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Investment
…in infrastructure
Fanshawe College is committed to
investing in expanding its infrastructure
through a $100 Million capital expansion
plan and creating room for over 1300
new full-time students on campus.
Innovation
…in education
Fanshawe College is about more than
bricks and mortar; it is also about the need
for continued and enhanced innovation in
education—changing the way people in
our community are equipped to work
in our highly technical world.
Impact
…in our community
Having an annual financial impact of
over $850 Million on London and the
surrounding area, Fanshawe College is
focused on the future success of not only
its students and alumni, but also on the
community in which we are located. By
responding to the needs of industry and
community leaders we are ensuring the
future of the region is financially bright
and a leader in Ontario and Canada.
www.fanshawec.ca
FANSHAWE
COLLEGE
Community Driven … Student Focused
Perspective
TM
3
LONDON 2005
Reid’s Heritage Homes places primary value in customers
ondon has some of the best home builders
in Ontario and Reid’s Heritage Homes is
among the top. Reid’s Heritage Homes has
been building new homes for more than 55 years
and has expanded its presence into communities
throughout Ontario. Reid’s Heritage Homes came
to London in 1997 and currently has five sites
under development in the city.
Reid’s Heritage Homes’ London division has
been nominated as a finalist in five categories in
the Canadian Home Builders’ Association’s 2004
National Sales & Marketing Awards. This awardwinning builder has a long history of recognition.
Success has come largely from its focus on the consumer. “We’re about a ‘customer-for-life’ philosophy,” says Alan Churchill, partner of Reid’s
Heritage Homes’ London division and President of
the London Home Builders Association (LHBA).
“We’re working diligently with staff to create a
really good experience, incorporating strong communication, emphasis on quality and customer
satisfaction,” says Churchill. Reid’s Heritage
Homes’ home buyers are given a list of each step
in the decision making process and the name of
who will help them at each point. “The key to our
success is building a relationship through the
process. We want homebuyers to understand what
steps are involved and who ultimately will assist
and co-ordinate implementation.”
When Reid’s Heritage Homes’ home buyers
comment on the best part of the experience, it’s
usually the value for cost. They’re impressed with
the quality of design and finishing, location,
amount of windows, functionality and open
concept space they get for a reasonable price. “We
had great positive feedback last year, but we can
always improve and our goal is to continue to
raise the bar,” says Churchill. “It’s the only way to
make it a win-win situation.”
Reid’s Heritage Homes encourages its staff to
be active volunteers in community projects and
local home builders associations. Reid’s Heritage
Homes is currently pursuing a community build
project with the London school board which will
be implemented in February 2006.
L
Talbot Village
This is Reid’s Heritage Homes’ biggest award
winner. Located in the heart of a historical community between the villages of Byron and
Lambeth, Talbot Village is surrounded by a picturesque natural landscape. Central to the subdivision are natural and man-made wetlands
including Settlement Park and Talbot Pond and
the four man-made storm drainage ponds adjacent to Colonel Talbot Road.
Talbot Village is Reid’s Heritage Homes’ largest
development to date in London. Architecture is
craftsman-inspired from the Arts & Crafts period
of the late 19th century. This style uses large porches with cultured pillars, natural materials such as
stone, clay brick and wood to accent the exterior of
these homes. Square columns, grillwork on windows, low-maintenance vinyl shake siding and
craftsman style garage doors are a few of Talbot
Village’s standard features. The lot sizes range from
30 to 50 feet and incorporate numerous designs in
two-storey, multi-level, bungalow, back-split and
split-entry designs. Prices start at $199,900.
When complete, Talbot Village’s 220 acres will
be the site of single-family homes, condos, and
land set aside for commercial purposes, schools,
water and park areas, and churches. Please call
(519) 652-8297 for more information.
Stone, clay brick and wood accent the exteriors of Reid's Heritage Homes’ Talbot Village models.
Kilally Glen
Kilally Glen is situated in a prime location along
the Thames River in north London. Walking trails
through forest surround. It’s close to many amenities and the Masonville Place commercial area.
Three fully furnished models offer a glimpse of
life at Kilally Glen. You’ll see impressive features
such as a spacious kitchen and breakfast area,
main-floor laundry, cathedral ceilings in the master bedroom and a roomy, third-level loft area.
Please call (519) 457-0003 for more information.
Quality & Craftsmanship in Every Home Design
Forest Hill
Forest Hill offers quiet country living just five
minutes from amenities. Bordered by a forest,
the site is close to nature, golfing and is right
across from the brand new Mother Teresa High
School. It’s also close to additional schools, shopping, dining, and Masonville and Hyde Park
neighbourhoods. Phase II is now open and more
than 50 per cent sold. A future phase will back
onto Llyndinshire Golf & Country Club.
Open-concept designs, decorative California ceilings, custom-crafted kitchen cabinets, luxury
ensuites, plenty of closet and storage space are
among the features at Forest Hill. Buyers receive a
$1,000 closing bonus, and fridge and stove included.
Please call (519) 679-3976 for more information.
Oakridge Crossing
This site is a mix of single-family, detached
homes in a beautiful established neighbourhood
on the west side of London, only minutes from
The University of Western Ontario, a bakery, fitness club, shopping and dining. Please call (519)
471-7110 for more information.
Fieldgate Circle
Located in an established residential area,
Fieldgate Circle features bungalow and two-storey
detached homes on 30-foot lots. Buyers can move
in this spring with spec homes still available.
Please call (519) 659-3800 for more information.
Detached Homes from $199,900
Unparalled design. See it for yourself!
Sales Office located
on the southeast corner of
Southdale Rd. and Col. Talbot Rd.
Visit Our 4 Superbly Designed & Decorated Model Homes
519-652-8297
Pre-construction Settler’s Grant ~ $3000 in FREE Upgrades
SINGLE FAMILY HOMES
SINGLE FAMILY HOMES
SINGLE FAMILY
nestled along
the Thames River
in an already established
neighbourhood
DETACHED HOMES
from $161,400
from $178,800
from $183,000
519-659-3800
519-457-0003
519-471-7110
2 storey designs
SINGLE FAMILY
COMMUNITY
Now Open
PHASE II
from $179,800
519-679-3976
Trust the Original
To view floorplans or to obtain more detailed site
information, visit our newly designed website at
ReidsHeritageHomesLondon.com.
ReidsHeritageHomesLondon.com
Sales Office Hours: Monday 2p.m. - 6p.m., Tues. - Thurs. 1p.m. - 5p.m., Sat. & Sun. 1p.m. - 5p.m. ( Fieldgate; Sat. & Sun. 1p.m. 5p.m. or by appointment). Renderings are Artist’s Concept only. Materials, specifications and floor plans are subject to change without notice. E. & O. E.
Perspective
4
TM
LONDON 2005
Message from the Mayor
n London, we aspire to great things and this
past year has truly demonstrated our community’s capacity for continued success!
After previously naming London one of the
fastest growing economies in the country, The
Conference Board of Canada is again predicting
robust economic activity in our city in 2005, particularly in London’s manufacturing sector.
For the fourth year in a row, the construction
industry was booming, with building permits
again surpassing the half-billion dollar mark and
housing sales setting another record in London’s
history. At the same time, we welcomed six new
companies to our community, while 24 existing
businesses expanded. This economic development generated $48-million of investment and
more than 330 new jobs.
As Canada’s 10th largest centre, London has a
population of 348,000 and serves as a regional
hub for surrounding communities. As such, we
have recently launched a new strategic direction
with five key priorities to position London
among Canada’s top-ranked cities and define it
as the capital of Southwestern Ontario.
I
As our first priority, we believe creating a strong
and diversified local economy is a must. So, we’ll
continue to look for public-private partnerships
that pay dividends, build our assessment and revenue bases, and take advantage of additional lands
for new industrial development, while continuing
to revitalize our downtown district.
The health of all cities is an integral part of
Canada’s future since municipalities generate over
half of Canada’s GDP. That’s why London’s second
strategic priority is ensuring our core infrastructure is properly maintained. We’re investing in
roads and bridges to provide good traffic flow and
investing in sewers and water mains to ensure reliable service delivery to all residents.
Our third priority is community development, which is really about people, neighbourhoods and quality of life. As Londoners, we
believe investing in recreation centres, libraries,
affordable housing and emergency services are
all vital aspects of what makes London a great
place to live and work.
Our fourth priority focuses on a safe, clean
environment. We need to ensure our water is safe
to drink and use, our air is clean to breathe and
our trees and green spaces are well protected. One
particular project we recently launched with several community partners to show our commitment is called ReForest London 150. Our goal is
to plant as many new trees as possible, while also
encouraging the vital care of all trees in the city.
Our final priority is culture, with a focus on the
creative cities concept, which suggests that communities rich in the arts, diversity and tolerance,
will also have a vibrant business sector. London
has established its own Creative Cities Task Force
to determine what more our community can do
to champion London as a leader in this field.
Achieving our new strategic direction to position our city among the best in the country will
take several years, but momentum is already
building. And, there is no better time than now
— during London’s 150th anniversary of incorporation — to set this important course for a
new era in the history of our city.
Anne Marie DeCicco
Mayor of London
Art
DISCOVER THE
Domus Developments is creating new communities
in London and surrounding area.
Elegance
OF CASUAL
Domus Developments specializes in unique and award-winning residential and condominium
developments. Domus has achieved an enviable reputation for creating comfortable and stylish
spaces within ideally located neighbourhoods in London.
Domus creates homes that reflect your
individual tastes. The simple beauty that
is the hallmark of a Domus home
will always be in style.
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D O M U S D E V. C O M
Perspective
TM
5
LONDON 2005
A panoramic view of Richmond Street, a trendy area in downtown London where one can find an active nightlife and plenty of restaurants, theatres, fashion shops and other boutiques.
fter a short stint in Toronto, London native
and downtown resident Kathy McLaughlin
decided she missed the London lifestyle
and returned just a few years ago. She loves the
owner-operated approach at the nearby Covent
Garden Market where vendors often know their
customers by name. She also likes the buzz of
activity on downtown streets and the fact that on
any given night she can choose from concerts to
cafes to hockey games.
In 1999, the City decided to spend $130-million on its downtown. Part of the funds went to
new downtown projects including Covent
Garden Market, London Public Library, John
Labatt Centre, the Forks of the Thames area, road
infrastructure and others. “The revitalization has
spurred a lot of private investment,” says Janette
MacDonald, manager of MainStreet London.
Some of that investment can also be seen in new
residential towers that are springing up.
Other new investment has come through the 60
new businesses that have moved into the downtown core in the past two years, including many
restaurants. The University of Western Ontario,
Fanshawe College and CDI College have all established classes in the downtown’s Galleria Mall.
Downtown’s biggest attraction is the Ontario
Hockey League (OHL) London Knights team.
The team plays about 36 home games a season in
the John Labatt Centre, which was primarily
built to attract the calibre of entertainment currently enjoyed only in larger centres such as
Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver, to name a few.
The Knights are the main tenant of the John
Labatt Centre, which has a seating capacity of
9,100. The Canadian Hockey League has chosen
the London Knights as host team for the 2005
MasterCard Memorial Cup with all games being
played at the John Labatt Centre. It’s the first
time the cup has come to London in the team’s
A
New look for
LONDON
Revitalization in downtown and Old East Village
areas attract investment
40-year history. “The London Knights have
become one of the crown jewels of our league
and play in arguably the finest junior hockey
facility in the world,” said CHL Commissioner
David Branch. In December 2004, the Knights
broke a 1978 CHL record for the most wins in a
row at the beginning of a season. Two of its players recently helped Canada win gold at the 2005
world junior hockey championship. The Knights
games are usually sold out.
Over on the other side of London, the Old East
Village (from Adelaide to Egerton streets) is
experiencing its own revitalization. Beverly
Wagar recently opened a “health food store for
your garden” on the section’s corridor. She’s just
one of many Old East London residents who recognize the potential in this part of the city. “We
see the good things happening here,” says Wagar.
“We know the city is behind us and there’s all
kinds of energy from the neighbourhood.”
That energy is due in part to the Old East
London Village Commercial Corridor Transition
and Revitalization Study initiated in early
2002. The Old East Village BIA has worked in
partnership with the Ontario Professional
Planners Institute - Planners Action Team
(PACT) over the past three years, gathering community input from area residents, businesses and
property owners.
In October 2003, the PACT delivered a report
on its findings. “It’s a very comprehensive plan
that makes recommendations that will assist
with the revitalization and transition of the commercial corridor of the Old East Village,” says
Sarah Merritt, manager of the Old East BIA. Old
East London has more than 1,000 old heritage
homes and is London’s largest heritage district.
Many Old East Village businesses are family-run
and have been around for generations. Anthony’s
Men’s and Boy’s Wear has been there for 70 years,
while Melody Restaurant and Tavern, home of
the best and cheapest breakfast in town, has been
family run for more than 40 years and operated
in its current location for more than a century.
Specific recommendations in the report
include: redevelop Queen’s Park, improve the
local library facilities, create a heritage conservation district, improve local school yards, strictly
enforce property standards and bylaws among
others. The BIA has done the initial groundwork
for many of the recommendations, both residential and commercial, and passed it onto other
community groups for completion. The other
recommendations in the plan are being implemented by local groups such as the Old
East Village Community Association and the
Eastern Bloc Collective — an arts and culture
group. The BIA plans to focus on next steps
including a business recruitment and retention
program, and marketing and beautification programs, among others.
The BIA has also been bringing about zoning
bylaw changes in the corridor that will make it
possible for local artists to live, work, show and
sell at the ground floor level. “Historically, east
London is a strong arts and culture district,” says
Merritt. “We want to encourage and create the
conditions for more artists to live on the corridor
and engage in cultural activities.” Two stores in
the area have already become cultural centres —
La La Land and the Guild House are artists’ coops with studio space at the back and space for
exhibitions and cultural happenings at the front.
“We want to continue building a commercial
corridor that reflects the artistic and culture
diversity of East London.”
Since beginning the revitalization work three
years ago, about 10 new businesses have moved
onto the corridor and survived. “People are putting their money where their mouths are,” says
Merritt. “They’re moving from the residential
area onto the corridor to set up shop.” Many
stores are unique. All are independently owned.
There’s three different kinds of comic book
stores, two new age stores, and great secondhand antique shopping. Fias is a new Greek
restaurant that recently moved onto the corridor,
but there’s also African, Thai, Vietnamese and
Chinese restaurants. It’s all enough to wet anyone’s appetite for a taste of London.
Cover images: railcar at Dundas and Richmond streets, circa 1895; The University of Western Ontario; Eldon House
Historical photos on cover, and pages 12 and 13 from Museum London.
Perspective London 2005 was produced independently of the City of London. Its contents are copyrighted and may
not be reproduced without written consent of Perspective Marketing Inc. The publisher is not liable for any views
expressed in the articles and these opinions do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or the City of London.
Produced by Perspective Marketing Inc.
96 Forsythe St., Oakville, ON L6K 3J8
(905) 338-7044 [email protected] www.perspective.ca
Perspective
D
r. Souhile Assaf grew up in London
where he trained as a neurophysiologist,
but later headed to Europe to pursue a
career in research and subsequently the medical
devices business. Four years ago, Dr. Assaf choose
to return to the city to establish Medtrode Inc.,
which develops a small multi-channel recording
and stimulating device that may hold the future
to improving the lives of people with neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s Disease,
Tourette’s syndrome, depression, epilepsy and
eating disorders. Medtrode is one of the tenants
at London’s Stiller Centre for Biotechnology
Commercialization.
Although he also appreciates London for its
quality of life, Dr. Assaf knew it would provide the
ideal network for a biotech business such as his.
“London is the perfect environment for
Medtrode,” he says. “As one of the top knowledge
bases in North America, it encourages opportunities for discovering innovations.” He also values the
proximity to U.S. and Toronto life science markets.
Medtrode is only one company that considers
London a life science gold mine. There are
three schools offering life science/healthcare
programs, four research institutions, one
university with a faculty of medicine, 24 medical
device companies, 10 biotech companies, eight
bioinformatics companies, seven research
service companies including clinical research
organizations, plus 25 business service companies directly related to life sciences, and the list
goes on.
“We have talented researchers, a skilled labour
force, leading-edge institutions and lower business costs than Toronto, the U.S. or Europe,” says
Heather Pilot, director of business development
at London Economic Development Corporation
(LEDC). “All kinds of talented people want to
stay here. We have no problem attracting PhDs;
our problem is finding enough jobs for them.”
Pilot says quality of life is a big factor in London’s
ability to retain top talent. “More and more people don’t want the big city life. They don’t want
to be fighting traffic or prices — land is a better
price here.”
LEDC has developed a strategic action plan for
London’s life sciences sector. The plan involves
support for retention and growth of new and existing businesses, and making institutions and more
businesses aware and responsive to private sector
R&D needs, creating more cluster networking to
facilitate commercialization and growth of new
venture companies as well as existing companies.
“The research institutes and stakeholders have
signed on for growth and attraction,” says Pilot.
In addition to Medtrode, several new businesses
have established themselves at the Stiller Centre,
which offers its tenants business planning support, including market research, mentoring and
operations analysis performed by MBA graduates. The Centre also negotiates service agreements with its partners, including Lawson Health
Research Institute, The University of Western
Ontario and the City of London, on behalf of its
TM
LONDON 2005
Western's $23-million nanolab opened in September, 2004 and opens the way to bringing drug therapies to market.
Where breakthroughs
are born
Private sector businesses thrive in life science network
tenants. Within its 50,000 square feet of space is a
back-up generator for all critical systems, central
ware washing, autoclaving, sterilization facilities,
ice machine, RO water, Millipore unit, and central
vacumn and gas for labs, among other benefits.
Viron Therapeutics is a Stiller Centre tenant
and a spin-off from London’s Robarts Research
Institute. The biotechnology company discovers
and develops novel anti-inflammatory protein
therapeutics.
Another Robarts spin-off and Stiller Centre
tenant is GE Healthcare, which produces
enhanced vision systems such as CT scanners.
Trudell Medical International is a leader in the
development and manufacture of aerosol drug
delivery devices and asthma management products. It supplies most major pharmaceutical
companies involved in respiratory medicine.
Casco operates one of its manufacturing facilities in London where it has been producing
7
high-fructose corn syrup, starch and glucose for
more than 20 years. Last year, parent company
Corn Products International Inc. entered into an
agreement with a Japanese company to allow
Corn Products access to technology to produce
scFOS (short-chain fructooligosaccharides) — a
special ingredient used in many soy and dairy
products, baked goods, medical foods, nutritional supplements, and other foods. A new channel
to manufacture scFOS will be installed at the
London Casco facility in late 2005.
London’s Lawson Health Research Institute
(LHRI), is Canada’s third largest research institute. Owned and managed by St. Joseph’s Health
Care London and the London Health Sciences
Centre, the LHRI oversees all hospital-based
research in London, has an annual budget of
over $45-million and employs over 400 investigators. The LHRI has a special focus on robotic
surgery, maternal and newborn health, stateof-the-art medical imaging, diabetes, probiotics,
rehabilitation and geriatric care and wound healing. Its spin-off companies have done well. The
LHRI is currently involved in a number of
valuable partnerships with private industry,
including Abbott, GE, Pfizer, 3M, Johnson and
Johnson, Bayer and Pharmacia.
The Robarts Research Institute in London is
Canada’s largest privately funded research
institution. Its more than 48 leading medical
scientists regularly make headlines with their
discoveries and leading-edge research. The
Institute’s areas of focus include advanced imaging,
autoimmunity/diabetes, gene therapy, heart/circulation and stroke/neurodegenerative diseases.
Many discoveries made at Robarts have been
turned into successful private ventures in London.
The University of Western Ontario is a significant
contributor to the life sciences sector in London.
In fall 2004, Western opened a $23-million
nanofabrication laboratory unique to Canada
because of its equipment and capabilities. This
facility will allow for great strides in cutting-edge
nanoscience — research that can be measured on
the nanoscale, or one billionth of a metre.
Research at the lab focuses on photonics — the
harnessing of light. This technology lends itself
to a variety of sectors and may provide new ways
to administer pharmaceuticals.
Also in the fall, Hong Ling, assistant professor
in the Department of Biochemistry at Western,
was named Canada’s top new investigator by the
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).
Ling was recruited from the National Institutes
of Health in the U.S. in 2003. She has been
described as an “upcoming star in the field of
DNA replication and repair.” Ling’s research
focuses on understanding the molecular structure and function of proteins involved in the
replication of damaged DNA.
The SHARCNet (Shared Hierarchical
Academic Research Computing Network) project is a major initiative for southwestern Ontario.
SHARCNet is a High Performance Computing
continued on page 8
8
Perspective
continued from page 7
(HPC) institute that serves 11 leading academic
institutions in South Central Ontario and
exists to support leading-edge research. HPC,
also called supercomputing, permits scientists to
use very powerful computers to increase the
speed of their research in a cost-effective, virtual
environment, and in many cases, to tackle
complex scientific problems that could not
otherwise be studied.
Western will also soon be home to a state-ofthe-art environmental research facility unlike
any other in Canada. It will provide researchers
with controlled environmental technology to
simulate climate change with respect to temperature, carbon dioxide concentrations, UV radiation, water status and quality, and pollutants to
assess their impact on plants, animals, insects
and micro-organisms. This facility will be linked
to scientists at several Canadian universities, and
will also involve collaborative work with universities around the world.
“The University continues to build a variety of
innovative and diverse facilities that will ensure
ample opportunities for significant advances in
research that will improve people’s lives in
London and around the world,” says Ted Hewitt,
Western’s vice-president (research). “This, in
turn, enables us to further attract academic lead-
TM
LONDON 2005
Healthcare for a growing city
Emergency services in London hospitals are changing
ogether, London Health Sciences Centre
and St. Joseph’s Health Care, London are
taking bold new steps toward a vision of
healthcare excellence.
They have already led the way in integrating
services and sharing resources. Now in the midst
of the largest construction project in London’s
history, they are implementing the most significant milestone of their restructuring plans to
re-build world class healthcare facilities.
The vision for London hospitals is not solely
about new buildings. It is about providing
physicians and staff with the tools they need to
give patients the best possible care.
Toward that end, much is changing.
T
Students at work in Western's Chemistry Lab.
ers, students and the best minds in a variety of
fields to the city.”
With such a critical support network, London
has a bright future in this emerging sector.
Over the coming four to five months, emergency services will consolidate at London
Health Sciences Centre in expanded facilities at
Victoria and University campuses.
St. Joseph’s Hospital became the city’s focal
point for ambulatory care and day surgery with
the opening of a new Urgent Care Centre on
February 16. The centre offers one-stop services
for people with non-life threatening illness or
injury who need immediate treatment. The new
centre will lighten the load in emergency rooms.
The road ahead is challenging but full of
promise. At the end of this journey, we will set
a standard of healthcare excellence that will
endure for generations to come.
Perspective
TM
9
LONDON 2005
Healing the world, one by
PDN Medical sends remarkable healing product to world markets
revolutionary skin solution that is
making roadways into international markets is being produced by yet another life
sciences company that has chosen London for its
head office.
ONE works with and enhances the body’s own
healing powers. It’s an over-the-counter skin
treatment that conveniently comes in sprays and
gels that heal, soothe and treat wounds and
burns. These simple, non-toxic products have a
powerful killing effect on a variety of organisms,
including antibiotic-resistant bacteria, while
allowing for accelerated healing to occur in a
natural way.
“ONE successfully healed or substantially
improved most of the wounds that failed to
improve with other medications,” said Elzbieta
Kurowska, vice-president, research and development, KGK Synergize Inc. after seeing results in
clinical trials.
Clinical trials in North America treating
chronic wounds with ONE solution produced
A
incredible results. Wounds healed three times
faster and there was a significant improvement in
nearly 80 per cent of all wounds. A clinical trial
in China produced similarly impressive results;
infection rates were four times less and swelling
and oozing decreased 36 per cent faster than with
other medicines. Canadian labs have proven that
ONE kills 99.9 per cent of harmful bacteria.
“The overwhelming evidence that our products work, coupled with our company’s determination and perseverance to provide the best, have
taken ONE to its current level of success,” says
Diane Padoin, president of PDN Medical Inc.
With the growing success of its medical products, PDN Medical developed retail consumer
products in 2002. ONE for Cuts and Burns is an
effective first-aid product that is safe for the
whole family. It soothes and heals cuts, scrapes,
burns, blisters, sores, rashes, bug bites, itching,
inflammation and more. ONE for Sunburns is a
soothing, natural way to treat the painful sting of
sunburn and promotes healing of sun-damaged
skin. Little ONE for Baby Bums is a gentle, natural, no-sting product that is safe for all areas. It
is specially formulated to eliminate germs associated with diaper rash. This gentle formula has no
harsh ingredients — no alcohol, no zinc and no
fragrance.
PDN Medical has made significant investments in taking its products international. In
2003, the company created its subsidiary, PDN
Medical International Inc., to focus on its growing global business. PDN International Inc. is
currently working closely with Asia’s rapidly
growing markets to supply products there. In
2001, the company participated in Team Canada
China Trade Mission, proving its sincere intent
to work internationally, and establishing the
future for long-term working relationships with
China. Other markets where PDN Medical’s
international strategy positions ONE products
include Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Southeastern
Asian countries.
“I am optimistic about prospects for the glob-
Diane Padoin, President and CEO of PDN Medical Inc.
al economy and believe PDN Medical is a facet of
healthcare reform and a ‘solution’ to issues,” says
Padoin. “Making good products available to
those who need them will be our contribution to
help ‘heal the world one by ONE.’”
Enter to win!
Fill out the ballot and mail it to the address below, or
visit our website and enter to win a ONE prize pack.
Name
Address
City
Postal Code
Effectively kills bacteria, promotes healing and provides cool, soothing pain relief for a wide range of skin conditions.
Alcohol-free and fragrance-free formula. ONE is a unique, non-greasy, natural product that is safe for the whole family.
Visit www.pdnmedical.com for more information
E-mail
Province
(
)
Phone Number
ONE Contest
PDN Medical Inc.
700 Richmond St. Suite #316
London, Ontario, Canada N6A 5C7
Perspective
10
TM
LONDON 2005
Today’s healthcare, tomorrow’s promise
CSTAR revolutionizes surgery at the world's first interdisciplinary research & training facility
avigating
human
technology.
Revolutionizing patient care. Innovating
clinical learning. Researchers at CSTAR
(Canadian Surgical Technologies & Advanced
Robotics) are pushing the frontiers of medicine
every day. Canada’s national centre for developing and testing the next generation of minimally
invasive surgeries and interventions including
robotics, is a world leader in surgical innovation
and training, teaching space-age technologies
and new techniques to the surgeons of the future.
CSTAR grew out of the vision of a surgical team
at London Health Sciences Centre. Supported by a
$1-million private donation from Londoners
Richard and Beryl Ivey to buy a surgical robot, the
team went on to perform world-first cardiac surgeries and robotic surgical telementoring. CSTAR
was officially launched in December 2001 as a collaborative research program of London Health
Sciences Centre and Lawson Health Research
Institute. Funding was provided in part by Canada
Foundation for Innovation, the Ontario government and the London Health Sciences
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Foundation. Grant monies from the federal government established CSTAR as a national centre
for minimally invasive robotic surgery.
Today, CSTAR is the first interdisciplinary
research and training facility in the world to bring
together practitioners, students and researchers in
medicine including surgery, engineering, imaging,
robotics, information technology and business.
Project teams have attracted $18.2-million to fund
discoveries in many areas of medicine, from
robotic fetal procedures to cancer therapy.
The current focus at CSTAR is on robotics and
the best known successes have been in cardiac
surgery. However, researchers are in the process of
developing a number of new procedures, including fetal robotic surgery. Scientists are also
exploring the delivery of therapeutic agents (i.e.,
radiation seeds to treat cancer) using robotics.
Long distance treatment for remote communities
(war zones, arctic, space) is also on the horizon.
Using telesurgery and telementoring (remote
operating tools), CSTAR is creating a new wave of
medical professionals who will bring life and
Navigating Human Technology
Revolutionizing Patient Care
Innovating Clinical Learning
Pushing the frontiers of medicine
toward an incredible future
visit us at www.c-star.ca
Dr. Patrick Luke, CSTAR scientist and urologist at London Health Sciences is seated at the console of the ZEUS®,
a prototype for telesurgery.
time-saving techniques into operating rooms
across Canada and around the world.
CSTAR is also dedicated to improving the
skills of surgeons and interventionalists by developing the most fully integrated surgical training
facility in the world. With the help of industry
partners, the Kelman Centre for Advanced
Learning is vital to the skill development necessary to take research from the lab to the operating room. Innovations in treating many different
disease processes will also be accomplished
through Kelman.
CSTAR has great potential to spur the creation
of many new surgical methods and products. Over
50 industrial jobs will be created in eight years and
over 50 institutional jobs and studentships in five
years. Research into new techniques and technologies will follow the path from exploration and discovery to dissemination. Projected commercialization will contribute a minimum of $30-million
over eight years to provincial and local economies.
CSTAR researchers will pursue new technologies and innovations in all areas of minimally
invasive interventions. The dedicated research
teams care passionately about how technology
translates into patient care. Research must make
a difference to people, if it is to make a difference
at all. And at CSTAR, innovative health research
is at the heart of improved health for Canadians
and people around the world.
Perspective
TM
LONDON 2005
Building a reputation for research
Lawson, Robarts and Western lead discovery process in London
ondon is renowned as a centre of innovation and discovery, a reputation led by the
city’s premiere research facilities: Lawson
Health Research Institute, Robarts Research
Institute and The University of Western Ontario.
This breadth and depth of research excellence
promotes a culture of collaboration and brings
world-class research to market, while playing a
key role in supporting the future of local and
Canadian economies.
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Lawson Health Research Institute
(www.lhrionhealth.ca)
Business Development at Lawson, one of the
largest hospital-based research institutes in
Canada, promotes progressive development in
healthcare by expanding traditional concepts of
technology transfer. Our focus is to deliver
strategic and creative solutions for the opportunities and challenges faced by our clients in the
healthcare industry.
Opportunities that exist at Lawson:
• Licensing technologies
• Co-development, evaluation and testing
from in vitro to human models
• Clinical trials experience, over 1,600 now
ongoing (Phase I to Phase III)
• Internationally recognized site for basic
and clinical experimentation
• Sensitivity to confidential information; IP
protection
• Profile through publication and presentation
of data
• Internationally recognized programs
• International collaborations in more than
25 countries
that delivers innovation with:
• More than 70 patents filed, building on
Robarts’ scientific strength at the interface
of medical imaging, biology and clinical trials
• Fourteen commercial licenses negotiated,
generating annual gross revenues in excess of
$2-million for the Institute, its partners and
its scientists
• Eight biomedical companies formed, which
have attracted more than $45-million in
investment capital and employ nearly 70
people in London
As the research arm of London Health
Sciences Centre and St. Joseph’s Healthcare
London, our mission is to help people live
healthier lives through advanced science in a
patient care setting.
All of this supports an important medical mission: accelerating discovery to improve the diagnosis, treatment and — ultimately — the prevention of disease.
Robarts Research Institute (www.robarts.ca)
Is it possible to stimulate excellent science while at
the same time harnessing its full potential to
improve the health of Canadians? At Robarts, we
believe it is not only possible but is the ideal
approach to ensure a healthy and prosperous future.
In fewer than eight years, Robarts Business
Development has established a solid track record
The University of Western Ontario
(www.uwo.ca)
One of Canada’s leading research-intensive universities, Western is the province’s third largest
university. Home to a broad range of faculties,
interdisciplinary centres, research groups and
facilities, research has flourished in a wide variety
of fields, leading to:
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• Partnerships with industry, including 3M
• More than 10 spin-off companies, including
EK3
• More than a dozen patents and $800,000 in
licensing opportunities since 2002
• The creation of Centres of Excellence,
including the Canadian Language & Literacy
Network
• The building of state-of-the-art research
facilities unique in the world, including the
Biotron, for studies of controlled ecosystems,
and the 3 Little Pigs project, for testing fullscale buildings in various environments
Research is an investment that provides a high
rate of return for a knowledge-based economy
and Western has the infrastructure, expertise and
innovation required to excel. Located adjacent to
the campus, Western’s Research and
Development Park is an incubator designed
specifically to accommodate laboratories and
research and development facilities.
With more than $187-million in research funding and 30 new inventions reported last year,
Lawson, Robarts and Western work closely with
community, private sector, government and
research granting organization partners in knowledge transfer initiatives. The commercialization of
research allows for the retention of leading minds
locally, provides a tangible example of the relevance
of research and provides both alliances and benefits
to the community, the country and the world.
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1
2
6
5
4
8
9
1. Thompson & Sons, King Street, circa 1900
2. Operators at Bell’s London switchboard, 1896
3. Fire hall, King Street, circa 1880
4. Market Square, circa 1912
5. Talbot Street, tarring cedar blocks, circa 1905
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6.
7.
8.
9.
City Hall, Richmond Street, circa 1910
Dundas Street, circa 1915
Dundas Street, 1885
Market Square, circa 1915
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P e r s p e c t i v e LONDON
London celebrates 150 years
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2005
By Tamara Slomka
ondon has a rich history 150 years in the
making. It was brimming with 10,000 people in 1854 and officially became a city the
following year. Thirty years later, it began to
expand with the annexation of the town of
London East. Its last acquisition, in 1993, saw the
city increase its area nearly four-fold, making it
larger than countries such as Malta. London’s
population has also grown accordingly. In the
early 1950s it surpassed 100,000 and now exceeds
340,000.
If you didn’t make any plans to celebrate
London’s 150th anniversary, don’t worry because
the City of London has it covered. With a number of unique events planned throughout the
year, the City has provided Londoners the opportunity “to celebrate and reflect on their changing
and evolving city.”
Slated for later this year is a vintage baseball
game and reunion at the world’s oldest ball park
still in use, Labatt Park. Hearkening back to
much earlier days, the game will pit the
Tecumsehs against the Woodstock Actives, followed by a reunion for all who used the park.
Richmond Street, looking south towards Queens Avenue, circa 1875.
Londoners will also enjoy vintage green fees this
July 1 at The Hickory Course at Thames Valley
Golf Club. A round will cost $1 as it did so many
years ago, around 1924.
The calendar of events is not without culture.
Orchestra London presents an opera that was called
a one-night wonder when it played at The Grand
Theatre and starred Sarah Bernhardt in 1896. Many
anticipate the return of Tosca to The Grand this
year. Performance dates are June 3, 5, 7, 9 and 11.
To ensure that the Forest City continues to live
up to its name, the City has launched the legacy
project “ReForest London 150.” The aim of the
program is to plant trees in yards, streets, parks
and woodlands, and the City of London challenges Londoners to plant 150 trees in their
respective neighbourhoods.
To learn more about this year’s initiatives visit
www.celebrate150.london.ca
Source: Dan Brock
Happy 150th Anniversary London
from TD Bank Financial Group
London, Ontario became a city in 1855, the same year we at
TD Bank Financial Group first opened our doors.
Over the past century and a half, all of us at TD Bank Financial Group
have been pleased to be part of the London community. Today, our
second-largest Canadian operation is located in the Forest City.
Thanks for sharing the past 150 years with us, London.
We look forward to celebrating with you!
Perspective
14
TM
LONDON 2005
Home to leading learning
University and college supply local business with well-educated workforce
usinesses choosing London often mention the
attraction of a skilled workforce. Compared
with other metropolitan centers, the population’s level of education is considerably higher. The
difference is easily explained by the presence of a university, a college and more than 20 registered private
vocational and private sector training schools.
“Access to skills training for both pre-employment and post-employment is critical to the
growth and development of our local businesses
and industry sectors,” says Jeny Wallace, director
of workforce development with London
Economic Development Corporation (LEDC).
“Knowledge and understanding of just what is
available becomes important as do the linkages
between the training institutes themselves and the
business they supply.” As part of the Workforce
Development Strategy, LEDC is working with its
many partners to help develop these connections.
The University of Western Ontario is Canada’s
fourth largest university and has more than
32,000 full-time students and 190,000 alumni
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worldwide. Students choose from more than 60
undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs. Since 1998, Western has been one of the
fastest growing universities in Ontario. It has
three colleges affiliated with it — King’s
University College, Brescia University College
and Huron University College. The University’s
schools of medicine, engineering, business and
law boast international recognition.
Western is one of the country’s top researchintensive universities. Research funding at the university was up 25 per cent last year to $187-million.
Western was involved in 145 research contracts
with industry valued at almost $7.7-million last
year and another $11-million in clinical trials
research at Western and its affiliated research institutes. This research has direct benefits on the health
and well-being of Londoners and Canadians.
Located on the Western campus, the Richard
Ivey School of Business has been ranked by the Wall
Street Journal as the number one MBA school outside of the U.S. More than 250 of the world’s top
MBA students graduate from the school each year.
Fanshawe College is one of Ontario’s largest
community colleges. More than 15,000 full-time
and 36,000 part-time students are trained at the
London-based college each year. Fanshawe also has
campuses in St. Thomas, Simcoe and Woodstock
with smaller centres in Tillsonburg and Strathroy.
Fanshawe is one of the most popular colleges
in Ontario. “We are often students’ first or second
choice on college applications,” says Emily
Marcoccia, manager of marketing and communications for the college. “We produce a good
‘product,’ and as a result, we’ve become extremely
well-known.”
The college works closely with industry to
determine current and future skill requirements.
Fanshawe conducts reviews of its curriculum
through advisory committees made up of local
business people every three years. More than 30
per cent of Fanshawe programs are co-op
programs, which combine working at a local
business with class study. Its co-op database
A Western student conducting greenhouse research.
registers well over 2,000 local employers and the
college co-ordinates approximately 4,000
apprentice positions.
Collège Boréal is Southwestern Ontario’s only
French-language college. With seven campuses
throughout Ontario and one virtual campus,
Collège Boréal provides London employers with
competent bilingual graduates they can count on
for years to come. In London, Collège Boréal
offers specialized programs, including business
French, French improvement for health professionals, first aid, computer science, and customized business training, among others.
More and more businesses are taking advantage
of this rich destination for postsecondary education.
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Changing the Face of Education
Ultimate
shopping destination
Downtown, big-box, shopping centres make up retail options
By Tamara Slomka
ith more shopping per capita than
anywhere else in North America,
London is the ultimate shopping destination. London has also been identified as one of
the primary retail test communities in Canada,
making it a desirable place to set up shop.
Retailers and entrepreneurs are doing just that
in downtown London. The downtown district
offers everything from quality jewelry to specialty tea. Visit some of the unique stores where the
owners are behind the counters waiting to lend
their expertise.
Some of London’s key downtown retailers
include Novack’s, an outdoor store that sells
travel and recreational items, houses a bookstore,
and uniform division, and presents talks with
travelers, and Kingsmill’s, a unique department
store with an old-world feel and products.
Whether you’re looking for a haircut, or a new
pair of shoes you will find it at one of London’s
numerous shopping malls. Westmount
Shopping Centre is only moments from
Highway 402 and has been a shopping destination for southwestern Ontario since 1973.
Westmount is easy to navigate with its uncomplicated layout. Choose from 130 stores, including Sears, Zellers, Cineplex Odeon and an A&P
grocery store.
For 20 years now, Masonville Place has been a
fashion-forward shopping destination in
London. Over seven million people visited
Masonville Place in 2004. Over two million
of those visitors were from out of town. Through
the years the shopping centre has experienced
many changes including an indoor golf course
built in 1990, retail expansion in 1991, tearing
down the golf course in 1999 to expand for
more stores, and the conversion of Loblaws
into Silver City movie theatres in 2000. In 2005,
look for new “comfort seating” sections on the
upper level.
Shoppers can also take advantage of additional free services including strollers, wheelchairs,
nursing stations, coat check, parcel check, lost
and found, battery boosting, and a great walking
program. For a nominal fee, you can also have
your gifts wrapped or use the Child Care facilities. Masonville Place also offers the ‘shop!’ card,
a great gift for those hard to buy for people. The
shop! card can be used at over 4,000 stores, in
over 25 shopping centres across Canada.
If that isn’t enough you can also browse
through stores at the Galleria, a mixed-use centre
where you can find a number of retailers and
services, a fitness facility, a cinema, and The
University of Western Ontario’s Centre for
Continuing Studies.
While visiting one of London’s most treasured
cultural landmarks you can also pick up a few
things. The Covent Garden Market was formally
established in 1845 and boasts the largest assortment of cheese in Southwestern Ontario, and the
best selection of organic foods in the city.
To enhance the shopping experience even further, London is seeing a retail development
boom that includes a surge of big-box retailers.
North London is home to Wal-Mart, Old Navy
and Sam’s Shop, but that’s just the beginning.
Wellington Street South has seen growth with
the arrival of Wellington Commons this past
year. Among the plaza’s 17 outlet stores are
Pier 1 Imports, Motherhood Maternity, and
the kitchen bed-and-bath superstore Home
Outfitters.
With all of the existing business and development slated for the next couple of years it
appears that the Forest City might be competing
for more shopping per capita than anywhere else
in the world.
SOMETIMES IT’S
A GIRL THING.
Register for our online newsletter at masonvilleplace.ca.
Over 200 Stores
and Services
Masonville Place is home to more than 200 stores and
boasts many customer-friendly “extras.”
masonvilleplace.ca
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Perspective
16
TM
LONDON 2005
Gearing up for growth
Real estate options in London become more diverse
every year, builders deliver to meet demand
By Tamara Slomka
ith remarkable success over the past
couple of years, the London housing
market is gearing up for another
strong year.
For the fourth year in a row, the London and
St. Thomas Real Estate Board set a residential
sales record in 2004. The two-storey home took
first place with 1,746 sold, while bungalows drew
a close second with 1,443 sold.
Despite expectations that the market would
begin to cool down in the latter part of 2004, the
London area saw significant growth and broke
yet another record. By December of last year,
London’s surging construction had yielded 2,164
single-detached home starts breaking the record
of 2,117 set in 1989.
According to housing prices in London, from
January to April 2004, a standard two-storey
went for about $172,000, and a detached bunga-
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low for about $169,000, while an executivedetached two-storey rang in at about $221,000.
The London and St. Thomas Real Estate Board
posted 2004’s average price as $166,465.
One of the concerns felt province-wide is availability of land and a shortage of skilled labour.
Fortunately, London won’t be as affected by these
factors as other communities in the province.
London is in pretty good shape with a number of
skilled workers coming out of building technology courses at Fanshawe College each year.
“London is one of Ontario’s best-kept secrets,”
says Alan Churchill, president of the London Home
Builders Association (LHBA) and partner of Reid’s
Heritage Homes’ London division, referring to the
city’s popularity. “It’s a major city jewel that’s been
overlooked and is finally coming into its own.”
Many developers have realized the gold mine
of real estate opportunity in London.
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Lexington Ranch by Fusion Homes in Komoka is only 12 minutes to Masonville Mall and offers two-storey and bungalow
designs that boast luxurious featues. Shown above is the 1,480-square-foot Allure model.
Development in the north and west areas of the
city has taken off in the past few years. North
London developments are close to shopping
malls, schools, services, The University of
Western Ontario, the London airport and two
world-class hospitals. Sifton’s Richmond Hill
subdivision of single and two-level homes is situated in a peaceful setting close to amenities. The
first phase of single-family detached homes at
Uplands Crossing by Drewlo Holdings boasts
beautiful surroundings, fantastic views and
shopping convenience.
In west London, homebuyers also enjoy plenty
of shopping options with many big box stores, as
well as proximity to the country. Talbot Village
by Reid’s Heritage Homes will be a masterplanned community encompassing 200 acres
when complete. Fusion Homes’ Lexington Ranch
in Komoka, just outside London’s west end, is
close to a selection of golf courses second to none.
Condominiums have become one of London’s
most popular new-home options with one in five
new-home buyers opting for the convenience
and security of condominium living. Forecasters
are predicting that condominiums’ share of newhome sales will continue to grow.
Domus Developments builds some of the best
condo communities in London, St. Thomas and
Port Stanley. An award-winning builder of innovative residential and condominium homes in
and around London, Domus focuses on innovative designs, choice sites, quality construction
and attention to customer service.
“Most builders ensure beautifully decorated
interiors in their models, but forget about the
exterior,” says Dominic Mescia, president of
Domus. The models of Domus’ newest developments go beyond the interior with a sunroom in
the rear, a completely finished backyard with
swimming pool, hot tubs, outdoor BBQ and landscaping. “We show them exactly what it will look
like with all the extras they’d put in themselves.”
There are a number of London communities
that exemplify Mescia’s vision for unique designs,
the use of natural materials, stunning rooflines with
interior loft spaces, colour variety, and natural surroundings including greenspace preservation.
Westmount Pines is an enclave of 22 executive,
one-floor condominiums located in one of
London’s newest neighbourhoods and featuring
private terraces and front porches.
Woodland Trails offers a Muskoka style in the
city with 63 executive condos attached and
detached in a natural setting in north London,
with frontage onto a private road and access to
an extensive natural area.
River Oaks is an upscale community of 37
detached executive homes on a scenic ridge overlooking the Thames River valley in London.
Meeting the needs of new homebuyers has
never been more challenging, but Domus’ mix of
contemporary designs, modern construction techniques and old-world craftsmanship and service is
proving to be a very successful combination.
The healthy growth in London’s real estate
market is expected to remain stable in 2005.
Simplify your home purchase with Fusion Homes
uying a new home doesn’t have to be complicated and Fusion Homes is dedicated to
making it easier. Delivering each home
on-time is an example of this commitment.
“We’ve never missed or extended a deadline,”
says Alicia Robertson, Director of
Communications with Fusion Homes.
In 2004, Fusion became a part of EnerGuide
for New Houses, a scalable rating system that
calculates the energy efficiency of the home.
Fusion Homes’ Links of Meander Creek is a
new community of link-style townhomes in
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North London offering private corridor access
to an oversized backyard.
Stoney Creek Gate, also in North London,
is just minutes from downtown.Many lots back onto
conservation land and natural water reserve.
Lexington Ranch in Komoka, just six minutes outside London offers small town, country
living with a minimum of 20 feet between
neighbours on either side of each home.
For more information about these communities please visit us online at www.fusionhomes.com. Or call toll free 1-877-862-8850.
Perspective
18
any people move to London for business reasons, but stay for quality of life.
London’s arts, culture and recreation
opportunities present Londoners and visitors
with many reasons to make “the forest city” their
long-term home.
Londoners recognize the importance of arts
and culture in their community and have developed a taskforce committed to its growth.
London is the first city in Canada to establish a
Creative Cities Taskforce. “We’ve had wonderful
public feedback,” says Gord Hume, chair of the
Creative Cities Taskforce and publisher of
Canada’s largest community newspaper, The
Londoner. “It’s not just about putting pretty pictures on the wall. Culture is part of the infrastructure of a city. The taskforce plans to release
its first report in April.
London already enjoys a very rich cultural
identity. Arts and culture buffs can satisfy their
cravings at Orchestra London, London Musical
Theatre, London Museum of Archeology,
London Regional Children’s Museum, and the
London Regional Art and Historic Museums
which have a permanent collection of more than
3,000 works of art as well as special and touring
exhibits. The renowned Stratford Festival is
about a 45-minute drive from London.
The Grand Theatre in London is the only pro-
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M
(Left to right) The London Children’s Museum, East Park, and The Grand Theatre are among London's activities for all ages.
Leisure loving London
Arts, culture and recreation options promise an active leisure scene
fessional regional theatre in southwestern
Ontario, and is always staging something or someone exciting. The theatre strives to challenge and
complement the business side of the London
community. “Theatre goes hand in hand with the
whole idea of holistic education,” says Carol
Kehoe, director of marketing and development at
the Grand. “Our societies don’t work when they’re
focused on one thing. We’re part of the fabric.”
London’s nightlife scene, both downtown and
throughout the city, presents a variety of clubs
and restaurants for nearly any musical, dining,
drinking, dancing taste and age. For sports fans,
London is home to one of the most beautiful
LONDON 2005
natural turf baseball fields in North America and
a network of ball diamonds large enough to host
an international softball tournament. The city
has the most public parks of any city outside the
Greater Toronto Area, where all kinds of festivals
from folk to international music to hot air balloons and food fairs are held. Lake Huron beaches can be found only one hour to London’s north
and west. To the south, beaches on Lake Erie can
be reached in 30 minutes.
Family fun lovers visit East Park/Intencity &
Wally World for its range of activities from minigolf, go-karts, and batting cages to the new Wally
World Water Park, rock climbing, bumper cars,
and a jungle gym and video games. There's also
an 18-hole executive golf course. Part of the
London scene since 1963, the Park recently
underwent a $2-million expansion that involved
relocating a major waterslide when Wally World
closed down and the slide was moved to East
Park. It is now the only major waterpark between
Woodstock and Windsor.
Storybook Gardens in Springbank Park allows
families to become part of the story when they
enter the Storybook Castle to visit Pirates Island,
Storybook Valley, the Enchanted Forest, Old
McDonald’s Farm, Slippery’s Great Escape, the
Village, and the Frog Pond.
London is about much more than business.
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T H E TA L B OT C E N T R E • R I C H M O N D C O U R T • D U F F E R I N C O R P O R AT E C E N T R E
TM
P e r s p e c t i v e LONDON
Recognition where it’s due
19
2005
Shmuel Farhi wins provincial award for province-wide portfolio
hmuel Farhi is likely the largest landlord in
downtown London and definitely one of
the city’s largest business players. His
accomplishments were recognized on a provincial level in November, 2004 at the Ontario
Chamber of Commerce annual awards ceremony
when Farhi Holdings Corporation was presented
with an Outstanding Business Achievement
Award. More than 1,200 business and political
leaders were present at the gala dinner.
Farhi was nominated by the St. Thomas
Chamber of Commerce for building an impressive real estate portfolio that stretches across
Ontario and for exemplifying other attributes
the award panel was looking for.
“He remains one of the most significant developers our community has ever welcomed,” says
Bob Hammersley, president and CEO of the St.
Thomas Chamber of Commerce. “He has
accomplished more in 10 years than others have
in 100 years or more.” One of Farhi’s most
notable St. Thomas buildings is the Elgin County
courthouse, built in 1853. “He’s helped preserve
S
a lot of character in our community and others.
He’s a legend in our community.”
Farhi Holdings has expanded rapidly across
Ontario in the last few years. In addition to London,
it currently has properties in Windsor, St. Thomas,
Kitchener, Cambridge, Stoney Creek, Hamilton,
Kingston, Oshawa, Ottawa and points in between.
The company also owns land throughout London.
Many Farhi properties are restored, historic
buildings. Two jewels of his real estate crown
in London are the Royal Bank building on
Richmond Street and the TD-Canada Trust
building on Dundas St. Last year, Farhi Holdings
purchased the 1.4-hectare former Ivest
Properties block, north of Victoria Park for
$12.3-million. One of the largest private
downtown London land deals in years, the
block is home to prestigious Victorian homes,
luxury apartments, and commercial, retail and
office space.
As a landlord, Farhi has a reputation for quick
response and complete customer satisfaction.
“He’s a tremendously tenant-centric landlord
Entrepreneur Shmuel Farhi of Farhi Holdings Corporation has boosted downtown revitalization efforts in London.
who tries to do everything he can to make the
tenant experience a positive one,” says Gord
MacKenzie, regional vice-president of RBC, a
Farhi Holdings tenant. “He’s quick to respond to
any requests that we make.”
“He’s a real believer in the downtown,” says Vic
Cote, general manager of finance and corporate
service with the City of London of Farhi’s sub-
stantial investments in downtown London. “He’s
very aggressive when it comes to trying to bring
new tenants into his buildings, which is exactly
what the city wanted when it started its downtown renewal process. If we didn’t have investors
like him in our downtown, we’d have to work a
lot harder trying to replace restructured companies. He’s made our job a lot easier.”
CITY OF LONDON
Aquatic Services
•
3 Indoor Pools
•
12 Outdoor Pools
Come be a part of the story!
•
7 Spray pads
Splash Pad • Rock Climbing • Net Play • Pirate Ship
Old MacDonald’s Farm • A Cast of Characters
Treasure Chest Gift Shop
•
20 Wading Pools
Open 7 Days a Week
Seasonal Hours
519-661-5770
There’s always something new
going on at Storybook Gardens! [email protected] www.storybook.london.ca
There’s something for everyone. Splash, spray, climb, slide or just plain
swim. Try our water slides and climbing wall, or splash in our spray pads.
Call 519-661-4455 for more information
20
Perspective
TM
LONDON 2005
A strong, available, skilled and educated workforce is one of London’s most attractive features to manufacturing companies.
tarlim Sterner searched Canada and the
U.S. for a location for its North American
manufacturing facility. The high-tech company’s top criteria included a highly skilled workforce and links to educational facilities. It found
both in London. After two years in the city,
Starlim Sterner says its confidence has been wellplaced. “Even recently we put up a few job postings and got some incredible resumes back,” says
Vijai Lakshmikanthan, VP of operations.
Starlim Sterner was also looking for a place
with which it was comfortable. Lakshmikanthan
says the company was impressed with how the
community and the London Economic
Development Corporation (LEDC) came forward to facilitate things for them. “We haven’t
looked back on our decision,” he says.
S
Greasing the wheels of
INNOVATION
London was rated the fastest growing industrial
city in Ontario by the Conference Board of Canada
in 2003. Since its first major manufacturer, Labatt,
set up in 1800, many others have joined the
London region’s ranks including 3M Canada,
General Motors, McCormick Canada, Delta
Faucet, Accuride, Ford, CAMI Automotive Sterling
Trucks and recently Brose, Keiper Canada and
Transform Automotive to name a few.
“We’ve been very pleased with the number of
new companies coming to London over the past
few years as well as the number of expanding
local companies,” says Steve Glickman, director
of business growth and retention. “A significant
number of new jobs have been created.”
And the forecast looks good for 2005.
Predictions are that London will enjoy healthy
growth, particularly in the manufacturing sector.
Canada’s real gross domestic product (GDP) is
predicted to expand by 2.5 to 3.2 per cent in 2005.
“Its a very diverse economy,” says Glickman.
London doesn’t rely on one particular type of manufacturing, but boasts a variety from auto parts,
building product materials and packaging to green
companies.“Were firing on more than one cylinder.”
London has been successful in attracting a
broad range of business for a number of reasons,
but one stands out. “With site selectors, the bottom line is still the bottom line,” says Glickman.
“The factor that rises to the top most often is the
cost of doing business — things like the cost of
land, building, and other initial capital outlays as
well as annual operating costs.” He says site selectors are also looking for access to a strong, available skilled workforce, proximity to their market
and supplier base, and quality of life.
London fits the bill. Its within an eight-hour
drive of 150 million people, in the middle of a
major 400-series highway corridor, has a skilled
and energetic workforce, available industrial land,
a leading full-spectrum university
(The
University of Western Ontario), a first-rate community college (Fanshawe College) with extensive
technology programs, and the Ivey School of
Business, which has the top-ranked MBA program in Canada. Add to that an extensive Regional
Healthcare system and a renowned quality of life.
Magee Reiter Automotive, Kieper Automotive
Limited and Brose Canada are a few companies
that recently choose London. Magee Rieter chose
the city for its first satellite plant based on great
location, clear, reliable information and connections to key people. The company supplies fabricated carpet and acoustical floor systems to the
automotive industry.
Kieper Automotive Limited manufacturers
components and structures for vehicle seats
including backrest adjusters and complete seat
structures. The Germany-based company employs
nearly 6,000 employees worldwide. It established a
140,000-square-foot facility near Highway 100 in
London. General manager Uwe Schorpp says
Kieper has made great contacts with people from
Western, Fanshawe, and some of their business
neighbours through the LEDC.
Brose, another Germany-based company, found
London provided ready access to its North American
clients and a competitive business environment.
London’s manufacturing sector is well supported by a network of research and development institutes. The Integrated Manufacturing
Technologies Institute (IMTI) opened in London
in 1997 with a focus on the integration of manufacturing technologies as they relate to discrete
product manufacturing. The Institute is a leader
and a catalyst for the development and manufacturing technologies with activities concentrated
in design and production.
IMTI provides tools for manufacturers to
exchange design, manufacturing data and information in real time with others around the world.
The IMTI Virtual Environment Technologies
Centre (VETC) is the most advanced of its kind in
the world and gives manufacturers the opportunity to create a virtual reality model of a product.
The Faculty of Engineering at the University of
Western Ontario supports local manufacturing
with resources, research facilities and groups. The
Advanced Fluid Mechanics (AFM) Research Group
furthers research in fluid and thermal sciences and
promotes technology transfer with industry as well
as provides training for highly qualified personnel.
The Concurrent Engineering and Agile
Manufacturing Laboratory achieves a collaborative
approach to the product development cycle by pursuing leading-edge research to develop and apply
technologies and implement creative approaches to
engineering education. The Mechatronics Research
Laboratory conducts research to achieve optimum
performance of the electromechanical subsystems.
Fanshawe College has a number of programs
designed to meet the needs of the manufacturing
sector, including Manufacturing Engineering,
Mechanical Engineering, Electronics Engineering,
Control Engineering, Industrial Maintenance,
Mechanical Technology, and Tool and Die.
The London Region Manufacturing Council
(LRMC) is a non-profit, volunteer group that
acts as an advocate for London’s manufacturing
sector. Since its inception in 2003, the council has
grown rapidly and now represents many of the
400 manufacturers and related companies.
“LRMC attempts to foster the growth and
prosperity of manufacturing in the London
region,” says Denis Crane. “We act as a nucleus
and clearing centre for issues affecting manufacturing by forming ad hoc committees that
respond to problems as they arise.”
In September 2004, the LRMC hosted a highly
successful Reverse Trade Show. More than 500
people attended. “It was a way of stimulating
manufacturing by making buyers more available
to local manufacturers,” says Crane. The LRMC
was also an opportunity for manufacturers to
express opinions to the city on such things as
industrial water rates and new industrial property development charges.
The LRMC recently changed its structure to a
steering committee, which works like a wheel
hub. “When issues arise we can direct them to all
other members,” says Crane. “This allows the
efficient involvement of a broad group of manufacturers on issues of concern without a significant time commitment.”
London has all the necessary parts to make
manufacturing operations a smooth and innovative process.
Farhi
Holdings
C or p or at io n
F
Farhi Holdings Corporation provides first-class office
accommodations, retail space and residential apartments
throughout Ontario. We take great pride in our properties
and we understand that having satisfied tenants is our
greatest asset. Our sites are located in Ottawa, Kingston,
Oshawa, Hamilton, Stoney Creek, Kitchener, St. Thomas,
London and Windsor.
COMMERCIAL • RETAIL • RESIDENTIAL
Farhi Holdings Corporation
484 Richmond Street, Suite 200, London, ON N6A 3E6
Business: (519) 645-6666 Fax: (519) 645-7735
www.fhc.ca
05
P e
r sTpOUR
e c t iA
v ROUND
e L O N D O N 2 0L
ONDON
TM
The Grand Theatre
471 Richmond Street
London, ON N6A 3E4
Phone: (519) 672-8800 or toll free
1-800-265-1593
Fax: (519) 672-2620
www.grandtheatre.com
As one of nine Category A theatres in the country, The Grand Theatre is recognized nationally as a cultural leader. Family entertainment, musicals, comedies and dramas deal with
the light as well as the heavier issues such as gender discrimination and the complex
human dynamics of relationships. They’re presented in a forum that shows, not tells.
The building itself is a major asset, providing London with a 839-seat venue for
community groups and corporations and acting as a focal point for the city. Together
with Museum London and the Orchestra, The Grand provides an impressive cultural
environment for those considering the city of London as a place to live and work.
Museum London
421 Ridout Street North
London, Ontario, N6A 5H4
Tel: (519) 661-0333
Fax: (519) 661-2559
E-Mail: [email protected]
Website: www.museumlondon.ca
Museum London, overlooking the forks of the Thames River in downtown London,
features an impressive permanent collection of fine art and artifacts. Exhibitions of
internationally renowned national and regional artists are complemented by films,
lectures, and live performances. Photos, documents and rare artifacts tell the story
of London and region. Tuesday–Sunday, 12 noon to 5 pm. Admission is by donation.
Museum London also includes Eldon House at 481 Ridout Street North. The house
built in 1834, is the oldest surviving residence in London and contains family heirlooms, furnishings and priceless treasures of the Harris family, who built the home.
Capture the Moment! Play Together! Learn Together!
2004/05 CONCERT SEASON
Visit the London Regional Children's Museum, a hands-on,
interactive museum that encourages kids and their
grown-ups to explore, discover, play and learn together.
TIMOTHY VERNON, MUSIC DIRECTOR
Great music
Outstanding guest artists
Spectacular specials
Tosca at the Grand!
Programs and services offered include:
•Family Membership
•Birthday Parties
•Educational Field Trips
•Pre-school programs
•PD Day, March Break and Summer Day Camp
•New Leadership Day Camp starting this summer!
Celebrating 30 years of fun and learning!
Call 679-8778 or visit www.orchestralondon.ca
For more info & registration call the London Regional
Children's Museum (519) 434-5726 or visit
www.londonchildrensmuseum.ca
Perspective
TM
23
LONDON 2005
Where Business
STAY YOUR OWN WAY
Stays In London
When It Wants
To Expand
By 50%.
•
•
•
•
•
Select Suites Sleep Up To 6 People
Free In-Room High-Speed Internet
Free Buffet Breakfast, Newspaper & Parking
Meeting Rooms Available
Marriott Rewards®
Stay For a Night, a Week or Longer
383 C OLBORNE S TREET L ONDON , O NTARIO , C ANADA N6B 3P5
T E L : (519) 433-7222 F A X : (519) 433-7223 R E S : 1 (877) 477-8483
SM
It’s your time. Play, wine, dine,
shop, explore, rest. Cover all of life’s
essentials. Beautifully decorated
bedrooms & suites, refrigerators,
on-command movies, indoor
pool & fitness facilities, free high
speed internet, Timber’s Chop
House Restaurant and free parking.
More choices. More hospitality.
Downtown London
CENTRAL RESERVATIONS
1 800-331-3131
LONDON - WELLINGTON ROAD • Radisson Hotel & Suites
855 Wellington Road, London, ON N6E 3N5
519-668-7900 • www.radisson.com/londonca • 1-800-333-3333
For business and pleasure
Just seconds off Highway 401, we’re close to everything... but just beyond the range of daily distractions. For meetings, retreats, conventions and banquets, this is where business gets done. And at the
end of a long day, a great night’s rest awaits you in
the understated luxury and idyllic country setting
of London’s Country Inn & Conference Centre.
Now offering free high-speed internet access.
Experience. . . our exeptional service and warm
hospitality while away from home.
• London's only four diamond hotel located in the heart
of downtown
• 323 Spacious deluxe accommodation
• In room high speed internet access
• Over 30,000 sq ft of versatile meeting space
Food and wine lovers drive from all over Southern Ontario to frequent Pasto’s. This chic
bistro charms with a combination of casual elegance and superb food. Weekend features
supplement the traditional Italian-Mediterranean menu. The restaurant boasts classic
homemade desserts and an excellent wine list. For reservations call (519) 652-7659.
• Indoor heated swimming pool, fitness centre, whirlpool
and sauna
Where else but at the Hilton
Best Western Stoneridge Inn & Conference Centre
6675 Burtwistle Lane, Hwy. 401 & Hwy. 4, London
(519) 652-6022 Toll free: 1-888-471-2378
www.stoneridgeinn.com
Reserve online at www.Hilton.com, or phone 1-800-HILTONS
or the Hilton London Ontario at 519-439-1661.
U N IQ U E ATM O S PH E R E
Make the alternate choice
for your next client or staff
meeting. Your presentation
or social gathering will be
a memorable one . . .
C O N F E R E N C E A N D M E E T I N G FAC I L I T I E S AVA I L A B L E F O R R E N T
www.CentralLondonBusinessCentre.com
332 Central Avenue, London, Ontario N6B 2C8
Phone: 519-679-2580 Fax: 519-679-2508