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In December, our region lost a life long community champion in Rick Sterne. I am honoured to have been mentored by Rick throughout my career in Brantford and Brant. Rick was a Chamber champion, serving as President in 1999, receiving the Outstanding Achievement Award in 2013, and remaining as an engaged member of the Chamber’s Advocacy Committee through 2023. Rick’s commitment to community building through service was demonstrated through his work in the Rotary Club of Brantford, including rising to the leadership level of District Governor. In our advocacy work with government, Rick would actively encourage the business community to offer solutions and resources, while demanding responsible and transparent use of taxes and decision making in program delivery. Your investment in the Chamber and its network partners is essential to the continued improvement of the business environment in Canada. The Chamber actively engages with our colleagues at other Chambers, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, and the Canadian Chamber of Commerce to amplify
issues, and policy recommendations to address them. Look for our 2nd Annual Advocacy Outlook in the centre of this month’s edition, this year focusing on our provincial and national efforts. Optimism arrives with each new year,
and within the Chamber membership and network, that spirit is enhanced by the purpose of business and its champions – to deliver on the promise of economic prosperity and improved quality of life through commerce in our country. In the City of Brantford, County of Brant, and our neighbours the Six Nations of the Grand River and Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, we remain uniquely positioned to collectively benefit from our central geography within one days drive from 44% of the GDP of North America, access to clean water and clean energy, a robust and diverse labour market, post-secondary education, training, and development, and a growing population base.
I look forward to seeing you at an event, or connecting with you this year on the phone, email, or in – person.
I
n Better Events Management Group Inc.
EVENT PLANNERS
John Reiser (905) 581-2512
john@betterevents.ca
Brantford, ON
n Gleis Law LAWYERS
Madison Gleis (226) 922-9561
madison@gleislaw.ca
Brantford, ON
n Heartland Mutual Insurance INSURANCE - GENERAL
Tim Howard (833) 202-4510
thoward@hfmi.ca
Brantford, ON
n Nicki Straza Coaching & Consulting MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS
Nicki Straza (519) 732-3159
nickistraza@nickistraza.com
Brantford, ON
n Rhino Cutting Systems Inc.
AUTOMATION SYSTEMS & EQUIPMENT
Paul Bhogal (647) 505-4853
paul@rhinocuttingsystems.com
Brantford, ON
n RiverView Terrace
RETIREMENT HOMES & COMMUNITIES
MaryAnn Tomlinson (519) 756-4141
maryann.tomlinson@riverviewterrace.ca Brantford, ON
n Specsavers Lynden Park Mall
OPTICIANS DISPENSING
Patricia Espinoza de Faria (226) 730-0873
patricia.espinozadefaria@specsavers.com
Brantford, ON
n True North Golf & Sports Lounge
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
Andres Rojas (226) 400-7058
arojas@thebearpawgroup.ca
Wilsonville, ON
Do
After an incredible two years with Paul Bisanti leading the Chamber, a promising longtime member is stepping up. Current Vice President Chris Rayfield has been with the Chamber since 2014 and as of January 1st will be the new President at the Chamber of Commerce BrantfordBrant.
Rayfield began his business career immediately after graduation from university as a customer service representative with ACIC Pharmaceuticals. With no experience other than a degree and a diploma, he put his head down and worked as if he were already at the top. He grew within the company by being promoted into a sales role, followed by sales manager, VP Sales, and ultimately President. Rayfield has been with ACIC for over 28 years and is truly a product of hard work and devotion. ACIC is a supplier of products and services to both the North American and international
pharmaceutical markets. The company offers a wide range of services including active pharmaceutical ingredients, injectable pharmaceutical products, pharmaceutical machinery, and much more.
His journey with the Chamber of Commerce began when ACIC was nominated for and won the Waterous, Holden, Amey, Hitchon Company of the Year Award at the Chamber’s annual Business Excellence Awards. As a result, the Chamber asked Rayfield to join the Business Excellence Committee which he served on for around two years, before being asked to join the Board of Directors. His work within the Chamber has been invaluable over the many years contributing to different areas and projects.
“I’m excited and nervous at the same time. We have a very, very well-spoken, knowledgeable President at present and he left some very big shoes to fill,” said Rayfield.
Continued on Page 13 >
There’s lots about business that I don’t know – I’m never shy about letting people know that. But one of the things I’ve learned and know for sure is that establishing a strong local presence is essential for success when you’re looking to reach the Brantford-Brant community. One effective strategy to achieve this is by sponsoring Chamber events, which not only enhances a company’s visibility but also brings forth a myriad of benefits that contribute to both business growth and community development.
Sponsoring Chamber events provides a unique opportunity to connect with fellow businesses and community leaders, foster relationships, and to align your brand with popular and wellattended events. You enhance your company’s image and build valuable connections.
The Chamber’s events offer significant advantages to sponsors; as local leaders come together to discuss community initiatives and economic development, celebrate local business success, or even just to spend a day on the golf course, your organization gains
exposure among decision-makers. Demonstrate your commitment to the community and position your business as an integral part of local growth and progress!
The Chamber’s event calendar is anchored by the Business Excellence Awards Gala, which takes place each Spring. By supporting this prestigious occasion, you can align yourself with excellence and innovation in the local business community. This not only boosts your brand image but also sets the stage for potential collaborations and partnerships.
Sponsoring Chamber events throughout the year is a strategic investment. It goes beyond mere brand exposure, fostering meaningful connections, and positioning your business as an active participant in the community’s growth.
I’ve always said we’re unique in Brantford-Brant to have a business community that truly wants to see each other succeed and do as much as we can to lift each other up. As you support and engage with fellow community leaders, you contribute to the development of a thriving local ecosystem, where businesses and communities mutually benefit from each other’s success!
< Continued from Page 8
When asked about his goals for his term as president, Rayfield expressed his hopes. Explaining that over the last couple of years, the Chamber has been very involved at both the Provincial and Federal levels. In his opinion, it is very important to continue supporting the business community within the city and county.
“We are the voice of business, and we want to ensure that not only do we keep businesses that are here now, but also attract new businesses to the area. That’s very important to me,” said Rayfield.
Another priority of his is to keep supporting the downtown core’s revitalization and ultimately try to live up to the expectations of the role of president.
As ACIC works mostly internationally, Rayfield brings international knowledge to the table more than local knowledge. Whereas the last
few presidents have been business owners who are very focused on the Brantford community. Whether that deals with building houses, building condominiums, or running an insurance company, their customers have been mainly based in Brantford and the County of Brant.
“Maybe that’s a good thing, maybe that I haven’t been living and breathing Brantford as quite as much might be bringing a different perspective,” said the new President. Although his knowledge extends the
city, he is still a Brantford boy. Rayfield was born and raised in the county and has lived the majority of his life here. He chose to raise his family in Brantford because of his great appreciation for the area.
Rayfield ended our time together with some advice for someone just starting out in their field.
“I think it’s important for younger people or students to be willing to start at the ground level - don’t focus on the money or the title, it’s about getting the door open from the ground up.”
Provide members with essential and focused business services.
Transform access to, engagement with, and delivery of services to the region’s business community.
Find courage to innovate so that our region’s economy thrives.
Attract leaders and connect people that deliver value beyond expectations.
Build collaborations that attract talent and investment to enhance our region’s enviable quality of life.
Our 2022 Advocacy Outlook focused on Municipal Issues, with the Chamber outlining its intentions to work with the City of Brantford and County of Brant on a number of opportunities to improve our community.
We are pleased to report a key policy win in the re-establishment of the Joint City-County Shared Services Committee, and the subsequent inclusion of Transit, Transportation, the Airport, Physician’s Recruitment, and Economic Development, Tourism, and Culture during the Committee’s first meeting in October. While the number of opportunities is daunting, the commitment to work together while respecting the independence and uniqueness of each municipality is admirable and should be acknowledged and congratulated.
Further work on tax ratios, acceptance of surety bonds, and business-friendly practices will continue in 2024, including efforts
to align and support economic development actions with both municipalities as their respective economic development strategies are approved.
The Chamber has a number of touch points locally with our municipalities, including regular engagement with our Mayors, senior leaders, Council Liaisons, and Economic Development staff. The Chamber has a seat on the City of Brantford’s Economic Development, Tourism, and Cultural Initiatives Advisory Committee, the Planning Advisory Committee, the Grand River Council on Aging, the Brantford Airport Board, the Brant Community Foundation Nomination Committee, and the Physicians Recruitment Committee. It also regularly works
with the Downtown Brantford Business Improvement Area on issues impacting business in the downtown.
January is prime provincial policy development month. The Advocacy Committee and Board Executive will be reviewing provincially significant business issues, such as housing, health care, and beverage alcohol, among many others, in preparation for the annual Ontario Chamber of Commerce Advocacy Day at Queen’s Park, our MP/MPP Breakfast March 1st, and the OCC AGM and Policy Convention in late April.
Canadian Chamber of Commerce AGM and Policy Convention in October 2023, with Chamber staff returning for the third year on the committee as well. Under Paul’s leadership, the committee reviewed each of the 67 proposed policies, including four that were authored or co-sponsored by our Chamber. The policies:
✔ Driving Innovation in Canada (Brantford-Brant)
✔ Strengthen the Resilience of Canada’s Food and Beverage Industry by Reinforcing and Stabilizing the Supply Chain of Strategic Commodities (Brantford-Brant)
✔ Create Systems to Provide Adequate Child-care Spaces to Ensure Parents –Particularly Women – Have Equal Opportunities to Enter the Workforce (co-sponsor)
✔ Assisting Small Business with Protecting their Data and Business from Cybercrime (co-sponsor)
and the full policies, including recommendations to government, on our website under Advocacy.
Key Advocacy Events in 2024:
March 1, 2024
“State of the City” Event: April 19, 2024
Mayors’ Luncheon: September 20, 2024
The Chamber also regularly hosts roundtables with MPs, MPPs, and Ministers throughout the year as visits occur to Brantford-Brant. Generally open to all Chamber members and often on short notice, the Board, Advocacy Committee, and sector-related businesses receive invitations first when opportunities arise to meet with politicians. The Chamber of Commerce Brantford-Brant is strictly non-partisan.
2023 was a banner year in federally significant advocacy work for the Chamber. President Paul Bisanti co-chaired the Ontario Caucus Advisory Committee for the I
Please look for a more fulsome discussion of the policy development and review process,
In 2024, we are delighted to partner with the Brantford Regional Real Estate Association to deliver our Advocacy series. Look for our enhanced relationship to highlight the importance of a strong housing sector to improve our community.
As we bid farewell to the current year, Payroll and HR Professionals are gearing up for year-end tasks and anticipating changes on the horizon for 2024.
For Payroll Practitioners the distribution of T4s to employees and their submission to the Canada Revenue Agency by February 29, 2024, takes center stage. Here is a brief guide to navigate this process efficiently:
1. Identify Required Slips: Generally, a T4 suffices, but self-employed individuals may require a T4A.
2. Identify any Changes to T4 reporting: New and mandatory for this year is Box 45. This box indicates whether the employee or any family members were eligible for dental care insurance or coverage as of December 31. Companies that file paper T4s must complete T4 Box 45 in 2023. For companies that file electronically, Box 45 will be introduced in 2024.
3. Reconcile Payroll Deductions: Ensure that payroll source deduction remittances align accurately with the payroll register.
4. Test T4 Summary: Run a preliminary check to confirm that earnings and
deductions are correctly reported in the designated boxes.
5. Self-Audit CPP Contributions and EI Premiums: Conduct a thorough review to ensure compliance and accuracy.
6. Remit Outstanding CPP Contributions and EI Premiums: Settle any pending CPP contributions and EI premiums before the deadline for the final remittance of 2023 calendar year.
7. Confirm Annual Taxable Benefits: Verify taxable benefits received for each employee and accurately report on T4.
8. Choose Distribution Method: Opt for either paper or electronic distribution to employees.
9. Choose a Filing Method: Opt for either paper or electronic.
10. File the Slips: Once you have reviewed both the T4 Summary and individual T4s for accuracy and completeness, you are able to file the T4s!
Shifting gears to the Human Resources arena, the onset of the new year
presents an invaluable opportunity to review the organization’s policy manual and consider legislative changes. There have been significant changes to employment laws in the last few years, and several proposals which may take effect in the coming year would require some adjustments to usual practices. Ontario has proposed several amendments to the Employment Standards Act 2000 centered on the content of job postings. If passed, employers will be required to include salary ranges in publicly advertised job postings, remove job requirements related to Canadian work experience, and disclose whether artificial intelligence is used in the recruitment process. As always, Employers and HR Professionals need to stay informed and update workplace policies to comply with the latest legislation. For further information please do not hesitate to contact us at (519)759-3511 or visit us at www.millards.com I
Caitlin Turner
Litigation including estates, personal injury, insurance, and employment.
Derek Sinko
Litigation including civil/commercial, construction, real property, municipal, appeals, employment, and human rights.
Scott DeGroot
Family Law including property division, support issues, parenting, and preparing domestic contracts.
ntario has a complicated two-part system in place to compensate people who are injured in car accidents. The system can be overwhelming and frustrating to navigate, especially when you are trying to focus on getting better and
The first part of the system is referred to as Accident Benefits, or “ABs”.
Every automobile insurance policy in Ontario includes AB coverage. Its purpose is to provide a person injured in a car accident with quick access to medical and rehabilitation treatment and financial support, regardless of who is “at-fault”. If you own your own car, you apply for ABs with your own automobile insurer. There is a 30day deadline to make an application, although strict compliance with the
Basic AB coverage provides an Income Replacement Benefit (“IRB”) of up to $400 per week to those who have a substantial inability to perform the essential tasks of their employment or self-employment. The benefit is payable after a 7-day waiting period. It is a good idea to purchase enhanced IRB coverage, particularly if you do not have Short Term Disability or Long Term Disability benefits. For employees, the calculation or IRBs is simple. Calculating IRB entitlement for the self-employed can be more complicated, often requiring the assistance of an accountant.
Depending on the severity of the injury, basic AB coverage includes $3,500, $65,000, or $1,000,000 for medical, rehabilitation, and attendant care needs. Coverage can be used for a variety of non-OHIP covered services, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, psychological counselling, the assistance of a personal support worker, and medical devices.
Depending on your circumstances, other benefits may apply to you, such as Non-Earner Benefits, Lost Educational, Expenses, and Housekeeping.
While you do not need a lawyer to apply for Accident Benefits, getting legal help can ensure you access all the benefits that you are entitled to.
The second part of the system is referred to as the “tort side”. The tort side is where an injured person pursues damages, often through a lawsuit, from the person (or people) at fault for the accident.
Damages that can be recovered on the tort side include damages for “pain and suffering” (“General Damages”), income loss, future medical costs, and out-ofpocket expenses. To recover in tort, you must have applied for ABs. You also
must have a “serious and permanent impairment of an important physical, mental, or psychological function”, which is referred to as “meeting the threshold”.
Whether or not someone meets the threshold depends on the level of recovery they achieve, the restrictions they have been left with, and how those restrictions impact the activities that are most important to that person. An injured person has two years from the date of an accident to start a lawsuit, which allows enough time to pass to decide if the threshold is likely to have been met.
It is important to get advice as soon as possible if you are hurt in a car accident to ensure you receive medical care and income support as soon as possible and to protect a potential tort claim. The personal injury lawyers at Waterous Holden Amey Hitchon LLP offer free consultations to those injured in an accident. We are here to help.
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The Affinity Conference Centre, located at 30 Fen Ridge Court, Brantford, is Brantford’s newest state-of-the-art wedding venue. It boasts amenities, accommodations and event staff expertise that makes it the top choice for hosting dream weddings.
Although the space was originally designed as a 400-person venue, with wedding trends post pandemic moving towards smaller gatherings, the space can be divided into three smaller sections ideal for up to 100 guests. Each section offers its separate entrance, built-in bar, dance floor, AV screen and sound system. For those looking to host an on-site ceremony, two sections can be reserved using one for the wedding ceremony eliminating the need for guests to travel between venues. Accommodations are also available on-site making this a destination wedding for out-of-town guests and a safe haven for those who wish to indulge.
The venue itself offers 24 foot ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and a neutral colour pallet allowing each individual bride’s vision to shine. The venue offers fully customizable menus and bar offerings to suit every budget. The experienced event planner and executive chef are open to collaboration to ensure the menu perfectly suits the couple’s tastes.
In relation to The Knot.com’s 2024 wedding trend prediction of off-peak wedding date, Affinity Conference Centre caters to events 7 days of the week. One option is a Sunday Brunch Wedding with the ceremony taking place on location at 11:30 a.m., followed by a mimosa reception at noon, and a three course plated lunch at 1 p.m.
Guests can mingle and enjoy wedding cake before departing at 4 p.m. This allows everyone to be home for Sunday dinner and well-rested for the work week.
Jenn Davies, Event Planner Extraordinaire, has a vast career in Event Planning and has worked with clients such as Former Prime Minister John Turner and Allison McGill, Wedding Bells Magazine Editor & Chief. Jenn holds an Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree specializing in
Hospitality Management from the University of Guelph. She is happy to be sharing her banquet experience with the local community of Brant and Brantford.
Together Jenn and the experienced events team can bring a couples’ dream wedding to reality in this stunning new venue.
Contact Jenn Davies today for a tour of the space.
Affinity Conference Centre at TownePlace Suites by Marriott, Brantford
30 Fen Ridge Court Brantford, N3V 1G2 events@bawagroup.net
www.affinityconferencecentre.com 519-720-2771
In today’s global economy, the need for skilled workers has become increasingly vital for the sustained growth and success of businesses. However, finding the right talent with the necessary skills and experience can often be a challenging and timeconsuming process, especially when navigating international borders and work visa requirements. Ponder Recruiting is revolutionizing this process by connecting companies in Canada with exceptional talent from Latin America through an exclusive work visa program, eliminating the
need for the LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) process, and facilitating the entire recruitment and relocation process in 15 weeks.
Ponder has recognized the immense potential of the Latin American talent pool and aims to bridge the gap between the region and Canada by streamlining the immigration process for skilled workers. By leveraging their extensive network and deep understanding of both the Canadian and Latin American job markets, Ponder Recruiting identifies and recruits top-tier professionals across various professions.
One of the key advantages of Ponder Recruiting’s approach is the exclusive work visa program that significantly expedites the immigration process for the recruited talent. By bypassing the traditional LMIA process, Ponder Recruiting empowers companies in Canada to swiftly onboard skilled
professionals from Latin America without bureaucratic hurdles.
Ponder’s commitment to a 15week timeline from recruitment to relocation underscores their dedication to efficiency and timeliness. This accelerated process allows companies to fill critical roles with exceptional talent and also provides a streamlined experience for the recruited professionals, ensuring a smooth transition to their new work environment in Canada.
Ponder Recruiting’s innovative approach to talent acquisition and immigration is reshaping the landscape of international recruitment. By simplifying the process, reducing barriers, and accelerating timelines, Ponder is empowering companies to access the best talent while providing skilled professionals the opportunity to contribute to Canada’s vibrant workforce.
ShopBrantford.com is an online marketing platform, marketplace, and directory for small businesses in Brantford and Brant County.
The platform is built on the belief that if we spend our money with local businesses, our economy will grow and prosper.
It offers consumers a comprehensive “shop local” directory of businesses owned and operated in Brantford and Brant County to make it as easy as possible to shop locally. But it is much more than just a directory. ShopBrantford.com is a Swiss Army Knife of digital marketing tools built to help small businesses grow their presence online and connect with their current customers and new consumers.
Need help growing your online presence? ShopBrantford.com could be the answer. It’s all about spreading the message that we should shop where we are neighbours, not where we are numbers.
By coming together under a common message that also drives people to a web destination where they can take action, ShopBrantford.com harnesses the collective power of the local business community to give independents a voice that’s even louder than the big corporate brands that dot the landscape.
Because local independent businesses generally keep more of the money spent with them within the community than corporate chains (45% for independent vs. 15% for chains), shopping with local businesses leads to a stronger local economy. This benefits everyone in the
community as strong local economies provide greater access to opportunities and also more funding for local initiatives like parks and recreation, services and infrastructure, health and education. How can ShopBrantford.com help you?
n Get a FREE Business Listing
n Reach New Customers
n Sell Products Online
n Enhance Your Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
n Manage Multiple Platforms
n Promote Events, Sales and Deals
n Create An Online Catalog
n Collect Reviews and Testimonials
n Send Email Newsletters and Grow Your Email List
n Get Found on Google
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“I am excited to learn more about the evolving energy needs of the communities we serve and look forward to working closely with local businesses to pursue innovative and sustainable opportunities.”
Sarah
Sarah
n Advantage Group
n Advantage Vinyl & Design (1994) Inc.
n Arlington Hotel and River’s Edge
n Atomic Spark
n BDO Canada LLP
n Betco Products Inc.
n Body Balance Centre
n Brandam Holdings Limited
n Brant Community Healthcare System Foundation
n Brant Skills Centre
n Brantford Air Centre Limited
n Brantford Apparel
n Brantford Industrial Warehousing Ltd.
n Brantford Regional Real Estate Association
n Brantford Toyota
n BScene
n Career Colleges Ontario
n Carrier Truck Centers Inc. (Head Office)
n Child and Family Services of Grand Erie
n Child and Family Services of Grand Erie Foundation
n The Children’s Safety Village of Brant
n Christians For Israel Canada
n CMBB Bakeware Canada Inc & Pan-Glo Canada Pan Coatings Inc.
n Contact North | Contact Nord
n Core Online Marketing
n CPR Cell Phone Repair (2509405 Ontario Ltd.)
n Creative Circuits Inc.
n Crime Stoppers Brant-Brantford
n D J Recreational Products
n Doug Campbell Construction
n Dudley Lambert LLP
n Fen Industrial Inc.
n Financial Navigators
n Good’s Machine Shop Inc.
n Grand River Council on Aging
n Grand River Counselling
n R. A. Grinton & Associates
n Habitat for Humanity Heartland Ontario Brant-Norfolk Chapter
n Hale Packaging Solutions
n Iron Gate Group
n Isaac Rosebrugh, Mortgage Broker
n Joro Flowers
n Lifestyle Your Way
n The Lions McInnes House
n Magnetsigns Brantford
n McKeough Supply Div. of Emco
n Minotaur Stormwater Services Limited
n Misty’s Kitchens and Design
n NetOptiks (a div. of the Grandbridge Group)
n NPAAMB Indigenous Youth Employment and Training
n Nu-u Float
n OE Canada Inc.
n The Olive Oil Co.
n Ontario Wildlife Removal Inc.
n Queen Street Collision Centre
n RBC Dominion Securities - Wealth Management
n Renway Energy Inc.
n Rotary Club of Brantford
n Royal Lepage Action Realty
n S. C. Johnson and Son, Limited
n Scotlynn
n Silver Fox Production Inc.
n Sleep ‘N Comfort Centre
n St. Joseph’s Lifecare Foundation
n Stebbing Butcher PC o/a McIntosh & Pease
n Tasty Road Trips Inc.
n Towneplace Suites by Marriott Brantford & Conference Centre
n Valhalla Mortgages-Michel St. Pierre
n Willowbridge Community Services Inc.
n Xplore Inc.