September/October 2019 Advocate

S e p t e m b e r | O c t o b e r 2019

Issues Driving the Federal Election

Customized insurance coverage for your small business

Call Cowan for insurance solutions that work for you, and your business.

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advocate September | October 2019 www.greaterkwchamber.com

features Cover Story 16 Pocketbook Issues, Environment Driving Vote

Sean Simpson

editor-in-chief:

Feature 22 2019 Election of Directors Nominating Committee Slate of Candidates Nominee Profiles

design and production

Feature

Campaign Michael Ras

Feature

Allison Mitchell

Art Sinclair editor:

Heather Hutchings M&T Printing Group Photography: Adamski Photography, Snapd KW advertising and sales:

25 What Small Businesses are Watching For in the Coming Federal

Akram Khan- akhan@greaterkwchamber.com Bonnie Frank- bfrank@greaterkwchamber.com Dana Walton- dwalton@greaterkwchamber.com Ian Davis- idavis@greaterkwchamber.com contributing writers:

27 Preparing Businesses and Youth for the Future of Work

Ian McLean, Allison Mitchell, Jenna Petker, Michael Ras, Renata Rusiniak, Sean Simpson, Art Sinclair contributors:

Natalie Hemmerich, Carolyn Marsh advertising and copy deadlines:

September 23, 2019 for November-December 2019 November 15, 2019 for January-February 2020 January 17, 2020 for March-April 2020 March 16, 2020 for May-June 2020 July 17, 2020 for September-October 2020 September 18, 2020 for November-December 2020 subscription and back issue inquiries:

Darlene Jones djones@greaterkwchamber.com submission policy:

Proposals and articles are accepted via mail or email c/o Editor - Advocate. Please do not send originals.

All contributors articles must be accompanied by a head shot in a jpg file and a 40 word author’s bio. publications permit: #40026716 for permissions and reprint requests

Heather Hutchings - hhutchings@greaterkwchamber.com

departments

Message from the Chair

4 We have a Pulse on the Canadian Economy

Renata Rusiniak

Message from the President

New Members Networking

12 Summer Networking Hi-lighting Members

Advocacy

Events

Equalization Payments Art Sinclair

Perspective on Health Care

Recruitment Weekend Showcases K-W Jenna Petker

8 21st Annual Physician

PUBLICATION OF:

10 April 1, 2019 to July 31, 2019

5 An Important Election for Waterloo Region Business

Ian McLean

7 Southwestern Ontario After

PRINTED IN CANADA BY:

18 Where to Book your Holiday Party

20 Mark Your Calendar

Member Notables

32 Chamber Members Achieving Success

postmaster address changes c/o

Advocate - Publications Office 80 Queen Street North, PO Box 2367 Kitchener, Ontario N2H 6L4 519.576.5000 The Advocate is a bi-monthly membership benefit publication of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.

Advertising content and the views expressed herein are those of the contributors and do not constitute endorsement by the Chamber. The Advocate follows the Canadian Code of Advertising Standards (1990), copies are available through the Publisher. The Chamber cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions that may occur and has the right to edit material submitted. The Chamber will not accept advertising with competitor comparison claims and has the right to refuse advertising that is deemed to be false, misleading, or inappropriate.

advocate September | October 2019

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message from the chair

We have a Pulse on the Canadian Economy According to the Conference Board of Canada, the Canadian economy is projected to grow by just 1.4% in 2019 representing a substantial fall from 2.1% growth in 2018. Held back by weakness in the energy sector, a cooler housing market, and lower investment in businesses, the longer-term forecast for Canada’s economy does not project much growth over that of 2019. The impacts of this slower growth are challenging for businesses of all sizes. Tight labour markets are resulting in strong wage growth and there are concerns that consumer spending could fall due to increased household debt. It is in times like this that Chambers of Commerce across the country can truly rise up to meet the challenges faced by businesses today and in the future.

All Part of the Plan The Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce has been guided by a three-year strategic plan that focused on building capacity and advocating for the business community through active engagement of the members and other organizational partnerships. In the current federal economy, the Chamber’s initiatives actively deliver the support that employers and the business community so greatly need. In 2019, the Chamber of Commerce continued to support their strong roster of legacy programs while increasing activity with the Connect the Corridor initiative, ShopKW, and the Student Access Program.

Recognizing the economic strength of the Toronto-Waterloo Corridor, the Chamber remains committed to connecting people to good jobs by pushing the need for reliable, fast and frequent rapid transit. This initiative spurred the creation of Canada’s Innovation Corridor Summit which informs and drives actions that shape the corridor’s future. The Greater KW Chamber has played a supporting role over the past 2 years and looks forward to hosting the Summit in 2020.

In early 2018, the Chamber launched ShopKW.ca (an online platform for interactive “Shop Local” campaigns) to help small businesses scale their sales. Since that time, the program has been recalibrated with a new sales force and initial feedback is proving value for members. The Chamber hopes to see further growth in this offering to help businesses sustainability grow.

The Student Access Program gives businesses that are scaling the ability to engage student talent more easily by connecting

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them with post-secondary institutions. The Chamber has partnered with the University of Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University, and Conestoga College to connect students to small businesses in several low cost or no cost experiential learning opportunities. This helps businesses build capacity while strengthening the student experience.

Positioned for Success While the three-year strategic plan has served the Chamber well, the Board will commence a planning process to deliver the strategy for the next three years. This will be informed

by Canada’s economic state and issues directly impacting the business community in Kitchener-Waterloo. It’s certainly right-timed to take a critical look at the changing landscape all Chambers of Commerce are facing in delivering the highest value to their members.

On a personal note, I am closing out my sixth year as a Board member with the Chamber and my second year as Chair of the Board. I am excited to continue serving as the past Chair and I consider myself lucky to stand alongside Ian and his incredibly hard-working staff who execute all Chamber initiatives to the highest standard of excellence. The Greater Kitchener-Waterloo community plays an important role within Ontario’s economy and arguably within Canada’s too. Being a part of the Greater KW Chamber of Commerce Board has afforded me personal and professional growth that I simply could not have obtained elsewhere. This Chamber has a long legacy of success and is ideally positioned to support the business community in the potentially challenging economic years ahead.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Renata Rusiniak CHAIR, BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Renata Rusiniak manages employee & community engagement at eSentire and believes businesses are set-up for success in Waterloo Region. Renata is an advocate for community giving and lives this value in both her career and personal volunteer commitments.

message from the president

An Important Election for Waterloo Region Business There are a great many issues for Canadian and local businesses to consider as the fall federal election approaches.

Firstly, I continually hear from our local employers about the shortage of talent and thus they cannot find qualified workers. Finding the right people for the available jobs is as relevant to manufacturing as it is for tech companies and every business in between. The Workforce Planning Board of Waterloo Wellington Dufferin recently released a comprehensive report on the health care employment sector and found significant issues with worker shortages and staff turnover.

The shortage of health care workers impacts our Chamber’s efforts to recruit family doctors to address the physician shortage here in Kitchener-Waterloo. Fewer available technicians, registered nurses and other professionals signal systemic problems for potential family doctors and can result in them deciding to locate to other communities to commence their practices.

Another major issue for business is taxation. The last time Canada undertook a major review of its tax system, no one had set foot on the moon. The current system is uncompetitive and cumbersome for personal and business taxpayers.

The tax system should provide businesses with the capital to invest in the technologies and tools needed to adapt to the speed of change and thrive in the new global economy. The system should help attract and retain the best and brightest, drive business investment, unleash innovation, and empower the next generation of change makers. This in turn will provide the tax base to deliver our social safety system.

Given the competitive global environment, all levels of government need to seize the opportunities that are within our control. Simply tinkering with the existing tax system, complete with the antiquated principles that underpin it, will not resolve our tax competitiveness issues. Instead, Canada must create an internationally competitive system of business taxation that rewards entrepreneurship, encourages businesses to invest in the technologies, skills and capacity they need to grow; and attracts capital and highly qualified people from around the world.

The Canadian Chamber of Commerce (CCC) has released its election document – Vote Prosperity. This is a series of recommendations to improve the tax system in Canada. Firstly, we need a Royal Commission to conduct a comprehensive review. The terms of reference should be guided by the principles of tax competitiveness, simplicity, fairness and neutrality.

providing a representative from small business to resolve conflicts with the CRA, and conducting regular reviews to keep the tax system up to date.

With each election, business continues to raise the issues of regulatory burdens and red tape overload. Of all the skills needed to do business in Canada – for large multinational corporations and budding entrepreneurs alike – perhaps the most important is learning to navigate government regulations and bureaucracy. That is not productive nor will it allow us to compete or innovate.

Well –designed and well-implemented regulations are one of the governing tools used to help preserve the well-being of citizens and the environment. For businesses, a stable, rulesbased economy can help maintain market integrity, certainty and protection for investment and business operations.

However, Canada’s complex network of overlapping regulations from all levels of government has created a costly and uncertain environment in which to operate a business.

Onerous compliance costs along with inefficient and unpredictable regulatory processes divert business resources away from more productive activities. This is especially true for small businesses, which lack the specialized and dedicated compliance resources of larger firms.

In Waterloo Region, a heavy focus of the federal campaign will be on infrastructure, particularly transit. The local business sector will be asking candidates from all the major parties for their commitment to two-way, all-day fast and frequent GO train service along the Waterloo Region – Toronto corridor, and will be seeking support from the new federal government to partner with Queen’s Park on this major economic development initiative.

The Chamber will keep our members informed of party positions on the relevant issues through speaker events and candidate forums. Details will be available on the Chamber website as they are finalized.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ian McLean Ian is President and CEO of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce

Other recommendations from the CCC include broadening the tax base to explore more effective policy solutions,

advocate September | October 2019

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advocacy

Southwestern Ontario After Equalization Payments It has been widely reported President Lyndon Johnson once told Canadian Ambassador to the United States Charles Ritchie that Canada screwed them on the Auto Pact.

The pact was an historic agreement signed between Canada and the United States in 1965. Canadian manufacturers received guarantees on production levels and for over twenty years tremendous economic benefits were accorded to Ontario, primarily from the Greater Toronto Area to Windsor.

Often overlooked in the analysis of Ontario manufacturing is the impact of Medicare on investment decisions. Senior executives in Detroit looked across the border at Windsor and calculated the overall cost of Canadian operations versus America where governments did not pay for healthcare coverage.

The recessions of the early 1980s and 90s leveled an impact on the industry but the heavy damage was inflicted immediately before and after the collapse of Lehman Brothers on Wall Street. In early 2009, the three Census Metropolitan Areas with the highest unemployment rates in Canada were Windsor, Waterloo Region, and Niagara Region. The biggest closure was probably Ford in Talbotville, however Martinrea in Kitchener, Navistar in Chatham and Sterling in St. Thomas all deflated the nucleus of the Canadian economy.

Ontario’s problems were magnified in 2009 when Finance Minister Jim Flaherty announced that equalization payments from Ottawa would be directed to Queen’s Park in an attempt to reconcile the damage. Payments exceeded $3 billion by 2012-13. It is probably difficult for most of Ontario to now admit that if revenue from Alberta oil and Saskatchewan potash did not arrive in Ontario through Ottawa, the impact on our public services would have been devastating.

Dominic Barton, the current Chancellor of the University of Waterloo in his then- capacity as Chair of the federal Advisory Council on Economic Growth, released a report in 2017 which has evolved into scripture for the national agri-food sector. Barton was one of the first business leaders outside the agri-food industry to acknowledge domestic standards, research institutions and a skilled workforce position Canada to be a global leader in food production and technology.

Last November, the day after General Motors announced the closure of the Oshawa plant, Maple Leaf Foods promised a new facility in London which will, once in operation, apply the world’s most advanced processing technology. While some communities view the move as a consolidation of existing operations, it is above all an indication that Ontario has the capacity to lead in global food technology.

Ontario farm and rural organizations have stated for many years that farming remains the engine of economic activity in rural Ontario if not the entire province. It is generally assumed that rising housing prices are one of the strongest indicators of economic stability. Anyone looking at the increase in housing costs in rural 519 over the past two to three years will recognize this is not a depressed economic region.

The reality for Canadian federalism is that money moves from one region of the nation to another. Provincial administrations such as Dalton McGuinty in 2008 have attempted to make Ottawa’s fiscal arrangements with their province a priority issue in election campaigns. It did not work that year as the Harper government was re-elected.

We should be grateful for the assistance that arrived a decade ago. Without it we would be in serious trouble.

Ten years after equalization payments started arriving in Ontario there is strong evidence that southwestern Ontario is in major transition. A July 9, 2019 article from the Windsor Star noted that southwestern Ontario has become the “hotspot” for the construction industry in Canada. Five of the top eight municipalities showing the most growth in the value of building permits included Guelph, St. Catharines, Hamilton, Windsor and London.

Increases have been evident in all four major categories – residential, industrial, commercial, and government/ institutional. A City of Windsor official observed that activity is originating from a strong local economy and investors buying into a reasonable market.

For many decades across Ontario, the debate has persisted between which of the province’s two largest economic sectors – agriculture and auto manufacturing – generate higher contributions. Many in the agricultural sector have claimed that with a decade of plant closures, food is Ontario’s undisputed dominant industry.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Art Sinclair Art is Vice President Policy and Advocacy for the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.

advocate September | October 2019

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perspective on health care

21st Annual Physician Recruitment Weekend Showcases K-W Having access to health care professionals is very important to the lives of those who work and live in Kitchener-Waterloo.

Unfortunately, the reality is that many residents still do not have access to a family physician. The objective of the Family Physician Recruitment Program is to recruit family physicians to Kitchener-Waterloo & Woolwich to meet the primary care needs of residents living and working here. One of our key initiatives is our Annual Family/ Emergency Physician Resident Weekend.

Our 21st Annual Physician Resident Weekend will take place November 1– 3rd, 2019. This weekend brings first, second and third year family and emergency medicine residents from all over Ontario along with their partners, allowing us to showcase Kitchener-Waterloo as a great place to live and work. This weekend is planned, organized and hosted by the dedicated members of the Chamber’s Family Physician Liaison Task Force.

This eventful weekend includes touring the family medicine residents through Grand River Hospital and the Medical Centre at The Boardwalk as well as showcasing a couple well known community organizations. Residents will also be introduced to local family physicians and other health care professionals, learning more about the different range of practice opportunities available here in Kitchener-Waterloo.

Emergency medicine residents will be taken on private tours through Grand River Hospital and St. Mary’s Hospital.

These residents will participate in the rest of the weekend’s activities, in hopes of recruiting and retaining new emergency physicians to our hospitals.

Partners/spouses of our visiting residents will be taken on tours of our rural and urban communities including visiting the St. Jacob’s Farmers Market and will have the opportunity to explore employment opportunities. Throughout this weekend, our visitors will discover the region’s diverse, strong, innovative and entrepreneurial spirit.

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This weekend has been well received in previous years by the visiting family medicine residents and their partners and it has been our best recruitment tool over the last 20 years.

We know from past Resident Weekends that this event is a key driver to the success we have had in recruiting family physicians to our community. The residents that will be participating in this year’s weekend will be ready to begin practice in summer 2020-2021.

Our efforts continue throughout the year to recruit new and established family physicians through personal community visits. These tours allow us to explore what the physician is looking for and find a practice opportunity that meets their needs.

Our successes and efforts would not be possible if it wasn’t for our generous corporate, municipal and personal sponsors and volunteers of this program. The Chamber Health Care Resources Council sincerely thanks our partners for their generous and continued support as we continue to strive to eliminate the physician shortage in Kitchener-Waterloo.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jenna Petker Jenna is Physician Recruitment Lead for the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.

new members

April 1, 2019 to July 31, 2019 3 Bay Auto Sales Ltd.

Andre Arseneault Architect

BrickScience: LegoÂŽ Serious PlayÂŽ

3ES Builders Inc.

Arastu International Ltd.

Canadian Student Leadership Association

Automobile Dealers Emil Sabo, Owner 330 Mill St Kitchener, ON N2M 3R7 emil@3bayautosales.ca 3bayautosales.ca Phone: (519) 581-1239 Construction Pradiep Soechitram, CEO 5-420 Erb St W, Suite 432 Waterloo, ON N2L 6K6 3esbuilders@gmail.com 3esibuilders.com Phone: (226) 666-7126

AEC Safety Solutions

Architects Andre Arseneault, Principal Architect 68 Peppler St Waterloo, ON N2J 3C8 andre.d.arseneault@gmail.com andrearseneaultarchitect.ca Phone: (226) 647-6211 Import & Export Services Zia Arastu, Managing Director Waterloo, ON zia.arastu@sanzresources.com sanzresources.com Phone: (519) 589-9038

Atlas Property Group

Safety Consultants & Training Tyler Scott, President 5-420 Erb St W, Suite 232 Waterloo, ON N2L 6K6 tscott@aecinc.ca aecinc.ca Phone: (519) 746-3518

Property Management Marc Koenig, CFO 1 King St N, Waterloo, ON N2J 2W6 info@atlasproperty.com atlasproperty.com Phone: (519) 745-7999

AIL Group of Companies

Authentika Consulting

Manufacturers Cameron McKay, Information Services 640 Waydom Dr Ayr, ON N0B 1E0 info@ail.ca ailgroupofcompanies.com Phone: (519) 622-8600

Align Real Estate Services Inc. Brokerage Real Estate Michelle Duma, Broker of Record 10 Doll Court Kitchener, ON N2E 4H1 alignontario@gmail.com www.align.realtor Phone: (519) 502-5446

Amoona Studio Inc.

Graphic Designers Qian Wang, Creative Director 180 Northfield Dr W, Unit 4 Waterloo, ON N2L 0C7 info@amoona.ca amoona.ca Phone: (226) 336-7996

Amplifon

Hearing Aids Krista Ferguson, Registered Hearing Instrument Specialist 17 Church St W, Elmira, ON N3B 1M2 elmira@amplifon.com amplifon.ca Phone: (519) 669-4174 Fax: (519) 669-2459

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Consultants Susan Cranston, Founder/CEO 657 Montpellier Dr Waterloo, ON N2T 0B3 info@authentikaconsulting.com authentikaconsulting.com Phone: (226) 989-7533

Bella Bruve Interiors

Interior Design or Decorating Services Heather Bruvelaitis, CEO bellabruve@gmail.com bellabruveinteriors.ca Phone: (519) 502-5965

Black Box Consultancy Services Inc. Accounting & Bookkeeping Services Chintan Dixit, Director 420 Linden Dr, Unit 3, Cambridge, ON N3H 0C6 chintan.dixit@blackboxconsultancy.ca blackboxconsultancy.ca Phone: (519) 716-4456

BRCH Social

Coffee Shops Marc Koenig, CFO 1 King St N Waterloo, ON N2J 2W6 info@atlasproperty.com brch.ca Phone: (226) 336-2724

Brian Knetsch

Interior Design or Decorating Services Brian Knetsch, Owner brian_knetsch@yahoo.com Phone: (519) 575-6406

Training & Development Jane Carere, Facilitator 305 Briarmeadow Dr, Unit 5 Kitchener, ON N2A 4K9 janecarere@brickscience.ca brickscience.ca Phone: (519) 896-2340

Charitable & Community Organizations Maddie Campbell, Operations Coordinator 510 Appledale Cr Waterloo, ON N2T 1V9 mcampbell@studentleadership.ca studentleadership.ca Phone: (519) 404-0933

Canadian Vita Corporation Manufacturers Hieu Tran, CEO 585 Erb St W Waterloo, ON N2J 3Z4 canadianvitacorp@gmail.com canadianvita.com Phone: (519) 277-1268

Cannabis Supply Co

Health & Wellness Erik Sadler, Store Manager 1400 Weber St E, Unit A5 Kitchener, ON N2A 3Z8 kitchener@cannabissupplyco.ca cannabissupplyco.ca Phone: (519) 208-5330 Fax: (519) 208-5331

Conestoga Contracting Group Inc. Construction Chaise Ireland, Owner 95 South Field Dr Elmira, ON N3B 2Z2 info@conestogacontracting.com conestogacontracting.com Phone: (519) 568-1403 Fax: (519) 210-0716

Cross Heating & Air Conditioning Ltd. Heating Contractors Brad Cross, Owner bcross@crossheating.com crossheating.com Phone: (519) 492-1920

Desjardins General Insurance Group Insurance Debby Remedios, Regional Sales Director 93 McArthur Cr Guelph, ON N1L 1S4 debby.remedios@desjardins.com desjardinsgeneralinsurance.com Phone: (519) 831-4567

new members

April 1, 2019 to July 31, 2019 Dimi Velikov - RE/MAX Real Estate Centre Inc. Brokerage Real Estate Brokers & Agents Dimi Velikov, Real Estate Sales Representative 720 Westmount Rd E Kitchener, ON N2E 2M6 dimivelikov@remax.net Phone: (519) 741-0950 Fax: (519) 741-0957

EatOils

Cleaning Supplies Bart Van Cromvoirt, CEO 530 Manitou Dr Kitchener, ON N2C 1L3 bartvanc@eatoils.com eatoils.com Phone: (519) 621-8244

Ebb + Flow Creative

Graphic Designers Janet Straker, Creative Director/Designer 5 Edinburgh Rd S, The Junction, Unit 35 Guelph, ON N1G 4Y3 janet@ebbnflow.ca ebbnflow.ca Phone: (226) 749-4041

EMT: Emergency Medical Training Canada First Aid Service Anna Rose, Director info@EMTcanada.ca EMTcanada.ca Phone: (519) 656-0660

FMF Metal Fabrication

Metal Fabricators Mueen Abdullah, President 73 Shoemaker St Kitchener, ON N2E 3B5 mueen@fmfmetal.com www.fmfmetal.com Phone: (519) 748-9141

Forbes Motors Inc

Automobile Dealers Alan Chalmers, VP Cadillac Division 165 Weber St S Waterloo, ON N2J 4A6 alan@forbesmotors.com forbesmotors.com Phone: (519) 742-4463 Fax: (519) 742-4107

Gibson Sound & Vision

Consumer Electronics (Main); Home Automation Systems Jessie Gibson, Manager 25 Columbia St E Waterloo, ON N2J 3J6 info@shopgibson.com shopgibson.com Phone: (519) 746-8030

Haskins Mortgages Mortgage Brokers Brandon Haskins, Mortgage Agent 871 Victoria St N, Suite 223, Kitchener, ON N2B 3S4 BrandonHaskins@invis.ca BrandonHaskins.ca Phone: (519) 590-5555

I Clean Things Inc. Janitorial Services Skye Spinks, General Manager 530 Manitou Dr Kitchener, ON N2C 1L3 skyespinks@icleanthings.com icleanthings.com Phone: (905) 246-0805

IMT Corporation Manufacturers Julie Hacking, Marketing Manager 530 Manitou Dr Kitchener, ON N2C 1L3 marketing@imtcorporation.com imtcorporation.com Phone: (800) 663-2953

Ingenious Solutions (9635939 CANADA Inc.) Security Services & Systems Ron Polania, President 701 Homer Watson Blvd, Unit 45 Kitchener, ON N2C 0B5 info@ingeniousrs.ca www.ingeniousrs.ca Phone: (226) 444-0200 Fax: (226) 444-2308

InkSmith Manufacturers Andrew Brumwell, Director of Sales 44 Gaukel St, Suite 226 Kitchener, ON N2G 4P3 andrew@inksmith.ca inksmith.ca Phone: (226) 747-7447

iPrint Kitchener Printers (Main); Screen Printing David Lamarche, Owner 162 Victoria St S Kitchener, ON N2G 2B5 info@iprintkitchener.com iprintkitchener.com Phone: (519) 279-6463

Jane Dean, Paralegal Legal Services Jane Dean, Paralegal janedean@rogers.com janedeanparalegal.ca Phone: (226) 989-5550

(cont'd on page 14) JDI Cleaning Systems of KW

Cleaning Service-Residential/ Commercial/Industrial Dejan (Dan) Radulovic, Regional Director 354 King St N, Unit 2A Waterloo, ON N2J 2Z2 danradulovic@jdicleaning.ca jdicleaning.com Phone: (519) 884-9600

Jeffrey Cole Insurance and Financial Services - Desjardins Insurance Jeffrey Cole, Insurance Agent 1601 River Rd E, Suite 309 Kitchener, ON N2A 3Y4 jeff@coleinsurance.ca coleinsurance.ca Phone: (519) 896-3232 Fax: (519) 896-7778

JTD Consulting

Management Consultants Marianne Bell, COO 92 King St S, Suite 200 Waterloo, ON N2L 1P5 info@jtdc.ca www.jtdc.ca Phone: (226) 476-5966

Kingsley Management

Property Management Robert Taylor, Leasing/Marketing 2085 Shirley Dr, Unit 201 Kitchener, ON N2B 3X4 rtaylor@kingsleyca.com kingsleyca.com Phone: (519) 576-8278

Kitchener Hypnosis

Health & Wellness Tamara Szwedo, Director 410 Conestogo Rd, Unit 210 Waterloo, ON N2L 4E2 tamara@kitchenerhypnosis.com kitchenerhypnosis.com Phone: (226) 641-0645

MARANT Construction Limited

Construction Justin Lunardo, Director of Operations, Western Canada 51 Breithaupt St, Suite 100 Kitchener, ON N2H 5G5 justin@marant.ca marant.ca Phone: (416) 523-2058

MEC Team Builder Consulting Consultants Michael Cummings, Owner 382912 Side Rd 18 Durham, ON N0G 1R0 info@mecteambuilder.com mecteambuilder.com Phone: (519) 369-8673

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networking

Summer Networking

Akram Khan and a local young professional enjoying the beautiful patio at the Pine Valley Chalet at the Chicopee Tube photo by snapdKW Park

Two attendees snapping a picture for social media at the Heffner Women’s Leadership Luncheon.

Panelists discussing ‘The Key to Keeping Your Talent’ at the Annual Manufacturing Summit

The team at GHD showcasing their exhibit booth at the Chamber’s Annual Energy & Environment Forum

A group of local young professionals enjoying the beautiful view from the patio at the Libro Chamber Young Professionals Summer Social event. photo by snapdKW

Leadercast was once again a popular event this year with attendees arriving right on time at CIGI

Photos by Adamski Photography

Enjoying the beautiful summer weather at the Libro Chamber Young Professionals event photo by snapdKW

Dave Jaworsky, Greg Durocher, Kathryn McGarry, Vic Fedeli, Ian McLean, and Karen Redman snapped a picture at the Provincial Leaders Speakers Series.

Erin Stephenson, Olga Pawluczyk & Carinne ChambersSaini discussed their incredible success stories at the Heffner Women’s Leadership Luncheon

Are You Fully Prepared? ... with a back-up plan for your business in the event of personal illness? ... for a loss of income if hardship strikes? ... with a detailed succession plan?

If not, it’s time to talk. Contact dskcpa.ca 12

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networking

Dave Jaworsky, Andrea Khanjin, Wilf Meston, Karen Redman, Ian McLean, Rod Phillips & Berry Vrbanovic at the Annual Energy & Environment Forum

Meghan Furman MC’d the Heffner Women’s Leadership Luncheon at the Lazaridis School of Business and Economics

We are always so happy to see the auditorium full of attendees eager to learn at Leadercast

New connections being made at the Libro Chamber Young Professionals Summer Social event

photo by snapdKW

A full room at the Annual Manufacturing Summit to discuss recruiting and retaining talent.

The Honourable Vic Fedeli, Ontario’s Minister of Finance, discussing the 2019 Ontario Budget at the Provincial Leaders Speakers Series event.

Photos by Adamski Photography

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advocate September | October 2019

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new members

April 1, 2019 to July 31, 2019 Mr. Mikes Steakhouse Casual Restaurants Ryan Lloyd, Director Franchising rlloyd@rammp.net www.mrmikes.ca Phone: (647) 527-9574

NPAAMB

Employment Training Service Laura St. Amour, Youth Service Officer 151 Frederick St, Suite 501 Kitchener, ON N2H 2M2 yso_kw@npaamb.com www.npaamb.com Phone: (226) 750-8253 Fax: (877) 722-1761

Oraxel Solutions

Telecommunications Abdulqadir Naseeb, Country Manager abdulqader.nizar@oraxel.com www.oraxel.com Phone: (647) 833-9873

Parsons Financial Group

Financial Services Katherine Parsons, Investment & Insurance Advisor 155 Frobisher Dr, Suite F120 Waterloo, ON N2V 2E1 k.parsons@holliswealth.com parsonsfg.com Phone: (519) 746-8448 Fax: (519) 746-8684

Powervest Financial Financial Planning Consultants Matthew Lantz, Financial Advisor 56 Trafalgar Ave Kitchener, ON N2A 1Z7 matt@powervestfinancial.com powervestfinancial.com Phone: (519) 404-3491

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Quantum Greens Inc.

Food & Beverage Erika Siegner, Co-Founder 100 Frobisher Dr, Unit 5A Waterloo, ON N2V 2A1 erika.siegner1@gmail.com quantumgreens.ca Phone: (519) 502-8626

Retire-At-Home Services

Home Health Care Service Michael Wolf, Executive Director mrwolf@retireathome.com retireathomekw.com Phone: (519) 208-2000 Fax: (519) 208-8749

Rose Paving

Paving Contractors Bobby McKillop, 251 Exmouth St Sarnia, ON N7T 5M7 bmckillop@rosepaving.ca www.rosepaving.ca Phone: (519) 464-2700

SalesEvolve Solutions Inc.

Business Consultants John MacLean, Director, Lead Generation 550 Parkside Dr, Unit 8 Waterloo, ON N2L 5V4 info@salesevolve.com www.salesevolve.com Phone: (519) 804-1388

Scott Sobering, Barrister & Solicitor Lawyers Scott Sobering, Lawyer 67 Bridgeport Rd E Waterloo, ON N2J 2K1 scott@scottsobering.com scottsobering.com Phone: (226) 336-9894 Fax: (519) 804-3375

(cont'd on page 23) Sherwin Williams - Highland

Paint Stores Brendon Barber, Market Manager 370 Highland Rd W, Unit 16 Kitchener, ON N2M 5M9 sw8221@sherwin.com sherwin-williams.com Phone: (519) 571-8347 Fax: (519) 571-8348

Smart-Ink Marketing

Marketing Consultants (Main); Graphic Designers;Printers Sherrie Martin, Owner/Founder Wallenstein, ON N0B 2S0 info@smart-inkdesign.com smart-inkdesign.com Phone: (519) 504-7909

Stone Landscapes Inc.

Landscape Supplies Jeff Dillon, Owner 650 Weber St N Waterloo, ON N2V 2N2 info@stonelandscapes.ca stonelandscapes.ca Phone: (519) 888-9992 Fax: (519) 888-9904

Tania Harper Family Law

Lawyers Tania Harper, Lawyer/Principal 67 Bridgeport Rd E, Waterloo, ON N2J 2K1 law@taniaharper.com taniaharper.com Phone: (226) 336-7733 Fax: (519) 804-3372

Teresa Quinlan

Coaching Teresa Quinlan, Coach & Speaker teresa@iqeqtq.com iqeqtq.com Phone: (519) 778-5715

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cover story

Pocketbook Issues, Environment Driving Vote Throughout the summer, the Canadian electorate has remained in a holding pattern. Enjoying the weather and not paying as close attention to politics as they were during the SNC-Lavalin affair, voting intentions have remained quite steady.

Ipsos polling over the summer has shown that the Conservatives under Andrew Scheer have maintained a modest, but significant, six-point lead over the governing Liberals and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The NDP is languishing in Quebec under the leadership of Jagmeet Singh, and the Bloc is looking to pick up some of the seats that the NDP will inevitably lose in that province.

More and more Canadians are turning to Elizabeth May and the Green Party than ever before. Of course, a strong Green Party, siphoning support away from the Liberals and NDP, is Andrew Scheer’s best chance of moving into 24 Sussex Drive in October. A majority government could be won by the Conservatives with well below 40% of the popular vote due to progressive-vote splitting.

The Prime Minister’s approval rating is below 40%, and two-thirds of Canadians want change in Ottawa. But, as we saw in Ontario in 2011 and 2014, a strong desire for change isn’t enough to bring about change. Too many politicians get caught up talking about issues that don’t matter to people, and then are led astray when they confuse a message for a mandate.

The key to winning an election is to differentiate one’s party as the best to lead on the issues that matter most to Canadians. While there are some familiar issues atop the list of those that Canadians say are the most important in determining how they will vote on election day, some are new.

Examining the ten most-important issues driving the vote, the Conservatives lead on four issues (taxes, the economy, immigration and energy), the Liberals lead on one (climate change), the NDP leads on one (poverty/social inequality) and no party is seen as differentiating itself positively on healthcare, affordability, housing and education.

Canadians say the most important issue to them is healthcare, but confess that they don’t believe any of the parties have a particular advantage on this issue, believing that they’re all the same. However, this issue is by far and

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away the most-important issue among those aged 55+, and with older Canadians most likely to actually go out and vote on election day (or, increasingly, through advance polls), parties will continue to do their best to woo these voters.

But how much can parties really differentiate themselves on healthcare policy? Likely not by much, so it probably won’t be a focal point in the campaign.

Number two on the list is affordability and cost of living. From housing, to groceries, to gas, to taxation, and everything in between, Canadians are feeling pinched, and they are looking for relief. Affordability issues are particularly important among women and Millennials. It is likely that a party who offers real solutions to make life more affordable for Canadians could convince these voters to come onside.

Once again, no party is seen as having an advantage here among those who prioritize this issue, creating an opportunity for any party to step up to the plate and offer bold solutions to Canadians’ pocketbook challenges.

The third most-important issue driving Canadian voters is taxation. A perennial that is always near the top of the list, the Conservatives are chosen as the party that is best able to deal with taxation. Predictably, this issue is more important to men than women, but also to those in Generation X – who are most likely to have a mortgage, kids, aging parents, and generally feeling the financial squeeze. While the Conservatives will tout their advantage on this issue, the other parties will attempt to focus the discussion on other issues where they have a bigger advantage.

Fourth – and new to the top of the charts – is climate change. Prioritizing environmental policies used to be a niche issue with pockets of support among younger voters, the university educated, hippies in British Columbia, and those who support left-wing parties. There is now a general consensus building in Canada that this is a problem that our leaders need to address. In other words, age, gender, education and region are no longer the prime determinants of whether one prioritizes climate change as an issue that needs to be addressed.

This is going to be the wild-card issue for the campaign. It’s a relatively new issue, and while Canadians have a general inclination of where the parties stand on the issues, all parties have yet to release the nitty-gritty details of their policies.

And the policies will differ – significantly.

cover story

The Liberals want to tax to encourage behaviour change.

But a tax flies in the face of those who say that affordability (#2 issue) and taxation (#3 issue) are driving their vote. The Conservatives will say they have policies that will invoke real change to combat climate change, but they’ll ultimately be seen as putting economic interests ahead of the environment.

And here you have a wedge issue – two parties with a differentiated position on either side of a key election issue.

It is clear why the Tories lead in the polls heading into the official election period. They lead on more of the important issues than the other parties do. The Liberals will talk about climate change and hope that they are not outflanked by the Green Party on this file. In order to make up some ground against the Tories, the Liberals will need to stake out a differentiating position on the two major issues still up for grabs: affordability/cost of living and housing.

Among those who prioritize this issue, the Liberals currently have a huge lead over the other traditional parties as the one best able to deal with climate change. But the Green Party isn’t far behind. Given the Liberal lead, however, and their desire to exploit it, the Grits will likely put this issue front and centre. They will own it, and it will put the Conservatives in a difficult place. The Conservatives, of course, will probably pivot and talk about how a new tax will only put more pressure on affordability concerns in Canada.

Sean Simpson will be giving a speech at the Confederation Club luncheon in Kitchener on September 19, 2019, where he will talk about Ipsos’ federal election polling and what the numbers are saying. Tickets can be purchased at www. confederationclub.ca

Rounding out the top-five issues of the campaign is the economy. While economists continue to tell Canadians that things are going well – markets are growing, unemployment rates are low, inflation is under control, job growth is steady – Ipsos polling shows that the feeling among the average Canadian is that things are not great, and that they’ve been tough since the Great Recession. Only roughly 60% of Canadians think the economy is in good shape; before the Great Recession the norm was in the 80% range. While the Prime Minister might be inclined to talk about the economy as a strength, that argument might fall on deaf ears and make him seem out of touch. Economic management is seen as a strength for the Tories.

In order, the sixth through tenth strongest drivers of vote choice are: housing affordability and availability (no party has an advantage), immigration (Conservative advantage), education (no party has an advantage), poverty / social inequality (slight NDP advantage), and energy (pipelines, gas prices, etc.) (strong Conservative advantage).

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sean Simpson Sean Simpson is Vice President of Ipsos Public Affairs, where he leads its publicopinion polling specialization and relationship with Global News. He holds a Master’s Degree in Political Science from Wilfrid Laurier University, and resides in Kitchener.

advocate September | October 2019

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hi-lighting members

Where to Book your Holiday Party B@themuseum

Tired of the same old, same old? B-unique and choose our cozy venue located downtown Kitchener. Holiday gatherings from 10 to 100 guests - no set menu , customize to your preferences and your budget. Book your Holiday party here and B-impressed !.

Bingemans

Bingemans is Waterloo Region’s leader in entertainment and hospitality. Bingemans is a multi-use park, conference, and event grounds. Bingemans offers the most extensive catering services at our centrally located conference centre, or offsite at one of our unique boutique venues.

Borealis Grille & Bar

At Borealis we feature locally sourced and prepared foods, wines and beers because we genuinely believe “Local Tastes Way Better”.

We offer a casual dining experience with comfortable dining rooms and a relaxed bar. Our private rooms can accommodate groups from 4 to 120.

Cambridge Hotel and Conference Centre

As a small business you want to reward your staff with an awesome Christmas party. Check out our Jingle and Mingle Multi-business Holiday Party. This keeps costs down and allows you to celebrate in a relaxed atmosphere with other business professionals. We will be offering two dates this year, November 22, 2019 and January 11, 2020.

Concordia Club

10 King St W, Kitchener (519) 742-2337 (BEER) bthemuseum@gmail.com

Bingemans

425 Bingemans Centre Drive Kitchener (519) 744 – 1555 sales@bingemans.com

Borealis Grille & Bar

4336 King Street East Kitchener (519) 219-9007 jess.borealis@gmail.com www.borealisgrille.ca

Cambridge Hotel and Conference Centre

700 Hespeler Rd, Cambridge (519) 622-1505 ext. 7772 www.cambridgehotel.ca

Concordia Club

Plan your employee holiday gathering with us! Our private rooms seat 20 - 400 as well as our Schenke restaurant which boasts our authentic German menu and warm feeling of “Gemuetlichkeit”.

We can accommodate all your needs. Book early as space may be limited.

429 Ottawa Street South, Kitchener (519) 745-5617 mail@concordiaclub.ca www.concordiaclub.caa

Delta Waterloo

Delta Waterloo

Celebrate the season with your colleagues at Delta Waterloo. Our unique venue offers rooms for groups large or small. Exceptional food crafted from local ingredients through our Holiday or custom menus. Our impeccable service will leave your guests with lasting memories.

Descendants Beer & Beverage Co. At Descendants we can help you execute a fun, relaxed and unique holiday party! We offer a venue for groups of 10-135 guests in our functioning Ontario Craft Brewery with both private and semi-private booking options. We serve excellent craft beer as well as cider, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages and offer a fully customizable catering menu. Ask about adding Trivia or Musical Bingo to your booking.

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B@themuseum Ltd

WWW.GREATERKWCHAMBER.COM

110 Erb Street West Waterloo (519) 514-0404 wat.sales.sm@deltahotels.com marriott.com/hotels/travel/ ykfdw-delta-hotels-waterloo/

Descendants Beer & Beverage Co.

319 Victoria Street North Kitchener (226) 241-3700 info@descendantsbeer.com www.descendantsbeer.com

hi-lighting members

Golfplay Inc.

4500 King St. E, Unit 6 Kitchener Steve Harris (519) 650.4242 steve.harris@golfplay.ca www.golfplay.ca

Hacienda Sarria

1254 Union Street Kitchener (519) 585-1681 reservations@haciendasarria.com www.haciendasarria.com

Proof Kitchen & Lounge

Golfplay Inc. Take a swing at some serious fun for this year’s holiday party! Golfplay has several different package options that are great for non-golfers and experienced golfers alike. You’ll have a ball while indulging in our famous stone oven pizza, upscale menu, craft beer, wine and more.

We’re the perfect venue for hosting events and parties of up to 100 people!

Hacienda Sarria Celebrate the holidays with Hacienda Sarria. Whether it’s a casual cocktail reception or formal soirée, our in-house Event Planners will take care of every last detail. Relax and enjoy the holiday season in Old World Elegance. Now taking lunch & dinner reservations for 2019 & 2020.

Proof Kitchen & Lounge

110 Erb Street West Waterloo proofwaterloo.com (519) 208-3333

A theory can be proven by experiment. Don’t experiment with your event, book Proof and take the praise! Designed to delight the senses, our private and semi-private rooms for groups of 10-50 are the perfect backdrop to any occasion. Let us take the work out of your work event.

St. George Banquet Hall | Conference & Events Centre

St. George Banquet Hall | Conference & Events Centre

St George Banquet Hall 665 King Street North, Waterloo (519) 884-0311 ext. 1 gm@stgeorgehall.com www.stgeorgehall.com

THE STUDIO KITCHEN

6572 Wellington County Road 34 Cambridge (519) 954-8854 info@chefdtv.com ChefDtv.com

Vivo Pizza & Pasta

St. George’s elegant ambiance, exceptional service and gourmet food will capture your heart and arouse your senses. Our variety of rooms provide seating for 50-800 guests. As the region’s leader for hosting various events from multi-ethnic weddings, conferences and Christmas parties we effortlessly transform to suit all your social and business needs.

THE STUDIO KITCHEN Is a one of a kind dining experience in the country. Enjoy chef’s dinners, theme nights or create your own event/meeting space on this beautiful property. Easy access from Kitchener, Cambridge, Guelph and Waterloo.

Vivo Pizza & Pasta

655 Parkside Drive Waterloo (519) 781-8486 Vivopizzapasta.ca

Vivo prides itself on the food we serve. We work with numerous chefs from all across the world who have a passionate love for food, cooking, and the Italian cuisine. We are constantly looking to provide our guests with an experience that is extensive, and second to none.

An experience like no other when it comes to Italian cuisine.

Wildcraft

Wildcraft

425 King St North Waterloo (519) 885-0117 jvanvroenhoven@charcoalgroup.ca www.wildcraft.ca

Host your holiday celebration in one of our newly renovated private or semi-private rooms. Enjoy passionately crafted food, artful inspired cocktails and an endless stream of premium beers and wine, all served by our Chamber of Commerce award winning hospitality professionals.

GRILL + LONG BAR

advocate September | October 2019

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events

Mark Your Calendar September 12th

September 24th

Libro Chamber Young Professionals Eat Your Art Out

Annual General Meeting

5:30pm – 7:30pm Location: Homer Watson House & Gallery Member Ticket $10 ∙ Future Member $15 The season kick-off for the Libro Chamber Young Professionals will be hosted

by Homer Watson House & Gallery. Enjoy the company of other young professionals in the Region with complimentary appetizers, a bar and a historic venue to discover.

4:00pm – 6:00pm Location: University of Waterloo, Engineering 7 (E7) Building Complimentary The 2019 Annual General Meeting will introduce the newly appointed Board of Directors. Join us in congratulating them and celebrating the work that has been done in the past year.

Event Sponsors:

Title Sponsor:

September 19th Inspiring Women Event 8:00am – 4:00pm Location: Bingemans, Marshall Hall Tickets $150 • Table of 8 $1,100 Exhibitor Booth $700 This is the largest event in the area designed to celebrate women in business, entrepreneurship, and corporate leadership. The day features dynamic speakers, exhibitors, networking opportunities, and our Dress for Success Drive. This year’s focus is on “Health, Wellness, and the Art of Resiliency”, featuring several empowering and inspirational stories from: Panelist: Binh Tam Le, UX Researcher at Google Panelist: Jessica Kuepfer, Public Relations Manager at Home Hardware Stores Ltd. Panelist: Katrina Burch, Team Lead for Mental Health Promotion and Education with the Canadian Mental Health Association Waterloo Wellington Speaker: Courtney Fonseca, Founder & Mother Hustlr at Hustl & Flow Speaker: Samantha Brookes, CEO & Founder of Mortgages of Canada and Author of “Cash Is Queen” Keynote: Serena Ryder, JUNO Award-Winning Musician & Mental Health Advocate

October 3rd Jay Fencing Business After 5 5:00pm – 7:00pm Location: McIntyre Group Complimentary for Chamber Members Future Member $10 • Exhibitor Booth $60 The season opener of the Jay Fencing Business After 5 series will be hosted

by McIntyre Group! Bring a coworker and do some networking with other businesses in the Region.

Title Sponsor: Gold Sponsor: Media Sponsors:

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Print Sponsor: PRINT

Visit us online at www.LMICanada.com and www.erb-erb.com

· Integrity · Expertise · Commitment ·

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events

Mark Your Calendar October 16th

October 22nd

Business Expo

Libro Chamber Young Professionals Vino at Vivo’s

2:00pm – 7:00pm Location: Bingemans, Ballroom & Marshall Hall Complimentary Admission 8’ x 8’ Exhibitor Booth $335 • 10’ x 10’ Exhibitor Booth $355

5:30pm – 7:30pm Location: Vivo’s Pizza & Pasta Member Ticket $10 ∙ Future Member $15

The Business Expo is the largest trade show in the Region which features exhibitors from all industries. In partnership with the Cambridge and Guelph Chambers, this event offers awesome food vendors, networking opportunities and exciting exhibitors.

The second event in the Libro Chamber Young Professionals will be hosted by Vivo’s Pizza & Pasta. Enjoy some delicious and authentic Italian food, with the opportunity to network with some of the Region’s young professionals.

Title Sponsor:

October 17th

October 28th

Chamberfest

100 Mile Feast

6:00pm – 9:00pm Location: Concordia Club, Main Hall Member Ticket $55 ∙ Future Member Ticket $65 The Annual Chamberfest is returning for its 9th year, on October 17th.This fun-filled night brings the community together for an evening of networking and spirit of Gemuetlichkeit!

6:00pm – 10:00pm Location: Delta Waterloo Tickets $150 • Table of 10 $1,500

Title Sponsor:

Title Sponsor:

Small Business Partner:

Silver Sponsor: Bronze Sponsors: Design Sponsor: Media Sponsor:

Print Sponsor: &

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Event Sponsor:

Gold Sponsor:

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Bronze Sponsor:

This year’s 100 Mile Feast will feature Tastes of Thailand. Don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to indulge in Thai-inspired dishes prepared by some of Waterloo Region’s top chefs, with beverage pairings to accompany each course. Come hungry!

PRINT

advocate September | October 2019

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feature

2019 Election of Directors Nominating Committee’s Slate of Candidates Nominee Profiles Wendi Campbell is the Chief Executive Officer at The Food Bank of Waterloo Region. One of Canada’s largest food banks, The Food Bank of Waterloo Region distributes over 5 million pounds of food annually to community food programs within Waterloo Region and South Western Ontario.

Wendi works with Networks of community food programs to enhance their service delivery capacity to ensure that the needs of the economically disadvantaged are being met. Wendi’s passion for collaborative partnerships has resulted in significant change, outcomes & community impact not only in Waterloo Region but across Canada.

WENDI CAMPBELL, MBA Chief Executive Officer The Food Bank of Waterloo Region

Wendi is a graduate of the University of Waterloo (BA ’93) and Wilfrid Laurier University (MBA ‘08). Wendi has worked for 25 years in the not for profit sector. Her experience includes fundraising, program development, development and management of volunteer programs, marketing, communications, policy development and human resource administration.

Brad has been in public accounting for the past 9 years. He graduated from Conestoga College in 2010 and immediately started working for Rodney N. Goetz, Professional Corporation. He achieved his CGA designation in 2013 and in December 2018 he and Rod formed Goetz and Dunbar Professional Corporation.

Goetz and Dunbar, P.C. has built a reputation in the community for providing excellent customer service to go along with over 40 years of experience. They primarily service small to medium sized corporations and personal tax clients. The services they provide range from individual and corporate tax returns, to bookkeeping and controllership, to tax planning and estate returns.

When Brad is not busy at work, he spends the majority of his time at home with his wife and their 1-year old son.

BRAD DUNBAR Vice President of Goetz & Dunbar Professional Corporation Richard Jaques is the Regional President Ontario for BMO Financial Group. He oversees the bank's retail distribution network and team of professionals across the Province outside the city of Toronto Richard has over 30 years of leadership and finance experience across Canada. He joined the company in 1987 and has held a number executive positions in sales, talent management and leadership helping to lead strategy execution and growth objectives. He is an active and passionate member of the community participating in a number of board roles and community initiatives to support development and growth of the communities he lives and works in. He is a strong believer in advocacy of our business community also, serving on several chambers across the province as well as the Manitoba provincial chamber.

RICHARD JAQUES Regional President Ontario BMO Bank of Montreal

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Richard earned his MBA from Dalhousie University and undergrad work at the University of Windsor, as well as Certified Financial Planner designation.

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new members

April 1, 2019 to July 31, 2019 The CLEMMER Group

Management Consultants Heather Clemmer, Secretary-Treasurer 476 Mill Park Dr Kitchener, ON N2P 1Y9 service@clemmergroup.com clemmergroup.com Phone: (519) 748-1044 (519) 748-5813

The Mortgage Group

Mortgage Brokers Carie Lonsbury, Mortgage Agent carie.lonsbury@mortgagegroup.com carie.tmgbroker.com Phone: (519) 570-8778 Fax: (855) 762-1104

The Shops at Highland and Westmount

Property Management Michelle DesRosiers, Vice President 525, 563 and 491 Highland Rd W, Kitchener, ON N2M 5K1 shopsathighland@rogers.com Phone: (905) 472-7732 Fax: (365) 509-2021

The Sunshine Foundation of Canada

Charitable & Community Organizations Christine Freeman, Manager, Partnerships & Philanthropy 300 Wellington St, Unit 100 London, ON N6B 2L5 christine.freeman@sunshine.ca www.sunshine.ca Phone: (519) 642-0990 Fax: (519) 642-1201

The Win-Loss Agency

Market Research Charles Topping, Principal Analyst contact@win-loss.agency win-loss.agency Phone: (226) 444-0605

Twin City Pizza

Pizza Tom Toma, Owner 500 Glen Forrest Blvd, Unit 1 Waterloo, ON N2L 5G4 twincitypie@yahoo.com twincitypizza.ca Phone: (519) 885-8885

cont’d from page 14 Vivo Pizza & Pasta

Restaurants Vincenzo Rispoli, Partner 655 Parkside Dr Waterloo, ON N2L 5E7 vivopizzapasta.ca Phone: (519) 781-8486

Wayne Hussey Consulting Inc. Consultants Daniel Hussey, Managing Partner 16 Richmond Ave Kitchener, ON N2G 0A4 daniel@whconsultinginc.com www.waynehussey.com Phone: (226) 747-7878

WSP Canada Inc.

Engineers Kyle Bossie, Manager, Municipal Infrastructure, Kitchener 582 Lancaster St W Kitchener, ON N2K 1M3 Web: http://wsp.com Phone: (519) 743-8778

Canada's Innovation Corridor Business Council Over 2 years ago, the new President of the Toronto Region Board of Trade (TRBOT) met with Ian to discuss ways to work closer together.

This was the seed of which Canada's Innovation Corridor working group was formed. This group includes the CEO's of the Chambers and Boards of Trade from: Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Guelph, Cambridge, Halton Hills, Milton, Hamilton and Greater Kitchener Waterloo.

We were fortunate to have this group active March 2017 when the Federal Government announced the Super Cluster Innovation fund. Our Innovation Corridor group was able to spring into action to convene business, academic and community partners from Toronto right through the Region of Waterloo.

Our Innovation Corridor working group continues our other work on Policy and Infrastructure advocacy that is so critical for our Toronto-Waterloo Corridor to thrive and grow.

We have work in the field or completed on issues ranging from Immigration, Movement of Goods and Services, Transit, Transportation, and All Day 2 Way Go Service.

The work plan is heavy and important but this Innovation Corridor Working Group is strong and up to the task. Learn more online at: thecorridor.ca Thanks to the Greater KW Chamber partners that sponsor our efforts on this important initiative.

advocate September | October 2019

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RBC Dominion Securities Inc.

RBC Dominion Securities Waterloo is hiring new Investment Advisors RBC Dominion Securities in Waterloo is seeking motivated individuals for a fulfilling career in the wealth management industry.

If you’re looking for the support you need to build a successful career, RBC Dominion Securities offers several advantages:

● ● ● ●

Strength and stability Independence with support Powerful tools and technology Top-calibre training

With an independent focus that encourages and rewards initiative, industry-leading investment and

wealth management support, and the backing of Canada’s largest financial institution, RBC Dominion Securities is the premier choice for investment professionals who want to build a successful wealth management practice.

For more details, please contact Vice-President and Branch Manager Mark Hodson at 519-747-7790 or mark.hodson@rbc.com.

We value diversity in the workplace, are committed to Employment Equity and will provide reasonable workplace accommodation to applicants with disabilities. RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ®Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. ©2017 RBC Dominion Securities Inc. All rights reserved. 17_90561_001

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feature

What Small Businesses are Watching For in the Coming Federal Campaign Credit unions have a unique vantage point into what small business across Ontario cares about and into what is keeping entrepreneurs up at night by virtue of the personal relationships they have with their Members. At Meridian, we know the unique stories of each of our 25,000 small business members and the different pressures and concerns that are driving them. The common themes we hear from them and from the Chambers of Commerce that we support across Ontario paints a picture that our federal party leaders would be smart to pay attention to as they set out on the campaign trail this Fall.

Every day, we hear from businesses that are impacted by government policy and from entrepreneurs who are looking to the federal government to set the right tone for a positive investment climate.

A few of our Members might argue about what the appropriate and competitive levels of taxation should be, but the consensus is that tax rates and our tax code, of course, need to be globally competitive.

Others may argue about priorities in trade policy to open markets to Canadian businesses’ goods and services, but nearly all our business Members welcome increased access to new markets and many value the help from our federal government in developing those markets. If anything, they would like to see even more trade agreements reached, and for these trade relationships with new markets to accelerate.

In a global market, our small business Members know that the world isn’t standing still and the competitive race is a constant one. Business cannot rest, and neither should government.

There is not a business leader we deal with who doesn’t lament the wasted time they spend in traffic. They know that infrastructure investments to keep goods and people moving are critical. Equally, they know that investments in the basic infrastructure our communities need to grow – water, waste water, schools, broadband internet, recreation facilities, parks – are equally critical to the vitality of our communities.

While on the topic of infrastructure, businesses are increasingly coming to realize that investments to upgrade the resilience of our infrastructure to deal with extreme weather, flooding and the impacts of climate change are important public expenditures and require federal leadership.

Entrepreneurs – no matter the business they are in – regularly lament the skills gaps that exist in the workforce and look to our federal leaders for immigration policy and investments in skills training that meet these ever-evolving needs.

On the topic of immigration, in dealing with our own small business Members, it is clear that many excellent entrepreneurs are coming to Canada to take advantage of our positive business climate and growing markets. We should welcome even more.

The affordability and availability of housing is not just a problem for people looking for a house or a condo in a heated market. These issues impact a business’ ability to attract talent and employ workers who aren’t forced to commute two hours a day. Government policy needs to focus on both the supply crunch, particularly the “missing middle” of housing, as well as those fiscal and financial policies that impact the cost of a mortgage or rent.

There is no doubt that this coming federal election – like all elections – will have important debates about a wide range of issues, but what is most important to business, especially small business, is that candidates focus attention on these issues that contribute to the health and vitality of our economy.

One final word: in the coming election campaign, it is critical that small business leaders and entrepreneurs raise their voice and make their views heard. Take a moment to meet your local candidates. Inform yourselves on the issues and platforms. Ask questions of the candidates; challenge them.

Most importantly, be sure to vote!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Michael Ras Michael is Director of Government & Stakeholder Relations with Meridian Credit Union where he represents the public policy interests of Meridian and its 320,000 Members to all three levels of government

advocate September | October 2019

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feature

Preparing Businesses and Youth for the Future of Work At the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce (GKWCC), like many Chambers around the country, we consistently hear from the business community that the attraction and retention of talent is one of the top challenges that businesses face. Businesses need people with appropriate skills and experience in order to grow and succeed.

With the rapid change that businesses are seeing, the skills that they require their employees to have are also changing.

Many people are finding that they need to upskill in order to continue their current career path or reskill to find a new career path; the need to upskill and reskill will only become more prevalent in the coming years with the changes that the future of work will bring.

The Government of Canada has taken steps to help ensure that the workforce has the skills that businesses need through the creation of the Future Skills Centre and the investment in helping young people prepare for their careers.

In February 2019, the Government of Canada announced the creation of The Future Skills Centre and the Future Skills Council. The Future Skills Centre was created to be a national centre for research and collaboration that will help Canadians prepare for the changing labour market.

With the 2019 Federal Budget, the Government of Canada provided significant investment to increase the number of work-integrated learning (WIL) opportunities for postsecondary students. WIL is the process of hands-on learning that enables a student to integrate their experience of working with an industry partner with the curriculum of their program. The investments outlined in the 2019 budget include: •

$631.2 million is being invested over five years to expand the Student Work Placement Program (SWPP) for providing wage subsidies to businesses who hire students for WIL opportunities including co-op work terms and internships. This investment will result is 20,000 WIL opportunities.

•

$150 million is being allocated over four years to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to create partnerships with businesses to create 20,000 WIL opportunities per year.

•

$17 million is being allocated over three years to support the Business/Higher Education Roundtable’s work to organize partners such as post-secondary schools, businesses, and community organizations to create 44,000 WIL opportunities.

Locally, the GKWCC has been connecting small businesses to post-secondary student talent through our Access Student Talent program since May 2018. The initiative was piloted in collaboration with Conestoga College, the University of Waterloo, and Wilfrid Laurier University and funded in part by the Government of Ontario. The Chamber is excited to host this pilot because we know that there are many small businesses who can benefit from engaging with students and that students benefit from developing valuable skills and experience to better prepare them for their careers.

With the help of our educational partners, we are educating small businesses about working with students, outlining the options that businesses have for working with students, and connecting businesses to the appropriate post-secondary school(s).

The feedback on the Access Student Talent initiative from the small business community has been overwhelmingly positive. Small business owners are interested in learning how they can work with students and we have connected many businesses with our educational partners. As a result, business owners are seeing the benefit of what students can bring to their business and students are developing the skills and experience that businesses need.

If you are interested in exploring whether working with a student is a fit for your business, please contact Allison Mitchell, Experiential Learning Outreach, Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce at amitchell@ greaterkwchamber.com.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Allison Mitchell Allison Mitchell is the Experiential Learning Outreach Coordinator with the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce and leads the Chamber’s Access Student Talent initiative.

advocate September | October 2019

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CATERING

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Member Notables

Member Notables Lisa LaFlamme Named Officer of the Order of Canada Kitchener native and CTV News’ Chief News Anchor Lisa LaFlamme was recently named an Officer of the Order of Canada. Governor General Julie Payette recognized her for contributions to journalism and news broadcasting as well as her support and promotion of human rights.

Ms. LaFlamme, who attended St. Daniel Elementary School, St. Mary’s High School and the University of Ottawa, commenced her career at CKCO in 1989. In addition to multiple awards for broadcasting and journalism over her career, she received an honorary doctorate from her alma mater and an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Windsor.

Lisa replaced Stratford, Ontario native Lloyd Robertson as chief anchor on CTV in 2010. She provided the forward in the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce publication Country Roots – Global Reach – Images of Waterloo Region.

Dan Robert joins Community Foundation as Director, Philanthropy Dan Robert was recently appointed as Director, Philanthropy at the Kitchener Waterloo Community Foundation (KWCF).

Dan has spent his entire 15-year career working in the charitable sector, primarily in Waterloo Region. For the past eleven years he has been at Wilfrid Laurier University, most recently as the Associate Director, Development, Athletics and Wellness.

Dan serves on the Board of Governors at WLU and is an executive member of their Management Group. He holds an Honours Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Laurier where he served as President & CEO of the Students’ Union in 2005.

New Conestoga Campus to open in Downtown Kitchener In late May Kitchener Mayor Berry Vrbanovic and Conestoga College President John Tibbits announced that the college will be opening a new 82,000 square foot campus in Downtown Kitchener. The new campus inside Market Square is scheduled for a January 2020 opening, initially delivering business programming for approximately 1,000 students.

Additional programming will be introduced in subsequent phases as the campus becomes more established, attracting more students who will further contribute to the city’s diversity and cultural vibrancy.

Market Square was among eight commercial properties across Waterloo Region purchased in 2017 by real estate and investment management firm Europro. In a college news release, the firm indicated they are excited to be working with Conestoga on this important project for downtown Kitchener.

Traces Screen Printing – 35 years of Service Traces Screen Printing is a textile screen printer, embroiderer and promotional products supplier. Since 1985 the firm has won numerous awards for printing, corporate citizenship, environmental sustainability, and customer service.

Traces have been a Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce member and Peer-toPeer group participant for many years, and thanks the organization for their support.

On the occasion of 35 years of service, owner Tracey Johnston-Aldworth would also like to thank all their customers, suppliers and dedicated staff. The company is a Living Wage employer and offers profit sharing and a trip incentive.

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Member Notables

Member Notables HHD Imports Celebrates 40 Years Plus Special Recognition Founded in 1979 by Harry and Ingrid Drung, HHD Imports Inc. based in Waterloo is an import agency representing premium wine, beer and spirit suppliers from 17 countries around the world.

Celebrating 40 years in business, they work with all provincial Liquor Control Boards across Canada sourcing alcoholic beverages for distribution and retail sales in their respective jurisdictions. At their recent Annual Awards Gala, Drinks Ontario, the association representing members of the alcohol beverage industry in Ontario, awarded Harry Drung its Achievement Award in recognition of his contribution to enhancing the profile of wine, spirits and beer in the provincial marketplace.

Harry and Ingrid are shown here with Jim Lisser, Executive Director of Drinks Ontario.

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Helping Canadian companies make smooth transitions into the promising U.S. market. That’s The Phillips Lytle Way. Our office in Canada puts U.S. legal expertise right at your doorstep. From licensing agreements, intellectual property, venture capital and corporate formation to immigration, customs, trade and export controls.

Let the Phillips Lytle team get moving on your expansion into the U.S.

Visit us at PhillipsLytle.com/CanadianCrossBorder THE COMMUNITECH HUB, 151 CHARLES ST. WEST, THE TANNERY, KITCHENER, ONTARIO, N2G 1H6 (519) 570-480O Prior results do not guarantee a future or similar outcome. Registered foreign legal consultants practicing U.S. law. Š 2019 Phillips Lytle LLP

advocate September | October 2019

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