greater oshawa chamber business matters€¦ · procurement, installation, repair, proactive...

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Up to 24 Hour Care Meal Preparation, Homemaking Medication Reminders, PersonalCare, Companionship, Shopping,Transportation, Alzheimer & Dementia Care Hospital, Home or Nursing Home Support www.homeinstead.com Whether you are looking for someone to help an aging parent a few hours a week or need more comprehensive assistance, Home Instead can help. Call for a free, no-obligation appointment: 905-723-1800 Each Home Instead Senior Care ® franchise office is independently owned and operated. © 2009 Home Instead, Inc. Published by the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce • Established 1928 • Reaching over 5,600 Decision Makers • Email: [email protected]905.728.1683 BUSINESSMATTERS SERVING OUR MEMBERS AND THE BUSINESS COMMUNITIES OF • OSHAWA • BOWMANVILLE • COLUMBUS • COURTICE • HAMPTON • ORONO • RAGLAN • T AUNTON YOUR VOICE OF BUSINESS VOL 25 ISSUE 11 DECEMBER 2009 Business Law Wills & Estates Residential Commercial Real Estate 905-436-9015 VIA Rail Announces New Station For Oshawa ON THE NORTH SHORE OF LAKE ONTARIO OSHAWA HARBOUR COMMISSION 1050 Farewell Ave., Oshawa Tel: 905-576-0400 | Fax: 905-576-5701 [email protected] FULL SEAWAY DEPTH One call provides full service, including stevedoring, storage, distribution and inland transportation. www.oshawaportauthority.com Cont.’d on page 5 The Greater Chamber of Commerce believes Indecision Is Destroying Opportunity For Canada To Create Jobs In Nuclear Industry See Letter to Prime Minister Harper and Premier McGuinty on page 3 At a ceremony in Oshawa on November 9th, Colin Car- rie, Member of Parliament for Oshawa; Oshawa Mayor John Gray, and Mr. Pierre Santoni, VIA Rail’s National Sales Direc- tor, announced VIA’s plans for a new station with improved and expanded facilities. VIA esti- mates that it will invest as much as $7 million for the new station and related improvements from recent capital funding for VIA announced by the Government of Canada. Of the project’s total cost, $3 million will come from the government’s Economic Ac- tion Plan. “Investment in a new VIA sta- tion for Oshawa will not only create new jobs and stimulate the economy but also allow VIA to provide better service to its lo- cal customers,” said MP Carrie. “By investing in rail services and facilities such as those here in Oshawa, our government is stimulating economic activity and job creation, contributing to environmental sustainability and improving Canada’s passenger rail system for years to come.” VIA’s Pierre Santoni added, “The investments here in Osha- wa and across our coast-to-coast route network will create a top- notch passenger rail service. A rail service that is safe, fast and sustainable. A rail service that is designed for Canadians in the OSHAWA SKI FACILITY LAUNCHES NEW NAME AFTER 73 YEARS Beginning this season, Ontario’s Oshawa Ski Club will now operate simply as BRIMACOMBE. First Frost at the Brim, the official launch party, ribbon cutting and grand re-opening, took place on November 8th. Pictured above: Font Row: Linda Schaffer, Manager of Administration, Brimacombe; Charlie Trim, Regional Councilor; Gord Robinson, Councilor; Chris Greer, Director, Brimacombe; Jim Abernathy. Mayor of Clarington; Bev Don- ald, Director, Brimacombe; Bob Corbett, President, Brimacombe; Rob Partington, Director, Brimacombe; Steve McGill, Director, Brimacombe; Gail Short, Director, Brimacombe; Mark Rutherford, Operations Manager, Bri- macombe; Back Row: Tony Budkowski, Director, Brimacombe; Tony McCraw, Director, Brimacombe; and Doug Barlow Director, Brimacombe. For more information, visit www.oshawaskiclub.com. Christmas Wine And Cheese Event The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Christmas Wine and Cheese event on December 8th at the Officers’ Mess – Ontario Regiment, 53 Simcoe Street North from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Please bring an unwrapped toy, non-perish- able food item or toiletry item to be distributed among local charities! Table top displays are avail- able to Chamber members…this is a great way to promote your products or services for the busy Holiday Season! The event is sponsored by Ontario Motor Sales. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, visit www. oshawachamber.com. Breakfast With Regional Chairperson, Roger Anderson The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Breakfast with Durham Regional Chair, Roger Ander- son on January 21 at the Holiday Inn Oshawa Whitby Conference Centre, 1011 Bloor Street East, Oshawa from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, visit www.oshawachamber.com. From everyone at the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce

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Page 1: Greater Oshawa Chamber Business Matters€¦ · procurement, installation, repair, proactive network support, 24/7 remote monitoring and project based consulting. ... Diane Munro,

Up to 24 Hour CareMeal Preparation, Homemaking

Medication Reminders, PersonalCare,Companionship, Shopping,Transportation,

Alzheimer & Dementia Care

Hospital, Home or Nursing Home Support

www.homeinstead.com

Whether you are looking for someone tohelp an aging parent a few hours a week

or need more comprehensive assistance, Home Instead can help.

Call for a free, no-obligation appointment:

905-723-1800

Each Home Instead Senior Care® franchise office is independently owned and operated. © 2009 Home Instead, Inc.

Published by the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce • Established 1928 • Reaching over 5,600 Decision Makers • Email: [email protected] • 905.728.1683

BUSINESSMATTERSSERVING OUR MEMBERS AND THE BUSINESS COMMUNITIES OF • OSHAWA • BOWMANVILLE • COLUMBUS • COURTICE • HAMPTON • ORONO • RAGLAN • TAUNTON

Y O U R V O I C E O F B U S I N E S S VOL 25 ISSUE 11 DECEMBER 2009

Business Law Wills & EstatesResidential Commercial Real Estate

905-436-9015

VIA Rail Announces New Station For Oshawa

ON THE NORTH SHORE OF LAKE ONTARIO

OSHAWA HARBOUR COMMISSION1050 Farewell Ave., Oshawa

Tel: 905-576-0400 | Fax: [email protected]

FULL SEAWAY DEPTHOne call provides full service, including stevedoring,

storage, distribution and inland transportation.

www.oshawaportauthority.com

Cont.’d on page 5

The Greater Chamber of Commerce believes

Indecision Is Destroying Opportunity For Canada To Create Jobs In Nuclear IndustrySee Letter to Prime Minister Harper and Premier McGuinty on page 3

At a ceremony in Oshawa on November 9th, Colin Car-rie, Member of Parliament for Oshawa; Oshawa Mayor John Gray, and Mr. Pierre Santoni, VIA Rail’s National Sales Direc-tor, announced VIA’s plans for a new station with improved and expanded facilities. VIA esti-mates that it will invest as much as $7 million for the new station and related improvements from recent capital funding for VIA announced by the Government of Canada. Of the project’s total cost, $3 million will come from the government’s Economic Ac-tion Plan.

“Investment in a new VIA sta-tion for Oshawa will not only create new jobs and stimulate the economy but also allow VIA to provide better service to its lo-cal customers,” said MP Carrie. “By investing in rail services and facilities such as those here in Oshawa, our government is stimulating economic activity and job creation, contributing to environmental sustainability and improving Canada’s passenger rail system for years to come.”

VIA’s Pierre Santoni added, “The investments here in Osha-wa and across our coast-to-coast route network will create a top-notch passenger rail service. A rail service that is safe, fast and sustainable. A rail service that is designed for Canadians in the

OSHAWA SKI FACILITY LAUNCHES NEW NAME AFTER 73 YEARSBeginning this season, Ontario’s Oshawa Ski Club will now operate simply as BRIMACOMBE. First Frost at the Brim, the official launch party, ribbon cutting and grand re-opening, took place on November 8th. Pictured above: Font Row: Linda Schaffer, Manager of Administration, Brimacombe; Charlie Trim, Regional Councilor; Gord Robinson, Councilor; Chris Greer, Director, Brimacombe; Jim Abernathy. Mayor of Clarington; Bev Don-ald, Director, Brimacombe; Bob Corbett, President, Brimacombe; Rob Partington, Director, Brimacombe; Steve McGill, Director, Brimacombe; Gail Short, Director, Brimacombe; Mark Rutherford, Operations Manager, Bri-macombe; Back Row: Tony Budkowski, Director, Brimacombe; Tony McCraw, Director, Brimacombe; and Doug Barlow Director, Brimacombe. For more information, visit www.oshawaskiclub.com.

Christmas Wine And Cheese Event

The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Christmas Wine and Cheese event on December 8th at the Officers’ Mess – Ontario Regiment, 53 Simcoe Street North from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Please bring an unwrapped toy, non-perish-able food item or toiletry item to be

distributed among local charities! Table top displays are avail-able to Chamber members…this is a great way to promote your products or services for the busy Holiday Season! The event is sponsored by Ontario Motor Sales. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, visit www.oshawachamber.com.

Breakfast With Regional Chairperson, Roger Anderson

The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Breakfast with Durham Regional Chair, Roger Ander-son on January 21 at the Holiday Inn Oshawa Whitby Conference Centre, 1011 Bloor Street East, Oshawa from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, visit www.oshawachamber.com.

From everyone at the Greater

Oshawa Chamber of Commerce

Page 2: Greater Oshawa Chamber Business Matters€¦ · procurement, installation, repair, proactive network support, 24/7 remote monitoring and project based consulting. ... Diane Munro,

Page 2 Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce – Your Voice of Business December 2009

BUSINESS OF THE MONTH

Revolution Salon & Spa

Revolution Salon & Spa located at 2727 Courtice Road recently celebrated their first year in business. Owner Mark Critchon’s passion for people is what drove him to start the “Revolution”. The team at Revolution Salon & Spa pride themselves on their talent and ability to design and create that perfect look by creating a style suited to body, face, personal-ity, and life style. The team is versed in the newest trends and techniques and uses only the finest hair care products from Tony & Guy. It is quite apparent why Revolution Salon & Spa has been chosen Business of the Month. Pictured in this pre-

sentation (back row) from left to right are, Doreen Crichton, Al Watson of TIGI, Ashley Crichton, Michael, (front row) John Sturrup of JS2 Marketing & Communications, Mark Critchon, owner of Revolution Salon & Spa, Lynsey, Yvonne, Jalayne, Katelyn, Gary, Brandy and Brittanee. Give them a call for all of your holiday styling needs at 905-433-0066! On behalf of the Ambassador Committee and the Greater Osha-wa Chamber of Commerce, congratulations on being named Business of the Month for December 2009.

• business • liability • transportation• contractors • bonds• manufacturing• directors and officers• group • realty• hospitality

We’ve got you covered

Oshawa1180 Simcoe St. N.Phone 905-433-4200Fax: 433-1358

Bowmanville67 King St. E.Phone: 905-623-6100Fax: 433-1358

www.petleyhare.com

[email protected]

I n s u r a n c e B r o k e r s S i n c e 1 9 2 2

Aeon Egmond Ltd. has offered environmental, storm wa-ter, and geotechnical engineering services to clients in real estate, business, and government for 22 years. Aeon Egmond Ltd. was founded by John Van Egmond and Paul Wilson. John and Paul are professional engineers who like to serve customers like you. They have completed projects ranging from million dollar engineering projects involving multiple sites to small sites for individuals and charities. Their clients often focus on pre-emptive strategies that work to retain asset value. In cases where the soils were poor or contaminated this has meant clients have been able to avoid taking over prob-lem sites by engaging Aeon Egmond Ltd. In other cases Aeon Egmond Ltd. have helped clients save millions of dollars in

clean up costs or soil disposal fees. They use experience and on site testing methods including XRF (xray fluorescence) to save clients time and money. For soil, environmental, water or mould issues, they offer services focusing on their client’s needs and goals. Need engineering support before you buy a factory? Need a second engineering opinion on a contami-nated asset? Worried that cracks in the walls may mean your building is failing? If so, you might want to call an engineer. Aeon Egmond Ltd. would like to be your engineer of choice when you make that call. They will endeavor to support you as you build and retain asset value. Aeon Egmond Ltd. can be reached at 1-800-267-4797.

MEMBER PROFILE

Member 2 Member Discount Directory (M2M) see page 9 for details or visit www.oshawachamber.com

John F. R. WilliamsChartered Accountant

43 Wilson Road NorthOshawa, Ontario L1G 6C9

T: 905.725.5551 F: [email protected]

Wheel Straightening General Repairs Balancing & Alignment

Wheel Straightening General Repairs Balancing & Alignment

STEPHENSON’S STEERING SPECIALISTSLIMITED

133-A Taunton Rd. W. Oshawa

By Appointment Please905-725-0522 or 905-725-0650

Page 3: Greater Oshawa Chamber Business Matters€¦ · procurement, installation, repair, proactive network support, 24/7 remote monitoring and project based consulting. ... Diane Munro,

December 2009 Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce – Your Voice of Business Page 3

November 16, 2009 Right Honourable Steven Harper, MP Prime Minister of CanadaParliament Buildings OTTAWA, ONTARIOFaxed to 613 -941-6900

Hon. Dalton McGuinty, M.P.P.Premier of Ontario Queen’s ParkTORONTO, ON Faxed to 416-325-3745

Dear Prime Minister Harper & Premier McGuinty

IndecIsIon Is destroyIng opportunIty For canada to create Jobs In the nuclear Industry

The Canadian Nuclear Industry was recently described at a standing committee meeting as “modern, tight, well-organized, and highly

qualified supply chain that is actually the envy of many of the other reactor vendors.” It has the potential to be one of the most positive

factors for the well-being of Canadians throughout the 21st century. With its leading edge technology, experience and infrastructure,

Canada could be a dominant player in the Nuclear Energy Renaissance that is taking place throughout the world.

However, the Nuclear Industry in Canada has passed a fork in the road and is involuntarily being walked down the path of decline

as a result of the combined, actions of the Ontario and Federal governments.

Ontario’s delay in its decision on the Darlington nuclear facility, announced in June, has created a vacuum which is being ex-

ploited by other nations and has crippled Canada’s prospects for selling its technologies abroad. While we may understand the

respective responsibilities of our State and Provinces potential customers elsewhere in the world see this as a direct vote of no

confidence in our reactor design and the capabilities of our own companies. We stress that the effects are much broader than just

the challenge created to AECL in selling reactors but affects the credibility of the 150 Canadian companies that constitute the sup-

ply chain.

The restructuring of AECL is stated to be one reason for the suspension of the Ontario process. It is of special concern to us that

if the restructuring takes a significant time our Canada’s opportunity could easily have dissipated before we even start. Even if the

opportunity remains our ability to access it may be lost as foreign firms have already commenced hiring away some of the best

and brightest from the Canadian Nuclear Energy Industry. The restructuring may be necessary but it appears inconceivable to

the business community that our Federal and Provincial Governments cannot work together to get these issues resolved to retain

confidence and get decisions made on a timely basis. We wonder whether our Federal and Ontario governments recognize that

the world and its economies operate in “real time” and that in the 21st century “real time” is measured in days, weeks and months,

NOT YEARS!!

The cancellation of the “Avro Arrow” five decades ago has been recognized in Canada as an example of the lack of political will to

recognize and support Canada’s potential for greatness. While this decision may have arisen from a lack of vision at least a deci-

sion was made. It will be so much more shameful if we lose another anchor industry simply because appropriate decisions could

not be made in a timely manner.

Nuclear Energy can become a cornerstone to achieving an ecologically sound and sustainable energy supply. Developed and

developing countries around the world have recognized this and are quickly moving forward with plans for sustainable energy that

include Nuclear Energy as a key component.

Canada’s advanced technology and unsurpassed safety record make it the most desirable option for the world to ensure a safe

and stable supply of Nuclear Energy. Canada’s abilities can make Nuclear Energy an environmentally sound and economically vi-

able option for the world.

The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce wants the world to use Canadian Nuclear Energy Technology because it is the best

option for the environment and the safest option for the world. The benefits to Canada of a vibrant Nuclear Energy Industry are

many and varied, including providing a safe emissions free and economic supply of energy, the creation of tens of thousands of

skilled, high paying jobs, a high value product that can be manufactured in Canada that is in demand throughout the world, and

utilization in Canada of advanced technology and manufacturing processes that can provide an impetus to other research and

manufacturing sectors in Canada.

The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce believes in and supports Canada’s potential for greatness and urges our Ontario and

Federal governments to do the same and ACT NOW!!!!

Do not delay these decisions any longer—TIME IS RUNNING OUT!

CONPUTE specializes in assessing, identifying and recommending IT business solutions that will exceed your expectations. We are able to provide procurement, installation, repair, proactive network support, 24/7 remote monitoring and project based consulting.

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For more news, visitwww.oshawachamber.com

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Page 4: Greater Oshawa Chamber Business Matters€¦ · procurement, installation, repair, proactive network support, 24/7 remote monitoring and project based consulting. ... Diane Munro,

Page 4 Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce – Your Voice of Business December 2009

Published by the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce44 Richmond Street WestOshawa, Ontario L1G 1C7Tel: 905-728-1683 Fax: 905-432-1259

Email: [email protected]

Internet: www.oshawachamber.com

Neil Alexander, DirectorOrganization of CANDU Industries Denise Alford, Executive-at-Large Denise Alford - Life Success ConsultantDon Conaby, Director CONPUTECris Douglas, Executive-at-Large CRCS General ContractingLinda Grieco, DirectorP.R. Engineering Fred Thornley, Director General PrintersDave Hare, President Petley Hare Insurance

Harry Horricks, DirectorOshawa ClinicSteve Ireland, TreasurerTD FinancialBob Malcolmson, CEO & General Mgr.Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce Kevin Mara, Past PresidentNeal Mara FraserDiane Munro, DirectorClassic FlowersIsabelle Roberts, Director B.R.I.C. Engineered SystemsBob Rockbrune, DirectorRockbrune Bros. Ltd.

Colin Sinclair, Director Newton-Trelawney PropertyLynne Sharpe, DirectorPrime RailwayJohn Walker, Vice President Ontario Regiment, Officers’ Mess John Williams, DirectorJohn Williams, CATony Willson, Director Ontario Motor SalesMaryLynn West-Moynes, Director University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Business Matters is an information package provided to members of the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce and businesses at large. The positions expressed in by-lined columns are the opinions of the author and do not reflect the position of the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce unless specifically stated. The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce assumes no responsibility for statements or claims made by advertisers. The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce publishes Business Matters 11 times per year. Issue dates are January, February, March, April, May, June, July/August, September, October, November and December. Closing date is the 15th of the month prior to publication.

Business Matters is delivered to 5,000 businesses in the Greater Oshawa area. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Canada Post publication agreement #40804106.

Presented by Robert Brozina

As government programs change their ben-efits, often reducing the coverage, it’s more im-portant than ever to understand how your group insurance plan can provide a financial safety net – especially when it comes to prescription drugs.

All group health plans base their benefits on a list of eligible drugs called a formulary. Most insurance companies have several formularies available. This lets employers choose, from comprehensive plans that cover most prescrip-tion drugs to more restrictive plans where only certain types of drugs are covered.

Some group plans even let the employer add or remove specific drugs to control coverage – and cost! For example, smoking cessation or erectile dysfunction drugs may be covered under some plans and not covered under others.

If you opt for the most comprehensive plan, one that includes all medications with a DIN (Drug Identification Number), your plan will allow over 10,000 items. Such plans are not common today because the cost of these plans is typically quite high. Today’s more typical for-

mulary would cover drugs which, by law, require a prescription – approximately 8,300 items.

With plan costs rising, many companies turn to “managed formularies” with cost containment features. For example, managed formularies may pay for generic drugs, but not the additional cost of brand name versions. Some group plans use a provincial drug listing as the basis of their coverage. These cover from 3,500 to 7,500 items. Privately developed formularies, such as Emergis’ “National Formulary”, cover between 6,200 and 6,700 DIN designated items.

Whichever formulary you choose, keep in mind that medications may have multiple DINs. That’s the case with a 200 mg tablet, a 400 mg tablet and a 400 mg time-release capsule, all with the same active ingredient. In some formular-ies, the 400 mg tablet may be covered, while the time-released capsule might not.

Too many choices? Your Chambers Plan agent can help you select the right formulary for your needs.

ARE MY PRESCRIPTIONS COVERED?

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGEDave Hare

Recently we hosted a luncheon with Ipsos Reed V.P. and Managing Director, John Wright who was not only very informative on “What Canadians are thinking” but was a surprisingly entertaining speak-er also. Who knew that Boston Cream is Canada’s favorite flavor of donut? At the end of the meeting, Councilor Louise Parkes, who very seldom misses a Chamber event, greeted me and commented on how impressed she was with the quality of the Chamber programs. As my year as Chamber President winds down, on reflection, I must concur. In the past cou-ple of months alone we hosted Rear Admiral David-son, Industry Minister The Honorable Tony Clem-ent, Revenue Minister John Wilkinson and had an extremely successful Business Excellence Awards dinner. Kudos to Bob Malcolmson and our Chamber staff who make it all work and work seamlessly. It has indeed been a good year.

In the November Business Matters, I wrote about our success in Victoria at the Canadian Chamber AGM, in having our Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce National Nuclear Energy Strategy in-corporated into the Canadian Chambers’ “Powering Up Canadian Prosperity” policy. The report calls for the development of a Canadian Sustainable Energy Strategy and highlights the importance (particularly in areas such as the Durham Region) of integrating Canada’s energy sector with other Canadian busi-nesses and industries.

It is now apparent that the Canadian Chamber is very serious about working with us to ensure some traction on this issue. Last week, three Directors on the Canadian Chamber Executive came to Oshawa and participated in an Energy Roundtable hosted by the GOCC. In attendance were the decision mak-ers from the Region of Durham, Durham College, UOIT, Durham Economic Prosperity Conference,

Durham Energy Strategic Alliance, Organization of CANDU Industries and the Greater Toronto Mar-keting Alliance. Consensus was that it was an inter-esting and productive session and a good first step in the development of a strategy to ensure Canada becomes a leader in the energy field. As Dr. Neil Al-exander, President of the Organization of CANDU Industries commented, “we can’t become a world leader by simply digging things out of the ground and selling them. We should be working out how we can use these assets to put us in the forefront of technology that the rest of the world will need”. Al-though it’s gratifying to see that our work on this is-sue is resulting in some dialogue at a national level, this is just a starting point.

By the time this issue of Business Matters is pub-lished, the election for the 2010 Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors will have been finalized. It’s unusual to have as much interest in serving on the Board as we had this year … ten candidates running for five positions. I would like to thank all the candidates for allowing their names to stand. It’s a testament to your commit-ment to our business community. I would also like to thank those who are retiring from the Board. Your contribution has been invaluable. It has indeed been a good year!

Respectfully submitted,Dave Hare,2009 President, Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce Letters to the Editor

Dear Chamber,

Regarding the “Phoenix Rising” Fundraising Campaign

The anniversary of the fire that destroyed the Humane Society of Durham Region’s home on De-cember 17, 2008 will soon be here. The Humane Society purchased land last spring to construct a new shelter in Whitby and during the summer, ar-chitectural plans were completed. On October 21, 2009, the Humane Society announced a Fundrais-ing Campaign named “Phoenix Rising” with a goal of raising $1.5 million to build a new animal shel-ter on this land. This shelter will help guarantee the safety and well being of pets in Durham Region for many decades to come.

Your support is critical and we are asking for your help.

We hope to receive financial donations from citizens and businesses and would also welcome other fund raising activities with the Humane So-ciety of Durham named as the proceeds recipient. These donations will help us on our way to starting construction in the Spring of 2010.

Visit www.humanedurham.com and click on “Phoenix Rising” Shelter Updates to view the many opportunities to support this important cause. Some ideas include: Naming Opportunities; Individual Cat Cages; Individual Dog Runs; Ani-mal Kitchen; and Grooming Room. Fundraising events could include: Golf Tournaments; Exercise Classes; Casino Night. Other Donation Opportuni-ties would include building supplies and landscap-ing supplies.

The Humane Society of Durham Region relies solely on donations from the public and money raised through fund raising events and adoptions.

For questions regarding how you can partici-pate in the “Phoenix Rising” Fundraising Cam-paign, please contact Judy Melland-Smith at [email protected].

Thank you in advance of sharing our story with your Membership.

Sincerely,Judy Melland-SmithHSDR Fundraising Chair

Dear Chamber Members,

NEB’s Fun World is running a food drive and needs your support! From now until December 5th, we’ll be collecting any non-perishable food and hygiene items you can spare. Please bring your donations to NEB’s at 1300 Wilson Rd. N. in Oshawa. The items we collect will be distributed by Feed the Need Durham among several chari-ties in our local community. Our goal weight for this drive is 2500 lbs, so any and all help is greatly appreciated and definitely makes a difference! For more information on the NEB’s Food Drive, visit our Upcoming Events section at www.nebsfun-world.com. Learn more about the amazing work of Feed the Need Durham at www.ftnd.ca.

Laura Wright - NEB’s Fun World [email protected] 905-723-2631

By Fred Ball, Past President 1971 – 1972

In view of the fact that my home and office are in the North East part of the City, I quite regularly drive north on Ritson Road, passing one of the Business Icons of our fair City.

Still thriving today, Victor Peacock established Peacock Lumber Ltd in 1939.

Today the business is operated by Victor’s son Claire and two Grandchildren, Glenn and Cara.

Peacock has thrived because its specialty items are not provided by anyone else. It has a unique niche in the supply of wood products today and literally has little competition. If you need a piece of material replaced when remodeling an older home with baseboard and trim from that long ago era, Peacock Lumber will produce that for you. At least 50% of their product sales are of their own manufacture.

In addition to the supply of wood products they also Air Dry and Dry Kiln lumber products for sale to their customers, especially the Furniture Industry.

I have known Claire for most of my life and have always respected his business acumen. I distinctly remember back in 1953 he and three others, George Macgregor, Bob Walker and Dun-can Brodie won the Canadian Schoolboy Curling Championship bringing fame to the City of Os-hawa.

The future of Peacock seems secure because Claire has five Grandchildren who, at the appro-priate time, may enter the family business.

Benefit Facts presents information to help you manage youremployee benefits. Brought to you by your Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan® agent,

Bob Brozina BAA, CLU, ChFC., representing Canada’s premier group plan for small and medium sized business.

Call Bob at (905) 668-1477 ext. #222 or [email protected]

Visit www.oshawachamber.com for the latest news and events.

Page 5: Greater Oshawa Chamber Business Matters€¦ · procurement, installation, repair, proactive network support, 24/7 remote monitoring and project based consulting. ... Diane Munro,

December 2009 Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce – Your Voice of Business Page 5

Letters to the Editor Continued

Dear Chamber Members,

I represent a group of Red Hat Ladies who are holding a convention in Oshawa on April 23 thru 25, 2010. We expect over 200 Red Hat Ladies to attend.

As each of our guests arrives at the convention, they will be given a gift bag containing keepsakes and mementos of the Red Hat Society and the Os-hawa area.

We are looking to you and other community-minded businesses to assist us by donating items for our gift bags. We realize that it may be difficult for a business to donate 200 of a particular item. Donations in any amount will be most appreciated.

lf you need any further information regarding our convention please contact me at 905-432-3991 or e-mail [email protected]

Your thoughtfulness and generosity are greatly appreciated. We look forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience.

Yours cordially,Queen Eleanor RowlandsonHappy Red Hatters, OshawaChapter 57683 Red Hat SocietyChairperson, ‘Glitz ‘N’ Glamour’ 2010

Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce Promo Code:

Tickets can be purcahsed at the General Motors Centre Box Office, by phone at 877.436.8811,or online at www.generalmotorscentre.com. State promo code GSCC for special discount!

SAVE $4/Ticket!Discounted ticket:$47.25 incl. tax!

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SAVE $3/Ticket!Discounted ticket:

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Mickey Mouse ClubhouseLittle EinsteinsHandy Manny

My Friends Tigger & Pooh

Playhouse Disney Live!Jan.21 @ 6:30PM

GSCC

Upcoming Events

21st century. We are delighted that the citizens of Oshawa are going to be a part of this new era in rail travel.”

VIA’s new Oshawa station will be fully-accessi-ble and adjacent to the existing building. VIA is currently studying options for the design of the new station, with the final design to be selected early next year.

The new Oshawa station will replace a structure

originally built by the Canadian National Railway in the 1960s and expanded by VIA in the 1990s. VIA’s previously-announced, $300 million Kings-ton Subdivision Project will add sections of new main line track and will include rearranging the track layout in some locations to increase safety, train frequency and service reliability. In Oshawa, this involves adding one new main line track and a second platform, as well as reconfiguring the track layout. This cannot be done while still making use of the existing station.

“Oshawa’s connection with and affection for the railways goes back to 1856, when the Grand Trunk’s first train steamed into town,” said Mayor Gray. “It brought with it so many opportunities for this city to grow and prosper. I’m convinced these VIA projects can and will do the same today.”

VIA’s Oshawa Station Project is linked with oth-er work now or soon to be underway throughout the Quebec-Windsor Corridor, which generates almost 90% of VIA’s ridership and 75% of its revenue. In combination, these projects will allow for increases in VIA train safety, frequencies, on-time perfor-mance, as well as reductions in travel time.

Major upgrading work is also underway on key elements of VIA’s locomotive and rolling stock fleets for corridor, transcontinental and remote ser-vice. Other infrastructure projects are aimed at im-proving service quality and cost efficiency at other points across VIA’s coast-to-coast route network. These upgrades are part of an unprecedented $923 million capital investment in passenger rail modern-ization and expansion by the Government of Cana-da that is stimulating job creation, skills develop-ment and private sector activity across the country.

New VIA Rail Station For Oshawa

Cont.’d from page 1

The Smart Taxation Alliance, a non-partisan coalition of business leaders and organizations, is pleased to see legislation introduced in the provincial legislature to put into place the tax reform measures announced in the 2009 Ontario budget.

“The changes introduced in Ontario Tax Plan for More Jobs and Growth Act, 2009 will fuel a stronger business investment climate in Ontario, create much needed jobs and accelerate Ontario’s recovery,” says Doug Brooks, FCGA, CEO, Certified General Accountants of Ontario, and member of the Smart Taxation Alliance.

The tax reform package includes personal, small business and corporate income tax rate reduc-tions, sales tax harmonization, and a sales tax rebate for the most vulnerable in society. A recent study by Jack Mintz of the School of Public Policy at the University of Calgary, calculates the impact of the tax reform package as 47 billion dollars in investment and almost 600,000 jobs – this largely as a result of reducing the marginal effective tax rate (METR) on new investment by half.

“The reduction in the METR rate by half makes this one of the most ambitious tax reforms in Ca-nadian history,” says alliance member Len Crispino, President & CEO, Ontario Chamber of Com-merce. “Call it the ‘smart METR’ for Ontario – it’s intelligent tax reform that will make companies more competitive by reducing layers upon layers of taxation, stimulating a more robust economy that benefits all Ontarians.”

The Smart Taxation Alliance includes AGS Automotive, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, the Canadian Council of Grocery Distributors, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, Certified General Accountants of Ontario, Deloitte, Information Technology Association of Canada, Ontario Chamber of Commerce, Ontario Trucking Association, Ontario Road Builders Association, Rail-way Association of Canada, Retail Council of Canada, TD Bank Financial Group, TELUS, Toronto Board of Trade.

Budget Bill Welcome Change To Ontario Tax Regime: Smart Taxation Alliance

Colin Carrie, Member of Parliament for Oshawa; Osh-awa Mayor John Gray, and Mr. Pierre Santoni, VIA Rail’s National Sales Director, announced VIA’s plans for a new station.

Page 6: Greater Oshawa Chamber Business Matters€¦ · procurement, installation, repair, proactive network support, 24/7 remote monitoring and project based consulting. ... Diane Munro,

Page 6 Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce – Your Voice of Business December 2009

DAVID OSHIER, Consultant

Investors Group Financial Services Inc905-434-8400

[email protected]

Discussion Paper:

Dear Fellow Chamber of Commerce member;I don’t want you to make the mistake that most Canadians do, so I’d like to share an idea with you. I call it a win-win financial planning tip.

Assumptions:• You have little or no free cash.• You have no Critical Illness coverage.• You understand that heart attack, stroke, cancer or almost any other disease can

strike anyone at any time. There is the strong likelihood that someone you know is in this position.

Ask yourself…1- How long could my business function without me?2- Would customers remain loyal?3-Could I retain key employees?4-Can my business afford to pay fixed expenses and pay me, even though I’m not there?5- What if I have a partner and they suffered a heart attack, stroke or cancer and couldn’t work?6- What if I can’t work and my partner has to take on my share of the business?7-What if I have to buy out my partner or vice versa due to a critical illness? Where would the money come from to do this?

Solution:• Withdraw enough money from your business each year to cover the cost of the

Critical Illness premium. For example the monthly premium for a 45 year old female

valid for 25 years, and

• If you don’t suffer a critical illness within that time, all your premiums will be returned. However, if you do need the insurance you will receive a onetime cheque in the amount of $200,000.

• Call me…let’s talk about this…it’s that important!

non smoker would be approximately $258 for a $200,000 policy. This policy is …..(Here’s the win – win part)….

with over 30 years private business experience working with people….just like you

Member of Toastmaster’s International2009 Oshawa Chamber of Commerce Volunteer of the Year recipient

Chamber Members Curling For A Cause!

Thank you to Petley-Hare Insurance Brokers for their sponsorship at the Curling “Fun” Spiel on Wednesday, November 4, 2009 at the Oshawa Golf & Curling Club. Pictured from left to right are 2009 Chamber President Dave Hare, Shelley Allin, Debbie Miller and Richard Hall all of Petley-Hare Insur-ance.

This team had a great time at the “Fun” Spiel at the Oshawa Golf & Curling Club. Pictured from left to right are Andrew Stevenson of AMG Sales, Greg Lockhart, Scott Wilson and Fabio Mazzotta.

These ladies were on fire at the “Fun” Spiel held at the Oshawa Golf & Curl-ing Club. This “Pretty In Pink” team consisted of Andi Kelsey, Susan Caswell, Susan Jantzi and Janice O’Neil.

The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce “Fun” Spiel was designed for members to have fun and network and this was a very successful afternoon for all. Pictured from left to right are Jade Long of PropertyGuys.ca, Linda Grieco of PR Engineering Ltd., Paul Wilson of Investor’s Group and Jackie Fraser of PR Engineering Ltd.

At the “Fun” Spiel on November 4, 2009, team Fraser/Neal consisted of Erik Fraser of Neal Mara Fraser, Barristers & Solicitors, Kristen Fraser of BDC, Heather Mara and Kevin Mara of Neal Mara Fraser, Barristers & Solicitors.

You didn’t need to be a curler to enjoy the afternoon of fun, curling and net-working at the Oshawa Golf & Curling Club on November 4. Pictured here from left to right are Don Alford, Dave Stamp of Bayshore Home Health, Denise Alford of Denise Alford – Life Success Consultant and John Sturrup of JS2 Marketing & Communications.

Thank you to CRCS Disaster Kleenup for their sponsorship at the Curling “Fun” Spiel. Pictured from left to right are Steve Thwaites of CRCS Disaster Kleenup, Dave Meadwell of Meadwell, Mowat and Fennell, Cris Douglas of CRCS Disaster Kleenup and Ron Fennell of Meadwell, Mowat and Fennell.

Page 7: Greater Oshawa Chamber Business Matters€¦ · procurement, installation, repair, proactive network support, 24/7 remote monitoring and project based consulting. ... Diane Munro,

December 2009 Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce – Your Voice of Business Page 7

Holiday Celebrations

Enjoy your Christmas Celebration

Get A Full Start To Your Christmas Shopping with

ALL DAY BREAKFAST / LUNCH / DINNER

10 Bond Street West, Oshawa • 905-721-0137

Hours: Monday to Sunday – 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

The Best Philly Cheese Steak and Our Famous

Peamael Bacon & Eggs Served Fresh Everyday.

Looking for a Christmas giftwith a British flair?

UK Giftware • Imported British Food • Retro Buttons Key Rings • Jewellery (by Celtic Fair) • Football Badges

Coronation Street Souveniers • Books • Magnets • Board Games

905-720-1919Located at 13 King Street West in the walkway

www.parabooks.ca

WE CAN HELP! Let us look after the details and bring you food you will be proud to serve!

Are You Responsible For Planning & Booking This Year’s Christmas Party?

M&G PASTA WORKS DELI & CATERING LTD. 312 Stevenson Road North, Oshawa • Voice: 905.728.6754 • Fax: 905.728.6518

CHECK OUT OUR MENUS AT www.mgpastaworks.ca

? !!

Have a safe and Happy Holiday! BETTER SERVICEBETTER CHOICEBETTER QUALITY

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESSES BY

SHOPPING LOCALLY!

New Year’s Eve Gala - Two Seatings - Book Now!Open New Year’s Day

OPEN Christmas Eve

‘til 8PM

OPEN Christmas Day

1PM - 8PM

CLOSED Boxing Day

OPEN New Year’s Day

Page 8: Greater Oshawa Chamber Business Matters€¦ · procurement, installation, repair, proactive network support, 24/7 remote monitoring and project based consulting. ... Diane Munro,

Page 8 Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce – Your Voice of Business December 2009

Members In the NewsMembers In the News

Team Canada Black Belt Institute Celebrates 10 Year AnniversaryThe Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce extends congratulations to Edward Comeau and his team from Team Canada Black Belt Institute

for being invited by the Toronto Argonauts to perform Karate demonstrations during the half-time show at the Rogers Centre in front of 25,000 people on August 14th. Co-founder Sensei Edward Comeau extended his thanks to Oshawa, stating, “Your confidence, loyalty and support has made this 10th Anniversary year absolutely stellar.”

The Royal Canadian Navy On Shore Leave

Recognize the man in the middle? That is none other than our Chamber President, Dave Hare who is surrounded by members of the Royal Canadian Navy in Victoria BC while out for dinner during the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting. The sailors where on a mission to win a Rubik’s Cube competition during some well deserved short leave.

Project PinkFrom November 13th to December 18th Buster Rhino’s will be

holding a fundraising challenge aptly named “Project Pink” in con-junction with several other businesses and people in Ontario.

The goal is to sell 1500 sandwiches at Buster Rhino’s during this time and if they reach their target, owner Darryl Koster will dye his hair pink for the month of January...and happily donate 50 from each sandwich sold to the Breast Cancer Society.

If Buster Rhino’s sells 2500 sandwiches, the Corporate Chef at Buster Rhino’s will also dye his hair pink and increase the donation from .50 per sandwich to .50 for every meal sold during the Challenge. Visit Buster Rhino’s and grab a sandwich for the cause. For more in-formation, visit www.busterrhinos.com.

www.grandviewcc.ca

16 teams participated in a Mexican themed day of fun and friendship, raising over $11,000 for Grandview Children’s Foundation. Alfie Latanski and Soul Heart, compliments of 4realmusic got everyone into the groove to enjoy an authentic luncheon compliments of Los Cabos Cantina and Grill.

All proceeds support Grandview’s unique programs for Durham Region children and youth with special needs. Grandview provides a range of therapy services for more than 4,500 children, youth and their families each year.

Thank you to our generous supporters…

‘Curling for Grandview Kids’8th Annual

Canada Small Business Financing Program

Small businesses are an important part of Canada’s economy, but they face unique challenges when seeking financing. Here’s a program that members should know about: the Canada Small Business Financ-ing Program. This program makes it easier for small businesses to ob-tain loans from financial institutions by sharing the risks with lenders.

Eligibility includes small businesses operating for profit in Canada with gross annual revenues of $5 million or less. Farming businesses, not-for-profit organizations, or charitable and religious organizations are not eligible under this program. Loans can be used to finance up to 90% of the cost of: purchasing or improving land, real property or immovables; purchasing leasehold improvements or improving leased property; or purchasing or improving new or used equipment.

Financing is available up to a maximum of $500 000 for any one business, of which no more than $350 000 can be used for purchasing leasehold improvements or improving leased property and purchasing or improving new or used equipment.

Financial institutions deliver the program and make all credit de-cisions. Small businesses must visit their local bank, credit union or caisse populaire to obtain a loan under the program.

For more on this program call toll free: 866-959-1699, email: [email protected] or visit: www.ic.gc.ca/csbfa.

Did you know…71% of Canadians state they would purchase or use the services of a company supporting the blood program. (Ipsos Reid)

This year, show the Durham Region your company cares by sharing your health and vitality through blood donation. Start your commit-ment to save lives by making blood donation part of your company holiday gift plan. Foster life-saving goodwill among employees when you give blood together as a Canadian Blood Services’ Partners for Life team. Canadian Blood Services will proudly acknowledge your dedication on its Partners for Life board in the Oshawa permanent blood donor clinic.

“Did you know that a single donation of blood can save three lives?” commented Janine Smith, Community Development Coordi-nator, Oshawa Permanent Clinic, Canadian Blood Services.

Blood donations differ from financial ones, because they directly help patients being treated for cancer, during surgery, or after serious accidents. Become a Partners for Life organization today.

To learn more, or to become a Partners for Life member, please call Janine Smith, 905-579-6138 or visit www.blood.ca/partnersforlife. If you can donate blood please do so. Call 1-888-2-DONATE to make an appointment to give.

Wrap Yourself In Red This Holiday Season

Winning TeamCongratulations to Gord Bartley’s team who won first prize at the

Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce “Fun” Spiel. The prize was $500.00 to be donated to their charity of choice, the Durham Region Cancer Society. Pictured in this presentation from left to right are 2009 President Dave Hare of Petley-Hare Insurance and sponsors of this event, Doug Solid, Fred Taylor, Ron Moore, Gord Bartley of Strategic Sales.ca and Cris Douglas of CRCS Disaster Kleeup.

Real Estate Sales Still ActiveThe Durham Region Association of REALTORS® (DRAR) report-

ed 344 sales in the first half of November ‘09, an increase of 50% from the 230 sales reported mid-month in November ‘08.

“The average selling price continued to show growth with an in-crease of 5% ($284,085) from the $270,790 recorded at the same time last year,” said Debbie Dawson, 2009 DRAR Presi-dent. With sales soaring and with active inventory down 42% (1677) from the 2884 recorded mid November ‘08; the market continues to favour the seller.” For more information visit www.DurhamRealEstate.org.

Page 9: Greater Oshawa Chamber Business Matters€¦ · procurement, installation, repair, proactive network support, 24/7 remote monitoring and project based consulting. ... Diane Munro,

December 2009 Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce – Your Voice of Business Page 9

The Brick Mattress Store Oshawa785 Taunton Rd., EOshawa, ON L1H 7K5Phone: (905) 438-9009Mattress/Furniture - RetailPeter Bamrah

Cedarcroft Place649 King St.Oshawa, ON L1H 8B9Phone: (905) 723-9490Fax: (905) 723-0666Retirement ResidenceLisa Pearson

FastSigns943 Clonsilla AvePeterborough, ON K9J 5Y2Phone: (705) 775-0400Fax: (705) 775-0402SignsLorne Kelsey

Freedom 55 Financial - Cindy Sharkey1465 Pickering Pkwy., Ste 300 Pickering, ON L1V 7G7Phone: (905) 831-3600Financial ServicesCindy Sharkey

Karma Lounge & Nightclub394 Simcoe St., SOshawa, ON L1N 4J4Phone: (905) 404-2009Restaurants & ClubsNatasa Balazic-Bonnevie

Leeson Mechanical Services (Durham) Ltd.15 Colborne St., EOshawa, ON L1G 1M1Phone: (905) 579-9009Fax: (905) 579-9011Mechanical ContractorsGeorge Wilson

Naturopathic Institute of Advanced Medicine122 Simcoe St., N.Oshawa, ON L1G 4S5Phone: (905) 743-0427Fax: (905) 743-9259Naturopath - Reg’dLeigh Arseneau BSC. (Hon), ND

SHOCKCIRCUIT1304 Lakefield Crt.Oshawa, ON L1J 3Y6Phone: (905) 431-1914Web DesignJustin Proulx

Steenburg Auto Sales Ltd.480 Taunton Rd., E.Oshawa, ON L1H 7K5Phone: (905) 436-1000Fax: (905) 436-1000Automobile Sales & ServiceRay Steenburg

UOIT - Management Development Centre2000 Simcoe St., NOshawa, ON L1H 7K4Phone: (905) 721-8668Fax: (905) 721-3167Training - ManagementBetty Khattab

New Members

ROBERTS, MARLOWE, JACKSON, JACKSON AND ASSOCIATES

Chartered [email protected] www.rmjj.ca

22 Stevenson Rd. S. Oshawa L1J 5L9Tel: (905)-579-5531 EXT 231 (905)-427-0322

Fax: 905-579-4624

NATIONAL

FLEET

SERVICE

Oshawa TIRE & AUTO CENTRE

245 King St. West, Oshawa 905-725-6511

Corner Park Road & King Street

Presented by Durham CARSTAR andthe Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce

Durham CARSTAR Collision Centre660 Drake Street, Oshawa, Ontario L1H 6L3

905-723-0221 www.carstar.ca

December 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 – The Business Advisory Centre Durham (BACD) holds one-on-one consultations for Starting a Business and Building and Growing your Business every Thursday. To register for a 45 minute session, email [email protected] call 905-668-4949 ext.221 or visit www.bacd.ca

December 4 / April 16 – The Management Development Centre at UOIT hosts a series of “Performance Management” workshops that are designed to enhance the managerial effectiveness and leadership ability of today’s professional. To register, visit www.businessandit.uoit.ca/mdc.

December 8 – The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce hosts a Christmas Wine and Cheese, Officers’ Mess – Ontario Regiment 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Table Top Displays are available. Please bring an unwrapped toy, non-perishable food item or toiletry item for local charities! For more information or to register, visit www.oshawachamber.com.

December 10 – Durham Professional Advisory Group hosts networking meeting at the Officers’ Mess – Ontario Regiment 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Keynote Speaker: Christina Caney, FCSI, CFP, Ch.P. Strategic Wealth Director, Designation & Client Development. Immediately following the meeting the group meets for an informal dinner at Avanti Trattioria. For more information or to register, visit www.oshawachamber.com.

December 10 – The Business and Professional Women of Durham will host its Annual Christmas Social for networking and Christmas Cheer! BPW members Past and Present are invited to attend. For Reservations, please contact Kim Beatty by December 4th, 2009 at 905-579-8184 or by email to: [email protected].

December 14 – The Skill Path Seminars presents “How to Excel at Managing and Supervising People” at Harmony Creek Golf Centre, 1000 Bloor St. E., Oshawa, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. For further information or to find more seminars, contact 1-800-873-7545 or visit www.skillpath.ca

December 18 / April 30 – The Management Development Centre at UOIT hosts a series of “Organizational Change Management” workshops that are designed to develop leadership skills necessary for effective change management. To register, visit www.businessandit.uoit.ca/mdc.

January 13 – The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce hosts a Lunch & Learn at the Chamber Boardroom. 44 Richmond St. W. Suite 100, Oshawa, 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. “Speed Networking”. This ‘speed-dating’ style allows you to promote your business one-on-one to each person in the room. This is a free, member’s only benefit. For more information or to register, visit www.oshawachamber.com.

January 14-15 – The Management Development Centre at UOIT hosts a two day workshop “Accounting for Non-Financial Managers” providing tools to understand how accounting systems work and help improve business profitability. To register, visit www.businessandit.uoit.ca/mdc.

January 18 – The Management Development Centre at UOIT hosts a one day workshop “Effective Communications” providing tools to understand effective communication styles and how to adapt. To register, visit www.businessandit.uoit.ca/mdc.

January 20 – The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce hosts Women in Business at El Stavros Steak & Seafood, 557 King St., E., Oshawa, from 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Keynote Speaker: Nikki Henderson, Strut Nouveau. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, visit www.oshawachamber.com.

January 21 – The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce hosts a Breakfast with the Durham Regional Chair, Roger Anderson at the Holiday Inn Oshawa Whitby Conference Centre, 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, visit www.oshawachamber.com.

January 21 – The Skill Path Seminars presents “Coaching and Teambuilding Skills for Managers and Supervisors” at Harmony Creek Golf Centre, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. For further information or to find more seminars, contact 1-800-873-7545 or visit www.skillpath.ca.

February 9 – The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce hosts A Tasting Evening, at Parkwood Estate, 270 Simcoe St., N., Oshawa, 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Sponsored by Neal Mara Fraser. Table top displays are available. A great way to promote your product or service to the business community. Pre-registration is required. For more information or to register, visit www.oshawachamber.com.

February 22 – The Management Development Centre at UOIT hosts a one day workshop “Practical Negotiation & Influencing Skills” guiding you to the path of success with proven skills and techniques. To register, visit www.businessandit.uoit.ca/mdc.

Since 1962

500 Wentworth Street, East, Oshawa

Durham Region’s Largest Selection ofNEW & USED

Office Furniture & EquipmentSales • Service • Leasing

www.jenkinsequip.com

905-728-7591

Join the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce Member To Member [M2M] Discount Program and utilize your most important Chamber of Commerce partnership...your fellow members.

The M2M program is an opportunity for Chamber members to reach out to over 900 member businesses by providing special discounts for products or services directed exclusively to fellow Chamber members.

The M2M Discount Directory will be updated monthly and will be accessible through the Chamber’s website. It will be promoted in the monthly Business Matters, Business Matter eNews and to all new members in the Chamber’s welcome package.

Check out the M2M discount program at www.oshawachamber.com.

Member To Member Discount Program

To view all of the new members who have joined the Chamber since the Business Directory was published on April 1, 2009 please visit www.oshawachamber.com and click on Member Services.

All Tax Services Inc.Alzheimer Society of Durham Region

AquaSeal Basement Waterproofing Contractors

Bell World - Excell Communications

Boldstar Infrared Services Inc.BrimacombeBuckingham Meat MarketCanaventsCarolyn’s Beauty Supply & Salon Ltd.

Ceramica FlooringDurham Deaf ServicesDurham OpticalEnterphase Child & Family Services Inc.

General Motors CentreGeneral PrintersHalloway Development Limited/Valiant Rental Properties Limited

Harmony Creek Golf Centre Ltd.Jewellery by Sanders Inc.Kingsway College

Lakeridge Health OshawaLasting Expressions Floral Designs With Flair

Managhan Design Solutions Inc.McRae Roofing Inc.Monroe Auto Glass & Custom Tint

Motel 6 CanadaNeal Mara Fraser, Barristers & Solicitors

OctaviensOshawa Stevedoring Inc.Paraphernalia Books ‘N’ StuffQuality Suites WhitbyR & B Auto Service

Saberlink Imaging Inc.Same Day Blinds & DrapesSandy Cook Marketing & Design

Southwoods Bed & BreakfastSteve Moss Home Renovation & Repair

Studio JewellersTeam Canada Black Belt Institute

Total Reflex Health CentreVentura Towing Inc.YWCA Durham

~ Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce ~Board of Directors and Staff

We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and thank you for your support in the past year.

Page 10: Greater Oshawa Chamber Business Matters€¦ · procurement, installation, repair, proactive network support, 24/7 remote monitoring and project based consulting. ... Diane Munro,

Page 10 Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce – Your Voice of Business December 2009

UPCOMINGEVENTSTO REGISTER FOR A CHAMBER EVENT PLEASE FAX IN YOUR REGISTRATION FORM TO 905.432.1259, EMAIL TO [email protected]

OR PHONE 905.728.1683 TO HAVE A REGISTRATION FORM SENT TO YOU.

N E T W O R K I N G A T A G L A N C E

For complete details on these events, see the flyers in this edition of Business Matters or call the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce at 905-728-1683 to have a flyer emailed or faxed to you.

For more details or to register please visit www.oshawachamber.com

Wednesday, January 13, 201011:45 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.Chamber Boardroom, 44 Richmond St. W. Suite 100, OshawaThis is a FREE, MEMBERS ONLY event!

“Speed Networking”This ‘speed-dating’ stype allows you to promote your business one-on-one to each person in the room.

***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED***

PROPERTY RESTORATIONSPECIALISTS

FIRE WIND WATER MOULD

10-2020 Wentworth St., Whitby, ON L1N 9A8Fax: 905-728-3179 Email: [email protected]

24 Hour Emergency Service

905-728-9380www.winmar.ca

Coming through for you!

Auto Service ExpertsAt Midas we offer more than just the mufflers that made us famous.  

And, our work is backed by the famous Midas guarantee.

Brakes • Exhaust • Tires • Steering Alignment • Lube, Oil & Filter Tune-ups • Factory Scheduled Maintenance• Air Conditioning Shocks & Struts • Fuel Injection Service • Batteries • Starters

Visit the Oshawa Midas store for details.460 Taunton Rd. E., Oshawa905-404-1555© 2003 Midas International Corporation

Christmas Wine & CheeseTuesday, December 8, 20095:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.Officers’ Mess – Ontario Regiment, 53 Simcoe Street North, Oshawa

Members: $23.00 (Includes GST)Prospective Members: $32.00 (Includes GST)Table Top Displays are available at $95.00 (Includes GST)Table Tops are limited so register today!

Please bring an unwrapped toy,

non-perishable food item or toiletry item for local

charities!

***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED***

Sponsored by

THE 2nd ANNUAL CHALLENGEWednesday, March 3, 2010

4:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.NEB’s Fun World, 1300 Wilson Rd., N., Oshawa

Sponsored by:

Are you up for the CHALLENGE? Enter a team today! No Team…No Problem…We can place you on a team.

There are 3 separate events including, Bowling, Go Karting, and Air Tag. Network, Teamwork, Funwork … Everyone Wins!

INDIVIDUAL EVENT SPONSORSHIPS ARE AVAILABLE. ***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED***

Women In BusinessWednesday, January 20, 201012:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.El Stavros Steak & Seafood, 557 King St., E., Oshawa

Keynote Speaker: Nikki Henderson, Strut Nouveau Members: $30.00 (Includes GST)Prospective Members: $40.00 (Includes GST)

***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED***

REGIONAL CHAIR BREAKFAST

Keynote Speaker: ROGER ANDERSON,

Chair, Regional Municipality of Durham

Thursday, January 21, 20107:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Holiday Inn Oshawa Whitby Conference Centre1011 Bloor Street East, Oshawa

Members: $28.00 Prospective Members: $38.00

***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED***

88 Centre Street North, Suite 1, Oshawa905-571-1511 • 1-800-461-6756

Sponsored By:

Members: $24.50Prospective Members: $36.50Table Top Displays: $96.00 (Prices Include GST)

Table Top Displays are limited and for MEMBERS ONLY!***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED***

A great way to promote your product or service to the business community!

A TASTING EVENINGTuesday, February 9, 20105:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Parkwood Estate270 Simcoe St., N., Oshawa

THE 2nd ANNUAL CHALLENGE

BO

WLI

NG

GO

KA

RTIN

G

AIR TAG

Congratulations to Andrew Stevenson of AMG Sales who won the business card draw during the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce “Fun” Spiel held at the Oshawa Golf & Curling Club. Presenting 2 Round Trip First Class Tickets anywhere on the VIA Rail Quebec/Windsor Corridor are President Dave Hare (left) and Cris Douglas (Right). Congratulations Andrew!

Sponsored By:

2009 Business Excellence

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Page 11: Greater Oshawa Chamber Business Matters€¦ · procurement, installation, repair, proactive network support, 24/7 remote monitoring and project based consulting. ... Diane Munro,

December 2009 Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce – Your Voice of Business Page 11

As the end of the year approaches, many people turn their attention to income tax planning.

Ideally, tax planning should be considered on an ongoing basis throughout the year as part of an overall financial plan. All taxpayers should review their particular situation regularly to ensure that they’ve structured their financial affairs to minimize tax as much as possible. In particular, any major transactions should be examined in advance to ensure that tax considerations are taken into account.

However, even if you haven’t actively monitored your tax situation throughout the year, there are still a number of steps you can take before year-end to minimize your taxes for 2009. Many planning points are also available to individuals who carry on business.

Business income

Pay reasonable salaries to family members before year-end

If your spouse or children work for you, consider paying them salaries. Salaries paid reduce your income and are taxed in their hands, possibly at lower marginal tax rates than if the income had been paid to you. They also provide family members with earned income for RRSP contributions.

Any salary paid must be reasonable given the services performed. A good rule of thumb is to pay them what you would have paid a third party. A record should be kept of the time actually spent and the services actually performed.

Also, whenever you pay

salaries to your spouse or children, ensure that withholdings for income tax, Canada Pension Plan (CPP), Employment Insurance (EI) (where an exemption is not available) and any applicable provincial payroll taxes are remitted as required. The salary and the amounts withheld for 2009 must be reported on T4 slips, which are due on or before March 1, 2010 (as February 28, 2010 falls on a Sunday).

Purchase capital assets before year-end

If you’re planning to purchase capital assets in the near future, consider doing so before the end of your fiscal year. If the assets are acquired and in use before year-end, you can claim one-half the usual CCA rate. Even if you’re in a loss position this year, purchasing the asset now will allow a full year’s CCA claim next year. Bear in mind that title to the asset must be acquired and it must be available for use in order to claim CCA.

If you carry on your business through a corporation, there are even more planning points available to you.

Owner-manager considerations

Pay dividends from your corporation

In certain situations, a corporation can be used to split income with family members. For instance, if your spouse or children, who are 18 years of age and older, subscribe for shares of your corporation at fair market value using their own funds, they can receive dividends from the corporation out of its after-tax profits and you can split income. Dividends paid by the corporation before its year-end could generate a tax refund on its corporate tax return, if it has previously earned investment

income on which it paid tax. If your corporation has a year-end early in 2010, say January 31st, you could declare a dividend in January, which would generate a tax refund for the corporation on its current return. The recipients of the dividend would then be taxable on their 2010 returns which are due April 30, 2011.

There could be a problem with this type of planning if you’ve loaned or transferred property to the corporation. In this case, you must ensure that the company maintains its status as a Small Business Corporation (SBC). Otherwise, you could be subject to an imputed interest penalty if your spouse or children are shareholders.

Income splitting with minor children is more difficult because of the income splitting tax. Under these rules, minor children are taxed at top personal rates on dividends received from your corporation, as well as certain types of business income.

You should review your corporation’s status throughout the year, and again at year-end in conjunction with tax planning for you and your family. If dividends are required, they should be properly documented and recorded in the company’s minute book. Also, for any dividends paid in 2009, the corporation must prepare and file T5 slips to report the dividends on or before March 1, 2010 (as February 28, 2010 falls on a Sunday).

If your corporation had business income after 2000 in excess of the federal small business limit or received public company dividends after 2005, the corporation may be able to pay an eligible dividend. These dividends are subject to a lower tax rate and must be designated as eligible. As these rules are fairly complex and strict documentation rules apply, you should consult with your advisor before declaring dividends to

take advantage of the eligible dividend rules.

Establish your salary/dividend mix from the corporation

If you draw funds from your corporation throughout the year for personal expenses, you should determine whether these amounts will be characterized as salary or dividends before year-end. Otherwise, the funds withdrawn could be treated as a shareholder loan, unless certain conditions are met. A shareholder loan would be included in your income without the benefit of the dividend tax credit, and without being deductible to the corporation as salary. Also, it would not be considered earned income to you for RRSP purposes.

In general terms, if your company earns active income that is less than the small business limit ($500,000 effective January 1, 2009, prorated for non-calendar year-ends), it’s usually better to declare dividends, the payment of which can offset the shareholder loan. For federal and provincial tax purposes, active business income up to $500,000 will be taxed at the small business tax rate.

In the past, where active income exceeded the small business limit, the general rule of thumb was to have the corporation pay you a salary or bonus to reduce its income to the small business limit as the total corporate and personal tax associated with retaining excess income and paying it out as a dividend to you exceeded the tax cost of a bonus (referred to as a “tax integration cost”). At the same time, not paying a bonus resulted in a tax deferral, as general corporate income tax rates on income retained by the corporation are lower than the top personal tax rate. Despite the deferral, paying a bonus was often the rule of thumb as the integration cost was just too high.

However, in recent years, beneficial tax reductions have made this rule of thumb more difficult to apply. Also, the changes to the taxation of dividend rules for dividends paid after 2005 either partially or fully remove the integration cost where corporate business income in excess of the small business limit can be paid out as an eligible dividend.

In our current tax environment, owner-manager remuneration strategies are being further complicated by changing tax rates. In particular, there will be significant reductions in the federal corporate tax rate (until 2012) while the personal tax rate on eligible dividends will be increased. As a result of this, over the next few years, integration will work best for business income taxed at the top corporate rate and paid out as an eligible dividend, only where the

dividend is paid in the same year. In cases where the dividend is being deferred to a subsequent year, integration will not work as well and there will be an integration cost, as the tax rate on eligible dividends is increasing. Therefore, consideration should be given to paying out an eligible dividend this year while the tax rate on eligible dividends is lower.

Of course, there are other considerations to make in the salary versus dividend decision. Drawing dividends alone will not provide you with earned income for RRSP purposes. Also, if you have no other sources of earned income and your spouse works and earns more than you, neither one of you will be eligible to claim child care expenses. Child care expense deductions are generally limited to 2/3rds of the earned income of the lower income spouse. Therefore, you should ensure that you receive enough salary to allow a maximum RRSP contribution and a claim for child care expenses. Another important consideration is whether your corporation is engaged in scientific research and experimental development, as beneficial tax rules are phased out where a corporation’s (or associated group’s) taxable income for the prior year exceeds the federal small business limit. Finally, where a corporation begins to retain high-rate income, its tax instalment base will increase at the same time additional income tax for the prior year becomes payable, which could create a short-term cash flow issue.

Given the numerous factors to consider in establishing the optimal salary/dividend mix, specific advice will be important .

Consider paying interest on shareholder loans

If you’ve paid yourself sufficient salary to maximize your RRSP and family’s child care deduction claim and your corporation still has more than $500,000 of active business income, you could consider charging interest on any loans you’ve made to the company. The interest would be deductible to the corporation and would not be subject to provincial payroll taxes (the decision on whether to pay interest or an eligible dividend would be similar to the decision above for bonuses).

To be deductible to the corporation, the interest must be charged at a reasonable rate. Also, there must be a legal obligation to pay interest established in advance. Therefore, if you intend to charge interest on your loans to the corporation, you should establish the terms at the beginning of the year. It should be noted that where a minor child or a trust for a minor child makes a loan in support of a business carried on by a relative, the interest will be subject to the income splitting tax (or kiddie tax).

Consider planning to reduce your corporation’s taxable capital before year-end

Depending on their size, corporations can be subject to provincial capital taxes. The jurisdictions vary in how they calculate taxable capital and the rate at which the tax is charged. Note that some jurisdictions have reduced, and in some cases eliminated, capital tax. For those jurisdictions which continue to levy capital tax, taxable capital usually includes share capital and debt and may require some tax based adjustments. All jurisdictions that impose capital tax provide an allowance which reduces taxable capital for certain specified investments.

There are a number of very simple steps that can be taken prior to year-end to reduce capital tax. For instance, using excess cash to pay off some debts may reduce your taxable capital.

You should note that Canadian-Controlled Private Corporations (CCPCs) with taxable capital in excess of certain limits (on an associated group basis) will begin to lose access to the small business deduction and the enhanced 35% investment tax credit for scientific research and experimental development. Taxable capital for the prior year is generally used in determining how much of these benefits are lost. Access to the small business deduction is eliminated when taxable capital reaches $15 million and access to the enhanced 35% investment tax credit is eliminated when taxable capital reaches $50 million. The $50 million amount is applicable for taxation years ending on or after February 26, 2008 and is subject to proration for taxation years that include this date (previously the amount was $15 million). The “clawback” of these benefits represents another reason why capital tax planning should become an important part of your year-end tax review.

Purchase older automobiles from your corporation

If you use an older corporate-owned automobile for personal use, you may want to purchase it at fair market value. The standby charge benefit included in your income is based on the original cost of the automobile, no matter how old it is. Buying the older automobile now will ensure that you won’t be taxed on a large automobile benefit next year.

Please contact me directly at 905-576-3430 ext. 211 to discuss any of the foregoing in more detail.

This material is general in nature and should not be relied upon to replace the requirement for specific professional advice.

This article is an excerpt from the Tax Factor 2009-03, a publication by BDO Dunwoody LLP © BDO Dunwoody 2009.

Submitted by Clyde Catton, B.B.A., C.A., Tax Partner, BDO Dunwoody LLP Chartered Accountants and Advisors, Oshawa Executive Centre.

www.bdo.ca ASSURANCE | ACCOUNTING | TAXATION | ADVISORY SERVICES

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Year-End Tax Planning for Business Owners

Page 12: Greater Oshawa Chamber Business Matters€¦ · procurement, installation, repair, proactive network support, 24/7 remote monitoring and project based consulting. ... Diane Munro,

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