Business Venture November 2012 by ventureguelph

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November 2012 issue

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Wellington Catholic graduates Lisa Winer and Alyssa Rod began their Apprenticeship with Linamar Corporation shortly after graduation this past June as part of a program offered by the company. (supplied photo)

Apprenticeship opportunity for young women in the trades by Katherine Boudreau www.premiumhrsolutions.com

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“There will always be people who say, ‘the trades are not for girls’,” says Lisa Winer casually. “We’re motivated to prove them wrong,” comments Alyssa Rodd. Lisa and Alyssa are recent graduates of the Wellington Catholic District School Board and have completed three months of their Industrial Electrician Apprenticeship with Linamar Corporation. Ninety percent of their training is on the job where these young women are learning the skills and competencies required for their trade. In their department at Linamar, there is only one other female amongst 30 men. The remaining ten percent of the required skills are provided at Conestoga College, where the apprentices will continue their trade school training. In their class at college the odds are similar, they are again two of three women in a class of 32.

When friends from high school heard they were pursuing careers in the trades the response was mixed. “Some were really supportive,” shares Alyssa, “and others said, ‘Really? But you’re a girl?” Regardless, both young women expressed that choosing a non-traditional career path for women hasn’t been a real issue and they enthusiastically agree that it is an extraordinary opportunity. In three months, “we have learned so much,” says Lisa. “Our mentors are everyone on the shop floor,” shares Alyssa. “It has been amazing here,” she adds. Lisa and Alyssa hope other girls from their school District will take advantage of a career in the trades upon graduation this coming year in 2013. Don Drone, Director of the Wellington Catholic School Board

feels fortunate that students from the District have been granted access to a program of this nature. “Wellington Catholic’s partnerships within the community offer students tremendous opportunities. The generosity of Linamar Corporation and the forward thinking nature of this apprenticeship program for young women benefits students while addressing a growing and pressing need for skilled trades people,” says Don Drone the District’s Director of Education. Alyssa and Lisa graduated in June of 2012 and began their Linamar Apprenticeships in July. At that time they became fully employed at Linamar and all tuition, books and other expenses have been paid for. They have also been registered by the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities, with Linamar as the sponsoring employer.

"We are thrilled to be working with the Wellington Catholic District School Board on this important initiative,” says Linda Hazenfratz Chief Executive Officer of Linamar Corporation. “The lack of skilled tradespeople in our country is a huge issue for us, and all Canadian manufacturing companies, making this program mission critical for us. The fact it is focused on young women is a bonus as women are under represented in this area which can be a fantastic, lucrative career choice," she continues. Attention: Parents and Wellington Catholic Graduates of 2013 The Linamar Corporation is offering to provide full funding to five female graduates from Wellington Catholic to begin their apprenticeship training in 2013 in one of the following skilled trades: Industrial Electrician, Industrial Mechanic Millwright or General Machinist. – continued on pg 7

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Bridging the Gap The Guelph Chamber of Commerce is working on bridge building with existing and upcoming labour shortages. Even though there is high unemployment in certain areas, such as in the 16-25 year old population, employers are having trouble filling jobs locally and across the country. Creating the 21st century workforce is a challenge the Ontario Chamber of Commerce has taken up as a part of its Emerging Stronger strategy. The Challenges… There are not enough students entering the skilled trades to meet labour market demand Ontario’s working-age population as a share of the total population is expected to decline by almost 9% by 2036 With an increasing senior citizen population across Canada, there will be a labour deficit of more than one million workers by 2031 Immigrant underemployment costs between $3.4 and $5 billion a year Canada’s labour productivity rate is growing at 0.5% annually compared to 2.1% for the US. Get involved… Through its Global Experience@ work program, the Guelph Chamber is working with the University of Guelph to research barriers to employing newcomers. A support package has been put together to link local businesses to language assistance, credential services, cultural training,

Guelph Chamber of Commerce Update and other areas identified as challenges to integrating people new to Canada. Many local businesses have come up with creative ways to make use of Guelph’s hidden talent pool. During the day on November 14th, Lutherwood has organized a Bridging the Gap Conference (www.lutherwood.ca/employment/bridgingthegap), with panel discussions from local employers, support agencies, and newcomers to address overcoming underemployment. From 4pm to 7pm on November 14th the Guelph Chamber has teamed up with Cambridge and Kitchener-Waterloo Chambers to showcase local businesses at Bingeman’s, including workshops on applying technology to businesses at our Economic Expo 2012. Admission is free to the public.

Guelph Chamber of Commerce Committees are in full Advocacy swing, looking for input from our business community. Providing input to City of Guelph budget developIdeas and suggestions can be forwarded to ment, also working on Highway 7 and Highway 6 Lloyd@guelphchamber.com or phone (519) 822-0224 development plans Membership and Marketing Sector development and collaboration with Support for small business and not for profits: Innovation Guelph supporting businesses developing promoting expanding programs for connecting new technology, processes, or products. Peer group businesses. meetings organized by Guelph Chamber, staff specialists in the following areas: Benefits programs for small business to attract and retain employees Manufacturing: Sanjay Saxena Programs Business After 5 focusing on plant tours this year

Hire a student… Guelph is rich in student talent with two active school boards, and top ranked college and universities. The Guelph Chamber’s Workplace Development Committee has put together a landing page outlining the various student co-op programs being offered by our schools and postsecondary institutes. As Guelph continues to lead the country in job creation there is an increasing need for internationally trained workers to fill the skill shortages, and to make use of our emerging workforce. Get involved with the Guelph Chamber of Commerce to help us to build the bridges to employment.

Information and Communications Technology: Kevin Boon

Food and Agriculture, Water Technology: John Pickard Pulse on Innovation: Food and Agriculture breakfast series continues November 22 on supply chain man- General Business: Steve Barrett agement, reducing waste and creating value Contact the Guelph Chamber for meeting dates Workplace Development and times for peer groups if you are in these sectors. If you want support on innovation, connect Looking at integrating immigrants, using their full through Innovation Guelph’s website: skill potential www.innovationguelph.ca Connecting students to employment and career opportunities

Innovation Guelph Innovation Guelph (IG) is one of Ontario’s Regional Innovation Centres (RICs), operating in partnership with MaRS and MEDI.We help innovative enterprises start, grow and thrive by addressing the needs of entrepreneurs, community organizations, researchers and business leaders.We help clients to understand and access funding available through Provincial, Federal, or other sources; provide strategic, expert business advice; and organize and host events focused on business training, networking, and community initiatives. In Jan of 2012, IG moved to its new location at 111 Farquhar St. in Guelph. The new facility houses all of IG’s client services; a business incubator; as well as an exciting public event space, available to book at a special rate! Great place to come visit and hang out with your business partners, to work, or mingle with the IG Team. If you need to book a boardroom or to hold an event, consider Innovation Guelph’s new facility! For more information about our spaces, visit our website at www.innovationguelph.ca

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Company Profile Miller Thomson LLP is proud to be named as a “Go-to Law Firm” for the fourth year in a row in Corporate Counsel magazine’s international reference directory, Inhouse Law Departments at the Top 500 Companies.This puts Miller Thomson in an exclusive group of law firms performing exceptional work for the Fortune 500.The firm takes pride in having built a network of eleven offices country-wide, including Guelph. Miller Thomson covers Canada better than any other national business law firm offering comprehensive legal services to a complete range of business, advocacy and personal legal services to corporations, financial institutions, entrepreneurs, governments, not-for-profit organizations and individuals.As one of the oldest and largest law firms in Guelph, having served the community since 1898, the Guelph office has grown substantially under the influence of Miller Thomson’s national partnership. Located in the AGRICentre at the University of the Guelph Research Park, our lawyers offer advice and representation in labour and employment, family law, corporate and commercial, agri-business law, health professionals, estate planning, condominium law, as well as municipal and real estate development including the research and agriculture sectors. Our lawyers take pride not only in an extensive knowledge of the law in their respective practice areas, but also an unyielding service commitment in understanding your business needs and strategies and in devising practical, creative and cost-effective advice to advance and meet your objectives.

Upcoming Events

New Members Auto Reflections Car Care Ltd. www.autoreflections.ca

Elora Label Company www.eloralabel.com

Sabre www.sabreit.ca

Big Wish Marketing Group www.bigwish.ca

Infinican Computer Centre www.infinican.com

Speed River Bicycle Inc. www.speedriver.com

Cora Breakfast and Lunch, Guelph www.chezcora.com/home

Jake Circle K Stables www.jakecirclek.ca

Sun Life Financial www.sunlife.ca

Culligan Water www.culliganwater.ca

N2 Compliance Ltd. www.n2compliance.com

Toppers Pizza www.toppers.ca

Da Maren Renovations www.damarenrenovations.ca/

Nu Image Lawncare Inc. www.nuimageinc.ca

WashTech www.wash-tech.ca

Dave Merkley Roofing Ltd. www.davemerkleyroofing.com

Padgett Business Services www.padgettguelph.ca

Xylem Residential Commercial Water www.xyleminc.com

Upcoming CMA Information Sessions Guelph Chamber of Commerce April 20, 10:00 am – 11:00 am May 18, 10:00 am – 11:00 am June 18, 3:30 pm – 4:30 pm To register, please visit http://forms.cma-ontario.org/infosessions/ To learn more about the CMA designation contact: Dana Gies, MBA, CMA at dgies@cmaontario.org or visit www.becomeacma.com.

State of the City Address 2012 Mayor Karen Farbridge Holiday Inn Guelph, November 01, 2012 7:30am to 9:00am.

Chamber Pub Night Cutten Fields, November 19, 2012 5:00pm to 7:00pm. Just drop in, all welcome.

New Members Reception Family & Children’s Services new offices located at 275 Eramosa Road, November 6, 2012 from 5:00pm to 7:00pm.

Innovation Breakfast–Value Chain: From Producer to Consumer Delta Guelph Hotel & Conference Centre, November 22, 2012 7:30am to 9:00am Martin Gooch, Director of the Value Chain Management Centre, a subsidiary of the George Morris Centre will speak about value chain innovation in the agriculture and food industry.

2012 Business Expo: Technology Solutions and Your Business Bingemans, November 14, 2012 4:00pm to 7:00pm workshops on technology solutions included, free to the public. 175 Exhibitors from 3 local Chambers. Booths available via Guelph Chamber.

Business After Five–University of Guelph November 27, 2012 5:00pm to 7:00pm Join us for a tour of the University of Guelph’s Thornbough GCC Breakfast Academy–The Benefits & Engineering Building where you will have the opportuRisks of Cloud Computing for Your nity to participate in one of four tours of this new Enterprise facility. Each tour will focus on a different discipline Holiday Inn Guelph Hotel & Conference Centre, within Engineering. Learn about Nonotechnology, robotNovember 16, 2012 7:30am to 9:00am. Join us as Jim ics, water technology, environmental sustainability. Sanderson, Data Centre Solutions Architect at Compugen, For more information on these and other events please explains “the cloud” and discusses the promises and visit www.guelphchamber.com risks of the public cloud.

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Media release

St. Joseph’s opens ground-breaking rehabilitation garden

As the fall season gets underway, St. Joseph’s was all about gardens as it recently opened the Pearson Motion Garden. The Pearson Motion Garden, the first of its kind in North America, represents a whole new approach to rehabilitation–one that will produce better, faster outcomes for patients by using the outdoors to help increase motivation, improve mood, decrease pain and speed healing. St. Joseph’s Health Centre plans to use the new garden, not only as a therapeutic tool for people who are recovering from one-the-job or on-the road injuries, stroke, surgery, amputation, brain or spinal cord injuries, but also as a research centre where local and other care-givers from further afield can learn more about incorporating the outdoors into traditional physio- and occupational therapy. As Canada’s population ages, the need for more

effective rehabilitation treatments will continue to gain importance as a growing segment of the population will need help getting back on their feet after knee and hip replacements or during recovery from other conditions related to aging. Getting high quality results in less time will be important to making optimum use of limited health care resources. Along with other community resources like the Guelph Enabling Garden, the Pearson Motion Garden promises to put Guelph/Wellington on the map in terms of innovative approaches to outdoor rehabilitation. The garden was funded thanks to a $330,000 donation from the LJ Pearson Foundation, headed by local philanthropists Larry and Shawn Pearson. KMA Contracting Inc. did the construction. "Our Foundation is very grateful to be able to be a part of this ground-breaking idea of a

motion garden to help accelerate the recovery of patients in our community,” says Larry Pearson. “Both Shawn and I are very impressed with the wonderful things that the staff at St Joseph's are accomplishing.” “We’re thrilled that Larry and Shawn stepped forward to help us get this project underway,” says Marianne Walker, President, St. Joseph’s Health Centre Guelph. “This is a special initiative because the staff have taken it from an idea on paper to a project that is breaking new ground in the area of outdoor rehabilitation – innovation that we believe will have a significant and positive impact on our patients and others world-wide. It’s great to see this kind of visionary partnership between St. Joseph’s and generous community partners like the LJ Pearson Foundation. We are deeply grateful for their generosity.” St. Joseph's Health Centre is the city’s only spe-

Community members gathered at City Hall to launch this year’s Purple Ribbon Campaign to increase public awareness and knowledge of child abuse prevention. Guelph Police Service decorated a police cruiser with purple ribbons to encourage support. See full article on page 8. (Photo by Natasha Persaud, Venture Guelph Publications Ltd.)

R BOY’S LUNCHEON POO

Advocis TM - Golden Triangle Chapter thanks the many people and businesses who supported the 27th Annual Poor Boys’ Luncheon and helped raise almost $9000. for Community Living Guelph

Big thanks to: ADVOCIS TM Golden Triangle Chapter Italian Canadian Club Great West Life Canada Life London Life

Freedom 55 Financial Red Chevron Club Zehr’s Hartsland Buns Master Bakery 1460 CJOY 106.1 Magic FM

All patrons of the event November 2012 page 4 VENTURE GUELPH PUBLICATIONS LTD. Business Venture 19 years in 2012!

cialty hospital offering rehabilitation and continuing complex care and Guelph’s first choice for residential long-term care. The Centre’s Community Outreach Day Programs are recognized as being among the best in Canada. St. Joseph’s also provides outpatient clinics, which include physiotherapy, occupational and speech therapy, rheumatology, physiatry, and bone densitometry.

Richard Boxwell, shown here with St. Joseph's physiotherapist Heather Duffy, using the dry riverbed in the Pearson Motion Garden to help master the challenges of walking on uneven terrain so that he can safely navigate the terrain around his trailer. Richard had his left leg amputated above the knee in October 2011 and attended Inpatient Rehabilitation at St. Joseph's for prosthetic training, achieving independence using a walker on level surfaces. (supplied photo–Barbara Macrae)

Lifestyles Festival of Trees 20th anniversary

Health, Arts & Trends

by Heather Grummett This holiday season marks the 20th anniversary of Festival of Trees. The annual fundraiser for St Joseph’s Health Centre Foundation is a grand display of beautifully decorated Christmas trees, which community members can visit for free at the River Run Centre. When the Festival first began there were 12 trees and 20 volunteers. Now 20 years later, over 50 decorated trees fill the Canada Company Hall and the fundraiser has over 100 volunteers contributing to the success. Close to 15,000 people visit the display each year, with approximately 300,000 people making the Festival of Trees part of their holiday celebrations since it began. Trees are sponsored by local businesses and then various groups and individuals such as schools, companies, service clubs, local artists, nursery and public schools all bring their creativity to the decorating. Often the trees follow current themes–over the years trees have been adorned with decorations including Harry Potter, Spiderman, Dr. Seuss, Phantom of the Opera, mermaids and Elvis. Each year visitors join in the excitement by voting for their favourite tree. Over the last couple years, each tree has been lit with energy saving LED lights, donated by Guelph Hydro. Tree sponsorship ranges from $250 to $2000, with an exclusive sponsorship available for $10,000. The majority of the trees stay on display at the River Run Centre until after Christmas, though volunteers deliver some trees to the offices of the sponsors or, if the sponsor chooses, to local charities for display until after Christmas. St Joseph’s Health Centre is Guelph and Wellington’s only specialty hospital for rehabilitation and complex care, and it is Guelph’s first choice for long term care.

Over the years the fundraiser has contributed close to $500,000 to support the work at St Joe’s Health Centre with new equipment and medical programs to improve quality of life. The annual fundraiser has contributed to the roof on St. Joseph’s 2002 facility. Over the years it has also helped to make special purchases like instruments for St. Joseph’s music therapy program, and tools for the horticultural therapy program. As well, it has provided funding for St. Joe’s Adult Day Program Centre, which supports independence for survivors of acquired brain injury, supports those living with Alzheimer’s, as well as frail seniors who live in our community. A new one-of-a-kind rehab garden has also recently opened at St. Joe’s. As part of the 20th celebration, this year supporters can visit the angel tree and be a St. Joe’s angel, by making a donation to the Foundation and receiving an ornament. The Festival of Trees runs from November 21 to December 9. St. Joe’s also runs a festival gift shop with a variety of unique ornaments available for purchase; it is open during River Run Centre performances. For more information visit www.sjhcg.ca.

EVENT Nov 17 Community Craft Sale 9:30am – 1:30pm Handmade jewelry, clothing crafts and more. Free admission and parking. Evergreen Seniors Community Centre, 683Woolwich St Call 519-823-1291 for more information about registration or visiting.

The 15th annual Taste of Guelph raised $75,000 to help Guelph General Hospital and St. Joseph's Health Centre. Pictured in the foreground are left to right: Barbara Macrae, St. Joseph's Health Centre Foundation, Shelley Kreiger, Co-owner of the Red Brick Café, and Mary DuQuesnay, St. Joseph's Health Centre Foundation. (Photo by Natasha Persaud, Venture Guelph Publications Ltd.)

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The 20th annual Festival of Trees runs from November 21 to December 9 at the River Run Centre. (supplied photo–Barbara Macrae)

BRAIN FITNESS EVENT

Join us on Wednesday, November 14, 2012 from 3:30 pm to 5:00 pm for a workshop by

Paul Hyman, a “Brain Trainer” Specialist Come see how you can tune-up your brain the wellness way to improve your memory, concentration, enhance cognition, improve balance and coordination. This unique program is based on current scientific research on how the brain functions. We will show you how you can benefit from these easy exercises. Brain Fitness Flash Cards are available to use as a personal customized program to improve: • Mental functioning-enhancing cognition • Communication • Co-ordination & mobility • Memory & concentration • Vision & hearing

November 2012 page 5

VENTURE GUELPH PUBLICATIONS LTD. Business Venture 19 years in 2012!

75 Woolwich St., Guelph, Ontario N1H 6N6 Phone: (519) 821-4600 • Fax: (519) 824-3088 www.wellingtoncdsb.ca

Roll up your sleeve Flu Season 2012 is upon us and The Public Health Agency of Canada states “It’s time to immunize!” This is excellent advice. Seasonal Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory virus that infects millions of Canadians every year. These viruses circulate in every part of the world. The seasonal vaccine has been developed by scientists, laboratories, consultants and agencies world-wide since early 2012. Based on this research, the composition of this year’s vaccine is determined. This year’s seasonal vaccine will therefore include the three most prevalent strains of last year’s flu season. Although everyone from the age of 6 months, who live, work or attend school in Ontario are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated, there are high risk groups who should definitely get the flu shot. The National Advisory Committee on Immunization (NACI) recommends for 2012-2013, adults and children with underlying health conditions, including morbid obesity; residents of nursing homes and other chronic care facilities; people over 65, children 6 to 59 months of age, pregnant women; and Aboriginal peoples; those capable of spreading influenza to individuals at high risk of complications– health care providers in facilities and community settings; household contacts of high-risk persons including infants under 6 months of age; those providing care to those

YMCA-YWCA–building healthy communities

by Anna Bartolomucci under 59 months of age; and those providing services in closed setting to those at high risk (e.g. crew on a ship); and those who provide essential community services”. The flu affects approximately 5 million or 10-25% of Canadians each year. While the majority who become sick will recover within one week, the flu results in an average of 50,000 hospitalizations, 1.5 million days of work absenteeism, and 3,000 to 5,000 deaths in Canada each year. The flu shot may not protect 100% of susceptible individuals; however, the flu vaccine can prevent illness for 70 to 90% of individuals. The flu vaccine does not cause the flu. It does not contain live virus. Some people may get mild flu-like symptoms for up to 48 hours following a shot. Full protection takes two weeks and can last up to one year. The best time to get a flu shot is from October to December. Visit the World Health Organization’s and the Public Health Agency of Canada’s websites for more information, and remember to roll up your sleeve...it’s time to immunize! For more information on hosting a workplace flu clinic, contact Anna Bartolomucci. Anna Bartolomucci RN, WellServe Health Care Management, 519-837-3896 Ext 17, anna.bartolomucci@wellserve.on.ca

VENTURE GUELPH PUBLICATIONS Ltd. 2 Quebec St, Suite 232 Guelph ON N1H 2T3 E: venture@golden.net www.ventureguelph.ca –Digital issues on the website–

As a charity that’s over 150 years old, the YMCA continues to serve people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities, through all stages of life. The Y has always been dedicated to helping people attain good health through a healthy lifestyle, while encouraging them to get involved in making their community a better place for everyone. The Y’s concept of health focuses on prevention, rehabilitation, self-management and the social support needed to grow in spirit, mind and body. Around the world Ys actively bring together people from all walks of life to create a sense of belonging through many diverse programs and events. Locally the YMCA-YWCA of Guelph provides values-based programs and services that teach the importance of caring, honesty, respect, responsibility and inclusiveness. Programs offered range to include fitness, day and overnight camps, aquatics and childcare. The annual YMCA Women of Distinction Gala recognizes outstanding women, who have contributed to the community and advanced the status of women through arts and culture, education, business, health and wellness, recreation, science and technology, volunteering, The Guelph Y Teenage Parents Program (TAPPS) provides support, information and resources to pregnant and parenting teens. Programs are available for young women up to age 21 and young men up to age 24. The goal of TAPPS is to support the personal growth of pregnant and parenting teens and their children while assisting teen parents in improving their parenting skills, education and well being. Community partners provide education and advice about parenting children. Topics include nutrition, sleep safety, infant health, behaviour development, women’s health and life skills. The Y SHARKs swim program is an innovative program provided to all Grade 3 and 5 students in the city. The program teaches the Lifesaving

Society’s “Swim to Survive” curriculum of surviving a sudden and unexpected fall into deep water. SHARKs has grown from 6 schools and 250 Grade 3 students in 2004, to over 2300 Grade 3 and 5 students. The only program of its kind, it is offered to all Public, Private and Catholic Elementary schools, free of cost, with the support of community partners, the City of Guelph and the Univ. of Guelph. The Y also provides Licensed Childcare, operating 625 licensed spaces for infants, toddlers, preschool, and school age children through nine centres in the Guelph community. Over 850 children are served in all licensed programs and over 250 children are served in licensed school age programs. In a safe, stable and nurturing environment more conducive to learning, the “Playing to Learn” curriculum offers concepts in the foundation of language and literacy, writing, arts, music, mathematics, science and technology. Through YMCA Playing to Learn, your child’s early educator is more attentive, more involved and more aware of how your child is developing and what your child is learning.

For more information on these and other programs offered at the YMCA-YWCA of Guelph, visit www.guelphy.org.

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VENTURE GUELPH PUBLICATIONS LTD. Business Venture 19 years in 2012!

STEP 1: Learn about the skilled trades offered in the program Industrial Electrician Industrial Electricians perform numerous tasks involving heavy industry electric machines. They lay out, assemble, install, maintain, examine, test, troubleshoot and repair electrical equipment and controls, including wiring, receptacles, switch boxes, conduits, feeders, case assemblies and lighting fixtures. They work on electrical motors, generators, robotics and computerized control equipment, and industrial storage batteries. Industrial Electricians must read and interpret blueprints to plan installations and they must understand code specifications. They generally work in the manufacturing industry. General Machinist General Machinists manufacture, install, operate, adjust and repair machine tools and other machines in common use. They set up and operate precision metal cutting and grinding machines such as lathes, milling machines, drills, shapers, boring mills and grinders. They must read and understand blueprints, engineering drawings, charts and tables, and perform measurements and calculations. They generally work in large or small manufacturing settings, making parts. Industrial Mechanic Millwright Industrial Mechanic Millwrights maintain and repair stationary industrial machinery, mechanical equipment and automated and robotic systems. They are most often involved with installing, maintaining, repairing and removing machinery and equipment in industrial plants and factories. They must read diagrams and schematics to determine work procedures, perform installations according to layout plans, operate hoisting

and lifting devices, and use welding equipment and tools. They generally work for primary steel producers, motor vehicle manufacturers, machinery and equipment manufacturers and mining companies. STEP 2: Participate in the application process • Join the tour of a Linamar facility • Complete an application form • Complete aptitude and TOWES testing • Be interviewed by Linamar Human Resources staff • Receive High School Diploma For more information about this exciting opportunity for young women in the skilled trades, please contact your local Wellington Catholic High School or the District office at 519-821-4600. ventureguelph.ca

business to business | homes and lifestyles 2012–The opinions and stories that appear in the columns of Business Venture are for information purposes only. Statements and opinions within the pages of Business Venture are those of the writers and do not necessarily represent those of the publisher, advertisers or Venture Guelph Publications Ltd.

519-824-1595 Mike Baker, Publisher venture@golden.net www.ventureguelph.ca 2 Quebec Street unit 232 Guelph Ontario This issue: 20 pages and NO inserts. Printed by McLaren Press Graphics Ltd.

(supplied photo)

Apprenticeship–continued from page 1

Guelph Community Foundation announces fall grants and celebrates High Honour for Founding Chair It was an air of celebration that greeted the crowd of over 100 at the River Run Centre for The Guelph Community Foundation’s fall grants announcement. Before the event’s two big announcements, donors, grant recipients, community leaders and friends of The Foundation mingled, made Random Act of Kindness Day pledges and were entertained by a trio formed by former grant recipients of the recently launched Guelph Youth Symphony Orchestra. The crowd was then moved by stories recounting the impact of past grants. “That’s what The Guelph Community Foundation does: builds endowments to create an income stream that makes these types of grants and these types of personal stories possible, forever,” said Andrea Olson, Executive Director. “It was the vision of a small group of Guelphites just over ten years ago, including that of our founding Chair Ken Hammill.” For his role as founding GCF chair, his vision and enduring commitment to the community through entrepreneurship, civic service, volunteerism and philanthropy in many organizations, Hammill–an undisputed community leader–received the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal from Guelph MPP, Liz Sandals, to a standing ovation during the event’s first big announcement. “Ken has generously shared his leadership with so many organizations and causes in the City, the community foundation being one of them. His vision of a foundation that would help build a stronger Guelph for everyone has inspired many and this recognition is just one reminder of this legacy that he has built,” said Cindy Lindsay, the Foundation’s first Executive Director and now Director of Member Services, Community Foundations of Canada. That legacy saw the GCF grow from one fund in 2000 to over 100 funds today. “We are all feeling the effects of weak financial markets but prudent stewardship on our part coupled with generous flow through donations

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VENTURE GUELPH PUBLICATIONS LTD. Business Venture 19 years in 2012!

from fund holders, means we are in a position to allocate $50,000 to 16 local organizations this Fall in the fields of arts and culture, children and youth, education, environment, community and social services,” commented Susan Brown, Foundation Vice-Chair and Grants Committee. The Fall Community Grants are in addition to Spring scholarship and summer camp grants, various donor advised, and flow through grants, bringing the GCF’s total number of grants to date in 2012 to well over 90 and totalling over $170,000.00. Last year, donors contributed more than $1.3 million. “Donors appreciate the flexibility that we offer in terms of identifying causes that matter to them personally as well as new pressing community issues and the range of giving options. They also trust our long-term vision and impact, our very careful approach to investing and stewardship,” said Jay Elinesky, Board Chair. “We are very conscientious of the legacy that is entrusted to us. It’s our donors’ commitment and generosity that make this all possible.” For more information visit www.guelphcf.ca. Recipients of the community grants were: • Career Education Council,Build Your Community,Build Your Resume,$5,000 • Chalmers Community Services,Evening Pantry Service Continuation,$4,000 • Child Witness Centre,Guelph Wellington County Youth Symposium,$1,000 • Children’s Foundation of GW,St.John Bosco Lunch Program,$2,000 • Guelph Contemporary Dance Festival,Community Based Initiative for New Festival Program,$3,000 • Everdale Environmental Learning Centre,Discovery Farm: Educational items and learning support materials,$4,000 • Guelph Youth Music Centre,School of Rock After School Program,$3,000 • Julien Project,Harvesting Program for Marginalized Youth,$3,000 • Pollination Guelph,Hospice Wellington Pollinator Garden,$2,750 •Scientists in School,Guelph Capacity Building Project (Engineer Focus),$2,677 • Guelph Symphony Orchestra,GSO Kids – Season Launch,$5,000 • United Way/Poverty Elimination Task Force,Advance Your Voice,$3,500 • Upper Grand Learning Foundation: Laurine Avenue School (@ King George) Music Program,$3023 • Volunteer Centre of Guelph Wellington,Handbook for Recreation and Sports, $3,300 • Upper Grand Learning Foundation: Westwood Public School,Primary Reading Buddies Program,$2,750 • Wyndham House,Client Transportation Program,$2,000

Business to Business

Profiles, Technology, Legal, News & Announcements

Publisher’s message Flip through this issue of Business Venture and you will see, there is just so much happening around the city of Guelph. A new column from Marty Williams, the Executive Director for the Downtown Guelph Business Association (page13) points out the variety of projects taking place downtown. Our cover story tells how Linamar Corporation is encouraging female high school graduates to consider a career in the trades, through the creation of their Industrial Electrical Apprenticeship Program.

As always, our Chamber of Commerce pages (2-3) are the perfect complement to Business Venture, with various event listings, business news, and member profiles. The holiday season is almost here, which is the beginning of many seasonal events, including the Santa Claus Parade and Festival of Trees. It is also a time when many organizations are holding events to raise funds in support of various community initiatives. Be sure to thank the many business sponsors who help to make these events a success. If you have an upcoming business or corporate event–visit

our updated website www.ventureguelph.ca, and we will post your submissions to our calendar of events. Our last Business Venture issue of the year will be distributed in early December. Contact us at infoventure@golden.net with your upcoming business news. Mike Baker, Publisher Venture Guelph Publications Ltd. Guelph, Ontario venture@golden.net

Raising funds for veteran wreath project

Purple Ribbon Campaign

Woodlawn Memorial is looking for community support towards a winter wreath fundraiser. The cemetery hopes to place wreaths on the graves within the two veteran areas, where a total of 180 stones mark both the World War Two veterans plus the veterans of earlier conflicts. There are many other veterans buried in family lots at Woodlawn Cemetery and families are welcome to purchase a wreath for them as well. On December 1, Woodlawn Cemetery will have a service to recognize the veterans and

Each October, local children’s aid societies across the province hold a ‘Purple Ribbon Campaign’ to increase public awareness and knowledge of child abuse prevention. Wearing a Purple Ribbon reminds us that everyone has a role to play in keeping our children safe and helping families get the services and support they need. Family & Children’s Services (F&CS) launched Child Abuse Prevention Month at Guelph City Hall, joined by Guelph Mayor Karen Farbridge, Wellington County Councillor Don McKay, and Guelph Police Chief Bryan Larkin. “The Guelph Police Service is proud to support the Purple Ribbon Campaign as we raise awareness about the importance of building a safe, strong a vibrant community where children of all ages have the opportunity to flourish as our future leaders,” said Chief Bryan Larkin, Guelph Police Service. This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Child Abuse Prevention Campaign in Ontario. The campaign theme is “child protection is everyone’s business”. The campaign goal is to provide information to Ontarians regarding everyone’s responsibility to protect children. It is also a goal to build awareness of how to report suspected abuse and neglect and who to call. "We are committed to working with all members of our community to ensure that children and youth are living in safe and caring environments," states Daniel Moore, F&CS Executive Director. F&CS responds to over 3,000 requests for service each year and conducts over 1,500 child protection investigations per year. The Family Services

donors. The 11th Field Regiment will be on hand to place wreaths. Once all the graves have been marked, the Regiment will close the service with the firing of the Howitzer. Woodlawn is fundraising to purchase the wreaths for this season and hopes to find a business sponsor for the upcoming years. The cost of the program is $3600. All donations are welcome. Any donation of $25 or more will receive a charitable receipt. Contact Ceska Brennan for more details at 519-822-1271.

OPINION

The city’s use of trial balloons It’s an exercise that pops up every year at budget time. First, the city staff reports a property tax increase that is politically out to lunch. For 2013 the proposed increase was 8.5 per cent. That’s the head fake. Then Council sends them back to the locker room to re-work the numbers to make it more palatable to the taxpayers. This year council’s number was 3 percent. What followed, after the annual August vacation at city hall, was a broadside from Chief Administration Officer, Ann Pappert, who called the council demand a “regressive decision” and not “palatable.” To whom? One might ask. With 94 per cent of the city revenue coming from the taxpayers, you’d think they had some say in the matter. Their representatives on council did question staff increase and asked for a review. This same routine comes up every year. The threat of service cuts is tossed on the table unless the staff’s increase is not approved. Nowhere in the process has anyone suggested that there are other ways to reduce costs without nailing the taxpayer with an excessive increase. For starters, is the staff overhead’s cost too high for the city? Staff salaries, wages and benefits now

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consume 89 per cent of the city’s operational budget of $174 million. Another area would be to reduce capital expenditures to reduce cost of carrying excessive debt. More than $5 million a year is spent servicing debt that is increasing as council adds more capital projects. Do we really need to tear down a viable strip mall to create a $16 million riverside park? Is it prudent to purchase more property on Wyndham Street to accommodate a new downtown library that has yet to be built? That project, along with the proposed South End Recreation Centre, is projected to cost $110 million. The critical point here is what happens when interest rates increase, usually to control inevitable inflation? Inflation will also elevate capital costs. Today’s estimates are too fuzzy to be taken seriously. Besides, the problem of coping with these increasing costs will lie with the next council and the one after that. Guelph is a beautiful city that is being burdened with unnecessary debt and obligations. This is an anathema to the stakeholders who feel helpless to change the situation. Gerry Barker is a Guelph resident and retired newspaperman. He writes and edits a blog called guelphspeaks.ca that offers commentary on city affairs.

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November 2012 page 8

Department works with about 400 families at any given time, and the organization has parental responsibility for about 200 children who live in the care of F&CS. Through their work, F&CS emphasizes: • It is our responsibility to keep children safe when their families are not able to. • Family is the most important thing to a child. Families are experts about their own experiences and must be involved in all planning and decision-making about their child. • We want all children to have a lifelong commitment from an adult caregiver in the hopes that they may achieve security, stability and belonging. • Children are well cared for when families get what they need, when they need it. • Being surrounded by a strong, healthy community is important in helping a family take good care of their children. • An important way to create change is to build respectful relationships in partnership with families, children and with all community partners. Ontario’s children are precious and the most vulnerable citizens in society. They deserve a life free of fear and violence. Every Ontarian can protect children by being alert to the subtle and obvious signs of abuse and knowing when and who to call to help a child at risk of harm. To learn more about the work of Family & Children’s Services, child abuse and neglect, how to recognize it and what happens when you call your local child welfare agency, go to www.fcsgw.org or call 519-824-2410.

VENTURE GUELPH PUBLICATIONS LTD. Business Venture 19 years in 2012!

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Profiles, Technology, Legal, News & Announcements Business to Business Ag Energy–providing energy to Ontario’s agriculture industry by Heather Grummett

Ag Energy Co-operative was formed in 1988 when a number of greenhouse growers joined together to purchase natural gas as a group. Since then, the co-operative has expanded its membership to include all agricultural producers, processors and stakeholders in Ontario. With the semi-deregulation of electricity in 2003, the co-operative grew to provide other forms of energy to members. As a consumer you can either be subject to utility pricing from a distributor such as Hydro One, Guelph Hydro, Union Gas, or Enbridge, or sign an energy contract with an independent retailer. Ag Energy acts as an energy retailer to the agriculture market. “As a Co-operative we are concerned with the value we add to each of our members and their businesses,” says Cathy Crawley, Inside Sales Co-ordinator for Ag Energy Co-operative. With over 360 members, most businesses are family owned and the operation details are generally taken Located on Speedvale Ave. Ag-Energy Co-operative has become Ontario’s leading care of by the owners. retailer of energy to the agricultural industry. (Photo by Natasha Persaud, Venture Guelph There often isn’t the time Publications Ltd.)

or sometimes the knowledge to also manage their energy needs on a large scale. Ag Energy takes those energy needs into account–when members want it, how much they need, and then finds the best price. The co-op provides risk management to their members, working with each business to analyze their individual needs. “The natural gas market is very volatile. It is up and down more than many other traded products on the market,” states Crawley. “We provide strategies to businesses allowing them to take advantage of pricing options based on how much energy they consume.” Members receive quarterly updates on the energy market and daily updates for those members who require it.

“Many businesses have a better time operating with a fixed budget,” adds Crawley. “We help to provide stability in energy costs that business owners can fit into their business model. We also offer more specific managed services in which members can take advantage of both stable fixed prices and/or index pricing of the market.”

However, Ag Energy is always looking for new opportunities with existing government programs and is currently considering a potential project though the government’s FIT program. As Ontario's largest farm energy co-op, Ag Energy provides half of all natural gas used by greenhouses and one third of all electricity consumed by Ontario agriculture. New Ontario members are welcome based on energy needs. The co-op focuses on commercial and industrial based agricultural businesses, which require a minimum of 150,000 kilowatt hours in electricity annually, or 50,000 meters cubed of natural gas per year. Businesses with an annual need of less than 50,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per year will have their energy needs best met through their local utility. The co-op does occasionally offer their services to the non-agricultural sector but to be a member you need to be in the agriculture industry. While most members are in the greenhouse industry, the membership is expanding to include poultry, dairy, food processing, and grain dryers. Throughout 2012 Business Venture will profile a local co-operative within our community, to celebrate the United Nations declaration of 2012 as the International Year of Co-operatives.

Ag Energy entered the solar energy market in 2006, at a time when there were many government incentives for alternative energy. To date the co-op has marketed the installation of over 60 microFIT solar systems in the province. In 2011, the decision was made to step back from the solar market in response to the member’s needs and the shift in government programs.

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Celebrating

30 years

O p e n in g

in downtown Guelph by Heather Grummett

mall business is something Gerry O’Farrell was surrounded by from the time he can remember. His father Edward O’Farrell, was a successful entrepreneur who often talked business with his children around the kitchen table. ”From a very young age we played Devils Advocate, trying to find flaws in the business plans my father would present to us,” says Gerry O’Farrell, Owner of the Flour Barrel. Throughout his career Edward was the owner of various small businesses including two retail paint stores, an industrial shelving company, and one of the last bustling country general stores in Ontario. Beginning at a young age, Gerry and his four siblings were always responsible for various jobs at the family business, from stocking shelves or cleaning coolers, to installing shelving, sweeping floors or just doing what needed to be done. “Growing up we earned our allowance working in the family business, there were always jobs needing to be done,” adds O’Farrell. With a strong background in the food industry, the senior O’Farrell also managed a variety of chain food stores including IGA and Knechtel. In the early1980’s, when the trend toward consumers purchasing food in bulk was really just beginning, he came up with the idea for one of the very first independently owned bulk food stores. With the goal of providing quality baking supplies, the Flour Barrel opened in 1982 on Wyndham St. N.–the same way many of his businesses opened, as a family business, and those who were available to

help with the start-up, pitched in. Now 30 years later, Flour Barrel owner Gerry O’Farrell looks back over his years at the downtown location. Carrying on the tradition of family and business, Gerry involved his children in the Flour Barrel at a young age. “It was a really big joy to have my kids be a part of it along the way,” says O’Farrell. “Having them work here reminded me of growing up with my dad’s businesses.” His three children have all worked at the store - stocking shelves, handing out samples, packing bags, helping customers and operating cash registers. While they helped in the family business, they were always learning important people skills, math skills and business skills along the way. Today, customers are welcomed to the Flour Barrel by a staff of eight, including long-time employee and General Manager, Heather Elliott–who has been with the store for 25 years.

e 1982. d a y, Ju n

COMMUNITY “It has been a great joy owning this store and I appreciate that the Flour Barrel has allowed myself and my family to be involved in this community,” adds O’Farrell. Over the years Flour Barrel has proudly sponsored many Grassroots community organizations and fundraisers. Whether it is students raising money with a bake sale, a church bazaar, or a neighbourhood group coming together to create community gardens, it is these small fundraisers making a

in s to r e . Son Luke

difference to the local community that O’Farrell enjoys supporting. The downtown location was even the food sponsor to students who were completing a four-week canoe trip down an Artic river. “I not only appreciate the work that many small neighbourhood organizations are doing, I also enjoy helping and learning from people in the community who are doing cool things.”

. s Parade n ta C la u a S e th m e r o n in h son Ca G e r r y w it

Congratulations to the Flour Barrel on 30 Years

Call 519.716.4859 November 2012 page 10

VENTURE GUELPH PUBLICATIONS LTD. Business Venture 19 years in 2012!

“ ne of the fun ways Heather and I are reminded that we’ve been in business this long, is when we meet people, here and there, around Guelph and they say ‘oh I recognize you, you’re the Flour Barrel guy/girl’. Often they will tell us a fond memory of when they were little kids and their mom would take them to the Flour Barrel, and they would get their favourite candy. Then they say ‘wow that was a long time ago!’”

athleen aughter K

& friend

Erika.

ORGANIC AND GLUTEN-FREE In a business that is very market driven, the Flour Barrel started out with a product line that didn’t include organics. Now the baking supplies food store carries over 100 organic products–including organic grains, flours, rice, sugar, oats, yogurts, teas, granolas, raisins, and more. “There is always a learning curve in food awareness. Currently that awareness is around wheat allergies. From that, the huge craze that has been growing over the last couple years is gluten-free products,” says O’Farrell. Currently carrying a dozen gluten-free flours, the Flour Barrel is bringing in more and more gluten-free products every month. The staff members at Flour Barrel have created a gluten-free flour blend substitute that is unique to the downtown store. The

flour mix allows customers to use all their favourite recipes without changing a thing–just substitute the mix where the wheat flour is called for. While there are other blends on the market, not all work well and often foods such as muffins or cakes rise less or end up under-whelming in taste or texture. This blend is just one example of how Flour Barrel takes the extra steps to provide their customers with superior products.

Gerry O’Farrell and Heather Elliott at the store front, 2012.

QUALITY SPECIALTY PRODUCTS

“Over the 30 years in business eating trends have come and gone. The trends in food have greatly changed from when we first opened. The general public is much more aware of food now–both the ingredients that go into their meals and the nutritional health benefits of those ingredients.” “It is a positive trend. When we opened wheat germ was the big thing and even unbleached flour was mostly unheard of–now people’s awareness has extended to newer retail products including Chia and Hemp seeds, omega oils, flax seed, coconut oil, Stevia and Agava sweeteners and many organics.” “We’ve grown by providing customers with those products as trends change. Our store continues to reflect the healthy choices that consumers are making and therefore the recipes our customers are making.” – Gerry O’Farrell, Owner of the Flour Barrel

Fresh specialty products are arriving at Flour Barrel every week. Specializing in flours, baking chocolates and grains, the specialty food store carries over 1500 products geared to those people who like to be in the kitchen, whether through baking or cooking. The quality base ingredients at Flour Barrel include:

100 different spices 30 types of flour 30 types of nuts 25 types of baking chocolate 20 types of seeds and grains 7 types of raisins

Happy 30th from all of us!

Thanks to you folks, it’s been a Barrel of Fun on Upper Wyndham for 30 Years. Cheers for all you do to keep it cooking (and baking) and here’s to at least 30 more!

Downtown Guelph Business Association, 42 Wyndham St., N., Suite 202 519.836.6144

With the festive season quickly approaching, the Flour Barrel provides customers with everything they need for their holiday baking. From glazed fruit, cherries, marzipan, icings, raisins, and currants–the baking supplies store sells over 1000 pounds of Christmas cake ingredients each year. A favourite place for customers to return to each holiday season, many arrive with recipes that have been handed down through the generations. In addition to bulk ingredients, customers can also choose from 100 different choices in specialty teas, a range of candy, and local Coneybeare Honey, plus cake pans and everything required for your decorating needs.

Horton Spice Mills Ltd. is a major player to the Canadian baking industry. www.hortonspicemills.com

downtownguelph.com

Congratulations to Gerry and staff for 30 successful years!

Your Bulk & Packaged Bulk Solution! 363 Elizabeth Street, Guelph, Ontario November 2012 page 11

VENTURE GUELPH PUBLICATIONS LTD. Business Venture 19 years in 2012!

(519) 824-3620

Business to Business New office location for Premium HR Solutions Premium HR Solutions (PHRS) has expanded their footprint in Guelph by moving to a new larger location within the same business plaza. The company, founded by the late Terry Doyle, started in Guelph more than 19 years ago and has a prestigious history in the region of giving back to the community, contributing to their clients success and providing results oriented human resources advice. PHRS team blend solid experience and sophisticated screening, technologies, assessments and testing to match job hunters with quality contract or permanent jobs at all levels from labour to skilled trade to professionals and executives, and in all local sectors

such as advanced manufacturing, distribution, technology, agriculture, food, education, business services, healthcare and bio sciences to only name a few. “The company name and slogan “Inspired hires for a dynamic workplace” has not changed its focus because both capture the team’s goal to provide the highest calibre of customer service, career opportunities and candidates available, while offering an array of Human Resources services that meet the needs of a changing employment climate and economy”, says Janet Roy, President. The new PHRS location is at Unit 15, 485 Silvercreek Parkway N. For more information contact 519-824-2428 or info@premiumhrsolutions.com.

Profiles, Technology, Legal, News & Announcements

Are you ignoring your conversion rates? by Tony Roy Of the five areas in which I coach profitability for business owners, increasing their conversion rate is generally the second easiest and most cost effective to help improve sales. Despite conversion rates being one of the easiest areas to focus on and improve in a business, from my experience, it is also the one most neglected by business owners. Here is how you can change that! If your business has a conversion rate from lead to sale of 20 percent and you increase that conversion rate to 30 percent–this is not just an increase of 10 percent; it's a 50 percent increase. This means that your revenues (on an average) would increase by 50 percent. How would that affect profitability? The key to increasing your conversion rate is to test and measure it at every level of your team's sales process. To do this you need to identify and breakdown your entire sales process into the smallest "chunks" possible so that you have a series of standardized "steps" your team performs with clients as

it takes them through the sales process. Measuring the conversion rates from step 1 to step 2, and so on–is key to measuring where your conversion rate is–great, good or indifferent! Have every team member measure their own conversion rates so that you identify individual conversion rates of your team members and then collate these ratios to obtain an overall team conversion rate for your sales. Next identify where the largest "bottlenecks" are for individuals and the team to work on improving the conversion rates. It is important that you understand that to be able to even identify the fact that you need to work on your conversion rate in specific areas requires you to first test and measure it. It is the key to increasing conversion rates, as I am sure you have heard before...You can only manage effectively what you are measuring. Tony Roy, Certified Business Coach, ActionCOACH can be contacted at 519-729-0033 or tonyroy@actioncoach.com

V E N T U R E G U E L P H P U B L I C AT I O N S LT D .

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The Premium HR Solutions team: L to R Top row: Laraine Lawrence; Stephanie Turchio; Janet Roy; Amanda Stevens; Jennifer Fairhall. Front row: Teri Gilchrist; Mandy Maldonado; Trisha Kalinowski.(Photo by Natasha Persaud, Venture Guelph Publications Ltd.)

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Staffing and Recruitment Services Pre-Employment Screening Services Assessments and Skill Testing Services Human Resource Management Consulting

www.premiumhrsolutions.com info@premiumhrsolutions.com T. 519.824.2428 November 2012 page 12

Edinburgh Optometry Clinic on Edinburgh Road in Guelph is set to receive $1,842 in incentives thanks to lighting upgrades made through the saveONenergy RETROFIT PROGRAMOM, available through Guelph Hydro and the Ontario Power Authority. Edinburgh Optometry Clinic is a family eye care clinic serving more than 100 people every day, six days a week. As a small business, they are always looking for ways to keep their costs down. In early 2012, they began looking at ways to reduce their electricity consumption, starting with their lights. The facility has overhead lights, lights in exam rooms, and lights in their spectacle frame displays. They began testing various energy-efficient LED (light emitting diode) light bulbs in an effort to replace their existing halogen bulbs, but were unable to find the right bulbs to meet their needs. When they heard about the RETROFIT PROGRAM, they connected with Guelph Hydro to learn more. The connection with Guelph Hydro helped the clinic find the solutions they needed. Experts assessed the clinic’s lighting needs and made recommendations on which bulbs to use. Guelph Hydro Energy Services Representative, Mark Britton, helped with the incentives paperwork and, when the work was complete, Edinburgh Optometry Clinic had replaced 123 50-watt MR16 halogen lights with LEDs and is projected to save $140 in electricity costs every month. “There has been no impact to the quality of light throughout the clinic, and the LEDs offered us a lot of flexibility, including dimmable bulbs and lights for our frame displays,” says Dr. Robert Miller, an optometrist at the clinic. LED efficiency goes even further because the bulbs last longer and emit no heat.“We were changing our halogen bulbs pretty regularly and having to shut them off in the summer because it would get so

warm,” says Dr. Miller. The LED lights will likely last 10 years. Edinburgh Optometry spent just over $3,500 to upgrade their lighting and will receive $1,842 in incentives through the RETROFIT PROGRAM. “You don’t see these kinds of savings in small businesses,” says Dr. Miller.“Changing those halogen bulbs to LEDs made a huge difference to our electricity costs, and the RETROFIT PROGRAM made the whole process easier.” Since 2007, Guelph Hydro Electric Systems Inc. has provided more than $1.3 million in Ontario Power Authority incentives for retrofit projects to businesses in Guelph. The RETROFIT PROGRAM is offered through local electricity distribution companies like Guelph Hydro and funded by the Ontario Power Authority, providing businesses with substantial financial incentives for replacing existing equipment with high-efficiency equipment and for installing new control systems that will improve the efficiency of operational procedures and processes. Local businesses interested in conducting their own retrofit project are encouraged to contact Guelph Hydro for direction on how to proceed. For more information about the RETROFIT PROGRAM, visit www.guelphhydro.saveonenergy.ca or contact Mark Britton at Guelph Hydro Electric Systems Inc. at 519-822-1750 (ext. 2240) or via email at mbritton@guelphhydro.com. Funded by Ontario Power Authority and offered by Guelph Hydro Electric Systems Inc. Subject to additional terms and conditions found at saveonenergy.ca. Subject to change without notice. OM Official mark of the Ontario Power Authority. Used under licence.

Business Venture is growing and includes a section on Guelph environmental initiatives. Are you contributing to a Green Guelph? If you have green business news or advice to share, please email us at infoventure@golden.net.

VENTURE GUELPH PUBLICATIONS LTD. Business Venture 19 years in 2012!

The

Business of Downtown

downtownguelph.com

Downtown is busy with economic activity by Marty Williams, Executive Director, Downtown Guelph

the right mix of residential, retail, recreational, office and institutional use (on top of 500 underground parking spots) makes the Baker site particularly important and complex. The city has had the foresight to not only acquire the necessary land, they have also engaged whip-smart economic development experts to help determine what and who belong there, and how we get it built. Downtown is humming with Need more proof that things are lively? How about this: economic activity. You can feel it. new storefronts are opening and old storefronts are getting facelifts. Vacancies are low, rents are steady, and New buildings are going up, and for streets are busy throughout the day and night. The the first time in the memory of lots of the major investment the City has made to public spaces has us “old timers” there are actually two already paid dividends in the form of increased foot, bike construction cranes in operation: one and car traffic that is spurring sales. It’s easy to get here and to get around Downtown. And with free street at the Gummer and one for the new parking two hours once a day (and after six at night), $2 to park all day in the lots on Saturday–and free unlimited Riverhouse Condos on Macdonell parking everywhere on Sunday–it’s easy to take your time Street. In both cases people are and see all the great things Downtown has in store. pounding down the doors to live in But there is a lot more going on than what you see at the street level. Thousands of office workers make these great new high-end units. On Downtown Guelph their five-day-a-week destination. day one of the sales office opening in Some, like the Co-operators, City Hall and Wellington Old Quebec Street, the Riverhouse County employ hundreds of folks; others are up and project saw over 200 people, many of comers, where dozens of people toil; others are two and three person start-ups, people who have moved from a whom put deposits down for units home office to Downtown, hanging out a shingle and building their entrepreneurial dreams where all the cool that haven’t started to be built yet. people hang out. (Tech and Design firms are especially That confidence is a great indication well-represented. They thrive on proximity to onethat there is pent up demand for another–and great coffee shops). Downtown Guelph is the one place in the city that the Guelph urban experience. combines live-work-play into one precinct. Following a Plans and studies are underway to add even more peo- trend in cities all over, people are demanding options that ple and jobs in the core. The Fusion Homes project at the suit their life and finding it in downtowns. For the first former Woods factory, another 18-story condo where the time in 100 years, inner-cities in the US are gaining in population faster than the suburbs there. That is an Marsh Tire store was (on Wellington at the railway trestle), and the Baker Street Parking Lot are in play. Finding astonishing statistic and one that has caught the notice

It’s a great time to do business in Downtown Guelph. Restaurants and stores are gearing up for the Christmas Season, and expectations are high. We know that with fantastic specialty shops, and with the best restaurants, pubs, and spas in the city, lots of holiday dollars will be spent here.

of lots of big players. Target, who are coming to Guelph, have launched a “City Target” brand that has rolled out in major centres. Likewise, Sobeys and Loblaws have developed “urban” stores in Toronto with little or no parking and tight-but-beautiful store displays. Galen Weston, Loblaw’s executive chairman, said (in canadiangrocer.com) “We’ve re-imagined the large urban supermarket. The layout understands that today’s urban shopper shops differently at different times.” As well, Rona has stated a strategy is to build small in developed parts of towns. All these concepts are proving to be very popular. So ask yourself, how long before major brands discover the charms of Downtown Guelph and bring with them their retail and marketing muscle? It’s an intriguing thought, and with all that is going on here I firmly believe that saying “it’s a great time to do business in Downtown Guelph” is solidly and simply true.

November 2012 page 13 VENTURE GUELPH PUBLICATIONS LTD. Business Venture 19 years in 2012!

Real Estate

New Homes, Residential & Commercial

Re-branding for Park Capital

Skyline COO and Co-Founder, Roy Jason Ashdown, looks out over downtown Guelph from the balcony of one of 18 residential suites in the Gummer building. (Photo by Natasha Persaud, Venture Guelph Publications Ltd.)

Downtown construction at the Gummer Building nears completion by Heather Grummett Reconstruction of the downtown Gummer Building is nearing completion, with tenants scheduled to move in for December. Now deemed a heritage site by the City of Guelph, Skyline acquired the historical Gummer Building, Victoria Building and Stewart Drugs Building on Douglas Street, which were all damaged by fire in April of 2007. Having redeveloped the site, Skyline has preserved the facades and other historical features of the buildings while creating a modern, eco-sensitive commercial and residential complex in the centre of downtown. Skyline will consolidate approximately 50 employees from their Fountain St. and Scottsdale Dr. offices to one main location, taking up the entire third floor at 1 Douglas Street. The six-storey building combines main floor retail, second and third floor office space, with the top three floors as residential apartments. A contemporary fitness facility in the lower level is available to all tenants, both residential and commercial. With the majority of the retail space rented, downtown patrons will soon have access to a new yogourt franchise, a 4000 square foot Italian restaurant with patio, and a hearing clinic. One main level 3300 square foot retail suite is still available to lease.

Guelph’s Park Capital Commercial Real Estate Brokerage has recently re-branded as NAI Park Capital and is now part of NAI Global Commercial Real Estate Group, based in New Jersey, U.S. NAI Global is the premier managed network of independent commercial real estate firms and one of the largest commercial real estate service providers worldwide. NAI Global manages a network of 5,000 professionals and 350 offices in 55 countries throughout the world. NAI professionals work together to help clients strategically optimize their real estate assets. NAI offices around the world complete over $45 billion in transactions annually and manage over 300 million square feet of commercial space. Located on Dawson Road, NAI Park Capital was founded in 1995 as a fully licensed, full-service Industrial/ Commercial real estate brokerage serving Southwestern Ontario. Their main focus of business concentrates on the sales, leasing and management of commercial and industrial properties; sales of investment properties to local and offshore investors; as well as mortgage brokerage services.

Over half the office space is already rented in this high profile building, with only 11,500 square feet remaining. An additional 5000 square feet of lower level basement space is also available, whether for office or retail. Well-lit and well designed with high ceilings, this is a great space at a reasonable rate and can be divided to suit a tenant’s needs. Available are one, two, and three bedrooms suites, some with dens; these 18 luxury apartments offer tenants spacious layouts overlooking the city and Downtown Guelph. Complete with six appliances, each unit includes all kitchen appliances including microwave and dishwasher as well as in-suite laundry. Each suite is finished with engineered hardwood, granite counters and high-end millwork throughout. Private balconies are offered in seven suites, with all tenants sharing a common rooftop terrace with stunning views of downtown Guelph and Church of our Lady. Top floor suites with floor to ceiling glass offer spectacular views down Douglas Street. The upper scale suites rent for $1100 to $2000 per month and are already 50% leased with tenants moving in for December first.

For more information visit www.skylineonline.ca

Experience downtown living–RiverHouse Condominiums by Heather Grummett

Visit our newly designed web site at

ventureguelph.ca Submit events to our community and business calendar and more!

Preview pricing is now available for downtown Guelph’s newest residence. Tricar Group introduces RiverHouse Condominiums - urban living at its best. The one-of-a-kind condominiums are located at the intersection of MacDonell and Woolwich Streets, just steps from specialty shops and dining, the River Run Centre, Sleeman Centre and trails along the river. Around the corner, Guelph’s new transit hub offers residents quick access to the bus, VIA Rail and the GO Train. The 18-storey RiverHouse offers 130 grand suites overlooking downtown and the river. A selection of one, two and two bedroom plus den suites range in size from 1000 square feet. Eight spacious penthouse suites are housed on the top two floors, with the largest at 3400 square feet.

Preminum high-end finishes start with wide plank five-inch engineered hardwood flooring in the main living areas, and designer porcelain tiles in the foyers, kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms. Each kitchen comes with custom cabinets and granite counter tops, plus four stainless steel appliances. Residents also have the convenience of a full-sized front load washer and dryer in every suite. Whether you are looking to relax or entertain friends, the amenities at RiverHouse fit all your needs. Indoors there’s a fully equipped fitness center and a resident lounge, complete with a billard table, bar and lounge seating. A private dining room with caterer’s kitchen seats 12 and is available for private functions. Residents can relax with a book in the library or reserve the

November 2012 page 14 VENTURE GUELPH PUBLICATIONS LTD. Business Venture 19 years in 2012!

private theatre room with large screen television for movie night. A beautifully landscaped outdoor terrace with Western exposure is great place to gather with friends. Plus, a guest suite is available for out of town guests, at a minimal cost. Suites are selling now with a June 2014 occupancy. Prices start in the mid $200,000 range to just over $1 million. Common expenses are priced at 24 cents per square foot, and include heat, air and water, with residents responsible for only hydro costs on top. Each unit includes one underground parking space.

Visit the sales office in Old Quebec St. during the hours of Monday to Wednesday 12pm to 6pm and Saturday, Sunday 12pm to 5pm.

21 Malcolm Road, Guelph 340 Woodlawn Road West, Guelph

485 Silvercreek Parkway North, Guelph

Units of approx. 2,500 SF of commercial space available in high-traffic area. Up-to 7,500 SF of contiguous space available. Easy access to Hanlon Expressway. Ideal for restaurant, office or service establishments. Minimum Rent: From $9.00/SF.

Units from 700 SF available in plaza located at Woodlawn Road and Silvercreek Parkway. Up-to approx. 4,320 SF of contiguous space available. Easy access from Hanlon Expressway. Ample free on-site parking. Minimum Rent: From $11.00/SF.

50 Cork Street East, Guelph Approx. 1,150 SF of second storey office space available in professional building. Located downtown Guelph within walking distance to all downtown amenities (ie: banks, restaurants, etc.). Across from Cork Street municipal parking lot. On-street parking also available. Minimum Rent: $8.50/SF.

8,320 SF freestanding industrial building for sale conveniently located with easy access to Guelph and Waterloo Region markets. Features approx. 2,000 SF of finished office space. Three drive-in loading doors (one with internal leveler). 16’ clear ceiling height. 200 Amp electrical service. Paved, fenced-in yard. Asking Price: $880,000.00.

+/- 35,500 SF industrial space for lease in centrally located building. Features 17’ clear ceiling height, 2 dock-level and 2 drive-in loading doors. Includes approx. 3,800 SF of office space. Minimum Rent: $3.75/SF.

76 Dawson Road, Guelph

Multi-Residential Development Land, Guelph

Approx. 30,800 SF freestanding industrial building on 1.79 Acres for sale. Easy access to Hanlon Expressway. Features approx. 3,800 SF of professional office space. Loading facilities include 2 dock-level doors and 2 drive-in doors. 600 Amp electrical service. Ideal for light manufacturing. Building also available for lease. Asking Price: $1,799,000.00.

Approx. 4.06 Acre multi-residential development site available in growing residential area. Zoning in place for approx. 165 units. Full municipal services available. Rare opportunity.

15 Surrey Street West, Guelph Approx. 2,537 SF available in professional service plaza. Free on-site parking. Close to downtown amenities. On bus-route. Located next to established medical centre. Ideal for professional/medical office. Minimum Rent: $14/SF.

10 Kingsmill Avenue, Guelph

www.naiparkcapital.com

76 Dawson Rd, P.O. Box 923 Guelph, ON N1H 6M6 tel: 519 824 9900 fax: 519 824 2471 email: info@naiparkcapital.com

The Brokerage and its agents have relied upon the owner and other sources for the information provided in this material and although we believe it to be substantially accurate, it is all subject to verification by the prospective purchaser or tenant and his/her/its respective legal, tax and other advisors. The Brokerage and its agents assume no liability for the accuracy or use of this information in any manner by anyone and reliance upon or use of this information by anyone is solely at his/her/its own risk. The Brokerage and its agents reserve the right to change prices, terms and other conditions or withdraw the property from sale and/or lease without notice. This material does not constitute an offer for sale or lease. Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale or lease, or to entice parties to breach any existing agency contracts.

Now Renting for December 1, 2012

The G ummer FEATURES

Only 18 Residential Suites Available! • 1, 2, 3, Bedroom Suites

Visit skylineliving.ca for more information or call 519-826-0439

• Heating and Air Conditioning Included • In-suite Laundry • Communal Terrace • On-site Fitness Facility • Parking Permits Available • Amazing Views • Huge Balconies

Douglas Street, Downtown Guelph November 2012 page 15

VENTURE GUELPH PUBLICATIONS LTD. Business Venture 19 years in 2012!

INSPIRED BY

HISTORY BUILT FOR

ELEGANCE

NOW SELLING GRAND CONDOMINIUM SUITES With p a n o ra m i c city and river views, RIVERHOUSE CONDOMINIUMS o f fe r s an e x q u i s i t e c o l l e c t i o n o f su i t e s a n d p e nt h o u s e s w i t h l a rg e t e r ra c e s a n d o p u l e nt i nt e r i o r s . E x p e r i e n c e t h e m a g n i f i c e nt R i v e r C l u b , w i t h i t s luxurious amenities that include a 4th floor t e r ra c e w i t h c a b a n a s a n d s t o n e f i re p l a c e , P a r t y & B i l l i a rd s R o o m , F i t n e s s C e nt re , L i b ra r y Lo u n g e a n d m o re .

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tricar.com Exclusive Listing Brokerage, Planet Realty Inc., Brokers Protected. *Sizes, prices and speciﬁcations are subject to change without notice. E. & O. E. October, 2012.

VENTURE GUELPH PUBLICATIONS LTD. Business Venture 19 years in 2012!

Transit not meeting needs of users by Heather Grummett

EVENTS

ABC's of Marketing & Marketing Plan November, 12 1 pm - 3 pm How do you get your idea or product known in the marketplace? Look at the basic process of focusing on your target market to create an effective marketing plan.

Business seminar series The Guelph-Wellington Business Enterprise Centre offers the following two-hour business seminars for $32 or 5 seminars for $130 incl. HST. For information on upcoming topics and to register visit www.guelphbusiness.com.

Social Media Marketing November, 8 1 pm - 3 pm This seminar will cover whether or not social media is for you, how others have successfully used social media, and how to measure the success or failure of your social media campaigns.

3-512

Zak Mekhail, (left) owner of Zak’s Jewellers, with Manager Max Gobran at the new retail location on Kortright Road. (supplied photo)

New independent jeweller opens in south end Zak’s Jewellers recently opened as a new business at 210 Kortright Road West. Located in the same plaza as the Fat Duck pub, the new retail jewellery location is owned by Zak Mekhail. Having served Guelph as a jeweller for 22 years in the Stone Road Mall, the diamond expert now looks forward to seeing customers, new and old, at his showroom. The retail space showcases pearls, birthstones, emeralds, sapphires, diamonds and opals. Beautiful gold settings are available, plus a more affordable line of silver and surgical steel. Many items, which not displayed, are easily ordered. An expert in custom design and near flawless execution, Mekhail can also create unique oneof-a-kind pieces. Rings, pendants and more are designed to meet the customer’s specifications. The unique pieces are then moulded to perfection, cast, and the stones of choice are placed

WOOLWICH STREET,

GUELPH ON N1H 3X7 TEL.: 837-3111 http://www.weiler.ca

SCION

www.guelphtoyota.com November 2012 page 17

ALLOW YOU TO DO WHAT YOU DO BEST…YOUR BUSINESS

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info@synergenics.ca 47 Lewis Road, GUELPH

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635 Woodlawn Rd. W. 519-837-3340 Hours: Monday - Thursday 9-9 Friday 9-6 Saturday 9-5

into the setting. An extensive children’s line has a lifetime warranty and includes a selection of necklaces, pendants, earrings, rings, and charms, plus special occasion pieces for baptism, first communion, and graduations. Zak’s is also the exclusive authorized dealer for the Guelph area with the Amore & Baci line. Similar to the well-known Pandora line, Amore & Baci offers over 2000 high quality pieces for both children and adults, in a more affordable price range. Zak’s is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday 10 to 6, and Thursday, Friday 10 to 8. After hour consultations in the high security premises can also be made by appointment to accommodate your needs. For more information call 519-265-8897 or visit www.zaksjewellers.com.

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VENTURE GUELPH PUBLICATIONS LTD. Business Venture 19 years in 2012!

Hanlon Expressway

unintended results of the new schedule has been a serious accessibility issue for many transit users. They are now unable to conveniently reach their needed destination downtown since most of the previous stops in St. Georges Square have been moved away from the centre of downtown.” City staff met in mid October to address the transit concerns. At the meeting, Derek McCaughan, Executive Director of Operations and Transit said running buses on Wyndham St. instead of Woolwich St. would require an approximate $250,000 investment for a complete a route alignment and redesigned entry points for some buses. Members of the operations and transit committee then voted for staff to determine the cost of a shuttle bus to run from the transit terminal to points on Upper Wyndham. A meeting later in the month had committee members moving away from the proposed shuttle, with the new suggestion of a proposed bus stop created at the top of Wyndham at Woolwich St. The costs associated with this short-term project could come close to $25,000, to cut the sidewalk down to the proper level; an amount that staff needs to find in this year’s budget. With the proposed change transit staff remain very concerned with buses making connections on time. “We feel this can be easily settled, we are just asking for two additional stops downtown. I am disappointed they didn’t even choose to add a couple temporary stops to test out the time and cost involved,” states Williams. “It’s not like the system is working well across the city. I have heard there are gaps everywhere with buses not meeting transfers on time. If this is actually the case, they need to re-think why they aren’t cutting routes elsewhere across the city, and transit should be advocating for the resources to have routes re-designed for better customer satisfaction–which includes being dropped off in the centre of downtown.”

Imperial Rd.

While many regular customers continue to shop at their favourite stores downtown, many merchants on Upper Wyndham St. and Quebec St. have heard from long time customers who feel it is now too difficult or inconvenient to walk the extra distance from the new transit station. As well, many businesses have noticed a great decline in foot traffic since the bus terminal has moved to Carden St., and therefore a decline in walk-in traffic. While there is support for the new transit depot, it is the removal of bus stops along the main street that has merchants concerned. “The DGBA supports the improvements that have been made to transit by moving the transit hub to Carden St.,” says Marty Williams, Executive Director for the Downtown Guelph Business Association.“We have a good system, however we have some gaps in it. Our main street no longer has buses running on it. We have buses coming from the Northeast and Northwest, which get to the intersection of Wyndham and Woolwich, and instead of coming through the busiest part of downtown, they go around it.” “Businesses and residents have been negatively impacted by these gaps,” adds Williams.“We have people who want to access businesses and services that, for a whole range of reasons, are having a hard time getting there; for some it has become impossible.” “There is an important segment of people, who need to use transit to visit downtown for various reasons,” says Howard Budd, President, Budd Stores Co, Ltd.“Many of these people have lived in Guelph all or most of their lives. They have raised families, paid taxes and volunteered their time to make Guelph a very special city for everyone.” “We all appreciate the beautiful new transit terminal and the general improvement the system has made. However, when most new systems are evaluated there are some adjustments that can be made to make things even better,” adds Budd.“One of the

Speedvale Ave.

*Limited time finance offer available from Toyota Financial Services on approved credit. Representative finance example based on an all-in price of $25,000. All-in price includes freight and fees (PDE, EHF, OMVIC fee and air condition tax, where applicable). HST, licensing, registration and insurance are extra. 0% purchase finance APR for 72 months equals a bi-weekly payment of $160 for 156 bi-weekly payments with a down payment or trade equivalent of $0. Cost of borrowing is $0, for a total obligation of $25,000. Offer is valid between October 2 and 31, 2012, on select remaining 2012 vehicles and is subject to change without notice. All rights are reserved. Please see your participating Ontario Toyota dealer for details.

Finance

Are mutual funds dead? Most of us have been grieving for a very long time about the lacklustre performance of our mutual fund portfolios and the sentiment I am hearing from clients is that it is time to say our goodbyes to this product and bury them. Many experts think that it will likely be a long time before mutual funds come back to their glory days, if ever. Quite frankly, I don’t know a lot of people who ever got extremely wealthy from mutual fund investments even in the glory days. Whether it is from global influences, inflation or poor timing of when the investment was made, it has been a struggle to maintain an equity portfolio that provides retirement guarantees. The institutional investors (pension funds) are running into similar problems as well. In

by John Moran

order to negate the volatility and uncertainty of the equity markets it is not uncommon now for these fund managers to have an average of almost 40% of the investment holdings in products not related to either the TSX or Dow Jones. These holdings include commercial property ownership, mortgage investments and even hockey teams (teacher’s pension fund)–the point is though that owning some alternative investments in one’s portfolio is going to be critical to future investing success. If you examine the performance of equity markets from 1950 to the year 2000 you see a graph that is continually rising (yes-there are bear and bull markets throughout this period)

Short-term may help the long-term goal In our last article in Business Venture, we discussed earning higher rates of return on short-term investments. The following article describes specific types of short-term instruments: Treasury Bills - T-Bills are short-term notes issued by the Government of Canada or by Canadian Provinces. They have varying terms to maturity, up to one year. Treasury Bills do not bear interest. Instead, they are sold at a discount to their face value, and the annual yield or interest rate is determined by the difference between the discounted purchase price and the maturity value. Government of Canada T-Bills are considered to be virtually risk-free, and can be traded at any time.

Business and Personal

Banker’s Acceptances - A Banker’s Acceptance (BA) is a commercial draft (i.e. a written instruction to make payment) drawn by a borrower for payment on a specified date. Issue terms range from one day to one year. Each Banker’s Acceptance is “accepted” or guaranteed at maturity by the borrower’s bank. BA’s are suitable for money market investors accepting bank credit risk in return for a higher yield over Government of Canada T-Bills. Commercial Paper - Commercial Paper is a promissory note, which can be secured or unsecured, issued by a corporation or trust. Issue terms range from one day to one year. Commercial Paper ranks equal, or senior, to

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but there is a significant levelling after the turn of the century. What we are really seeing is this: up to the 1990’s we really experienced a North American economy and the markets reflected that growth. Now though, it is a global economy that influences the market values daily and creates the volatility we are getting tired of dealing with. Take the time to investigate investment alternatives. Talk to your financial advisor about investments that are not correlated to the TSX. Failure to do so is going to result in more of the same in your portfolio returns for the foreseeable future. John Moran BA, EPC, President of Lyon Financial Services, 519-766-0001 or jmoran@lyonfinancial.ca.

by Matthew Phillips unsecured long-term debt, and junior to secured debt. Corporations that access the money market are large firms with an established financial history and rating agencies rank the paper according to the issuer’s ability to meet short-term debt obligations. These types of issues are suitable for money market investors who are willing to accept a corporate credit in order to obtain a higher yield. Short term bonds and strip coupons - In addition to money market securities, bonds and strip coupons that were originally issued/created with a longer-term maturity do eventually mature. In the Canadian fixed income marketplace, once securities reach within one year of maturity, they are no longer included in the various debt market indices, and begin to trade in closer relation to money market instruments. However, given their lower liquidity and availability in comparison to money market instruments (primarily due to the smaller issue size), short-term bonds and strip coupons will often trade at a small yield premium. Hence, these securities can offer individual money market investors an enhanced return. Matthew Phillips, CIM, FCSI, Richardson GMP Limited. 519-780-4171 or Matthew.Phillips@RichardsonGMP.com The opinions expressed in this report are the opinions of the author and readers should not assume they reflect the opinions or recommendations of Richardson GMP Limited or its affiliates. Richardson GMP Limited, Member Canadian Investor Protection Fund. Richardson is a trade-mark of James Richardson & Sons, Limited. GMP is a registered trade-mark of GMP Securities L.P. Both used under license by Richardson GMP Limited.

Ontario AGRICentre 100 Stone Road West, Suite 301, Guelph Telephone: 519.822.4680 Fax: 519.822.1583 Toll-Free: 1.866.658.0092 www.millerthomson.com

The price of money by Carinta Mannarelli In the coming month, HRM Queen Elizabeth II will look better than ever as her face dons the front of our new Canadian $20 bill. Canada will add a polymer $20 bill to the $50 and the $100 already in circulation. The introduction of the $100 and the $50 met with some resistance as the media told tales of currency melting in the sunlight and becoming sticky when wet. The introduction of the $20 will have a much different impact. There are currently 845 million $20 paper notes in circulation. The upfront financial cost to replace all of these notes is not insignificant. The decision to introduce these notes did consider financial impact, and the financial impact is largely positive. The new notes have a life expectancy of 7.5 years (compared to 3 years for paper notes). Lasting 2.5 years longer while in circulation means that although the per unit cost is more expensive to produce, production levels will be much lower. The most significant cost savings that the new polymer notes promise is the reduction of counterfeit banknotes in circulation. At the peak of counterfeit note production in 2004, approximately thirteen million dollars was seized in counterfeit banknotes. This means that citizens and businesses faced combined losses of $13,000,000 in 2004 at the hands of counterfeiting criminals. When security measures on banknotes were heightened, this number plummeted to only four million dollars in 2006. The introduction of new polymer notes promises further reductions to this number. Having been burned by counterfeit money a few times myself, I appreciate that the cost to replace these notes are going to be worth it at the end of the day. For more information on polymer notes, or to see samples of the other 32 countries that currently produce polymer notes, feel free to visit Global Currency Services Inc at 1027 Gordon Street. Carinta Mannarelli, President, Global Currency Services Inc. 519-763-7330 or www.global-currency.com

Funeral Home and Chapel Ltd.

“Wellington County's Oldest Family Owned Funeral Home”

Pre-arranging one's own funeral is now widely practiced across Canada. Gilbert MacIntyre & Son have been helping individuals and families with funeral prearrangements for almost 80 years. If you would like to make an appointment to discuss prearrangements, please contact us. Or, if you like, you can prearrange your funeral online. You will be asked the same basic questions you would in a one-on-one prearrangement meeting; but within the "comfort" of your own lifestyle. Our experience in dealing with prearranging funerals has lead to the development of the GILBERT MACINTYRE & SON TRUST PLAN for those who wish to pre-pay their funeral expenses.

Info@gilbertmacintyreandson.com

www.gilbertmacintyreandson.com November 2012 page 18

Representing three generations of funeral service - Established in 1933

75 Years–2008

The GILBERT MACINTYRE & SON TRUST PLAN retains all the advantages of the pre-arranged funeral, but goes further with respect to the ﬁnancial advantages. · The GILBERT MACINTYRE & SON TRUST PLAN is hedge against inflation. The cost of the funeral will never increase, no matter how long it is before the funeral services are required. · Pre-payment reduces the financial demands on the survivors. Costs will be paid out of income now, rather than from much needed funds of the estate. · Like a paid-up life insurance policy, this plan is of immediate and far-reaching benefit to survivors.

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· Interest on funds held in a GILBERT MACINTYRE & SON TRUST PLAN is tax free. · The GGILBERT MACINTYRE & SON TRUST PLAN may be purchased on a convenient time payment plan. Usually the prearrangment service is entirely paid for by the time it is needed, thereby relieving the family of expense at the time of the funeral. · Money is held in trust and fully refundable any time.

The GILBERT MACINTYRE & SON TRUST PLAN is designed to comply with all regulations under the Funeral Services Act of Ontario and is fully insured.

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519 833-1150 or cell 647 403-1020 November 2012 page 19

VENTURE GUELPH PUBLICATIONS LTD. Business Venture 19 years in 2012!

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Subject to additional terms and conditions found at saveonenergy.ca. Subject to change without notice. Funded by the Ontario Power Authority and offered by Guelph Hydro Electric Systems Inc. A mark of the Province of Ontario protected under Canadian trade-mark law. Used under sublicence. OMOfficial Mark of the Ontario Power Authority. Used under licence.

November 2012 page 20

VENTURE GUELPH PUBLICATIONS LTD. Business Venture 19 years in 2012!