September 2007 - Timmins Chamber of Commerce

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