In Touch - March 2021

MARCH 2021

WITH BRANTFORD • BRANT

Chamber of Commerce Brantford • Brant

BELL COMMUNITY BUILDER AWARD

ENTERPRISE BRANT ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR AWARD

WATEROUS HOLDEN AMEY HITCHON COMPANY OF THE YEAR AWARD

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2021 BUSINESS EXCELLENCE FINALISTS PRESENTING PARTNER: BDO — SEE PAGE 12

January 2021

519.759.0087

Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com

PRESIDENT

Ken McNaughton

McNaughton Agency Inc. The Cooperators

WITH BRANTFORD • BRANT

JANUARY 2021

1ST VICE PRESIDENT

Paul Bisanti

Lanca Contracting Ltd. 2ND VICE PRESIDENT

Chris Rayfield

Methapharm Inc./ ACIC Pharmaceuticals Inc.

Golf Tournament

TREASURER

Wednesday June 2nd, 2021 Find all the details!

Jacinda Reitsma Conestoga College PAST PRESIDENT

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Paul McCaig

Paulsan Construction DIRECTORS

Angela Adam

Meridian Credit Union

Garnett Lasby

Massilly North America Inc.

Ask a Lawyer

Our 2021 Business Excellence Finalists

Your business is valuable.

Protecting it is, too.

Waterous Holden Amey Hitchon LLP

Joy O’Donnell

Grand Financial Planning

11

Trevor Rumble

The Marco Corporation

Eddy Vance

Waterous Holden Amey Hitchon LLP

Sandra Vos

Brant County Federation of Agriculture

Mike Yarek

Chamber AGM and Presidents Event

12 Financial Feature RRSP or TFSA? That is the question...

Tuesday March 30th, 2021 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.

First Ontario Credit Union

Mike Yarek Dodge Chrysler Ltd. SECRETARY TO THE BOARD CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

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David Prang

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LIAISONS

Dan McCreary

is published six times a year by the Chamber of Commerce Brantford • Brant

City of Brantford (Ex-Officio)

Marc LaFerriere

County of Brant (Ex-Officio)

Michelle Giffin JCI Brantford

David Prang Managing Editor

Leslie Barker Advertising & Distribution

Greg Evans Advertising

Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com

77 Charlotte Street, Brantford, ON N3T 2W8 Phone: 519-753-2617 • Fax: 519-753-0921 www.brantfordbrantchamber.com Mandate: To be the voice of business that promotes economic growth and prosperity in our community.

Publication Agreement # 4076850

January 2021

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Message from the CEO

David Prang – CEO As we wrap up the first quarter of 2021 we are also closing the books on a year of managing our business through Covid 19. For everyone, it has been a year of challenges and change.

Businesses have been forced to adapt. They have retooled their distribution models, they have adjusted their staffing and of course changed their financial forecasts a hundred times or more. We have had no choice but to learn and embrace new technologies such as voip, Zoom, Teams, Webex or a host of other conferencing platforms in an effort to stay connected to our team members and our clients.

Your Chamber of Commerce is no different.

We are working to enhance our video conferencing abilities and are making changes to our member offerings with the goal of increasing value for our members. Some programs will be eliminated as they no longer fit, while others are seeing changes, and of course new ones are being added to the program calendar. You can look forward to seeing more frequent, but smaller meetings tailored to specific industries in addition to some of your favourites.

This first quarter the Chamber in partnership and consultation with MPP Will Bouma, hosted two meetings.

Associate Minister of Small Business & Red Tape Reduction the Hon. Prabmeet Sakaria in a round table discussion with several members in the food services industry to talk about the impacts of relaxing the rules around home-based food service businesses Parliamentary Assistant to the President of the Treasury Board, Rudy Cuzetto, for a prebudget consultation, joined by several small businesses and associations.

We hope to be hosting several more of these round tables over the coming months as they give our members direct access to the policy makers. Watch our website and weekly eblasts for upcoming announcements.

Business After Hours events have been paused during the pandemic but one of our signature events; the Business Excellence Awards have moved online and continue virtually. The finalists were announced on February 2nd and winners will be announced at our gala event on Thursday, May 20th, proudly presented by BDO Canada . Be sure to get your tickets for the online ceremony from the Chamber website.

Remember, we are here to help you and your business. The vaccines continue to roll out across the country and business confidence levels are on the rise.

While this year will be different again, our region is prepared and well positioned for growth with a strong business community and dedicated, effective elected officials to continue to improve the quality of life in Brantford-Brant.

Partners: M.J. Dixon, CPA, CA • T. J Leyzer, CPA, CA • R.D. Sciannella CPA, CA, CBV • H.C. Johnston CPA, CA • S.E. Goodwin, CPA, CA • T.B. Sinclair, CPA, CA • D.A. Cleary, CPA, CGA, CFI • S.D. Klein, CPA, CA • G.S. Gravett, CPA, CA • S.A. Salole, CPA, CA • J.B. Baetz, CPA, CA • R.W. Storoschuk, CPA, CA • S.W. McGaghran, CPA, CA • J.E. Chowhan, CPA, CA • P.E. Merrylees, CPA, CA • J.A. Laporte, CPA, CA • R.A. Parker, CPA, CGA, CFI • G.M. Malecki, CPA, CA Associates: B.Y. Brenneman, CPA, CA • C.J. Storoschuk, CPA, CA • K.B. Weames, CPA, CA • W.A. Deane, CPA, CA • D.E. Paxton, CPA, CA • Q.E. Bateson-Hotte, CPA, CA, LPA

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January 2021

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Brantford’s Employment Recovering Despite COVID 19 Setbacks The pandemic has drastically impacted the local economy and unemployment rates. Youth unemployment in particular has been negatively affected. I have spoken to many students that were not able to secure summer jobs or part time jobs that would normally have been available.

According to data provided by the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie, Brantford youth unemployment was the hardest hit by the pandemic. The age group of 15 to 24 year-olds saw unemployment peak at 26.5% in June of 2020, when the unemployment rate for this age group in June of 2019 was 13%. The unemployment rate for the core working age group (ages 25-54) also peaked in June of 2020, but only at 9.2%, relatively low in comparison to the youth unemployment figures. These figures rebounded well over the summer and prior to the most recent lockdown and youth employment has increased the most steadily.

With new lockdown restrictions enacted in January, is it anticipated that youth unemployment will reach the peak of June or new highs?

Not necessarily, suggests Wynona Mendes, Labour Market Analyst with the Workforce Planning Board of Grand Erie who has confirmed

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that “based on current labour force trends, we don’t anticipate that the second lockdown will impact unemployment as significantly.

Most businesses that are able to stay open have adapted their workplaces to ensure that they can continue to operate while maintaining physical distancing between employees.” However, Mendes cautions, any forecasts are obviously subject to changes in case numbers, virus severity, consumer behaviour and other factors.

While there has been a recovery, Mendes further cautions that “we are anticipating that this growth will slow down in the months to come, and many forecasts indicate that the tourism industry (which employs a significant portion of youth/part-time workers) could take years to recover, and may see some more job losses in the months to come.”

While the full impact of this ongoing pandemic will not be known fully for some time, and the new restrictions will present setbacks, Brantford appears poised to recover well, if not fully.

By Owen Portelli

January 2021

5

Membership Corner Greg Evans

Retaining and growing your customer base is, of course, extremely important – but growing this into something more is how you can make your business thrive, not just stay alive. Turn them into your partners, fans, and friends.

Customers buy from you, but fans won’t hesitate to recommend you and advocate for your business – and that doesn’t cost you a dime.

“The best marketing in the world is word of mouth.”

We’ve all heard this one – in every marketing book, in every list of marketing tips online, and in every advertising seminar we’ve ever attended.

Having a wife who works in marketing makes for an interesting household – while I tend to obsess over the short-term dollars and cents when it comes to how the Chamber promotes its members and how our marketing campaigns can benefit our membership, my wife obsesses over the more abstract and long-term concepts.

It pains me to say it, but I’ve seen the light – she’s thinking about things the right way.

This concept works regardless of the industry – whether you’re a manufacturer, a chocolate shop, a restaurant, a financial advisor – fans are customers and partners that have evolved to the next level and help to do your marketing for you.

Consider taking a moment to think of ways you can provide something a little extra to your regular customers to encourage them to become fans and advocates of your brand .

Please take some time to read through this year’s Membership Directory and familiarize yourself with your fellow Chamber members – when we support local and become fans of each other, everybody wins. greg@brcc.ca (519) 753-2617 Ext. 22

DECEMBER 2019

WITH B

• BRANT RANTFORD

Commerce Chamber of • Brant Brantford

WITH BRANTFORD • BRANT

Chamber welcomes

incoming President Paul McCaig Details on

page 5

SO...

ATTENTION

ADVERTISERS! grow your fan base...

The deadline for the May 2021 edition of InTouch is

April 15 2021

BOOK YOUR AD TODAY! Contact Greg at 519-753-2617 or email: greg@brcc.ca

Membership Renewals

Renewals occur on the anniversary of the date a member joined. The following represents those renewals that have occurred since the previous issue of In Touch.

■ Advanced Cellular/Bell World/Bell Mobility ■ Advantage Insurance ■ Al’s Driveway Sealing & Repairs ■ Apogee Ceramics Inc. ■ ASCO Numatics ■ Assante Capital Management Ltd./Brant Financial Group ■ Assess4theBest ■ BDO Canada LLP ■ Beatties Business Products ■ Bell ■ Bell City Carpet One ■ Best Little Tire House in Town ■ Bialas Printing Limited ■ BML Multi Trades Group Ltd. ■ Boddy Ryerson LLP ■ Booster Juice ■ Bowman Precision Tooling ■ Braneida Mechanical Service Ltd. ■ Brant Custom Machining Ltd. ■ Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic District

School Board ■ Brant Mutual Insurance Company ■ Brantford Blooms Florist Inc. ■ Brantford Flight Centre ■ Brantford Honda ■ Brantford Musicians Association ■ Bunnell Hitchon Insurance Brokers Inc. ■ Casasanta Complete Baking Solutions ■ Christmas Spirit ■ City of Brantford - Economic Development & Tourism ■ College Source for Sports ■ Comfort Inn ■ Community Living Brant ■ completewaters ■ Co-operators @ Norbruis & Associates ■ Cornell Construction Limited ■ County of Brant ■ Cowell Home Health Care - Division of Cowell Pharmacy Ltd. ■ Da Vinci Hair Design & Skin Clinic

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January 2021

Chamber of Commerce Brantford • Brant

■ Derek Bond Entertainment ■ Domclean Limited / Dominion Equipment & Chemical ■ Dominion Lending Forest City Funding ■ Dr. Betty-Anne Story ■ Dulux Paints ■ E & M Copper Products Inc. ■ Elements Casino Brantford ■ Enterprise Brant ■ ESSE Canada ■ Execulink Telecom Inc. ■ Extend Communications Inc. ■ Farm Boy Company Inc. ■ Curtiss Wright Flow Control Corporation, Farris Engineering ■ Financial Navigators ■ Gates Canada Inc. ■ General Industrial Services ■ George and Edmison Partners ■ Gilbert-McEachern Electric Ltd. ■ Gordon’s Logowear

Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com

Welcome to Our New Members ■ Angela Leach – Happy Workplace Architect Business Consultants Angela Leach 457 Third Concession Rd. RR3, Princeton, ON N0J 1V0 519-994-0551 buildloyalty@angelaleach.ca

■ Long Investments Inc. Lawn Maintenance Paul Long 36 Robinson Rd. Brantford, ON N3T 5L7 519-758-6406 lonvinvinc@sympatico.ca

■ B ucket Sign & Lighting Service Signs Wes Eggink 9-27 Copernicus Blvd.

Brantford, ON N3P 1N4 905-577-7446 wes@bucketsignservice.ca

■ New Life Pentecostal Assembly Churches Judy Tozer 85 Clench Ave. Brantford, ON N3T 1C1 519-752-7158 jtozer@nlpa.ca

■ Hale Packaging Solutions Packaging Materials Andy Hale 60 Roy Blvd.

Brantford, ON N3R 7K2 905-527-9226 ahale@halfpkg.com

■ SHJ Source PPE – Masks / Face Shields / Gloves Sherly Jamin 416-804-4660 shjsource@outlook.com

■ University of Waterloo – Co-operative Education & Career Action Schools – Academic – Colleges & Universities Margaret Johnston 200 University Ave. W Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1 885-533-4473 ext 41816 marg.johnston@uwaterloo.ca

Business After Hours Book your spot for 2021 Contact: leslie@brcc.ca Business After Hours is held the second Tuesday of each month, and is a great opportunity for Chamber members to network. For more information on hosting a Business After Hours, contact Leslie Barker at: leslie@brcc.ca.

Membership Renewals Continued ■ Grandview Flour and Feed Company ■ Hematite Manufacturing ■ Hewson Brothers Building Supply Inc. ■ J. D. Hill Jewellers Brantford Ltd. ■ Home Hardware, Paint and Home Products Division ■ Home2 Suites by Hilton Brantford ■ Horseshoe Tax & Bookkeeping Services ■ Hotline Apparel Systems ■ HUB International Ontario Limited ■ Ingham Monuments ■ InvestorCOM Inc. ■ Investors Group Financial Services Inc. ■ Jayridge Builders Inc. ■ Kemira Water Solutions Canada Inc. ■ Ken’s Cabinets o/b 603085 Ontario Ltd. ■ Kuriyama Canada Inc. ■ R. L. Lancaster Construction Limited ■ Liftway Limited ■ LJS & Associates Consulting Inc. ■ M&T Printing Group ■ Mark’s Work Wearhouse ■ McClelland Glass Centre (002310921 Ontario Ltd) ■ Meridian

Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com

■ Millards Chartered Professional Accountants ■ Millennium Security Services ■ Colleen E. Miller Enterprises ■ MMMC Architects ■ Nova Cleaning Supplies ■ Our Kitchen/The Jelly Girls ■ Paulmac’s Pets Brantford ■ Pauwels Travel Bureau ■ Pencar Sales Rental Leasing ■ RBC Commercial Banking Centre ■ RBL Services ■ Rick Sopko Chartered Accountant ■ Robertson Restoration ■ Savory Electric Ltd. ■ Scott C. Chapin CPA Professional Corporation ■ Seasons Brantford Retirement Community ■ Sharp Bus Lines Ltd. ■ Sherwin Williams-Brantford (8772) ■ ShopBrantford.com ■ Sonoco Canada Corporation ■ South Coast Financial Services ■ Spence Print Solutions ■ St. Joseph’s Lifecare Foundation

■ Staats Law Barristers And Solicitors ■ STM Construction Ltd. ■ StoneRidge Insurance Brokers ■ Steven J. Szasz Fine Quality Homes ■ Tae Photography ■ The Q-META Group/ Bellwether Investment Management ■ Waste Connections of Canada ■ Waterous Holden Amey Hitchon LLP ■ Wenda Allicock Legal Services ■ Wilfrid Laurier University-Brantford Campus ■ William Street Eyecare ■ Willowbridge Community Services Inc. (formerly Family Counselling Centre of Brant) ■ Woodview Mental Health & Autism Services ■ Xplornet Enterprise Solutions ■ J. H. Young & Sons Ltd.

View our full directory online at >> brantfordbrantchamber.com January 2021

7

Advocacy With the pace of activity this fall and winter, our partners at the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and Canadian Chamber of Commerce have been very active on behalf of the business community, and have shown an unprecedented effort to collaborate and work with partners and organizations across all sectors of the economy.

Through the fall, you may have participated in up to three surveys over 10 weeks from the OCC through our E-News. This data helped to create the recently released Ontario Economic Report, available here: https://occ.ca/oer2021/. Key highlights: 1) The pandemic has created outsized effects on some sectors – some positive and some negative 2) Small business and entrepreneurs have been hit especially hard, and many are uncertain of recovery prospects

Through the Canadian Business Resilience Network, the CCC is executing a coordinated, business-led, inclusive campaign in both official languages, with the overarching goals of mitigating the impact of the pandemic on our economy, our communities and our citizens and positioning business to help drive Canada’s economic recovery. If you have not yet had the chance to visit the CBRN microsite, please take the opportunity to do so at https://cbrn.ca/.

These efforts, made possible through our investment as members with our voice at the table, have seen the federal government adopt a few of our policy and programming recommendations: » Provide direct support to employers to cover a significant percent of wages paid to workers who would otherwise lose their jobs » Defer tax deadlines, audits and payments

3) Winners within and moving into recovery are Innovators, digital transformation, and growth oriented businesses and sectors

» Help affected businesses access emergency credit and capital swiftly and interest-free

4) No region, sector, or demographic should be ignored in economic recovery expectations and supports.

» Provide provisional extensions for temporary foreign workers already in Canada

Please review the entire, interactive report for more insight about where Ontario business is emerging from this winter.

» Reduce tariffs for essential medical supplies

In April, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce established the Canadian Business Resilience Network (CBRN). The CBRN includes a vast network of over 450 chambers of commerce and boards of trade, over 100 of Canada’s leading business and industry associations and other leading organizations, including the Business Council of Canada, the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters and the Retail Council of Canada.

While the pandemic has presented challenges, we also feel that it has presented opportunities for leadership. We know that the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, as Canada’s largest and most representative business network, has never been more necessary. Working with government and other stakeholders, we are ensuring the decisions taken during this time reflect the needs of our businesses and Canadian communities, large and small.

CHAMBER MERCHANT DISCOUNT PROGRAMS

Our Discount programs mean direct savings for your business.

Learn more at brantfordbrantchamber.com/discount-partners

p i h s r e b m e m f o t i f e n e b A

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January 2021

Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com

Get Your Building On Track!

BRAND NEW River Rail Business Park Industrial land for SALE OR LEASE with Rail Shunt Available!

Located at Powerline & Oak Park, River Rail is the only one of its kind in Brant County, with C.N. Rail shunts available and immediate access to Highway 403. All buildings feature premium façade treatments and more! Inquire today. Let’s get your exciting new Class ‘A’ M3 Industrial Space rolling.

• • • •

Up to 500,000 sq.ft. Design-Build Opportunities Located at Powerline & Oak Park in Brant County Ample parking available 10% Finished Office Space with Mezzanine

• • • •

Access to Highway 403 Minutes to Pearson International Airport Supports various uses Hwy 403 signage visibility

For more information contact LANCA CONTRACTING LIMITED AT 519.756.1880 • LANCA.COM Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com

January 2021

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Member Profile Brant Family and Children’s Services Foundation The well-being and safety of children and youth is our primary focus. Together with our community, we strive to protect children and youth and strengthen families. Our agency provides child welfare Services in Brantford, Brant and New Credit.

The Brant Family and Children’s Services Foundation was established to provide additional funds in support of the children who are in the care of Brant FACS. Funding is also used to support programs, services and activities that fall outside of the Brant FACS funding criteria, but that are known to reduce the risks of child abuse and/or neglect, and improve outcomes for families, children and youth that work with Brant FACS. The Foundation supports our families through our local summer camp programs.

Camps are carefully matched to the child’s

individual interests and needs. Each summer, the Foundation provides funding for approximately 500+ community children.

We also provide post-secondary Education Financial support as well as funding for various special projects throughout the year, such as Adult programming, Community Dinners etc.

100% of the funds donated to the Foundation are applied directly to the programs that it supports.

Due to Covid, our camp programs did not run for 2020. We are optimistically planning for 2021. We did however, continue with our Post-Secondary Education program and most of our special projects which were revised and adjusted to accommodate Covid protocol.

We are thrilled to be Chamber members, under the not-for-profit category and look forward to networking with other members soon.

We are in the process of rebranding and will be soon be known as Smile Endowment Supporting Brant’s Children and Youth in Care. If you are interested in more information or you would like to offer your support in the form of a donation, sponsorship, or a potential partnership please reach out to us. https://brantfacs. ca/foundation-fundraising/ Follow us on Instagram: Brant FACS Foundation and Facebook: Brant Family and Children’s Services

Customized Insurance Coverage That Works for You

Cowan Insurance Group takes the time to understand your needs and build an integrated solution tailored to you.

Toll-Free: 1-800-563-0000

Business Insurance • Personal Insurance Group Benefits • Wealth Management

225 King George Road, Brantford, ON N3R 7N7

We care about what you care about cowangroup.ca

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January 2021

Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com

Ask A Lawyer

Your business is valuable. Protecting it is, too.

Waterous Holden Amey Hitchon LLP

Scott J. DeGroot Waterous Holden Amey Hitchon LLP Brantford, 20 Wellington St., Brantford.

A penny of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

In Family Law, this adage applies to the negotiation of a marriage contract. A marriage contract is an agreement between two persons that addresses the rights and obligations of each party during their marriage, and upon breakdown of their marriage. When discussing a marriage contract, there are two important concepts to keep in mind: substance and procedure.

Substance refers to the rights and obligations of each party arising from the contract. As a business owner, you are likely aware that your business has value – if you were so inclined, you could sell your business to an interested buyer. You may not be aware that in the event of a marriage breakdown, this value is subject to division in accordance with the Family Law Act. This occurs through a process called equalization of family property. For example, if your business is valued at $500,000.00, your spouse will be entitled to $250,000.00.

This is an oversimplification, but useful for illustrative purposes.

included in the division of property, or that the value of the business be excluded from division altogether. The contract may also contemplate how payment will be made, including a negotiated payment plan to ease your ability to pay without jeopardizing the operation of the business.

Procedure refers to the process of arriving at an agreement. Undertaking the proper procedure is essential to the preparation of a proper marriage contract. This includes: (a) Financial Disclosure: Each party to the contract must make full disclosure of his/ her income, assets, debts and liabilities. (b) Independent Legal Advice: Each party to the contract must have independent legal advice with respect to the substance of the contract.

When any of these are absent from the negotiation, the marriage contract is vulnerable to future intervention by a Court.

If you do not intend to get married, but plan to reside with a new partner, the same considerations of substance and procedure apply to common law spouses when negotiating a cohabitation agreement.

Although the law treats common law spouses differently from married spouses, many of the risks to your business are the same.

No matter your current relationship status, the Family Law lawyers at Waterous Holden Amey Hitchon LLP have the expertise to help protect your business through a negotiated marriage contract or cohabitation agreement.

(c) Time: Each party must have ample time to consider the terms of the contract that he/she is signing.

Paying $250,000.00 may prove problematic to you personally, and for continued operation of your business. A marriage contract can protect against this outcome in a number of ways. The contract may contemplate that only a smaller percentage of the business be

Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com

January 2021

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Business Excellence Awards - 2021 The Chamber of Commerce Brantford Brant Business Excellence Awards Finalists’ Announcement was held on Tuesday Feb. 2nd at 4:00 p.m. virtually. https://youtu.be/D0GNfDpgWpw Finalists were announced in three categories recognizing local businesses, entrepreneurs, and organizations who demonstrate exceptional business achievements and exemplary community citizenship.

The Virtual Finalists’ Announcement was presented in partnership with BDO Canada LLP and supported by Crossing All Bridges Learning Centre, PQI Canada Ltd. and Vive Mechanical Inc. The Business Excellence Awards program, established in 1985, is the premier business event held in our region annually by the Chamber of Commerce Brantford - Brant. Initially, one award was presented to one company.

The award criteria expanded in 1990 to include smaller companies. In 1996, the categories were changed to include a Company Award as well as an Entrepreneur Award. These categories, combined with the Community Builder and Individual Outstanding Achievement Awards, more appropriately reflect the membership profile of the Chamber of Commerce Brantford - Brant.

The David Baxter Memorial Award for Outstanding Individual Achievement is sponsored by Sonoco Canada Corporation and will be presented during the Awards event, scheduled for May 20th.

The Business Excellence Awards, presented in partnership with BDO Canada LLP, will be held virtually on Thurs. May 20th. Online registration is now open.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available at the Silver Sponsor level. For more information please contact: Leslie Barker, 519-753-2617 Ext # 21 or leslie@brcc.ca

PRESENTING SPONSOR

DOUBLE PLATINUM

Bell Community Builder Finalists The COMMUNITY BUILDER AWARD recognizes an organization whose initiatives demonstrate sustained and long-term commitment to improving the quality of life in our community.

Booster Juice – Dan Mehta As Canada’s original juice and smoothie bar, their mission is to create long-standing customer relationships by consistently delivering an incredibly delicious, convenient and nutritious product, perfectly suited for an active lifestyle. As a brand, they promise to offer premium products while providing an extraordinary customer experience in a clean and safe environment. Both locations, locally owned and operated by Dan Mehta.

Ironstone Entrance Technologies Inc. Meghann Bell Ironstone Entrance Technologies has been a force to be reckoned with in the automatic door industry, since 2009. Created by a husband-and-wife team, Cam and Meghann Bell set out to take formal entrances, “out of the box” with their custom design and installation. The Bell’s have a passion for building entrance ways that are not only safe and secure, but are also AODA compliant, making them accessible to everyone. By understanding the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, Ironstone continues to support all local businesses that are currently not accessible or AODA compliant.

Lansdowne Children’s Centre – Rita-Marie Hadley Lansdowne Children’s Centre was incorporated as a treatment centre in 1974; the history that preceded this incorporation is extensive. Starting from 1952 to 2012.

PLATINUM

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January 2021

Mission - Supporting children and youth with physical, developmental or communication needs, and their families. Vision - realizing optimal potential for children and youth.

Within the supportive context of the client’s life and committed to safe, accessible and accountable teamwork. Their values are: Respect, Inclusion, Diversity and Empowerment [RIDE].

Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com

Enterprise Brant Entrepreneur Finalists

Waterous, Holden, Amey, Hitchon Company Finalists

The ENTREPRENEUR AWARD recognizes an individual who operates a business at their own financial risk, demonstrates product innovation and growth in sales or employment.

The COMPANY AWARD recognizes exceptional business achievements, high standards of employee relations, a strong corporate philosophy and making a positive impact in the community.

The Beauty Barn - Corrie Gallant

Cowan Insurance Group Ltd. – Bob Herron

Operating since 2017 and located on the outskirts of Brantford/Paris. Brantford’s first private country barn spa destination. Unlike other spas, they are situated in the country alongside a beautiful outdoor setting. The Beauty Barn is a boutique day spa/medi spa/salon and event space. Offering Laser Hair removal, Eyelash Extensions, Facials and Microdermabrasion, Massage, Body treatments, Mani/Pedi’s, Waxing, and premier hairdressing services.

Cowan Insurance Group has been providing insurance and risk management to businesses, organizations, and individuals since 1927. Their heritage has enabled them to be an integral part of the Brantford and Brant County community since their earliest days.

CPR Cell Phone Repair – Steve and Lorraine Garnham Electronic device repair experts - CPR technicians have the professional experience to diagnose and fix the problem, fast. Beyond smartphones, they specialize in a wide variety of digital device repairs including computers, laptops, game consoles, cameras, MP3 players, and much more. They strive to create solutions that work for both your device and your wallet. CPR will continue to lead the wireless repair industry as the experts in fast, efficient repairs.

Whole Body Health – Dr. Shaelyn Osborn Providing chiropractic care in the Brantford area since 1999. Dr. Shaelyn Osborn has been delivering quality chiropractic care to Brantford and the surrounding area since 1999. “Brantford is my home town – I was born and raised here!” After attending University and Chiropractic College, Dr. Osborn returned to Brantford to practice with Dr. Janice Hughes. In 2003, Dr. Osborn became the CEO of Whole Body Health. She is now joined in practice by Dr. Tanya Hintz-Parry and Dr. Sydney Smith.

At Whole Body Health, they are committed to helping individuals and families achieve optimal health and wellness. Their mission is to educate, empower and inspire people to live the wellness lifestyle.

Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com

FINALISTS ANNOUNCEMENT EVENT SILVER

Over the past century, Cowan has built an active and growing full-service insurance brokerage and consulting firm through their relentless focus on identifying and serving client needs. Yet even as they grow, they have never lost sight of the values on which their company was founded—their clients are, and always will be, at the heart of everything they do.

Their commitment to the communities where their employees live and work is unwavering.

SILVER

Minotaur Stormwater Services Ltd. – Aaron Shaver A comprehensive inspection, monitoring and service program for Stormceptor® units was not available until one was developed and implemented

by Minotaur. Since incorporation in January 2000, Minotaur has become the leading specialist in the inspection and service of Stormceptor® units.

Minotaur has been exclusively retained by Forterra Pipe & Precast to provide an inspection, service and repair program for all Stormceptor® units in Ontario.

In 2002, Lécuyer & Fils Ltée engaged Minotaur to provide the same maintenance program to Québec.

Polluted stormwater runoff can wreak havoc on our recreational waterways and the local economy.

Responsible companies and landowners use Stormceptor® stormwater collection units to protect their property — which helps us all. Minotaur’s role is to service those stormwater collectors and ensure that they are performing in compliance with Ministry regulations and warranty specifications.

West Brant Window World – Mike Mears Experience, personality and attention to detail best describes their business. Since 1993 West Brant Window World has created a very strong presence in the window and door market, in the Southern Ontario Region. West Brant Window World has a strong reputation for going above and beyond to ensure the products they sell are installed properly, resulting in many, many years of customer satisfaction.

January 2021

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Member Profile The Blue Dog in A New World We bought The Blue Dog on May 30th of 2019. A staple of Brant Ave., known for their delicious food and drinks and as a meeting place for the community. Seeking to build upon that solid foundation we began introducing our own flavour little by little. Slowly but surely, it began…a game night here, a trivia night there, a few local musicians filling our space with magic. We setup our game library and ran events in an effort to build up the patronage and spread the word. It started to happen. Our trivia nights were at capacity, our game nights and live music nights were picking up steam.

Things were looking up!

We expanded our retail and provided free local delivery. With indoor dining on the way back we opened our doors again on June 15th. I took my place at the counter for the first time.

As a new business owner, I hadn’t had the time to get into the day-to-day operations of being personally involved with our customers. Now that things had slowed and staff was at a minimum, I was able to throw myself into the real thick of it, which felt good.

For the first time I really felt like I was getting to know the people we serve. We have continued to expand and improve what we offer with our coffee subscriptions throughout southwestern Ontario and our upcoming partnership with Collective Arts Brewing. We are not sure what the future holds for us but we remain optimistic and ready to take on the challenge.

Due to the pandemic, we closed the cafe on March 17th of 2020. Take-out only wasn’t sustainable for us so we decided to reexamine our business. We used the time to repaint (something we never could have been able to do otherwise) and built our online shop. Being the only employee left, it created a massive learning curve as I transitioned from learning our new cafe business to learning the world of E-commerce.

Chamber AGM and Presidents Event

l a u t Vir

A Division of McDougall Energy Inc.

Tuesday March 30th, 2021 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.

HOME • COMMERCIAL • FARM FURNACE OIL

PROPANE

CARD LOCKS

DIESEL & GAS

LUBRICANTS

RETAIL STATIONS

HEATING & COOLING SYSTEMS

Serving your community for over 60 years

22 King Street RR#2 Burford, ON

519.449.2417 1.800.369.0480

www.davisfuels.ca

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Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com

2013-03-12 4:17 PM

Member Profile Dragonfly Landscape Supply Dragonfly Landscape Supply is proud to be a local, family run business out of Paris, Ontario. Owned by husband-and-wife duo, Heidi and Nick, Dragonfly Landscape Supply specializes in quality landscaping products and exceptional customer service… with a personal touch that goes above and beyond. From mulch to aggregates and more, Dragonfly Landscape Supply offers everything you need to create stunning landscapes, found in one convenient place.

We are excited to now be open for the 2021 season! Browse our wide selection of landscape materials available on our user-friendly and informative website. Take advantage of our handy material calculator tool to plan your next project or browse helpful

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videos and blogs for tips and tricks that will make your garden pop. Stop by in-person for advice and guidance from our friendly team.

While you’re here, take time to browse our gift shop to find fun decor suited for each season.

It’s not easy to leave empty handed.

Beautiful landscapes start at Dragonfly Landscape Supply.

Dragonfly Landscape Supply is dedicated to our customers, with an experienced team that is always available to provide assistance.

Our extensive knowledge and large selection of landscape supplies let us offer the best service possible.

We provide same-day delivery on all orders for in-stock landscaping supplies submitted before 3pm. With affordable rates and quick delivery, you get the materials you need when you need them.

January 2021

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January 2021

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Financial Feature

RRSP or TFSA? That is the question FirstOntario Credit Union

can be used as a down payment for your first home or for post-secondary education or training. You borrow from your RRSP for those purposes, interest free, and you pay no withholding taxes. You simply pay it back into your RRSP gradually over a number of years, or faster, without penalty. If you withdraw RRSP funds for any other reason– you will be taxed.

The magic in RRSPs is that contributions are tax deductible, they reduce your reported income which means you pay less tax now, and you also defer any taxes on the investment returns inside the RRSP.

David Schurman

A sometimes confusing question to many – what should you invest in, a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) or a Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA)? The answer should depend on your financial situation and your goals.

An RRSP’s primary purpose is retirement, you should see it as building savings for the long term. But, there are also other ways you can take advantage of an RRSP. These funds

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You can contribute 18% of earned income to an RRSP annually, up to a maximum amount ($27,830 for 2021 tax year). You can find your current contribution room in your CRA notice of assessment. If you don’t use all of your contribution room this year, you can accumulate it and invest in future years. The flip side of an RRSP is that you will eventually pay income tax when you take the funds out, which is usually in retirement when you convert it to a RRIF to provide you with income.

If you use RRSPs to draw income early in your retirement, it gives you the option of potentially delaying Canada Pension Plan

and/or Old Age Security past age 65 which will get you a higher monthly benefit.

Switching to TFSAs, they can be used for any type of savings goal– a car, home renovation, vacation, emergency fund, or retirement. You can use it for whatever you like. It’s flexible and easily accessible.

TFSAs are not tax deductible, so there is no immediate tax savings like an RRSP. But you don’t ever pay tax on investment returns inside your TFSA and you don’t pay tax on withdrawals. The higher the investment return on your TFSA, the more valuable the product is to you. Withdraws from a TFSA can be re-contributed the following year without penalty. As in an RRSP there is a maximum amount you can contribute, for 2021 that amount is $6000, and you can also carry any unused contribution room forward. An advantage of a TFSA is there is no maximum age, so you can contribute and maintain savings in a TFSA for as long as you like.

Whichever product is the better fit for you, RRSP or TFSA, you should take advantage of saving taxes and growing your savings.

FirstOntario has a knowledgeable team who can go over your options and possibilities, and can create a customized investment plan just for you.

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FirstOntario supports your big dream of a small business. #buylocal HAVE YOU BEEN IN BUSINESS FOR AT LEAST TWO YEARS? ARE YOU LOOKING TO STEP UP YOUR GAME? Consider FirstOntario’s 1Awards and visit 1Awards.ca for more information.

1-800-616-8878

BusinessBanking@FirstOntario.com

FirstOntario.com

54th Annual

A portion of the tournament proceeds will be in support of a not for profit Chamber Member.

Chamber Golf Tournament Wed. June 2nd, 2021 Copetown Woods Golf Course

$185 inclusive per golfer

Includes your round of golf, golf cart, lunch, dinner, mulligans, golfer goodie bag and golfer prize.

Register at www.brantfordbrantchamber.com 18

January 2021

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Co-op Recruitment & Funding Your Hire Webinar presented in partnership with the University of Waterloo Could you use an extra set of hands on the job? Have you considered hiring a student but aren’t sure how to get started? Join the University of Waterloo to learn expert tips on co-op recruiting best practices, how to navigate the hiring process like a pro, and accessing up to 70% funding to support your hire.

The University of Waterloo is home to the world’s largest co-op program, mobilizing

25,000+ of Canada’s brightest university students from over 120 co-op programs each year (8,000+ each term) into the workforce.

They are the go-to experts when it comes to learning how to attract, recruit and retain the next generation of talent. Waterloo students are drawn to innovation, new experiences and making a difference. For over 60 years, employers from around the corner and around

the world have been working with Waterloo’s dedicated staff team to find the right talent for their business.

If you have questions about hiring or would like to connect with a member of the team to talk about your hiring needs contact Marg Johnston: marg.johnston@uwaterloo.ca or visit uwaterloo.ca/hire/small-business.

Lunch and Learn Thurs. April 22nd @ Noon Register at brantfordbrantchamber.com

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January 2021

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Member Profile Thorpe Brothers’ Funeral Home We’re all made up of little details that make each of us unique and irreplaceable. When it comes to planning a celebration of life, it’s important to find a provider that honours these differences, to create a meaningful and fitting service.

At Thorpe Brothers’ Funeral Home, there are many details that set us apart.

Differences you’ll find nowhere else. Our Compassion Helpline offers families unlimited complimentary phone access to professional grief counsellors. Our global travel partnerships allow us to assist you and your family with time-sensitive travel arrangements. We’ll help find you the best available options so that you can be with your

loved ones when and where they need you.

While we hope this never happens, with our Family First Cost Protection when you have a prepaid plan with Thorpe Brother’s Funeral Home and suffer the loss of an unmarried child or grandchild who is under the age of 21, we’ll take care of funeral or cremation services up to the same level as your own plan. This protection is at no cost to you, through any provider in the Dignity Memorial family.

attention to detail that are second to none.

We stand behind that promise with a 100% Service Guarantee.

We celebrate every life with services as diverse and varied as the families we serve.

When you plan with us, you’re not choosing a provider you’re choosing a partner. One defined by professionalism, compassion and

Formerly BCT and Cozzmic Communications

At Cozzmic, we care.

Our Services:

Phone Systems Data Networks Access Control Security CCTV Cabling Internet

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January 2021

www.cozzmic.com

20 Ryan Place, Unit #3A, Brantford, ON Local: 519-752-3553 | TF: 1-800-521-4837

Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com

MEMBER EXCLUSIVE PRICING HOME OF NO ADMIN FEE

At Brantford Toyota, Chamber of Commerce members receive: Exclusive VIP Pricing on new and pre-owned vehicles No admin fee Great sales and service experiences!

Brantford Toyota donates a portion of all vehicle sales to Brantford community and mumerous charities included: The Shoebox Foundation, Brantford Food Bank, Boys & Girls Club of Brantford, Skip Burst and more (see our website for details).

Member of the 2020 Toyota President’s Club

5 Woodyatt Dr, Brantford ON N3R 7K1 519-752-1039 | brantfordtoyota.ca

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Introducing a new business solution Xplornet Enterprise Solutions is now available locally, for fast and reliable business Internet services that offer: > > > > >

Nationwide Connectivity Rural/Remote Solutions Custom Bandwidth 24/7 Network Support Redundant Connections Talk to us today about your specific business needs Call 855.638.7381 or visit enterprise.xplornet.com

Your propane company since 1951

Clean Propane Energy Our Kids Will Thank Us Convenient payment & automatic delivery options Appliance sales, installation, service & repair A er-hours emergency service Canadian owned and locally operated

St. George 183 Industrial Blvd.

St. George, ON N0E 1N0

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January 2021

Toll-Free

1-866-517-1714

Visit

Sparlings.com

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First the telephone.

Now the world’s fastest Internet technology.

Brantford, say hello to pure fibre Internet.

Bell is proud to bring pure fibre Internet to Brantford.

Get 100% fibre directly to your home and enjoy the fastest Internet technology at an amazing price.

FIBE 150 INTERNET

89

$

95/mo.

1

Download and upload speeds of up to 150 Mbps Unlimited usage

$59.95 one-time activation fee.

During COVID-19, health and safety measures are in place to protect our customers and employees.

For expert advice, an incredible selection and to verify availability, contact:

BRANTFORD Lynden Park Mall 519 756-6742

BRANTFORD Sobeys Plaza West Brant 519 756-9100

Current as of February 6, 2021. Offer ends March 31, 2021. Available to new residential customers in select dwellings in Brantford, where access/technology permit. Subject to change without notice; not combinable with other offers. Taxes extra.

Customer must opt to receive paperless billing. Modem rental included. Speed experienced on the Internet may vary with your technical configuration, Internet traffic, server, your environment, simultaneous use of IPTV (if applicable) and other factors.

(1) Price is subject to increase during your subscription. Any change made to services may affect the price and/or result in the loss of credits or promotions, as the case may be, as eligibility conditions may vary. Fibe is a trademark of Bell Canada.

Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com

January 2021

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The County of Brant business community represents a multi-sector economy that has shown extraordinary resilience. Working together, constructively, among industry stakeholders and agencies, our businesses continue to deliver extraordinary value and positive economic impact in the County of Brant.

MANUFACTURING • Industrial, Commercial & Institutional construction permits in 2020 totaling $44,831,000.00 added further value to the economy in the County of Brant.

• 4 County of Brant businesses were recognized by the Trillium Network for Advanced Manufacturing for pivoting to create products to help stop the spread of COVID-19.

AGRICULTURE • Local industry stakeholders collaborating in the creation of the Conestoga College Ag Equipment Operators program, adding workforce opportunities in the County of Brant.

• On-farm diversification activities encouraging existing operations to expand, and new businesses to develop, creating jobs and positive economic impact in the County of Brant.

CREATIVE AND CULTURAL INDUSTRIES • Entrepreneurship & innovation spurred 33 new business openings in 2020 creating jobs and even greater economic opportunity in the County of Brant.

• Digital media production is expanding within Brant and new filming productions utilize Brant locations delivering further positive economic impact in the County of Brant.

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES • The Brant Community Health Hub enters the construction phase and will soon be delivering added investment attraction in the County of Brant.

• County of Brant businesses offered Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to frontline healthcare workers during the onset of the pandemic.

Economic Development & Tourism, County of Brant

QDEC @InvestinBrant

| #BRANTWORKS

www.investinbrant.ca