September 2007 - Timmins Chamber of Commerce
Transcription
September 2007 - Timmins Chamber of Commerce
G’s Carpet Cleaning & Services • Carpet Cleaning • Upholstery Cleaning • Strip & Wax Floors • Spring Clean-Up “We don’t cut corners. We clean them” 107 Fifth Ave. Timmins Tel: 360-2027 • Page: 360-6710 inside business CAROL SWEEZEY (LAFRANCE) Agente D’imm / Sales Rep 360-8123 BI-MONTHLY SEPTEMBER 2007 Pager 264-5364 REALTY LTD. Brokerage www.crworks.com/carolsweezey A TIMMINS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PUBLICATION Economic plan to encourage redevelopment City Council has approved a Community Improvement Plan (CIP), setting the wheels in motion for businesses in downtown Timmins, South Porcupine and parts of Schumacher to make upgrades to their facilities. The grant programs aim to foster the redevelopment of existing businesses and encourage new business and housing in the downtown cores. “This plan is a historic event for the City and will be a catalyst to revitalize the downtown areas,” said Mark Jensen, director of development services. As of late August, eight properties had been approved for improvement, with four more waiting for approval. According to Community Development Planner Andrea Griener, most of the approved grant applicants are for facade improvements. However, one application was for a complete demolition and some facade projects have a demolition component. The deadline for applications is the end of September. The Community Improvement Plan and grant programs were developed after consulting with the public, local businesses and building owners, and after reviewing other municipalities’ programs including North Bay, Sault Ste. Marie, Barrie and Hamilton. For 2007, the city has set aside $200,000 for the CIP grants. The grant amounts vary by program and there is a maximum grant amount of $50,000 per building. Details of the program include: ■ Facade improvement grants can be up to 50 per cent of costs to a maximum of $15,000 to enhance the outer appearance of buildings (including signage). ■ Building code upgrade grants can be up to 50 per cent of costs up to $45,000 to improve accessibility, develop upper storey residential housing, and improve health and safety for the building. ■ Demolition and tipping fee assistance can be up to 50 per cent of costs up to $50,000. ■ Study assistance grants can be up to 50 per cent of costs up to $5,000 for design, engineering, or business plans. ■ Not-for Profit organizations may apply for a festival and event grant for 50 per cent of costs up to $3,000 to host public events or develop programming in the downtown areas. ■ The CIP areas are designated as “No Fee Zones” and fees, including building permit fees, minor variance application fees and other fees, may be waived. Application forms can be obtained from the Development Services Department at City Hall (main floor). Most applications will require permits and a minimum of two quotes for the work to be done. Completed, accepted applications will be approved for funding by the Development Services Department on a first-come, first-served basis. President loud and clear on helping members Marilyn Wood has no trouble admitting she enjoys policy work. In fact, she is hoping that others will come to share her passion for the finer points of government protocol. “When they hear the word policy, peoples’ eyes role back in their heads,” joked Wood. “What they need to realize is that policies are just issues of concern that we need to be proactive about.” When Wood is sworn in as president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce on Sept. 13, she intends to make government policy a priority. She plans to work with board members to evaluate policy at all three levels of government and how it affects the 650 Chamber members. If a policy is going to adversely affect the membership, you can bet Wood will be loud and clear in voicing the concerns of the members. “If you say nothing, it’s guaranteed you’re not going to get any improvements,” she said. “In my experience I’ve learned that you must lobby the government consistently, with hard facts to support your position. Representing the views of the Chamber to government is really important to me.” Wood, who moved to Timmins from Whitby 15 years ago, has plenty of experience in dealing with government. As CEO of Timmins-based Mikro-Tek Inc., she has been instrumental in obtaining product registration with Agriculture Canada, establishing markets domestically, and in setting up international distribution and agency agreements. Mikro-Tek, a bio-tech company, was established in 1990 and has developed a technology to increase carbon sequestration through the application and management of naturally-occurring soil fungi called mycorrhizae. The proprietary technology increases the survival rate and growth of plants. In recent years, work has focused on generating carbon credits from forestry projects in Chile that incorporate this technology. These offset credits are then sold to large industries to help them reach their greenhouse gas emission reduction targets. One of the challenges of dealing with government, Wood explained, is that new rules are constantly being written that affect business. She admits the uncertainty can be overwhelming at times, yet it has also made her want to reach out to other small business owners. “Instead of just complaining, we have to become empowered — we have to become positively engaged,” she said. “The saddest part is when people don’t believe they have the power to change things.” Wood is a cabinet-appointed member of the Small Business Agency of Ontario, whose mandate is to advise the Ontario government on issues related to small business such as reducing regulations and paper burden. She previously served on the board of the Timmins Economic Development Corporation, as president of the Timmins Learning Centre, and as a member of the Timmins Export Club. She has also had experience working with the Mushkegowuk First Nations communities. Wood replaces Ken Petersen as president, who moves into the position of immediate past president. Marilyn Wood: President elect Experience the benefits of expertise As benefits consultants, our first task is to clearly understand our client’s coverage requirements and adapt them to their budgetary objectives. We then secure quotations from various insurers, including the exclusive Chamber of Commerce Plan, analyze the information and package our recommendations in order to MARC R. BRAZEAU, RHU implement a cost-effective group benefits plan. Our unique in-house Third Party Administration (TPA) and Cost-Plus services are some of the distinguishing features that set us apart from other firms. These in-house services can be an effective cost-containing tool when managing a group benefits plan. Within our expertise is the ability to review, implement and manage group retirement and executive compensation strategies best-suited to our client’s needs. Eclipse Financial is a firm well positioned to guide you when considering matters which affect both your day-to-day operation and your bottom line. YVAN BRAZEAU 876 Riverside Drive | Timmins | 705.267.1234 | 800.461.0389 | Fax: 705.267.7283 | www.ef.ca inside business 2 - SEPTEMBER 2007 Record growth highlights banner year for Chamber Ken Petersen is moving out of the driver’s seat, but he’s not about to take a back seat in the Timmins Chamber of Commerce. As is tradition, Petersen will turn the Chamber presidency over to Marilyn Wood on Sept. 13, ending an eventful and ultimately productive year. He will assume the role of immediate past president, meaning he will still be active in Chamber business. “This has certainly been a learning experience for me,” reflected Petersen. “I have learned a lot in dealing with different stakeholders, getting into diverse issues. We’ve jumped into tax issues and government interpretation of rules. The Chamber has a strong team and we’ve been able to accomplish quite a bit.” Of all the Chamber accomplishments, Petersen is most proud of the fact that membership has increased by 13 per cent — the largest single-year increase in the 58-year history of the organization. He credits the strong economy, and the fact that businesses are realizing the Chamber can save them money through member-to-member benefit programs, most notably the NorthernTel cell phone plan and the Grand & Toy Affinity Program. He also stated that the Chamber’s voice is heard throughout Ontario on important issues facing our members. This year the Chamber was awarded the Ontario Chamber of Commerce lobbying award for working with the City of Timmins to reduce business taxes by 13 per cent. Here are just some of the important policy issues Petersen has championed: Energy costs – Chamber members identified high energy prices as the most important issue for them. Petersen spearheaded a lobbying campaign, urging the province to fix energy prices at $45 per MWhr. “The government needs to view electricity as an economic develop tool,” he said. Diamond Tax – Shock and awe was felt in the mining community when the provincial government introduced a diamond tax in the 2007 budget. “This is not just a De Beers issue,” said Petersen. “This damages the investment climate in Ontario when a company makes a $1 billion investment and then has the tax rules changed on them so drastically.” Revenue Sharing - The Chamber also requested that the government consider revenue haring not just on diamond resources, but on all natural resources. Communities that are affected by natural resource development need to benefit from some of the taxes currently going to Queen’s Park and Ottawa. Wood flow – With mills closing throughout northern Ontario, the provincial government has diverted the flow of crown wood out of the region without consulting with affected stakeholders. “We have spoken out against government not speaking to business and communities,” Petersen said. Labour shortage – The shortage of skilled workers continues to be an issue in northern Ontario. During his year as president, Petersen was pro-active in working with the Far Northeast Training Board to help remedy the situation. “We looked into what the needs are of businesses in terms of skilled workers. Then we worked with the Far Northeast Training Board to identify training programs and solutions.” Overall, Petersen considers himself fortunate to have led the Chamber during a year of economic prosperity in Timmins. He cites a National Post study that named Timmins as one of the five hottest economies in North America and a Re/Max survey that found Timmins had the highest increase in housing prices in all of Ontario at 29 per cent. “Timmins is on fire,” he said with a knowing grin. 2007-08 Board election results The members have spoken. The Timmins Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the voting results for its 2007-08 Board of Directors election. Voting was conducted by mail-in ballot between mid-June and July 13. A total of 303 ballots were received representing 32.4 per cent of eligible voting members casting their ballots. A total of eight new members have been elected to the 21-person volunteer Board. They will be sworn in at the Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting, to be held Sept. 13 at the Days Inn. “I am pleased that so many members have exercised their voting rights in our Board election,” said 2007-08 incoming Chamber President Marilyn Wood. “The eight new members of our Board bring experience, business acumen, and the passion to make Timmins a better place to conduct business for our members. All candidates should be commended for seeking election – it certainly reflects their desire to take a leadership position in the business community.” 2007-08 INCOMING BOARD MEMBERS Director Company Phil Barton ............................................................Algonquin Business Computers Judy Daschuk ............................................................................National Car Rental Terry DiTullio ................................................................Norfab Metal and Machine Fred Gibbons ..............................Northern College of Applied Arts & Technology Barry Martin................................................................B.H. Martin Consultants Ltd. Mark McCormick ..............................................................................The UPS Store Michael Metatawabin ........................................................Five Nations Energy Inc. Ken Rivers ..........................................................................Porcupine Air & Electric 2007-08 APPOINTED BOARD MEMBERS Position Name Company President Marilyn Wood..............................................Mikro-Tek Inc. Past President Ken Petersen ......................................Petersen Consulting 1st Vice President Rob Galloway ....Galloway & Galloway Executive Services 2nd Vice President Dan Charbonneau ......................................Gord’s Rentals Treasurer Cheryl Corbeil ..................................................Scotiabank Executive Members Joel Bergeron ........BMT Insurance and Financial Services Bruce Cowan ............................................The Daily Press Art Pultz ......Rogers Communications Inc. (Q92/EZ Rock) Gary Marriott ..................................................NorthernTel Board Members Micheal Miller ................................Mamo-Nuskomitowin Lorenzo Melchiorre ..................................Xstrata Copper Esko Vainio ............................Timmins & District Hospital Josh Bond ........Riopelle Griener Professional Corporation Fully Licensed Mechanical Service Centre Not just tires anymore! Now offering ... Member of the Month for September Keitha Robson (left) Timmins Chamber of Commerce general manager, and Marilyn Wood (right) 2007-08 president, present Grand & Toy manager Diane Bergeron (second from left) and Senior Retail Associate Mary Perratt (second from right) with the Chamber of Commerce Member of the Month award for September. • Safety Inspections • Alignments and front ends • Full diagnostics • Oil changes and coolant flush • Call Desiree Ashby or Brian Courville to receive the ROYAL treatment 2090 Riverside Drive West (Across from Home Depot) • 267-TIRE (8473) inside business SEPTEMBER 2007 - 3 Three-point action plan takes aim at charging up fragile northern economy The Timmins Chamber of Commerce has released a three-point plan aimed at staving off what the Toronto Star describes as “the quiet destruction of Northern Ontario.” The Chamber of Commerce is strongly urging the provincial government to adopt the plan, which would provide huge dividends for the fragile economy of Northern Ontario. The release of the plan comes on the heels of a July 12 meeting between Chamber President Ken Petersen and Ontario Finance Minister Greg Sorbara. Minister Sorbara was receptive to the proposals brought forth by the Chamber of Commerce in three areas of paramount importance to the future of the region: Energy rates, revenue sharing, and wood flow allocation. ENERGY RATES BUSINESS D I R E C T O RY The Timmins Chamber of Commerce recommends that the provincial government fix hydro costs at $45 per megawatt hour for manufacturers, in order to attract and retain businesses. It is imperative that energy be used as an economic development tool. At the present time, hydro prices are 40 per cent less expensive in Quebec and 60 per cent lower in Manitoba. The Chamber of Commerce is concerned that existing enterprises will re-locate their manufacturing operations as a cost-saving measure. Our concern is valid, since energy represents 20-25 per cent of operating costs for some manufacturers. Moreover, it is estimated that a large consumer, such as Timmins-based Xstrata Copper, could save $40 million annually by moving their refining operations to Quebec. This would have a catastrophic effect on the Northeastern Ontario economy with a loss of 4,000 to 5,000 jobs, using industry standard multipliers. This is a major business issue facing Ontario manufacturers - in the last three years we have lost 175,000 manufacturing jobs in Ontario. Any business organization representing the true interests of business in Ontario, including the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, should be lobbying for cost-effective, competitive energy rates. This speaks directly to the prosperity of Ontario, and we are calling on the Ontario government to demonstrate leadership by making our energy costs competitive with other jurisdictions. “We have to stop the bleeding of jobs and create an environment that attracts businesses to Ontario,” said Ken Petersen. REVENUE SHARING Northern Ontario is a $24.5 billion economy – larger than Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and the Territories combined. Yet Northern residents cannot make decisions on how provincial or federal money is spent in the North. The Chamber is urging the province to address this inequity through revenue sharing. For example, the 2007 provincial budget included changes to the tax structure as it relates to diamond mining in Ontario. Under the new provisions, the province will generate $23.4 million in annual revenue if the Victor Project earns an annual net profit of $225 million. We are pleased that the Ontario government is targeting 3-7 per cent for the diamond tax, which is in line with the five per cent tax that was in place when De Beers made the $1 billion investment decision. These adjustments to the diamond tax have kept De Beers whole and sustained the investment climate in Ontario. However, the Chamber of Commerce would like to see a structure created to ensure that a fair portion of those tax revenues is re-invested in the infrastructure of Northern Ontario. De Beers has made a strong commitment to the region as evidenced with an Aboriginal employment rate of 50 per cent. We would like to see both the provincial and the federal government develop revenue sharing models throughout Northern Ontario. 2006-07 Chamber President Ken Petersen listens as Finance Minister Greg Sorbara makes a point. Petersen, along with other business leaders, met with Sorbara July 12 at the Chamber building. years. The Timmins Chamber of Commerce has been pro-active in heading off a possible wood shortage. We’ve written Minister Ramsay requesting that public consultations be held if large amounts of wood are proposed to be re-allocated away from the Timmins mills. We believe it is of vital importance that forest companies — businesses that have invested heavily in the North and Northern communities — be given a Northern public voice on the re-allocation of wood, rather than receiving their directives from Queen’s Park without consultation. WOOD FLOW ALLOCATION The Timmins Chamber of Commerce is puzzled that Natural Resources Minister David Ramsay has refused to consider public hearings on the crucial issue of long term re-allocation of Timmins wood to other jurisdictions. Minister Ramsay’s position is not congruent with statements made by Northern Development and Mines Minister Rick Bartolucci and Public Infrastructure Renewal Minister David Caplan, both of whom have advocated public consultations surrounding Northern development. The Chamber of Commerce is deeply concerned that wood is being allocated to Quebec at the expense of Timmins forestry companies. The Chamber certainly understands the government’s rationale in re-allocating wood flow to Quebec in the short term as Tembec is closed and workers at Grant Forest Products are locked out. However, it is expected that Ontario’s wood will be in great demand within two to three Published by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 985 Timmins, Ontario P4N 7H6 (705) 360-1900 Fax: (705) 360-1193 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.timminschamber.on.ca For Editorial Managing Editor: Information Keitha Robson Call: Keitha Robson (705) 360-1900 (705) 360-1900 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Jeff Mackie For Advertising Editor: and Membership Information Call: Rae (705)James 360-1900 (705) 360-1900 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] “Inside Business” is an information package provided to members of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce and businesses at large. The positions expressed in by-lined columns are the opinion of the subject editor and do not reflect the position of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce unless specifically stated. The Timmins Chamber of Commerce assumes no responsibility for statements or claims made by advertisers. “Inside Business” is published 6 times per year by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce. Issue dates are January, March, May, July, September and November. Closing date is the second Friday of the previous month. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Retooled Chamber giftshop makes online splash Northern College has adopted a community service learning education model that has students actively involved in their curriculum while enhancing their awareness of their community and their role in it. An example of how service learning can benefit communities and local businesses was presented June 21 with the official launch of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce’s new online gift shop. Computer Engineering Technology Professor, Neal McNair, noticed the gift shop page on the Chamber’s website and felt that its enhancement would be an ideal project for his students. The second-year computer science students created a searchable, categorized gift shop page that makes it easy for shoppers to browse the items the Timmins Chamber of Commerce has for sale in its gift shop. They also created a shopping cart system to allow the public to order items online, and an administration system that makes it easy for the Chamber staff to add and modify items on the site. The new system is a great improvement over the static web page the Chamber had previously, and it will prove to be an important addition to the Chamber’s website. Working with the Timmins Chamber of Commerce was a natural fit. The College has long been a Chamber member. As a not-for-profit organization, the Chamber was looking for a cost-effective way to improve its online gift shop page, and the students were happy to get a real project to work on. “The Chamber would like to thank Northern College for thinking of us,” said 2006-07 Chamber President Ken Petersen. “We always enjoy partnering with the College and have once again reaped the benefits of working with highly-skilled students.” “The students really benefit from experience such as this,” said professor McNair. “It gives them the chance to apply what they have learned in class and to demonstrate that they have the skills to solve real-world business problems.” Service learning, which differs from field placements and internships, can work for communities and positively affect the local social economy. This type of learning connects academic work with personal lives and it demands the engagement of well-designed and real partnerships between communities and Northern College. Community service learning strengthens the College’s links with the communities it serves. 4 - SEPTEMBER 2007 inside business Small Business Week Schedule of Events Monday, October 15, 2007 Mayor’s State of the City - SBW Launch hosted by the Starting a Small Business Workshop - presented by the Timmins BDC office Hear about developments in the City of Timmins during 2007 and the vision for the future. Speaker: Mayor Tom Laughren Where: Dante Club When: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m., buffet lunch included Cost: $25 for Chamber members, $30 future members incl. gst To reserve your seat, please call the Timmins Chamber of Commerce at 360-1900 Business Enterprise Centre & The Venture Centre A session filled with guidelines and good advice on making a success of it from the start. Learn about BizPal. Where: Days Inn, Conference Room 3 When: 6:30- 8:30 p.m. Cost: free To reserve your seat, please call the The Venture Centre/ Le Centre de développement at 360-5800 Tuesday, October 16, 2007 Lunch N Learn- Access to External Markets- How to Approach the Banks for $$$ - presented by the presented by Trade Northern Ontario in collaboration with the Venture Centre Grow your business by finding out the opportunities and issues in developing trade. Learn about the Trade Northern Ontario initiative and how we can help your business. Where: Sivas Restaurant When: noon-1:30 p.m. Cost: free with buffet lunch provided by Trade Northern Ontario For more information, please contact The Venture Centre/ Le Centre de développement at 360-5800 X224 Business Enterprise Centre in partnership with BDC and Scotiabank Hear from local banks on what they require in order for your business to start, grow or purchase assets. Where: Community Boardroom, Timmins Police Services Building When: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Cost: free To reserve your seat, please call the Business Enterprise Centre at 360-2600 X 7081 Wednesday, October 17, 2007 Ask The Expert – Meet the Press- hosted by the Northern Ontario Leadership Summit – Sponsored by Timmins Chamber of Commerce Learn how to get exposure for your business through the media. Speaker: Art Pultz, Tom Perry & Jason Laneville Where: Timmins Chamber Boardroom When: 8-9 a.m. Cost: no-charge for members, $5 for future members To reserve your seat, please call the Timmins Chamber of Commerce at 360-1900 FONOM Let your voice be heard as we develop a plan for the future of Northern Ontario! Where: McIntyre Centre When: October 17-19 Cost: $250.00 For information on Registration please visit, www.FONOM.org Thursday, October 18, 2007 Northern Ontario Business Awards - hosted by Northern Ontario Business Join us we celebrate Northern businesses. Where: Days Inn, Grand Ballroom When: 5:30 p.m. Cost: $159 incl. gst To reserve your ticket, please call Sheila O’Neill at 1-800-757-2766 X369 Friday, October 19, 2007 Generation E- Youth in Business- presented by the Venture Centre and RDÉE Ontario – bilingual workshop This session will help to answer the question “Is business the career for you?” along with exploring programs designed to help young people get and stay in business. Genération E – Jeunesse en affaires – présenté par The Venture Centre/Le Centre de développement et RDÉE Ontario – atelier bilingue Cette session vous aidera à répondre à la question « L’entreprenariat, est-ce pour moi ? » en plus d’explorer les différents programmes disponibles aux jeunes qui veulent se lancer en affaires ou maintenir leur entreprise. Where / Où: Pace Centre – 41 Pine St. N. (follow the signs) / Le Centre Pace au 41 rue Pine Nord When / Quand: 10 :00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. / 10h à 14h Cost / Coût: no cost / gratis To reserve your seat, please contact the Venture Centre at 360-5800 / Prière de communiquer avec The Venture Centre/Le Centre de développement pour réserver votre place – 360-5800 Small Business Week 2007 is brought to you by these sponsors: inside business SEPTEMBER 2007 - 5 Timely professional advice can stave off financial disaster If your business is showing signs of trouble, here are some helpful tips to put it back on the right track. “Taking action at the eleventh hour is too late,” explains Chartered Accountant and Trustee in Bankruptcy Daniel Weisz, Partner, Mintz & Partners LLP in Toronto. “The earlier the issues are identified, the greater the chances the company will be saved. Our goal is to identify problems and assess a company’s financial position as soon as possible, working together to develop realistic solutions.” This process reviews the financial results. It looks at the company’s assets and liabilities (including identifying major creditors) and gains management’s assessment of the viability of the business, based on financial projections and key industry trends. Depending on the results of the financial review, the next step is to determine whether the company can be restructured to keep it in business. “Look at the big picture,” says Chartered Accountant Daryl Heinsohn, Partner, Laberge Venne & Partners Professional Corporation in Sudbury. “Always seek professional accounting advice from a CA, whose role is to help ensure your company’s long-term success. Plan ahead and inquire about strategies to improve the business’ performance, and safeguard assets well in advance of trouble appearing.” What else can you do? Heinsohn advises that incorporating your business generally provides limited liability protection and shields personal assets. “Keep an eye on corporate debts, and pay those debts that you are liable for as a corporate director, such as GST and payroll costs.” “Should bankruptcy occur, shareholders typically do not get paid but are eligible to claim a personal tax deduction for 50 per cent of the forfeited amount, if the corporation meets certain criteria,” Heinsohn explains. Weisz added “a Chartered Accountant or licenced trustee in bankruptcy can help determine your responsibilities under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act and present you with various alternatives.” “Often, a company makes a Proposal under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act in which creditors are asked to agree to compromise on the amounts owing to them,” said Weisz. “Larger companies can file a Plan of Arrangement under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act, which outlines the terms of the restructuring to their creditors. In both instances, creditors vote on whether they accept these terms. Our experience has been that creditors often vote in favour of the restructuring.” If the proposal under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act is rejected, the company automatically becomes bankrupt, and a trustee in bankruptcy or receiver will likely take possession of the company’s assets, attempting to sell them on a going-concern or piecemeal basis, explained Weisz. While a rejected restructuring plan under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act does not automatically result in the company’s bankruptcy, it is likely that the company will soon go into receivership or eventually become bankrupt. At the first sign of trouble, act immediately to keep your operation out of bankruptcy and in business. This article was provided by The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario. Business After Five The Timmins Chamber of Commerce hosted a Business After Five event at the new Community Police Building on Aug. 23. Above, from the left are, Ken Petersen, 2006-07 Chamber president, Michael Feldman, and Will Saari from Edward Jones Investments who toured the cell block. Below, Darlene Lafontaine of Wabun Tribal Council finds herself on the inside looking out. ASK THE EXPERT Joint Ventures, Partnerships, Limited Partnerships and Corporations ... What's the difference and which one will work for me? with guest speaker, Luc Maisonneuve of Racicot, Maisonneuve, Labelle, Gosselin Barristers and Solicitors Join us on Wednesday, September 19th, 2007 Chamber Boardroom (76 McIntyre Road) 8:00 to 9:00 am Muffins and Coffee will be served No charge for Chamber members $5.00 for future members Start your morning speaking with Luc and other members about: the distinction between the types of business entities the benefits and drawbacks as it pertains to Northern Ontario what is the best route to take for your business Take a look at Community First Local understands local. We’re familiar with the challenges that local businesses face because we’re a local business, just like you. We know that as a business, you need a full range of financial services and with Community First you gain the additional benefit of local decision making and a keen understanding of the community you do business in. Contact Matt Duquette, Branch Manager Community First Credit Union, 267-6481, 146 Cedar Street South R.S.V.P. your attendance to the Chamber Phone 360-1900, Fax 360-1193 or e-mail: [email protected] inside business 6 - SEPTEMBER 2007 Working ON your business, not IN your business What is the difference between working ON your business and working IN your business? Imagine this: you’re ‘IN’ your business. Literally you’re standing in your premises. You’re answering phones, talking with staff, fighting fires, juggling all the elements of your business at once - marketing, sales, management, operations, staff, finances, cash flow, debtors, creditors, suppliers, and more. You’re extremely busy. You’ve just realized that you forgot to eat lunch again, and someone unexpected has just walked in the door. Unfortunately, that means you’re going to have to spend time with them, instead of doing the salaries or completing that paperwork you really wanted to finish. Oh well, you’ll take it home and do it into the night. And so it goes. This is working ‘IN’ your business. You’re in the midst of it, fighting fires, handling everything there is to handle and more - IN your business. Now picture this instead. You’ve taken four four steps back from your business and you’re looking at it objectively, saying ‘OK, that’s my business over there, now what do I want to do with it?’ ‘Apart from me, what will this business do? How will it be? What do I want it to be like? What does it need to do to give me my life, to free me up from working in it all the time?’ Imagine your business as a lump of clay. What would you mold it into? What would make it perfect for you, and perhaps for someone else? This is working ON your business. Most people work IN their business. However, the secret is to work ON your business so that you don’t have to work in it. What does “working ON it” mean? Simply developing key systems - systems for everything! A number of things happen when you systematize processes. First, you don’t have to do the process. Second, others with different skills than you can do it. Third, when you systematize, you automatically develop what we call ‘a way of doing it here.’ That ‘way of doing it here’ not only makes things happen in a totally predictable way, it also makes your business worth much more. Think about this concept by comparing a local hamburger joint to McDonald’s. In which would you rather own shares? McDonald’s, most likely. Why? Is it because McDonald’s makes better hamburgers? Not necessarily. You’d take those shares because it works like clockwork, it works so you don’t have to. McDonald’s has a ‘way of doing it here.’ Suppose we said that the purpose of creating a business was to sell it (whether or not you wanted to). When you start to think that way, you start to create different pictures and processes. When you sell it, you’re handing over the key to a perfect little money-making machine worth many times more, simply because you thought about and developed the systems, you thought about and developed the structure, and you thought about and developed the processes. You know exactly what the return on investment is. You know exactly what it’s worth and, above all, you know that it’s independent of you. It’s not your life. You’ve developed a business that you’re a part of, yet you’re still apart from it. To do this, we need to get the systems and the processes right. We do have the choice to build a business that works rather than a business that consumes our life. Creating systems is part of taking that choice. The sooner you start doing so, the sooner you’ll be free to choose to work in your business all day long if you prefer, but at this point, it will be a choice rather than a must! Bonnie Foster FCA is a Chartered Accountant with Ross, Pope & Company, a firm dedicated to helping small businesses become successful. Employment plan to ease transition into labour force Steve Kidd speaks on the opportunities offered through a new web-based initiative. :?8D9<IF=:FDD<I:<>IFLG F==@:<JLGGCPGIF>I8D <M<IPK?@E>PFLE<<;=FIPFLI9LJPF==@:<% <gVcYIdn^hegdjYidegdk^YZndjg8]VbWZgd[8dbbZgXZVcY^ihbZbWZgh Vc\oZclj`m\f]]\i% J8M<LGKF/'dcdkZg,*%%fjVa^ind[ÒXZegdYjXihÄ^c"hidX`VcY gZVYnidh]^e# J`^e$lg]fipfliYlj`e\jjXZZflekkf[XpXe[^\k1 <gZVihZaZXi^dchZgk^XZ ;gZZcZmi"YVnYZa^kZgn 9ZY^XViZYVXXdjcibVcV\ZbZci HZXjgZ!;Vhi:VhndgYZg^c\Vi 8dciVXidjgadXVa7jh^cZhh8ZcigZVi .', )-/$*'''fi ($/..$/'/$,,,.\ok%*))+ +),8c^fehl`e9cm[%<Xjk#K`dd`ej#FEG+E(9, Gettrainedworkers.com is a new websitebased employment tool that has been designed to make locating and hiring trained employees into a simple, affordable and efficient experience for employers throughout Northeastern Ontario. The initiative is being promoted by 17 Chambers of Commerce throughout Northeastern Ontario, including the Timmins Chamber. It will also be used by regional employment social service agencies who will help match job postings with potential workers. “Through the cooperation and support of all our NOCC member Chambers, we wanted to further the opportunity of a web-based tool that would be simple and straightforward for everyone involved, both employers and potential employees” explained Steve Kidd, Chair of the Northeastern Ontario Chamber of Commerce. “This is yet another initiative that our organization has partnered with government to make Northern Ontario a better place to live, work and do business for all of our citizens” he continued. To use the site and access the numerous trained workers throughout Northeastern Ontario, employers simply have to participate in a simple registration process after which posting new positions is as simple as logging into their secure site. Employment Agencies follow a similar password structured access and once logged in, they can compare their database of eligible workers with the positions that have been posted on gettrainedworkers.com. “It was important to us that the website was secure, but also extremely user friendly for the different service providers and employment case workers who would be accessing it to ensure appropriate matches of skills of the clients we serve to meaningful employment.” said Gary Scripnick, chair of the Cochrane DSSAB. “This initiative also sees a great partnership between the Social Service Administration Boards of Cochrane, Timiskaming, Nipissing, Parry Sound, the Municipality of Muskoka and the Ministry of Community and Social Services, Northeast Region. The philosophy behind the get trained workers.com website is that there are numerous skilled workers throughout Northeastern Ontario who do not necessarily hear about job openings in their field of expertise. The get trained workers initiative will also provide for some special requirements for those seeking employment and any additional training that they may require. “This is a truly one-of-a-kind employment initiative that will be beneficial to both the trained workers looking for jobs and the employers who need them. It is a remarkable project,” said Kidd. This project is funded by the Ministry of Community and Social Services through the Employment Innovations Fund. inside business 8 - SEPTEMBER 2007 Family business credits ability to adapt as key to success Credit Bureau of Timmins is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. The history of the business not only tells the story of the evolution of the Credit Bureau industry, it also reveals the legacy of the Laporte family in the Timmins area. The business was founded in 1932 by Phil Laporte under the name Porcupine Credit Ltd. Today, Phil Laporte’s son Terry is the president and granddaughter Tricia Whelan is the general manager. Terry Laporte began working for the family business in 1964. He and his brother Denis were equal partners in the business with their father for several years. Phil Laporte was still coming to work every day right up until the time of his death in 2000 at the age of 95. In April of 2006, Denis Laporte died suddenly of a heart attack. “It’s been an interesting journey over the last 75 years,” reflected Terry Laporte. “The fourth generation is working for the business now. The first generation worked just as hard as we do. The proof is in the pudding, you could say.” In 1989 the Laportes decided to do away with the card system and become computerized. They enlisted the services of a New Brunswick-based computer company to install an electronic reporting system. The conversion took an entire week and things went well for the first little while before the system developed a glitch. When the Laporte’s contacted the company to have the system repaired, they discovered it had gone out of business. The two employees who had installed the system hadn’t been paid in months. In an attempt to avoid disaster, the Laporte’s paid the two men to repair the system, and in doing so they realized they now owned the rights to the system. The program ended up working so well that within a few years 36 of the biggest collection agencies in Canada were using the it. As a result, Porcupine Computers was born. “We made lemonade out of lemons and then took the lemonade and made champagne,” said Terry Laporte. In 1999, the Laportes further diversified the business by adding a call centre component. Then, in 2001, they sold the reporting part of the business to Equifax – a huge step considering that 80 per cent of the business was reporting. The plan was to take the money and push the call centre to its potential. “My dad would be so proud to see what we’ve developed into,” said Terry Laporte. To celebrate 75 years in business, Credit Bureau of Timmins will be the site of a Chamber of Commerce Business after Five event on Sept. 26. Chamber members are asked to phone the Chamber office at 3601900, fax: 360-1193, or email [email protected] to confirm their attendance. The staff at the Credit Bureau of Timmins are celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the business this year. Member of the Month for August 2006-2007 Chamber President, Ken Petersen (left) and Esko Vainio (right), Chamber Marketing Committee Chair congratulate Guy Ippersiel, owner of Home Improvement Center, on being chosen as the July 2007 Chamber Member of the Month. As of September 1, 2007, Our hotel is proudly 100% Smoke-Free Timmins Howard Johnson Inn 1800 Riverside Drive, Box 1223 Timmins, Ontario P4N 7J5 1-800-461-3795 toll free (705) 267-6241 • (705) 268-5941 fax email: [email protected] www.hojotimmins.com • Crew Rooms • Complimentary High-Speed Wireless • Corporate Suites and Conference Center Internet • Aerobic Center • Complimentary Breakfast Buffet • Business Office Center • And much more! Past Presidents’ Barbecue The 2007 edition of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce Past Presidents’ Barbecue was held on Aug. 9 under warm sunny skies at the cottage of Past President Bruce Del Guidice. The past presidents took the opportunity to officially welcome incoming Past President Ken Petersen to the fold and to provide encouragement and advice to incoming President Marilyn Wood. Past Presidents attending this year’s barbecue included: Mert Lake, John Wilson, Ron Campbell, Barry McCusker, Ralph Deleurant, Nick Bucar, Keith Alvey, Rick Gutcher, Jim Thomson, Don Wyatt, Bonnie Foster, Ross Stringer, Kirby Williston, Steve Kidd, Ken Petersen (2006-07 president), Marilyn Wood (incoming president), and Bruce Del Guidice. inside business SEPTEMBER 2007 - 9 New member profiles Polar Bear Windows & Door Manufacturing Timmins Insulation Systems First Data Merchant Services Building Supply Centres Originally opened in the early 1990s, Timmins Windows & Doors recently opened a new manufacturing plant located at 1215 Riverside Drive. Polar Bear will customize single entry doors, entry with side lights, double/garden doors and patio doors to suit your needs. Customers can save money and reduce fuel bills by using specially-made insulating glass. Polar Bear specializes in slider, casement, picture and architectural windows. Visit www.polarbearwindows.com. For more information call 268-3006. General Contractors Timmins Insulation Systems offers a variety of solutions to dowith building insulation needs. Whether it is residential, commercial or industrial they can help. The company offers cellulose blown insulation for attics, fire-proofing and specialty coatings. Its spray in place polyurethane foam is at least twice as insulating as the next best insulation; it also completely seals the structure. Urethane foam expands 30 times, then sets in about three seconds and fills every nook and cranny. It is virtually waterproof and forms its own vapour barrier and is also structurally strong. Timmins Insulation Systems can be reached at 267-7918. Financial Services Whether its credit, debit, checks or electronic payments, we partner with businesses, governments and financial institutions to deliver competitiveness, efficiency and peace of mind. From point-of-sale to point-of-settlement, virtually every type of electronic payment transaction worldwide is enabled by First Data. Rate adjustments are offered for new and existing merchants who use Interac (debit machines) and credit cards along with service to Visa, MasterCard and American Express. This program is in conjunction with all the Ontario and Canadian Chambers so all members can take advantage of the great rates. Contact Nathalie Morin at 1-888-879-4044 ext. 5271 for detailed rates and further details. Cola Consulting Computer Consultants Cola Consulting is a computer consulting firm that does network installation, computer sales and repairs, and database and web design. The company has expertise in fields such as database programs and system analysis. They can design a complete website or a single page; making it as simple or as involved as customers need. They can also provide high quality graphics to help with designs. Visit their website at www.cola-consulting.com for a list of some of the programs and company languages Cola Consulting is familiar with. Corner Café Restaurants Corner Café is the coffee shop where friends gather and enjoy freshly made sandwiches, subs (your choice of toppings) with homemade soups. At break time, customers can enjoy a specialty tea or coffee accompanied by a sweet treat. On those hot summer days one can also cool down with milkshakes, smoothies, or hard ice cream. An excellent place to hold lunch meetings, Corner Cafe is located in the Porcupine Mall. Dubé Designs Jewellery Stores Dubé Designs offers jewellery repairs, engraving and custom designs on premises. There is always fine jewellery in stock, including trendsetting silver, titanium and stainless steel to timeless gold chains, pearls and Canadian diamonds. They have on site goldsmiths for all your jewellery needs. This business is locally owned and operated. Visit them at their location or call 264-7464 for more information. R & L Slashing Ltd. Forestry Services R & L Slashing has been in business since 1979 and was incorporated in 1984. The company is forestry based and has evolved from slashing to processing trees into various lengths. This family based processing plant is a sub-contractor for Foleyet Timber. They presently employ four processor operators full time. Contact Rejean Vandal at 268-4924 for more information. Northland Construction General Contractors Northland Construction is new to the Timmins area. They opened in June, but have over 23 years of experience with extensive knowledge in commercial construction. To date, business has been steady. Northland Construction does a lot of home renovations, roofing, siding, and window installation. They offer free estimates and reference lists upon request to potential customers. All work completed is guaranteed for five years. One of their main goals is to stay in Timmins and provide employment to the residents here and surrounding areas. Phone 266-3958 for information. inside business 10 - SEPTEMBER 2007 136 golfers hit the links for annual Chamber event The Timmins Chamber of Commerce held its annual Golf Tournament July 12 at Spruce Needles Golf Club, with 136 golfers participating in the sold out event and more than 70 member businesses sponsoring holes and donating prizes. Participants enjoyed a strip loin steak dinner and each golfer received a prize, donated by Chamber of Commerce members. Golfers were treated to an afternoon pizza break courtesy of Topper’s Pizza which was a welcome treat for the field of golfers who were plagued by intermittent showers. The winners in four-person 18-hole best ball scramble were as follows: ■ Ladies Winners: Team Alarie Trina St-Amour, Lynn Gauthier, Lyne Miron and Tricia Whelan ■ Mens Winners: Team Wabun Tribal Council Mike Archer, Brody Batise, Jason Batise and Mike Miller ■ Mixed Winners: Team Daily Press Milisse Cote, Lisa Cote, Gaston Cote and Gio Crispo ■ Lady’s Closest to the Pin - sponsored by Legault Sod Farms was Judy Christian ■ Men’s Closest to the Pin - sponsored by NorthernTel Mobility was Gaston Cote ■ Lady’s Longest Putt - sponsored by Dube Designs was Milisse Cote ■ Men’s Longest Putt - sponsored by Timmins Office Plus was Dave Hack ■ Lady’s Longest Drive - sponsored by Timmins Office Plus was Lily Batise ■ Men’s Longest Drive - sponsored by Timmins Garage NorthernTel Mobility was Matt Duquette Insurance provider Eclipse Financial with an additional $250 going to their charity of choice. Dave chose the Timmins Humane Society as the lucky recipient. The Chamber Golf Tournament organizing committee is comprised of Committee Chair Don Wyatt, Bruce Stewart, Deni Poulin, Joel Bergeron, Gary Marriott and Pierre Corbeil. The committee would like to thank our hole sponsors and prize sponsors for their generosity. They would also like to recognize the staff at Spruce Needles for their excellent work. Dave Hack was the winner of $500 for the putting contest hosted by Chamber Group Chamber 58th Annual General Meeting & Presidents’ Dinner brought to you by Thursday, September 13th, 2007 - 6:30 p.m. Grand Ballroom, Days Inn and Conference Centre The 2007-2008 Timmins Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors invites you to attend as we discuss “The Crossroads: How the Northern economy and politics intersect” with keynote speaker, Mr. Bruce Anderson Bruce Anderson, Chairman and CEO, Harris-- Decima Research Inc. Mr. Anderson is one of Canada’s leading opinion and market research specialists and communications advisors. His work in this field began in 1983 when he joined Decima Research as a consultant and left six years later as President, after which he spent 15 years building a well-regarded research and communications consulting enterprise. His analysis of national issues such as the Canada-US Free Trade Agreement, environmental issues and major tax and fiscal reforms, are regularly featured in Canadian print and media. Timmins Chamber of Commerce 58th Annual General Meeting & Presidents’ Dinner Thursday, September 13, 2007 - Days Inn and Conference Centre Please send Ticket(s) (Tables are 8 tickets) at $53.00 ea (incl. gst) Member Pricing Please Invoice (members only) $66.25 ea (incl. gst) Future Member Pricing Cheque Enclosed Visa/MasterCard # Cardholder Name: Expiry Date: / Contact Company Mailing Phone Fax Phone -(705) 360-1900 Email - [email protected] Fax -(705) 360-1193 This event is brought to you by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce and these partners: Northern Ontario Business Awards October 18th, 2007 • Timmins, ON Ticket Order Form Timmins Chamber Of Commerce Chambre de commerce de Timmins P.O. BOX 985 TIMMINS, ONTARIO P4N 7H6 PHONE- (705) 360-1900 FAX- (705) 360-1193 [email protected] www.timminschamber.on.ca ORDER FORM An Exciting Project By The Timmins Chamber Of Commerce! I OFFICE USE ONLY NAME POSITION COMPANY ADDRESS CITY PROVINCE PHONE FAX EMAIL WEBSITE POSTAL CODE GUEST NAMES (if applicable) TICKETS Gala ticket includes: Welcoming Reception, Pre-Banquet Reception, Wine with Dinner, Awards Ceremony and Post-Banquet Reception. EVENT DETAILS Wednesday, October 17th, 2007 Shania Twain Centre (Sponsored by NorthernTel) 5:30 p.m. Welcoming Reception Will be attending The pewter ornament series depicting famous local landmarks, developed by the Chamber Tourism Committee, has issued its sixth release, The Timmins Daily Press Building Thursday, October 18th, 2007 Days Inn 5:30 p.m. Gala Dinner Registration 6:00 p.m. Pre-Banquet Reception 7:00 p.m. Dinner and Awards Ceremony 9:30 p.m. Post-Banquet Reception #____ Wholesale (minimum order 20) units @ $8.00 + 6%gst = ______ Recommended Retail is $10.95 + tax Company Name:_________________________________________ Address:_______________________________________________ Phone Number:_________________________________________ Contact Name:__________________________________________ Cedar Meadows (Timmins, ON) is also taking room reservations under the registration no. 051004. Phone (705) 268-5800. Awards Dinner Ticket(s): The Chamber is proud to offer your business the opportunity to purchase these ornaments, celebrating our local heritage. Each ornament comes pre-packaged and ready for gift giving. HOST HOTEL Days Inn 14 Mountjoy Street South, Timmins, ON Phone: (705) 267-6211 Toll Free: 1-800-461-9889 For room rate, please state 'Northern Ontario Business'. Tickets # Ticket(s) @ $159.00 (includes GST) = Tables # Corporate Table(s) of 10 @ $1,590.00 (includes GST) = (Tables will be reserved with company signage) Please indicate the method of payment. No tickets will be issued. Register at door. Visa Master Card Card # FAX THIS FORM TO: (705) 671-0878 Northern Ontario Business Awards 158 Elgin Street South Sudbury, ON P3E 3N5 Exp. Date Contact: Sheila O'Neill, Customer Service Representative Tel: (705) 673-5705 or 1-800-757-2766 Ext. 369 Email: [email protected] Refunds will be available only until October 4th, 2007. Requests must be made in writing and faxed to (705) 671-0878. The contact information above may be made available to carefully screened organizations whose products or services may be of interest. If you would prefer not to receive such communications, please check here: Tickets can also be purchased online at www.noba.ca Please fax, e-mail or phone your order in today. Total $ DEADLINE FOR REGISTRATION: Thursday, October 4th, 2007 R OFFICE USE ONLY inside business SEPTEMBER 2007 - 11 Inside the business of Xstrata Copper Charlie Sartain, Xstrata Copper chief executive, addresses a sold out audience during Xstrata’s Inside Their Business breakfast at Cedar Meadows on Aug. 29. Change of ownership offers new dawn for Sunrise Rentals Sunrise Rentals, a fixture in the rental services market for more than 20 years, has new owners – and a new name. The business has been operating as Battlefield Equipment Rentals since being purchased by Toromont Industries in March. Toromont is the parent company of Ontario-based Battlefield Equipment Rentals, which operates Cat Rental stores in Ontario, Newfoundland and Manitoba. Former Sunrise staff Jim, Patricia, Gord and Kim Labine, along with Carrie Seaton, continue to operate the business. According to rental manager Gord Labine, the business is in a much better position to serve its customers because it has access to the resources of Battlefield’s 33 other branches. If the Timmins location requires a piece of equipment, it can be shipped from one of the other locations immediately. Located on Commercial Avenue, Battlefield offers rentals, sales and servicing for surveying equipment, safety supplies, along with diamond and abrasive blades. The business is a Bostitch and Pasload dealer, as well as Stihl supplier. Labine admits the sale has been met with mixed reaction locally. “The business was operated as a mom and pop organization for so long, that it’s only natural some people are sad to see it become part of a larger organization,” he said. However, Labine noted that Battlefield customers have been happy with the increased level of service they’ve been receiving since the sale. SUPER CITY CLEANING SYSTEMS Automotive high pressure hot extraction cleaning and detailing services ALAIN FRANCOEUR • AUTO DETAILING SPECIALIST M.O.E. COMMERCIAL ACCOUNTING Professional Bookkeeping • Personal & Business Tax Returns M.O.E. = Profits 204-670 Airport Road, Timmins Phone: 268-4474 • Fax: 264-0011 Maurice E. Proulx email: [email protected] *Se in-store for Details.