Minding Our Business V1 N10-10/08

MINDING OUR

BUSINESS CENTRE WELLINGTON

VOLUME 1 ISSUE 10

Fire Prevention October 2008 PUBLISHED IN COOPERATION WITH THE WELLINGTON ADVERTISER

MILE STONES A First Congratulations to Sublime Flowers & Décor, 215 St. Andrew St W Fergus, on their first ‘Good Neighbour Day’, held on September 3rd. A total of 786 roses were given away. Congrats also to Eccelstone Financial Group, Roxannes Reflections Book & Card Shop, Ron Wilkin Jeweller, Stonehurst B & B, Cherry Hill Entertainment, Thomson Funeral Home, Kimberly’s of Fergus, Minuteman Press and Sam Dirksen from Results Fitness for supporting this event that put smiles on so very many faces.

New Business New Businesses On Sept. 19th, St Andrew Street West, Fergus officially became home to five new businesses located in the Old Fergus Bowling Alley. The building is owned and operated by James Sinkeldam, Elora and Rowan McLean, Fergus, principals with Mason Capital Corp (MCC). Recognizing the history of the building, several areas incorporate ‘bowling lane’ materials in counter and boardroom tables.

The businesses include Abby Rose Floral Boutique (519.843.7820), Domino’s Pizza (519.843.8383) Mason Capital Corp (519.843.8896), Sparkle and Shine Janitorial Services (519.787.1869), and techs go (519.787.2139). Welcome and congratulations to all.

MINDING OUR

BUSINESS

is mailed to all registered businesses in Centre Wellington.

Not registered as a business with Canada Post? Misplaced your copy?

Pick up a copy of Minding Our Business at: Centre Wellington Chamber of Commerce, The Wellington Advertiser, Fergus BIA, Elora BIA, Wellington-Waterloo Futures Development Corporation

PAGE 2 | October 08

In August, Pam Edmunds opened her own business called Just for You Signs and Designs. Pam specializes in designing unique customs signs and logos. She may be reached at 519.826.8459.

about

THIS ISSUE

MINDING OUR

BUSINESS

Minding Our Business is a business magazine focusing on items of interest to commercial, retail, industrial and service businesses in Centre Wellington.

COVER Featured on our cover is Public Safety Officer, Tom Mulvey of the Centre Wellington Fire Department.

For insight on Fire Prevention at Businesses see our centrespread, pages 8-9.

2

MILESTONES Openings | Awards | Moves

4

FERGUS BIA Our Accomplishments

5

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT The Beckett Centre

6

BDC Financing a Business Transaction Painlessly

7

CFIB HELP! Tips in Disaster Planning

general policy Advertising is accepted on the condition that, in the event of typographical error, that portion of the advertising space occupied by the erroneous item, together with a reasonable allowance for the signatures, will not be charged for, but the balance of the advertisements will be paid for at the applicable rate. In the event of a typographical error advertising goods or services at a wrong price, goods or services may not be sold. Advertising is merely an offer to sell, and may be withdrawn at any time. Persons wishing information regarding circulation, rates and additional service are invited to contact our office for further details. The publisher accepts responsibility for claims and honors agreements made by himself or by regular staff on his behalf.

No responsibility is accepted for actions by person(s) not in the employ of the paper, or otherwise over whom the Publisher has no control. All Advertising accepted is done so in good faith. The Publisher maintains the right to approve or reject advertising and articles submitted for publication.

8

FIRE PREVENTION AT BUSINESSES David Meyer

THE CHAMBER PAGES 10

Chamber Q and A’s with Election Candidates

13

Meet the Members Record Tel Inc.

14

On the Web: Small Business - Big Website Chamber Calendar

contact MINDING OUR

BUSINESS

15

CONTACT LISTING BUSINESS DIRECTORY

Box 252, Fergus, Ontario N1M 2W8 519-843-5410 telephone 519-843-7607 facsimile

October 08 | PAGE 3

Fergus BIA

Julia Tyndale-Biscoe

OUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS In October the BIA is bringing a group of qualified individuals together to discuss homelessness and other youth related concerns downtown. Sitting on the panel, is Sgt. P. Horrigan (OPP), Reverend D.Whitecross (St.Andrew’s Presbyterian Church), Denise Muill (Community Resource Centre), Heather Burke (director of housing), Gord Tosh (Wellington County Council), Audrey Morrison (CWDHS), a Youth Representative and Kevin Coghill, Director of The Door. Please join us at Melville United Church for this educational evening as we seek understanding and solutions to this sensitive issue. Call the BIA office for details. 519 787-1384. Space is limited.

No charge. Refreshments.

WE’RE PROUD OF WHAT WE’VE ACCOMPLISHED SO FAR… OCTOBER BIA Question Period “Homelessness in Fergus”

Join

the Food Bank in delivering our service. we require donations year round!

Interested in helping organize a Fund Raising or a Food Drive?

Please call the Food Bank 519-787-1401 The Food Bank accepts fresh produce!

Contact the Food Bank for details.

170 St. Andrew St. E. Fergus | N1M 2W8 519-787-1401 email: cwfoodbank@bellnet.ca

www.cwfoodbank.org

PAGE 4 | October 08

SEPTEMBER BIA Event, 13th Antique & Classic Car Show AUGUST BIA Event - Sidewalk Sale.

JULY BIA Event, Scottish Window Display Competition.

JUNE BIA Event - Art Walk Launched BIA website New BIA banners went up.

MAY BIA Community Exchange to Paris, ON. APRIL BIA AGM, a tribute to Doug Russell & dinner.

BIA Event, 2nd annual Fashion Extravaganza.

MARCH BIA Seminar - “Keys to Success” JANUARY $ 500 Christmas BIA draw.

The BIA strives to encourage patronage of the downtown through advertising – we spent $8,000 in 2007, BIA dollars, Beautification, Events, Seminars and more. The Fergus BIA is represented by Julia Tyndale-Biscoe on the following monthly Township Committees: • • • •

Heritage Centre Wellington Economic Development Community Improvement Plan Parking CW Sub-Committee

The 2008 theme for the BIA Santa Claus Parade is Fergus Past & Present!

Thanks for Thinking Local First!

THE BECKETT CENTRE The Beckett Centre, 820 Gartshore St, was a welcome addition to Centre Wellington and the Fergus Industrial Park.

Paul Maurer developed a location that would give small but growing entrepreneurs an opportunity to move from home based business locations or smaller units to this complex. It also allowed these people to share in the ownership of the facility through a condominium program. This was more advantageous for them than rentals where they do not share in the appreciation of property. The units are all slightly over 1,000 square feet and in some cases have been combined to offer larger units. With the first occupancy in 2007 the facility has already expanded to 26,000 square feet. A few units were purchased for rental purposes and but most are occupied by owners.

The companies located there are; TruView Windows & Doors 519-843-1900 Window and doors

economic DEVELOPMENT

All Star Auto Glass 519-843-3335 Automobile glass Maximum Arrest Force ICS Computers 519-787-4700 Computer sales & service Best BAA Dairy, 519-848-5694 Sheep milk products

Dave Rushton

Some units are available for rent by calling 416-805-6204 and some new units are just being finished now, call Eric Van Grootheest 519-843-5400 for more information.

This type of development is important to our mix of companies in Centre Wellington, giving smaller firms a location to grow their business. The concept is good and I’m sure we will see more complexes in the near future offering even larger units.

LS Plumbing 519-787-0325 Bathroom re-modeling, Plumbing contractors Sterling Promotions 519-787-8187 Display designers & producers Auto Watch 519-787-0034 Automobile alarm systems Jim White Auto Service 519-843-7566 (temporary location) AM Roofing 519-787-0926 Roofing contractors

October 08 | PAGE 5

BDC

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT BANK OF CANADA

FINANCE A BUSINESS TRANSACTION PAINLESSLY Whether you're a vendor or a buyer, the financing can make or break the deal A main challenge in buying or selling a business is that it inevitably involves intangible assets, explains Michel Bergeron, Vice President, Corporate Relations at the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC).

"Although most financial institutions will consider your hard assets such as building, land and equipment, few will leverage the value of intangibles in the deal."

BDC (Business Development Bank of Canada) 519.571.6680 Don Cubbidge don.cubbidge@bdc.ca

Another challenge facing entrepreneurs looking for financing is the current shift from family succession to selling to external buyers. "Factors such as more educated children and a decreasing population mean that businesses often go outside their immediate circles to sell today.�

THE RIGHT DEAL STRUCTURE

MINDING OUR

BUSINESS Sherry Clarke DISPLAY AD SALES

519.843.5410 mob@wellingtonadvertiser.com 905 Gartshore St., Fergus

PAGE 6 | October 08

An additional transition challenge for business owners is finding the right deal structure. "When you're selling your business, you have to ask yourself, how will my buyer pay me off? When you're buying, you need to know how you will pay for your purchase and continue investing and operating your company," Bergeron says.

"Typically, the buyer can expect three sources of financing in a deal: buyer's own investment, the balance of the sale from the seller, also known as a vendor take back, and external financing from a financial institution,� Bergeron explains. "You need to work closely with the financial institution and the vendor to arrive at the best structure. From a vendor's perspective, you may have to partly finance the transaction especially if there's only one buyer involved in order to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of the business. From the buyer's perspective, you

don't want to suffocate your business by just being able to manage your debt. You need available cash flow to fuel your company's growth," he stresses.

BDC, for instance, can provide entrepreneurs a higher percentage of financing on fixed assets to free up working capital for transitional and transactional costs such as human resources planning, management coaching and consulting fees.

THE ADDED ADVANTAGE OF SOUND CONSULTING ADVICE Along with the numbers side of business ownership transition, BDC Consulting can also help you plan your transition, whether you're passing the company on to a family member or selling it to outside interests.

"Our consultants deal with the human side of succession planning, helping you define, develop and implement a plan that ensures the success and ongoing growth of your business," Bergeron says. One of the most important steps is assessing all of the options available for exiting a business.

"The strategy should reflect an entrepreneur's personal and business objectives. Getting an external point of view can help business owners through a complex process that involves dealing with issues such as business valuations, tax implications, family matters, and coaching successors," he concludes.

THE RIGHT FINANCING SOLUTIONS BDC can provide entrepreneurs with solutions that fit their exact needs, whether it's a term loan secured by fixed or intangible assets. Ultimately, your company's future cash flow and overall success will determine the amount or kind of financing that you can receive. "If your company is actively growing but lacks the collateral required by conventional lenders, BDC can offer you excellent alternatives," says Bergeron.

HELP! TIPS IN DISASTER PLANNING Whether it’s a flood, power outage or, as Toronto experienced recently, an explosion in the neighbourhood, business owners need to be ready for events beyond their control. Here are some tips to help you plan for disasters and cope when things go wrong.

WEATHER AND FIRE If a major storm or a flood hits your area, the building that houses your business could be damaged. Also, while you and your staff may be very safety conscious, fire could spread to your building from a neighbouring property.

Make sure you have appropriate insurance coverage, but also try to prevent damage: • Keep up with repairs to your building. If you rent, work with your landlord to keep the building in good condition.

• Avoid keeping company records or inventory in the basement, where it could be damaged by flooding – or a backed-up sewer pipe.

• Consider investing in a generator, even if it’s just to keep the building heated and prevent burst water pipes if you lose power in winter.

• Perform regular back-ups of your computer files.

• Keep your most important documents off-site, for example, at your lawyer’s office. If you have a safe, make sure it’s fireproof.

• Have fire extinguishers in convenient places and have them checked annually.

• Tidy up. Remove clutter that could stop people from leaving quickly in case of an emergency. Unnecessary junk may also help fuel a fire.

• Store any flammable materials according to safety codes and be sure that employees have been trained in safe handling techniques.

CFIB SMALL BUSINESS 101

ILLNESS While we may not think of illness or injury as a “disaster”, having the owner out of commission can be as devastating as having the building burn down: • Prepare a written plan, discuss if with your senior staff, and file it in a safe place. The goal is to have the business operate as normally as possible without you – just like when you go on vacation.

• Designate someone to take over responsibilities such as meeting with clients until you get back.

• Your plan should include giving Power of Attorney to a trusted person who can make legal and financial decisions in your absence. See a lawyer to draw up a Power of Attorney that meets your needs.

• Make sure that you have disability and business overhead insurance and review it yearly.

No matter what disaster has happened, be honest with your customers, suppliers and financial institution. Most will understand and they may be more flexible if they know what your situation is.

CFIB is Canada’s largest association of small- and medium-sized businesses.

Encouraging the development of good public policy at the federal, provincial and municipal levels, CFIB represents more than 105,000 business owners, who collectively employ 1.25 million Canadians and account for $75 billion in GDP.

Are you a student with a great idea for a summer business but need some funding?

The Wellington-Waterloo CFDC has set aside funds for young entrepreneurs that have good business ideas. We are delighted to provide the following services to our community: • Business advice, consulting, information and referrals • Help with business plans • Entrepreneurial training • Information on relevant federal and provincial programs and services • Small business startup loans If you or someone you know is looking for a little guidance, support or just a second opinion give us a call or drop in to visit.

519 846-9839. www.wwcfdc.com

October 08 | PAGE 7

FIRE PREVENTION AT BUSINESSES: EDUCATION - AND ENFORCEMENT - AVAILABLE Imagine walking into a store somewhere on a main street and finding the sales area blocked with boxes and piles of dusty cardboard in aisles, with paint cans sitting in corners, and dirty rags piled up near the counter.That is a scenario that would soon leave most businesses gathering even more dust and dirt because customers would be unlikely to come back.

by David Meyer

So, while retailers and manufacturers usually keep things spotless in the public’s eye, Centre Wellington Fire Prevention Officer Tom Mulvey wonders why back rooms often look as they were described in the first paragraph.

He said in an interview that many business operators have spotless public areas, but are less careful when it comes to their private areas. Mulvey noted that such things are not deliberate, or even meant to happen, but, over the course of time, businesses often let things pile up.

“Accumulation of combustible materials is the biggest problem,” said Mulvey, who does 100 to 150 inspections of business premises each year in Centre Wellington. He has been the full time Fire Prevention Officer for five years. Before that, inspections were done by volunteers.

Firechief Brad Patton(above) Tom Mulvey , Public Safety Office (above right)

PAGE 8 | October 08

Mulvey said boxes are required to be stored away, and not to be left sitting just anywhere. He has walked into the back rooms of some businesses and observed combustibles piled right next to a heating source, which is a recipe for a disastrous fire. “It gets to the point where I’ve seen cardboard that is scorched,” he said of some near misses that were still ignored until he asked the owner to clean things up. He said fire regulations require that set distances be cleared between machinery and combustible materials.

Mulvey’s duties in fire inspection are strictly for businesses, and he is not permitted to arbitrarily enter homes unless the owner invites him for a consultation. Under the regulatory authority of the Ministry of Public Safety and Correctional Services and the Fire Prevention and Protection Act, Mulvey has authority to enter premises for inspections that even police officers do not have. His inspections take between one and oneand-a-half hours, depending on the size of the business, as well as the nature of that business.

Mulvey said “Prevention is always important when you’re looking at anything electrical or mechanical.” He cited fan bearings as a good example. Poor bearings can cause the fan to heat, and that could ignite a blaze.

Fire extinguishers are another concern for Mulvey. They are required, but he noted that many times he finds they are so out of date there is a good chance they might not work. And that is if people can find them. He said many times fire extinguishers are not even visible in businesses; he often sees them used as coat hangers. “And that’s frustrating.”

Another area of concern on Mulvey’s inspections is the exit signs in buildings.

Suppose people are working in a large building and the power suddenly goes out.

With battery operated exit signs operating well, they can usually make their way safely from the building. Now, suppose that a fire caused the electricity to got out - and the exit signs are out, too. Employees would be left in the dark to make their way from the building.

Employers have done other things that Mulvey, in his job, considers a little peculiar.

He regularly sees exits that are not used by the public being blocked by goods, and, in winter, they are often blocked by ice and snow “and not kept clear. That happens quite a bit.”

As well, he noted that many owners place extra security on exits that are not meant for the general public, including using dead bolts, which might keep unauthorized people out, but which could hinder employees leaving, particularly if the exit sign is out and the premises is dark.

Yet another issue Mulvey sees on a regular basis deals with fire safety doors. He noted that many employers will put wedges on them to keep them open, when the reason they exist is to remain closed and to prevent the spread of smoke.

“Most of the time, it’s not the fire that gets you - it’s the smoke,” Mulvey said. “If they [the fire doors] are wedged, they’re not doing their job.”

He noted that a problem he sees with restaurants is the commercial exhaust systems need to be kept clean. He said plastic caps are often covered with grease and “Who knows if they’re going to open or not.”

generally follow them. It is smaller businesses that sometimes are unaware.

“Employers should take the time to discuss fire safety with their employees,” he said.

Mulvey said that while he finds a number of things that concern him in his job, most business operators are willing to cooperate with him.

“Most of the time, people don’t realize,” he said of problems. “When you explain the need, they’re more than happy to cooperate. They don’t do [fire safety violations] to be malicious. They just don’t understand the consequences.”

Mulvey has the authority to hand out tickets, but he prefers to work with people to correct problems.

He noted that in residential cases, where he can go only if invited, there are many people who still do not have fully operational

smoke alarms on each floor of their homes, or outside of each sleeping area. It is law that those alarms be in place, and he can cite instances where they have saved lives.

Mulvey is available for inspections of businesses or homes, and he also offers seminars and training on fire safety to companies.

Anyone wanting to arrange employee training or who has questions can reach Mulvey at 519-843-1950.

There are other regulations that the Fire Prevention Officer must enforce. Any business that uses or has on the premises combustible materials must have up to date Material Safety Data Sheets. That is information on what chemicals, solvents, and combustible materials are in the building, and where they are located. That is the Workplace Hazardous Material Information System, and it allows firefighters to know what to expect and where if they are fighting a fire in a particular building.

Finally, Mulvey said, every employee at every business should be trained in fire safety. He noted that the larger corporations know the rules and

October 08 | PAGE 9

FIRE PREVENTION AT BUSINESSES: EDUCATION - AND ENFORCEMENT - AVAILABLE Imagine walking into a store somewhere on a main street and finding the sales area blocked with boxes and piles of dusty cardboard in aisles, with paint cans sitting in corners, and dirty rags piled up near the counter.That is a scenario that would soon leave most businesses gathering even more dust and dirt because customers would be unlikely to come back.

by David Meyer

So, while retailers and manufacturers usually keep things spotless in the public’s eye, Centre Wellington Fire Prevention Officer Tom Mulvey wonders why back rooms often look as they were described in the first paragraph.

He said in an interview that many business operators have spotless public areas, but are less careful when it comes to their private areas. Mulvey noted that such things are not deliberate, or even meant to happen, but, over the course of time, businesses often let things pile up.

“Accumulation of combustible materials is the biggest problem,” said Mulvey, who does 100 to 150 inspections of business premises each year in Centre Wellington. He has been the full time Fire Prevention Officer for five years. Before that, inspections were done by volunteers.

Firechief Brad Patton(above) Tom Mulvey , Public Safety Office (above right)

PAGE 8 | October 08

Mulvey said boxes are required to be stored away, and not to be left sitting just anywhere. He has walked into the back rooms of some businesses and observed combustibles piled right next to a heating source, which is a recipe for a disastrous fire. “It gets to the point where I’ve seen cardboard that is scorched,” he said of some near misses that were still ignored until he asked the owner to clean things up. He said fire regulations require that set distances be cleared between machinery and combustible materials.

Mulvey’s duties in fire inspection are strictly for businesses, and he is not permitted to arbitrarily enter homes unless the owner invites him for a consultation. Under the regulatory authority of the Ministry of Public Safety and Correctional Services and the Fire Prevention and Protection Act, Mulvey has authority to enter premises for inspections that even police officers do not have. His inspections take between one and oneand-a-half hours, depending on the size of the business, as well as the nature of that business.

Mulvey said “Prevention is always important when you’re looking at anything electrical or mechanical.” He cited fan bearings as a good example. Poor bearings can cause the fan to heat, and that could ignite a blaze.

Fire extinguishers are another concern for Mulvey. They are required, but he noted that many times he finds they are so out of date there is a good chance they might not work. And that is if people can find them. He said many times fire extinguishers are not even visible in businesses; he often sees them used as coat hangers. “And that’s frustrating.”

Another area of concern on Mulvey’s inspections is the exit signs in buildings.

Suppose people are working in a large building and the power suddenly goes out.

With battery operated exit signs operating well, they can usually make their way safely from the building. Now, suppose that a fire caused the electricity to got out - and the exit signs are out, too. Employees would be left in the dark to make their way from the building.

Employers have done other things that Mulvey, in his job, considers a little peculiar.

He regularly sees exits that are not used by the public being blocked by goods, and, in winter, they are often blocked by ice and snow “and not kept clear. That happens quite a bit.”

As well, he noted that many owners place extra security on exits that are not meant for the general public, including using dead bolts, which might keep unauthorized people out, but which could hinder employees leaving, particularly if the exit sign is out and the premises is dark.

Yet another issue Mulvey sees on a regular basis deals with fire safety doors. He noted that many employers will put wedges on them to keep them open, when the reason they exist is to remain closed and to prevent the spread of smoke.

“Most of the time, it’s not the fire that gets you - it’s the smoke,” Mulvey said. “If they [the fire doors] are wedged, they’re not doing their job.”

He noted that a problem he sees with restaurants is the commercial exhaust systems need to be kept clean. He said plastic caps are often covered with grease and “Who knows if they’re going to open or not.”

generally follow them. It is smaller businesses that sometimes are unaware.

“Employers should take the time to discuss fire safety with their employees,” he said.

Mulvey said that while he finds a number of things that concern him in his job, most business operators are willing to cooperate with him.

“Most of the time, people don’t realize,” he said of problems. “When you explain the need, they’re more than happy to cooperate. They don’t do [fire safety violations] to be malicious. They just don’t understand the consequences.”

Mulvey has the authority to hand out tickets, but he prefers to work with people to correct problems.

He noted that in residential cases, where he can go only if invited, there are many people who still do not have fully operational

smoke alarms on each floor of their homes, or outside of each sleeping area. It is law that those alarms be in place, and he can cite instances where they have saved lives.

Mulvey is available for inspections of businesses or homes, and he also offers seminars and training on fire safety to companies.

Anyone wanting to arrange employee training or who has questions can reach Mulvey at 519-843-1950.

There are other regulations that the Fire Prevention Officer must enforce. Any business that uses or has on the premises combustible materials must have up to date Material Safety Data Sheets. That is information on what chemicals, solvents, and combustible materials are in the building, and where they are located. That is the Workplace Hazardous Material Information System, and it allows firefighters to know what to expect and where if they are fighting a fire in a particular building.

Finally, Mulvey said, every employee at every business should be trained in fire safety. He noted that the larger corporations know the rules and

October 08 | PAGE 9

the chamber OF COMMERCE QUESTIONS & ANSWERS On September 19, 2008 The Chamber of Commerce sent the following Email to: Brent Bouteiller – Green Party Bruce Bowser – Liberal Party of Canada Michael Chong –Conservative Party Noel Duignan – NDP Jeffrey Streutker – Christian Heritage “The Centre Wellington Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors requests the favour of a written response to the following questions by Wednesday, September 24th, 2008 at 5:00 PM. We request that you limit your response to 60 words per question. Responses should be sent by email to rscarrow@cwchamber.ca All responses will be published on our website and in our various newsletters, The Business BLINK and Minding Our Business – pending publishing deadlines. If no response is received from a candidate, that will be noted and published as well.

The Ontario and Canadian Chambers of Commerce developed these questions.”

Please note, no reply was recieved for Minding Our Business by press deadline from Michael Chong of the Conservative Party or Noel Duignan of the NDP.

Q

If elected, what will you do to bring fiscal fairness to Ontario?

Jeffrey Strueker, Christian Heritage Party The CHP proposes (and if elected I will support in Parliament) replacing the complex Income Tax which has become a tool for social engineering and income redistribution, rather than financing government services with a Fair Tax: a national consumer’s tax on discretionary purchases, with exemptions on necessities and rebates to relieve low-income families. It is axiomatic that we will get less of what we tax and more of what we subsidize; therefore taxing income discourages wealth production; taxing discretionary consumption instead will encourage saving and investment, which will

PAGE 10 | October 08

increase prosperity overall.

Bruce Bowser Campaign, Liberal, Wellington-Halton Hills First and foremost a Liberal government will stop the Ontario-bashing that has become the hallmark of the Harper cabinet. By endorsing Finance Minister Jim Flaherty’s repeated claims that Ontario is the last place in Canada anyone should invest, Prime Minster Harper has done untold damage to the Canadian economy.

A new liberal government is committed to helping Ontario build a strong economy. A strong Ontario economy benefits all of our communities including Wellington - Halton Hills.

That's why we announced a $1 billion Advanced Manufacturing Prosperity Fund to help Canadian manufacturers take advantage of the green economy and create and protect jobs. We will also make research and development credits more generous to businesses.

If elected, I would proudly stand up for Ontario, promote Ontario and fight for this province's fair share of federal funding.

Brent Bouteiller, Green Party We need to determine the needs of each of the provinces (and municipalities) over a 10 to 20 year span and provide a new funding arrangement that is fair and inclusive.

Q

The 2007 Federal Budget committed to treating Ontario fairly with regards to the Canada Health Transfer (CHT) but the fairness will not be introduced until 2014. If elected, would you support placing the CHT on an equal per-capita basis immediately?

Jeffrey Strueker, Christian Heritage Party

Yes. Bruce Bowser Campaign, Liberal, Wellington-Halton Hills In 2004, this Liberal government pledged $41.3 billion dollars to strengthen public health care and cut wait times for key medical procedures. By doing so, we took the most aggressive approach to protecting and enhancing public health care since the passage of the Canada Health Act.

Since signing the Ten-Year Plan, this Liberal Government has announced additional investments to reduce wait times, improve the health of Aboriginal peoples, integrate internationally educated doctors and nurses into the health care system, and improve data collection and reporting on health system performance.

As part of the Ten-Year Plan, funding to the provinces for health care will increase by six percent annually. This provision of long-term predictable funding will provide provinces with the support they need to tackle the challenges facing our health care system.

Brent Bouteiller, Green Party Yes. This could be done better in a phased process over the next 6 years. 1/6 each year.

Q

The Employment Insurance program is unfair to Ontarians.

Last year only 30 per cent of unemployed persons qualified to receive benefits compared to 58 per cent in other provinces. Considering the many laid-off workers in manufacturing and other sectors, the EI program fails to meet the needs of unemployed workers in Ontario. What will you do to ensure that unemployed Canadians living in Ontario are treated the same as Canadians living in other provinces?

Jeffrey Strueker, Christian Heritage Party

Yes. Bruce Bowser Campaign, Liberal, Wellington-Halton Hills Although Ontario has been hard hit by job losses in the manufacturing sector, the fact is that the rules for Employment Insurance are the same across the country. EI payment rates, and qualifications are the same across the country. A person’s entitlement to EI depends on the number of hours he/she worked before becoming unemployed, their salary when they were working, and the rate of unemployment in the region where they live. Although Ontario’s unemployment has been rising, the fact is that it is still significantly lower than many other parts of the country, and as such EI benefits may appear to be lower.

Brent Bouteiller, Green Party Provide more retraining education.

Canadian governments have erected barriers to trade between provinces that continue to impede Canada’s economic efficiency, reduce productivity, and often prevent workers from using their skills in other regions. Many of our competitors, e.g., the European Union, have already removed internal trade barriers. Will your party make a priority of taking specific measures to work with the provinces and territories to eliminate all internal trade barriers that impede the free flow of goods, services and people by 2010?

Q

Jeffrey Strueker, Christian Heritage Party Emphatically YES! This is a policy the CHP has advocated since our first federal election in 1988!

Bruce Bowser Campaign, Liberal, Wellington-Halton Hills The short answer is a resounding yes. Canada is in a fierce global competition for the best and the brightest people, skills and innovation.

Canada can succeed only if all governments work together to make our country as strong and competitive as it can be. Canada's provinces and territories must work together to compete with the world.

A new Liberal government will provide the necessary leadership to bring the provinces and territories together to eliminate trade barriers and make Canada a much stronger global competitor.

Brent Bouteiller, Green Party Yes, with the exception of the Carbon Tax. Canada’s energy strategy must support a competitive business environment, strengthen our market-based approach to energy, and reflect the needs of energy producers and consumers. Decisions about use, specific product choices and resource development are best made through market forces. It is vitally important to ensure a stable, diverse and flexible energy supply which includes environmentally-sound, cost-efficient uses of all available economic energy sources, including but not limited to nuclear, wind, solar, biomass, hydro, coal,

Q

shale, and natural gas, and expanded development of the oil sands. Will your party promote a market-based approach to energy policy?

Jeffrey Strueker, Christian Heritage Party Yes. This is already in our platform (see www.chp.ca) Bruce Bowser Campaign, Liberal, Wellington-Halton Hills The Liberal Party is firmly committed to expanding Canada’s renewable energy generation to 12,000MW (10 percent of Canada’s electricity needs) by the fourth year of our mandate. We believe that by re-introducing programs similar to the Wind Power Production Incentive, and the Renewable Power Production Incentive, we can achieve this goal. This is not at all dissimilar to Liberal policies in the 70s and 80s which promoted the development of technologies that have made oil extraction in northern Alberta both possible and highly profitable. We believe that the climate change crisis demands that the government of Canada help develop alternative energy sources that will help supply Canada’s power needs without doing significant damage to the environment.

Moreover, the expansion of energy projects in Canada must be done in an environmentally sensitive way. But subject to that one restriction, we support the expansion of Canada’s energy industries.

Brent Bouteiller, Green Party Yes. Green Party MPs will: • Institute a full range of “polluter pays” taxes, including a carbon tax designed to reduce the use of fossil fuels by making them more expensive to produce and burn.

• Eliminate most corporate subsidies (in particular for oil and gas exploration) and institute new taxes on corporate activities that harm the environment.

• Refundable tax credits for all energy retrofit costs, based on before-and-after Energuide or infrared heat tests for residential, commercial, industrial and institutional buildings; • Tax-deductible Green Mortgages for home-owner energy retrofit costs.

Q

Immigration has always been an important source of net labour force growth. As our population ages, it will be

needed even more. We need an efficient immigration system that gives Canada a competitive edge to attract and retain the people and skills our economy requires. We must continue to simplify and expedite the processing of immigration applications and help immigrants put their skills to work. Will your party review and streamline current processes to ensure that applications are processed within six to 12 months, starting with economic and business applicants? Will your party work with the provinces and territories to develop national accreditation standards to evaluate foreign credentials, professional and trade qualifications, and certification in regulated and non-regulated occupations?

Jeffrey Strueker, Christian Heritage Party The answer is yes if the list is expanded to include economic, business, and medical professional applicants.

Bruce Bowser Campaign, Liberal, Wellington-Halton Hills Immigration will account for all of Canada's net labour and population growth within the next five years so it's essential that we make sure Canada has the skilled labour force it needs to compete and succeed globally.

A new Liberal government is committed to investing $800 million to improve and streamline the immigration system and ease the backlog. A new Liberal government would restore fairness by revamping the immigration points system to give greater weight to skilled trades and better align Canada's immigration policy with the needs of our labour market.

In full partnership with provinces, fully respecting agreements such as the one with Quebec, over four years, we will invest: $400 million to modernize the immigration system, process applications more efficiently and support the admission of significantly more permanent residents to Canada. $200 million in New Beginnings Canada – an enhanced language training initiative designed to help newcomers master the language necessary to get jobs that match their qualifications; And an additional $200 million for Bridge to Work – a new initiative that will better prepare newcomers for the workplace through the use

October 08 | PAGE 11

of internships, mentorship and work placement opportunities. And we will help get foreign credentials recognized, by providing direct financial support to assist foreign-trained doctors and other professionals in obtaining their Canadian qualifications.

Brent Bouteiller, Green Party Green Party MPs will: • Press professional societies to remove unnecessary barriers recognizing the professional credentials of immigrants.

• Ensure such professionals being considered for immigration will have the licensing requirements for their profession clearly explained before entry. Landed immigrants with professional qualifications will be supported and given the opportunity to obtain Canadian licenses consistent with public safety.

• Allocate much greater funding for training in official languages – ESL and FSL for new immigrants through earmarked transfers to the province for primary, secondary public school and free night school programs.

• Establish a program to deal with the estimated 200,000 people living in Canada without official status that leads to full landed immigrant status for those who have become contributing members of Canadian society.

Q

Canada’s transportation sector is essential to trade competitiveness. With supply chains becoming more global and competitive pressures intensifying, Canada’s transportation network must operate as efficiently as possible.

Canada lacks a comprehensive, federal multi-modal transportation strategy. At the same time, our competitors are investing billions of dollars in transportation infrastructure. If we further delay, we will miss new opportunities, put our businesses at risk, and be pushed to the fringe for access to global supply chains and trade. Will your party develop and implement an objective-based National Transportation Strategy?

Jeffrey Strueker, Christian Heritage Party We already have. The CHP’s Infrastructure Program will renew and modernize Canada’s crumbling infrastructure without raising taxes or increasing the national debt. It is a proven

PAGE 12 | October 08

plan that has already worked for Canada: in 1945, when the federal government was concerned that two million returning soldiers might cause unemployment that would trigger a new Depression, C.D. Howe ordered the Bank of Canada to make loans, virtually interest-free, to provinces, municipalities, regional districts and other local authorities for infrastructure projects. Most of the Trans-Canada Highway was built with such loans; the PGE (now BCR) railway in BC was build with such loans.

Because they were interest-free, they did not compound debt. Because they improved access to resources and markets, and because they created well-paying jobs, the resulting economic activity touched off the biggest and longestlasting boom in Canada’s history. And that economic activity generated revenues for the local authorities that enabled them to quickly repay the loans; and when they were repaid, the BoC wiped out the money that had been created, so that the impact was not inflationary.

The plan has the added advantage that infrastructure decisions can be made by local authorities, who know better than Ottawa what infrastructure is needed, and speed up the process of getting the money to them.

Bruce Bowser Campaign, Liberal, Wellington-Halton Hills A national transportation strategy is essential in making sure that all modes of transportation across all of our towns, cities and provinces in Canada connect, compliment one another and are properly funded. Long term sustainable funding, and long term planning is crucial for Canada's transportation network if we are going to compete and succeed as a country.

Gridlock is costly. It takes away our family time and drives up the cost of transporting goods.

That's why a new Liberal government will start by aggressively investing over $70 billion in Canada's infrastructure over the next 10 years in roads, bridges, sewer and transit systems.

As president of a national company involved in transportation, I understand and appreciate the importance of a transportation system that works for Canada.

Transit is also an important part of an efficient transport system. I am a strong supporter of expanding GO train service to Acton, Guelph and Kitchener.This $70 billion dollar investment will help to make it happen.

Brent Bouteiller, Green Party The Green Party will re-establish Canada’s National Dream and:

* Re-invest in our national rail systems, building more train cars in Canada, and create green transportation and energy infrastructure corridors in key regions. * Improve rail infrastructure and intermodal connections, increasing joint federal-municipal light rail investments, as well as improving VIA rail service nationwide. * Work with railway companies to improve rail infrastructure and to restore VIA rail service to all major regional cities. * Create a national clean freight initiative, using both regulation and financial incentives to improve fleet efficiency and safety. * Support the trucking industry, reducing pollution through add-on generators to avoid the need to idle to maintain air conditioning and refrigeration, while ensuring the right fit of trucking in a more efficient, rail-based intermodal system.

Tuesday, October 14th Federal Government Election Day you are encouraged to exercise your right to choose the next government of Canada.

MEET THE MEMBERS RECORD TEL INC. Record Tel Inc. is still known to many as Record Telephone Services, the name this company had for 12 years until Pat and Adrian Record incorporated their business and changed the name last year. The company has been growing steadily since it started in 1995 and currently employs five highly skilled, local technicians. Keeping the technicians busy while anticipating emergency calls can be challenging at times, but being in charge of their own business is making it all worthwhile for Adrian and Pat. Starting a business is relatively easy, but to properly manage it and make it grow is more difficult than many think. The key to success according to the Records: “Make a good business plan, and stick to it!”

What is it that Record Tel Inc. does? Well, you probably would not contact them to get a phone jack repaired. Their clientele consists mainly of larger institutions like the Upper Grand District School Board and Groves Memorial Hospital, for whom they repair or upgrade whole telephone systems. Record Tel Inc. specializes in telecommunications systems: the installation of new copper or fiber wiring, new communications systems, maintenance and repair, training of their clients’ system administrators and providing support. A typical day may include working on the telecommunications infrastructure for a four person insurance broker’s office, a small factory, a larger factory and a car dealership.

In this industry changes come quickly and have a profound effect. Gone are the days where receptionists manned the switchboards. Computerized systems can now link remote offices, making many of their jobs redundant. The impact of the Internet has also been immense, with Voice Over IP (VOIP; Internet telephony) as the latest and “greatest” at this moment. A lot of Record Tel Inc.’s sales are feature-driven: when new functionalities become available the existing infrastructure needs to be

changed. Upgrading does not come cheap, but the benefits in increased efficiency and effectiveness usually outweigh the expenses.

Recently the company reached a new milestone by becoming an authorized Nortel dealer. This accreditation is not easy to obtain but very important, since institutions like School Boards or the RCMP are only allowed to buy from authorized dealers.

Apart from working in their own company, Adrian enjoys playing bridge and golf (“the Chamber’s Golf tournament is always a cool thing to go to”), and Pat teaches parttime. Working with developmentally challenged adults is very rewarding for her.

This husband and wife team is working remarkably well together. They both have distinctly different responsibilities within the company, and it helps that they do not work in the same office all the time. Since leisure time is very important to the Records, during the summertime they try to make it a point to close up shop at noon on Friday so they can leave for the cottage or play a round of golf.

scoundrels are members of the Chamber!”

This virtual quality stamp is still one of the reasons why they are a member, as “it says more about your company if you are not a member of the Chamber, than if you are…”

The affordability of the Centre Wellington Chamber’s events is appreciated, as many surrounding Chambers charge a lot more.

Pat and Adrian still attend many Chamber networking events, and they enjoy the benefits of the Chamber’s Group Insurance.

If you want to know more about becoming a Centre Wellington Chamber of Commerce member you can contact General Manager Roberta Scarrow at 519843-5140. For more information about Record Tel Inc. you can call Pat Record at 519-843-6340.

Nardo Kuitert nardo@ucwebs.com

When they emigrated from the UK Adrian and Pat ended up in Fergus because of its size and facilities, and its proximity to the Golden Triangle. The Records have been part of the local community for 20 years and they supported many local organizations like the F.E.D.S. soccer club, Kinsmen Club or the Scottish Festival with their time and sponsorships.

“Centre Wellington is a wonderful place to live and raise your children,” says Adrian.

A Chamber membership was as much of a no-brainer as registering for GST and PST. Joining the local Chamber of Commerce was important to Adrian and Pat, who recall: “I thought: no

October 08 | PAGE 13

Chamber Calendar of Events

ON THE WEB

October 2-13, 2008 Time to celebrate the senses at Sensational Elora – enjoy all the senses - sight, smell, taste, touch and hearing! www.sensationalelora.com

as being trustworthy, and obvious and effortless in its navigation, you can beat larger corporations!

Sunday, October 5th 2-4 pm Thomson Funeral Home Open House and Ribbon Cutting ceremony at 2:15 pm. Welcome Lindsey Gray and Adam Kelly as the new owners of this Fergus business.

12-4 Harvest Home is happening at Wellington County Museum.

Monday, October 6th Election ’08 – 2008 Public Debates at the CW Sportsplex – Fergus.

Sponsored by Guelph Mercury, Rogers TV and Magic 106.1. Be an informed voter - come out to hear what the local candidates have to say to questions posed by media as well as the audience.

Wednesday, October 22nd Our first, in a long time anyhow, Table Top Trade Show. For vendors – the table cost is $35 for Members and $55 for Future Members. This open to the public and the admission is FREE! Come out to see what is available in Centre Wellington!

Wednesday, October 29th Networking Breakfast at The Elora Mill Inn – 7:30 to 9:00 AM. This is Small Business Month and we will be hearing from 3 local business people. Cost is $15 for Members and $20 for Future Members.

Sunday, November 2nd Wine Tour – the details are being worked out. The plan is to board a comfortable coach bus in Fergus (with a pick up in Guelph), then head to the Niagara area and have a break where you can shop or have lunch (own expense) Then visit 3 wineries. Have dinner (included) and return to Guelph and Fergus. Price is still being finalized, but will be no more than $85/person.

Book now as this is sure to be a fun day - plus you can do some Christmas shopping.

For more information or to reserve your spot at any of these events, please call 519-843-5140 or email chamber@cwchamber.ca

PAGE 14 | October 08

NARDO KUITERT nardo@ ucwebs.com.

Being a small business also allows you to be more to the point and personable, for instance by adding a blog to your website. It usually is also a good strategy to add testimonials, case studies, white papers or articles written by you, the expert. These samples of your products and services, or your customer service, will evoke a lot of trust and give a visitor insight into what they can expect from you as a service or product provider.

Being honest and true will resonate with your website’s visitors, which can be a great start for building customer loyalty.

Small Business – Big Impact.

SMALL BUSINESS – BIG WEBSITE October is Small Business Month. Small Business is usually defined as a company with a small number of employees, but that does not mean that its impact or income has to be small. And websites can help a lot to make a real splash.

Websites allow small businesses to play with the big guys. As a sole proprietor you can start your own webshop, and you do not have to worry about renting a store or hiring staff. You can get people to your online store by making sure it is easy to find in the search engines, and you can add many other online and offline promotion activities to the mix.

You can grow your small website into a big website without having to add much to your expenses. Small Business – Big Website.

You can also have a small website with a Big Impact. A website allows you to effectively market your invention or niche product in a niche market, making you an expert or “guru” in your field.

Again, if your website is easy to find and also easy to use, targeted visitors will find your website and your site will convert many of these browsers into customers. If your website is perceived

Using the powers of the Internet you can turn being a “Small Business” into your advantage. So join me in celebrating all our (future) Big-Impact Small Businesses this month!

Nardo Kuitert

CONTACT LISTING Ministry of Labour www.employeradviser.ca WCB - 1.800.387.0774 Employment Standards 1.800.531.5551

Waterloo-Wellington M.P.P. 519.787.5247 Ted Arnott ted.arnottco@pc.ola.org

Ontario Government www.gov.on.ca

Wellington - Halton Hills M.P. 519.843.7344 1-866-878-5556 Michael Chong chong.m@parl.gc.ca

Revenue Canada www.cra-arc.gc.ca Service Canada www.servicecanada.gc.ca

Fergus BIA 519-787-1384 Julia Tyndale-Biscoe info@fergusbia.ca WW Community Futures 519.846.9839 Rick Whittaker rick@wwcfdc.com Centre Wellington Economic Development 519.846.0974 Dave Rushton drushton@centrewellington.ca

The Centre Wellington Chamber of Commerce Phone: 519.843.5140 E-mail: chamber@cwchamber.ca

Township of Centre Wellington 519.846.9691 www.centrewellington.ca

BDC (Business Development Bank of Canada) 519.571.6680 Don Cubbidge don.cubbidge@bdc.ca

WCB 1.800.387.0774 www.employeradviser.ca

Minding Our Business The Wellington Advertiser Box 252, Fergus, Ontario N1M 2W8 519-843-5410 telephone 519-843-7607 facsimile mob@wellingtonadvertiser.com

Elora BIA 519.846.2563 Esther Farrell elorabia@execulink.com

BUSINESS CARD DIRECTORY Business Card Etiquette ... In Japan business cards are always received with both hands but given with only one ...

In China when offering a business card hold it with both hands ... In India always use the right hand to give and receive cards.

162 St. Andrew St. E. Fergus, ON M1N 1P8

Total Computing Solutions

Debbie Kurt Sales Representative

ON-SITE SERVICE • NETWORKING • OFF-SITE BACKUP WORKSTATIONS • SERVERS • WEBSITE HOSTING www.icscomputers.ca

Call 787-4700 (519)

820 Gartshore Street, Unit 5, Fergus

519-843-5400 Cell: 519-766-6384 Toll Free: 1-866-343-6825 debbiekurt@royallepage.ca www.debbiekurt.com

October 08 | PAGE 15

Feel the excitement even before you get here.

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