anxiety, depression, digestive complaints, hormonal imbalances and fertility. Noel practices acupuncture at C.A.R.E. Chiropractic and Acupuncture in St. Thomas as well as Peak Mobility in London. For a free 15 minute phone consultation call now!

Acupuncture is covered by most insurances.

Noël Wright

170 Wellington Street, St. Thomas C.A.R.E. 519-633-1444 PEAK MOBILITY 519-850-7321

www.noel-wright.com

Angela Baker of AH Design

Melanie Ayerst of Waterfront Vinyl by Mel

Angela has been in the Design and Cabinetry business for over 20 years, with experience with working with builders, renovators and homeowners. Whether the project is a full scale renovation or a smaller size project, she is here to assist you one on one. Plenty of cabinetry and countertop options to choose from that she can supply for you, or simply designing the space and supplying a floorplan is an option as well.

Angela Baker AH Design Kitchen & Bath Cabinetry & Interior Design

(519) 637-3909 www.ahdesigns.ca • angiesworld72@yahoo.ca AH Design

September, 2017

ELGIN THIS MONTH

I started my business because I love to create things. I run the before and after school program at New Sarum PS (5th year) and needed something to keep me occupied in between my shifts. I love bringing people’s ideas to life.

I specialize in personalized clothing, drinkware, gift items and I work with customers to achieve the perfect match to their needs for personal orders and special gifts.

I am active in the community by organizing and operating an annual walk to raise funds in memory of my grandfather to help fight against IPF. Located in Port Bruce, just minutes from Aylmer.... Serving Elgin county, Middlesex and Oxford county and we ship worldwide!

Melanie Ayerst Waterfront Vinyl by Mel

www.facebook.com/Waterfrontvinylbymel email - melzie2010@live.ca cell: 519-200-6185

30

Women in Business Elgin Business Women’s Network Experience the support and excel at work

Kelly Franklin of Farmtown Canada

Ainslee Tracey of Royal LePage Triland As a full time, full service Realtor I pride myself in offering residential and commercial real estate transactions processed in an efficient and professional manner.

Founder, visionary, speaker, advocate helping girls, teen encountering issues of: mental unwellness, anxiety, self harm, dissociation, even human trafficking. Farmtown Canada uses horses that heal programs and supports. Kelly credits business success on volunteers, friends, faith, staff and horses. “Make it your business to ensure girls find positive outcomes of hope when there isn’t any”. Her hashtags state #eyesonourgirls and #sheisnotforsale echoing safety through speaking and networking. Help Kelly provide more resources for girls who need it now.

Kelly Franklin Farmtown Canada 46703 Mapleton Line, Aylmer ON, N5H 2R6 office/farm 519 773-2292 (voice mail) kelly@farmtowncanada.ca | www.farmtowncanada.ca

Sonya Janisse of Fresh Approach Fitness

Give me a call to find out how I can help you find the perfect house to come home to!

I live in St. Thomas, I know St. Thomas, I SELL St. Thomas.

Ainslee Tracey - Broker Royal LePage Triland Direct: 519-636-5717 www.iSellStThomas.com Ainslee@ISellStThomas.com

Christie Brown of Illumine Gallery

Sonya Janisse.... ”An energetic, athletic, mother who leads by example as a Personal Trainer, making fitness fun while promoting active living & healthy eating.”

What makes us different? ... our training style, our accessibility and our results!

When working with Fresh Approach Fitness the goal is to get you moving, increase your heart rate, build strength through a variety of HIIT style training so you are burning fat over an extended period of time. We encourage clients by making fitness fun; its motivation and inspiration that keeps them going.

Aside traditional training options we also bring wellness to you through our mobile services. We offer individual personal training/ nutritional counselling, small group classes and corporate wellness.

Chase your passion through fitness.

Sonya Janisse, CPT Active Living Specialist

Cell: 705-330-2691 Business: 519-207-2691 Sonya@FreshApproachFitness.ca September, 2017

ELGIN THIS MONTH

Christie Brown has worked hard to bring professional, regional, fine artists together for unique projects. Illumine Gallery is located in downtown St. Thomas in a beautiful heritage building at 364 Talbot street. They enjoy special events every month for the public to enjoy and the website is now e-commerce to make it easier for their clients.

Christie Brown Illumine Gallery

226-376-1111 www.illuminegallery.com www.facebook.com/illuminegallery www.instagram.com/illuminegallery 31

Women in Business Elgin Business Women’s Network Lifetime membership for Irene Puddester

In April, 2013, Aniko Varpalotai presented Irene Puddester with an Honorary Lifetime Membership in Elgin Business Women’s Network (EBWN). The owner/operator of Blueberry Hill Farm in Rodney, Ontario, Irene was one of the original founding members of the Elgin Business Women’s Network.

This is an edited version of Aniko’s presentation to Irene that evening. The full story is on ebwn.ca.

Irene completed the Women in Rural Economic Development (WRED) Programme in 1996.

EBWN is one of the networks which evolved from WRED, set up to help rural women plan and launch their own businesses.

Irene’s story is certainly a lesson in perseverance, taking risks and working hard in order to achieve success and make dreams come true. Irene left a career in Toronto, where she had raised her three boys as a single mother after having been widowed at an early age. She was looking for an alternative to city living and daily commutes.

She had no experience in farming but the blueberry farm was already established and in her words: “I liked the property, the blueberries were here, so we decided that we could make a go of this thing. If I just learned how to grow blueberries and learned how to sell them, then we’d be fine, and that’s just what we did!” She adds, “I guess the independence the farm gives to me is a bonus after having worked so many years for someone else, and knowing that I can handle life having raised three children on my own.” And, “Being a woman in business has never been an easy thing; it has certainly improved a lot in the last few years, and WRED, I think has had a lot to do with it.”

Kathy Cook Noble, Hons. B. Comm, MBA, MPA, MSc

Candice Van Diepen of CVD Event Studio CVD Event Studio offers everything for events!

From back yard BBQ to corporate fundraisers we can create the event of your dreams. We offer photography services and not just for events.

Financial Strategist

Do you love what you do but the numbers scare you?

You’re not alone, most entrepreneurs are great at their business but stressed by the numbers and bookkeeping.

Let us take your stress so you can focus on what you love and do best!

A full financial solutions company that understands what it’s like being a business owner and needing support.

Always a complimentary consultation with custom recommendations.

We enjoy capturing moments for a lifetime of memories and pride ourselves that all our work is completed with our traditional value, modern vibe philosophy. Find us on Facebook for a full list of company services!

Candice Van Diepen CVD Event Studio

519-615-7757 www.cvdeventstudio.com cvdeventstudio@outlook.com www.facebook.com/cvdeventstudio www.facebook.com/cvdphotography

Kathy Cook Noble Hons. B. Comm, MBA, MPA, MSc Financial Strategist 519-857-6776 • kathy@noblecanada.ca

Marna Barry of Legal Shield

Iffat Farooqui of Aroos - Henna (temporary) tattoo

I love the community spirit I share as an Elgin Ambassador, Elgin Business Women’s Network Board of Directors, Cultural Diversity Committee member, founder of the Elgin Business Networking Luncheon and St Thomas & Elgin Chamber Of Commerce Member. I am excited to share LegalShield services with individuals, families, and businesses in my community!!!

LegalShield is a pre-paid legal service made possible by 4.6 million members paying a low monthly rate starting at $23 per/month for comprehensive legal coverage from an entire law firm of professionals.

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

September, 2017

WRED provided her with marketing, bookkeeping and business planning skills. She gained confidence from sharing ideas with the other women in the programme. In her words, “WRED encourages a totally different approach to doing business – it’s okay to work together rather than compete.” Irene also got involved with other organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce and Elgin Tourism where the networking and collaboration with other business owners continued.

It helped that she enjoyed meeting people, “which helps a great deal during harvest time because we have a “You Pick”, and it’s constantly meeting people, and in order to get out and sell, which is something I’ve never been able to do, and I still don’t do it well, but I happen to have a product that is good and people enjoy so it’s not a difficult sell. I certainly couldn’t sell something I didn’t believe in.”

Irene brings both integrity and humility to her business dealings and her relationships.

ELGIN THIS MONTH

Henna/Mehndi is an art form from South Asia and the Middle East, traditionally and culturally applied to ladies and girls to adorn them for social and celebrations such as pre-wedding festivities, Eid & other special occasions. Today, this traditional artform has spread around the world! Weather it is a Birthday Party, Ladies Night, Fundraisers or simply to express yourself, Iffat Farooqui will bring her talent and artistry to the table.

Iffat Farooqui 519-637-1379 | 519-878-5379 Iffatf2001@yahoo.ca 32

September, 2017

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 33

Homestyle Decorating

‘Gallery-ize’ walls with meaningful decor

by Renée Carpenter

Gallery walls have become the rage in the past few years in the decorating world. Not sure how to accessorize a huge, blank wall in your home?

‘Gallery-ize’ it by incorporating large amounts of meaningful décor and family memories on the wall. But there really is a right and wrong way to do this!

For those who aren’t entirely sure as to how to properly plan a gallery wall, a few tips will help prevent it from looking like a sloppy, jumbled mess. I like to break it down into three simple steps.

1. Get personal with your choices. Remembering that this is a wall that is open for viewing by all that visit your home, make sure that the story you tell about your family is about what makes them special. It’s all about what you have to showcase and brag about – your gallery wall to shine and show off the best of those you love. Do not use it to embarrass anyone. This is neither the time nor place. What you choose to include will tell a story about your life and those with you, what their interests are, and what is meaningful to each of you. But get creative. If you are designing the wall for someone in particular, what special interests are involved? Have they won any medals that specific to who they are today? Maybe that first medal that was so fulfilling. This transforms the wall from just being photos to bringing small that fit the style and size of the wall you have. touches together to make it personal and special. Is it horizontal or vertical? How much room do 2. Cohesive colour palettes. All design-oriented you have? Do you have a variety of sizes or are projects require some pre-planning to organize they all uniform in size? Is there furniture to set the right colour palette that works with the room beneath the gallery? If so, always leave 6-8 inches and its surroundings. The photos themselves between the first row you hang and the furniture aren’t so much the colour subject matter as is the piece. One of the most crucial parts of the entire importance in creating a general colour palette in project is to never hang a single piece until you the frames and othhave laid out the entire design er pieces to provide “a few tips will help either on the floor in a space a more cohesive out to the size of the prevent it from looking like mapped look. wall area or on a table. Try a 3. Size can matter. of arrangements until a sloppy, jumbled mess” couple This is where exyou are happy with the results. perimenting comes Once you have determined into play. Numerous layout options can be found your pieces, colour connection, and preferred on Pinterest to see what will best fit on your par- layout, cut out a brown paper pattern of the exact ticular wall. Choose a couple of arrangements size of each piece, marking where the nail should

go to properly hang. Next, tape each brown paper pattern on the wall in its rightful position.

Attach the nail, screw or picture hanger into the wall through the paper and then tear it down and hang your creative piece in its place. It should all then be perfectly hung with the proper spacing, height and consistency as planned in your dryrun layout.

Enjoy your new gallery for years to come. I’m sure your friends and family will!

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

She can be reached at renee@jenningsfurniture.com.

Karen Vecchio, 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 September, 2017

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

BUSINESS & COMMUNITY EMPLOYMENT

A great fit for Railway City Brewing

by Tricia Flatley Elgin Middlesex Oxford Workforce Planning and Development Board

Finding the right employee can be a daunting task, especially if you are a small business owner without a human resources department. However, that was not the case for Railway City Brewing. The food and beverage manufacturer employs over 30 people in roles such as accounting, sales and marketing, production, logistics, retail and packaging and just expanded to the international market. And when it came time for hiring, Controller, Nathan McDaniel said he called Gord Hall, a Job Developer at Employment Services Elgin, for assistance.

“He is my ‘go to’ guy. He knows what type of funding I can get to help off-set some of the costs for hiring and growing the business. He takes the time to understand our company and finds the right candidates that will fit into our company culture. We have a family atmosphere (at Railway City Brewing) and want to have employees who have those same type of values,” said McDaniel.

McDaniel said he also attends local job fairs and will contact Fanshawe College to find employees.

“It’s important to get out into the community and find out who is out there. You never know where you’ll find your next great employee.”

Enter, Elaine Welbourn. Two years ago she had to stop working after being diagnosed with can-

cer. After winning the battle, she was ready to return to work, but didn’t know where to start. She went to Employment Services Elgin, where they taught her how to write her resume, sell herself in an interview and understand what type of skills she could bring to a business. “It felt like everyone in that building was helping me. They knew who were hiring and would give me advice on which businesses I would fit into,” said Elaine.

“Not only do they help you work on the skills to find a job, they also let you know when local job fairs will be held, so you can meet employers who are looking to hire.”

That’s where Elaine and Nathan met.

Elaine was attending a job fair and Nathan was looking for an Accounts Receivable Clerk. She spoke with Nathan who invited her to interview for the position. “It’s not just about having the right skills and experience,” said McDaniel, “while you do need to know how to do the job, it’s your personality that helps us determine if you will be a good fit for the company.

Elaine’s demeanor and passion for wanting to make the company succeed, helped her land the spot at Railway City Brewing.”

It’s that positive, team environment and leadership from the top, which helps Railway City

Brewing continue to grow and expand into new markets. So, the next time you’re planning on hiring, take a look at the resources within your community and you might be surprised at who you’ll find.

Tricia Flatley works in Communications with Elgin Middlesex Oxford Workforce Planning and Development Board.

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ELGIN THIS MONTH

35

Healthy Living Everyday Health

Pack it light, wear it right Choose the right backpack to avoid injury

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

Now that we are nicely back into the school routine, it seems like a good time to review the proper use of backpacks. Backpacks have become the most common school accessory to help in the transportation of the plethora of supplies and personal belongings that our children lug back and forth to school each and every day. They are the most efficient way to transport heavy materials over moderate distances while maintaining the safety of the spine which is why students should be encouraged to carry their gear in a backpack.

If, however, backpacks are not appropriately fitted and loaded, they can lead to back and neck pain.

In fact, wearing a poorly designed or overloaded backpack may have serious and long-lasting consequences for a growing and developing spine.

A heavy backpack carried on one shoulder forces the muscles and the spine to compensate for the uneven weight. This will place stress on the mid and lower back, creating pain in the short term and perhaps increasing the likelihood of back problems later in life. More than 50 percent of young people experience at least one episode of lower back pain by their teenage years. Research indicates that this could be the result, to a great

extent, of improper use of backpacks.

A 2002 study at Queen’s university found that choosing the right backpack and taking care to distribute the weight evenly can make a big difference in avoiding injuries and being pain free. Here are a few pointers to help schoolage children choose an appropriate backpack and load it properly.

Choosing the right backpack 1. Choose a backpack that is proportionate to body size and not larger than what is needed. The top of the backpack should not extend higher than the top of the shoulder and the bottom half should not fall below the top of the hipbone.

2. Select a backpack made of lightweight material (vinyl or canvas instead of leather).

3. The shoulder straps should be at least two inches wide, adjustable and padded. Ensure that they do not cut into or fit too snugly around the arms and arm pits. Poorly designed shoulder straps can dig into the muscles and compress nerves.

4. Look for a padded back for added protection and comfort.

5. A hip strap or waist belt helps to effectively redistribute as much as 50 to 70 percent of the weight off the shoulders and spine into the pelvis, equalizing the strain on the skeleton and muscles.

6. Choose a backpack that has several individual pockets instead of one large compartment. This will help to distribute the weight evenly and keep the contents from shifting.

Continued on page 38

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September, 2017

E L G I N T H I S M O N T H 37

Lifestyle TIME ON MY HANDS A wall section from the ‘glass house’ on Lydia Street in St. Thomas.

The results are in: Our top three tourist attractions!

(Whether you’ve heard of them or not)

by Duncan Watterworth

I’ll tell you up front: the premier tourist attraction in East/Central Elgin is … The Sandy Ridge Pet Cemetery!

But the runners-up were close contenders.

The challenge was for Barb and me to create a one-day tour of local attractions for our friends, two couples from Cambridge, Ont. They had previously done the same for us in their neck of the woods. We focused on East and Central Elgin.

Our first stop was a personal favourite, the Mapleton Taxidermy and Cheese Store, with its splendid display of bears, deer heads, and all manner of stuffed stuff. We bought some horseradish cheddar cheese.

Then north-east of Aylmer to Glencolin Line –

Amish country – to see the buggies, work horses in the fields, and long lines of dark blue laundry.

We stopped at the Mennonite-run Hope EcoFarm store, where a baseball game was being played in the parking lot by girls in bonnets and ankle-length skirts. We bought some water buffalo cheese, made from local herds.

The next stop, in the hushed countryside south of Eden, was the Pet Cemetery. We meandered through the well-maintained grounds, and considered the eclectic gravestones and elaborate plastic-flower displays. Interred among the dogs were a few rabbits, at least one horse, and various other beloved animals. Eight matching gravestones immortalized eight cats.

Although some monuments seemed overly lavish and indulgent, we were all touched by the sincere emotion, petrified in stone. “In loving mem-

ory of our son, a gift from God. 2009-2016,” and, “We are lost without you”.

The cemetery visit was the most memorable and fascinating experience of the day, our guests, all dog owners, agreed.

We drove south through the ravines and sandy fields of Bayham Township, past the Sandytown Variety Store, the derelict tobacco kilns, and the Bible belt-like signs, until we reached the Lake Erie cliff east of Pt. Burwell.

There, something Barb and I called the Grand Canyon of Elgin County had our guests’ cameras flashing. They voted it their third favourite sight of the tour.

A gaping, jagged cleft had eroded back a couple hundred metres from the cliff face, biting deep into a field. Although a lively stream ran in the bottom, there was no surface stream feeding it.

The canyon wall revealed a seven metre thick sandy layer overlying a layer of clay. A wide, underground stream flowed below the sand but on top of the clay, escaping part way down the canyon wall, and maintaining the erosion.

After the canyon, we turned west for a brief tour of Pt. Burwell, a drive-by of the submarine, and a pass-through of Sparta. The magnetic hill west of Sparta was a flop.

Shortly after, photos were taken of Jumbo, and then we stumbled over dirt piles to our future elevated park, and imagined the views to come.

The big finish of the tour was the “glass house” on Lydia Street, which enchanted our guests, and was voted the second best attraction of the day.

Each hand-made brick was individually decorated with pieces of coloured dishes, mirrors, and assorted surprises. The longer we looked, the more odd the finds – a doll, a clock face. The current owner came out, and graciously allowed us to inspect all sides of his house. A woman walking by told us that, as a child, she would bring broken dishes to the owner. She would receive a nickel, and another unique brick would be created.

That’s the end of the tour, folks, and our top three sights. The selection was more whimsical than scientific, perhaps, but we stand by the results.

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

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Binding the Generations Sponsored by

An interview with Graham Scott Enns History Our firm had its beginnings in 1958 when Denning Barker & Co was formed in Aylmer. In 1972 a second location was started in St. Thomas on Centre Street as Denning Barker & Stanley. In 1985 John Scott and Alan Enns joined the firm, and then in 1990 the firm moved both offices to their current locations in St. Thomas and Aylmer and Bill Graham joined the firm. In 1995, the firm was renamed Graham Scott Enns.

The transition to the next generation has been in the works for years, by building our group of professionals, and working together as a team. By retaining and promoting the members of that team, the St. Thomas office over the past 15 years has added Rob Foster, Jim Frederick, Mike MacKinnon, and most recently Paul Schneider, as general practice partners, in addition to building a strong group of managers and senior staff.

With that team in place and many client transitions already underway, the St. Thomas office experienced a smooth transition on the retirement of Bill Graham in 2015. We are confident that with John Scott’s pending retirement at the end of 2017, GSE is well on its way of ensuring that John’s clients will be well looked after by the other St. Thomas office partners.

What kinds of things were most important as you consider how GSE has grown and where you are planning to go from here?

The firm has grown tremendously over the years, but what hasn’t changed is the real comfortable relationship we maintain with our clients. Taking the time and effort to provide services at a personal level allows us to tailor and adapt a service strategy that accomplishes what our clients want and require.

Our knowledge of the industries we work in, and our experience in asking our clients the right questions, provides them with access to professionals who understand the specific challenges that they may encounter.

What do you look for in new people that you bring on board?

Our firm prides ourselves on developing a well-balanced team of professionals. We look for individuals that will fit into our culture. They should be able to work in a team environment with strong communication skills. They must have a passion for our profession and demonstrate that they care about our clients’ businesses.

Tell us a little bit about being mentored and mentoring as it relates to your business?

In our firm every new staff member is assigned a mentoring buddy. The mentor assists the new employee in getting comfortable in their new position.

There are regular meetings to assign new work and subsequent review of the work, plus make sure they continue to grow their skills and experiences.

What kind of advice With the retirement of Bill Graham in would you offer young 2015, and the pending retirement of John people who may be Scott (above) at the end of 2017, GSE has considering a career in worked hard to put in place the people accounting? and resources to ensure a smooth transiTo start a career in tion for the firm. accounting they will want to start by researching the educational requirements. They will need a bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field. A program that provides a co-op program is very beneficial because it allows students to obtain valuable work experience.

A career in accounting has the potential to be incredibly rewarding, it gives a person the opportunity to work in any industry and could open doors that they didn’t even know existed. As an Accountant, the possibilities are endless. Accountants can be auditors, controllers, entrepreneurs, financial analysts, and investment bankers, just to name a few.

What’s the best advice you have received?

To approach every client’s business as your own so you can assist your clients in analyzing their financial results and planning for the future.

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