MAY 2021
WITH BRANTFORD • BRANT
Chamber of Commerce Brantford • Brant
2020 Golf Tourna ment pictures co urtesy of
2021 ANNUAL CHAMBER GOLF TOURNAMENT SEE PAGE 18 FOR DETAILS
The One Stop Print Shop For all of your print needs... • Business Cards, • Presentation Folders, • Labels & Stickers, • And much more...
May 2021
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PRESIDENT
Ken McNaughton
McNaughton Agency Inc. The Cooperators
WITH BRANTFORD • BRANT
MAY 2021
1ST VICE PRESIDENT
Paul Bisanti
Lanca Contracting Ltd. 2ND VICE PRESIDENT
Chris Rayfield
Methapharm Inc./ ACIC Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Golf Tournament
TREASURER
Wednesday June 2nd, 2021 Find all the details!
Jacinda Reitsma Conestoga College PAST PRESIDENT
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Paul McCaig
Paulsan Construction DIRECTORS
Angela Adam
Meridian Credit Union
Garnet Lasby
Massilly North America Inc.
Ask a Lawyer
Eat Local
When Shareholders’ Rights and Marital Rights Collide Waterous Holden Amey Hitchon LLP
Joy O’Donnell
Grand Financial Planning
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Trevor Rumble
The Marco Corporation
Eddy Vance
Waterous Holden Amey Hitchon LLP
Sandra Vos
Brant County Federation of Agriculture
Mike Yarek
Financial Feature
Important Questions to Ask Before a Big Home Renovation Forest City Funding
12 Business Excellence Awards Sponsors Tuesday May 30th, 2021 1:00 – 2:30 p.m.
Mike Yarek Dodge Chrysler Ltd. SECRETARY TO THE BOARD CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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David Prang
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LIAISONS
Dan McCreary
is published six times a year by the Chamber of Commerce Brantford • Brant
City of Brantford
Marc LaFerriere County of Brant
Michelle Giffin JCI Brantford
David Prang Managing Editor
Leslie Barker Events Coordinator
Greg Evans Advertising
Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com
77 Charlotte Street, Brantford, ON N3T 2W8 Phone: 519-753-2617 • Fax: 519-753-0921 www.brantfordbrantchamber.com Mandate: To be the voice of business that promotes economic growth and prosperity in our community. Publication Agreement # 4076850
May 2021
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Message from the CEO Brantford-Brant is in the Red Zone as Ontario has moved into a third wave, and the vaccine rollout program is continuing to evolve with record numbers being delivered. These are among the many other challenges and opportunities the Chamber is monitoring or working on this spring.
David Prang – CEO Due to print and mailing deadlines, the content of magazines such as InTouch is often developed substantially in advance of the reader picking up the issue. As I write this message, the Ontario budget has just been released, the April 19th federal budget date has been announced, the Chamber’s 2021 AGM is pending, our popular Business Directory has gone to print, the Supreme Court of Canada has ruled that national carbon pricing is constitutional,
With the layer of safe economic recovery in a rapidly changing environment being applied to nearly all activities in 2021, our work is no different. We are looking forward to celebrating our Business Excellence Awards finalists and winners on May 20th, at the premiere business event in our region, proudly presented by BDO Canada. The execution for this event is evolving, and we are planning on a hybrid model that will celebrate our finalists safely in person, while allowing for virtual viewership across our region, and beyond. It is anticipated that hybrid and video integration into events is now “here to stay”, thus we
are planning for more enhancements to all Chamber events in the future. Our popular 54th Annual Golf Tournament arrives a few weeks later on Wednesday June 2nd, and promises to be another fun day of fellowship, networking, and friendship in a safe, outdoors environment. If you haven’t played in the tournament before, golfers of all skill levels are welcomed, the course is set up for fun and low scores, and the emphasis is on having a great day with your business colleagues, and enjoying a meal or two together, safely. Please consider joining us this year!
JOIN US FOR THE 54TH ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT - MORE DETAILS ON PAGE 18
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Millard Rouse & Rosebrugh LLP 96 Nelson Street, Brantford Tel· (519) 759-3511
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Partners: M.J. Dixon, CPA, CA • T. J Leyzer, CPA, CA • R.D. Sciannella CPA, CA, CBV • H.C. Johnston CPA, CA •S.E. Goodwin, CPA, CA T.B. Sinclair, CPA, CA • D.A. Cleary, CPA, CGA, CFI • S.D. Klein, CPA, CA • G.S. Gravett, CPA, CA•S.A. Salole, CPA, CA • J.B. Baetz, CPA, CA R.W. Storoschuk, CPA, CA • S.W. McGaghran, CPA, CA • J.E. Chowhan, CPA, CA • P.E. Merrylees, CPA, CA • J.A. Laporte, CPA, CA R.A. Parker, CPA, CGA, CFI • G.M. Malecki, CPA, CA • Q.E. Bateson-Hotte, CPA, CA Associates: B.Y. Brenneman, CPA, CA A • C.J. Storoschuk, CPA, CA • K.B. Weames, CPA, CA • W.A. Deane, CPA, CA • D.E. Paxton, CPA, CA M.M. Malecki, CPA, CAA • N.T. Nguyen, CPA, CAA • S.C. Dykstra, CPA, CA • Wes E.B. Caldwell, CPA, CA
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May 2021
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High Demand Drives Brantford’s Commercial Real Estate Market has carried over into commercial real estate as well. According to Brantford real estate agent and Chamber member Ken Karakas, as a result of “a shortage of inventory, prices have been driven up”. A current trend to company downsizing, with staff working from home and other factors, has also led to a greater desire for smaller commercial office space.
Owen Portelli Brantford residents are experiencing an unprecedented housing market. Has this momentum carried over to other sectors of the real estate market, including commercial real estate? Price increases in residential real estate are partially attributed to lower inventory against the number of buyers in the market. This trend
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Karakas notes there is “big demand for properties for sale and lease in the industrial sector… and a huge demand for investment properties in all sectors.” One of the largest contributing factors to Brantford’s high commercial real estate prices is an existing lack of available commercial and industrial buildings. Karakas says “(Brantford) has been short of commercial and industrial buildings for some time ... it is an excellent time for sellers that need to sell to get top dollar for their properties … (as) we have been short of land development in all categories.”
Brantford’s commercial real estate market is optimistic with many new development projects working through design and approvals, many of which are infill development and repositioning. Karakas explains that “Brantford has quotas for high density residential, and thus a demand for repositioning of schools that are no longer needed for that purpose and greyfield sites will become more popular soon.” While Brantford’s commercial real estate market remains strong, in order to remain competitive with surrounding markets, Karakas states: “(Brantford) must be more competitive in our commercial property taxes.” Market demand is consistent throughout most sectors of real estate right now, including commercial and industrial lands in Brantford. With the right steps being taken, the future of commercial real estate looks bright in Brantford.
May 2021
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Membership Corner
JANUARY 2021
MARCH 2021
Chamber of Commerce
T Brantford • Brant TFOR D • BRAN WITH BRAN WITH BRANTFORD • BRANT
Chamber of Commerce Brantford • Brant
BELL COMMUNITY BUILDER AWARD
Greg Evans
Remotivating and Refocusing in a New World The COVID narrative is stale; how do we move forward? It’s now been fourteen months that we’ve been in some form of quarantine, and we’re all tired of talking about it. Like it or not, life likely won’t ever quite be the same as it was before and it’s time to switch from a reactive mindset to a proactive one. Whether you’re an independent worker doing business from home, part of a team, or even someone who oversees staff – make it your mission to find ways to help your teammates, customers, and employees remotivate and refocus.
If you’re the boss, consider doing something special for your team to thank them for working so hard and to keep that motivation going moving forward. A great team is what sets businesses apart from the rest; don’t forget to make sure they know that their hard work is appreciated with a porch drop-off with some gift cards, snacks, or other essentials. If you’re part of a team, check in with some of your teammates you don’t often interact with; hearing a new voice and getting to chat might be what you both need to help break out of the monotony and destress a little. If you’re customer-facing, consider doing something a little extra for your clients as a thank-you for their support and patience during what has become a different experience for you both. Everyone has had to change how they operate in some form or another, and it’s important to make sure to let your customers know you recognize and appreciate that. The pandemic has changed how we all have to operate, but it doesn’t have to define our businesses. Finding new ways to stay focused and motivated has never been more important, so spend a few minutes thinking about ways to keep things fresh for everyone who helps you continue to be successful.
ENTERPRISE BRANT ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR AWARD
WATEROUS HOLDEN AMEY HITCHON COMPANY OF THE YEAR AWARD
AUGHTON MEET KEN MCN IDENT YOUR NEW PRESSEE PAGE 9
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2021 BUSINESS EXCELLENCE FINALISTS photo by Jeanette
BE PROACTIVE
ATTENTION
ADVERTISERS! show off your work & team
The deadline for the July 2021 edition of InTouch is
June 1, 2021
BOOK YOUR AD TODAY! Contact Greg at 519-753-2617 or email: greg@brcc.ca
Membership Renewals
Renewals occur on the anniversary of the date a member joined. The following represents those renewals that have occurred since the previous issue of In Touch.
■ Ad Plus Promotions Inc. ■ Alpha Micro Tech Inc ■ Annette Minutillo-Century 21 Heritage House Ltd. ■ Anytime Fitness-Brantford ■ Ardency Corporation ■ Arnold Anderson Sport Fund ■ Beattie Animal Hospital (P.C.) ■ Best Western Brantford Hotel & Conference Centre ■ Betco Products Inc. ■ BIA-Downtown Brantford Business Improvement Area ■ BINPAK Compactors (Modern Waste Products Inc.) ■ BioDesign Prosthetics & Orthotics Inc. ■ Blue Chip Inspections ■ BML Roofing Systems Inc. ■ Steve Bolton ■ Brant County Federation of Agriculture ■ Brant County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
■ Brant Food For Thought ■ Brant Renewable Energy ■ Brant United Way ■ The Brantford Club ■ Brantford Golf and Country Club Ltd. ■ Brantford Home Builders Association ■ Brantford Hydraulics Inc. ■ Brantford Symphony Orchestra Association Inc. ■ Brantford Toyota ■ The Brantford-Brant Business Resource Centre ■ Brokerlink ■ Harold E. Brown Auto Service Centre ■ C. J. Cooper Automotive ■ Cainsville Tire Discounter ■ Century 21 Grand Realty Inc. - Steve Assel ■ The James F. Boughner Foundation Children’s Safety Village of Brant ■ Clik-Clik Systems Inc. ■ Community Resource & Employment Service (Brantford) ■ Conestoga College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning
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May 2021
Obbink
PRESENTING PARTNER: BDO — SEE PAGE 12
■ Cornerstone Capital Financial Group ■ Coudenys Management Systems Inc. ■ Crabby Joe’s Bar & Grill ■ Devlins Country Bistro & Catering ■ DQ Brant ■ Elastochem Specialty Chemicals Inc. ■ Energy+ Inc. ■ Enviro-Cor Enterprises Ltd. ■ Fen Industrial Inc. ■ FirstOntario Credit Union ■ Forest of Flowers-Brantford ■ Freedom House ■ GK York Management Services Inc. ■ Glenhyrst Art Gallery of Brant ■ Grand River Conservation Authority Brant Park ■ Grand Valley Construction Association ■ Grand Wellness Centre ■ H.F. Crawford Plumbing & Heating ■ Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton ■ J. P. Harris Burford Ltd. ■ Horseshoe Tax & Bookkeeping Services
Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com
Welcome to Our New Members ■ J&A Plumbing and Heating Plumbing Contractors Shelley Dzsudzsak 6-20 Roy Blvd Brantford, ON N3R 7K2 519-770-8788 JAPlumbing.Heating@gmail.com
■ Greenview Mechanical Heating / A/C & Refrigeration Service & Repair Matt Shuel PO Box 24028 King George Rd. Brantford, ON N3R 7X3 519-761-3746 accounts@greenviewmechanical.com
■ Brant-Brantford Twin Valley Zoo Animal Protection & Shelters / Farmers Market Jennifer Stallmann 84 Langford Church Rd. Brantford, ON N3T 5L4 519-752-0607 twinvalleyzoo@hotmail.com
■ 1488553 Ontario Ltd. Holding Companies Angela Henrique 25 Scarfe Gardens Brantford, ON N3T 6B2 519-754-5651 angelahenrique@icloud.com
Welcome!
■ Export Development Canada Financing Lazar Radakovic 805-1 City Centre Dr. Mississauga, ON L5B 1M2 416-433-0634 lradakovic@edc.ca
Business After Hours Book your spot for 2021 Contact: leslie@brcc.ca Business After Hours is held the second Tuesday of each month, and is a great opportunity for Chamber members to network. For more information on hosting a Business After Hours, contact Leslie Barker at: leslie@brcc.ca.
CHECK OUT ALL THE BENEFITS AVAILABLE TO OUR MEMBERS! www.brantfordbrantchamber.com
Membership Renewals Continued ■ IDS Inc - Integrated Digital Solutions ■ Incor Enterprises Inc. ■ Ironstone Entrance Technologies Inc. ■ J & K Home Building Centre ■ J T Auto Repair ■ Jeff’s atWork- Office Furniture Brantford ■ S. C. Johnson and Son, Limited ■ KPMG LLP ■ Krivi Holdings Ltd. ■ Lanca Contracting Limited ■ Lauderdale Developments Inc. ■ Le Chocolat du Savoie Inc. ■ Levac’s Trophies Unlimited Inc. ■ The Lions McInnes House ■ LJS & Associates Consulting Inc. ■ Lynden Park Mall ■ Massage Addict-West Brant ■ Maxwell Management Group Ltd. ■ McCleister Funeral Home & Chapel ■ Mercasa Little Italy Eatery ■ Myra’s Bar & Grill
Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com
■ New Life Pentecostal Assembly ■ Oak House Benefits Inc. ■ The Olde School Restaurant Est. 1982 ■ Ontario Delivery Ltd. ■ Oriental Restaurant & Tavern ■ Participation Support Services ■ Peek Digital Imaging Inc. ■ Photohouse Studio ■ PWBS ■ Renway Energy Inc. ■ Rick Sterne ■ Roger’s Services Electrical & Mechanical Inc. ■ Route 24 Auto ■ Royal Machine Solutions ■ RV Parts Plus ■ Scotty’s Refrigeration Inc. ■ Services Unlimited ■ Simply Electric ■ Six Nations Polytechnic Inc. ■ Speekezzies Cafe & Wine Bar ■ Stepright Capital Planning Inc.
■ Strodes BBQ & Deli - Strodes The Pit ■ Strong Start to Reading ■ TD Canada Trust - 70 Market Street ■ The Beauty Barn Spa ■ The Design Center ■ Tim Horton’s - Colborne St. ■ Tirecraft Brantford Inc. ■ TK Liquidation and Auction ■ Tranquility Place Retirement Home ■ UFT Can. Inc. ■ Underwood, Ion & Johnson Law ■ United Compressed Air Inc. ■ David Van Elslander ■ West Brant Window World ■ Westervelt College ■ White Store Equipment Ltd. ■ Whole Body Health ■ Woodburn Insurance & Consulting ■ Young Living Essential Oils ■ Your Neighbourhood Credit Union Charlotte St.
May 2021
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Advocacy As the world continues to struggle with COVID-19, your investment in the Chamber and its global network is working hard on behalf of business and the broader community to address the significant challenges we are facing. The Ontario Chamber of Commerce founded the Ontario Vaccination Support Council, with partners Bruce Power and Facebook Canada and over 100 members, to provide a window into the Ontario Vaccine Distribution Task Force, and access to the private sector to facilitate this work. While the efficacy of Ontario’s efforts thus far may not appear to be immediately successful, there is no doubt that a concentrated effort to ensure every Ontarian has access to a vaccine is essential to a safe economic recovery, and business needs to be at the table to ensure that happens. The Ontario budget has just been released, and President Ken McNaughton and Director Sandra Vos had the opportunity for a question and answer period with Parliamentary Assistant Stan Cho, and MPP Will Bouma, coming in the middle of the OCC’s Advocacy Week. Ken and Sandra focused on regional transportation and broadband infrastructure, economic development, and a key question, how is Ontario going to pay for the $51 Billion in COVID-19 spending? The government, as its pre-Pandemic plans also reflected, is looking to Ontario to return to economic engine it was, and it optimistic for a rapid economic recovery. We also met with each of the Opposition
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May 2021
Parties to hear their ideas, and stress the ongoing challenges of business that the government could improve support for. Looking forward to April 19th, it will be interesting to observe the federal government’s first budget in two years, and how it responds to the challenges it faces. It is important to note that this will include significant input from an 18 member task force that hosted Canada’s Feminist Response and Recovery Summit. How that input is developed into policy tools and budget spending, combined with economic recovery ideas, will present one of the most interesting confidence votes in a minority government in memory. At the time of this writing, Ontario is entering another lockdown, this time for 28 days. Our ChamberTV series with RogersTV Brantford, focused on current economic and business recovery issues, will be essential to discussing the impacts on business and the economy. Please let us know your challenges and ideas, and how you can help, or need help.
Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com
Get Your Building On Track!
BRAND NEW River Rail Business Park Industrial land for SALE OR LEASE with Rail Shunt Available! Located at Powerline & Oak Park, River Rail is the only one of its kind in Brant County, with C.N. Rail shunts available and immediate access to Highway 403. All buildings feature premium façade treatments and more! Inquire today. Let’s get your exciting new Class ‘A’ M3 Industrial Space rolling. • • • •
Up to 500,000 sq.ft. Design-Build Opportunities Located at Powerline & Oak Park in Brant County Ample parking available 10% Finished Office Space with Mezzanine
• • • •
Access to Highway 403 Minutes to Pearson International Airport Supports various uses Hwy 403 signage visibility
For more information contact LANCA CONTRACTING LIMITED AT 519.756.1880 • LANCA.COM Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com
May 2021
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Member Profile Welcome To Twin Valley Zoo! Making memories and letting nature nurture at Twin Valley Zoo has been a tradition for so many Brantford and Brant County families. Our story started, in a little town in Holland with a classic “boy meets girl” beginning. Hendrika and Anthony met at 13 years old, fell in love and made promises. They married, uprooted from Holland and set off for Canada with a suitcase, $20, a tool box, and a dream. Tony and Henny worked incredibly hard, often floating several jobs, while raising 5 children. Tony worked for many years as a skilled carpenter. He suffered a shoulder injury and lost several fingers in an accident, making wood working very difficult. One of their sons suggested starting a small petting farm, where Tony could share his love for animals. With that simple suggestion, Tony’s dream took root.
The park was established in 1991 and has continued to grow. Tony sadly passed away in 2011 but Henny, their son Thomas, his wife Jennifer and their amazing Zoo Crew have proudly carried on Tony’s legacy. Today the park looks a little different. We have evolved and grown, opening our home and arms as a sanctuary to so many animals in need. Love, a strong passion for animals and
nature, dedication and team work have kept Twin Valley Zoo flourishing. Home to over 80 species of animals, rolling hills, whispy willows and the gentle sounds of nature, we welcome you to our backyard. Become a part of our Twin Valley Zoo Family today
Customized Insurance Coverage That Works for You
Cowan Insurance Group takes the time to understand your needs and build an integrated solution tailored to you.
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Business Insurance • Personal Insurance Group Benefits • Wealth Management
225 King George Road, Brantford, ON N3R 7N7
We care about what you care about cowangroup.ca
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May 2021
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Ask A Lawyer
When Shareholders’ Rights and Marital Rights Collide Waterous Holden Amey Hitchon LLP
Nolan Wilson, Lawyer Among many other things, marriage is an economic partnership. It should come as no surprise that this partnership often leads to both spouses playing a role in a family business. In the case of incorporated businesses, this can sometimes mean that both spouses own corporate shares. What may be overlooked in such a situation is that, in the event of a breakdown of the marriage, a separating spouse who is also a corporate shareholder may have unique rights and entitlements which extend beyond the scope of Family Law and have significant implications for the corporation at large. In the absence of special agreements like Prenuptial Contracts, a married spouse going through a separation under Ontario law is generally entitled to a division of the net value of property acquired during the marriage. All things being equal, if “Spouse A” holds 51 corporate shares and “Spouse B” holds 49 corporate shares, the readily-available Family Law remedy Spouse B can ask for is to be paid half the difference in the total value between the shares each spouse holds.
Waterous Holden Amey Hitchon LLP Brantford, 20 Wellington St., Brantford.
interest of fairness. Winding up a corporation is a remedy in which the business is essentially sold off and shareholders are paid out from the remaining assets. This option of last resort terminates business activities altogether and is fatal to the corporation. Even if a court declines to order a winding up, it could still make a wide variety of orders as it sees fit, including imposing terms requiring one spouse to pay a specified price for the purchase of the other spouse’s shares.
Whether planning to enter into a shareholder relationship with a spouse, or trying to get out of one, timely and effective legal advice can be instrumental in navigating the overlapping legal issues. The lawyers at Waterous Holden Amey Hitchon LLP can assist in resolving legal disputes when they arise or, better still, attempting to avoid disputes altogether through Marriage Contracts and Shareholders’ Agreements made well in advance. nwilson@waterousholden.com
If the situation were reversed, the court might also force an unwilling spouse to sell off his or her shares. A point of note, however: Corporations which take unilateral out-ofcourt actions to squeeze out a shareholder are exposed to liability risks by potentially engaging other legal rights which protect the interests of minority shareholders.
What recourse is there, however, if Spouse B no longer wants to own the 49 shares and instead would like to be paid a fair price to simply walk away from the corporation completely? An emerging body of “hybrid” court cases suggests that a separating spouse who is also a shareholder may apply to the court for an order to “wind up” the corporation in the
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May 2021
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Eat Local The Chamber of Commerce BrantfordBrant appreciates the hard work done by everyone at our member establishments to keep great food on the table and to continue serving the City of Brantford and the County of Brant. Local restaurants are part of the identity of any region and we’re fortunate to have some of the best local restaurants here at home. A healthy and thriving restaurant industry is critical to a culture and a society. Stakeholders in our restaurant industry aren’t just owners, employees and guests; the restaurant industry impacts nearly 10% of Canada’s GDP and affects us all in one way or another. Now more than ever, it’s important to support your local restaurants. When you dine at a local establishment, $0.68 from every dollar stays in your community. Thank you to our local member restaurants who continue to support Brantford-Brant and remain an important part of our local economy and culture! Please consider supporting our member eateries the next time you decide to eat out or order in!
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May 2021
Ardency Corporation Big Smoke Burger Brantford Bistro Greeco Italiano Booster Juice Café Andreou Crabby Joe’s Bar & Grill Devlins Country Bistro & Catering Goo’s Take Out & Catering Mercasa Little Italy Eatery Myra’s Bar & Grill Nine North Viet-Thai Cuisine Oriental Restaurant & Tavern Our Kitchen/The Jelly Girls Sherwood Restaurant & Catering Sociable Kitchen & Tavern Speekezzies Café & Wine Bar
The Blue Dog The Brantford Club The Keg Steakhouse & Bar The Olde School Restaurant Est. 1982 Tim Hortons - Colborne St. Tim Hortons – Downtown
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Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com
May 2021
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Member Profile Modo Yoga The health of our students is our primary focus. We offering classes designed to optimize mental and physical well-being, through guided instruction in each of our classes. In a culture that is always striving, Modo Yoga Brantford provides a space for individuals from all walks to life to come together for the purpose of being; here, in this moment — to find acceptance and respect for the bodies that we reside in. We accomplish this by guiding a movement-based practice, grounded in mindfulness techniques that are easy to understand and accessible to all. The present moment that we find ourselves in offers us a wealth of peace if we are able to tap into
it, and it is within this directed focus that we inspire students to find respite from the busy lives that we all lead. Modo Yoga Brantford opened its doors, downtown Brantford in 2015, and for the last 5 years has grown to serve the community, both at their downtown studio location, and on-site at schools, businesses and social service locations throughout Brantford and the surrounding area. It is our evidence-based approach to healing and emotional regulation that sets Modo Yoga apart from other fitness studios, and it is this approach to fitness that inspires our students to live self-expressed and
at peace with the way things are— Now. This past year has been a challenge for us as a community, and it has been a year of reflection and planning as we look forward to the next 5 years of service. You can find our in-studio and virtual class offerings on the MODO YOGA APP (visit your App store), or on our website at Modo Yoga Brantford website: modoyogabrantford.com. If you are looking for an increased measure of well-being in your life, whether mentally or physically, we invite you to joins us for classes. We look forward to supporting you on this journey of life, and we are certain that you will find something truly special here.
SALES • 24/7 SERVICE • INSTALLATION
Heating • Air Conditioning Refrigeration • Ventilation Hydronic Heating
Working together to serve you better!
8 - 236 BRANEIDA LANE, UNIT 8, BRANTFORD 519-758-3500 or 519-751-9190 Fax: 519-758-3505 info@vivemechanical.net • customerservice@brantmechanical.ca
www.vivebrant.com 14
May 2021
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Member Profile Insitu Remediation Services Ltd. Insitu Remediation Services is based in St George and is proud to be celebrating 10 years of serving of customers. Insitu is a highly specialized firm that designs, implements, and maintains soil and groundwater remediation programs in diverse geological environments around the globe. We specialize in both in situ remediation and ex situ remediation, with our most commonly used remediation techniques being chemical absorption, chemical oxidation, chemical reduction, and bioremediation. Over the past 10 years we have worked on over 200 jobsites in 17 different countries, working to reduce toxic contaminates and better the world around us. We have gained the experience to take on any project of any size. We implement innovative solutions, based on sound science and engineering, using seasoned professionals. Our pragmatic, flexible approach reduces effort, cost to our clients, and environmental risk while minimizing the ecological footprint. At every
site we work on, we go above and beyond to leave it better than before. We started InSitu with a vision of using technology and innovation to change the world. Now our company makes land usable again by remediating it back to its original condition. We believe the work that we do benefits more than our clients. With more usable, clean spaces, humans can do more. If you or someone you know wants to learn more about Insitu, don’t hesitate to visit our website www.irsl.ca.
Your propane company since 1951
Clean Propane Energy Our Kids Will Thank Us Convenient payment & automatic delivery options Appliance sales, installation, service & repair A er-hours emergency service Canadian owned and locally operated
St. George 183 Industrial Blvd. St. George, ON N0E 1N0
Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com
Toll-Free
1-866-517-1714
Visit
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May 2021
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Financial Feature
Important Questions to Ask Before a Big Home Renovation
Do you carry the appropriate insurance? According to the Canadian Homeowner’s Association, hiring people without the proper insurance could put you at legal and financial risk should something happen in your home. Protect yourself (and the workers improving your home) by having liability insurance and worker’s compensation. Will we get a written contract?
Nancy Blunden, DLC
Hiring a contractor for your big home reno... Ask these important questions to make sure you are picking the right contractor. What is your experience in home renovation? This question can help you determine how long the contractor has been in the business, whether they’ve worked with similar challenges as those in your home and how they ensure that projects are completed on time. Do you have a contracting license? Depending on where you live, there are different requirements for what type of license a contractor has to hold. Check the laws in your region to see what might apply, and ask potential contractors directly whether they hold those licenses.
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This should be a given if you’re working with a contractor because if the answer is no, don’t even bother moving forward with the interview. You should never pay the full price of the job upfront, and the specific timeline for completing your Contractors should also always offer a warranty in writing that informs you of what is covered and for how long. Can we get in touch with your past clients? A contractor should be proud of their past work. Take this as an opportunity to figure out how contractors approach their work, whether they have effectively handled disputes and fact-check what contractors tell you about their working style. Will you be responsible for building permits? If there is a chance that your building requires permits, you want to make sure that your contractor is prepared in this area. Looking to renovate or purchase, I also offer preapprovals. Please give me a call Nancy Blunden, M08003503 Forest City Funding #10671 Working from home 519-770-6102 nancyblunden@yahoo.ca or visit my web site www.nancyblunden.ca
May 2021
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54th Annual
A portion of the proceeds will be in support of: Crime Stoppers
Chamber Golf Tournament Wed. June 2nd, 2021 Copetown Woods Golf Course
$185 inclusive per golfer
Includes your round of golf, GPS power golf cart, lunch, take home gourmet dinner, putting contest, golfer goodie bag and golfer prize.
Register at www.brantfordbrantchamber.com
WHAT’S KEEPING YOU COOL THIS SUMMER? Call today and talk to a BML professional about our preventative maintenance program
Our Services:
· HVAC/R · Plumbing
· Electrical · Sheet Metal
· Millwrighting · Fire Protection
Call: 519-756-4150 www.bmlmultitrades.ca 18
May 2021
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Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com
May 2021
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Member Profile Brant Food for Thought Well-documented research shows a clear link between good nutrition, improved school performance and better overall health. Undernourished children have lower selfesteem, difficulty concentrating, and are absent from school more often. Well-nourished and active children and youth are more likely to be better prepared to learn and maintain their health, as they move into adulthood. Since 1998, Brant Food For Thought has contributed to a child’s ability to learn by supporting and facilitating Universal Student Nutrition Programs in elementary and secondary schools in Brantford and the County of Brant. We support schools to start or maintain healthy breakfast or snack programs by providing grants for food and equipment, nutrition education resources, volunteer recruitment strategies, volunteer recognition activities, fundraising events, networking opportunities, skills training workshops and public awareness. Brant
Food For Thought supports the capacity of 48 school-based nutrition programs and close to 10,000 children and youth to receive a healthy breakfast or snack, 2 to 5 days a week.
agencies to provide healthy food boxes to families with school-aged children and youth or bulk quantities of whole, fresh fruits, vegetables and high quality dairy products.
In response to COVID-19 and to minimize the risk of virus transmission, Brant Food For Thought developed three models for program delivery this school year.
For more information about these programs and services, visit our website at www. brantfoodforthought.ca. Like us on Facebook (BrantFoodForThought) or follow us on Twitter and Instagram, @BrantFFT.
The Snack Bin Program helps schools access easy-prep, healthy food options that are delivered directly to school nutrition programs operated by school staff. The Grab ‘N Go Snack Bags Program is a partnership with Tim Horton Onondaga Farms where healthy grab ‘n go snack bags are packed and delivered directly to schools that have no capacity to operate on-site. The Virtual Student Nutrition Boxes / Bulk Foods is building the capacity of local food banks and community
Formerly BCT and Cozzmic Communications
At Cozzmic, we care. Our Services:
Phone Systems Data Networks Access Control Security CCTV Cabling Internet
20
May 2021
www.cozzmic.com
20 Ryan Place, Unit #3A, Brantford, ON Local: 519-752-3553 | TF: 1-800-521-4837
Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com
MEMBER EXCLUSIVE PRICING HOME OF NO ADMIN FEE
At Brantford Toyota, Chamber of Commerce members receive: Exclusive VIP Pricing on new and pre-owned vehicles No admin fee Great sales and service experiences! Brantford Toyota donates a portion of all vehicle sales to Brantford community and mumerous charities included: The Shoebox Foundation, Brantford Food Bank, Boys & Girls Club of Brantford, Skip Burst and more (see our website for details).
Member of the 2020 Toyota President’s Club
5 Woodyatt Dr, Brantford ON N3R 7K1 519-752-1039 | brantfordtoyota.ca
Save the Date: September 29th, 2021 4:00–7:00pm The Chamber of Commerce Brantford Brant invites you to attend our 12th Annual Trade Show, held in partnership with the Best Western Brantford Hotel and Conference Centre. Come and check out the 50 Businesses and organizations participating as Exhibitors. Discover and learn about a diverse group of businesses, all featuring unique resources, skills and services. Each of them eager to share and exchange information and ideas. This event is free to attend and open to the public. Feel free to bring a business colleague, client or friend. Don’t forget your business cards, it’s the networking event of the year!
Chamber of Commerce Brantford • Brant
DOWNLOAD AN APPLICATION TO BE AN EXHIBITOR AT BRANTFORDBRANTCHAMBER.COM Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com
May 2021
21
Business Excellence Awards - 2021 BELL COMMUNITY BUILDER AWARD
>>THE YEAR AWARD
ENTERPRISE BRANT ENTREPRENEUR OF >>
WATEROUS HOLDEN AMEY HITCHON COMPANY OF THE YEAR AWARD
A BIG THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS 2021 SPONSORS PRESENTING PARTNER
SILVER ACIC Pharmaceuticals / Methapharm Inc. Apogee Ceramics Inc. Bowman Precision Tooling Brantford Honda
DOUBLE PLATINUM
Creative Circuits Inc. Extend Communications Massilly North America
Bell Canada
Norlok Technology Inc.
Enterprise Brant
Renway Energy Inc.
Waterous Holden Amey Hitchon
S.C. Johnson and Son, Limited Sharp Bus Lines Synergy Mouldworks Inc.
PLATINUM
Millards, Chartered Professional Accountants
FINALIST ANNOUNCEMENT EVENT
Nancy Tomkins Implant & Denture Clinic
SILVER
BMO Bank of Montreal
RBC Royal Bank Scotiabank Sonoco Canada Corporation TD Commercial Banking
22
Wade Antenna Inc.
May 2021
Crossing All Bridges Learning Centre PQI Canada Ltd. Vive Mechanical Inc.
Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com
First the telephone. Now the world’s fastest Internet technology. Brantford, say hello to pure fibre Internet. Bell is proud to bring pure fibre Internet to Brantford. Get 100% fibre directly to your home and enjoy the fastest Internet technology at an amazing price. FIBE 150 INTERNET Download and upload speeds of up to 150 Mbps Unlimited usage
During COVID-19, health and safety measures are in place to protect our customers and employees.
For expert advice, an incredible selection and to verify availability, contact:
BRANTFORD Lynden Park Mall 519 756-6742
BRANTFORD Sobeys Plaza West Brant 519 756-9100
Current as of February 6, 2021. Offer ends March 31, 2021. Available to new residential customers in select dwellings in Brantford, where access/technology permit. Subject to change without notice; not combinable with other offers. Taxes extra. Customer must opt to receive paperless billing. Modem rental included. Speed experienced on the Internet may vary with your technical configuration, Internet traffic, server, your environment, simultaneous use of IPTV (if applicable) and other factors. (1) Price is subject to increase during your subscription. Any change made to services may affect the price and/or result in the loss of credits or promotions, as the case may be, as eligibility conditions may vary. Fibe is a trademark of Bell Canada.
Visit us at brantfordbrantchamber.com
May 2021
23
County of Brant Small Business Pandemic Support Programs Public Safety Community Improvement Plan (CIP) •
The Public Safety CIP or Community Improvement Plan is a new stream of funding to support businesses in implementing public safety measures.
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Promotes and supports safer interactions while allowing for business to be conducted.
Temporary Patio Allowance Program •
The Temporary Patio Allowance Program allows for patios to be established all year on private property, and for a specified period of time on public property.
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Promotes and supports safer interactions while allowing for business to be conducted.
Responsible, Safe Visitation is the Priority (RSVP) in Brant •
RSVP in Brant or Responsible, Safe Visitation is the Priority in Brant initiative focuses on consistent messaging, education and visit planning to ensure those visiting the County of Brant place a priority on responsible, safe visitation.
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Promotes and supports safer interactions while allowing for business to be conducted.
For more information on these programs and to apply, contact the Brant Economic Development team today at invest@brant.ca
Brant Economic Development & Tourism QDEC @InvestinBrant | #BrantWorks | invest.brant.ca