Kingston business today 1202

Your source for business and chamber news in the Greater Kingston Area December 2, 2013

Vol. 2 NO. 10

Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce celebrates the best of local business

Left to right: Jason Legere & Matt Day(Days on Front), John Ryce (Investors Group), Damien Gilbert (Caduceon Environmental Laboratories), Brad French ( Alliance Wireless), Anthony Agostino (VIVA Productions), Maarten Groot (AudioConexus), Paul VandenEngel & Irene Hoekstra (Western Landscape Services), Will Baird ( Fort Henry) & Grant Goodwin (All Roads Inc.) See page 5 for complete list of winners.

Photo/Robert Taylor

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Remaking the ‘Sweet Science’ of Boxing

By Mary Anne Beaudette Longtime fighting coach and Kingston newcomer Len Meyer is on a martial-arts mission. The former South African karate champion and trainer of champions across the martial arts has made Kingston his testing ground for two major goals: To resurrect boxing as a marquee sport, and to groom a world boxing champion using his unique fusionstyle training approach.

Meyer conceived his New Fighting Concept in his native South Africa after he began questioning the traditions, patterns and rules of established fighting styles. “I felt they were inadequate, incomplete, and too restrictive. They didn’t allow freedom of expression. I wanted a better way.”

Backed by 36 years of fighting and training experience, and inspired by classic boxing great Muhammad Ali, he experimented with a more freestyle approach that tapped into an individual’s own strengths and weaknesses. He quickly gained a reputation for creating champions, male and female. (He is particularly proud of his role in South Africa’s decision to end its ban on female fighters, through the success of his protégé, Sandra Almeida, currently ranked 11th in the world.)

Praised for its grace, simplicity and effectiveness, Meyer’s New Fighting Concept encompasses the techniques and philosophies of all of the martial arts, including Thai boxing, kickboxing, akido and judo, with elements of each incorporated into an integrated, personalized approach – described by veteran fighter Almeida as “something breathtakingly close to perfection.”

Reflecting its Eastern influences, the style is organic, and changes the whole nature of the sport, says Meyer. He sees it as a more skilled, sophisticated alternative to the wildly popular Mixed Martial Arts style of fighting, which he derides for its “brawling” style. “It’s poor in technique. It has no rhythm or grace.”

“Our way is like water, it’s slow, smooth, if flows – it’s almost balletic,” he says. “We disconnect the ‘line of attack’ relationship, there’s very little bobbing and weaving; we do a lot of deflecting, bowing, moving into the jab, putting up a shoulder to block a shot. Our philosophy is not to beat the other guy up; it’s to demonstrate technique. You don’t have to be strong or unique. If you understand it, you can

adapt to it. It’s like magic.”

Proponents of approach can be found at his New Fighting Concept gym, which opened at 12 Cataraqui Street earlier this year. The facility, next door to the Kingston Woolen Mill, is unabashedly “old school,” says Meyer. “It’s hidden away, it’s got rings, punching bags, skipping ropes, weights... it’s for the person who not only wants to learn how to fight, but who wants to discover something about themselves.” The business offers classes, camps and private lessons – even ‘couples’ workouts’.

He’s particularly excited about two new young boxers, Queen’s students both. One of them, Ese Okonofua, shows such promise after only a month’s training that he will be in the ring when Meyer officially launches his New Fighting Concept in Canada on Dec. 14, at Toronto’s Bloor Street Gym.

That event is an exciting milestone for Meyer, who was under no illusions about the challenges he faced when he moved to Canada last year. “Boxing is not as big in Canada as in South Africa, where there’s a fight culture and you can making a living from it. Kingston is dynamic. People have a lot of sporting choices, so it can be difficult to find those who truly want what I can offer.”

One of the ways he is overcoming that competitive challenge is through the Kingston Economic Development Corporation (KEDCO). Mark Hanley, Manager of KEDCO’s Entrepreneur Centre, was one of the first people Meyer met when he arrived in Kingston a year ago. “He gave me confidence, and told me that what I was doing could succeed with good marketing,” he says.

Meyer, has approached his marketing through demonstrations at events such as the Kingston Recreation and Leisure Showcase, and Queen’s fall sidewalk sale. He also included some basics, such as creating a fast-growing Facebook presence, and creating business cards with an eye-catching redand-black design and an elegant, stylized bamboo logo.

Currently Meyer offers training on weekdays – Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 7-8 pm, and Saturdays from 10 am-noon.

Those hours will increase as his New Fighting Concept catches on – and he passionately believes it will.

“Boxing is a pure science, it’s a sweet, sweet science,” he says. “It’s suffering hugely right now because of mixed martial arts – but not for long. People are becoming educated, they’re beginning to realize that fighting is more than brawling, and once that knowledge is gained, boxing will come right back.”

For information on Meyer and his New Fighting Concept, visit: www.facebook.com/TNFCKingston For more information on the small business programs and services offered through KEDCO, please email at: entrepreneurship@kingstoncanada.com

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Newly-designed waterfront hotel aims to attract both tourists and business clients Reporter

With $10 million spent on renovations, the Delta Kingston Waterfront Hotel is one of the city’s first four-star, upscale, full-service hotels.

Boasting 126 guest rooms and suits, a redesigned lobby and the creation of an open space business area featuring a series of interactive work hubs and lounge areas, the new renovations are jaw-dropping.

“The property’s prime waterfront and downtown location is what sets it apart from the competition, and the renovation has repositioned the hotel as a product leader in the local marketplace. We are thrilled to offer our guests one of the most modern, innovative and thoughtfully designed hotels in the city,” says Ken Greene, President and CEO, Delta Hotels and Resorts.

The hotel started out as a Ramada Inn when it was first built in the 1980s and later became a Radisson, before sporting its new Delta Hotels and Resort logo.

“The renovation is an important evolution for the hotel,” said Greg Bell, General Manager, Delta Kingston Waterfront Hotel. “Delta is well known for its high level of service excellence and we are excited to deliver the upscale Delta experience to our guests.”

All 126 guest rooms provide a waterfront view, and the new guest room

design, named ModeRoom, is inspired by the Canadian landscape and features fresh and modern colour palettes.

The rooms are also tech saavy, allowing guests the opportunity to link their laptops and/or mobile devices to the rooms’ flat screen, high definition TVs. The guest rooms are being offered in three categories -- Mode, ModeDeluxe, and ModeSuites..

But the hotel has more to offer than its newly renovated ModeRoom designs. The renovations also cater to attract businesses, with a portion of the lobby being transformed into fully connected work hubs and lounge areas that can be used for small banquets, breakout rooms and reception. The space also includes two boardrooms built on the water. As well, the top floor meeting space was expanded to accommodate larger groups and provides panoramic views of Kingston’s downtown waterfront.

The hotel kept its restaurant, AquaTerra by Clark, however it was redsigned to include multi-functioning spaces in addition to the main dining area. The award-winning food and beverage team will continue to be led by Clark Day and Chef de Cuisine Brent McAllister.

Bell says the renovated hotel will make an impact on Kingston’s economy.

“It will draw new tourism business to the city – particularly clients who

are loyal to the Delta brand who may not otherwise have stayed in Kingston,” he explains, noting that because of Kingston’s prime location, being situated between Toronto and Ottawa, corporate clients will be more likely to stop at the Delta Kingston. Moreover, he notes that the Delta upscale brand has the potential of drawing clients who are willing to spend more on accommodation, dining and shopping in Kingston.

Bell says hotel rates range from $150 per night during the low season to $250 during high season. He says he’s seen an increase in bookings since the Delta brand took over, and that 2014 is expected to be the best year that the property has ever seen.

The new Delta hotel on Kingston’s waterfront features renovations to everything from bedrooms to AquaTerra by Clark restaurant.

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By Hiba Kesebi

Kingston Business Today - Monday, December 2, 2013 3

The Joy of Advertising

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Sustainable Kingston Welcomes the Business Section to our Community!

Kingston is a city that is a vital, dynamic and sustainable economic centre where research, innovation, investment, and business enterprises thrive together and where a variety of people want to visit, live, work, and do business.

Developing an economy depends on building many relationships and partnerships with businesses, industry leaders, educational institutions, not-for-profit organizations, and the community at large. Our economy relies upon, and is built upon, a strong cultural, social, and environmental foundation.

The Economic Pillar is focused on the attraction of new businesses and people to Kingston. This is critical to the city’s growth and sustainability and assists us in building a strong and vibrant local community. The retention of talented people in the public, private, and non-profit sectors in Kingston are fundamental to achieving this. Existing businesses and the jobs they create, are critical components of a strong, sustainable economy.

The intention of Sustainable Kingston is to educate, motivate and support partner organizations and citizens in establishing, implementing and achieving their sustainability goals in support of community sustainability in Kingston.

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With traditional advertising, your aim is to craft a noticeable message that will be acted upon and much of your budget will cover ad frequency. Social media, meanwhile, requires engagement. They have to want to like your Facebook page or follow you on Twitter; frequent updates will maintain the connection.

If you don’t have the time or inclination to build these relationships, you need to hire someone to do it for you.

Other ways of getting publicity for your venture include: Public relations: Well-crafted press releases can go a long way toward getting your business mentioned in newspapers. For this, you will need an engaging story with a catchy headline that people will take the time to read. A press re- Genny Landis lease can include details about term and designed to get immediate your background results. You could consider “openand what led to ing week specials” to entice consumer traffic. The objectives are to the new venture.

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@dvisor survey shows that conventional media still has a strong inYou’ve done it! You’re ready for fluence in our daily lives, although business with doors opening Mon- social networking is stronger with day morning. Everything is ready younger Canadians.

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Kingston’s Best for over 60 Years!

Business Achievement Award winners announced

Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce celebrates the best of local business

Sustainability Award (sponsored by The Kingston Banquet and Conference Centre): Western Landscape Services.

Tourism/Hospitality Award (sponsored by Tourism Kingston, a division of KEDCO): New Sunset Ceremonies – Fort Henry.

New Business of the Year (sponsored by TD Canada Trust): Days on Front.

Small Business of the Year (sponsored by OLG): AudioConexus.

Medium Business of the Year (sponsored by Bell): All Roads Inc. Large Business of the Year (sponsored by TVCOGECO): Caduceon Environmental Laboratories.

Young Entrepreneur of the Year (sponsored by Collins Barrow Chartered Accountants): Anthony Agostino, VIVA Productions.

Business Person of the Year (sponsored by Union Gas Ltd): Brad French, Alliance Wireless.

Chair’s Award (sponsored by Empire Life): John Ryce, Division Director, Investors Group.

Local businesses are nominated by their customers, clients, staff and peers for the annual Business Achievement Awards. A group of their peers from the Kingston business community evaluates each nomination through such criteria as customer and employee relations, business growth, business standards and ethics, and community involvement.

Award winner details: Sustainability Award: Western Landscape Services. Established in 1973 and employing approximately 20 staff, Western Landscaping Services’ mission is to create an esthetically pleasing and functional out-

door environment. They are a registered member of Sustainable Kingston Community Partners, and take pride in their partnership with Mother Nature. The Sustainable Kingston Plan offers a valuable framework that Western contributes to. The four pillars of sustainability form their Sustainability program, including community involvement and sustainable operations.

New Business Award: Days on Front.

Matt Day noticed there was a lack of fine dining with a modern atmosphere and forward thinking food in the west end of Kingston. Therefore, along with chef Jason Legere, they established Days on Front in May 2012. Days on Front offers contemporary Canadian cuisine, reflective of a simplified, yet refined approach to taste. They are proud to offer the finest ingredients, and strive to ensure they provide a unique and unparalleled level of food, service and atmosphere.

Tourism Award: New Sunset Ceremonies – Fort Henry. Fort Henry National Historic Site of Canada opened as a National Historic Site and Public Museum on August 1st, 1938. It is Eastern Ontario’s largest performance-based heritage tourism attraction and has achieved awardwinning recognition internationally. Fort Henry delivers over 30 million dollars of annual economic impact to the Kingston area community and supports Kingston with outreach programs, event sponsorships and donations.

Small Business of the Year: AudioConexus. Founded in 2006, AudioConexus Inc. provides GPS triggered and handheld audio and multimedia interpretation in the global tourism industry. Providing multilingual entertainment, AudioConexus has produced audio tours in more than 20 languages for premier brands around the world. They work with companies to create tour products people love. AudioConexus provides thousands of audio tours daily, developed by their writers, curators and educators, about destinations, works of art, objects and exhibits.

Medium Business of the Year: All Roads Inc. All Roads Inc. is an authoritative branding agency—the first of its kind.

They capture the true value of leaders and develop online experiences that mirror the helpfulness and personality that have made other clients successful. Using their own knowledge to teach online audiences the information they want to know, their clients dominate their online space. All Roads’ head office in downtown Kingston has grown to include 18 employees, serving

Left to right: Jason Legere & Matt Day(Days on Front), John Ryce (Investors Group), Damien Gilbert (Caduceon Environmental Laboratories), Brad French ( Alliance Wireless), Anthony Agostino (VIVA Productions), Maarten Groot (AudioConexus), Paul VandenEngel & Irene Hoekstra (Western Landscape Services), Will Baird ( Fort Henry) & Grant Goodwin (All Roads Inc.) Photo/Robert Taylor over 100 clients across North America.

Large Business of the Year: Caduceon Environmental Laboratories. Caduceon Environmental Laboratories was established in 1989 to provide quality analytical work and to do so in a timely fashion.

What began as a one man show to aid businesses gather data has grown to have over 75 employees and four locations throughout Ontario, with the corporate office here in Kingston. Caduceon services a variety of clients for analysis regarding parameters such as drinking water, waste water, oil spills, and landfill monitoring.

Young Entrepreneur of the Year: Anthony Agostino of VIVA Productions.

Anthony Agostino left a broadcasting career to operate Viva Productions full-time in 2010. This determined and passionate self-made entrepreneur has helped turn Viva Productions into an innovative, leading edge firm with an increase in revenue of over 210% in only three years. His business acumen has been vital in building his company from the ground up, and also helping to develop and nourish the industry of video marketing in the Kingston area.

Business Person of the Year: Brad French, Alliance Wireless. Brad French is the owner and President of Alliance Wireless Communications and has helped increase revenues significantly.

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Recently, Alliance acquired 401 Security, expanded their coverage area to all of Eastern Ontario and has increased the number of jobs in Kingston. Brad is a past president and board member of the Youth Diversions Program. Currently, he is a board member for the Community Foundation of Kingston and Area where he created the Youth Diversion Sustainability Fund by donating $10,000.

Chair’s Award. This award recognizes a special individual or group; those who have demonstrated tremendous work and benefit to the business community, making Kingston the best place in which to live, work and do business.

Chamber Chair Donna Woodbury chose John Ryce of Investors Group. This year’s winner of the Chair’s award is a business person who has succeeded in building their business within a very competitive industry, and one which relies on trust and integrity. And in addition to managing their own business, they have a key role within their organization in identifying, recruiting and developing new talent, sharing their experience and wisdom along the way. They are the true embodiment of leveraging their investment in Chamber membership for the benefit of their business, and have at the same time generously lent their thoughtfulness, talent and passion for the Kingston business community to the Chamber in return.

are looking for work? have unsuccessful job interviews? consider a new career? want to start your own business?

2013 Event Sponsors Media Sponsor: Bell Media Young Entrepreneur Award: Collins Barrow Chartered Accountants New Business of The Year: TD Canada Trust Business Person: Union Gas Ltd Small Business (1-10): OLG Casino Medium Business (10-40): Bell Tourism/Hospitality Award: Tourism Kingston division of KEDCO Large Business of the Year: 40+ TVCOGECO Sustainability Award of the Year: Kingston Banquet and Conference Centre Chair’s Award: Empire Life Décor Sponsor: Wine Kitz Décor Sponsor: Metal Craft Marine Entertainment Sponsor: CIBC Video Sponsor: St. Lawrence College Reception Sponsor: Len Corcoran Excavating Floral Sponsor: Pam’s Flower Garden Program Sponsor: RBC Royal Bank Award Manufacturer: Fort Glass Incorporated Photo Sponsor: Taylor Studios Nominee Reception: BDC Sign Sponsor: Gorway Signs Nominee Supplement: Kingston This Week Invitation & Tickets: Digigraphics Tuxedo Rental: Bridal Creations

Don’t forget to ask about the

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The Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce held their eighteenth annual Chair’s Gala, featuring the Business Achievement Awards Thursday November 7th, 2013 at the Kingston Banquet and Conference Centre. Over 270 guests attended the gala, which celebrates the success of local businesses. The winners were:

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www.acfomi.org Kingston Business Today - Monday, December 2, 2013 5

Empire Life named Best Life Insurance Company in Canada

By Hollie Pratt-Campbell hpratt-campbell@perfprint.ca

Heritage News – One of Kingston’s largest private sector employers has been recognized internationally for overall excellence.

The Empire Life Insurance Company, which celebrated its 90 th anniversary this year, was named “Best Life Insurance Company in Canada” by World Finance magazine as part of its annual insurance awards competition.

The award recognizes a progressive company that demonstrates leadership in the industry in areas such as operational efficiency and effectiveness, commitment to improving relationships with clients and financial results. Specifically, World Finance noted Empire Life’s record earnings in 2012, the company’s commitment to community investment as an Imagine® Caring Company and the activities highlighted in its 2012 Corporate Accountability Report as key reasons why it was selected for the award.

“I think it’s a testament to all the hard work of everyone in Kingston and across the country of being a very customer-focused and advisor-focused organization,” says senior vice president Sean Kilburn. “It all starts with the customer and the hard work that we’ve done to make sure we

have very strong relationships that to make sure everyone is aware of are responsive to their needs.” the good work [the United Way] The other key component to the does.” award is Empire Life’s long hisKilburn notes that being named tory of philanthropy and commit- the Best Life Insurance Company ment to giving back to the Kings- in Canada is a great honour for all ton community. In particular, the Empire employees – himself incompany runs a successful United cluded.

Way campaign annually, which this “I think I won MVP for rugby in year raised a total of $292,425.

Grade 12, but that’s pretty much “I think it starts with our em- it,” he jokes. “This is the first time ployees,” Kilburn says. “They I’ve been associated with a comhave a natural approach to want pany that has won this particular to help, if you look at the strong award and it’s an amazing feelcommunity involvement, the char- ing.” itable work and the company’s And the title is sure to boost the commitment to charitable giving bottom line as well. as well. I’ve worked for a lot of “What this award does for us, different organizations in my ca- is for those consumers and advireer, and with this organization it sors that don’t have an intimate all starts with the people. Just as relationship with Empire already, they want to help our advisors and it gives an independent validaour customers, they also want to tion that this is a strong company help the community that they live that they might want to learn more in.” about,” Kilburn explains.

He notes that the executive Indeed, he adds that since startteam also makes a conscious effort ing with the Empire Life eight to lead by example when it comes months ago, he has been amazed to supporting the United Way. In- by the quality of the team at the deed, Empire Life CEO Les Herr Kingston head office. served as chair of the KFL&A “I look at our future and I think United Way’s annual campaign for it’s amazing,” he says. “There are both 2010 and 2011. more opportunities to grow and “It starts at the top,” says Kil- for people to grow with us.” burn. “As an executive team, our commitment and our contributions to the United Way are very impor- Empire Life senior vice president tant to us. We run our organization Sean Kilburn

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on behalf of all our accredited businesses in the region

• A&A Asphalt Inc. Mark Taylor • AABEN Windows and Doors Ltd. - Mr. Michael Braby • ABC Roofing - Erma Sears • Action Flooring Kingston Larry Paquette • Alex McCoy Plumbing and Heating Ltd. Christopher McCoy • AMJ Campbell Van Lines Kingston - Michel Frappier • Anderson Enhancements Tom Anderson • ASAP Cheques, Forms & Supplies - Les Cseh • Atkinson Home Hardware Building Centres Darlene Atkinson • Automaxx Automotive Don Fletcher • Bath Solutions of Kingston Jeff Whitley • Bayridge Animal Hospital Dr. Jay Black • Blairs Collision Service Bill Blair • Brunet Heating & Air Conditioning - Roland Brunet • Brunet Plumbing Supply David Brunet • Carpet Wizard (Kingston) Inc. - Brian McLean • Cataraqui Cabinets Sean Flynn • Caverson Group Pest Control - Tracy Caverson • ClickHelp - Thomas Chui • Condie Automotive Brian Condie • Cosme Auto Services Ltd. Ana Rodrigues • Countrytime Furniture David Culmer • Crains’ Construction Ltd. Tracy Botham

• Crossroads Training Academy Ltd. - Robert Barclay • Crown Collision Service Ltd. Sean Davidson • 21 Degrees One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning - Kevin Dentremont • DM Roofing - Darren Martin • DogWatch of Southeastern Ontario Inc. - Brad Wolfe • Doyles Window Sales Ltd. Rick Larose • Energy Kingston Exteriors Inc. - Mike Goulding • Evertemp Inc. - Larry Hill • Faucet Fix - Tim Kehoe • Ferguson’s Home Improvements Terry Ferguson • FixMyPod - Eduardo Vas • Fort Glass Incorporated Robert Welsh • Frank’s Worldwide Moving Rob Stacey • Frontenac Roofing Co. Stephen Hogeboom • Gananoque Boat Lines Christopher McCarney • Good Home Renovations Alan Good • GP Appliance Service Greg Hollywood • Haven Home ClimateCare Marci McMullen • Heartwood Construction and Renovations - Mark Brooks • Interprovincial Insulation Inc. - Scott VanCamp • JA Contracting - Joe Almeida • Jack’s Towing Service Ltd. Robert Pantrey • Jeff Byron Pumps & Water Treatment Inc. - Jeff Byron

• John’s Appliance Service John Fortier • Kerr Roofing Inc. Adam Kerr • Kingston Carpetworld Cora Rodrigues • Kingston Hyundai - Scott Sly • Kingston Masonry Services Paul Moniz • Kingston Pro Roofing Matthew Harris • Lennox Fencing Dwight Williams • Limestone Hearing Care Centre - Sherry Whitehorne • Loyalist Collection Services Inc. - David Walker • Mattress Mart - John Spence • Manning Construction Albert Manning • My Car - Brad Boehme • Nature’s Way Landscaping Terry Childs • Neil’s Flowers Ltd. Neil Oosterman • ObitNotifier.com Alex Lawson • Plumbing Plus Kingston Rick Guernsey • Prestige Roofing Kingston Neil Faulkner • Professional Investments Inc. - Ossie Fisher • PVB Roofing Consultants Inc. - Peter Van Bruinessen • Reins Heating and Air Conditioning Ltd. Ron Roorda • Retire-At-Home Services Chris Viquiera • Richard’s Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Richard Yeatman • Rigney Building Supplies Joe Saccon

• R.J. Kennedy Electric Ltd. Robert Kennedy • Rogan Kitchen Mfg Roger Hennessy • Ron’s Auto Body Robert McTavish • Rooftec - Montgomery White • Rust Check Kingston • Safestep Building Treatments Inc. - Nick Hemm • Service Experts Heating and Air Conditioning David Sleeth • Service Master of Kingston Darryl Herron • Sharpe Lawn and Garden Service Ltd. - Ted Sharpe • Shingler on the Roof Dave Fuller • Shoebox Services Lynne Lepage • Subaru of Kingston Scott Sly • Surgenor Truck Centre Michael Gallant • Swyrich Corporation Dave Richardson • Tall Pines Interiors William Stevenson • The Boat Warehouse Dave Mayhew • The Electrical Doctor Ken Edwards • The Larochelle Group Corporation - Jean Larochelle • The Window Centre of Kingston - Ritchie Oomen • Tony Matias Holdings Ltd. Tony Matias • Total Fence - Paul Bonhomme • Webwoods - Jeffrey Jones • Wilcon Garage Doors Ken Wilkinson • Wine Kitz Kingston Rosemary Schwager

Kingston Business Today - Monday, December 2, 2013 7

James Brett Coiffure and Esthetics: Growing business, environmental stewardship and client satisfaction

By Hiba Kesebi Reporter

per cent plant based. I knew our partnership would be doing better for the environment.”

In 2004, simultaneously with the new AVEDA partnership, James Brett Coiffure and Esthetics expanded to its current location on 189

When James Brett enters his salon, James Brett Coiffure and Esthetics, he is overwhelmed with a feeling of pride. Pride for his staff, pride for his clients and pride for his business and the product it carries .

That’s because his salon has witnessed tremendous transformation and success from when it started in 1999.

Through mentorship and education, Brett was able to turn his small salon, which consisted of three chairs and two sinks, into an upscale, two-location AVEDA concept salon that commits itself to the highest standard of hair, spa and aesthetics services.

However, success didn’t come easily. In fact, opening up a new salon was a struggle for the first three years, admits Brett.

“It was my first time opening up my own business, and I quickly realized that although I was expected to know everything, I didn’t know everything when it comes to having your own business.”

With no business background, Brett quickly learned that he needed a mentor to guide and teach him how to focus within the industry.

It was that education, mentorship and a sense of environmental stewardship that lead to the success of his salon.

“It came upon me that one day when I was talking about being good to my body and good to the environment that I was washing these petro- James Brett Coiffure and Esthetics owner James Brett. chemcial colors down the drain. Hair salons are the worst abusers of the water in the world. I thought, we had think of a way to Princess Street.

“When we first opened up, it was just unbeget away from abusing the water.”

That’s why in 2004 Brett decided to partner lievable. We thought the place was going to be way too big for us. Than after a month, we were with AVEDA. “With AVEDA their permanent colours are like this place is way too small,” smiles Brett.

In response to his growing clientele, Brett 97 per cent plant based, demi-colours are 99

opened up his second location salon on Gardiners Road. However, even with a new location business continued to expand, and so in 2008, Brett expanded his location on Princess Street by opening a new storefront on 187 Princess.

Today Brett has 56 employees.

“It’s phenomenal,” he says.

“I like being my own boss. It’s almost like a high, that you can watch other people grow and develop. That becomes such an important thing for me. It’s very rewarding.”

But it’s not just the product and staff that Brett takes pride in. Rather, he also takes pride in his clients and the experience he offers them.

“We don’t want our clients to visit the salon for services, we want them to visit for the experience,” says Brett.

This experience includes complimentary hand, shoulder, neck and scalp messages as well as complimentary hot towel mini facials for men and makeup touchups for women at the end of their appointment.

“We want the client to get as much as they can from us.” explains Brett, noting that client satisfaction is a priority and keeping that priority has been key to the salon’s success.

“The way I look at it is a client comes to me with a cup of water. Every day that water is full but people take out water, their partners take out water, their children take out water, their job takes out water, life takes out water. So when they are sitting in my chair for three hours, I have Photo/Tim Forbes three hours to put water back into their cup so that they are able to face the world again,” says Brett.

“Hairdressing is your one opportunity to change someone’s life – change them inside and out. You’ve got one chance to make somebody feel better about themselves. It’s the biggest reward you can have,” he adds.

Words from the Chair

By Donna Woodbury

When I became the Chair, I was told that the year would go by fast, and so it did. I now find myself reflecting on the past year.

I enjoyed my year as Chair, it was both challenging and rewarding.

I was very fortunate to work with a Board and Executive that truly cares about the Chamber and the business community in Kingston. These individuals volunteer many hours of their time, not only on the Board, but also on several committees and at numerous events.

As local business professionals themselves, they understand the meaning of value and worked hard to provide this to our membership this year.

The Board and staff worked hard on your behalf to provide value through our focus on advocacy, local business issues, networking events and educational workshops. While we are pleased with our progress this year, we know there is still much more work to be done. Your feedback is encouraged and always welcome. This is your Chamber and we want to make sure that you are getting the value that you deserve.

I want to thank the Chamber staff, Matt Hutcheon, CEO, Bill Stewart, Policy and Advocacy, Jennifer McLaren, Business Development, Dana Betournay, Programming and Events, Debbie Graves, Finance and Administration, and Josh Hartson, Social Media guru, for their hard work and dedication.

And a big thanks to the 2013 Board of Directors along with the Executive for their commitment to the Chamber.

Volunteering on the Chamber Board is a time commitment, but it has its rewards. Over the past seven years, I have met many interesting individuals and I have built strong relationships and friendships. I know that I benefited both personally and professionally. Kingston truly is a great place to work and do business. It has been a privilege to serve as your Board Chair.

I hope you all had a great year and I wish you much success in 2014.

Donna Woodbury Chair, Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce

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‘Tis the season to shop, shop, shop!

Reporter

With the holiday season fast approaching, Downtown Kingston! Business Improvement Area has a planned a number of events to drive traffic downtown, where they hope people will be encouraged to shop locally.

These events include Santa in the Square, where you can visit Santa at Springer Market Square every Saturday from Nov. 30 – Dec. 21 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. and take a free picture with the jolly old elf using your camera; window wonderland, where downtown really comes alive after dark with cheery and bright holiday window displays; and the Santa Bucks promotional offer, explains Michele Langlois, General Manager and Director of Marketing, Downtown Kingston!

Langlois adds that people will find that downtown shops offer so much more than large, chain stores.

“Shopping local is a big deal, obviously its supporting members of our community and their employees. Local shop owners give back to the community more, economically it makes more sense. As well, a lot of product that’s available downtown is not available in other places and the quality of service tends to be very high,” she says.

Kingston Business Today spoke with three local shop owners to find out what they are doing to promote holiday shopping in their stores. Here’s what they had to say: Minotaur

Minotaur is more than just your average gaming store. Its products offer you an experience and get you engaged and active, explains Michael White, Minotaur co-owner.

White says the 30 days before Christmas are always very busy for them, and they compete with bigger stores in three ways.

“The most important way that we, or any other smaller downtown business, would compete with big box stores or the internet, is that we focus on specialty merchandise, knowledgeable staff and high levels of service and activity,” he explains.

In addition to selling board games and craft items, Minotaur also hosts game nights Thursdays and Sundays from 5-9 p.m., which are open to the public.

“There’s a great turnout. Around 30 people show up to game nights,” explains White. “It just shows a great sense of community,” he says of the tournaments.

When asked about the must-have game for the season, Michael chuckled.

“That type of question is pretty much people’s experience with the mass market, because mass market wants you to think that there is one big new hot item that you must have. I don’t ever think that way,” he says.

“I much rather have a conversation with the client about who the person they are buying for is and what they like and what they don’t like and try to find the right thing, rather than trying to shoehorn everyone into one category,” adds White.

You can visit Minotaur at 165 Princess Street.

Trailhead

Trailhead sells outdoor gear and clothing. It carries brands like The North Face, Canada Goose and Arcteryx.

Its owner, James Malcolm, says there are often two things that set downtown shops apart from chain stores: independently owned shops tend to always have a greater variety and better customer ser-

vice.

“You’ll likely have a more vested interested as an entrepreneur running a local shop. Customers are generally a priority,” Malcolm explains, noting that Trailhead prides itself in having excellent service.

You can visit Trailhead at 262 Princess Street.

Chris James

Chris James boasts a 700 sq.ft. space, which carries multi-branded clothing and accessories for men and women.

“It offers Canadian designed and manufactured pieces that are timeless, classic and good value,” says owner Christine Ray-Bratt.

Ray-Bratt says they are having several promotional sales during the holiday season. The store will be having a buy one get the second half price promotion throughout the month of December. As well, existing customers can use their reward points in December in addition to the promotional sale.

But Ray-Bratt says while they offer competitive prices, Chris James is also about offering great customer service.

“Our philosophy is one customer at a time. When a customer comes in to select something, yes it’s about finding them a deal, but more than just finding them a deal or sweater at $48.88 it’s about finding the right sweater at $48.88 and making sure the size is correct, the quality is there and it is something that isn’t going to be coming back,” she explains.

She says shopping at local independent stores is important because it ensures local dollars are kept locally versus going to corporate offices.

You can visit Chris James at 253 Ontario Street.

Recent Changes to Social Media

By Jennifer Baker

As a business owner it is important to be aware of changes made to social media platforms, as they can impact your business’ marketing strategy. Popular social media platforms, like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn have made significant changes and improvements in 2013. This article will outline some of these changes, and how they affect business owners.

In May, LinkedIn overhauled the look and feel of the professional social networking site. Starting with the main page, LinkedIn updated their navigation bar to include only popular buttons: Profile, Network, Jobs, and Interests. This change reduced the amount of clutter LinkedIn users view while on the main page and made navigation more efficient. In addition, LinkedIn introduced the option for users to include PDFs, images, videos, and links on their professional profile, under their current experience section.

Previously reserved for text only, users can now include portfolios of work projects – a great visual enhancement to any profile.

Recently, Facebook updated its advertising options for businesses, making choices easier to understand and implement. One of the changes involves the size and quantity of images. Ad images are now bigger for the purpose of allowing businesses to showcase their products. In addition, advertisers can now upload as many as six unique images to be used for one specific ad campaign. Facebook will test the various images to see which works best, and then continue using primarily that image throughout the course of the campaign. The other change is with to respect to objectives. Facebook has made objectives more clear, stating an objective as “Clicks to website,” “Page Likes” or “App Installs.” These changes will make advertising on Facebook easier and more efficient.

Previously reserved for the budgets of multinational corporations, Twitter introduced advertising opportunities geared towards small and medium sized businesses. This product improvement was likely the result of future growth strategies coupled with their recent initial public offering (IPO) on Nov. 7. Twitter ads can be used to promote tweets or accounts, and can be targeted at specific users, keywords, interests or geography.

Business owners should consider allocating budget towards advertising on Twitter – especially if their target audience is active on this medium.

Social media platforms are continually improving their products and services to ensure their relevancy to the marketplace. Embrace these above changes and see how they can impact your business in 2014.

Jennifer offers social media training seminars, one-on-one personalized training, and corporate group training. Jennifer Baker Consulting is located in Kingston and is a proud member of the Greater Kingston Chamber of Commerce.

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By Hiba Kesebi

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Creating opportunities for skilled KGH awarded 2013 KIP Employer of the Year Award immigrants through mentorship The Kingston Immigration Partnership (KIP) is very proud to present our 2013 Employer Award to Kingston General Hospital, for its efforts to train KGH staff on cultural awareness in the workplace. KGH has been a strong partner of KIP since 2009, and as a major local employer, KGH has the opportunity to be a local leader for the successful integration of immigrants in our workplaces.

If you are not familiar with the work of KIP, we coordinate local efforts to make newcomers to Canada an integral part of a prosperous and vibrant Kingston. The operative word in our name is Partnership – we work closely with a broad cross-section of the Kingston community. Local businesses that have worked with us on our Council and Employer Advisory Group include: Empire Life, Cancoil, Stantive, Zycom, INVISTA, J.E. Agnew Food Services, MetalCraft Marine, ESG Solutions, and others. KEDCO and the Kingston Chamber of Commerce are our two key conduits to the business community.

If you are a local business person wondering how you can benefit from the influx of incredible skills and talent that immigrants are bringing to Canada, KIP and its partners are available to answer your questions. There is a growing array of services and programs in the Kingston community aimed at support-

ing, informing, and networking employers interested in tapping into Kingston’s “Global Talent”.

Are you interested in getting to know an engineer from Egypt or a pharmacist from the Philippines? You could attend a networking event, such as the Chamber’s annual Global Talent mixer or a speed networking session hosted by KEYS Job Centre. Are you a professional looking for coaching and mentoring experience? Call the KEYS Mentoring Partnership and become a volunteer mentor for a newcomer in your professional field. Are you looking for options to bring immigrant talent into your workplace? Try the LDSB CanPlace program and take an English language learner on for a work placement. Are you looking for ideas on improving your ability to recruit and retain highly-skilled newcomers? Try the local Hire Smart program website: www.hiresmartcanada.ca, or turn to a national resource site such as www.hireimmigrants.ca.

So consider your options and get in touch with our Partnership. I look forward to seeing your company’s name on the list of nominees for the 2014 KIP Employer Award.

Scott Clerk Coordinator, Kingston Immigration Partnership @immigrate_Ktown

By Hiba Kesebi Reporter

The Professional Mentoring Partnership at KEYS job center is helping immigrants understand the Canadian work system better, make the right connections, and meet prospective employers. Just ask Amr ElSharkawy an IT Executive who immigrated to Kingston from Egypt.

“When we landed in Kingston, one of the first things we did was approach KEYS for an opportunity to help me and help my wife find employment and the mentorship program was introduced to us,” he explains.

KEYS’ Professional Mentoring Partnership connects skilled immigrants with a local professional in the same field and provides one-onone mentoring, over a four month period.

In order to qualify for the program, mentees have to be job ready and trained in their field.

ElSharkaway was paired with mentor Dave Hallet, former Director of IT at Queen’s University. Throughout their four month mentorship the two would meet regularly at Starbucks to talk about possible job prospects.

“I was fortunate enough to have this opportunity. Dave has a lot of connections in Kingston.

Everyone in Kingston knows about him,” says ElSharkaway.

Aside from introducing ElSharkaway to prospective employers, Hallet also invited ElSharkawy to his attend one of his Rotary Club meetings and other networking opportunities.

“I tried to introduce him to as many people as I could,” explains Hallet, adding that it was frustrating for him to not have been able to help ElSharkway secure a job. “Many people comment on the lack of senior resources in Kings-

ton and then, on the other hand, I look at these people who come from abroad and they seem to have experience but for some reason the bridge isn’t crossed.”

After their four month mentorship came to an end, ElSharkawy and Hallet drifted apart. That is, until recently.

Hallet, who is now doing consulting for two organizations in the Toronto area, has established a training and consulting operation in Kingston called Cloud Endeavours to address the high demand for individuals who can act as Business Analysts, Project Managers and Developers on SalesForce.com, a cloud computing platform.

One day, during his three hour drive back to Kingston from Toronto, he came up with the idea of recruiting immigrant professionals with IT or business backgrounds - like ElSharkaway - to complete an eight week training course, through which they will become certified Salesforce administrators. They will then gain Canadian work experience working with the consulting company.

ElSharkaway says he was excited when he received a call from Hallet about the opportunity. He is now on week six of his training.

For Hallet, the mentorship program broadened his exposure by introducing him to people with a similar experience, but from a different part of the world.

“Building a network of talented people will always be a benefit, whether it is socially because they are interesting to talk to, or whether it is professionally because we figure out a way to do business together.”

For more information about Mentoring Partnership contact mentoring@keys.ca or call 613.546.5559.

2013

Winner:

One of Canada’s oldest hospitals works with Kingston’s newest Canadians Congratulations to Kingston General Hospital for winning the 2013 Employer Award from the Kingston Immigration Partnership.

KGH is committed to diversity and servicing the needs of the community. As a large employer in Kingston, KGH recruits staff worldwide and brings together many different people from different backgrounds. There are established mechanisms in place to support diversity, a respectful workplace, recruiting, and being a welcoming place for new staff and patients. As part of the KGH’s Cultural Shifts program the ‘Together we’re better - Cultural awareness at KGH’ training was launched in 2013.

The reach into our community by KGH is extensive and the impact and benefits by creating a culturally aware organization are significant. With its programs in place, KGH has the potential to be a model for many other businesses, organizations and institutions in Kingston.

The Kingston Immigration Partnership Employer Award is awarded annually to a local employer that has demonstrated success and leadership in making Kingston a more welcoming and inclusive place for immigrants.

Congratulations to our 2013 Nominees:

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• Residence Inn by Marriott – Kingston Water’s Edge • Ministry of Transportation – Ontario, Eastern Region • The Ambassador Hotel More info: www.kipcouncil.ca

10 Kingston Business Today - Monday, December 2, 2013

@immigrate_Ktown

Thank you to our partners Chamber Mixer: Holiday Gathering Mixer Thursday, Dec. 12, 5 – 7 p.m.

Get festive with some holiday cheer at the Four Points by Sheraton Kingston. A fine evening of business networking, it’s a great chance to meet, greet and connect with old and new friends. Featuring outstanding food and terrific door prizes. Please bring an unwrapped toy or

monetary donation to support the Bell Media Kingston Toy Drive.

Host: Four Points by Sheraton Kingston Sponsor: Investors Group Political Update Breakfast Tuesday, Jan. 14, 7:30 – 9 a.m.

Start the new year off with updates from Kingston’s Mayor, MPP and MP, and hear about their expectations

New Members October 2013 Soloway Wright LLP http://www.solowaywright.com Our experienced team of lawyers supply comprehensive legal services and business solutions, including corporate M&A, succession, re-organization, securities and finance, commercial/ins litigation.

Dishcrawl http://www.dishcrawl.com/kingston Dishcrawl chooses 4 different restaurants in the Downtown Community & through careful planning with each restaurant creates delicious choices of 3 unique menu items to wow our participants.

Economic Update Luncheon Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2014 noon - 1:30 p.m.

Guest Speaker: Pierre Cleroux, Vice President and Chief Economist, Business Development Bank of Canada Event Partner: BDC

Fineline Conditioning www.flc1.com FineLine is an athletic conditioning facility that provides personal and small group training for adults and youth, athletic development and on and off ice hockey programs and clinics.

Bizxcel Inc. www.bizxcel.com Staff and services span from Corporate training & motivations, Business Process Mapping, Project Management as

Host: Fort Henry Discovery Centre Famous February Mixer Thursday, Feb. 20, 2014 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.

The first “can’t miss” event of 2014 – join dozens of exhibitors and hundreds of local business owners to build new connections and strengthen your existing relationships. Networking at its finest!

Host: Kingston Banquet & Conference Centre, Days Inn

well as housing a full IT component that develops software solutions.

AudioConnexus – Maarten Groot http://www.audioconexus.com AudioConexus Inc. is a leader in providing GPS and handheld audio and multimedia interpretation in the global tourism industry.

Software Simplified – Lorrie Watts www.softwaresimplified.ca Customized on-site MS Office training

program that focuses on features that boost users’ productivity the most. Training is delivered in one-on-one and small group sessions.

Queen’s University Athletics and Recreation Dept. www.gogaelsgo.com Queen’s A&R offers an array of services in sports entertainment, fitness and recreation for the university and Kingston communities. Local business & corporate membership packages are available.

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Koprash Inc. www.kfsco.ca Koprash Facilities Services has been providing clients across Ontario with a

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and plans for 2014.

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HRPA’S EMPLOYMENT STANDARDS ACT CONVICTIONS SCOREBOARD

CONVICTIONS

2010

2011

2012

177

424

424 1015

0

0

HRPA MEMBERS

Total

0

0

Sometimes being being shut outout is aisgood thing.thing.

Sometimes shut a good Between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2012, a total of 1,015 companies and individuals were convicted under the Ontario Ministry of Labour’s Employment Standards Act, incurring Between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2012, a total of 1,015 companies and big fines and public shaming on the ministry website.

individuals were convicted under the Ontario Ministry of Labour’s Employment Of all individuals named in these cases,and nonepublic were HRPA members.

Standards Act, incurring big fines shaming on the ministry website.

HRPA regulates the named professional practice of its members whoHRPA agree members. to abide by its Rules of Of all individuals in these cases, none were

Professional Conduct. For more information on how HRPA-member HR professionals can help you reduce your workplace legal and compliance please visit who www.HRPA.ca/ESA HRPA regulates the professional practice ofrisks, its members agree to abide by its

Rules of Professional Conduct. For more information on how HRPA-member HR professionals can help you reduce your workplace legal and compliance risks, please visit www.hrpa.ca/ESAKingston. tario. It connects its membership to an unmatched range of HR information resources, events, professional development and networking opportunithe national standard for excellence in human resources management and the Senior Human Resources Professional (SHRP) designation, reserved for high-impact HR leaders. www.hrpa.ca

HR Information Service is a service of the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA)—Canada’s HR thought leader with more than 20,000 members in 28 chapters across Ontario. HRPA connects its membership to an unmatched range of HR information resources, events, professional development and networking opportunities and annually hosts Canada’s largest HR conference. In Ontario, HRPA issues the Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation, the national standard for excellence in human resources management and the Senior Human Resources Professional (SHRP) designation, reserved for high-impact HR leaders. www.hrpa.ca

12 Kingston Business Today - Monday, December 2, 2013

FILE NAME: 13_SubscriptionService BAR KIN May

PUBLICATION: BAR Chamber of Commerce

PUBLICATION DATE: May