March 2009

the

of

March 2009Vol 2 Issue III

thinkpositive

layoffsguide for employers

CHAMBER LAUNCHES

NEW PR CAMPAIGN

(SEE PAGE 4)

P.M. Agreement #1471570If undeliverable, return to: 175 George Street North, Peterborough, ON K9J 3G6

galacaribbean romance

TAKE A DRIVE DOWN “KAWARTHA LANE” AND EXPERIENCE THE DIFFERENCE

• Outstanding Course Condition

• Reciprocal Privileges at 4 top rated courses

• Multi-Membership options

• Great Family atmosphere

• Fantastic Junior Program

• Rated one of Ontario’s Best Layout

“A RARE GEM IN THE HEART OF PETERBOROUGH”

705.743.3737 • www.kawarthagolf.ca

There has never been abetter time to join!

Call Today!

AGMtuesday march 24th, 2009

Peterborough Curling Club 2195 Lansdowne Street West

time: 7:30 am – 9:30 amcost: $20 Members, $30 Non-Members

sponsored by:

annualgeneralmeeting

October 21, 2009trentwinds

internatiOnal Centre

e v e n i n gwww.peterboroughchamber.ca

Consider your Nominationsyear round

20xmorecustomers?

Want to attractup to

Enhanced Listings attract up to 20x more traffic than a Basic listing

Basic Enhanced

Sign up today, to be part of the Chamber’s new PromoPack which includes:

Contact Anne Arnold at (705) 748-9771 x 200 or [email protected] to find out more and sign-up today!

GOLFIt’s that time again, time to start thinking...GOLF!Our annual Golf Tournament will be held on June 10th at the Kawartha Golf & Country Club. To take advantage of the great sponsorship opportunities contact the Chamber.

A Business Networking Opportunity in a Trade Show Environment.

Come and meetHundred’s of Fellow Business people...

One on One!

September 16, 2009

1 unit 1.75” w X 2.125” h

Contact Anne for multiple unit sizes and file requirements.

MARKETplace

Meet the Chamber’s

New Marketplace.

Here is the location for you to be seen by over

1500 Chamber members and business groups

in Peterborough and the Kawarthas.

For just $65 per unit (max. 4 connected

units), you can list your business, service or

promotional message each month.

Receive a 5% discount for a 6 month commitment,

10% discount for a 12 month commitment.

Call Anne Arnold at 705-748-9771 x200

to book your space, first come-first served.

to check for availablity and secure your spot

contact: Anne Arnold, CSP 705.748.9771 x200yo

urad

here

contributors

yourstaffStuart Harrison Ext. 202 General ManagerCynthia Hamu Ext. 201 Office ManagerShelley Gauthier Ext. 204 Administrative AssistantAnne Arnold, CSP Ext. 200 Membership Services ManagerCathy Martin Ext. 214 Event Coordinator/Marketing AssistantLindsay Walker Ext. 210 Front Line CoordinatorKrista Laidley Ext. 205 Licensing SupervisorReception Ext. 0

yourboard executive/financeMary LaRocque Chair Marlin Travel Terry Merrill Past-Chair Holiday Inn Peterborough WaterfrontArlynn Dupuis Vice-Chair McGillen Ayotte Dupuis Tony Smith Treasurer Tristone Media GroupStuart Harrison Secretary Greater Peterborough Chamber of CommerceJef Dueck Director-At-Large 91.9BOBFM/Country 105/Energy 99.7Betty Johnson Director-At-Large Century 21 United Realty

directorsDick Crawford Crawford Building ConsultantsBob Doornenbal The Peterborough ExaminerBrad Hilker Peterborough Regional Health CentrePatric Marren Nationwide BarterDrew Merrett Merrett Home Hardware Building CentreJoel Parkes Kitty’s Erotic BoutiqueKamran Qayyum Siemens Milltronics Process Instruments Inc.Diane Wolf Trent University appointmentsMayor Paul Ayotte City of PeterboroughKarl Moher Douro-Dummer Deputy Reeve County of PeterboroughMarg Dawson Peterborough County Federation of Agriculture

The Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce

175 George St. N.Peterborough705.748.9771

www.peterboroughchamber.ca

Stuart Harrison is the General Manager of the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce and can be reached at 705.748.9771 x202 or [email protected]

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HARRiSoNBrian Stephenson is the Creative Director and owner of Treehouse Studio and can be reached at 705.930.5426 or [email protected]

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STePHeNSoNGord Evans is the CEO of the Workforce Development Board and can be reached at 705.749.3250 or [email protected]

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insideecoflyer 7

member matters 15

new members 16

chamber events 16 - club laurus - breakfast club

business after hours 17

benefacts 19

here’s my card 20

regular features

4 Think Positive

6 Advertising During Hard Times

8 Annual GalaA Caribbean Romance

10 Upcoming Events

12 LayoffsA guide for Employers

13 OCC news editoR cynthia hamudeSiGN treehouse studioCoveR PhotoS stuart harrison PRiNtiNG commercial press

THe voiCe of BuSiNeSS

4 thevoiceofbusiness

Burning the Midnight Oil?BDC Financing and Consulting

solutions: just one of the many ways we can help our clients get a better night’s sleep.

www.bdc.ca 1 888 INFO-BDC

BDC Peterborough 705-750-4801

stuart harrisonby

tIt’s helpful to compare what we’re going through now, with what we’ve gone through before.- The Bank of Canada predicts

that Canada’s 2009 GDP will shrink by up to 1.2%. In 1982 it fell by 3.2% and in 1991 by 1.8%. Even with the increased spending recently

announced in the Federal Budget, Canada’s debt-to-GDP ratio will rise to only 28%, the lowest level in the G7 group of industrialized countries.

- TD Economics is predicting the 2009 national unemployment rate to range from 7.7% to 8.9%.

In both 1983 and 1991 it was 11%.

- Interest rates on mortgages have fallen,

- Gasoline prices have fallen dramatically,

- the Federal Budget is pumping billions of dollars into stimulus initiatives, including millions into the local economy.

We’ve had recessions before and most good companies emerge stronger, so think positive!

The following is the text that will appear in the first series of adsTough times are when progressive companies grow….

The current economy represents a major challenge for many as businesses and employees suffer through significant change. Through it all we have many reasons to remain positive and confident. A year from now this will still be a strong community with a strong and diverse economic base, and hopefully we’ll be looking back on this recession.

POSiTivEmatters


The Chamber of Commerce, with generous support from the local media, is launching the THINK Positive campaign, designed to profile a number of significant investments in the community by local businesses, to highlight some local success stories, and to provide some perspective to the general public. In short, with everyone to do the exact opposite of what they are currently doing… in other words THINK Positive! The campaign will launch with a profile of three specific projects, the Lansdowne Place expansion, the new Peterborough Volkswagen dealership on Chemong Road, and the expansion of Flying Colours at the Peterborough Airport. There are other companies and projects that we hope to add in the coming weeks, and we also hope to hear about more. To that end we will also offer a way for you to participate.

The campaign will consist of the following elements:1. Three Public Service

Announcements (PSA’s) profiling the three companies mentioned above.

2. Radio PSA’s, some specific as above, some more generic in nature, but all carrying the THINK Positive message.

3. We will also be making available specific marketing material such as the THINK Positive logo, a banner graphic designed to fit on the bottom of a print ad, or some text that can be added to a radio or television ad, so that if you want to add the image to your existing ad you can (See Brian Stephenson’s article on the next page about marketing in a recession). The media may also want to create a specific ad-campaign built around the theme and we have encouraged them to do so.

4. We will do our part using our own emails and publications, and we are wide open to other ideas about how to spread the word that Peterborough is well positioned to weather the economic storm.

If you would like to utilize the logo and marketing materials in your own ad campaign, or you want to share an story idea, please contact:

Stuart Harrison General Manager Peterborough Chamber of Commerce

705-748-9771 ext 202 or email [email protected]

Goals:

1. increase productivity

2. reduce absenteeism

3. reduce disability rates

4. improve employee morale

5. reduce workplace stress

6. get recognized as a good employer

7. be a community leader

Action:

register for the:

Shifting Gears

Workplace Transportation Challenge

This May, join us for the


For one month,support your employees towalk, bike, bus or carpool

to work.

Have fun. Win Prizes.Get recognized.

SHIFTING GEARS

Will we catch you Shift ing Gears?peterboroughmoves.com

(705) 745 3238 ext .221

City of PeterboroughPeterborough Green-UpPeterborough County-City Health UnitWild Rock Outfitters

Goals:

1. increase productivity

2. reduce absenteeism

3. reduce disability rates

4. improve employee morale

5. reduce workplace stress

6. get recognized as a good employer

7. be a community leader

Action:

register for the:

Shifting Gears


This May, join us for the


For one month,support your employees towalk, bike, bus or carpool

to work.

Have fun. Win Prizes.Get recognized.

SHIFTING GEARS

Will we catch you Shift ing Gears?peterboroughmoves.com

(705) 745 3238 ext .221

City of PeterboroughPeterborough Green-UpPeterborough County-City Health UnitWild Rock Outfitters


Helping your business get to the next level.

Call 705-745-5434Visit us at 351 Charlotte St. in Ptbo

or on the web www.cdc.on.ca

www.cdc.on.ca

“we GOT ONE!”Sara & Bruce

Canadian Distribution ChannelPeterborough

PROVIDING BUSINESS LOANS FOR NEW AND EXPANDING BUSINESSES.

Competitive rates, flexible terms, start-up information, business planning

and business counselling!

brian stephenson, creative director, treehouse studioby

eMany businesses will decide to cut their

advertising, marketing and promotional budgets to reduce their spending and preserve their cash flow. They will wait out the upcoming months, and year, to see what the economy will do. Will it fix itself? Will the bailouts work? When will it happen? When will it be over?

So, should you keep waiting or take action for your own business? Here’s the answer… “Take action.”

Smart businesses that maintain or increase their advertising and

marketing spending, average significantly higher sales growth during a recession, and for three years following, than those businesses that reduced or cut their spending, according to McGraw-Hill Research.

The reality is: people need to eat; will need gas for their cars, children will need supplies for school; homes still need household supplies; business still need equipment and services. Non-profit organizations work harder to compete for funds. Those who decide to sit back and wait it out, lose out on tremendous growth opportunities.

Companies that advertise show the consumer and other businesses

that they are stable enough to withstand the storm, and continue to aggressively draw clients to “their” business, while others lose their market share.

Now is the time to take a stand and position yourself in the current economy. Remember what it took to start your business, make a name in your community and create brand recognition? By withdrawing yourself from the public you may temporarily keep a few dollars in the bank. However, trying to reinvent your company all over

again, following a recession, will cost you far more than you might expect.

This is a crucial time for your business and there has never been a better time to invest in “effective” advertising, marketing and creative design.

So, what can you do?

Focus on your core values: Reinforce your brand and remind customers why you are different and better.

Market to your target audience: Define and communicate to your optimal clients. Target and market your product or service specifically to them.

Stay consistent with the use of effective advertising: The long-term

benefits will be worth it. If your brand is stale, refresh it. If it’s all over the board, fix it. Over time the rewards will pay off.

Keep or increase your advertising budget: Continue to promote your products and services, keep your customers happy and, in the end, you’ll be more stable.

conomists across the country say that we are headed into a “recession”. Times will be tough for all businesses, large or small, and we will all struggle. We will be faced with tight budgets and tough decisions. It’s not the first time, and it won’t be the last.

This is a crucial time for your business, and

there has never been a better time to invest in “effective” advertising

ADvERTiSinGmattersDoes it pay to advertise during hard times? Yes!


ecoflyerecoflyer

GOLFIt’s that time again, to start thinking... GOLF!Our annual Golf Tournament will be held June 10th at the Kawartha Golf & Country Club. To take advantage of the great sponsorship opportunities or to participate, please contact the Chamber.

$150 +GST

Per Person

Contact Cathy Martin 748-9771 x214

[email protected]

The

will provide

you with an opportunity

to send your flyer-style

message three ways

for one low price of

$225Call Anne and

book today!

Contact Anne Arnold, CSP

to find our more, and reserve

your spot for the next issue.

(705) 748-9771 x 200

For some businesses, a downturn is an opportunity

to gain market share.

Thus, we are introducing a new feature in our monthly

voice of Business Magazine and on-line.

The Magazine is distributed not only to our over 1000 members, but members

of the Women’s Business network, Sales and Ad,

the Homebuilders Association and Construction Exchange

and the Kawartha Manufacturers Association.

This new feature will start in February.

ecoflyerecoflyerGet More,for Less!

1 As a .pdf file on our “ecoFlyer” page on our website.

2 As a text-based message and hyperlink in one of our bi-monthly email blasts.3 As a 1/6 page ad on

the “ecoFlyer” page in our Magazine.

Plus...You no longer have to

print a flyer!


chamberGALA

o “Congratulations to all involved

it was a great evening!”

“You really transformed this room to capture the Caribbean theme – it looks fabulous!”

“It was an amazing evening!”

“……you put on an excellent Gala on Saturday night. My wife and I had a blast and will try and attend from now on……….”

Kim MacDonald, and her crew at That Special Touch Wedding & Event Decor, did an outstanding job of transforming the Evinrude into a veritable Caribbean Wonderland. From the moment guests arrived at the Evinrude to embark on their Caribbean adventure, they were greeted aboard by the Captain and the Cruise Director (Wayne Lockyer and Sherri Kemp of That Special Touch, who were dressed in costume); to the hallway resembling a ship’s deck; to the colourful island colours and lit tropical centrepieces on each of the tables; to the Tiki Hut displays around the room, including the Bar area, the stage, and the backdrop for the photos; the effect was perfect and tied in beautifully with our Caribbean theme. The décor was sponsored by The Peterborough Examiner.

Just before entering the festively decorated room, guests were served Rum Punch and could help themselves to a treat from the Appetizer Tree, compliments of Chef Christopher’s Catering. For those of you not in attendance, here is how the Appetizer Tree works - it consists of a metal frame populated with Tasting Spoons filled with feta

cheese, dried apricot, a slice of apple and just a hint of mint; guests removed a spoon from the frame, consumed the goodies, placed the soiled spoon in a dish then, before you could blink, one of the St. Peter’s Students assisting Chef Christopher would replenish the tree with a freshly filled spoon. What a treat!

During the Cocktail Hour, guests were entertained with live music by Steel Drum Hu, sponsored by Betty Johnson of Century 21 United Realty, while mingling and having their complimentary picture taken by Miranda Studios, sponsored by Morrison & Hollingsworth and Vincent Press. Chef Christopher’s Catering provided a sumptuous meal, complete with a superb dessert – Stacked Pina Colada Cake. Our dinner appetizers of Caribbean Shrimp Kabobs and Marinated Pulled Pork, were sponsored by Shimano; and the wonderful wine served with dinner, was sponsored by McWilliams Moving & Storage.

Dinner was capped off with draws for many wonderful prizes, and the excitement built to a crescendo with the Grand Prize Draw of a Caribbean Cruise for 2, sponsored by TV Cogeco. Congratulations to the Grand Prize winner - Kathy Doornenbal, of Driving Miss Daisy!

The dinner and draws were followed by an evening of dancing to lively entertainment from Terry Guiel and Jericho’s Wall, who rocked the night away for all! To finish off a perfect Valentine’s evening, when they gathered their coats, each of the ladies received a beautiful long-stemmed rose, compliments of Adirondack Technologies.

Such accomplishments cannot be achieved without the support and assistance of many and, for this we offer much gratitude to the efforts of our 2009 Gala Committee, chaired by Sharon Legon, of The Terra Group.

We are grateful to our sponsors, our wonderful volunteers, and to everyone who attended, for all of your support. Due to the dedication, teamwork and commitment from all of you, we were successful in ensuring everyone enjoyed ‘A Caribbean Romance’ and eagerly anticipate our 121st Chamber Gala!

n Saturday, February 14th, The Chamber’s 120th Gala, sponsored by McCloskey International, was held in celebration of our 2009 Board Chair Mary LaRocque. The Gala Committee’s goal had been to create “A Caribbean Romance” atmosphere and they certainly outdid themselves! Here are some of the comments of those in attendance:

A Caribbean Romancecynthia hamuby


Decor: Peterborough ExaminerAppetizers: ShimanoWine: McWilliams Moving & Self Storage Ltd.Cocktail Band: Betty Johnson - Century21

United Realty Inc.Guest Photos by Miranda Studios:

Morrison & Hollingsworth The Vincent Press

Early Bird Limo: Ambassador LimousineCoat Check: The Terra GroupFlowers: Adirondack TechnologiesAdditional Evening Sponsors:

Cabinetree Diversified Communications

Door Prize Sponsors: AMJ Liftlock Self-Storage Arbonne International Bliss Esthetic Excellence Inc. Coach Canada Crime & Trauma Scene Cleaners The Market Hall Nationwide Barter OLG Slots at Kawartha Downs Peterborough Golf & Country Club Shish-Kabob Hut That Special Touch Wedding & Event Decor Tonali Holistic Studio The Terra Group Pro-Tech Pool & Spa Services

Thank you again to all of our sponsors!Event Sponsor: McCloskey International Ltd. Grand Prize Sponsor: TV Cogeco

Additional thanks to Vincent Press, Printing AMJ Self-Storage & Chemong Home Hardware


Quality Professional Service

1840 Lansdowne St. W., #14

Peterborough, Ontario K9K 2M9

Phone: (705) 749-EXIT (3948)

Website: www.exitrealtyliftlock.com

Upcoming Events...

breakfastclub tuesday april 14th, 2009location: Carousel Restaurant, 116 Lansdowne Street Easttime: 7:30 amcost: Pay for your breakfastplease note: You do not need to register for this event.

clublaurus thursday march 26th, 2009location: Mexicali Rosa’s, 320 Water Streetguest speaker: Jeffrey Lingard, CA, Morrison & Hollingsworthtime: 5:00 pm – 7:00 pmcost: $5 at the door

annualgeneralmeeting tuesday march 24th, 2009location: Peterborough Curling Club, 2195 Lansdowne Street Westtime: 7:30 am – 9:30 amcost: $20 Members, $30 non-Membersplease note: This event must be pre-paid.Sponsored by OLG

Don’t miss this great opportunity to hear from, and ask questions of, all four levels of Government. The Mayor, the County Warden, and the Provincial and Federal Governments will all be represented, to you an update on their activities, and be available to answer your questions.

businessafterhours tuesday april 7th, 2009location: Discovery Dream Homes, 4 McCloskey Rdtime: 4:00 - 6:00 pmcost: Free, Compliments of OLG Slots at Kawartha Downsplease note: Pre-registration is required for this event.

www.darlinginsurance.net

(705) 742-4245 • 1-800-387-1627

Proud of Our Past, Positive About Our Future

PeterboroughOmemee • Bobcaygeon

to check for availablity and secure your spot

contact: Anne Arnold 705.748.9771 x200

your

adhe

re

registrationinformationUnless otherwise specified, registration is required for all Chamber events. To register, please call 748-9771 Ext. 0 or email [email protected].

Looking Ahead – April/May ’09

breakfastclub tuesday may 12th, 2009location: Carousel Restaurant, 116 Lansdowne Street Easttime: 7:30 amcost: Pay for your breakfastplease note: You do not need to register for this event.

clublaurus thursday april 23rd, 2009location: Mexicali Rosa’s, 320 Water Streettime: 5:00 pm – 7:00 pmcost: $5 at the door

businessafterhours tuesday may 5th, 2009location: Phoenix Alternative Learning Centre, 1097 Water Streettime: 4:00 - 6:00 pmcost: Free, Compliments of OLG Slots at Kawartha Downsplease note: Pre-registration is required for this event.


w w w . k a w a r t h a c u . c o m

• Competitive rates on commercial loans and mortgages• Flexible payment options • Local credit approvals

Growing your business. . . together!

38thannualgolftournament tuesday june 10th, 2009location: Kawartha Golf & Country Clubtime: Lunch from 11am – 12:45pm 1 p.m. Shotgun Startcost: $150.00 + GST per personSponsored by Cabinetree and Higgins Hardwood Flooring note: Many sponsorship opportunities available. For more information contact Cathy at 748-9771 ext. 214 or email at [email protected]


Your one-stop, full-service solution for trade show and display products.

• Bannerstands

• Pop-up exhibits

• Table top displays

• Literature stands

• Promotional products

• Experienced in-housedesign services

• Lifetime Warranty*Some conditions apply

Call today!

705.749.3179www.promotionmarketing.ca

Stand out from the competition.

Canadian-Made Quality at Affordable Prices.

SURvivALmattersgord evans, CEO of the workforce development boardby

tWhat You NeedIt is important to consider all legal responsibilities,

ethical responsibilities, and the community’s expectations. You need to be prepared to answer questions like why the layoffs are occurring and when they will take effect. You should know the amount of money that your company is able to contribute to adjustment programs. In order to ease employees into the layoff period, prepare a written statement indicating the reason why the decision was made and how it affects everybody. As long as you plan well for the layoff, you can avoid creating a negative image for your business. Employees will be looking to you to be their guide for survival, so remember to be respectful, supportive, straightforward and clear.

What Your Employees NeedThere are certain ways that you can

make the process of a layoff easier on employees. Contact Employment Ontario’s Adjustment Advisory Program, a service that offers options for providing employees with technical and financial assistance. If you wish to speak with the advisor in your area, you can call the Hotline at 1-800-387-5656. Another way to help employees is to set up an Action Centre. An Action Centre is a mini-employment centre that provides a base for employees to gather for workshops, conduct job searches, meet with counsellors, develop individual action plans, and access information on a wide range of training and work-related matters. By providing employees with opportunities to survive a layoff, you enable your reputation as an employer to survive as well.

Breaking the News to the CommunityExplain to the community why the layoff is

happening, but only after your employees have been fully informed. Be honest and open. This is an opportunity to reassert your business’ commitment to the community and protect your reputation as a good employer.

For the full survival guide as well as a checklist to help employees, visit the ‘Publications’ section of www.solutionsatwork.info

he difficult task of laying-off employees not only affects your business; it affects the reputation of your business, employees’ morale and the community at large. Employers must be organized and have a well thought out plan in order to survive a layoff and to ensure a positive outcome for all involved.

Layoffs - A Guide for Employers


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YourChamberOntario Chamber of Commerce2009 Business Climate SurveyA recent analysis of the 2009 Ontario Business Climate Survey reveals that respondents are -- not surprisingly -- concerned about the Ontario economy, but believe the provincial government should provide taxation and regulatory relief in order to help businesses weather the storm.

While over 80% expect the performance of the Ontario economy to be somewhat or much weaker in 2009 than in 2008, a majority of respondents are far more optimistic about the future of their own companies, with 55% believing that they will perform the same or better this year.

A copy of the complete analysis of the survey can be found on the Ontario Chamber of Commerce website at www.occ.on.ca.

A Huge Win for Business After much lobbying by the chamber network in Ontario, starting in January 2009, businesses will only be required to file ONE corporate tax return, under ONE set of rules and deal with ONE auditor. The Ontario Chamber of Commerce has been a strong advocate for the streamlining of tax services and reducing red tape. Corporate tax harmonization will save Ontario business up to $200 million annually and immediately reduce the paperwork burden. More information regarding this matter is available on the Ontario Chamber of Commerce website at www.occ.on.ca.

new Tax Measure for a Segment of Ontario’s Business Population A highly specified segment of Ontario’s business population will soon be able

to take advantage of a new tax measure. This tax incentive would refund the amount of Ontario Corporate Income Tax and Corporate Minimum Tax paid in the taxation year, for up to the corporation’s first 10 taxation years.

To qualify for this new tax measure the company must be

incorporated in Canada after March 24, 2008 and before March 25, 2012. This new company must generate all, or most of its revenue from commercializing intellectual property from a government-identified “priority growth area.” These are: advanced health, bio-economy (which includes clean energy technologies), telecommunications, computer or digital media technologies and other new technologies that may be prescribed. Furthermore, eligible intellectual property must be developed by an employee or a student of a qualifying Canadian research institution in order to qualify for the tax refund.

In a recent submission, the OCC urged the province to expand the qualification criteria to include more “start-up” companies and broaden the industry qualification criteria to consider other innovative sectors such as mining, forestry and agriculture. This would indeed benefit Ontario’s economy, especially with the foreseeable challenges impacting our business climate.

For further information please contact Sonia Mistry, Policy Analyst, at [email protected] or 416-428-5222 ext. 240.

For additional information on Ontario Chamber of Commerce activities, please refer to their website at ww.occ.on.ca.

chantal

adult contemporary musician, singer-songwriter, pianist and guitarist

Wednesday, April 1st, 2009 at 8pmTickets $54 • 742-SHOW (7469) • www.showplace.org


MEMBERmattersheadlines4th Line Theatre Announces the Summer Line up 4th Line Theatre in Millbrook has recently announced two world premieres in 2009. From June 30th to August 1st, “The Right Road to Pontypool”, written by Alex Poch-Goldin and directed by Kim Blackwell and, from August 10th to August 29th, “Welcome Death”, written and directed by Robert Winslow. For more information, please visit www.4thlinetheatre.on.ca or call 705-932-4448.Crawford Building Consultants Managing Kawartha Dairy’s expansion Plans More ice cream for all! Crawford Building Consultants, of Lakefield, is pleased to be working with Kawartha Dairy of Bobcaygeon on their exciting new future expansion plans. Crawford has saved the dairy over $800,000 by working closely with them as they develop their plans to expand ice cream production. Services provided so far include concept site plans, process layout, and consulting and engineering services with respect to production equipment. For more information Crawford Building Consultants can be reached at 705-652-1100 or check out their website at www.crawfordbuilding.comKawartha Dairy opening Their Seventh Store Kawartha Dairy will be opening their seventh corporate store in Peterborough in March 2009. The Bobcaygeon-based, family-owned operation will be opening the store on High Street, across from Lansdowne Place Mall. The store will feature a milk drive-thru, which will provide customers with added convenience, and they will carry a full line of dairy products, including their famous rich and premium ice cream, made with fresh milk and real cream from local area farms. To learn more about Kawartha Dairy, please visit their website at: www.kawarthadairy.com

Driving Miss Daisy Now in Peterborough Driving Miss Daisy recently announced its first Franchisee in Ontario, and she is Kathy Doornenbal of Peterborough. The company provides senior services including reliable and safe accompaniment for medical and dental appointments, grocery or personal shopping, home support, adult day programs, airport service, even vacation and social event accompaniment! As well as serving as a liaison between medical staff and family, and providing an avenue of respite care for spouses, adult children and caregivers. There are 31 Franchises operating out west. Watch for the blue PT Cruiser “Daisymobile” To reach Kathy Doornenbal call 705-868-0074, email [email protected] or check out their website at www.drivingmissdaisy.netSarge’s Army Surplus Now open in Peterborough Sarge’s Army Surplus store just opened at 291 George Street, across from Showplace. It is an Army Surplus Store with new and used Military clothing, boots, camping gear, blankets, jackets, parkas, p-coats, British wooly pully’s, t-shirts, packs, and lots more from all over the world. Owner Ian Kyle just retired from the Army, where he was based in Petawawa. Sarge’s Army Surplus is open from 10:00 – 5:00pm, Tuesday through Saturday. Call 705-741-0811.Navis Pack and Ship offers Custom Packing and Shipping Navis Pack and Ship is a new franchise in Peterborough, specializing in custom packing and shipping for difficult-to-ship items. If you have fragile, large, awkward, or valuable items Navis can help. Owner Dave Corneil says they can pack and ship antique furniture, fine art, trade show items, commercial and industrial machinery, and business and medical equipment, both domestically and internationally. As well, they do small moves. They

are located at 2085 Whittington Drive, Building 7a, unit B in the Fleming Industrial Park next to Sysco Foods. For more information call 705-741-5900, or visit them online at www.gonavis.comMy Left Breast Has Moved! Bridget began My Left Breast after going through Breast Cancer herself. She wanted to provide women with an elegant and safe place to come for mastectomy and cancer care products. Bridget also provides people with well-researched information and products to help everyone reduce their everyday toxic chemical exposures. Which is why she carries alternatives to plastics, paraben free shampoos, creams, water-based nail polish, and even sugar based hair sprays. You can visit Bridget at her new location at the new Peterborough Clinic, 26 Hospital Drive, Peterborough, or visit www.myleftbreast.ca or call 705-876-3333.Joint PST – GST/HST Seminars Being offered Together the Ontario Ministry of Revenue and Canada Revenue Agency continue to deliver free, fully integrated provincial sales tax (PST) and goods and services tax/harmonized sales tax (GST/HST) seminars across the province. The seminars are geared towards small to medium-size businesses, are available in both official languages, and continue to educate and inform taxpayers about how these taxes work. These seminars are an opportunity to inform and educate taxpayers about federal and provincial tax laws, which will encourage voluntary compliance and assist in combating the underground economy. If you have any questions regarding these seminars, or would like a registration form, please contact Tammy Cruikshanks at 905-433-6129.

Does your business have some new and exciting news to share? If so, please submit your information (approximately 75 words) to [email protected] by the 1st of the preceeding month for inclusion in the next month’s issue (i.e. February’s newsletter, January 1st deadline). Please note that information will be printed at the General Manager’s discretion.


newmemberswelcome to our new members who joined the Chamber from January 12 - February 11, 2009

2039486 ontario Limited o/A Axess Self Storage Solutions Storage and Warehousing Richard Kwasniewicz (705) 761-6270 www.axessstorage.ca

dr. Jack Chiang dentistry Professional Co. Health Care Practitioners Jack Chiang (705) 745-6261

driving Miss daisy Senior Services Mobile Kathy Doornenbal (705) 868-0074 www.drivingmissdaisy.net

Pinchin environmental Ltd. Consultants - Environmental Mike Wilson (705) 748-6927 www.pinchin.com

Real time Merchant Services Financial Institutions & Banking Services Ed Tessier (705) 761-4883 www.realtimems.com

Simply Sushi Restaurants - Take Out Shawn Stephenson (705) 743-9000 www.simplysushi.ca

Spotlight home & Lifestyle inc. Custom Homes, Renovations Garnet Northey (705) 657-9777 www.spotlighthomeandlifestyle.com

total Physiotherapy & Sports injuries Centre Health Care Practitioners Kevin Hickey (705) 749-1313

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Please note: the Chamber & Licensing Offices will be closed on the following dates:n Friday, April 10th, 2009 – Good Fridayn Monday, May 18th, 2009 – Victoria Dayn Wednesday, July 1st, 2009 – Canada Dayn Monday, August 3th, 2009 – Civic Holidayn Monday, September 7th, 2009 – Labour Day n Monday, October 12th, 2009 – Thanksgivingn Thursday, December 24th, 2009 – Christmas Eve (Close at 2pm)n Friday, December 25th, 2009 – Christmas Dayn Monday, December 28th, 2009 – Boxing Dayn Thursday, December 31st, 2009 – New Year’s Eve (Close at 3pm)n Friday, January 1st, 2010 – New Year’s Day


CHAMBEReventsclublaurusMexicali Rosa’s by Brooke Turney (nexicom) , Committee Co-chair

What a way to begin a brand new year! The first Club Laurus meeting of 2009 took place on Thursday, January 22nd at Mexicali Rosa’s.

With a magical Mexican back drop, our group enjoyed a great deal of networking and welcomed local businessman, Michael Skinner, President and CEO of Operitel, as our first guest speaker of the year. Michael profiled his successful business and gave us his views on what it takes to be a business dynamo early on in one’s career.

Michael reinforced the benefits of doing business here in the Peterborough marketplace and also how his company works closely with the area’s college and university to ensure his staff are well educated, and, very often, local folks. A very enthusiastic question and answer period ensued following Michael’s

presentation and many great conversations were stimulated.

This is truly why Club Laurus was formed two years ago. Sharing stories of successes and downfalls amongst a group of business professionals very similar in age and experience is so invaluable. Club Laurus welcomes all Chamber members, and is geared to those under 40, to join us at Mexicali Rosa’s on Thursday, February 26th so you too can be part of this unique experience. Please feel free to bring a guest along with you to February’s meeting where we will be ‘Speed Networking.’ This activity is a great way to get to know fellow business professionals in our Community, introduce guests and really stretch our networking muscles. Hope you can join us!

If you have an employee or staff member you feel could benefit by joining us, please encourage them to check us out

too. Register by calling the Chamber Office at 748-9771 x0 or email [email protected]

Club Laurus Profile Winner

Congratulations to Klout Marketing

The Klout Marketing System is a proven way to boost sales without spending more, by first answering

the all important question:

“Why should customers do business with you instead of your competitors?” The answer to this is your competitive advantage or

Unique Value Proposition.

But having this is just the beginning. The system then captures Future

Buyers in addi-tion to NOW buyers. Putting your brand far ahead of the

competition.

In response to the economic crisis we are offering Chamber Members

a FREE copy of our newly published report: “Absolute Zero-Risk Guide

to Ultra-Profits in a Recession”

Simply send a blank email to [email protected]

and it’s yours. We hope it helps.

www.klout.ca

705-760-6037

NEW this month:

Check out the downloadable flyer on the Chamber website at peterboroughchamber.ca for a complete listing of all the great savings you and your employess can enjoy by simply being a member of the Chamber.

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Bennett’s home Furnishings Save the Taxes - No GST or PST on any furniture or mattress

purchase. Final clearance, special value or sale prices do not qualify. Offer not valid on extra charges such as delivery, administration fees, extended protection fees, disposal fees, etc.

www.bennetts.ca 705 749-9273

Valid at both Bennett stores.


businessafterhoursJan 6 by Bob Behan (The Protectors Group), BAH Committee Chair

Debbie and Morgan Smith, of Sign-A-Rama, hosted the February BAH. They provided an inside look at the exciting and interesting world of the sign business.

Their independently owned business is part of a collection of more than 850 sign stores globally, which gives them some economies of scale advantages. But, most importantly, gives them the ability to adopt and use the latest technology to produce quality signs for your business. The independently owned element allows them to personally focus on the client’s need and provide that extra service, unique to owner-operated businesses.

Over 110 Chamber members enjoyed the wonderful selection of food and beverages, while taking advantage of the informative tours of Sign-A-Rama’s new location at 774 Rye Street. Debbie, Morgan and their personnel provided

first class hospitality, which I expect didn’t surprise any of us given their track record of professionalism.

It is difficult to imagine a better environment for networking and it is terrific to see a significant number of new people attending. This can only benefit all of us in the Peterborough Business Community.

Sign-A-Rama is a full service sign store and invites you to consider them if you need any type of sign including Banners, Box Signs, Channel Letters, Custom Graphics, Vehicle Wraps, Vehicle Lettering, Custom Logos, Digital Graphics, Individual Letters, Exterior Lighting, Neon Signs or simply sign service.

Thank you Sign-A-Rama for your hospitality!

We look forward to seeing you at the March BAH being held at Canterbury Gardens Retirement Residence from 4 to 6pm on Tuesday, March 3rd.

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LOCAL NEWS • SPORTS • ENTERTAINMENT • CLASSIFIEDS • CROSSWORDS • TV LISTINGS

Our Breakfast Speaker for January was Brad Huggins of Morrison & Hollingsworth and Brad updated us on new updates on the tax radar.

A new Tax-free savings account (TFSA) - Allows Canadians to save up to $5,000.00/year and pay no tax on the interest, beginning January 1, 2009.

Individual Pension Plans (IPP) - An Individual Pension Plan is designed and structured for one individual member and is beneficial for owners/managers of a corporation who have a high annual income. Pension plans are deductible to the corporation.

Employment and Business Expenses, if you own a business or have an employee, you may deduct - Home Office Expenses, such as, if the home

is the principal place of business or where you principally perform your duties of employment or, if it is used exclusively for business or employment purposes and is used on a regular and continuous basis for meeting clients or customers of your business or employment. Automobile Expenses: If your employer provided you with a vehicle which is used for personal use, then the calculated taxable benefit of the personal use of the vehicle is added to your employment income. If you use your vehicle for business purposes, you are able to claim the business portion of the capital cost allowance on the cost of the vehicle and deduct the business portion of the operating costs of the vehicle. A log book should be kept showing the business and personal use

of the vehicle. The CRA will disallow vehicle expenses if no log book is kept.

As well, Brad discussed the Advantages and Disadvantages of Incorporating your business. A great deal of information was covered in a very short period of time.

Brad Huggins and Diane Clark are partners and have owned the company for 26 years and, if you have any accounting questions concerning any of these topics, they would be pleased to assist with any accounting information you may require.

Thanks Brad for a very informative talk!

breakfastclubJanuary by Betty Johnson (Century 21 United Realty), Breakfast Club Committee Co-chair


benefactsby Brian Bulger

What is Group insurance?Group insurance, simply explained, is a method of insuring a group of individuals who, in most instances are a group of employees, union or association members, for certain benefits under one master contract or policy.

Group insurance began as a method of insuring a group of employees for life insurance under one policy. I don’t know the exact date, but I believe it was close to 100 years ago group insurance was first marketed to large firms in North America. It was considered an innovation at the time, because the setting up of one policy to cover a group of people saved the additional work of issuing individual polices for each participant within the group. The theory was that a group policy would reduce the insurer’s expenses and in turn reduce the premium rates. The approach was very

appealing and it wasn’t long before numerous insurance companies began to offer and set up group life insurance contracts for employee groups.

Over time insurance companies received requests to provide coverage for other risks, such as income replacement, for employees who might become disabled and unable to work. Some of the first types of disability policies offered were actually “riders” on group life contracts. The “riders” would in some cases read as follows: “If an insured person becomes totally and permanently disabled prior to age 60, the face amount of the policy will be divided and paid out to the certificate holder in 60 equal monthly instalments.”

In present times, group insurance policies comprise an extensive range

of services, from the traditional life insurance benefit to short and long term disability, dental, drugs, medical health, paramedical services, dependent life, critical illness, employee assistance programs, vision care, business overhead expense and emergency medical travel expenses.

There are group automobile plans available now, and even health plans to cover Veterinarian bills for pets. Group insurance will continue to evolve as the needs of people change and insurance companies find new opportunities to generate revenue.

This article has been brought to you exclusively by your Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan Agent/Broker, Brian Bulger. For more information, Brian can be reached at 741-1400.

• Reach over 1500 members of the Chamber, plus members of Sales & Ad, Women’s Business Network, Kawartha Manufacturers Association, Home Builders Association, plus major industrial and non-industrial employers

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1434 Chemong Road, Unit 1 & 2P.O. Box 2379Peterborough ON K9J 7Y8Telephone: (705) 742-2204Fax: (705) 742-8312

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Documents

March 2009