Barrie Shop Local CFIB 2021

PRESENTING SPONSOR

Support Local Business Every Day Proudly produced by:

These are just some of the local businesses that make Barrie a great place to live and they need your support.

Shopping local makes a difference!

We are here for you, Barrie!

794-Junk 9ROUND Kickbox Fitness ABC Consultants Aboda Decor Absolute Automotive Specialties Act Now Legal Services Aligned Minds Hypnosis All Thats Dance Bark Busters Barrie Mitsubishi Barrie Olive Oil Co. Barrie Paintball Barrie Tent & Awning Barrie Vacuums Plus Barrie Welding & Machine The Barrieview Bill Le Boeuf Jewellers Bliss Beneath Bradley Homes Canada Xiao Mi Feng Inc Cartridge Specialties

City of Barrie Comfy Care Haven Consumers Tire Dale Gallant - Rainbow Home Team Dianne Skinner Downtown Barrie B.I.A. Dupey’s Pets Eco Refinishers Expedia Cruise Ship Centers Farida Jones - Royal Lepage Flashover Window Fashions Foster Lawn & Garden Fox’s Bakery & Deli Georgian Home Confort Giant Carpet Flooring Centre Glow Day Spa Halibut House Barrie Impact Healthcare Instant Imprints Ital Paving Kempenfelt Windows & Doors

Lang Wellness Centre Laura Vivian Insurance & Financial La-Z-Boy Furniture Gallery Legacy Funeral & Cremation Liberty North Liquidation Nation LivingLivita Metzger’s Studio Mike The Mattress Guy Modo Yoga Molly Maid Barrie Motta Lash House MP John Brassard Murray Brothers Performance Natural Balance Day Spa O Porto BBQ Pampered Nails By Ping Park Place Co-Ownership Prime Pools Quinn Rehabilitation

13 | Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021

SPECIAL EDITION | SAVE THIS SECTION TO SHOP LOCAL

in partnership with

Renu U Aesthetics Resolution Physiotherapy & IMS Right at Home Realty Inc. , Brokerage - Barrie Robert’s Complete Auto Care Royal Victoria Hospital Sigrid’s Cafe’ & Bakery Simcoe Chem Dry Simcoe IT Solutions Inc. Simcoe Knee and Shoulder Clinic Skinsational Steve Peacock Auto & Collision Tara Authentic Indian Cuisine The Corner Market The Party Store Peggy Hill Group Realty | RE/MAX Hallmark Top Dog K9 Services Turf King Vin Bon Barrie White Cedar Dental

simcoe.com

photos: Louise Jones

Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 14

Support is Everything

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS – OPINION

CITY READY TO HELP BUSINESS OWNERS 'WE KNOW YOU'RE OVERWHELMED,' SAYS MAYOR JEFF LEHMAN It's been a tough year for Barrie businesses, organizations and residents, and our road to recovery is only just beginning.

To our businesses: reach out to us for support. We know you're overwhelmed, and the City has a dedicated team tasked with connecting you to financial help and supporting you in applying for grants and subsidies.

Get in touch with someone at the Small Business Centre by phone at 705-720-2445, or

LEHMAN Column

by email at smallbusiness@barrie.ca.

We want to do everything we can to connect you to the supports available and help you with the process of applying. To learn more about financial assistance for businesses during the pandemic, visit barrie.ca/SupportForBusiness.

To our residents: our businesses need you right now. Take advantage of the incredible restaurants, re-

tailers, services, producers, and all the other businesses we have right in our backyard, by shopping and supporting local.

Now, more than ever before, we need to use our purchasing power to support Barrie businesses.

The City remains committed to supporting our economy. Our economic recovery plan provided and continues to provide immediate actions and a longer-term road map for the shifting needs of Barrie businesses, both during and beyond COVID-19.

You can learn more at investbarrie.ca.

As we navigate through these uncertain times together, we've seen just how resilient and strong our community is.

We've come so far, and there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Stay strong, Barrie.

Jeff Lehman is Mayor of the City of Barrie. Contact him at officeofthemayor@barrie.ca.

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15 | Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021

WE LOVE LOCAL We know the importance of supporting our local businesses, and we want to challenge Simcoe County to #ShopLocal this spring!

HERE ARE SOME OF OUR LOCAL FAVOURITES!

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Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 16

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

IT'S OUR TURN TO GIVE BACK TO SMALL BUSINESSES March 17 marked the oneyear anniversary of the first COVID-19-related business closures in Ontario (bars, restaurants and theatres), with thousands of other businesses deemed non-essential the following week on March 24.

To say that a lot has changed for small businesses in that time would be an understatement. Business owners have had to navigate entirely new forms of social interaction, pivot to online sales, takeout or remote work arrangements, and then understand and apply new rules and regulations at breakneck speeds.

The effects of the pandemic will linger for long after COVID-19 itself.

Here are three key ways in which the reality for small businesses will be different going forward: 1. Many small businesses, especially in customer-facing sectors, have seen dramatic drops in sales since the start of the pandemic due to ongoing government-mandated lockdowns.

Currently, only 27 per cent of Ontario businesses are making normal sales and many have turned to loans, credit cards or even their retirement savings to stay afloat. The average Ontario

3. A third of all small businesses are now selling online, an increase of approximately 152,000 new entrants to the digital sphere since the start of the pandemic. A majority say they will continue to use eCommerce and digital marketing even after the pandemic, giving consumers vastly more options when they shop online. However, many new entrants report they are still struggling to generate sales online — it's hard to compete against the big guys, like Amazon and Walmart, with a small marketing budget. Consumers can help by sharing their favourite local business on social media using #SmallBusinessEveryDay. Small businesses make our communities resilient and vibrant: they bring a unique character to their neighbourhoods, create local jobs, and happily sponsor our kids' sports teams.

Now it's our turn to give back and support them so they can make it to the other side.

Article provided by Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB). Learn more at the CFIB website cfib-fcei.ca.

CFIB image business now finds itself more than $207,000 in debt and many owners are worried about ever being able to repay it. Paying off that debt over the next few years will stunt the ability of a business to grow, invest in employees or new technologies, and expand. Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) is asking federal and provincial governments to find ways to reduce small business debt as part of recovery plans.

2. Mounting debt and the uncertainty of when they will be able to return to profitability

has pushed many business owners to wonder if they should pull the plug before things get worse. CFIB estimates that Ontario could lose as many as 20 per cent of businesses before the end of the pandemic, on top of the ones that have already closed. This puts more than 873,000 jobs in jeopardy. It's important for the Ontario government to have a clear view towards helping businesses replace subsidies with sales by creating safe ways for them to reopen and reassuring residents it's safe to shop local.

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17 | Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021

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Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 18

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

BUSINESSES, COMMUNITY SUPPORTS - AND INSPIRES - RVH Many things came to a halt because of the COVID-19 pandemic, but community support for Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) never skipped a beat.

Generous businesses and residents from across the region made sure Team RVH was well fed, and had the technology and personal protective equipment (PPE) needed to continue to safely deliver care. To date, close to 7,000 meals, 50,000 cups of coffee and more than 10,000 snacks have been delivered to health centre staff and physicians.

"We were overwhelmed by close to $600,000 in donations for COVID-19-related needs, which enabled us to invest in more ventilators and increase capacity in the intensive care unit

(ICU)," said Janice Skot, RVH president and CEO. "More than 300 businesses and individuals donated 60,000 pieces of PPE, including masks, gloves and face shields."

In addition, the community did not forget RVH's ongoing and future needs, including donating to the fundraising campaign to replace aging mammogram equipment and toward planned expansions in the neonatal intensive care unit, birthing unit and ICU. As the pandemic became a marathon, not just a sprint, this community kept Team RVH inspired.

Whether it was a parade of cars honking best wishes; cheerful signs on the lawn; painted rocks with messages of hope; or kind

words sent to RVH's website, staff and physicians knew their region was on the front lines right alongside them.

"This year has been gruelling and scary," said Char Lameront, RN, emergency department. "But when we are exhausted and a member of our community drops by with a coffee and a few words of encouragement, that means the world to us. Without our community behind us, I don't know how we would have made it this far."

A pandemic couldn't hinder the RVH Auxiliary from making a staggering $5-million pledge to RVH's next campaign, Moments Matter, and that's on the heels of completing a $2million pledge to the Hearts and Minds cam-

Barrie’s Visual Communications and Branding Experts Thank you to all our customers and front line workers for your support this past year.

Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre photo Char Lameront, RN, emergency department at RVH. paign.

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Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 20

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

ITAL PAVING (1985) LTD. BOOSTS ENTREPRENEURS SARA CARSON scarson@simcoe.com Niki Pickett has made it her business to help other local entrepreneurs. The owner of Ital Paving (1985) Ltd. has sponsored three full-page advertisements in the Barrie Advance to highlight some of her favourite local businesses.

"Ital Paving is on its 36th year because the community has supported us for 36 years. You have to give back in life and when you see your friends hurting, you do what you've got to do to help," Pickett said.

Pickett has lived in Simcoe County her entire life and is thankful for the community support her company has received through

the COVID-19 pandemic, she said. But some businesses are really struggling and Pickett wants to help them make it through.

"I'd like to rally around them if possible," Pickett said, Pickett sponsored advertisements to highlight four of her favourite local businesses: Dupey's Pets, professional dog walking and pet care (705-220-2652); Pampered Nails By Ping, full-service nail salon (705725-9333); The Sun Emporium, tanning salon (705-7395151); and Motta Lash House, a lash extension studio (705-503-3567).

"These four are close to my heart. They're friends and people I've worked with for years," Pickett

said.

She added, "I was over the moon excited to see their ads."

Ping Guo, owner of Pampered Nails By Ping, said she appreciates Pickett's support.

"Niki is a great person.

She is trying to help out the small business during this difficult time," Guo said.

Guo voiced her frustration around the government lockdowns that keep closing and reopening her business. It confuses customers when shops are open one day and closed the next, Guo said.

Guo encourages everyone to shop local.

"Because sooner or later, COVID will (be) over, but their favourite local

Sara Carson/Metroland Niki Pickett, owner of Ital Paving (1985) Ltd., at a home in Braestone, Oro-Medonte. business will not be there anymore," she said.

Pickett has some suggestions on ways you can help: buy a gift card, make a small purchase, or leave a

pleasant note on a local business' social media channel.

"I know sometimes you save $1 going to the big box store, but that $1 puts food

on a family's plate here in Simcoe County, who also hires in Simcoe County," she said.

Contact Ital Paving at 705-722-0765.

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21 | Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021

Skinsational is the location that most people think of when they think about being pampered in Barrie.

As a full-service aesthetic spa and massage therapy, established in 1988, Darlene Price and her staff exceed expectations with their professional customer service going above and beyond every time!

Even though this past year has been exceptionally tough on small businesses, the Skinsational staff took the opportunity to take online courses to expand on their knowledge and service offerings.

They are looking forward to welcoming back all of our regular patrons as well as meeting new ones.

Support Local Shop Local

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Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 22

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SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

5 WAYS THE CITY CAN HELP YOUR BARRIE BUSINESS GUIDANCE — providing knowledge and expertise on a variety of topics relevant to local businesses and the arts community, regardless of their size and stage of development.

REFERRALS AND CONNECTIONS — to industry professionals, experienced mentors and other business support organizations in our local area, in particular through our key partnerships with the Downtown Barrie Business Association (BIA), Chamber of Commerce, Sandbox Centre and Georgian College's Centre for Research and Innovation.

INVESTMENT SERVICING — assisting businesses with setting up a location in Barrie, including site selection, development, talent acquisition and staff retention.

Providing assistance with establishing Barrie as a base of operations from which to explore new markets and opportunities.

FUNDING — offering guidance toward the most appropriate funding sources for a business owner, whether they be traditional supports or the recently introduced suite of COVID-19 financial supports for business.

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KNOWLEDGE — ongoing training and learning opportunities presented by subject matter experts, in addition to our annual conferences and summits such as the Xcelerate Summit and the Manufacturing Innovation Summit.

For more information and to speak with a member of the city's team, visit investbarrie.ca.

Chris Yanch President/Owner

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23 | Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021

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Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 24

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

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OLIVE OIL CO. INC. RAMPED UP CUSTOMER SERVICE SARA CARSON scarson@simcoe.com

Sara Carson/Metroland Denise Tucker, owner of Olive Oil Co. Inc. inside her shop at 31 Commerce Park Dr., Barrie. There are four Olive Oil Co. locations: two in Barrie and one each in Newmarket and Midland.

Olive Oil Co. Inc. went above and beyond for its customers in 2020, said owner Denise Tucker.

And as a result, online sales carried the business through the pandemic, she said.

"We still had people phoning us (for orders), but it wouldn't have been enough, I will tell you," Tucker said.

Online sales leapt from minuscule in years past to rivalling the earnings of a physical store in 2020, Tucker said.

"We paid ... close attention to how we treated our customers who ordered from us online," she said.

Online packages and local deliveries are boxed with ribbon, a handwritten thank-

you note, and recipe cards.

Customers loved the extra care and were eager and thankful to shop local, she said.

Olive Oil Co. Inc. has four locations: two in Barrie, one in Newmarket and a new shop in Midland.

Tucker was encouraged by a customer to open in Midland and decided it was a "nobrainer" when she toured the downtown.

"The area is burgeoning. I would compare it to ... Collingwood from, say, 10 years ago or five years ago," she said.

Olive Oil Co. Inc. Midland is located at 232 King St., Midland. The shop opens May 20.

25 | Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021

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Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 26

k n a h T You

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

Krista

Owner Natural Balance Day spa

Natural Balance Day Spa Caring for you and the Environment

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SALON OWNER CONCERNED ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH JANIS RAMSAY jramsay@simcoe.com Lovely Nails owner Thu (April) Hoegy isn't afraid to shine the light on some of the dark spots of the pandemic.

Normally full of positivity, Hoegy is struggling professionally and mentally to get through this.

"COVID-19 is killing people, but a side effect of this pandemic is it's killing business and killing people with mental illness," Hoegy said. "I'm not afraid to talk about mental health. I fight it, I treat it, I work hard to survive it."

As an entrepreneur, she feels betrayed and abandoned by the government, which doesn't consider hers an essential service.

"It's unfair. What if you need a pedicure for an ingrown toenail, or have cracked, painful skin?" she said. "People bite their nails because of stress. It's an esthetic service, but it's also a mental relief."

She's explained to her daughter that she's not considered essential, and although the salon owner has qualified for

Janis Ramsay/Metroland Lovely Nails owner Thu (April) Hoegy is struggling during the pandemic. emergency relief funding, it hasn't been enough to cover the bills.

"I appreciate the financial support; that's why we are still here," she said.

She also appreciates community support from clients and strangers.

Hoegy will continue to speak out and fight for businesses like hers.

27 | Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021

simcoe.com

Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 28

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

NORTH SWING GOLF OWNER FIGHTS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES JANIS RAMSAY jramsay@simcoe.com

31 King Street, Unit 5

705-252-8473

Just like a golf caddy, Emil Kamel has no problem carrying the load and offering support for Simcoe County business.

In February, as Simcoe Muskoka was placed in a grey "emergency brake" lockdown, the North Swing Golf Lounge owner said he had seen enough inequity and spoke out to pitch better lockdown rules for small businesses.

"I started the petition out of feeling hopeless," Kamel said. "I think it came down to survival. This was life or death for so many of us."

He was frustrated that small businesses — who already spent money upgrading to meet health reg-

ulations — were being asked to close once again.

"We all have the same story; we felt like we were the scapegoat of the pandemic."

The petition gained more than 24,000 signatures, and caught the attention of Mayor Jeff Lehman, Barrie-Innisfil MPP Andrea Khanjin and BarrieSpringwater-Oro-Medonte MPP Doug Downey.

Days later, the province declared it would re-examine its lockdown restrictions.

Changes were announced March 26, with personal care services like hair and nail salons able to stay open with limits in regions under lockdown as of April 12, and outdoor fitness classes were able to resume March 29.

Emil Kamel photo Emil Kamel is owner of North Swing Golf Lounge in Barrie.

"Democracy can work," Kamel said. "It's amazing how much we have to fight, but as long as we see progress, (it's working). There are more changes that still need to be made."

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29 | Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021

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SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS – OPINION

TOURS PART OF SPRING FUN DOWNTOWN For a moment, it certainly felt like a re-emergence was happening in downtown Barrie. We were seeing more feet on the street headed to our local restaurants and shops. We were even seeing people sipping their coffees while basking in the sun at Meridian Place.

As we navigate through another 28-day provincewide lockdown, we can only look forward to its end.

On the flip side of this and with the COVID-19 vaccine roll out, we hope to see even more people safely distanced while enjoying the downtown. After all, we have the best independent restaurants and shops, a spectacular view of Kempenfelt Bay and some of the freshest Spring in the City air.

KELLY MCKENNA Column

We would still love to see you downtown, supporting our awesome independent businesses, perhaps after enjoying a self-guided historic or public art walking tour, or even a Barrie by Bike tour. You can get all the details on these tours at downtownbarrie.ca.

Of course, the Lifeline E-Gift Card program is the perfect way to support local while shopping online.

This program now features mystery options. Not sure

what to get that special someone on Mother’s Day, their birthday? Choose a Lifeline mystery option and leave it to the Downtown Barrie BIA to make the perfect selection.

While we were looking forward to enjoying Barrielicious on a beautiful patio, we’re happy to say the event will still be moving forward. Beginning April 9, Barrie’s premiere food festival invites you to place your order at a participating restaurant, pick it up or have it delivered, and enjoy it in the comfort of your own home. Delicious details about LocalLicious at locallicious.ca.

We look forward to seeing you downtown on the other side of this lockdown and promise to have more exciting things coming up this summer with Open Air Dunlop.

Stay safe!

Kelly McKenna is executive director of the Downtown Barrie Business Association.

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With an unwavering focus on safety, Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) introduced hundreds of new practices and protocols, put screeners at every door, restricted visitors, delayed scheduled surgeries to maintain bed capacity and, essentially, went into lock-down.

31 | Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021

RVH is here for YOU

So much has changed since last March when the COVID-19 pandemic was declared and Ontario entered a state-of-emergency.

We faced a global PPE shortage, opened additional beds, built a field hospital, and supported our long-term care partners as the virus ravaged their homes. Now, as Wave 3 tests our resolve, RVH offers ‘shots of hope’ at our busy Immunization Clinic in Barrie.

It’s been a gruelling year and our hearts go out to those who’ve lost loved ones to this terrible virus. Yet amidst the tragedy, despite fear for their own safety and that of their families, TEAM RVH continues to demonstrate incredible courage, compassion and commitment.

We are here for you, just as you have been there for us - raising our spirits through your outpouring of gratitude and encouragement.

You inspired us to stay the course.

Unfortunately, experts predict there are difficult days ahead and we are now in a race against time between the rapid variant spread and the vaccine. We need your help.

Please continue to diligently follow all safety precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones. We will continue to get through this together.

To keep our patients and communities safe during the pandemic, RVH: • Established an Emergency Command Centre to manage RVH’s response.

• Hired more than 300 additional staff, including screeners, immunizers, nurses, PSWs, cleaners and infection control specialists.

• Renovated spaces and added 100 new beds, including a Regional Pandemic Response Unit.

• Opened screening clinics in Barrie and Innisfil.

By-the-Numbers (March 2020 to April 2021) 267

COVID-19 patients admitted at RVH

86,700+

Swabs completed at Testing Clinics

35,100+

Vaccines provided at Sperling Drive

$600,000

In COVID-19 related donations to RVH

• Opened the region’s first Immunization Clinic.

• Accepted the transfer of 90+ patients from over-burdened GTA hospitals.

• Supported 25 Simcoe Muskoka long-term care and retirement homes.

• Expanded our laboratory capabilities to provide in-house COVID testing.

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• Introduced virtual visitation and pet therapy while our ‘Blue Brigade’ volunteers are temporarily suspended.

Follow us for more RVH news:

Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 32

This special edition of the Barrie Advance is sponsored by the City of Barrie to reflect on the changes and challenges of the past year and salute the innovation and resiliency in Barrie's business community. The City is committed to investing in supporting local businesses and economic recovery.

Are you a business that needs support? Get in touch with us!

BUSINESS in the

Parks

PILOT PROGRAM

The City is doing everything possible, in cooperation with the provincial and federal governments, to minimize impact and see economic recovery take place as soon as possible.

APR 1 – DEC 31 This program makes it easy for local businesses to offer services and activities during COVID-19 in three of Barrie's most popular public parks.

Businesses and organizations can apply online to book space in one of the following parks: • Meridian Place • Sunnidale Park • Kiwanis Pavilion at South Shore Park *Subject to COVID-19 health regulations and gathering limits.

If you’re a Barrie business needing professional support, the Small Business Centre can connect you to experts in: Legal Accounting Website development Human Resources Social Media Contact the Small Business Centre today at smallbusiness@barrie.ca or visit barriebusinesscentre.ca for more information.

Learn more via barrie.ca/SupportForBusiness

Check out HeyLocal, a local online marketplace.

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33 | Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021

Quarterly Economic Report

Want the latest insights and news on Barrie’s economy delivered directly to your inbox?

Sign up for the City’s Quarterly Economic Report at investbarrie.ca

Did you know

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Contact Us: Phone: 705-726-4242  TTY: 705-792-7910  E-mail: ServiceBarrie@barrie.ca

Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 34

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS – OPINION

WEDDING INDUSTRY HAMMERED BY PANDEMIC GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS IGNORE SECTOR, WRITES RYAN MALLOUGH

RYAN MALLOUGH Column

With a year of COVID in the books, there's been a lot of focus on the business sectors that have taken the biggest hits. The retailers locked down over the holiday season, restaurants limited to takeout options

only and the tourism industry as everyone was forced to stay at home.

All of these sectors need help, to be sure, but there's one sector that's gone unnoticed for too long with no relief or end to the pandemic pain in sight: the wedding industry.

While the Ontario budget's doubling of the Small Business Support Grant will be a significant help to many smaller businesses, there has yet to be any program that recognizes the unique and devastating situation the wedding industry finds itself in.

Many operators have been fully closed for almost all of the pandemic, and even with government support programs, overhead is still putting these businesses at a significant loss.

The reality is that these businesses cannot even be-

gin to recover until we can find a way to bring people together again under a single roof.

The Doctor's House, a wedding venue in Kleinburg, illustrated the issue well. They went from 307 events in 2019, to just eight in 2020.

That loss of business is enormous, representing millions of dollars across thousands of businesses. It sends ripples out like a tsunami across the wedding industry.

Caterers, decorators, florists, bridal stores, dress shops, tailors, rental stores, photographers, musicians, DJs, entertainment companies, salons and barbers, to printing houses, travel agents, transportation companies and hotels and motels — just to name a few — lose out on significant revenues.

One salon owner told us losing the four small wedding parties they had booked in 2020 cost them thousands of dollars, on top of all of the business they lost to myriad government restrictions and lockdowns over the course of the year.

What's worse, a lot of venues had to reschedule events to 2021. While this means it still happens, it also blocks off new business opportunities while the cost of food, labour and the

other things that go into prices also creep up with inflation.

More than a year into lockdown we are still using blunt, sweeping lockdowns to try to curtail the spread of COVID, with limited results. There needs to be a new approach if the industry is going to survive. Improved contact tracing, precision shutdowns and more creative use of readily available rapid testing are all key to bringing people back together.

Things are starting to pick up for small businesses, and as more individuals are vaccinated, there's good reason for optimism.

But as we approach May and June, we need a change in thinking if we're going to salvage the 2021 wedding season and save the industry.

Ryan Mallough is CFIB's Director of Provincial Affairs for Ontario.

Learn more at the CFIB website cfib-fcei.ca.

A STRONGER VOICE We recognize that diversity is the strength of our communities and we are inviting you to share your voice in our publications.

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Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 36

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS – OPINION

GOVERNMENT'S GRANT PROGRAMS NEED TO BE FIXED REOPENING ALONE WON'T BE ENOUGH FOR STORES, WRITES JULIE KWIECINSKI

JULIE KWIECINSKI Column

As the pandemic has continued to drag on, more and more small businesses have shuttered their doors forever. After months and months without in-store sales, our main streets are looking more like the sets of old westerns rather than the vibrant communities we knew them to be.

How can Ontario's small businesses be expected to survive, when some have been closed by government order for more than 80 per cent of the pandemic? When their average COVID-19 debt is about $208,000?

When only 27 per cent are at their usual revenues for this time of year?

After being in lockdown for so long, just being allowed to reopen alone won't make up for lost sales, especially as the provincial and municipal governments continue to tell

people to stay home and avoid the businesses they've allowed to reopen.

Add in low consumer confidence and changed shopping habits after people have been buying everything for months in person at Costco and Walmart, and online at Amazon, and what you get is the recipe for a lengthy and drawn-out recovery.

Small businesses need the government that closed them to help them navigate the long road to the other side of COVID-19.

The Ontario government must be there to financially support small businesses every step of the way. In a recent Canadian Federation of Independent Business survey, 75 per cent of Ontario's small businesses said that government programs are crucial to their survival in 2021.

We applaud the provincial government's budget move to automatically double funding to small businesses that have already received the Ontario Small Business Support Grant.

For example, if you were approved for $20,000 in the first round of funding, you will receive another $20,000 without having to reapply.

While this grant program is providing some additional much-needed support to many businesses, it ended on March

31 without helping the thousands of hard-hit small businesses across the province that were ineligible, including construction businesses, dry cleaners, caterers, the entire restaurant supply chain, breweries, regulated and unregulated health professionals, and print shops, just to name a few.

“Small businesses need the government that closed them to help them navigate the long road to the other side of COVID-19”

– Julie Kwiecinski

On top of a provincial grant that is more widely accessible, it makes sense to have more personal protective equipment (PPE) funding in place as Ontario businesses prepare to reopen after months of being closed to in-store customers. Ontario's one-time PPE grant of only $1,000 wasn't nearly enough.

When open, some gyms spend $2,000 a month alone

CFIB image on PPE! Sadly, the budget offers no new money for the PPE grant, which ended on March 31. Instead of closing this grant when PPE is needed most, the government should expand eligibility and increase the amount available to each small business.

Telling business operators they can use the Small Business Support Grant to pay for anything they choose — including PPE — is not an acceptable reason for shutting down the PPE

grant, when all of those dollars have already been allocated to mounting debt and other COVID-related financial challenges.

The Ontario government committed to doing whatever it takes to help small businesses — especially significantly impacted ones — weather the economic effects of government lockdown decisions.

It's not too late to turn these words into further actions by extending and improving the Small Business Support Grant and

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A full 30 per cent of Ontario's small businesses operators are worried about closing for good. The Ontario government can help stop this worry from becoming reality.

No one wants to see our main streets turn into old western ghost towns.

Julie Kwiecinski is a director of provincial affairs in Ontario with Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB).

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37 | Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021

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Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 38

We are ready to welcome you TO LIVITA BARRINGTON RETIREMENT RESIDENCE

Seeing the world may be on pause but planning is half the fun If you're ready to turn your travel daydreams into your future reality, we're here to help you get the ball rolling. With local destinations for 2021 and with 2022/23 on sale now, our team of local travel experts can help you plan your return to travel.

We will travel again, we can help.

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39 | Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021

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Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 40

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

FIVE WAYS YOU CAN SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES WRITE A REVIEW: Where do you go when you want to learn more about a new business? Probably Google. So why not tell other consumers about a favourite spot of yours by leaving a glowing review online?

FOLLOW THEM ON SOCIAL MEDIA: Not only do more followers help their visibility, but following is also a great way of learning about new products and sales.

TRY SOMETHING NEW: It's easy to just stick to known quantities: the place where you always get burritos, or the stationery store where you've bought every card for five years. But spread the love and shop at a business you've never tried.

BUY A GIFT CARD: Not sure what to buy? Decide later! Purchasing gift cards, for yourself or as a present, is a great way of helping the cash flow of a business and showing your support.

GIVE THEM FEEDBACK: Businesses have been forced to try all sorts of new initiatives in the pandemic, whether that's opening an online shop or offering new products. It's uncharted territory for many of them, so let them know how they're doing.

Article provided by Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB). Learn more cfib-fcei.ca.

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41 | Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021

I’m so grateful to all the staff and volunteers at Simcoe County Retirement and Long Term Care homes. Your hard work and dedication, your sacrifices and the risks you continue to take will not be forgotten. I am amazed by your bravery and fortitude in the face of this terrible pandemic.

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Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 42

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

SMALL BUSINESSES WORKING TOGETHER THROUGH PANDEMIC BLISS BENEATH OWNER WAS GIFTED BARRIE CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP JANIS RAMSAY jramsay@simcoe.com Fuelled with anger during the second lockdown in December 2020, Bliss Beneath owner Tamara DiSaverio walked to a big box store to purchase the very thing her store sells — women's bras.

"It was eye-opening for me, during the Boxing Day lockdown; it proved it wasn't about health and safety at all," DiSaverio said. "For hundreds of people to be able to go into a big box store and shop for the same item. At my shop,

I serve one at a time."

She filmed a rant about it on social media, which went viral.

"I take the pandemic seriously, which is why I operate by appointment only.

I sanitize between clients and do contact tracing."

One of the people who saw the video was Glass Doctor Barrie owner Dave Hawthorne. He gifted DiSaverio a membership to the Barrie Chamber of Commerce, so she could feel more supported.

"As a Barrie business owner, we have to help out our fellow neighbours," Hawthorne said. "These small, boutique-style businesses were shut down and have had a hard time.

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"To have someone buy me a membership blew me away. I drove over to his business that night to thank him in person. It was such a selfless gesture," DiSaverio said. "I am truly touched that somebody who doesn't know me wants to help my business survive the pandemic."

As a member for a few months now, the experience has been positive, DiSaverio said.

Right after becoming a member, chamber executive director Paul Markle called her to welcome her, and gave her advice.

"It was sound advice.

He explained how the chamber was working behind the scenes to effect change. There's a whole movement behind the

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43 | Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021

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“As a Denturist, there is nothing more satisfying than seeing a new denture wearer marvel at how their smile has been restored” says Dianne. Patients will often comment: “I can’t believe they look so real!”

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Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 46

Navigating the pandemic Presented by

¨

and

Five ways to keep supporting small businesses

SUPPORT LOCAL IN DOWNTOWN BARRIE You are the lifeline that keeps the heart of our downtown alive.

Thank you!

Purchase a Lifeline E-Gift Card at DowntownBarrie.ca

After more than a year, it’s understandable if you’re hitting a pandemic wall. A lot of us are worn out from a year of what feels like nonstop bad news; we’ve heard the phrases “lockdown,” “case counts” and “test positivity” more than we ever wanted to.

But in addition to patients, families and frontline workers, there’s another group for whom COVID isn’t just an inconvenience: business owners. Even in places with fewer restrictions, small businesses are having a hard time getting back to pre-pandemic sales levels, and they’ve taken on huge amounts of debt just to avoid shutting down. Here are some ways to keep your lo-

cal businesses afloat.

1. Write a review: Where do you go when you want to learn more about a new business? Probably Google. So why not tell other consumers about a favourite spot of yours by leaving a glowing review online?

2. Follow them on social media: Not only do more followers help their visibility, but following is also a great way of learning about new products and sales.

3. Try something new: It’s easy and tempting to just stick to known quantities: the place where you always get burritos, the bookstore you order from, the stationery store where you’ve bought every card for five years. Spread the love a little

and shop at a business you’ve never been to before.

4. Buy a gift card: Not sure what to buy? Decide later! Purchasing gift cards, for yourself or as a present, is a great way of helping a business’ cash flow.

5. Give them feedback: Businesses have been forced to try all sorts of new initiatives in the pandemic, whether that’s opening an online shop or offering new products. It’s uncharted territory for many of them, so let them know how they’re doing, Drop them a short message to say what you like or don’t like.

Article provided by Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB).

Learn more cfib-fcei.ca.

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Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 48

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

TOWN & COUNTRY STEAKHOUSE EMBRACES CHANGE SARA CARSON scarson@simcoe.com The COVID-19 pandemic pushed Steve Koussiouris to reinvigorate his 48-year-old downtown restaurant.

When Town & Country Steakhouse reopened after the spring 2020 lockdown, it was not business as usual.

For the first time ever, Town & Country Steakhouse started doing takeout.

"Who would have ever thought that a steakhouse, or fine dining, would be doing takeout, but it worked," Koussiouris said.

He added: "There was a lot of good support from the community."

Town & Country Steakhouse now has a regular takeout menu with weekly features and specials. And it's here to stay, Koussiouris said.

In summer 2020, the restaurant started offering outdoor dining for the first time ever. Guests dined on a wraparound Victorian-style porch, part of an old red brick home behind Town & Country Steakhouse, which the business owns.

This summer, Koussiouris is expanding the outdoor dining experience. Part of the parking lot will be transformed into a courtyard with patio stones, shrubs and other plants, lighting, and outdoor tables and chairs.

Customers will be encouraged

proach and saying 'Let's just go with it.'"

These developments were unimaginable a year ago, Koussiouris said. In the past, the idea of change was scary, he added. COVID-19 gave this restaurant the kick it needed, Koussiouris said.

"We can take the old and add new to it and rejuvenate everything and just make it more alive," he said.

Koussiouris added: "We've been there for almost 50 years: it's a nice change of pace."

After the pandemic ceases, Town & Country Steakhouse may use the main floor and patio of the red brick home to host functions.

Koussiouris said the pandemic was also an opportunity to become more tech-savvy. Customers are now frequently making online reservations.

"Before, 90 per cent of our reservations, people would call.

Now, 90 per cent would be online," Koussiouris said.

Town & Country Restaurant is located at 76 Dunlop St. W., Barrie. You can book reservations online at townandcountrysteakhouse.com, or by calling: 705-7265241.

Town & Country Steakhouse photo Town & Country Steakhouse, on Dunlop Street West in Barrie's downtown, added outdoor dining to its offerings in 2020. The fine dining restaurant will add a courtyard for dining this spring. to dine outside beginning in May, weather-permitting, Koussiouris said.

He added: "It's better, it's safer for everybody," he said. "We are just taking that proactive ap-

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49 | Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021

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Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 50

SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

BARRIE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE OFFERS HELP SARA CARSON scarson@simcoe.com The Barrie Chamber of Commerce has "shifted its focus" in the past year to help businesses through the COVID-19 pandemic, said chamber executive director Paul Markle.

"Even though we're notfor-profit, we're still a business. We still have bills to pay. Our shareholders are our members, and providing good content and making sure their investment in the chamber is one they can use effectively, has been our No. 1 goal (throughout) this whole thing," he said.

Business After 5 networking events moved online in 2020. The chamber hosted 21 of these bi-weekly

'Chamber Chats.'

They hosted 73 webinars, addressing topics like navigating COVID-19, human resources, and pandemic financial supports, Markle said. They also held 14 virtual town hall meetings with all levels of government.

"That's a lot of content; a lot more content than we would normally put out in a typical year," Markle said.

"Usually we have live events every month. This has been quite an undertaking for the staff here."

The Barrie Chamber of Commerce has approximately 900 members who pay into the organization. Knowing some businesses are struggling financially due to COVID-19 re-

strictions, the chamber offers payment plans for its membership fees, Markle said.

Some businesses doing well through the pandemic have stepped up: paying the membership of others.

"It's been a very communal feeling within our membership to make sure that they stay active and vibrant," Markle said.

Ongoing advocacy work and projects have been designed to boost struggling sectors, he said.

Markle used the #BarrieTakeoutChallenge as an example. When people buy from local restaurants, they are entered to win a cash prize provided by Paul Sadlon Motors and 107.5 Kool FM.

Elliott Impact Media photo Paul Markle is the executive director of the Barrie Chamber of Commerce.

A virtual Santa Tour — to replace the traditional Santa Claus Parade — had Old Saint Nick visiting different shops around the city.

The Barrie Chamber of

Commerce has continued its advocacy work for businesses locally, provincially and federally.

Most recently, Chambers of Commerce in Ontario — including Barrie —

sent a letter to Premier Doug Ford asking for changes to the COVID-19 response framework that would "level the playing field" for all businesses, Markle said.

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Barrie Advance | Thursday, April 8, 2021 | 52

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