March 2009

March 2009

the

Vol 2 Issue III

of

think e v i t i pos

CHAMBER LAUNCHES NEW PR CAMPAIGN (SEE PAGE 4)

gala

caribbean romance layoffs

guide for employers

P.M. Agreement #1471570 If undeliverable, return to: 175 George Street North, Peterborough, ON K9J 3G6

“A RARE GEM IN THE HEART OF PETERBOROUGH”

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• Outstanding Course Condition • Reciprocal Privileges at 4 top rated courses • Multi-Membership options

youradhere

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• Great Family atmosphere • Fantastic Junior Program • Rated one of Ontario’s Best Layout

Call Today!

There has never been a better time to join!

705.743.3737 • www.kawarthagolf.ca

AGM

annualgeneralmeeting

Consider your Nominations year round October 21, 2009

trentwinds internatiOnal Centre

tuesday march 24th, 2009

Peterborough Curling Club 2195 Lansdowne Street West time: 7:30 am – 9:30 am cost: $20 Members, $30 Non-Members

ber’s m a h C e Meet th ketplace. by over New Mar to be seen

you ess groups location for Here is the er members and busin b 1500 Cham gh and the Kawarthas. u ro o onnected in Peterb it (max. 4 c

65 per un r business, service or For just $ u can list yo onth. units), you age each m s s e m l a n o ment, promoti nth commit r a 6 mo discount fo % 5 a itment. e iv e c Re onth comm m 2 1 a r fo nt 10% discou

200 -748-9771 x 5 0 7 t a ld o ed.

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w w w. p e t e r b o ro u g h c h a m b e r. c a evening

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One on One! A Business Networking Opportunity in a Trade Show Environment.

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It’s that time again, time to start thinking...GOLF!

Our annual Golf Tournament will be held on June 10th at the Kawartha Golf & Country Club.

To take advantage of the great sponsorship opportunities contact the Chamber.

Basic

Enhanced

Enhanced Listings attract up to

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September 16, 2009

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than a Basic listing

Contact Anne Arnold at (705) 748-9771 x 200 or anne@peterboroughchamber.ca to find out more and sign-up today!

1 unit 1.75” w X 2.125” h Contact Anne for multiple unit sizes and file requirements.

yourstaff Stuart Harrison Ext. 202 General Manager Cynthia Hamu Ext. 201 Office Manager Shelley Gauthier Ext. 204 Administrative Assistant Anne Arnold, CSP Ext. 200 Membership Services Manager Cathy Martin Ext. 214 Event Coordinator/Marketing Assistant Lindsay Walker Ext. 210 Front Line Coordinator Krista Laidley Ext. 205 Licensing Supervisor Reception Ext. 0

yourboard

executive/finance Mary LaRocque Chair Marlin Travel Terry Merrill Past-Chair Holiday Inn Peterborough Waterfront Arlynn Dupuis Vice-Chair McGillen Ayotte Dupuis Tony Smith Treasurer Tristone Media Group Stuart Harrison Secretary Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce Jef Dueck Director-At-Large 91.9BOBFM/Country 105/Energy 99.7 Betty Johnson Director-At-Large Century 21 United Realty

directors Dick Crawford Crawford Building Consultants Bob Doornenbal The Peterborough Examiner Brad Hilker Peterborough Regional Health Centre Patric Marren Nationwide Barter Drew Merrett Merrett Home Hardware Building Centre Joel Parkes Kitty’s Erotic Boutique Kamran Qayyum Siemens Milltronics Process Instruments Inc. Diane Wolf Trent University

4 6 8 10 12 13

inside

Think Positive Advertising During Hard Times

regular features ecoflyer

7

Annual Gala

member matters

15

new members

16

A Caribbean Romance

chamber events - club laurus - breakfast club

16

business after hours

17

benefacts

19

here’s my card

20

Upcoming Events Layoffs A guide for Employers

OCC news

the voice of business editor cynthia hamu DESIGN treehouse studio Cover PhotoS stuart harrison Printing commercial press

contributors stuart harrison Stuart Harrison is the General Manager of the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce and can be reached at 705.748.9771 x202 or stuart@ peterboroughchamber.ca

Brian Stephenson Brian Stephenson is the Creative Director and owner of Treehouse Studio and can be reached at 705.930.5426 or brian@ treehousestudio.ca

www.solutionsatwork.info

The Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce 175 George St. N. Peterborough 705.748.9771 www.peterboroughchamber.ca

www.peterboroughchamber.ca

Mayor Paul Ayotte City of Peterborough Karl Moher Douro-Dummer Deputy Reeve County of Peterborough Marg Dawson Peterborough County Federation of Agriculture

www.treehousestudio.ca

appointments

Gord Evans Gord Evans is the CEO of the Workforce Development Board and can be reached at 705.749.3250 or workforce@wdb.ca

bystuart harrison

t

positivematters

The following is the text that will appear in the first series of ads Tough times are when progressive companies grow….

The current economy represents a major challenge for many as businesses and employees suffer through significant change. Through it all we have many reasons to remain positive and confident.

A year from now this will still be a strong community with a strong and diverse economic base, and hopefully we’ll be looking back on this recession.

It’s helpful to compare what we’re going through now, with what we’ve gone through before.

- The Bank of Canada predicts that Canada’s 2009 GDP will shrink by up to 1.2%. In 1982 it fell by 3.2% and in 1991 by 1.8%. Even with the increased spending recently

announced in the Federal Budget, Canada’s debt-toGDP ratio will rise to only 28%, the lowest level in the G7 group of industrialized countries.

- TD Economics is predicting the 2009 national unemployment rate to range from 7.7% to 8.9%.

In both 1983 and 1991 it was 11%.

Burning the Midnight Oil?

 BDC Financing and Consulting solutions: just one of the many ways we can help our clients get a better night’s sleep. www.bdc.ca

BDC Peterborough 705-750-4801

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thevoiceofbusiness

1 888 INFO-BDC

- Interest rates on mortgages have fallen, - Gasoline prices have fallen dramatically, - the Federal Budget is pumping billions of dollars into stimulus initiatives, including millions into the local economy.

We’ve had recessions before and most good companies emerge stronger, so think positive!

The Chamber of Commerce, with generous support from the local media, is launching the THINK Positive campaign, designed to profile a number of significant investments in the community by local businesses, to highlight some local success stories, and to provide some perspective to the general public. In short, with everyone to do the exact opposite of what they are currently doing… in other words THINK Positive! The campaign will launch with a profile of three specific projects, the Lansdowne Place expansion, the new Peterborough Volkswagen dealership on Chemong Road, and the expansion of Flying Colours at the Peterborough Airport.

There are other companies and projects that we hope to add in the coming weeks, and we also hope to hear about more. To that end we will also offer a way for you to participate.

4. We will do our part using our own emails and publications, and we are wide open to other ideas about how to spread the word that Peterborough is well positioned to weather the economic storm.

The campaign will consist of the following elements: 1. Three Public Service Announcements (PSA’s) profiling the three companies mentioned above.

2. Radio PSA’s, some specific as above, some more generic in nature, but all carrying the THINK Positive message.

3. We will also be making available specific marketing material such as the THINK Positive logo, a banner graphic designed to fit on the bottom of a print ad, or some text that can be added to a radio or television ad, so that if you want to add the image to your existing ad you can (See Brian Stephenson’s article on the next page about marketing in a recession). The media may also want to create a specific ad-campaign built around the theme and we have encouraged them to do so.

If you would like to utilize the logo and marketing materials in your own ad campaign, or you want to share an story idea, please contact: Stuart Harrison General Manager Peterborough Chamber of Commerce 705-748-9771 ext 202 or email stuart@peterboroughchamber.ca

This May, join us for the

: Goals

ity ductiv o r p e eas sm 1. incr e absenteei tes c u y d lit ra 2. re disabi yee morale e c u d e plo 3. r ve em lace stress o r p ployer m 4. i od em orkp o w g e a c u s 5. red cognized a ader e le r t y t e i g 6. mun m o c 7. be a the: : ge Action register for ng Gears hallen C i t n f o i i t Sh por ta Trans e c a l p Work

SHIFTING GEARS Workplace Transportation Challenge For one month, support your employees to walk, bike, bus or carpool to work.

Have fun.Win Prizes.

Get recognized.

Wi ll w e catc h you Shifting Gea r s ?

City of Peterborough Peterborough Green-Up Peterborough County-City Health Unit Wild Rock Outfitters

peterboroughmoves.com ( 7 0 5 ) 7 4 5 3 2 3 8 e x t. 2 2 1 thevoiceofbusiness

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advertisingmatters

by brian stephenson, creative director, treehouse studio

e

Does it pay to advertise during hard times? Yes! conomists across the country say that we are headed into a “recession”. Times will be tough for all businesses, large or small, and we will all struggle. We will be faced with tight budgets and tough decisions. It’s not the first time, and it won’t be the last.

Many businesses will decide to cut their advertising, marketing and promotional budgets to reduce their spending and preserve their cash flow.

They will wait out the upcoming months, and year, to see what the economy will do. Will it fix itself?

Will the bailouts work? When will it happen?

When will it be over?

So, should you keep waiting or take action for your own business? Here’s the answer… “Take action.”

Smart businesses that maintain or increase their advertising and marketing spending, average significantly higher sales growth during a recession, and for three years following, than those businesses that reduced or cut their spending, according to McGraw-Hill Research.

“we GOT ONE!” Sara & Bruce Canadian Distribution Channel Peterborough

PROVIDING BUSINESS LOANS FOR NEW AND EXPANDING BUSINESSES. Competitive rates, flexible terms, start-up information, business planning and business counselling!

Helping your business get to the next level.

Call 705-745-5434 Visit us at 351 Charlotte St. in Ptbo or on the web www.cdc.on.ca

w w w. c d c . o n . c a

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thevoiceofbusiness

that they are stable enough to withstand the storm, and continue to aggressively draw clients to “their” business, while others lose their market share.

Now is the time to take a stand and position yourself in the current economy. Remember what it took to start your business, make a name in your community and create brand recognition?

By withdrawing yourself from the public you may temporarily keep a few dollars in the bank.

However, trying to reinvent your company all over again, following a recession, will cost you far more than you might expect.

This is a crucial time for your business, and there has never been a better time to invest in “effective” advertising

The reality is: people need to eat; will need gas for their cars, children will need supplies for school; homes still need household supplies; business still need equipment and services. Non-profit organizations work harder to compete for funds.

Those who decide to sit back and wait it out, lose out on tremendous growth opportunities.

Companies that advertise show the consumer and other businesses

This is a crucial time for your business and there has never been a better time to invest in “effective” advertising, marketing and creative design.

So, what can you do?

Focus on your core values: Reinforce your brand and remind customers why you are different and better.

Market to your target audience: Define and communicate to your optimal clients. Target and market your product or service specifically to them.

Stay consistent with the use of effective advertising: The long-term benefits will be worth it. If your brand is stale, refresh it. If it’s all over the board, fix it. Over time the rewards will pay off.

Keep or increase your advertising budget: Continue to promote your products and services, keep your customers happy and, in the end, you’ll be more stable.

ecoflyer

GOLF It’s th at tim e ag ai n, to st ar t th in ki ng ...

G O LF !

Our annual Golf Tournament will be held June 10th at the Kawartha Gol f & Country Club. To take advantage of the great sponsorship opportuniti es or to participate, please contact the Chamber.

$150 +G ST Per Per son

For some businesses, a downturn is an opportunity to gain market share.

Thus, we are introducing a new feature in our monthly Voice of Business Magazine and on-line.

The Magazine is distributed not only to our over 1000 members, but members of the Women’s Business Network, Sales and Ad, the Homebuilders Associatio n and Construction Exchange and the Kawartha Manufacturers Association.

This new feature will start in February.

Con tact Cat hy Mar tin 748 -97 71 x21 4 cath y@p eter boroug hch amb er.c a

The

ecoflyer will provide portunity you with an op er-style to send your fly ways message three e of for one low pric

$ 225

Call Anne and book today!

Arnold, CSP Contact Anne e re, and reserv to find our mo e next issue. your spot for th

Get More, for Less!

1 As a .pdf file on ou r “ecoFlyer” page on our website.

2 As a text-based m essage and hyperlink in one of our bi-monthly email blas ts.

3 As a 1/6 page ad on the “ecoFlyer” page in our Magazine.

Plus...

You no longer have to print a flyer!

1 x 200

(705) 748-977

thevoiceofbusiness

7

chambergala by cynthia hamu

o

A Caribbean Romance n Saturday, February 14th, The Chamber’s 120th Gala, sponsored by McCloskey International, was held in celebration of our 2009 Board Chair Mary LaRocque. The Gala Committee’s goal had been to create “A Caribbean Romance” atmosphere and they certainly outdid themselves! Here are some of the comments of those in attendance: “Congratulations to all involved it was a great evening!”

“You really transformed this room to capture the Caribbean theme – it looks fabulous!”

“It was an amazing evening!” “……you put on an excellent Gala on Saturday night. My wife and I had a blast and will try and attend from now on……….”

Kim MacDonald, and her crew at That Special Touch Wedding & Event Decor, did an outstanding job of transforming the Evinrude into a veritable Caribbean Wonderland. From the moment guests arrived at the Evinrude to embark on their Caribbean adventure, they were greeted aboard by the Captain and the Cruise Director (Wayne Lockyer and Sherri Kemp of That Special Touch, who were dressed in costume); to the hallway resembling a ship’s deck; to the colourful island colours and lit tropical centrepieces on each of the tables; to the Tiki Hut displays around the room, including the Bar area, the stage, and the backdrop for the photos; the effect was perfect and tied in beautifully with our Caribbean theme. The décor was sponsored by The Peterborough Examiner.

Just before entering the festively decorated room, guests were served Rum Punch and could help themselves to a treat from the Appetizer Tree, compliments of Chef Christopher’s Catering. For those of you not in attendance, here is how the Appetizer Tree works - it consists of a metal frame populated with Tasting Spoons filled with feta

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thevoiceofbusiness

cheese, dried apricot, a slice of apple and just a hint of mint; guests removed a spoon from the frame, consumed the goodies, placed the soiled spoon in a dish then, before you could blink, one of the St. Peter’s Students assisting Chef Christopher would replenish the tree with a freshly filled spoon. What a treat!

During the Cocktail Hour, guests were entertained with live music by Steel Drum Hu, sponsored by Betty Johnson of Century 21 United Realty, while mingling and having their complimentary picture taken by Miranda Studios, sponsored by Morrison & Hollingsworth and Vincent Press. Chef Christopher’s Catering provided a sumptuous meal, complete with a superb dessert – Stacked Pina Colada Cake. Our dinner appetizers of Caribbean Shrimp Kabobs and Marinated Pulled Pork, were sponsored by Shimano; and the wonderful wine served with dinner, was sponsored by McWilliams Moving & Storage.

Dinner was capped off with draws for many wonderful prizes, and the excitement built to a crescendo with the Grand Prize Draw of a Caribbean Cruise for 2, sponsored by TV Cogeco.

Congratulations to the Grand Prize winner Kathy Doornenbal, of Driving Miss Daisy!

The dinner and draws were followed by an evening of dancing to lively entertainment from Terry Guiel and Jericho’s Wall, who rocked the night away for all! To finish off a perfect Valentine’s evening, when they gathered their coats, each of the ladies received a beautiful long-stemmed rose, compliments of Adirondack Technologies.

Such accomplishments cannot be achieved without the support and assistance of many and, for this we offer much gratitude to the efforts of our 2009 Gala Committee, chaired by Sharon Legon, of The Terra Group.

We are grateful to our sponsors, our wonderful volunteers, and to everyone who attended, for all of your support. Due to the dedication, teamwork and commitment from all of you, we were successful in ensuring everyone enjoyed ‘A Caribbean Romance’ and eagerly anticipate our 121st Chamber Gala!

Thank you again to all of our sponsors!

Event Sponsor: McCloskey International Ltd. Decor: Peterborough Examiner Appetizers: Shimano Wine: McWilliams Moving & Self Storage Ltd. Cocktail Band: Betty Johnson - Century21 United Realty Inc. Guest Photos by Miranda Studios: Morrison & Hollingsworth The Vincent Press Early Bird Limo: Ambassador Limousine Coat Check: The Terra Group Flowers: Adirondack Technologies Additional Evening Sponsors: Cabinetree Diversified Communications

Grand Prize Sponsor: TV Cogeco

Door Prize Sponsors: AMJ Liftlock Self-Storage Arbonne International Bliss Esthetic Excellence Inc. Coach Canada Crime & Trauma Scene Cleaners The Market Hall Nationwide Barter OLG Slots at Kawartha Downs Peterborough Golf & Country Club Shish-Kabob Hut That Special Touch Wedding & Event Decor Tonali Holistic Studio The Terra Group Pro-Tech Pool & Spa Services

Additional thanks to Vincent Press, Printing AMJ Self-Storage & Chemong Home Hardware thevoiceofbusiness

9

Upcoming Events... annualgeneralmeeting tuesday march 24th, 2009 Quality Professional Service

location: Peterborough Curling Club, 2195 Lansdowne Street West time: 7:30 am – 9:30 am cost: $20 Members, $30 Non-Members please note: This event must be pre-paid.

Sponsored by OLG Don’t miss this great opportunity to hear from, and ask questions of, all four levels of Government. The Mayor, the County Warden, and the Provincial and Federal Governments will all be represented, to you an update on their activities, and be available to answer your questions.

clublaurus thursday march 26th, 2009 1840 Lansdowne St. W., #14

location: Mexicali Rosa’s, 320 Water Street guest speaker: Jeffrey Lingard, CA, Morrison & Hollingsworth time: 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm cost: $5 at the door

Peterborough, Ontario K9K 2M9 Phone: (705) 749-EXIT (3948) Website: www.exitrealtyliftlock.com

businessafterhours tuesday april 7th, 2009 location: Discovery Dream Homes, 4 McCloskey Rd time: 4:00 - 6:00 pm cost: Free, Compliments of OLG Slots at Kawartha Downs please note: Pre-registration is required for this event.

breakfastclub tuesday april 14th, 2009 location: Carousel Restaurant, 116 Lansdowne Street East time: 7:30 am cost: Pay for your breakfast please note: You do not need to register for this event.

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thevoiceofbusiness

Looking Ahead – April/May ’09

Growing your business...t o ge t h e r !

clublaurus thursday april 23rd, 2009 location: Mexicali Rosa’s, 320 Water Street time: 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm cost: $5 at the door

businessafterhours tuesday may 5th, 2009

• Competitive rates on commercial loans and mortgages • Flexible payment options • Local credit approvals

location: Phoenix Alternative Learning Centre, 1097 Water Street time: 4:00 - 6:00 pm cost: Free, Compliments of OLG Slots at Kawartha Downs please note: Pre-registration is required for this event.

www.kawarthacu.com

breakfastclub tuesday may 12th, 2009 location: Carousel Restaurant, 116 Lansdowne Street East time: 7:30 am cost: Pay for your breakfast please note: You do not need to register for this event.

38thannualgolftournament tuesday june 10th, 2009 location: Kawartha Golf & Country Club time: Lunch from 11am – 12:45pm

1 p.m. Shotgun Start cost: $150.00 + GST per person Sponsored by Cabinetree and Higgins Hardwood Flooring note: Many sponsorship opportunities available.

For more information contact Cathy at 748-9771 ext. 214 or email at cathy@peterboroughchamber.ca

Proud of Our Past, Positive About Our Future

Peterborough Omemee • Bobcaygeon

(705) 742-4245 • 1-800-387-1627

registrationinformation Unless otherwise specified, registration is required for all Chamber events. To register, please call 748-9771 Ext. 0 or email register@peterboroughchamber.ca.

youradhere

www.darlinginsurance.net

to check for availablity and secure your spot contact: Anne Arnold 705.748.9771 x200

thevoiceofbusiness

11

survivalmatters

bygord evans, CEO of the workforce development board

t

Layoffs - A Guide for Employers he difficult task of laying-off employees not only affects your business; it affects the reputation of your business, employees’ morale and the community at large. Employers must be organized and have a well thought out plan in order to survive a layoff and to ensure a positive outcome for all involved.

What You Need It is important to consider all legal responsibilities, ethical responsibilities, and the community’s expectations. You need to be prepared to answer questions like why the layoffs are occurring and when they will take effect. You should know the amount of money that your company is able to contribute to adjustment programs. In order to ease employees into the layoff period, prepare a written statement indicating the reason why the decision was made and how it affects everybody. As long as you plan well for the layoff, you can avoid creating a negative image for your business. Employees will be looking to you to be their guide for survival, so remember to be respectful, supportive, straightforward and clear.

What Your Employees Need There are certain ways that you can make the process of a layoff easier on employees. Contact Employment Ontario’s Adjustment Advisory Program, a service that offers options for providing employees with technical and financial assistance. If you wish to speak with the advisor in your area, you can call the Hotline at 1-800387-5656. Another way to help employees is to set up an Action Centre. An Action Centre is a mini-employment centre that provides a base for employees to gather for workshops, conduct job searches, meet with counsellors, develop individual action plans, and access information on a wide range of training and work-related matters. By providing employees with opportunities to survive a layoff, you enable your reputation as an employer to survive as well.

Breaking the News to the Community Explain to the community why the layoff is happening, but only after your employees have been fully informed. Be honest and open. This is an opportunity to reassert your business’ commitment to the community and protect your reputation as a good employer.

For the full survival guide as well as a checklist to help employees, visit the ‘Publications’ section of www.solutionsatwork.info

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thevoiceofbusiness

YourChamber Ontario Chamber of Commerce 2009 Business Climate Survey A recent analysis of the 2009 Ontario Business Climate Survey reveals that respondents are -- not surprisingly -- concerned about the Ontario economy, but believe the provincial government should provide taxation and regulatory relief in order to help businesses weather the storm.

While over 80% expect the performance of the Ontario economy to be somewhat or much weaker in 2009 than in 2008, a majority of respondents are far more optimistic about the future of their own companies, with 55% believing that they will perform the same or better this year.

A copy of the complete analysis of the survey can be found on the Ontario Chamber of Commerce website at www. occ.on.ca.

A Huge Win for Business After much lobbying by the chamber network in Ontario, starting in January 2009, businesses will only be required to file ONE corporate tax return, under ONE set of rules and deal with ONE auditor. The Ontario Chamber of Commerce has been a strong advocate for the streamlining of tax services and reducing red tape.

Corporate tax harmonization will save Ontario business up to $200 million annually and immediately reduce the paperwork burden. More information regarding this matter is available on the Ontario Chamber of Commerce website at www.occ.on.ca.

New Tax Measure for a Segment of Ontario’s Business Population A highly specified segment of Ontario’s business population will soon be able to take advantage of a new tax measure. This tax incentive would refund the amount of Ontario Corporate Income Tax and Corporate Minimum Tax paid in the taxation year, for up to the corporation’s first 10 taxation years.

To qualify for this new tax measure the company must be

incorporated in Canada after March 24, 2008 and before March 25, 2012.

This new company must generate all, or most of its revenue from commercializing intellectual property from a government-identified “priority growth area.” These are: advanced health, bio-economy (which includes clean energy technologies), telecommunications, computer or digital media technologies and other new technologies that may be prescribed. Furthermore, eligible intellectual property must be developed by an employee or a student of a qualifying Canadian research institution in order to qualify for the tax refund.

In a recent submission, the OCC urged the province to expand the qualification criteria to include more “start-up” companies and broaden the industry qualification criteria to consider other innovative sectors such as mining, forestry and agriculture.

This would indeed benefit Ontario’s economy, especially with the foreseeable challenges impacting our business climate.

For further information please contact Sonia Mistry, Policy Analyst, at soniamistry@occ.on.ca or 416-428-5222 ext. 240.

For additional information on Ontario Chamber of Commerce activities, please refer to their website at ww.occ.on.ca.

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13

MEMBERmatters headlines

4th Line Theatre Announces the Summer Line Up 4th Line Theatre in Millbrook has recently announced two world premieres in 2009. From June 30th to August 1st, “The Right Road to Pontypool”, written by Alex Poch-Goldin and directed by Kim Blackwell and, from August 10th to August 29th, “Welcome Death”, written and directed by Robert Winslow.

For more information, please visit www.4thlinetheatre.on.ca or call 705-932-4448.

Crawford Building Consultants Managing Kawartha Dairy’s Expansion Plans More ice cream for all!

Crawford Building Consultants, of Lakefield, is pleased to be working with Kawartha Dairy of Bobcaygeon on their exciting new future expansion plans. Crawford has saved the dairy over $800,000 by working closely with them as they develop their plans to expand ice cream production. Services provided so far include concept site plans, process layout, and consulting and engineering services with respect to production equipment. For more information Crawford Building Consultants can be reached at 705-652-1100 or check out their website at www.crawfordbuilding.com Kawartha Dairy Opening Their Seventh Store Kawartha Dairy will be opening their seventh corporate store in Peterborough in March 2009.

The Bobcaygeon-based, family-owned operation will be opening the store on High Street, across from Lansdowne Place Mall. The store will feature a milk drive-thru, which will provide customers with added convenience, and they will carry a full line of dairy products, including their famous rich and premium ice cream, made with fresh milk and real cream from local area farms. To learn more about Kawartha Dairy, please visit their website at: www.kawarthadairy.com

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thevoiceofbusiness

Driving Miss Daisy Now in Peterborough are located at 2085 Whittington Drive, Building 7a, unit B in the Fleming Driving Miss Daisy recently announced Industrial Park next to Sysco Foods. For its first Franchisee in Ontario, more information call 705-741-5900, and she is Kathy Doornenbal of or visit them online at www.gonavis.com Peterborough. The company provides senior services including reliable My Left Breast Has Moved! Bridget and safe accompaniment for medical began My Left Breast after going and dental appointments, grocery or through Breast Cancer herself. She personal shopping, home support, wanted to provide women with an adult day programs, airport service, elegant and safe place to come for even vacation and social event mastectomy and cancer care products. accompaniment! As well as serving Bridget also provides people with as a liaison between medical staff and well-researched information and family, and providing an avenue of products to help everyone reduce their respite care for spouses, adult children everyday toxic chemical exposures. and caregivers. There are 31 Franchises Which is why she carries alternatives operating out west. Watch for the to plastics, paraben free shampoos, blue PT Cruiser “Daisymobile” To reach creams, water-based nail polish, and Kathy Doornenbal call 705-868-0074, even sugar based hair sprays. You can email kathy@drivingmissdaisy.net or visit Bridget at her new location at the check out their website at new Peterborough Clinic, 26 Hospital www.drivingmissdaisy.net Drive, Peterborough, or visit www.myleftbreast.ca or call Sarge’s Army Surplus Now Open in 705-876-3333.

Peterborough Sarge’s Army Surplus store just opened at 291 George Joint PST – GST/HST Seminars Street, across from Showplace. It is Being Offered Together the Ontario an Army Surplus Store with new and Ministry of Revenue and Canada used Military clothing, boots, camping Revenue Agency continue to deliver gear, blankets, jackets, parkas, free, fully integrated provincial sales p-coats, British wooly pully’s, t-shirts, tax (PST) and goods and services packs, and lots more from all over tax/harmonized sales tax (GST/HST) the world. Owner Ian Kyle just retired seminars across the province. from the Army, where he was based The seminars are geared towards in Petawawa. Sarge’s Army Surplus is small to medium-size businesses, are open from 10:00 – 5:00pm, Tuesday available in both official languages, through Saturday. Call 705-741-0811. and continue to educate and inform Navis Pack and Ship Offers Custom taxpayers about how these taxes work.

Packing and Shipping Navis Pack These seminars are an opportunity to and Ship is a new franchise in inform and educate taxpayers about Peterborough, specializing in custom federal and provincial tax laws, which packing and shipping for difficult-towill encourage voluntary compliance ship items. If you have fragile, large, and assist in combating the awkward, or valuable items Navis can underground economy. If you have any help. Owner Dave Corneil says they can questions regarding these seminars, pack and ship antique furniture, fine or would like a registration form, art, trade show items, commercial and please contact Tammy Cruikshanks industrial machinery, and business and at 905-433-6129. medical equipment, both domestically Does your business have some new and exciting news to share? If so, please and internationally. submit your information (approximately 75 words) to info@peterboroughchamber.ca by the 1st of As well, they do the preceeding month for inclusion in the next month’s issue (i.e. February’s newsletter, January 1st small moves. They deadline). Please note that information will be printed at the General Manager’s discretion.

newmembers

If the tooth fairy won’t pay your dental bills,

welcome to our new members who joined the Chamber from January 12 - February 11, 2009 2039486 Ontario Limited O/A Pinchin Environmental Ltd. Axess Self Storage Solutions Consultants - Environmental

Spotlight Home & Lifestyle Inc.

Storage and Warehousing Richard Kwasniewicz (705) 761-6270 www.axessstorage.ca

Mike Wilson (705) 748-6927 www.pinchin.com

Custom Homes, Renovations Garnet Northey (705) 657-9777 www.spotlighthomeandlifestyle.com

Dr. Jack Chiang Dentistry Professional Co. Health Care Practitioners Jack Chiang (705) 745-6261

Financial Institutions & Banking Services Ed Tessier (705) 761-4883 www.realtimems.com

Driving Miss Daisy

Simply Sushi

Senior Services Mobile Kathy Doornenbal (705) 868-0074 www.drivingmissdaisy.net

Restaurants - Take Out Shawn Stephenson (705) 743-9000 www.simplysushi.ca

Real Time Merchant Services

WE CAN!

HELP IS HERE, WITH AFFORDABLE GROUP COVERAGE DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR SMALL TO MEDIUM SIZED BUSINESSES. See why over 20,000 business owners selected this plan!

Total Physiotherapy & Sports Injuries Centre Health Care Practitioners Kevin Hickey (705) 749-1313

 please utilize their services whenever possible 

Brian Bulger

(

1.877.277.0677 www.chambers.ca

)

p. 705.741.1400 f. 705.741.1225 e. bbulger@thelifeinsuranceguy.com w. thelifeinsuranceguy.com

Please note: the Chamber & Licensing Offices will be closed on the following dates: n Friday, April 10th, 2009 – Good Friday n Monday, May 18th, 2009 – Victoria Day n Wednesday, July 1st, 2009 – Canada Day n Monday, August 3th, 2009 – Civic Holiday n Monday, September 7th, 2009 – Labour Day n Monday, October 12th, 2009 – Thanksgiving n Thursday, December 24th, 2009 – Christmas Eve (Close at 2pm) n Friday, December 25th, 2009 – Christmas Day n Monday, December 28th, 2009 – Boxing Day n Thursday, December 31st, 2009 – New Year’s Eve (Close at 3pm) n Friday, January 1st, 2010 – New Year’s Day

thevoiceofbusiness

15

Chamberevents clublaurus

Club Laurus Profile Winner

Mexicali Rosa’s  by Brooke Turney (Nexicom) , Committee Co-chair What a way to begin a brand new year!

The first Club Laurus meeting of 2009 took place on Thursday, January 22nd at Mexicali Rosa’s.

With a magical Mexican back drop, our group enjoyed a great deal of networking and welcomed local businessman, Michael Skinner, President and CEO of Operitel, as our first guest speaker of the year. Michael profiled his successful business and gave us his views on what it takes to be a business dynamo early on in one’s career.

This is truly why Club Laurus was formed two years ago. Sharing stories of successes and downfalls amongst a group of business professionals very similar in age and experience is so invaluable. Club Laurus welcomes all Chamber members, and is geared to those under 40, to join us at Mexicali Rosa’s on Thursday, February 26th so you too can be part of this unique experience. Please feel free to bring a guest along with you to February’s meeting where we will be ‘Speed Networking.’ This activity is a great way to get to know fellow business professionals in our Community, introduce guests and really stretch our networking muscles. Hope you can join us!

The Klout Marketing System is a proven way to boost sales without spending more, by first answering the all important question: “Why should customers do business with you instead of your competitors?” The answer to this is your competitive advantage or Unique Value Proposition.

But having this is just the beginning.

The system then captures Future Buyers in addi-tion to NOW buyers.

Putting your brand far ahead of the competition.

In response to the economic crisis we are offering Chamber Members a FREE copy of our newly published report: “Absolute Zero-Risk Guide to Ultra-Profits in a Recession”

If you have an employee or staff member you feel could benefit by joining us, please encourage them to check us out too. Register by calling the Chamber Office at 748-9771 x0 or email register@ peterboroughchamber.ca

membertomember

savings program

Michael reinforced the benefits of doing business here in the Peterborough marketplace and also how his company works closely with the area’s college and university to ensure his staff are well educated, and, very often, local folks. A very enthusiastic question and answer period ensued following Michael’s

Congratulations to Klout Marketing

presentation and many great conversations were stimulated.

Simply send a blank email to members-guide@klout.ca and it’s yours. We hope it helps. www.klout.ca 705-760-6037

Check out the downloadable flyer on the Chamber website at peterboroughchamber.ca for a complete listing of all the great savings you and your employess can enjoy by simply being a member of the Chamber.

NEW this month:  Bennett’s Home Furnishings Save the Taxes - No GST or PST on any furniture or mattress

purchase.

Final clearance, special value or sale prices do not qualify.

Offer not valid on extra charges such as delivery, administration fees, extended protection fees, disposal fees, etc.

www.bennetts.ca

705 749-9273

Valid at both Bennett stores.

16

thevoiceofbusiness

sponsored by:

businessafterhours

Jan 6  by Bob Behan (The Protectors Group), BAH Committee Chair Debbie and Morgan Smith, of Sign-ARama, hosted the February BAH. They provided an inside look at the exciting and interesting world of the sign business.

Their independently owned business is part of a collection of more than 850 sign stores globally, which gives them some economies of scale advantages. But, most importantly, gives them the ability to adopt and use the latest technology to produce quality signs for your business.

The independently owned element allows them to personally focus on the client’s need and provide that extra service, unique to owner-operated businesses.

Over 110 Chamber members enjoyed the wonderful selection of food and beverages, while taking advantage of the informative tours of Sign-A-Rama’s new location at 774 Rye Street. Debbie, Morgan and their personnel provided

first class hospitality, which I expect didn’t surprise any of us given their track record of professionalism.

It is difficult to imagine a better environment for networking and it is terrific to see a significant number of new people attending. This can only benefit all of us in the Peterborough Business Community.

Sign-A-Rama is a full service sign store and invites you to consider them if you need any type of sign including Banners, Box Signs, Channel Letters, Custom Graphics, Vehicle Wraps, Vehicle Lettering, Custom Logos, Digital Graphics, Individual Letters, Exterior Lighting, Neon Signs or simply sign service.

Thank you Sign-A-Rama for your hospitality!

We look forward to seeing you at the March BAH being held at Canterbury Gardens Retirement Residence from 4 to 6pm on Tuesday, March 3rd.

thevoiceofbusiness

17

breakfastclub

January ď‚ by Betty Johnson (Century 21 United Realty), Breakfast Club Committee Co-chair Our Breakfast Speaker for January was Brad Huggins of Morrison & Hollingsworth and Brad updated us on new updates on the tax radar.

A new Tax-free savings account (TFSA) - Allows Canadians to save up to $5,000.00/year and pay no tax on the interest, beginning January 1, 2009.

Individual Pension Plans (IPP) - An Individual Pension Plan is designed and structured for one individual member and is beneficial for owners/ managers of a corporation who have a high annual income. Pension plans are deductible to the corporation.

Employment and Business Expenses, if you own a business or have an employee, you may deduct - Home Office Expenses, such as, if the home

of the vehicle. The CRA will disallow vehicle expenses if no log book is kept.

is the principal place of business or where you principally perform your duties of employment or, if it is used exclusively for business or employment purposes and is used on a regular and continuous basis for meeting clients or customers of your business or employment. Automobile Expenses: If your employer provided you with a vehicle which is used for personal use, then the calculated taxable benefit of the personal use of the vehicle is added to your employment income. If you use your vehicle for business purposes, you are able to claim the business portion of the capital cost allowance on the cost of the vehicle and deduct the business portion of the operating costs of the vehicle. A log book should be kept showing the business and personal use

As well, Brad discussed the Advantages and Disadvantages of Incorporating your business. A great deal of information was covered in a very short period of time.  Brad Huggins and Diane Clark are partners and have owned the company for 26 years and, if you have any accounting questions concerning any of these topics, they would be pleased to assist with any accounting information you may require.  Thanks Brad for a very informative talk!

Peterborough’s #1 Source for News and Information in Print and On-line.

www.peterboroughexaminer.com

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thevoiceofbusiness

benefacts

by Brian Bulger

What Is Group Insurance?

Group insurance, simply explained, is a method of insuring a group of individuals who, in most instances are a group of employees, union or association members, for certain benefits under one master contract or policy.

Group insurance began as a method of insuring a group of employees for life insurance under one policy.

I don’t know the exact date, but I believe it was close to 100 years ago group insurance was first marketed to large firms in North America. It was considered an innovation at the time, because the setting up of one policy to cover a group of people saved the additional work of issuing individual polices for each participant within the group.

The theory was that a group policy would reduce the insurer’s expenses and in turn reduce the premium rates. The approach was very

appealing and it wasn’t long before numerous insurance companies began to offer and set up group life insurance contracts for employee groups.

Over time insurance companies received requests to provide coverage for other risks, such as income replacement, for employees who might become disabled and unable to work. Some of the first types of disability policies offered were actually “riders” on group life contracts. The “riders” would in some cases read as follows: “If an insured person becomes totally and permanently disabled prior to age 60, the face amount of the policy will be divided and paid out to the certificate holder in 60 equal monthly instalments.”

In present times, group insurance policies comprise an extensive range

of services, from the traditional life insurance benefit to short and long term disability, dental, drugs, medical health, paramedical services, dependent life, critical illness, employee assistance programs, vision care, business overhead expense and emergency medical travel expenses.

There are group automobile plans available now, and even health plans to cover Veterinarian bills for pets. Group insurance will continue to evolve as the needs of people change and insurance companies find new opportunities to generate revenue.

This article has been brought to you exclusively by your Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan Agent/Broker, Brian Bulger. For more information, Brian can be reached at 741-1400.

thevoiceofbusiness

19

HEATHER HARVEY Certified General Accountant

Providing small to medium sized businesses and entrepreneurs with accounting and financial management services.

469 Water Street Peterborough, ON K9H 3M2

Here’s myCard

Bus: (705) 743-8200 Fax: (705) 748-0225 Email: hharvey@ontariobusiness.net

• Reach over 1500 members of the Chamber, plus members of Sales & Ad, Women’s Business Network, Kawartha Manufacturers Association, Home Builders Association, plus major industrial and non-industrial employers • $95 / mo. with a 6 month commitment – Full Colour • Back Cover exposure!

Call Anne Arnold at 748-9771 x200 to book your spot, first come-first served.

MARTIN WORMALD

President

RENT SECURITY SYSTEMS LTD. Burglar Alarms - Fire Alarms - Closed Circuit TV Fire Extinguisher, Distress Alarms ULC Alarm Monitoring P.O. Box 2481, 480 The Parkway Peterborough, ON K9J 7Y8 Tel: 748-2001 Fax: 748-2041 Email: martin@trentsecurity.com Website: trentsecurity.com

Martin Boruta President

martin@shawcomputer.com

1434 Chemong Road, Unit 1 & 2 P.O. Box 2379 Peterborough ON K9J 7Y8 Telephone: (705) 742-2204 Fax: (705) 742-8312