1. business and industrial

MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS
BeSeen. BeHeard. Belong.
WHAT’S
INSIDE?
City’s Strategic Plan........ 1-2
There is a Better Way..... 3-4
Retiree Recruitment........... 5
2015 Ontario Budget.........6
Cap and Trade...................... 7
2015 AGM.......................... 8-9
BEA Awards Criteria.. 10-11
Web Design....................... 12
Marketing........................... 12
News Tickers................ 13-14
New Members............ 14-15
Shades of Ireland............. 16
Chamber Presents...
Shades of Ireland
A few seats remaining
Call Fettes Travel
519-371-3281
JUNE 2015
A Special Publication of The Sun Times
41391553
Chamber’s input on City’s
new strategic plan
Background
The City of Owen Sound held a meeting
on March 24th, 2015, at the Harry Lumley
Bayshore Community Centre. The meeting
was a part of the consultation process to seek
public input into the development of a new five
year Strategic Plan for the City of Owen Sound.
‘LURA Consulting,’ collaborative communitybased strategic planning specialists, was hired
by the city to research and prepare a strategic
plan for Council to review, approve, and
implement.
At the meeting, ‘LURA Consulting’
provided a brief outline of
the Strategic Plan which
focuses on our city’s four
community cornerstones:
Society and Cultural,
Environment, Economy
and Finance. Of particular
interest to the Owen Sound
& District Chamber of
Commerce is a description
of the city’s financial
sustainability.
In the
Strategic Plan, many key indicators of a healthy
financial city were not evident, suggesting that
steps be taken to correct our ‘financial house.’
Troubling indicators included: building permit
activity – low; net municipal level per capita –
high; residential taxes – high; fire and police
net costs – high; transit services net costs –
high, and property taxes as % of income – high.
The Chamber took the opportunity at this
meeting to make a submission on behalf of
its members. Steve Coffey, in one of his final
acts as Chair, Owen Sound & District Chamber
of Commerce, made a presentation outlining
the business community’s position on the
direction and focus for the new Strategic Plan
continued on page 2
The Chamber proposes
that the overall vision
for the City to be:
OWEN SOUND:
THE REGIONAL
CENTRE OF GREY
AND BRUCE!
(and to promote itself as such)
Chamber members discount available
10
AD{TS3965549}
2 www.oschamber.com
MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS
continued...
THERE IS A BETTER WAY
The North Grey Economic Development Corporation
Chamber’s input on City’s new strategic plan
Continued from page 1
Chamber Submission
Good evening Mayor Boddy, members of Council,
City staff .... My name is Steve Coffey, current Chair of
the Owen Sound & District Chamber of Commerce.
Thank you for hosting this public forum and providing
the business community an opportunity to speak.
As the voice of nearly 500 members of the local
business community, the “vision” of the Owen Sound
& District Chamber of Commerce is to be the focal
point for business in Owen Sound and District. We
also have the clear mission “to develop and support
a prosperous Owen Sound & District community
through advocacy and leadership that promotes a
healthy economic and social environment”.
We believe that our mission and the City’s Strategic
Plan Review have much in common; the strategic
direction of the Review is “to provide progressive
leadership for education, culture, recreation, health
social and economic opportunities that benefit the
city and the region”.
As reported to Council by the City Manager on
January 26, 2015, the strategic planning process will
ask: “Where are we now?”; “Where do we want to
go?” and “How do we get there?” The first question
is relatively easy to answer. The remaining questions
however, are much more challenging without a strong,
healthy local and regional economy in which to frame
the discussion and provide the financial resources
through taxation to assist in implementation. The
Chamber believes that this can only be assured
through a robust and targeted approach that not only
recognizes and explains “the uniqueness of the City
of Owen Sound,” but also identifies new emerging
economic sectors not currently prioritized by the City.
Although the Chamber may be stating the
obvious, the City cannot implement a strategic plan
successfully without a vibrant business community.
Thus, it is the Chambers position, that a new Strategic
Plan is incomplete without a corresponding, robust,
dynamic, impactful Economic Development Plan.
Whatever the outcome of the City’s new Strategic
Plan may be, Council will be faced with difficult and
challenging decisions. The Chamber respectfully asks
that when making these decisions, Council consider
at each stage “will it help or hurt local business?” If
it helps, then it contributes to a healthy business
community which increases tax revenue necessary to
implement the strategic plan. If it hurts, then business
and tax revenue suffer which impedes economic
development and the successful implementation of
the Strategic Plan.
With respect to the City’s strategic plan going
forward, the Chamber is advocating that it contains
a clear VISION WITH MEASURABLE GOALS AND AN
ACTION PLAN. It is the Chambers position that the
City’s current ‘vision’ is more of a slogan or tag line
rather than a vision. It does not provide a unique
direction, focus or goal for the city to achieve. Owen
Sound is in competition for economic growth with
other urban areas in the peninsula who offer many
similar advantages. The City needs to be bold and
assert itself by building on existing strengths and
creating new competitive advantages.
OWEN SOUND: THE REGIONAL CENTRE OF GREY
AND BRUCE (and someday legitimately named: “The
Regional Municipality of Owen Sound”) is in a strong
position to promote itself provincially, federally and
internationally, for example, in the following sectors:
1. Marine:
The Great Lakes International Marine Training
& Research Centre at the Owen Sound campus of
Georgian College is attracting attention around the
world. The more it is promoted, and investments are
made in it, the more likely the city will attract spinoff
Marine related industries.
2. Retirement Lifestyle:
Owen Sound and immediate area have the
geographical location/assets and cultural strengths
to appeal to the ever-growing demographic of
retirees and soon-to-be retirees. This is recognized
by countless surveys, reports and media publications.
Let’s take advantage of this kind of exposure! Existing
business and services will need to expand and new
ones created in order to support this booming
industry.
3. Agriculture/Food:
This sector has a significant potential to grow
in our region. There is a growing demand for food
production, alternative food options, organics, and
retail and packaging in – just to name a few. There
is opportunity to have a stronger alliance with postsecondary institutions like Guelph University with the
goal of establishing a satellite campus or research
centre. This would be of enormous benefit to the
region with more students staying closer to home.
The Chamber thanks you for this opportunity and
we look forward to supporting the City in championing
a new, bold strategy.
www.oschamber.com 3
MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS
2015
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Executive
Chair:
Debbie McKague • The Professional Centre
Vice Chair:
Syd Austin • Staples
Past Chair:
Steve Coffey • IPC Investment Corporation
Treasurer:
Christie Leeder • BDO Canada LLP
Directors
Mary Smith
• Women’s House, Serving Bruce & Grey
Steven Hencze
• Mortgage Financial Corporation
Tyler Beckett • Sun Life Financial Advisor
Agnes Martin • Agnes’ Bookkeeping Service
Marg Benedict • Benedict Electrical
Peter Reesor • Peter Reesor & Associates
Lynda McFaul • KC Distributing
Chamber Staff:
Bert Loopstra, President and CEO
Wendy Adams, Administrative Assistant
Chamber Photographer:
John Prettie • Prettie Portraits
Media Sponsors:
92.3 The Dock
Bayshore
Broadcasting
Economic development is
challenging for any municipality,
city or town. Owen Sound is no
exception. With limited resources
and split responsibilities, the City
has a Department of Economic
Development & Tourism consisting
of just one Manager, part-time
administrative support and the
local Business Enterprise Centre
with its focus on starting, growing
or expanding small business.
Although Grey County’s Department
of Economic Development works
collaboratively with the city, it
too has similar challenges. Their
department consists of two
Economic Development Officers
and one Economic Development
and Tourism Manager. They are
responsible for a territory covering
4,513.21 km2 with a population of
nearly 100,000 people.
As the economic hub of Grey
Bruce, Owen Sound and the
surrounding area of Georgian Bluffs,
Chatsworth and Meaford need a
united economic development
initiative to retain, expand and
attract business and industry.
There are many reasons why
some communities succeed
better than others with economic
development. Major reasons include:
location, skilled and educated
labour, lifestyle, affordable housing,
hi-speed internet, and access to
transportation corridors. What most
have in common is a well funded,
professionally managed
Economic Development
Corporation.
The
Corporation provides
focussed strategic and
economic development
planning, targeting resources to
attract specific types of business and
industry. The Chamber supports
the creation of the North Grey
Economic Development Corporation
to create a combined initiative with
Owen Sound, Meaford, Chatsworth
and Georgian Bluffs for the future
economic growth and prosperity of
these communities.
WHAT IS IT?
The North Grey Economic
Development
Corporation
initiative is based on the simple
principle of strength in numbers.
Individually our communities lack
sufficient population, business and
employment opportunities to sustain
a vibrant and diverse economy. We
have neither the financial resources
nor acumen to attract
new business and
skilled labour when
competing against
similar communities
who have combined their efforts
as
Economic
Development
Corporations. Unable to compete,
our local economies may stall and
without economic intervention face
decline and eventual collapse.
The North Grey Economic
Development Corporation would
combine resources to create a
collective strategic approach to
economic planning and marketing
to attract new business, industry and
labour.
WHY NORTH GREY?
There are economic development
entities in Grey Bruce at the city,
town, municipal and county level.
Although there are some limited
efforts to coordinate economic
development, these entities in
essence compete with each other.
Their goal is to attract economic
development to their own
community rather than the North
Grey area where all can benefit from
a strong regionally based economy.
There are limited opportunities
for the communities in North
Grey to compete individually
against well funded and organized
Regional Economic Development
Corporations in southern Ontario
vying for the same opportunities.
Individually we lack the strength,
focus, planning and implementation
that an Economic Development
Corporation can provide.
WHAT IS ITS ROLE?
The North Grey Economic
Development Corporation would be
the primary economic development
organization for the area. Its purpose
would be to improve the economic
well-being of the region through
the growth and expansion of local
businesses and by attracting new
businesses.
Economic development services
for North Grey would include:
u Attracting new business and
direct investment
u Retaining existing business and
assisting with local expansions
u Advocating for improving the
business environment
4 www.oschamber.com
MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS
uMarketing and promotion
for business opportunities in
overseas markets
Public / Private Partnership -Public and private sectors within
a region work together utilizing
a volunteer Board of Directors
governing the not-for profit
corporation using a Policy Board
Model (Windsor-Essex Economic
Development Corporation).
u Establishing business support
partnerships throughout the
community
u Assisting in the development of
strategic plans such as industrial
lands strategy
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
CORPORATION MODEL
There are three primary models
utilizing different components and
resources to address the specific
needs of the region.
MODELS
Public Sector -- Various
economic development entities
within the designated region
consolidate all resources
Private Agency -- A third
party agency hired by the
region utilizing a private sector
corporate infrastructure. The
agency would consist of
experienced staff with proven
track records in business and
economic development in the
public and private sectors. It
would be run as a business with
success achieved through indepth research, realistic and
rationalized business planning
and targeted marketing, and
www.troylfs.com
implementation monitoring. The
agency would be transparent
with detailed, quarterly and
annual reports, and funded on
a fee-for-service basis paid for
by the region. The fee would
be based on achieving stated
measurable goals and objectives.
The region would only assume
an ex-official role with the
agency (i.e. London Economic
Development Corporation).
NEXT STEP
Economic development was
a major campaign theme during
the recent municipal elections.
Candidates and incumbents
all stressed its importance and
acknowledged the need for
greater effort and success. Owen
Sound, Meaford, Georgian Bluffs
and Chatsworth are now faced
with the decision to maintain the
status quo, make marginal changes
or create a new approach like the
North Grey Economic Development
Corporation.
The challenges of creating
such a corporation are significant.
It will require a willingness to set
aside geographic and political
boundaries as well as organizational
and departmental fiefdoms. Each
model described above requires a
different role for the communities.
Each community would establish its
unique role in achieving economic
development success – as a leader,
active participant or resource.
The Owen Sound District
Chamber of Commerce would
welcome the opportunity to lead or
participate in a task force comprised
of local business, city, municipal
and county representatives
to explore the formation of a
corporation. Once the corporation
is established, the Chamber would
not sit as a member on its Board
of Directors. This is to avoid any
conflict of interest if lobbying the
corporation on behalf of members
of the Chamber and when decisions
are made by the corporation Board
that may directly impact on our
members.
MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS
Make It Your Business...
LOC AL LIFE SAFET Y
SALES SUPPORT
AND
SHOULD BUSINESS OWNERS
CONTRIBUTE
ANlifeRRSP?
Based
in Owen Sound, weTO
provide
safety
is a publication of The Owen Sound & District Chamber of
Commerce in conjunction with The Sun Times.
Advertising Sales: The Sun Times Publication
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expertise to facilities all over Canada. Call us at
Find out why business
should
RRSPs and
519-371-4747
to findowners
out how
werethink
can help.
Retiree Recruitment Makes Sense
and Cents for Owen Sound and Grey County
As reported more fully elsewhere
in this issue of Make It Your Business,
recently the Owen Sound and District
Chamber of Commerce made a
submission to the City of Owen Sound
for consideration with respect to the
development of a new five year Strategic
Plan for the City. In that submission, the
Chamber attached very high priority to
promoting the City and Region as an
attractive and welcoming host for baby
boomers and other retirees.
As proud residents of the Scenic
City and Grey County we are well
aware of the multiple benefits of living
here: a spectacular and near pristine
environment; thriving four-seasons
sports and recreation activities; a rich
history shared with our First Nations
neighbours; a strong community of
talented artists and performers who
offer entertainment, exhibitions and
performances that are the envy of much
larger urban centers; an entrepreneurial,
vibrant business community; a capable,
forward looking municipal government;
solid educational infrastructure; and
outstanding health care. The list goes on.
But why should we share our secrets
and resources with a bunch of old fogies?
The quick answer to that question is that
we should welcome them with open
arms so they can share their many assets
and attributes with us. Let’s touch on just
a few of many.
previously
have been the
preserve of
much younger
people. They go
to restaurants
regularly, are
active physically,
search out lifelong learning
opportunities,
enjoy cultural
experiences, buy good quality goods
and services and give back to their
communities. In sum, retirees have
experience, wisdom, skills and energy
that can enhance the lives of everyone,
old or young, and, as will be shown
later in the article, improve long-term
economic growth.
THERE ARE LOTS OF THEM
In 2014, more than six million
Canadians were 65 or over. This group
makes up 15.6 per cent of Canada’s
population. By 2030, the number of
Canadian seniors will swell to more than
9.5 million, accounting for 23 per cent
of the population (Statistics Canada).
In Ontario, the number of seniors aged
65 and over is projected to more than
double from almost 2.1 million, or
15.2 per cent of population, in 2013 to
over 4.5 million, or 25.5 per cent, by 2041. NOT OLD FOGIES
A FORMIDABLE
ECONOMIC FORCE
Baby boomers (born between 1946
and 1964) are redefining ‘old age’ and
retirement. Liberated by wealth, health
and technology, they are forcing a shift
in traditional attitudes towards the older
generations as they live life on their own
terms. They are pushing against the
boundaries set by their own parents and
society in general as they travel, work,
dress and socialise in ways that would
Baby boomers are probably the
richest and healthiest generation in
human history. Consider that a recent
British study (Sarah O’Grady, Sunday
Express, August 4, 2014) showed that
boomers control more than 75% of the
UK’s wealth. And according to Investor
Economics Inc., over 70% of all the wealth
in Canada resides with baby boomers.
Furthermore, it has been estimated that
Steven J. Coffey, CFP®
Owen Sound & District Chamber of Commerce
Committed to Quality Service
704 6th Street East, Owen Sound • 519-376-6261 • Fax: 519-376-5647
[email protected] • www.oschamber.com
Carpet cleaning,
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RETIREE RECRUITMENT
IS A PROVEN ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY
The above noted Georgia study,
Golden Rules, addressed the key
question: Is retiree recruitment a good
strategy for economic development
in rural Georgia? The answer was a
resounding yes. Consider some positive
findings that are relevant to Owen Sound
and District:
uThe Time is Right: Demographic and
economic trends are coming together
to create an excellent opportunity for
retiree-based economic development.
The retirement of the baby boomers
is a strong demographic trend that is
virtually locked in until approximately
2028.
uJob Creation: It takes only 1.8 inmigrating retirees to generate one
job, so 100 in-retirees generate 55
jobs. That would be the equivalent
of recruiting a good size business to
Owen Sound.
Call Ken King
519-375-5321
The contents of this newspaper are protected by copyright and may be used only for your personal non-commercial purposes. All other rights
are reserved and commercial use is prohibited. To make use of any of this material you must first obtain the permission of the owner of the
copyright. For further information, please contact Bert Loopstra, The Owen Sound and District Chamber of Commerce.
RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL
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Bill McFarlane
Broker
519-377-7627
Sutton - Sound
Realty Inc., Brokerage
Locally Owned and Independently Operated
519-370-2100
Ernie Coates
Broker of Record
519-375-1901
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explore other opportunities.
boomers are set
to inherit over
$1 trillion from
their parents
over the next
20 years, the
biggest transfer of
wealth in Canadian
history. In the USA,
a 2011 Georgia
study
(Golden
Rules, Selig Centre
for Economic Growth) found that the
average net worth of retiree households
was over $930 thousand in 2011 or about
$500 thousand per capita. Clearly, many
retiring boomers have money. And they
are healthy and active enough to spend
and invest it.
u Economic Diversity: Retiree-based
economic development enhances
service industries such as health
care, home building, retailing and
household services rather than
manufacturing, agriculture, or
government. Recruiting retirees
therefore can help rural areas like Grey
County to diversify our economy.
uReduce Economic Risks: Retiree
recruitment can make the rural areas
or small towns less vulnerable to the
ups and downs of commodity markets,
less dependent on the actions of a few
large employers, and less exposed to
global competition.
u Promote Steady Incomes: Relative to
wage and salary income many retirees
have steady incomes that often are
not dependent on local economic
conditions.
uAttain Critical Mass: In-migrating
retirees may provide the critical mass
necessary to support certain types
of businesses that previously did not
exist, reducing out-shopping by longterm residents.
COMPELLING CASE FOR
RETIREE RECRUITMENT
IN OWEN SOUND AND
GREY COUNTY
For the above compelling reasons,
the primary recommendation of the
Georgia Study is that retiree-based
economic development is a good way
to grow and diversify that state’s rural
economy. In the view of OSDCC, such
outreach is equally attractive for the
urban and rural economy of Owen Sound
and Grey County. Let’s get started!
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including budgets, personnel,
etc. to create one organization
with common initiatives (i.e.
Niagara Economic Development
Corporation).
www.BillandErnie.com
u P r o v i d i n g workforce
development
leadership
to connect businesses with
education institutes and
employment sector agencies
www.oschamber.com 5
MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS
Did you know you can avoid
paying probate fees?
Call us to discuss the
latest changes.
www.desmaraisfinancial.com
Rachel Desmarais
Financial Advisor
CFP, EPC, CHS
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345 - 8th St. East, Suite 201,
Owen Sound,
519-416-1600
6 www.oschamber.com
MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS
ONTARIO CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ANALYSIS OF
2015 ONTARIO BUDGET
The Government of Ontario
tabled its 2015 Budget. What
follows is a summary of the
key highlights from a business
perspective. On the whole, this
is a no-surprise, mixed-bag
budget for Ontario businesses.
The government is making
much needed investments in
transportation infrastructure
across the province, but little is
being done to address the growing
burden on businesses and get the
province’s fiscal house back in
order.
debt is projected to grow to $284
billion this year – equivalent to
$20,772 of debt for every Ontarian.
Ontario now spends $11.4 billion
a year on interest payments to
finance its debt.
The government of Ontario
needs to win the confidence of
employers by adopting a clear plan
to achieve their deficit
reduction targets.
As a start, it should
adopt new service
Budget 2015 makes the right delivery models in
commitments but is vague on areas where these
details when it comes to how the models can bring efficiencies.
government will meet its deficit
reduction targets.
Addressing the fiscal situation
should continue to be the
We applaud the government top priority for government.
for making difficult decisions in Eliminating the deficit is the most
terms of wage restraint measures. important step the government
Government has held average can take to improve Ontario’s
THE PROVINCIAL DEFICIT
annual growth in program competitiveness and create jobs
spending to 1.5 percent and they in the province.
HAS RISEN.
are making difficult spending cuts
The 2014-15 deficit is projected in education, health, and other
to rise to $10.9 billion, up from vital areas.
THE ONTARIO GOVERNMENT
$10.5 billion in 2013-14. The total
IS PLOWING AHEAD WITH
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THE ONTARIO RETIREMENT
PENSION PLAN
The government is reiterating
its commitment to establishing a
standalone, mandatory Ontario
pension plan by 2017. The
Ontario Retirement Pension Plan
(ORPP) will require employers
and employees to contribute 1.9
percent of an employee’s yearly
earnings (up to a maximum of
$90,000) per year.
The OCC remains concerned
about the impact that the ORPP
could have on the economy.
According to our recent survey,
only one in four businesses in
Ontario can afford the costs
associated with the new plan,
while 44 percent of businesses
will reduce payroll or hire fewer
employees in response to the
ORPP.
Budget 2015 provides little in
the way of clarity for employers
on the details of the ORPP. We
continue to call on government
to develop a comprehensive
understanding of the impact of the
ORPP and to re-examine the narrow
exemption rules it has
in place. As it stands,
only employers that
offer defined-benefit
pension plans are
exempt from making
contributions to the ORPP.
These narrow parameters ignore
the contributions that many
employers are already making
to their employees’ retirement
through defined-contribution
plans, for example.
EMPLOYERS WILL CONTINUE
TO BE SHOCKED BY RISING
ELECTRICITY RATES
Budget 2015 makes a few
small tweaks to existing electricity
programs. The Industrial
Conservation Initiative (ICI), which
provides a financial incentive to
larger businesses to shift their
electricity consumption from
peak periods, is being expanded
by lowering the threshold for
qualifying industrial sectors from
five megawatts to three. The
Northern Industrial Electricity Rate
(NIER) program is being extended
beyond March 2016, with annual
investments of up to $120 million.
Budget 2015 does little to
address business’ concerns over
rising electricity rates. According
to the OCC’s most recent survey,
rising electricity prices are the
number one factor hurting
business competitiveness.
We remain very concerned
about out-of-control electricity
rates. Coupled with the announced
sale of a portion of Hydro One,
there is significant uncertainty in
the business community in this
respect.
www.oschamber.com 7
MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS
CHAMBER NETWORK PROVIDES FEEDBACK TO
GOVERNMENT ON CAP AND TRADE SYSTEM
A letter was sent to Hon. Glen Murray, Minister of Environment and Climate Change
Dear Minister,
Thank you for the opportunity to respond to the Climate Change Discussion
Paper released in February 2015.
The Ontario Chamber of Commerce and its network of 160 local chambers
the
of commerce and boards of trade represent 60,000 businesses throughout
nearly
e
produc
and
people
million
two
employ
rs
province. Together, our membe
17 percent of Ontario’s GDP.
Like your government, our members recognize that a changing climate due
to rising greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) and the economic impact of climate
ration
change are two critical challenges that require urgent action and collabo
nity
commu
s
busines
’s
Ontario
from business, government, and the broader public.
on
change
climate
of
impact
the
e
supports efforts to reduce GHGs and to mitigat
the environment and the economy.
Since your Discussion Paper was released, Premier Wynne has announced
that the provincial government is moving forward with a cap and trade system
and will join Quebec and California in the system under the Western Climate
on
Initiative. Under the cap and trade system, Ontario will impose a hard ceiling
the GHG pollution allowed in each sector of the economy.
r
The introduction of a cap and trade system must be viewed within the broade
the
year,
past
the
Over
.
Ontario
in
s
context of the escalating cost of doing busines
es
Government of Ontario has implemented or announced a number of initiativ
m
minimu
the
to
es
increas
g
includin
s,
busines
on
that will have a direct impact
Ontario
the
Act,
s
Relation
Labour
the
of
review
a
Act,
n
wage, a new Waste Diversio
Retirement Pension Plan (ORPP), in addition to this new carbon pricing system.
The cumulative impact of these changes, compounded by Ontario’s high
s
and rising electricity rates, poses a serious threat to the future competitivenes
that
ensure
to
ent
governm
of Ontario’s business climate. It is incumbent on your
s.
Ontario remains among the most attractive places in the world to do busines
system
trade
and
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We are concerned about the potenti
must
will have on Ontario businesses and the economy. We believe government
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First, government must consider the impact that the cap and trade system
e. To
and regulatory changes have on the economy and job creation in the provinc
s
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and
hensive
date, government has not released a compre
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released
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be
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analysi
this
has conducted
all Ontarians.
Second, the cap and trade system must be revenue neutral and the revenue
ses
collected should be used to mitigate the impact of the plan on those busines
be
most affected by the costs of the system. The allocation of revenue must
g
ensurin
in
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distanc
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that Ontario busines
competitors.
r
Third, the cap and trade system must not lead to a substantive net transfe
of
r
numbe
a
by
ed
burden
of wealth outside of Ontario. Our province is already
wealth transfers through the Employment Insurance and an array of federal
would
Ontario
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away
transfer
wealth
provincial fiscal arrangements. Any net
tivity,
negatively impact investment in and other determinants of our produc
y.
recover
ic
econom
e’s
provinc
the
to
posing yet another barrier
Fourth, government should harmonize its efforts with immediate competitors
for investment and trade.
While joining Quebec and California is a good first step, those jurisdictions
iate
are not our most important trading partners, nor are they our most immed
ch
approa
an
against
caution
We
competitors for manufacturing investment.
Great
their
to
relative
ntage
disadva
further
that puts Ontario manufacturers at a
Lakes, U.S. Midwest and South peers.
As your government moves ahead with this new cap and trade system, we
strongly encourage you to engage with the business community. We look forward
to being a part of that discussion.
Sincerely,
Allan O’Dette, OCC President and CEO
Bert Loopstra, OSCC President and CEO
We maintain your car
AND your Warranty
GOLF TOURNAMENT
Peninsula Ford Lincoln, and the
Owen Sound and District Chamber
of Commerce asks you to come Join
us on Thursday September 17th at
Legacy Ridge Golf Club for a great day
of golf and a delicious meal! There will
be a live auction, prizes from our hole
sponsors, and raffle prizes! We’ve had
a sellout the last 2 years, so register
early for a chance to be a part of this
day, at the Stanly Thompson designed
Legacy Ridge Golf Club! If you can’t
Family Owned & Operated
make the golf portion of the day, join
us for dinner, advertise on the course
as a sign sponsor, or donate a prize!
1280 2nd Ave. E.
Owen Sound
(519) 376-2540
www.ridecentre.com
AD{TS3786044}
8 www.oschamber.com
MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS
www.oschamber.com 9
MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 2015
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
2015
BOARD OF
DIRECTORS
By Chamber Member Debbie McKague
Our 2015 AGM this year was
held on March 26th at the Best
Western Inn on the Bay. The
surroundings and service as
always were amazing, even to the
point of sitting and watching the
snow storm come in across the
Bay during dinner and watching
the people on the ice dismantle
their ice huts in record time.
We say a fond farewell to our
Past President Joanne Horton
who has been a great contributor
to the Chamber board over the
years of her tinier. We wish her
many years of continued success
in her law practice and her new
endeavors.
Steve Coffey who has cut a
large swath with the Advocacy
committee is now past chair
and I am very fortunate that
as incoming chair I can rely on
him for expert advice from his
experience as chair.
Our guest speaker for the
evening was Lance Thurston from
the Grey Bruce Regional Health
Centre talking about our future
health care needs and what the
hospital is planning for the future
of us many Baby boomers and
the future generations in our area
and how the face of medicine is
ever changing.
Our sad news for the upcoming
year is that Bert Loopstra our CEO
has decided to retire. He has been
with the Chamber for 10 years and
has worked hard to help us grow
and prosper under his guidance.
He will be missed for his strong
voice for business and economic
development and he was our
cheerleader.
Mayor Ian Boddy swears in Chamber Chair Debbie McKague (The Professional
Centre) & Vice Chair Syd Austin (Staples)
As a young girl growing up
on a small farm in Oxenden, I was
in awe of the hustle and bustle
of Owen Sound. It was always
wonderment to me. Over the
years watching the changes that
have taken place to make Owen
Sound what it is today, I am very
excited and honored to be the
Chair of the Owen Sound and
District Chamber of Commerce.
There were over 100 in attendance at the AGM
His enthusiasm and his belief
in the chamber have taken us a
long way.
Bert will be missed in the
upcoming years, but he will
always be welcome to stop by
anytime to say hi and tell us how
great his retirement is. We wish
you all the best in your retirement,
time now for travel, family, rest
and relaxation.
With all the goodbyes we
are happy to announce two
new members to our Board of
Directors- Linda McPhaul and
Peter Reesor.
I look forward to the next
two years as Chair of the Owen
Sound and District Chamber of
Commerce. We will continue
to advocate for the businesses
in our area and continue to Be
Heard, Be Seen and that the
new and existing businesses
continue to Be Long to this great
organization. We are 500 voices
strong and will continue on the
path we have started. New and
existing businesses keep Owen
Sound and area alive and thriving.
The young entrepreneur is where
our future lies and we have many
in the area as we have learned
over the years with our Business
Excellence Awards Gala that
celebrates business in the area.
Owen Sound & District Chamber of Commerce Board of
Directors 2015-2016
Wishing everyone continued
business success in the coming
years.
Back Row L to R; Steve Hencze (Mortgage Financial
Corporation), Tyler Beckett (Sun Life Financial), Bert
Loopstra (Chamber President & CEO retiring June 30 2015),
Mary Smith (Women’s House Serving Bruce & Grey), Peter
Reesor (Peter Reesor & Associates), Lynda McFaul (KC
Distributing)
Best regards,
Front Row L to R; Agnes Martin (Agnes’ Bookkeeping
Service), Steve Coffey –Past Chair (IPC Securities), Debbie
McKague – Chair (The Professional Centre), Syd Austin
– Vice Chair (Staples), Christie Leeder – Treasurer (BDO
Canada LLP)
Debbie McKague,
Chair of the Owen Sound and
District Chamber of Commerce
Absent: Marg Benedict (Benedict Electrical)
Keynote Speaker Lance Thurston
DR COBBLER’S
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TEL: 519-376-4120 • FAX: 519-376-7203
TOLL FREE: 1-800-265-3194
The Dr. is in
921 2nd Ave East
Owen Sound
No Appointment Necessary (519) 373 2081
[email protected]
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GREG HARGEST
Title Sponsor Telus Health Sean McMurray and Adam Kaato
New
Location DT
Owen Sound
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Barry Johnson AMP
Mortgage Broker
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519 378 3304
10 www.oschamber.com
MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS
NOMINATIONS NOW ACCEPTED
AWARDS CRITERIA FOR BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS
Business
of the Year
25+ Employees
Presented to the business which
has had an impact on the area
of Owen Sound including:
demonstrated growth, sales,
leadership, an active involvement
in the community, good business
citizenship, sound employee
relations, safety in the workplace,
en v i r on m e n t al
a w a ren ess,
introduction of a new product or
idea, expansion or exportation of
goods or services.
Co-Sponsored by
Graham Construction
& Living Lighting
Business of the
Year
1 - 25 Employees
Presented to the business which
has had an impact on the area
of Owen Sound including:
demonstrated growth, sales,
leadership, an active involvement
in the community, good business
citizenship, sound employee
relations, safety in the workplace,
environmental awareness,
introduction of a new product or
idea, expansion or exportation of
goods or services.
SOHO (Small
Office Home
Office)
a new product or new idea
and demonstrated potential to
succeed.
One to two persons operation
that has demonstrated
significant business achievement,
sustainable financial performance
and a high level of customer
service.
Sponsored by
Staples
Sponsored by
BDO Canada LLP
New Business of
the Year
Presented to the best new
business that has been
established in the last 30 months.
The business must have shown
initiative and innovation in a
business venture, has introduced
Sponsored by Agnes’
Bookkeeping Service
LARGEST SELECTION OF
NEW & USED OFFICE FURNISHINGS
IN GREY & BRUCE
COMPLIMENTARY HEARING TESTS
FOR ADULTS
Greystone Office Centre, 345 8th St. East, Suite 101
519.376.4174
www.soundspeechnhearing.com
AD{TS3778264}
AD{TS3920142}
Presented to a young entrepreneur
based on the following:
E.Raymond Desmarais can be reached at Creative Solutions,
519-794-4195 • [email protected]
AD{TS3967221}
Hospitality industry members
who have demonstrated
impeccable customer service,
knowledgeable and courteous
staff and superior quality of
product.
Presented to a local business
or individual, other than the
hospitality industry that have
shown special consideration for
customers, ongoing employee
training, high level of community
involvement, friendly, honest and
approachable service.
E. Raymond Desmarais has completed the Master Practitioner
Certification Program in NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming)
and HNLP (Humanistic Neuro Linguistic Psychology). He has also
earned a Ph.D. in Neuro Psychology. He is a Certified Life coach
with a practice (Creative Solutions) in which he uses NLP
among other coaching skills,
www.locking.ca
(519) 376-0210
This award highlights the skilled
tradesperson, contractor or
company that raises the standard
for the rest of the industry by
their quality leadership and
customer service.
Young
Entrepreneur
Award
Ray has competed 30 hours of classroom education by the
internationally recognized Center for Loss and Life Transition in
Fort Collins, Colorado. This course is one of five required to earn the
Death and Grief Studies Certificate.
Brian Morassutti
Carrie Watson
Joyce Bryans (Home Visits)
Hospitality
Award
Service
Excellence Award
Sponsored by Best
Western Inn on the Bay
www.oschamber.com
Skilled Trade
Award
Sponsored by RBC
E. Raymond Desmarais
Understanding and Responding
to Complicated Mourning
Come and See Us at our Brand New Office
www.oschamber.com 11
MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS
Is 30 years of age or younger, selfemployed, has shown initiative
and innovation in a business
venture, has introduced a new
product or new idea and need
not have been involved in a yearround business.
Sponsored by
Georgian College
Sponsored by
Balnar Golf Ltd (Stone
Tree & Legacy Ridge)
Environmental
Stewardship
Award
Presented to a business
that, while pursuing its own
commercial goals, has also
achieved outstanding results
in caring for the environment.
Examples of qualifying activities
are: reusing or recycling materials
and supplies, redesigning
products and services and
motivating its employees to be
more aware of the issues.
Sponsored by
Transcontinental
Upcoming
Events
June 4th, 2015
Alive @ 5 Member Networking at
Have1.com
Community
Service Award
Presented to a business or
individual for a contribution
made within the last year, which
has had an active involvement
in the community and has
demonstrated good business
citizenship.
Sponsored by
Miller Insurance
June 12th, 2015
Awake @ 8 breakfast event at Joe
Tomato’s featured speaker Jackie
Ralph from Canadian Mental Health
Association on the impact of Mental
Health in the Workplace
July 9th, 2015
Alive @ 5 member networking at Brian
E. Wood Funeral Home
July 10th, 2015
Awake @ 8 lunch networking event at
Harrison Park Picnic Shelter Come and
play networking bingo with us!
August 6th
Alive @ 5 member networking at TD
Waterhouse
AD{TS3797344}
Community
Service
Not-for-Profit
Excellence
This award is presented to a notfor-profit organization that has
recognized a need within our
community and who through
community responsibility,
innovation, growth, sound
business practices and community
partnerships has served our
community with vision and integrity.
Sponsored by
BMO Nesbitt Burns
Kelly Haefling
12 www.oschamber.com
MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS
GEM WEBB’S INTERNET
MARKETING & WEB DESIGN
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE AUTHENTIC
IN YOUR MARKETING?
As of April 21st, 2015 Google released
an online search ranking rule that will
highly favour websites that are designed
to view better on all devices (computers,
tablets, cellphones). In this era, where
50% of most website traffic comes from
mobile device users, Google is mandating
all websites to be mobile optimized to
ensure Google search results are relevant
and easy to view on a user’s device. Google
wants to make sure that search results that
appear on page one are designed for your
customers’ best browsing experience.
The word “authenticity” is often bandied
about in reference to marketing and branding.
But far too often people are left wondering
what exactly this means as it relates to their
own marketing.
For me defining authenticity goes back
to the idea that all marketing is about getting
people to know, like and trust you. When
you’re not being authentic to yourself, not
being the “real” you it comes across in your
marketing. People sense that you don’t truly
believe what you’re saying and their level of
trust in you decreases.
So how does this apply to your marketing?
Let me give you an example.
I knew a business consultant who was also
a psychic. She used her psychic abilities when
working with clients. However, she didn’t talk
about in her marketing - ever. She worried if
people knew she was psychic they would think
she was nuts. They’d roll their eyes and walk
away from a psychic business consultant.
As a result she struggled with marketing
and didn’t have enough clients. Worse, the
clients she did have were sceptics. She found
it difficult to work with them because she had
to keep part of her process and herself secret.
I suggested she change tactics; she
should talk about her psychic abilities in her
marketing. Yes, she would drive away people
who don’t believe in psychics. However,
people who do believe would want to work
with her.
The technical term “Responsive
Web Design” is commonly referred to as
mobile optimized web design or mobile
friendly web design. We have all had the
frustration of trying to navigate a
standard desktop website on
our handheld mobile devices.
What did you do? You probably
left the site never to return on
your phone. A mobile friendly
website is designed to respond
and scale in size to the user’s
mobile device, whether it’s
a laptop, tablet or mobile
phone, and provides the best
website experience with easy
navigation and text readability
making it easy to find the
information they need.
“Your website must be mobileoptimized,” says local Internet marketer
and web designer Gem Webb. “You will
be dropping in the rankings against
competitors that have mobile-optimized
websites. Think about the people visiting
Grey Bruce that are no longer going into
the local library or an Internet cafe to use
the computer. They’re on their cellphones
and tablets at a rented cottage or enjoying
a day exploring the local waterfall tour.
They have just finished a spectacular hike
through Harrison Park or they are searching
for the perfect place to eat or shop. With
more people, especially tourists, relying on
their mobile devices to help discover an
area and search for the services they need,
your business’s website may be missed by
online searches if it is not improved for
mobile devices,” Webb says.
Lastly, did you know that
users who access a website from
their mobile device are 20 to 30
per cent more likely to become
that website’s customers? Being
seen and found on Google is
the best way to increase your
Internet visibility – to inform the
community and visitors alike
about your Owen Sound and area
business. Make sure your website is
mobile friendly!
She tried this
and an amazing thing
happened. When she
mentioned her psychic
abilities she found
people whose eyes lit
up. They wanted to know
more. These people were
excited to become her clients. The skeptics
went elsewhere.
As a result she now had a practice full of
people who loved her, liked what she does and
were fully engaged in her process. She had an
easier time creating her marketing materials,
an easier time attracting new clients and was
having much more fun working with them.
So the point is to be who you are. If you try
to censor yourself, at best you begin to sound
like everyone else and you disappear into the
background or at wors,t you drive people
away because they sense there’s something
“off” about your message.
Figure out who are the people who will
love you for your particular skills, quirks and
idiosyncrasies. Then make sure you are only
marketing to them.
Andrea Stenberg is an Owen Soundbased marketing consults who is not psychic.
She has been a member of the Chamber for ten
years. Get a copy of her Branding Tips Formula
at www.TheBabyBoomerEntrepreneur.com/
branding.
Cook’s Plumbing & Heating
Cooks Plumbing & Heating Inc. welcomes
Dale Bruce to the Team. Dale is Cook’s new
HVAC Sales Manager and brings 28+ Years of
providing outstanding customer service. If
you’re in the market for Heating, Ventilation
or A/C for the Hot Summer approaching, give
Dale a Call 519-371-0605 for your No Charge
Consultation.
Twin Mobile Lock Service
Are you accessibility compliant? Twin Mobile
Lock service is offering automatic door
operators. Call Ron today to see if you meet
the Accessibility standards. AADM certified.
519 371-0111
The Professional Centre
The Professional Centre is happy to welcome
Serenity Esthetics to the building.
Megan is an outstanding young business
woman who prides herself in giving amazing
service.
You feel like a million bucks when she works
her magic. Come see her in Unit # 18B on the
first floor.
KC Distributing
KC Distributing is excited to introduce a new
revolutionary sanitizer with technology the
sanitation industry has never seen before!
What Is Your Business
Doing After You?
Miller Insurance
Miller Insurance Brokers is happy to announce
that Steve Barber has joined our organization,
in our Owen Sound office. Steve brings to
us over 7 years of experience in all areas
of insurance including farm, business and
personal lines. We welcome Steve to Miller
Insurance Brokers.
Bryans Sound Speech & Hearing
The owners of Sound Speech & Hearing,
Brian Morassutti and Tracy Slater recently
purchased Bryans Hearing Aids Ltd. Our
new name is now Bryans Sound Speech &
Hearing and we have a brand new office at
the Greystone Office Centre, 345 8th Street
East, Suite 101, Owen Sound. Please drop by
and say hello!
The Technology Centre
The Technology Centre has created a new
workspace for creative & technology related
business people called Creative Space. You
can use one of our offices by the day, week or
month and instead of paying rent, exchange it
with time helping us on some of our projects.
We are looking for graphic designers, web
designers, copywriters, videographers or
other creative people. It’s an opportunity to
work with others on joint projects, share ideas
and get out of the house. Call 519-371-5955
for details.
Telus
Sean McMurray on behalf of Telus was
honoured to have the opportunity to present
New Lowell Central Public School with a
cheque for $2000 towards its Digital Literacy
Program and $500 to the second place winner
of their Telus Wise Footprint Comic Content.
One of three prizes awarded in Canada!
Baywest Mitsubishi
Baywest Mitsubishi is excited to announce
that Mark Austin has rejoined Thrifty Car
Rental. Mark brings over 17 years of car rental
experience. Thrifty Car Rental and ConPerfect
Plus Auto Spa are celebrating one year
anniversaries in their new location at Baywest
Mitsubishi on the Sunset Strip in Owen Sound.
MediaAU
Content marketing agency and educational
publisher MEDIAau welcomes Brandi
Gowan, an experienced Ontario multimedia
marketing professional, as Client Success
Manager. Gowan will oversee all client
accounts, working with MEDIAau clients and
its team of writers, editors and designers.t
Sportmakers Fitness & Training Centre
Sportmakers Fitness & Training Centre would
like to welcome our newest staff member
for the summer: HANNAH CASSIDY! Hannah
is very passionate about living a healthy life
and helping others do the same. Her interests
are in nutrition and fitness. She is currently
working towards her personal training
certification and will be going to school in the
fall for Nutrition.
Sutton –Sound Realty Inc., Brokerage
Ernie Coates, Broker of Record and Bill
McFarlane, Broker have opened a new
Real Estate Business, Sutton - Sound Realty
Inc., Brokerage. Located at 1077 2nd Ave
East, Owen Sound. Telephone 519-3702100 John Coates, and Jan Singbeil, Sales
Representatives have also joined the team.
Sutton-Sound Realty Inc., Brokerage Ernie
Coates & Bill McFarlane
Proud to announce Centresuites on 3rd Ave
are officially ready to be occupied! Open
Houses Friday’s 5:00PM – 7:00PM & Saturday’s
4:00PM – 6PM or by Appointment Call 519370-2100 Website: www.ernieandbill.com or
www.suiteson3.com
continued on page 14
Gillespie’s is the authorized sales and service provider for:
COPIERS & MFP’s
W. R. (Bill) Black, cim®, cfp®
Investment Advisor
Tel: 519-376-0095
Email: [email protected]
985 2nd Avenue E, Suite 101
Owen Sound, ON N4K 2H5
PRINTING SOLUTIONS COMPUTER HARDWARE CASH REGISTERS & P.O.S. SERVICE & SUPPLIES
• Toshiba
• Lexmark
• Lenovo
• Sharp
• on site service
• Ricoh
• Toshiba Barcode
Printers
• Toshiba
• TEC
• Cash register
& printing supplies
• Sharp
At Gillespie’s we are committed to providing our customers with premier service and support on all products that we sell.
Contact us for your complete office equipment solutions!
1580 20 Street East
Owen Sound
th
Celebrating over 45 years of quality service to our customers!
519-371-4207
AD{TS3972370}
KC Distributing is the South Western Ontario
distributor of Ultralyte. This product is safe
and effective for sanitation in health care,
hospitality and institutions. Contact us today
for more information.
By specializing in Sales, Leasing & Service, Gillespie’s is one of the most
recognized names in Grey, Bruce and West Simcoe areas
Ask about our Wealth Management Program for Private
Business Owners for more information on your unique situation.
Opportunities Are Waiting.
Interior • Exterior • Stain • Specialty Paints
• Accessories & More
BUSINESS NEWS TICKER
Gillespie’s Digital Office Solutions provides our customers
unparalleled access to a wide assortment of document
management equipment & industry leasing IT solutions.
Through our specialized program and process, we ultimately
bring you confidence — confidence that you’re taking care of
loved ones and the business you’ve spent your life building.
For all your Painting needs!
www.oschamber.com 13
MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS
www.gillespiedigital.com | 519-376-5760 | 121 Jason Street, Springmount Business Park
W W W. B L AC K F I N A N C IA L .CO M
AD{TS3965562}
AD{TS3798167}
14 www.oschamber.com
MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS
BUSINESS
NEWS TICKER
continued from page 13
The Business Enterprise Centre
Grant Program. Between 18-29, out of school,
unemployed, ready to live your dream?
Or already started your business and have
plans of growing it? “Starter Company”
offers training, mentoring and business
plan development working towards a
grant application up to $5000. Contact the
Business Enterprise Centre 519-371-3232 or
[email protected]
The Women’s Centre
The Women’s Centre is pleased to announce
our 2nd Helping through Handbags; a
Treasure Chest Auction to be held again at
ThomBoys on Saturday, October 17, 2015 at
4:00 pm. A great fundraiser with a twist!! For
more information: www.thewomenscentre.
org or call Teresa 519-376-0755 ext. 103.
Bishop House
Take time to discover history and heritage
at the Victorian boyhood home of Great
War flying ace Billy Bishop. Bishop House,
open late - to 9pm – on Wednesdays and
Sundays in July and August. Enjoy our
Sunday night Ghost Walks, old ‘flickers’ on
Wednesday nights, Victorian Dessert Teas,
and Chapman’s sponsored Victorian Ice
Cream Socials for families in June, July and
August long weekends.
The Highland Manor Grand Victorian Inn Bed
and Breakfast
The Highland Manor Grand Victorian Inn Bed
and Breakfast is thrilled to announce that
they have just been welcomed by Tripadvisor.
com into their Certificate of Excellence Hall of
Fame. This accolade is granted only to those
businesses worldwide that have won the
Certificate of Excellence for 5 years in a row.
OLG Slots at Hanover Raceway
The OLG Slots at Hanover Raceway is excited
to introduce our new General Manager Linda
McColl. Linda has relocated to the area and
is very excited to be working with the staff in
Hanover and to get involved in the community
we serve. There is always something FUN
happening on Friday nights in Hanover!
MEET OUR SERVICE &
PARTS DEPARTMENTS
Bailey Lounsbury
Service Advisor
Marsha Bumstead
Parts Advisor
Todd Hatfield
Parts Advisor
Bailey Lounsbury and Marsha Bumstead are welcome additions to the Parts and Service Team here at Kia of Owen Sound.
Bailey is a recent Business Marketing Graduate from Georgian College and is looking forward to assisting you with your
vehicle service needs at Kia. Bailey is an enthusiastic follower of the APC Late Model Racing Series and can also be
spotted at Sauble Speedway watching the racing there.
Marsha is a life-long resident of Owen Sound. Married with three kids and seven grandchildren, Marsha enjoys her
home, family and time spent in her garden. Marsha has a background in Customer Service and Administration and looks
forward to assisting with your parts requirements.
519-371-4447
KIA of Owen Sound
Military
LIKE US ON
TO LEARN MORE.
www.kiaos.ca
AD{TS3920072}
Hardie Fountain
Service Manager
t
Mobility Assistance
Grad Rebate
www.kiaos.ca
www.kiaos.ca
www.kiaos.ca
KIA OF OWEN SOUND KIA OF OWEN SOUND KIA OF OWEN SOUND
KIA OF OWEN SOUND KIA OF OWEN SOUND KIA OF OWEN SOUND
KIA OF OWEN SOUND KIA OF OWEN SOUND KIA OF OWEN SOUND
www.kiaos.ca
NEW
MEMBERS
Leadership Charisma Group
125 Alexandra Way, Blue Mountains, ON L9Y
0S3
Contact: Charlie Regan
Classification: Professional
Phone: 416 805-8120
Leadership Charisma Group helps business
leaders who are: Interested in improving their
team’s performance; Concerned about staff
only doing the minimum at work; Wanting their
team to collaborate better on key corporate
issues.
Gem Webb Internet Marketing & Web Design
315 7th St E, Owen Sound, ON N4K 1J1
Contact: Gem Webb
Classification: Professional
Phone: 519 387-9322
We provide advantages that will dramatically
increase your business website exposure.
Websites include keyword focused Search
Engine Optimization “SEO”, graphics and onpage copy optimization, Inbound link analysis,
local search, competitor analysis, maps, content
forms, social media integration and, mobile
optimization.
Landlord Legal Inc.
RR #2, Meaford, ON N4L 1W6
Contact: April Stewart
Phone: 519 538-6819
Classification: Professional
Landlord Legal has been representing
traumatized landlords for 15 years. The firm
began in Barrie, expanded to Grey County in
2013, and we have represented our clients all
over Ontario. Whether you are a small landlord
in need of support or a large landlord looking
for an outstanding legal resource, Landlord
Legal is the residential landlord’s best friend.
Landlord Legal - Because Landlords Have Rights
Too!
T. Meekins Counselling & Training Services
339 14th St E, Owen Sound, ON N4K 1W8
Contact: Trish Meekins
Phone: 519 376-4983
Classification: Professional
Trish has been a counsellor, trainer and
facilitator for over 20 years and is committed
to creating a relaxed, open atmosphere for her
clients. Whether you want to uncover your gifts
or set goals, Trish has proven to be effective by
using a realistic, compassionate and straight
forward approach. Her expertise lies in First
Nations history, culture and traditional healing
practices.
The Cooperators – Jason Legge
1050 2nd Ave E, Unit #1, Owen Sound, ON
N4K 2H7
Contact: Jason Legge
Phone: 519 376-8228
Classification: Professional
You deserve a personalized approach with
one-on-one advice and answers to all of your
insurance and investment questions. You
can also expect service beyond your policy
purchase; we’ll keep you informed of any
changes or new products.
D for Decorate
122461 Grey Road 5, RR #3, Owen Sound, ON
N4K 5N5
Contact: Dianne Boettger
Phone: 519 387-0877
Classification: Professional
Hi, my name is Dianne Boettger. I paint
and hang wallpaper with a woman’s touch.
Whether it is a couple of rooms or a couple of
walls, I will provide quality workmanship at a
competitive price. I would love to make your
home personally yours with colour. Call me
at ‘D for Decorate!’
Bibles for Missions Thrift Store
1698 18th Ave E, Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N3
Contact: Mary Anderson
Phone: 519 416-7780
Classification: Retail
We are a thrift store accepting donations of
good used items. These items are sorted and
cleaned by a dedicated band of volunteers.
They are then offered for sale to members
of the community and area at affordable
prices. Our surplus funds, as a not-for-profit
organization, support the various missions of
the Bible League of Canada but, in addition,
through our alliance with the Victim Services
and other agencies of Owen Sound we also
support those in need in our community.
J9 Communications
2532 5th Ave W, Owen Sound, ON N4K 5C8
Contact: Janine Fawcett
Phone: 519 376-5457
Classification: Professional
Janine Fawcett was head of communications
at the former O’Keefe Centre (now The
Sony Centre) and in New York managing
marketing and publicity for touring
productions of Cameron Mackintosh’s Miss
Saigon and Les Miserables. In 1998 Ms.
Fawcett established J9 Communications,
a consulting firm, specializing in
entertainment marketing and publicity. In
2011 she launched Right Channel Speakers,
a boutique speakers bureau. Visit www.
rightchannelspeakers.com for more
information.
Piece by Peace
1190 2nd Ave E, Owen Sound, ON N4K 2H9
Contact: Connie Illman
Phone: 226 664-8000
Category: Retail
Marine Upholstery, Boat top repairs, RV
cushion replacements, Industrial sewing,
Horse Blanket repairs, Teddy bears made
from real (re-purposed only) and faux fur,
other handmade items for sale as well.
The Milk Maid
947 2nd Ave E, Owen Sound, ON N4K 2H5
Contact: Jennifer Smith
NEW MEMBERS
Phone: 519 372-1130
Category: Food
The Milk Maid Fine Cheese and Gourmet Food is
a retail store on the Main Street offering a wide
selection of regional and international cheeses,
cheese accompaniments, tea and coffee! We
serve lunch between 11-2 Tuesday - Saturday.
Come in, browse the shop, and then stay for a
glass of wine and a cheese tasting platter.
Re/Max Katrina Eldred
837 2nd Ave E, Owen Sound, ON N4K 6K6
Contact: Katrina Eldred
Phone: 519 377-3321
Category: Real Estate
I was born and raised in Owen Sound. I lived
and worked in Toronto for 12 years in sales as
a professional fitness trainer, and I know I can
successfully apply my sales experience, energy,
and knowledge to my Real Estate career in
Owen Sound and its surrounding communities.
Knowing exactly what I was missing by living
in the “big city,” I am more appreciative of my
roots and am excited about helping my clients
find their special home, sell the one they are in,
or both.
Avenue A- Sign Street
PO Box 1010, 107 Jason St, Owen Sound, ON
N4K 6H6
Contact: Deb Shaw
Phone: 519 379-1177
Category: Media & Advertising
Wish to make a difference in your marketing and
advertising? Of course you do. Look to Avenue
A....because there’s still truth in advertising.
Our online portfolio is a small sampling of the
range of advertising services we offer at Avenue
A, including creative writing, web development,
and graphic design.
Anytime Fitness
1555 16th St E, Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N3
Contact: Linda Marsh
Phone: 226 664-6113
Category: Health
Anytime Fitness is the world’s largest 24
hour gym and co-ed fitness center. At our
Owen Sound health club, you can exercise
any time using your own security-access
key! That’s 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,
365 days a year. Talk about no more excuses.
Affordable memberships in Owen Sound\ one
membership, thousands of health clubs At the
Anytime Fitness center in Owen Sound we’re
proud to offer the benefit of Anywhere Club
Access.
Re/Max Grey Bruce Realty Shannon McComb
PO Box 1029, 837 2nd Ave E, Owen Sound, ON
N4K 6K6
Contact: Shannon McComb
Phone: 226-668-5005
Category: Real Estate
Being a lifelong resident of Grey Bruce Owen
Sound and through my active lifestyle I bring
extensive knowledge of all our area has to offer
11st
st Annual LDG
“Longest
““L
L
Longest Day of Golf ”
A Solstice Party
470 24th St W, Owen Sound, ON N4K 4H8
Contact: Janet Boyd
Phone: 226 668-1401
Classification: Professional
exemplifying my ability to market property. A
genuine and driven professional with a strong
work ethic my dedication to my Real Estate
career presents as a valuable asset while
facilitating clients in their Real Estate needs.
Living Lighting Owen Sound
1209 16th St E, Owen Sound, ON N4K 5N3
Contact: Brandon Vanderschot
Phone: 519 371-5645
Category: Retail
Affiliated with Canada’s largest lighting chain,
Living Lighting Owen Sound represents the
best brands and latest designs on the market.
As new owners Nathan, a licensed electrician,
and Brandon Vanderschot, a local realtor,
bring unique expertise and a renewed focus
on customer service. Our emphasis is on welldesigned lighting and accessories to fit every
style and budget. Please contact us or stop by
and let us assist you with your lighting needs.
Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario
117-4500 Blakie Rd London, ON N6L 1G5
Contact: Joanne Bernard
Phone: 519 652-9437 or 1 888 851-7376
Classification: Non Profit
Parkinson Society Southwestern Ontario is
the voice of people living with Parkinson’s in
Southwestern Ontario. Our purpose is to ease
the burden and find a cure through support
services, education, advocacy and research.
Please contact 1 888 851-7376 or info@
parkinsonsociety.ca for more information.
Horton & Horton
Lawyers Since 1939
Barristers, Solicitors &
Notary Public
Proceeds support the United Way’s
Utility Assistance Program
Phoenix Restaurant Rescue
Courses sponsoring golfers:
Real Estate, Wills, Estates,
Corporate, Civil Litigation,
Family Law, Separation,
Divorce and Collaborative Family Law
We maintain your car
AND your Warranty
Phoenix restaurant rescue is Janet Boyd’s
management consulting business. She is
the former owner of Subway Subs and many
other businesses. She has proven marketing
and leadership skills; and finds realistic
solutions enhancing profitability. Janet is a
result driven professional with an extensive
track record of success in operations
management.
Family Owned & Operated
How it works:
• Gather as many pledges as possible.
• Pay your green and cart fees ONCE
• Play as many holes, rounds of golf as possible
• Turn in your pledges to the pro shop
Randy’s Lock-Safe & Alarm Inc.
881 10th St W, Owen Sound, ON N4K 6S1
Contact: Sandra Suchow
Phone: 519 372-1573
Classification: Professional
Randy’s Lock-Safe & Alarm Inc. was founded
in 1988. We provide a large variety of security
services including, standard, specialty,
automotive and code cutting services,
computerized master key systems, standard
and high security lock sets, safety deposit
boxes, closed circuit TV, alarm monitoring
& installations. Giving you peace of mind,
that’s Randy’s Lock-Safe & Alarm Inc.
www.oschamber.com 15
MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS
Edward P. Horton, B.A., LL.B., Q.C.
W. Joanne Horton, B.Sc., LL.B.
R. P. Horton, Q.C. (1939-1982)
1280 2nd Ave. E.
Owen Sound
See
www.unitedwayofbrucegrey.com
Superior Service with Experience
Serving One Client at a Time
(519) 376-2540
for participating courses
For more information:
519-376-8650
United Way of Bruce Grey
519-376-1560 | [email protected]
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www.ridecentre.com
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16 www.oschamber.com
MAKE IT YOUR BUSINESS
ONLY
A FEW SEATS
REMAINING