The Chamber News Newswire

Chamber network reveal Nation-wide business survey results while releasing report outlining the landscape for Ontario’s economic recovery

Wed, 29 Apr 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Chamber network reveal Nation-wide business survey results while releasing report outlining the landscape for Ontario’s economic recovery

TIMMINS, ON | April 29, 2020— Today, the much anticipated results of the Canadian Survey on Business Conditions (CSBC) have been revealed. The initiative was a joint effort between Statistics Canada and the Canadian Chamber network and provides the most detailed insight yet into the impact of COVID-19 on Canadian businesses. During the two-week period, the Timmins Chamber joined the network in canvasing its membership to participate and have their voice joined in the pan-national survey.

Val Venneri, President of the Timmins Chamber, was pleased with local member participation. “We know that our Northern businesses often share unique challenges, operating in rural and remote regions, and we were pleased that our members had the opportunity to provide their input,” said Venneri.

Trevin Stratton, Chief Economist at the Canadian Chamber echoed Venneri’s comment adding, “the survey is Canada’s first comprehensive view into how our businesses are adapting, managing or, sadly, failing as the COVID-19 shutdown continues. Insights from more than 13,000 businesses bring into focus the time pressures businesses face to avoid closing their doors permanently. At the same time, the survey also shows how quickly the businesses that can are adapting to social distancing and preparing for the re-opening of the economy. The survey will provide critical information for governments as they develop and deliver their programs.”

The Chamber network was approached by StatsCan because of the unique connection Chambers of Commerce share with their members at the grassroots level and the power advocacy that they undertake on their behalf.

“Today’s official release of the data collected from thousands of Canadian business owners represents the innovative and unprecedented solutions needed to address the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The unique partnership and collaboration between our two organizations demonstrates what can be achieved when organizations work together to provide the insights needed to navigate the way forward. Through this collaboration we have advanced our collective ability to better understand the issues and challenges faced by Canadian businesses. Today’s results will provide an accurate picture of true impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Canadian economy and will enable the best decisions at public and private sector tables across the country,” said Anil Arora, Chief Statistician of Canada.

The CBSC examined issues like the COVID-19’s impact on businesses, how businesses have adapted to the ongoing situation, challenges they continue to face and those they expect as the recovery begins. The survey compiled 13,037 responses and was in market between April 4, 2020 and April 24, 2020. For more information about the survey, click here.

Additionally, and in a timely release, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce launched their policy brief entitled Uncharted Territory: Assessing the Landscape for Ontario’s Economic Recovery Post COVID-19 to help inform relief and recovery efforts. This report is the first in a series of policy briefs touching on various aspects of the COVID-19 crisis. To help guide Provincial recovery measures, the report outlines how the pandemic has caused global economic disruption and triggered unprecedented responses as governments and central banks enter uncharted waters.

“The inability of our members to make ends meet marks the beginning of what could be a swift deterioration of invaluable economic structures, such as supply chains, markets, investment, and credit facilities, irreparably harming Ontario’s future,” added Venneri. “We need to starve the virus, not the economy: immense and unprecedented relief measures will continue to be needed to preserve the economy through pandemic containment measures.”

As governments urgently contemplate policies to reopen the economy, the report outlines the tools capable of providing critical economic relief at a time when businesses need it most, and the risks of failing to act appropriately.

Uncharted Territory is the first in a series of COVID-19 policy briefs to be released over the coming months providing insights on the impacts of the pandemic on the business community.

The report also advises the Ontario government to continue to:

Work with the federal government and Bank of Canada, encouraging the use of monetary policy in complement with fiscal measures, to preserve the economic viability of businesses. Though government can use debt financing and cash reserves to support businesses, monetary policy is needed to support credit market liquidity, private investment, and fiscal measures in funding direct relief; and
Work with the federal government to implement a comprehensive COVID - 19 testing and tracing regime. The report explains that it is only through exhaustive testing and tracing of potential breakouts that businesses and their respective workforces will be offered confidence in their ability to work in a safe environment.

“Through robust and efficient relief measures, and working in concert with our public health system, Ontario commerce will once again demonstrate that its economy is one of the most resilient in the world,” stated Venneri.

To read the Ontario Chamber’s report, click here.

To view the Chamber’s COVID-19 Business Toolkit, visit www.timminschamber.on.ca/COVID-19

Over 60 per cent of local survey respondents say COVID-19 pandemic has impacted their business, reveals Timmins Chamber report

Fri, 17 Apr 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Over 60 per cent of local survey respondents say COVID-19 pandemic has impacted their business, reveals Timmins Chamber report

TIMMINS, ON | April 17, 2020— Today, the Chamber launched the COVID-19 Business Impact Report, shedding light on how the pandemic is affecting local small- to medium-sized entrepreneurs (SMEs). Of the 74 survey respondents, which comprises SME owners and non-profit leaders, 63 per cent indicated an overall reduction in operations.

As the regions largest business support organization, the Chamber launched the member survey on Mar. 20 to understand how the Provincial emergency declarations and essential business restrictions has had on local entrepreneurs. The data shows startling statistics, as respondents indicated that 36 per cent had either furloughed, laid off, or significantly reduced employee hours—collectively representing approximately 850 of Timmins labour force.

“We know the COVID-19 pandemic constitutes an unprecedented challenge for our local business community with very severe socio-economic consequences,” said Val Venneri, President of The Chamber. “Since the beginning of the emergency declaration, the Chamber has been in contact with representatives from all levels of government, advocating for support that will help mitigate the damage being done to the regional economy.”

The report features key asks from entrepreneurs and provides recommendations on how each level of government can better support them during the pandemic. The report’s most pressing priorities included:

Tax and levy deferrals;
Clear, concise, and timely information;
Access to cash flow; and
Provide funding broadly and expeditiously.

To date, the Chamber and its network have effectively lobbied government to implement the vast majority of respondents’ asks.

Venneri added, “it is important that survey respondents see timely action and tangible outcomes from their feedback. Knowing their pain points informs our decisions going forward and it is critical that they continue engaging as the emergency declaration weighs on.”

In the coming days, the Chamber and City Joint Business Continuity and Recovery Task Force will be rolling out a local survey to continue to gauge the effects of the pandemic and encourage all SMEs as well as non-profit and association leaders to participate.

“While we understand there is much to be done, the Chamber is committed to providing the tools and information necessary to meet this challenge in a spirit of solidarity and support of our members,” stated Venneri.

To read the Chamber’s COVID-19 Business Impact Report, click here.

The Chamber partners with NEOnet to release timely report outlining how their members can improve utilizing social media platforms

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

The Chamber partners with NEOnet to release timely report outlining how their members can improve utilizing social media platforms

TIMMINS, ON | March 30, 2020: “Social media is just a buzzword, until you come up with a strategy,” said Chamber President Val Venneri at the launch of their 2019-20 Social Media Audit Report, supported by NEOnet. A timely release amid this period of income-earners working from home, the Chamber and NEOnet has partnered to release a pulse check on which of our members are active on social media and how they are engaging new and existing clientele.

“The Chamber recognizes that being a small business owner means you are the accountant, the bookkeeper, the human resource manager, and yes-- the creative marketing director,” added Venneri.

The release of the report is both timely and quintessential amid the COVID-19 pandemic as it provides a real-time snapshot of Timmins’ businesses; who are in need of support, can use social media as a conduit to get their businesses active and engaged on the virtual spectrum.

“What is most evident is that more can be done to help those within the membership navigate untapped platforms and maximize efficiency in posting to multiple social media outlets,” said Venneri.

As small businesses play an indispensable role in our local economy, the Chamber felt it natural to partner with NEOnet, as local small- to medium-sized enterprises largely comprise the economic engine that drives our community forward. These businesses are a vital component of Timmins’ economy and are a primary source of innovation and job creation and support can be provided through funding with NEOnet.

Paul Ouimet, Director of Operations for NEOnet, echoes Venneri’s comments adding, “the findings summarized in the 'Member Social Media Audit' are very insightful - do take a moment to review them. Consider reaching out to The Chamber or to NEOnet which can assist with educational opportunities and encouragement to strengthen your use and leveraging these platforms to maintain a connection with your clients and potential clients.”

“An e-commerce ready community allows our members within relevant and respective industries to take their business online in the case of pandemic emergencies such as the COVID-19,” shares Venneri. “Your Chamber can help guide you through these available resources.”

“When employed correctly, social media can be a low-cost and effective tool for any small business owner, however the multitude of platforms may present barriers. With the help of your Chamber and some creative strategies, these barriers are surmountable,” added Venneri.

To view the Chamber’s Social Media Report, sponsored by NEOnet, click here.

Timmins Chamber given blue verified badge as Twitter designates account as trusted news source in Timmins

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins Chamber given blue verified badge as Twitter designates account as trusted news source in Timmins

TIMMINS, ON | March 19, 2020: The Chamber has recently been given the designation of Twitter Verified in a move that reaffirms the account as a trusted source for business news in Northern Ontario and acknowledges the organization as the Voice of Business in Timmins since 1949.

“Having the authenticated badge from Twitter positions the Chamber as a credible source of business information in the region,” said Val Venneri, President of the Chamber. “We are the only Chamber in Northern Ontario with this designation and it not only provides our members with a reassured source of business resources but amplifies our advocacy efforts, knowing that many government agencies and politicians themselves, hold the designation.”

The Chamber employs several social media platforms to share news, upcoming events, and powerful advocacy pieces with its membership. Now having the verified designation solidifies its mandate as the indispensable partner of business, working to advance the socio-economic landscape of Timmins and Northern Ontario.

Twitter determines whether an account will be verified and gives the badge to accounts maintained by musicians, actors, politicians, media, government, and other key accounts of public interest.

The Chamber provides recommendations to assist local business in open letter to Mayor and Council

Thu, 19 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

The Chamber provides key recommendations to assist local business in open letter to Mayor and Council

TIMMINS, ON | March 23, 2020: In advance of this week’s City Council meeting, the Chamber has produced an open letter to Mayor and Council that outlines the business community’s top priorities and provides key recommendations as to how the City can help alleviate financial pressures faced by business owners during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our community, particularly the small business sector, is facing significant challenges and economic impacts due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Val Venneri, President of the Chamber. “Many businesses have already laid-off numerous staff while some have shut down completely. We believe that many more businesses will be required to take similar steps in the coming days and weeks.”

The Chamber has compiled the following recommended temporary actions for consideration by the City of Timmins:

Interest-free deferral of property tax installments scheduled for May 29, 2020;
Interest-free deferral of water/wastewater payments for all businesses;
Cancellation of daily fixed cost water/wastewater charges for high water-usage businesses including hotels and restaurants;
Elimination of all parking fees in business areas;
Cancellation of development service department fees (building, planning, zoning) to stimulate construction activities; and
Cancellation of all business-related permit fees including signage permit fees.

The City’s portion of Municipal Accommodation Taxes collected in 2020 can be used to support recovery efforts for the local tourism sector and its related businesses.

The Chamber is advocating to all orders of government in support of measures that can assist business owners and their employees. For up-to-date business information, visit the Chamber’s Facebook and LinkedIn page. A resource page for business preparedness toolkit as it pertains to business continuity and recovery information is available on the Chamber’s website. To access the toolkit, visit: www.timminschamber.on.ca/covid-19.html

Chamber calls for red tape reduction in new report, highlights that without growth, businesses cannot continue to support community-based organizations

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Press Release

Chamber calls for red tape reduction in new report, highlights that without growth, businesses cannot continue to support community-based organizations

TIMMINS, ON | October 18, 2019— Today, the Chamber, in partnership with Wyatt Image Solutions, released a new report entitled the 2019 Business Confidence Report. The report presents a candid look at local private sector sentiment and opportunities for economic growth, while examining the barriers faced in conducting business in Timmins. The survey saw feedback from 135 locally operated businesses and offered participants the opportunity to weigh in on their most pressing local issues.

The survey asked Chamber members what contributes to their success, satisfaction with the services and infrastructure managed by the city, plans for the future, what tools they would need to implement these plans, and most importantly, what barriers they face that impacts their continued success.

“I am proud to see that our business community continues to remain optimistic. With confidence and growth projections exceeding our expectations, entrepreneurs are continuing to move forward,” said Val Venneri, President of the Chamber.

“Our members have indicated that individual business optimism remains positive, with an outlook to grow over the coming years. These levels of optimism derive from the confidence local entrepreneurs have in their own ability to execute and get the job done,” said Venneri.

The report finds that access to a skilled workforce remains top of mind. The data identifies this to be the greatest impact on the operation, future potential growth and may impede opportunities for partnership or expansion.

“Employer satisfaction is high and plans for future expansion exist, however the vast majority of respondents show concern with access to a qualified, motivated, and reliable workforce,” said Venneri. “There is increasing concern over employment growth being largely concentrated in Southern Ontario, while Northern Ontario has experienced slow or even negative growth. We must continue to work together to develop strategies for attraction and retention, to ensure a healthy and skilled workforce.”

Public safety came second, citing it as having both a direct and indirect impact, deterring customers and hindering the continued success. Additionally, many entrepreneurs feel that current property tax rates are impacting their business, citing taxes and fees are too high.

The report’s sponsor Kyle Leduc, Business Development Manager and Partner with Wyatt Image Solutions, echoes the report’s findings, “local businesses cite optimism on growth, despite continual concerns with respect to red tape and hindering regulations.”

“Timmins' economic success hinges on the ability of small business owners to build capital, hire workers, and grow their companies at scale. That’s why we are pleased to partner with the Chamber in outlining the challenges and opportunities faced in having to do business in Northern Ontario,” said Leduc.

When asked what would be cut in the face of an economic downturn, over 80 percent of respondents indicated that among the top three items to be reduced or eliminated would be charitable and community contributions and donations.

“The Chamber will continue to push our #finditINtimmins initiative which not only encourages consumers to find goods and services within the community but also serves to emphasize the importance of voting with your dollar,” said Venneri.

The Chamber's Business Confidence Report indicates a sharp uptick in economic optimism among small- to medium-sized entrepreneurs. For the most part, our local economy is in good health, however greater collaboration with the City of Timmins is critical.

The report culminates with a number of timely recommendations including:

Promote and encourage entrepreneurs to join in roundtable discussions that seek to develop the framework that will attract and retain a more viable labour force;
Greater interaction with the City of Timmins. Regular consultation and information sharing will reduce vulnerabilities and better develop policies with the aim of fostering competitiveness; and
Increase accessibility and awareness for the Community Improvement Plan and assist entrepreneurs in navigating the application process to revitalize areas within their business.

Click here to read the 2019 Business Confidence Report.

Finalists announced for 2020 Nova Business Excellence Awards

Tue, 03 Mar 2020 00:00:00 GMT

Finalists announced for 2020 Nova Business Excellence Awards

TIMMINS, ON | March 3, 2020: The finalists for the 2020 Nova Business Excellence Awards have been selected, as the Chamber has announced the 45 leading adventurists of Timmins business who will blaze the trails as finalists at the region’s biggest celebration of entrepreneurial achievement.

A total of 124 nominations were submitted across 15 award categories for this year’s May 7 event and were narrowed to three finalists per category by a panel of independent community judges. These finalists will be celebrated under the theme of Camp Nova – the Nature of Business, to showcase the many ways these entrepreneurs are survival experts, navigating the rocky and wild terrain, leading the way forward.

“This year’s slate of incredible nominees is yet another reminder that Northern Ontario entrepreneurs are leaders in shaping the socio-economic landscape, incorporating our great northern terrain into almost every aspect of their business, and they deserve our recognition,” said Val Venneri, President of the Chamber.

“It’s clear from this list of finalists that our local entrepreneurs have earned more than just a few camp badges of respect, which is why we’re looking forward to celebrating the best of Timmins business at the Nova Awards on May 7.”

Now in its 18th year, the annual awards gala is dedicated to Timmins business success stories and highlights their positive impact on the region and its economy. As such, this annual celebration of business is a crucial one, said Venneri.

“Our businesses consistently work with each other, indoors and out, to help make Timmins a great place to work, live, and play. It’s why we’re honoured to have spent 18 years making sure their achievements are recognized and we look forward to more than 700 attendees joining us at the Nova Awards to help us celebrate this unforgettable evening.”

When asked about #Nova2020, Venneri goes on to state, “each year, the Nova Awards feature a unique theme that helps us build anticipation and be creative with the look and feel of the event. Doing business in Northern Ontario means that we get to live in nature’s great backyard, so naturally, we’re looking forward to bringing that feeling into the McIntyre Arena that evening.”

Tickets to the gala event will go on sale March 24 at $160 plus HST, or $125 plus HST for Chamber members, and tables of 10 are available. Ticket reservations can be made via email at info@timminschamber.on.ca

A photo gallery of finalists receiving their notifications is available at on the Chamber’s Facebook page.

Chamber pleased to see eye on cost constraints within approved City budget

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 00:00:00 GMT

New research identifies opportunities to support small business success as Ontario Chamber and Timmins Chamber release fourth annual Ontario Economic Report and introduce the new Small Business Friendliness Indicator

Timmins, ON | February 26, 2020 - Today, the Timmins Chamber and Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s (OCC) fourth annual Ontario Economic Report (OER) reveals opportunities where both business and government can focus to create an environment more conducive to small business success.

The inaugural Small Business Friendliness Indicator (SBFI) measures Ontario’s competitiveness from the perspective of our Northern Ontario small businesses. For 2020, the SBFI score is -9, (on a scale of 100 to -100) indicating that the business environment poses some challenges for firms with fewer than 99 employees. However, through measures such as investment in online services and support for regulatory compliance, industry and government could improve that score.

“The Ontario Economic Report, including the Small Business Friendliness Indicator, is a useful tool to inform government on where to reduce barriers and increase investment to support business competitiveness across the province,” said Val Venneri, President of the Timmins Chamber. “Several of our local business owners had the opportunity to provide their feedback to the OCC and we’re pleased to see their concerns highlighted in this important report,” added Venneri.

The SBFI is intended to provide an assessment of the ease of business in Ontario across seven different metrics; this year the scores for three metrics were positive: the helpfulness of the Province in starting a business, the ease of licensing, and the delivery of useful training and networking programs from a variety of sources.

The SBFI also revealed that small business owners are eager to embrace more online services from government, especially with respect to regulatory compliance.

Rocco Rossi, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber added, “the results indicate that the Government of Ontario is on the right track by focusing on efforts to digitize government services, expand access to broadband, and cut red tape. However, more work remains to be done.” Rossi went on to say, “small businesses are powerful drivers of economic growth across Ontario: they constitute 98 percent of all businesses and 30 percent of the provincial GDP. Together, small businesses employ nearly three million Ontarians and represent over two-thirds of private sector workers. Given the share of the economy this sector represents, ignoring their competitiveness is like ignoring business competitiveness overall.”

Other highlights from the Ontario Economic Report include:

The confidence gap, which measures the difference between business’ confidence in themselves and in Ontario’s economic outlook, widened in 2020 to near historical levels. Although organizational confidence remains high, business confidence in the broader economy dropped seven percentage points in 2020, explained in part by lowered growth expectations nationally and globally. Beyond this, challenges related to the costs of doing business, the high cost of living, and the province’s debt continue to be top of mind for OCC members

Infrastructure investment, such as transportation and broadband internet, topped the list of business priorities for government, followed by reducing regulatory burdens, lowering the cost of living, and reforming business taxes.

Challenges related to accessing financial capital, attracting and retaining talent and burdensome regulations continue to compromise the ability of many of Northern Ontario’s community to compete effectively with other jurisdictions.

Despite these challenges, Ontario’s principal economic indicators remain sound, albeit subdued, heading into 2020, but economic growth is expected to vary greatly across the province. The forecasts show employment and population growth in the Greater Golden Horseshoe and Ottawa surpassing other parts of Ontario, reinforcing a decade-long trend of imbalanced economic growth across the province.

The Ontario Economic Report was made possible by support from Hydro One.

Read the 2020 Ontario Economic Report here.

Timmins Chamber and Canadian Chamber release roadmap to greater prosperity for Northern Ontario in latest release

Tue, 03 Dec 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, ON | December 3, 2019— Today, the Timmins Chamber joined the Canadian Chamber in the release of a Roadmap to Prosperity: A Minority Parliament Guide to Economic Growth. In the lead-up to the 2019 federal election, the Chamber network presented its plan for economic growth through the Vote Prosperity platform. The Liberal, Conservative, New Democratic and Green parties all incorporated various elements from the economic plan in their own party platforms.

On October 23, two days after voters re-elected a Liberal minority government, Prime Minister Trudeau stated that he would not pursue a formal or informal coalition. Instead, the Prime Minister would seek the support for legislation in the new minority Parliament on a case-by-case basis.

“How the newly formed minority government chooses to address critical issues that will shape the inheritance we leave the next generation will be top of mind for many Canadians,” said Val Venneri, President of the Chamber. “Climate change, our declining economic competitiveness, the need to build a 21st Century workforce, coping with an aging population and the inadequacy of our infrastructure, continue to remain evergreen issues for members of the Timmins Chamber.”

Given this case-by-case legislative approach, the Chamber network is providing Parliamentarians with a guide to economic growth. It will seek to address important policy measures that the government or other parties have proposed, in particular those the Canadian Chamber and the network of over 450 local chambers in every part of the country, support.

The Roadmap to Prosperity outlines platform commitments from the major, national parties that will help address important issues facing our economy and that are currently supported by the Timmins Chamber and Canadian Chamber of Commerce. Despite the divisive election campaign, there is a surprising amount of common ground the government can find with the various opposition parties in Parliament among these issues.

“No organization better understands that a stronger economy puts more money in the pockets of Canadians through higher incomes and lower unemployment. A healthy economy means more government revenues to invest in public services, infrastructure projects and environmental protection and affords Canadians a more prosperous future,” added Venneri.

“We’re pleased to see priorities of key importance to our members highlighted in the guide. Addressing unfair tax treatment of family transfers of small business, moving forward with a Municipal Nominee Program focused on attracting highly skilled workers to Timmins, and a new tax credit for graduates to work in designated rural and Northern communities, are all commitments that are supported by the Chamber network,” said Venneri.

To read Roadmap to Prosperity: A Minority Parliament Guide to Economic Growth, click here.

Chamber calls for red tape reduction in new report, highlights that without growth, businesses cannot continue to support community-based organizations

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, ON | October 18, 2019— Today, the Chamber, in partnership with Wyatt Image Solutions, released a new report entitled the 2019 Business Confidence Report. The report presents a candid look at local private sector sentiment and opportunities for economic growth, while examining the barriers faced in conducting business in Timmins. The survey saw feedback from 135 locally operated businesses and offered participants the opportunity to weigh in on their most pressing local issues.

The report culminates with a number of timely recommendations including:

Promote and encourage entrepreneurs to join in roundtable discussions that seek to develop the framework that will attract and retain a more viable labour force;
Greater interaction with the City of Timmins. Regular consultation and information sharing will reduce vulnerabilities and better develop policies with the aim of fostering competitiveness; and
Increase accessibility and awareness for the Community Improvement Plan and assist entrepreneurs in navigating the application process to revitalize areas within their business.

Click here to read the 2019 Business Confidence Report.

Timmins Chamber policies successfully adopted by Canadian Chamber at Annual General Meeting in Saint Joh, NB

Wed, 25 Sep 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, ON | September 25, 2019— Representatives of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce—President Val Venneri, CAO Keitha Robson and Policy and Engagement Lead Cameron Grant—recently travelled to Saint John, New Brunswick to advance member priorities at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting.

The conference, which was hosted in concert with the Saint John Chamber’s 200^th Annual General Meeting, included presentations from political leaders and the opportunity to connect with over 300 Chamber delegates from across the country.

The highlight of the weekend’s proceedings featured the policy resolution debate where accredited Chamber representatives presented their respective priorities to the Chamber delegation. The Timmins Chamber introduced two made-in-Timmins resolutions which called for alignment on the Species At Risk Act and urged government to address the impact of climate change on Indigenous communities’ infrastructure—issues that impede growth for our natural resource industries. Both policy resolutions were heavily supported and have been successfully adopted as official Canadian Chamber policy positions.

“The policy debate is an important opportunity for the Timmins Chamber to elevate our members’ priorities,” said Chamber President Val Venneri. “Not only does it showcase how candid conversations from local business owners develop into impactful resolutions but demonstrates the value Chamber membership has in amplifying your voice to the highest levels of government.”

During the event, Timmins Chamber staff had the opportunity to speak with Canadian Chamber President and CEO Perrin Beatty, who echoed the importance of the Chamber Network.

“The decisions made by government are critical to the success of business. When the Chamber movement gets engaged across the country, it is main street Canada having an opportunity to talk to the Federal Government directly,” said Beatty. “All of our policy work that we have and all the recommendation that we make to government depends on the information we get from people like the business community in Timmins.”

Policy resolutions successfully adopted by the Chamber delegates will build the framework for the Canadian Chamber’s federal advocacy efforts for the next three years.

Timmins Chamber calls on policy makers to address regional imbalances critical to Northern Ontario’s future

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins Chamber calls on policy makers to address regional imbalances critical to Northern Ontario’s future

Timmins, ON | September 12, 2019 – Today, the Timmins Chamber is pleased to partner with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) in the release of a new report entitled, The Great Mosaic: Reviving Ontario’s Regional Economies. The report outlines how government of all levels can work with industry to unleash the potential of Northern Ontario’s regional economies and reinforce the competitiveness of the province as a whole.

After extensive participation from the Timmins Chamber, The Great Mosaic: Reviving Ontario’s Regional Economies examines the opportunities and challenges faced by Timmins as well as different communities across the province and offers a framework for thinking about the present and future of our regional economies.

The report identifies Northern Ontario as the only region seeing a population decline in Ontario. With an aging workforce and few entering the skilled trades, many Timmins Chamber members are impacted by a lack of access to skilled labour which impedes their ability to grow. Of the recommendations, perhaps the most pressing is a call for Provincial and Federal government to encourage workers to move to Northern communities with labour shortages.

“The Timmins Chamber has long heard of the barriers our members face in relation to access to reliable broadband internet, lack of available workforce with increasing numbers of outmigration. We’re pleased to be able to partner with the OCC to continue to advocate for a better business climate for our members,” said Nancy Mageau, Past-president of the Timmins Chamber.

“In the face of technological transformation and globalization, there is no question that Ontario has what it takes to succeed. We are optimistic that the province can successfully navigate the modern economy if we work together to unlock the economic potential of our communities,” said Mageau.

The OCC’s report makes 17 recommendations to strengthen the well-being of Ontario’s regions. Key takeaways include:

The most cost-effective way to drive economic development is to cultivate talent, trade, and infrastructure. Governments should make it a priority to upgrade transportation and energy networks, modernize their regulations and business supports, offer dynamic education and training opportunities, and encourage labour mobility.
Building regional capacity for innovation is fundamental to productivity and growth. This means improving commercialization and technology adoption, strengthening regional innovation centres, expanding broadband internet access, and facilitating cluster development.
Modern governance of economic development should empower a wide range of stakeholders including businesses, post-secondary institutions, and not-for-profit organizations outside government. Regional collaboration, economic reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, and the use of data are all critical to mobilizing local assets.

Rocco Rossi, President and CEO of the OCC echoed these comments, “We are only as strong as our weakest link and our ability to prosper depends on the strength of our different regions. Economic and population growth rates in the Greater Golden Horseshoe and Ottawa have far surpassed those in other areas of the province,” said Rossi. “Our communities – and the province as a whole – risk falling behind if we do not leverage the rich and diverse competitive advantages of our local economies.”

“We urge policymakers to take a modern and comprehensive approach to economic development by leveraging the existing competitiveness advantages of Ontario’s regions, and implement deliberate strategies to support long-term growth in communities across the province,” added Rossi.

Read the OCC’s report, The Great Mosaic: Reviving Ontario’s Regional Economies here.

Read the OCC’s full list of recommendations here.

Timmins Chamber and Chamber network calls on Province to unleash the economic potential of Ontario’s beverage alcohol sector

Mon, 22 Jul 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins Chamber and Chamber network calls on Province to unleash the economic potential of Ontario’s beverage alcohol sector Timmins, ON | July 22, 2019— Today, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce and Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) released a new report, Refreshing the Sale of Beverage Alcohol in Ontario. This report outlines how the Province could modernize the sale and distribution of beverage alcohol and responsibly promote growth across all four categories – wine, beer, spirits, and cider. Included in the key recommendations is a made-in-Timmins policy resolution that focuses on removing the antiquated inter-provincial trade barriers that was adopted by the OCC in 2018. The report finds that, despite public support for modernization, reform is a more complex undertaking than it appears at first glance, due to the complexity of legislation and regulation involved. As the government proceeds with reforms to beverage alcohol sales, the Timmins Chamber and OCC underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to avoid perpetuating inequities in the taxation and regulation of wine, beer, cider, and spirits that limit growth. “The power of the beverage alcohol sector to be a force for economic growth extends beyond just the expected industries. The production, distribution, and sale of alcohol has a ripple effect that benefits agriculture, tourism and hospitality, and retail in Northern Ontario,” stated Nancy Mageau, President of the Timmins Chamber. “Removing red tape and modernizing alcohol sales will ensure that our local brewers like Compass Brewing and Full Beard Brewing Co. have the tools they need to grow, thrive, and remain competitive and the Chamber is pleased to be able to advocate on their behalf.” These comments were echoed by Rocco Rossi, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber, “Ontarians want to see a more modern, convenient beverage alcohol retail system and we are closer than ever to substantive reforms to how alcohol is distributed, bought, and sold in Ontario,” says Rossi. “By removing barriers and levelling the playing field,” Rossi added, “The Province can unleash the potential of the beverage alcohol sector, support regional economic development, meet the needs of today’s consumer, and generate greater tax revenue to fund the public services on which Ontarians rely.” Refreshing the Sale of Beverage Alcohol in Ontario provides the Government of Ontario with a number of timely recommendations including: • Modernizing the sale of beverage alcohol by allowing beverage alcohol producers to sell their products on e-commerce marketplaces and platforms using third parties to process payments. • Alleviating tax burdens by reducing taxes on Ontario wines, aligning taxation levels for craft cider with those of craft beer, and applying a graduated tax to the current spirits basic tax. • Cutting red tape by reducing the reporting Ontario wineries and cideries have to complete from a monthly to quarterly basis, allowing Ontario spirits and craft beer producers with a retail store to sell their products at farmers’ markets, and providing airports with an exemption to allow for the sale of alcohol 24-hours-a-day. • Removing antiquated inter-provincial trade barriers by allowing consumers to purchase alcohol online from other provinces/territories and producers to deliver these products to the consumer’s home. “Having long advocated for the removal of inter-provincial trade barriers, the Timmins Chamber is pleased to see our policy resolution adopted in this important report. It is for reasons such as these that the Chamber is pleased to continue its lobby efforts on behalf of our members,” said Mageau. Read the OCC’s report, Refreshing the Sale of Beverage Alcohol in Ontario here.

Timmins Chamber announces 2019-2020 Board of Directors

Mon, 22 Jul 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Media Release

Timmins Chamber announces 2019-2020 Board of Directors

Timmins, ON | July 22, 2019—The results are in, and the members of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce have officially elected six individuals to represent them at the heart of the city’s largest business organization.

Coming from a range of business sectors and backgrounds, these six will sit on the Chamber’s 21-member board of directors, providing direction and guidance to the organization’s policy, advocacy and programs on behalf of its 650-plus members.

“The members of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce have elected a Board of Directors whose talent, passion and leadership will serve our business community well in the coming years,” said Val Venneri, incoming 2019-2020 Chamber president, and General Manager of James Toyota.

“Their unique and diverse perspectives will be crucial in translating our members’ needs into action, and I look forward to working with them this fall to help ensure that Timmins remains a great place to do business.”

The new additions to this year’s Board include Marc Caron, Caron Equipment Inc.; Kelly Mascioli, Mascioli Construction Co. Ltd.; Cory Robin, Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund NADF; and Kelly Torresan, Northern College.

Two directors who served on the Board last term were also elected to return: Dan Ayotte, PAIB Insurance Inc.; and Donna Dorrington, Dorrington and Associates Professional Corporation.

They will be officially sworn in during the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting, due to be held at the Porcupine Dante Club on Wednesday, Sept. 18.

Electronic and print ballots were sent out to each of the Chamber’s 1,100+ eligible voting members, who were given one month to cast their vote for their board representation. Each board member serves a two-year term, after which they can apply for re-election, for a maximum of three terms.

The following is the complete list of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce’s 2019-2020 Board of Directors:

President	Company
Val Venneri	James Toyota
1^st Vice-President	Company
Melanie Verreault	Trimeda Consulting Inc.

Past President	Company
Nancy Mageau	RBC Royal Bank
Board Members	Company
Joel Ahrens	MNP LLP
Scott Alexander	Restore Physiotherapy Timmins
Dan Ayotte	PAIB Insurance Inc.
Paul Brunet	Great White North Technology Consulting
Marc Caron	Caron Equipment Inc.
Stéphane Côté	Timmins Building Supplies
Donna Dorrington	Dorrington and Associates Professional Corp
Tammy Farrell	Scotiabank
Thomas Faught Jr.	RBC Dominion Securities
Kraymr Grenke *ON LEAVE	Wabun Tribal Council
Robert Knox	Knox Logistics
Natalie Levasseur	Smiles for Life Dental Hygiene Clinic
Kelly Mascioli	Mascioli Construction Co. Ltd.
Bryan Neeley	Newmont Goldcorp – Porcupine Gold Mines
Jason Perratt	Eclipse Financial Services
Cory Robin	Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund NADF
Mark Rogers	Near North Video Productions
Kelly Torresan	Northern College

Timmins Chamber and Rock On The River encourage business community to bare their best band tees

Fri, 28 Jun 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, ON | July 2, 2019— The Timmins Chamber has partnered with their member Timmins Festival and Events Committee (TFEC) to challenge the local business community to break out their best band t-shirts and bare them at work on July 5.

A fun-filled initiative for a Friday, the Chamber and TFEC are encouraging business owners and their employees to wear their favourite band shirts, snap a photo using the #finditINtimmins, #ROTRTimmins, and #BandShirtDay, and post to social media for a chance to win tickets to this year’s Rock On The River taking place July 26-27 at the Mountjoy Historical Participark.

“We’re calling on Timmins businesses to don their best Duran Duran, wear their favourite White Snake, bust out the Black Sabbath, and dust of that Def Leppard shirt and show some support for Rock On The River,” said Nancy Mageau, President of the Timmins Chamber.

“When we find it in Timmins, our business community can continue its many contributions to events such as the one hosted by TFEC and the Chamber is pleased to promote this fun initiative,” said Mageau.

Be sure to post by end of day Friday for your chance to win. For more information on how your business can participate, visit TFEC’s Facebook page at facebook.com/TimminsFestivals.

Timmins Chamber encourages local entrepreneurs to undertake formal business succession planning

Mon, 17 Jun 2019 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, ON | June 17, 2019: The Timmins Chamber of Commerce officially launched its Transition Planning report at their General Member Meeting at the Schumacher Lion’s Club on June 13. The report highlights key findings in a recent survey that asked local family-run enterprises how and when they plan to exit their business and what measures they have in place to ensure both their future financial security and continued success of their business.

“In continuing with identifying local projects of key importance to its members, the Timmins Chamber Municipal Affairs Committee undertook the task of conducting a transition planning survey,” said Val Venneri, Chair of the Municipal Affairs Committee. “The survey asked business owners where they are in the lifecycle of their business, how prepared they are to sell their business and if they are taking the steps necessary to realize the best price for their most valuable asset — their business,” added Venneri.

The report sheds light on the obstacles faced by soon-to-retire business owners, identifies their plans to acquisition a business, who their prospective buyers are, what their exit timelines are, and how they identify potential buyers. In the report, the committee examined whether business owners are taking steps to ensure they get top dollar for their business while securing its continued success.

Some unsettling statistics arose from the report which identified that many local small- to medium-sized entrepreneurs (SMEs) have no formal or informal succession plan in place.

“Without an existing transition plan, business owners may miss key steps in the sale of their business. Their financial security and continued success of the business are not only crucial to the future business owner, but to the prosperity of our local economy as well,” said Venneri.

Venneri added, “Transition planning can be daunting for owners of SMEs who lack the appropriate resources. The most cited barrier in transition planning and the eventual sale of their business is finding a buyer for their enterprise. Access to information on valuing their business ranked second in the list of barriers when it comes to transition planning. Without proper information, the process of financing a transition plan and valuing the business can be difficult, leaving many unsure of where to start.”

The recommendations and index of local Chamber member resources will seek to encourage our local business community to find value in planning, highlight how and where local professionals can help, and that government recognizes opportunities to assist with the coming shift.

To access the full report, click on the link below or visit timminschamber.on.ca

tinyurl.com/ChamberTransitionReport

Vote Prosperity Puts Business Issues at the Forefront for 2019 Election, says Timmins Chamber

Tue, 21 May 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Media Release

Vote Prosperity Puts Business Issues at the Forefront for 2019 Election, says Timmins Chamber

TIMMINS, ON | May 21, 2019—The Timmins Chamber, in collaboration with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, launched the Vote Prosperity platform to urge federal party leaders to put the needs of Canadian business front and centre in the upcoming federal election.

"Core issues, such as skilled labour and the need for greater immigration are suffocating Canadian competitiveness. If our local businesses cannot thrive, Canada cannot thrive. Today, we challenge all parties and local party candidates to support our small businesses by embracing all seven priorities of the Canadian Chamber’s election platform, Vote Prosperity," said Nancy Mageau, President of the Timmins Chamber. "These recommendations will help our local businesses create jobs, grow and strengthen our community."

Vote Prosperity calls on all federal parties to support Canada’s job creators by including these priorities in their election platforms:

• A tax system that is fair, efficient and modern;
• A regulatory system that works for everyone, including business;
• Access to new markets around the world and the elimination of trade barriers at home;
• Resources to help small- and medium-sized businesses grow and succeed at home and abroad;
• Innovation and infrastructure to make Canada the most connected country in the world;
• A workforce with the skills, education and training required to prosper; and
• A healthier pharmacare system for healthier Canadians.

"Canada’s political parties will spend the next several months focused only on improving their electoral outcomes. Today, we are asking them to look beyond their electoral horizons and do what businesses do every single day: focus on long-term growth and prosperity. That’s why we are challenging all politicians to support the priorities outlined in the Canadian Chamber’s platform, Vote Prosperity. Canadian businesses aren’t asking for a handout. They just want a fighting chance to compete and grow," said Hon. Perrin Beatty, P.C. O.C., President and Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Chamber of Commerce.

Heading into the 2019 federal election, the Timmins Chamber and the Canadian Chamber network will continue to engage with federal representatives to focus on reducing the overall taxation, regulatory burden, skilled labour and newcomer attraction as critical priorities for Canadian businesses owners to maintain their competitiveness and the prosperity of all Canadians.

The Timmins Chamber and the Canadian Chamber network are strictly apolitical, and our policy analyses should never be taken as partisan. All analyses are based solely upon whether a policy helps Canadian businesses be more competitive and aligns with the Canadian Chamber network’s existing policy platform.

Visit www.voteprosperityCA.ca to learn more about this initiative.

Nova 2019 Recipients Announced

Fri, 10 May 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Media Release

Key players of Timmins business community chest celebrated at 2019 Chamber Nova Awards

TIMMINS, ON | May 10, 2019: The game changers of local business have been announced at the region’s biggest celebration of entrepreneurial achievement at the McIntyre Arena on May 9, joined by a crowd of more than 700 people in celebration of the 2019 Nova Business Excellence Awards.

Hosted by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce, the sold-out gala once again cemented its status as the largest business awards event in northern Ontario, with 16 local firms and entrepreneurs honoured across a range of categories.

The strategic theme of “NOVA-OPOLY - the Game of Business” was used throughout the evening to help showcase the many ways that entrepreneurs are Timmins’ biggest players in the game, said Nancy Mageau, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“The Nova Awards are an important reminder of the many ways that our businesses work together to make Timmins truly great,” said Mageau.

“All of the entrepreneurs featured this evening, from the finalists to the recipients, truly deserve our recognition, and it’s clear from tonight’s packed house that Timmins clearly agrees.”

Chamber past president Art Pultz once again served as the event’s emcee, marking the 16^th time in the event’s 17-year history he has overseen the awards ceremony. Pultz helped to highlight the slate of more than 45 finalists who were honoured throughout the evening.

The Nova Awards recipients were carefully selected from a record-breaking 165 nominations by a committee of six independent community judges. These judges determine the award recipients based on the quality of the submissions; to ensure the validity of the results, this is done without any input or influence from the Chamber Board of Directors or staff. This independence also helps to make the event one that truly belongs to the community, said Mageau.

“They may not be building a real-estate empire on New York Avenue, but we can clearly see from these honourees that Timmins’ business owners and entrepreneurs deserve just as much recognition, given the incredible things they do in our community. Each one helps make Timmins a better place to work, live, and play.”

A photo gallery of the 2019 Nova Awards, spanning the finalists’ reception to the awards ceremony and post-event celebration, will be available at the Chamber’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TimminsChamber on Friday, May 10.

The recipients of the 2019 Nova Awards, and those who accepted on their behalf, are as follows:

BMT Insurance & Financial Services Business Contribution to the Community Award (1-5 Employees)	O’Reilly Sports *Reilly Heffernan, Owner*
The Venture Centre Business Contribution to the Community Award (6-10 Employees)	Foster Jane Eatery Michael Yorke, Owner and Chef
NorthernTel Business Contribution to the Community Award (11+ Employees)	Dailey’s Your Independent Grocer Darlene and Brian Dailey, Owners
FNETB Best Place to Work Award	Cain Safety Fire Protection Inc. Michael Cain, Owner
Goldcorp Young Professional Award	Brianna Demers *Owner - Just Beecause Chocolates and Confections*
RBC Marketing Award	Family Eye Care Dr. Karine Briand, Owner and Optometrist
National Bank Innovation Award	Mine Safety Solutions Anthony Gilin, President
Northern College Service Excellence Award	Steinberg & Mahn Ltd. Owner, Don Taylor and Darren Taylor
Caisse populaire Alliance New Business Award (Under 2 Years)	Certarus Ltd. Stéphane Gallant, Manager of Business Development
TD Bank Group Business of the Year Award (1-5 Employees)	Smiles for Life Dental Hygiene *Natalie Levasseur, Owner*
Scotiabank Business of the Year Award (6-10 Employees)	Vista Radio Scott Armstrong, Regional Manager, Ontario North
Kidd Operations Business of the Year Award (11+ Employees)	Soucie Salo Safety Timmins Inc. *Helen Poirier, Vice-President* *Ray Poirier, General Sales Manager*
De Beers Canada Indigenous Partnership Award	dB Hearing Inc. Katie Storring, Part-owner and Operator
City of Timmins Non-Profit Organization Award	Timmins Learning Centre Michelle Goulet, Executive Director
OPG Lifetime Business Achievement Award	The Brick *Brian Vacchino, Owner* *Linda Pasi – Manager*
President’s Award *Sponsored by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce*	De Beers Canada – Victor Mine Alistair Skinner, Mine General Manager

Key measures in Budget 2019 sees reasonable steps in building a stronger Northern Ontario business climate

Fri, 12 Apr 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Key measures in Budget 2019 sees reasonable steps in building a stronger Northern Ontario business climate, says Timmins Chamber

TIMMINS, ON, April 12, 2019— Yesterday, the Provincial government released the 2019 Ontario Budget, Protecting What Matters Most. The Timmins Chamber of Commerce’s overview finds Budget 2019 reaffirms the government’s commitment to restoring a balance of fiscal sustainability and critical investments in skills and infrastructure will promote long-term economic growth, especially in Northern Ontario.

“The Timmins Chamber is pleased to see to see numerous suggestions from our Pre-Budget Submission included in the Provincial Budget, and that they are taking reasonable steps to build a stronger, more sustainable Northern Ontario,” said Nancy Mageau, President of the Timmins Chamber. “The proposed investments in broadband infrastructure, skills development, and investment attraction will create real value for many in rural and remote regions across the north.”

“Our message to the government in advance of Budget 2019 had been clear: bring down the deficit, focus on competitive taxation, and choose strategic investments that contribute to Ontario’s long-term economic growth,” said Mageau.

These sentiments were shared by Rocco Rossi, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC). “With the government already moving swiftly with a number of measures aimed at reducing red tape and growing the economy such as the Making Ontario Open for Business Act, 2018, the Access to Natural Gas Act, 2018, and the Restoring Ontario’s Competitiveness Act, 2019, Budget 2019 will help to ensure Ontario businesses have as many opportunities as possible to compete on the global stage.”

Key items from Budget 2019 supported by the Ontario business community include:

Understanding the ability to recruit and retain talent is a critical factor to their competitiveness, Timmins Chamber and OCC have long advocated on behalf of its members to address the province’s skills mismatch. Modernizing Ontario’s apprenticeship system, improving the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program, and addressing the North Ontario’s skilled workforce shortage are all critical steps to create the workforce of the future.

Divided into two streams: a skilled-labour internship and an Indigenous internship,

the Northern Ontario Internship Program will be available to new entrants into the workforce, people transitioning careers, and the unemployed and underemployed.

: The Timmins Chamber and the OCC are pleased by the government’s $315 million investment in critical broadband and cellular infrastructure over the next five years. Access to high-speed internet is an essential requirement to ensure Northern businesses can remain competitive, much like our roads, bridges, and electricity. Regarding the government’s planned investments of $14.7 billion in the province’s infrastructure over the next ten years, the Chamber network hopes to see more details on the plan. The Timmins Chamber and OCC will continue to press the government to support the economy in Northern Ontario, and the prospective repeal of the Far North Act and amendment of the Public Lands Act in order to reduce red tape and restrictions that are blocking important economic development projects in the Far North of Ontario including the Ring of Fire, all-season roads and electrical transmission projects for communities.

The government has announced the creation of a Mining Working Group to focus on reducing red tape and attracting major new investments. The group- which will include members from mining and exploration companies, prospectors and Indigenous business organizations- will provide the Province with input on important issues affecting the minerals sector, while identifying opportunities to ensure future growth, competitiveness and prosperity.

Building a more competitive tax environment is critical to fueling investment, innovation, and economic growth across Ontario, particularly in times of fiscal limitation. The Ontario Job Creation Investment Incentive will provide much-needed tax relief for industry while promoting investment and job growth. The Timmins Chamber and OCC also continue to urge the government to help small businesses scale-up by creating a variable small business tax rate.

“While Northern Ontario communities, especially Timmins, experienced employment growth last year, there is more to be done. Communities like ours face unique economic and demographic challenges to growth, including a lack of economic diversification, aging populations, out-migration, and gaps in infrastructure,” added Mageau. “We’re pleased the government recognizes the significant contribution that rural and Northern Ontario communities make to the economy and that this budget aims to put Northern Ontario at the forefront to help ensure our communities can improve our competitiveness and attract investment.”

Read the Provincial Budget 2019

Read the OCC’s Rapid Policy Update

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Key investments remain priority for Timmins business community ahead of Province’s Budget 2019

Thu, 04 Apr 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Media Release

Key investments remain priority for Timmins business community ahead of Province’s Budget 2019, says Timmins Chamber

TIMMINS, ON, April 4, 2019— Today, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) released a report, Accounting for Ontario’s Debt, which offers a balanced analysis of the province’s debt just ahead of Budget 2019. The report highlights Ontario’s current debt, which amounts to approximately 41 percent of the provincial GDP or, when combined with the federal debt of $680 billion, represents a near 80 percent debt-to-GDP ratio for Ontarians.

In Feb of this year, the OCC released there Ontario Economic Report (OER) in which nearly 80 percent of respondent businesses stated they were concerned about the impact the provincial debt could have on Ontario’s economy. Managing the provincial debt has been a long-standing concern for the business community as Ontario’s fiscal health directly impacts the ability of Northern Ontario businesses to remain competitive and capitalize on new opportunities. The OER also indicated that Northern Ontario businesses’ main area of concern remains in a declining population and as a result, a shortage in an available workforce, embracing technological innovations, and the cost of doing business—including regulation, taxation, and input prices—remain major sources of concern.

Today’s report notes Ontario is in a unique situation when it comes to managing its debt. Ontario has the debt exposure of a national government yet does not have generous lending fundamentals afforded to the federal government. With a GDP of nearly $850 billion, the province accounts for nearly half of Canada’s GDP. This means Ontario cannot rely on the protection of the national government when embarking on investments which aim to drive economic growth and prosperity. That is why the Timmins Chamber and the OCC have long called for investments in areas such as transit and transportation, connecting link funding, broadband internet, health care, skills and education, and trade promotion. These key investments will help grow the economy and allow our local businesses to flourish, jobs to be created, and, ultimately, Ontario to be more competitive and prosperous.

“When discussing how to account for Ontario’s debt, our report calls on the public and government to have a frank conversation. Priority must be placed on understanding the opportunity costs stemming from deficit spending, tax increases and spending cuts. With that in mind, we ask that the government prioritize good debt maintenance by running an efficient government while also investing in growth and development, especially in the North,” says Nancy Mageau, President of the Timmins Chamber. “One thing is certain: government decisions in Budget 2019 regarding Ontario’s debt will have profound effects on our local industry and community for years to come.”

This concern was shared by Rocco Rossi, president and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. “As the province heads into a time of economic uncertainty, coupled with the possibility of rising interest rates, we urge the government to focus on balancing continued investments in economic development with putting the province’s finances on steady footing,” said Rossi. “Paying down the debt should not be at the risk of long-term economic growth or needed investments in infrastructure and services that will have a high return on taxpayer dollars, helping to bolster industry and our economy for generations to come.

Our message in advance of Budget 2019 is about balance: accounting for our province’s debt in a reasonable manner while focusing on key investments and competitive taxation is critical to a stronger Ontario and competing on the global stage.”

When it comes to addressing the debt and deficit, the Timmins Chamber and OCC’s report will act as a reference for debate and change as well as inform thoughtful, evidence-based policies with an eye towards fiscal balance and strategic spending. As the independent, voice of business, the Timmins Chamber and the OCC will be working with leaders in government and Timmins’ business community to help develop the necessary solutions in addressing Ontario’s debt challenge to drive forward a stronger and more competitive region, and province.

Read the full report, Accounting for Ontario’s Debt here.

Timmins Chamber of Commerce heading to Queen’s Park to represent local business community during ‘Advocacy Day’

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Media Release

Timmins Chamber of Commerce heading to Queen’s Park to represent local business community during ‘Advocacy Day’

Timmins, ON | March 20, 2019— Representatives of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce—Board member Rob Knox, CAO Keitha Robson and Policy and Engagement Lead Cameron Grant—will be heading to the provincial capital on Mar. 25 to engage with legislators and their staff as part of Advocacy Day 2019.

The event, which is organized by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, will include visits with several Provincial Government ministers and staff, with opportunities to have conversations outlining the position of Timmins businesses regarding various issues.

The full-day event will include attendance at Queen’s Park question period, town hall meetings with government and opposition MPPs, small group consultations with the ministries of Labour, Energy Northern Development and Mines, and Infrastructure, culminating with a reception with MPPs.

‘These conversations are important as we continue our advocacy efforts on behalf of our business community,” said Knox.

“Although this is an event that brings together representatives from Chambers across the province, we will be bringing our made-in-Timmins resolutions that address permitting delays for mining exploration, as well as forestry and workforce shortage strategies that are of local importance to our members.”

Federal budget insufficiently focused on business, says Timmins Chamber

Wed, 20 Mar 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Media Release

Federal budget insufficiently focused on business, says Timmins Chamber

Timmins, ON | March 20, 2019— Yesterday, the Government of Canada unveiled its 2019 Federal Budget, Investing in the Middle Class. Though there are some measures in the budget that may benefit Timmins businesses and entrepreneurs, it also contains several measures that threaten competitiveness and growth, according to the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

Budget 2019 includes several new spending measures targeted at first-time home buyers, additional support for skills training for workers, and increased access to high-speed internet to rural, remote and northern communities.

Although Canada’s has outperformed many of its peers recently, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce has encouraged the federal government to take a fiscally prudent approach in the face of increasing economic uncertainty.

“The competitiveness of our businesses — small or large — has never been more important than it is in the current global climate and we continue to call for governments to enact measures to encourage private sector capital investment and job creation,” said Nancy Mageau, President of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“Businesses in Timmins and across Canada need a tax system that actually encourages investment, rather than make it more challenging or businesses to grow and thrive. Today’s budget makes it even more clear that Canada needs a complete and independent review of the federal tax system, and that’s something we will continue to work with our national partners to advocate for.”

However, Mageau added that there are some positive measures of interest to Timmins businesses in the budget, including:

Multiple funding mechanisms to ensure that high-speed internet access is Canada-wide by 2030, with $1.7 billion specifically earmarked for rural, remote and Northern communities;

$631.2 million to expand Work-Integrated-Learning (WIL) programs, with a view to create up to 20,000 new WIL opportunities outside of STEM-related fields;

$150 million to create new partnerships between government and industry to create up to 20,000 new WIL opportunities; and

Multiple funding mechanisms to enhance apprentice programs in skilled trades.

These items in particular stand as important means of addressing some prominent gaps, and will certainly prove beneficial for Timmins’ economy, said Mageau.

“We certainly appreciate some of the positive items that the government has introduced in this budget, but there are still too few measures to ensure that our businesses can remain competitive in an increasingly challenging global market. That also means that the Canadian economy itself must remain on strong footing, but that also means having a realistic plan to bring things back into balance.”

Some key items the Budget did not address, however, is a broad-based commitment to reduce the regulatory burden on businesses and a renewed commitment to eliminating inter-provincial trade barriers and mobility- something for which the Timmins Chamber strongly advocated in a policy resolution supported by the Canadian Chamber last April.

This concern was shared by Perrin Beatty, President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, who said that there simply isn’t enough in the budget to address the changing fiscal reality for today’s entrepreneur.

“The core issues facing our economy that are driving away investment and suffocating our ability to attract top talent are broken taxation and regulatory systems and an inability to get our resources to tidewater. Without addressing the underlying, structural problems in our economy, we will not see the growth needed to create greater prosperity for Canadian families,” said the Honorable Perrin Beatty, President and CEO, Canadian Chamber of Commerce.

Heading into the 2019 Federal Election, the Timmins Chamber and Chamber network will continue to engage with Federal representatives to focus on reducing the overall taxation, regulatory burden, and workforce shortages as critical priorities for Timmins businesses to maintain competitiveness and prosperity.

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2019 Nova Awards finalists announced

Tue, 05 Mar 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Media Release

Finalists announced for 2019 Nova Business Excellence Awards

TIMMINS, ON | March 5, 2019: The finalists for the 2019 Nova Business Excellence Awards have been rolled out, as the Timmins Chamber of Commerce has announced the 45 game-changers of Timmins business who will strut and fret the monopoly board as finalists at the region’s biggest celebration of entrepreneurial achievement.

A record-breaking 165 nominations were submitted across 15 award categories for this year’s May 9 event, and were narrowed to three finalists per category by a panel of independent community judges. These finalists will be celebrated with a “NOVA-OPOLY - the Game of Business” theme to showcase the many ways these entrepreneurs are Timmins’ biggest players in the game, said Nancy Mageau, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“This year’s slate of incredible nominees is yet another reminder that even though they may not own railroads or high-rise buildings on New York Avenue, Timmins’ business leaders are just as competitive and dedicated to building an empire in their own fields, and they deserve our recognition,” said Mageau.

“It’s clear from this list of finalists that our local entrepreneurs are truly making their mark on the board, which is why we’re looking forward to celebrating the best of Timmins business at the Nova Awards on May 9.”

Now in its 17th year, the annual awards gala is dedicated to Timmins business success stories, and highlights their positive impact on the region and its economy. As such, this annual celebration of business is a crucial one, said Mageau.

“Our businesses consistently work with each other and the community to help make Timmins a great place to work, live, and play. It’s why we’re honoured to have spent 17 years making sure their achievements are recognized and we look forward to more than 700 attendees joining us at the Nova Awards to help us celebrate this unforgettable evening.”

Tickets to the gala event will go on sale March 21 at $150 plus HST, or $120 plus HST for Chamber members, and tables of 10 are available. Ticket reservations can be made via email at info@timminschamber.on.ca

A photo gallery of finalists receiving their notifications is available on the Chamber's Facebook page.

2019 Nova Business Excellence Awards Finalists

BMT Insurance & Financial Services Business Contribution to the Community Award (1-5 Employees)

Lemongrass

O’Reilly Sports

The Barber Shop

The Venture Centre Business Contribution to the Community Award (6-10 Employees)
Foster Jane Eatery

McIntyre Coffee Shop

Mendonca Law Office

NorthernTel Business Contribution to the Community Award (11+ Employees)

Dailey’s Your Independent Grocer

J.L. Richard’s & Associates Limited

Rehab Plus Rehabilitation & Fitness Centre

FNETB Best Place to Work Award

Cain Safety Fire Protection Inc.

Caron Equipment Inc.

Rainville Foot Health

Goldcorp Young Professional Award

Brianna Demers - Just Beecause Chocolates and Confections

Rachel Pessah - Bright Spot Therapy Services

Sylvie Lamothe - Rebel Soul Tribe

RBC Marketing Award

Compass Brewing

Ellery, Ellery, Guillemette & Prabucki

Family Eye Care

National Bank Innovation Award

DJB Mining Products & Services Ltd.

Mine Safety Solutions

Radical Gardens

Northern College Service Excellence Award

Majestic Professional Consulting

Steinberg & Mahn Ltd.

Viel Auto Body & Collision Inc.

Caisse Populaire Alliance New Business Award (Under 2 Years)

Borealis Fresh Farms

Certarus

Starbucks Timmins

TD Bank Group Business of the Year Award

(1-5 Employees)

Little Bit Western

Porcupine Advance Printers

Smiles for Life Dental Hygiene Clinic

Scotiabank Business of the Year Award

(6-10 Employees)

360 Services Inc.

Northern Ontario Audiology Services

Vista Radio

Kidd Operations Business of the Year Award (11+ Employees)

De Beers Canada- Victor Mine

EACOM Timber Corporation

Soucie Salo Safety Inc.

De Beers Canada Indigenous Partnership Award

dB Hearing Inc.

Exsics Exploration Ltd.

Northern College

City of Timmins Non-Profit Organization

Award

Centre Culturel La Ronde Inc.

Timmins Learning Centre

Timmins Snowmobile Club

OPG Lifetime Business Achievement Award

Pat Picard School of Dance

The Brick

Western Auto Sales

President’s Award

To be announced at the Nova Awards on May 9

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Northern Ontario businesses show increase in confidence despite workforce shortages and stagnant population growth

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Media Release

Northern Ontario businesses show increase in confidence despite workforce shortages and stagnant population growth: report

Timmins, ON | February 19, 2019 – Nearly 60 percent of northeastern Ontario businesses say they are confident in Ontario’s economic future, according to the 2019 Ontario Economic Report, issued this week by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) in partnership with the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

This is a seven-point increase from the previous year, as revealed in the 2019 Ontario Economic Report (OER)’s annual business confidence survey.

“Businesses are gaining confidence in themselves,” said Nancy Mageau, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“Many Timmins businesses believe their organization’s revenues will increase or stay the same over the next twelve months, with only fourteen percent anticipating a decline. This represents a notable change in direction from 2018.”

At the same time, challenges relating to access to talent, embracing technological innovations, and the cost of doing business—including regulation, taxation, and input prices—remain major sources of concern. The report indicates that northern Ontario businesses’ main area of concern is a declining population and as a result, a shortage in an available workforce.

“Ontario’s overall prosperity depends on the strength of its regional economies, yet these vulnerabilities are expected to be most acutely felt in rural regions of the province. We should all be concerned that the province’s employment growth has been largely concentrated in the Greater Golden Horseshoe since 2003, while other regions have experienced slow or even negative growth during that same period,” said Rocco Rossi, President and CEO of the OCC.

Tackling many of these issues will be a major focus for the Ontario Chamber in 2019, which will also work on some specific areas of interest for northeastern Ontario. In particular, the Ontario Chamber will look to address northern Ontario’s labour shortages and decreasing population, in part due to continued advocacy by the Timmins Chamber on topics such as a service skills strategy. The Timmins Chamber will continue to work directly with the Ontario Chamber network throughout the coming months to address barriers that impact local businesses.

The OER contains several different perspectives on Ontario’s economy, produced by different partners for the Ontario Chamber: this includes the Business Confidence Survey, as conducted by Navigator; a Business Prosperity Index, as developed by the Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis (CANCEA), and a 2019 Economic Outlook, as prepared by BMO Financial Group.

Read the 2019 Ontario Economic Report here.

Key priorities for the Timmins Chamber of Commerce 2019 Pre-Budget Submission

Tue, 22 Jan 2019 00:00:00 GMT

Key priorities for the Timmins Chamber of Commerce’s 2019 Pre-Budget Submission urging government to build a stronger Northern Ontario and create a business climate which encourages growth Timmins, ON | January 22, 2019— Today, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce provided the Government of Ontario with six tangible recommendations for the upcoming provincial budget. Held at the Senator Hotel, Chamber President Nancy Mageau presented to the Ontario Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs with the membership’s top priorities to create a strong business climate for the City of Timmins. Proactive in voicing the concerns of its 650 members with respect to local, provincial and federal government policy while actively addressing educational, civic, social and economic issues, the Chamber was invited to share a seven-minute presentation before the committee. “Small businesses are the backbone of the economy and the heart of our community. Yet, cumulative red tape, economic uncertainty, and a system that discourages growth have led to a staggering scale-up challenge for businesses of all sizes across Ontario,” said Mageau. The Chamber’s presentation included recommendations on key topics such as permitting delays for mining exploration, the newly imposed Municipal Accommodation Tax, a service skills strategy to boost enrolment in the trades, the development of a long-term transportation plan with regards to connecting link funding, enhancing fiscal capacity for municipalities, and increasing broadband to businesses in northern communities. The committee was particularly interested in the Chamber’s service skill strategy policy resolution that urges the provincial government to address the workforce shortage felt by many within the membership. “We are encouraging the government to address these challenges, focusing on fiscal balance and smarter spending in the upcoming budget to help Northern Ontario businesses today and into the future,” added Mageau. The Timmins Chamber also recommends removing red tape for small and medium businesses to access procurement opportunities, leading to employment, economic growth, innovation, and cluster development. “Northern Ontario has a unique economy prone to boom and bust cycles. Our economy largely depends on non-renewable natural resources, and we must balance the need for sustainability of our economy with sustainability of our communities,” Mageau said. “While Northerners often feel alienated and left out of the decision-making process, the future is the one thing we all have in common. We would like to remind the provincial government that what is good for the north is also good for the south.” The Timmins Chamber looks forward to working with the government to support evidence-based policies that drive growth and contribute to a stronger Northern Ontario for all.

2019 Nova Awards nominations now open

Thu, 13 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins Chamber calling on businesses’ biggest players for 2019 Nova Awards

TIMMINS, ON | December 13, 2018 The Timmins Chamber of Commerce is asking for the champions of local business to lay their cards on the table, as nominations are now open for the 2019 Nova Business Excellence Awards.

To be held at the McIntyre Arena on Thursday, May 9, the Nova Awards are the region’s largest celebration of entrepreneurial achievement, and help to recognize the best of Timmins business across 15 categories. This year’s event will feature the theme of “NOVA-OPOLY - the Game of Business” to help showcase all the many ways that Timmins’ entrepreneurs are the city’s treasures of the community chest, according to Timmins Chamber President Nancy Mageau.

“Many of Timmins’ business leaders are experts in their game- continually passing GO and collecting the appreciation of the business community, year after year. The evening is a fantastic way to recognize their commitment, creativity and achievements in their fields,” said Mageau.

“Each year, the Nova Awards encourages our business leaders to get out a connect with each other, so if you know a game-changer worthy of recognition, be sure to give them a nomination. Even the best can’t be celebrated unless they’re nominated.”

Nominees are now being accepted for the following awards:

BMT Insurance & Financial Services Business Contribution to the Community Award (1-5 Employees)
The Venture Centre Business Contribution to the Community Award (6-10 Employees)
NorthernTel Business Contribution to the Community Award (11+ Employees)
FNETB Best Place to Work Award
Goldcorp Young Professional Award
RBC Marketing Award
National Bank Innovation Award
Northern College Service Excellence Award
Caisse Populaire Alliance New Business Award (Under 2 Years)
TD Bank Group Business of the Year Award (1-5 Employees)
Scotiabank Business of the Year Award (6-10 Employees)
Kidd Operations Business of the Year Award (11+ Employees)
De Beers Canada Indigenous Partnership Award
City of Timmins Non-Profit Organization Award
OPG Lifetime Business Achievement Award

“The Nova Awards are one of the Chamber’s signature events, with more than 700 people from across the region regularly in attendance. Now in its 17^th year, the 2019 event promises to put on quite the evening as it upholds its reputation as a spectacular way to celebrate business success in Timmins,” said Mageau.

“From solitaire to games of strategy- whatever their preference, our businesses deserved to be recognized for the countless ways they help to make Timmins a great place to work, live and play. The nomination process can even be done online, so if you know a Nova-worthy business, now’s the time get them in the game.”

Nomination packages are available online at https://tinyurl.com/NovaAwards19, and will be accepted until February 1, 2019. Finalists will be notified on March 5.

Tickets for the Nova Awards will go on sale March 21, 2019.

Long-term transportation plan needed to address Northern Ontario’s business and resident transportation needs

Fri, 07 Dec 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Media Release

Long-term transportation plan needed to address Northern Ontario’s business and resident transportation needs

Timmins, ON | December 3, 2018— The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC), in partnership with the Timmins Chamber of Commerce and the Chamber network, released Moving Forward: A Strategic Approach to Ontario’s Transportation Needs, a policy report calling on the Ontario Government to develop a Long-Term Transportation Plan. To address the current and future transportation needs of the province, the report highlights three areas of opportunity that will help improve the mobility of Northern Ontarians.

“Transportation is the backbone of our economy, affecting the movement of people and goods and the everyday lives of Northern businesses,” said Nancy Mageau, President of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce. “Yet limited transit connectivity, aging assets, unique regional needs, and a historic under-investment in infrastructure have led to a significant gap between the actual and needed infrastructure in the North. This has led to real challenges faced by Northern Ontario residents and businesses every single day.”

The OCC developed thirteen tangible and pragmatic transportation recommendations for a stronger Ontario within three key areas of opportunity. This approach will help to address the current and future transportation needs of the province with a focus on:

Transit planning governance;
Moving people and goods by rail; and
Autonomous vehicles (AV)

While Ontario was the first province to implement a pilot regulatory framework to allow for the testing of driverless technologies, the report questions the readiness of the province for the reality of AVs in the near future, noting that Northern roadways are currently ill-equipped to accommodate such vehicles. The Chamber network urges all levels of government to work together with industry voices to attract future investments, innovation, and jobs, as well as ensure Ontario is the first province to reap the benefits associated with this technology.

The report also points to short- and long-term opportunities for the return of passenger rail to Northern Ontario.

“Northern Ontario businesses view transportation infrastructure as critical to their competitiveness,” added Mageau. “Moving forward, the province needs a plan that is strategic, provides value for public dollars, optimizes existing assets, and takes into account the unique needs of transportation in the North.”

The Timmins Chamber and the OCC have been active on the transportation file for years, looking at transit and transportation governance, the use of rail for the movement of both people and goods, and the province’s autonomous vehicle readiness. Their recent policy report on transportation makes the case for a Long-Range Transportation Plan that can deliver a strategy for better managing the province’s interconnected transportation assets and serving the needs of both Northern Ontario businesses and residents.

Read the Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s report: Moving Forward: A Strategic Approach to Ontario’s Transportation Needs.

Business Takes the Lead - 100 People Who Care

Tue, 30 Oct 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Media Release

Timmins Chamber’s Business Takes the Lead committee launches 100 People Who Care campaign

Timmins, ON | October 30, 2018— The Timmins Chamber of Commerce Business Takes the Lead committee announces the launch of their 100 People Who Care campaign at the location of their member PAIB Insurance Inc.

The Chamber’s new donation initiative will see quarterly contributions of $100 to the pooled, potential sum of $10,000 to a local Timmins charity or organization. The creation of the 100 People Who Care campaign came from the numerous projects seeking community and Chamber member support.

“For those looking to learn more about the many worthy community programmes servicing Timmins, this initiative is a simple way to join a group of dedicated individuals seeking to make an immediate, direct, and positive contribution to local charity-run programmes,” said Ayotte, Chair of Business Takes the Lead and President of PAIB Insurance Inc.

“Recipients of this quarterly-based collaborative undertaking will be the combined efforts of nominations from donors, then the Business Takes the Lead committee narrows to a ballot of three, resulting in a final vote by the donors determining the recipient,” said Ayotte. “Any contributing member can nominate a local, nationally registered charity capable of issuing a tax receipt. One-hundred percent of the proceeds will go to the selected recipient to assist with the cost of their project.”

“It’s simple- we donate, we nominate, we vote,” said Ayotte.

People looking to get on board can join the Chamber’s Facebook group ‘100 People Who Care – Timmins’ or contact the Chamber directly.

Chamber highlights yearly successes at 69th Annual General Meeting

Thu, 13 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Press Release

Chamber highlights yearly successes at 69th Annual General Meeting

TIMMINS, ON, September 13, 2018—The Timmins Chamber of Commerce highlighted a year’s worth of successes for the business community at the organization’s 69^th Annual General Meeting and President’s Dinner on Sept. 12.

Hosted at the Senator Hotel, the event allowed more than 160 attendees to hear from immediate past president Jamie Clarke, who outlined the many things the Chamber achieved through the 2017-2018 year as a result of the support of its 650 members.

This included many policy and advocacy victories on member-driven issues such as natural resource-related infrastructure and permitting, Indigenous partnerships, maintaining Ontario mining tax rates, workforce shortages, and more. This work has also involved partnerships with the Ontario and Canadian Chambers to tackle broader concerns like interprovincial trade and protecting the tourism industries’ competitiveness in regards to the municipal accommodation tax. To help share information on these and other issues, the Timmins Chamber also hosted nearly 60 informational and networking events, while extending more than 90 member-to-member discounts to help businesses with their bottom line.

The year also saw the election of a strong 2018-2019 Board of Directors, which joined Chamber President Nancy Mageau of RBC in being officially sworn in by Timmins’ Mayor Steve Black as part of the evening’s proceedings.

The evening also served to celebrate certain individuals who have made significant contributions to the Chamber and the business community.

This year’s Service Award was given to Ginette Nakashoji of MNP LLP, in recognition of her six years of dedicated service to the Chamber’s board of directors -- the maximum amount of time someone can consecutively serve.

“Over the years, Ginette has committed considerable time and energy to the Chamber, and to the members,” said Clarke. “She has been a valuable Board member, and her contributions have always been greatly appreciated.”

Melanie Verreault of Trimeda Consulting Inc. was the recipient of this year’s Alex Klimack Award, which serves to recognize an outstanding volunteer for their hard work and commitment not only to the Chamber but the community as a whole. Verreault is well known for her dedication to improving the business community and connecting people and organizations, which was certainly on full display throughout 2017-2018, according to Clarke.

“This individual has been a long-time Chamber champion, having served on the board for a few years their dedication does not go unnoticed. The impact of the work that she has invested will be felt by the Chamber, our members, and the business community for years to come.”

Attendees of the Annual General Meeting were also able to hear from the evening’s keynote speaker, Phil Fontaine, former National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations and Special Advisor to RBC, about the history of residential schools, the significance in working towards reconciliation, and how communities can build respectful business partnerships with Indigenous peoples.

Ontario Chamber network calls on Provincial Government to immediately repeal Bill 148

Fri, 07 Sep 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Media Release

Ontario Chamber Network Calls on Provincial Government to Immediately Repeal Bill 148: Timmins Chamber of Commerce and Ontario Chamber of Commerce

Timmins, ON | September 7, 2018— The Timmins Chamber of Commerce joins the Ontario Chamber networks in calling on the Government of Ontario to immediately repeal the drastic labour reforms introduced by Bill 148, the Fair Workplaces Better Jobs Act, 2017. Recent testimonials from the Ontario business community showcase a common theme - the labour reforms established by the previous government were too much, too fast and have significantly limited their ability to maintain or grow the workforce they need to be competitive.

“Businesses in Timmins are experiencing real consequences from this legislation’s lack of substantive stakeholder consultation and unrealistic implementation timelines,” said Nancy Mageau, Timmins Chamber President. “Premier Ford pledged to make Ontario ‘Open for Business’ by implementing policies that make it easier to invest, start, and grow a business in the province as well as build an economy that connects workers to jobs. This begins with the reversal of Bill 148.”

Over the coming weeks, the Ontario Chamber Network and the Timmins Chamber of Commerce will provide feedback on the impacts of these legislative changes, such as the need for businesses to decrease staff hours and capital investment, and increase reliance on automation.

While the Timmins Chamber of Commerce supports the minimum wage remaining at $14 an hour, the Ontario business community must be appropriately consulted, and a comprehensive economic impact analysis needs to be completed before any further changes to employment legislation are made.

“We encourage the local business community to join us in calling on the government to take immediate action,” said Mageau. “The Chamber is dedicated to working collaboratively with the provincial government to strengthen business competitiveness and economic prosperity for Timmins.”

Timmins Chamber board member Alicia Pirie on leave during municipal election

Fri, 24 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Media Release

Timmins Chamber board member on leave during municipal election

Timmins, ON | July 31, 2018—The Timmins Chamber of Commerce has announced that Donna Dorrington-Black has taken a leave of absence from its Board of Directors in light of her candidacy for city councillor in the Oct. 22 municipal election.

This move is required by the Chamber’s by-laws, which are designed in part to protect its status as an independent, apolitical organization.

The Chamber wishes all candidates the very best in the Oct. 22 election, and looks forward to working with them to address the issues that matter most to its members, as identified in its recent report, A Timmins That Works: Business Priorities for the 2018 Municipal Election.

Timmins Chamber to close Schumacher license bureau

Mon, 20 Aug 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Press Release

Timmins Chamber to cease operation of Schumacher license bureau

TIMMINS, ON, July 19, 2018— In response to a decline in demand, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce has announced that it will cease operation of its Schumacher ServiceOntario office on Aug. 30, 2018.

Under contract with the Ministry of Government Services, the Chamber has provided driver’s license and health card services at its 76 McIntyre Road location for much of the organization’s 69-year history. However, a rise in the public use of online services and higher operational expenses have led to the difficult decision to scale back this component of the Chamber’s business, according to President Jamie Clarke.

"After considerable consideration and review, it is with regret that the Board of Directors has made the strategic decision to terminate our contract with the Ministry," said Clarke.

"The licence bureau has long been an integral part of our operations, but following several years of analyzing client trends, we have determined that it is no longer viable to offer these services. While we applaud the government for expanding the online availability of these services, the growing popularity of this approach has steadily led to a reduced demand for in-person services. As such, we will be working with the Ministry to ensure there will be minimal impact to the public."

The Chamber encourages any users affected by the Aug. 30 closure to alternatively visit the ServiceOntario office located at the 101 Mall (38 Pine St. North), located 2.4 kilometres from the Chamber office.

Timmins Chamber board member on leave during municipal election

Tue, 31 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

This move is required by the Chamber’s by-laws, which are designed in part to protect its status as an independent, apolitical organization.

Per these by-laws, any Director who runs for public office shall take a leave of absence from their position for the duration of an election campaign. If they’re successfully elected, that person shall be considered resigned from the Chamber Board; otherwise, they may reclaim their position with the Chamber.

The Chamber wishes all candidates the very best in the Oct. 22 election, and looks forward to working with them to address the issues that matter most to its members, as identified in its recent report, A Timmins That Works: Business Priorities for the 2018 Municipal Election.

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

With over 600 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Media contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900

Timmins Chamber announces 2018-2019 Board of Directors

Mon, 16 Jul 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The results are in, and the members of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce have officially elected six individuals to represent them at the heart of the city’s largest business organization.

“The members of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce have elected a Board of Directors whose talent, passion and leadership will serve our business community well in the coming years,” said Nancy Mageau, incoming 2018-2019 Chamber president, and commercial account manager, RBC Royal Bank.

The new additions to this year’s Board include Paul Brunet, CEO of Great White North Technology Consulting; Tammy Farrell, small business advisor at Scotiabank; Robert Knox, president of Knox Logistics; and Mark Rogers, owner/operator of Near North Video Productions.

Two directors who served on the Board last term were also elected to return: Monique Koski, co-president of Millson Forestry Service; and Melanie Verreault, president of Trimeda Consulting Inc./Esso Truck Stop/Kreb Inc.

They will be officially sworn in during the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting, due to be held at the Porcupine Dante Club on Wednesday, Sept. 12.

The following is the complete list of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce’s 2018-2019 Board of Directors:

President	Company
Nancy Mageau	Royal Bank of Canada
1^st Vice-President	Company
Val Venneri	James Toyota

Past President	Company
Jamie Clarke	Tisdale Plumbing Heating & Electrical
Board Members	Company
Scott Alexander	Restore Physiotherapy Timmins
Dan Ayotte	PAIB Insurance Inc.
Alicia Pirie	Chic Baby & Kids
Paul Brunet	Great White North Technology Consulting
Stéphane Côté	Timmins Building Supplies
Donna Dorrington	Dorrington and Associates Professional Corporation
Tammy Farrell	Scotiabank
Larry Gubbels	Wyatt Image Solutions Inc.
Frank Haasen	Haasen Farms
Robert Knox	Knox Logistics
Monique Koski	Millson Forestry Service
Natalie Levasseur	Smiles for Life Dental Hygiene Clinic
Chantal Magny	Narrative Interiors
Jean-Pierre Nadon	Collège Boréal
Bryan Neeley	Goldcorp – Porcupine Gold Mines
Jason Perratt	Eclipse Financial Services
Mark Rogers	Near North Video Productions
Melanie Verreault	Trimeda Consulting Inc.

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Media contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900

Timmins Chamber issues business priorities for 2018 municipal election

Mon, 18 Jun 2018 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, ON, June 20, 2018—To provide candidates with strategies for a thriving city, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce has released A Timmins That Works: Business Priorities for the 2018 Municipal Election, a policy platform focusing on cost control and business growth.

Built by the Chamber in consultation with local firms and entrepreneurs, A Timmins That Works outlines the business community’s most pressing recommendations for building a strong economic future beyond the Oct. 22 municipal election.

“By issuing our top municipal priorities months prior to the election, and just weeks before the July 27 nomination deadline, we hope that this document will be used by candidates as they build their own platforms and seek to better understand the specific interests of our businesses,” said Jamie Clarke, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“This is crucial, because businesses are the backbone of Timmins’ economy. By helping them to invest and succeed, while also focusing on fiscal responsibility, our next municipal council can truly create a strong, sustainable future.”

With these goals as its foundation, A Timmins That Works outlines eight specific recommendations for a strong, sustainable city. These include:

    • Careful selection and management of large projects. Given the number of large-scale initiatives in the works and on the horizon, Chamber members continue to urge due diligence at all stages, from selection to planning to implementation. This should also include a full and public assessment of the city’s ability to bear all related costs, and an accounting of what those costs might look like over time.

    • Targeted, transparent budgeting. The tight margins involved in municipal budgeting increase the importance of pursuing specific, aggressive low-tax targets. Through firm and publicly accountable decision-making, the city should also seek to replenish reserves and address municipal debt.

    • Competitive business tax ratios. At a time where various assessment categories continue to face additional challenges, it is important to maintain tax ratios at current levels to ensure that the sustainability for businesses and to ensure they can continue to support the community in ways big and small.

    • Business climate improvement. In recent years, the city has worked with the Timmins Chamber to identify and implement improvements for a number of municipal departments and processes that are relevant to business, such as purchasing, permitting, and the Victor M. Power Airport. That same dedication to continuous improvement should continue in the coming term in order to provide the best possible customer service.

“These priorities are not only a summary of what our members consider to be important for today; they also represent the ambitious direction we hope all municipal candidates will consider over the next four years and beyond,” said Clarke. “We may not always agree, but we all share a goal of making Timmins a great place to work, live, and play. That kind of respectful, collaborative approach on the issues is crucial, because together, we can build a Timmins that works.”

Interested candidates are encouraged to download A Timmins That Works: Business Priorities for the 2018 Municipal Election at the Chamber website at https://tinyurl.com/ATimminsThatWorks.

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For more information, please contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
policy@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-1900

Business Leaders Call for an Ontario Natural Resources Strategy

Mon, 28 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Days before Ontarians head to the polls, representatives from Aboriginal business, mining, prospectors, forestry, local government, and the broader business community are calling for the creation of a provincial natural resource strategy with specific actions, following a roundtable discussion held today in Timmins.

“A strong natural resources sector in Ontario provides skilled jobs for northern communities, including Aboriginal communities, and helps to ensure a prosperous economy," said Rocco Rossi, Ontario Chamber of Commerce President and CEO.

"At a time when Ontario is facing a skills mismatch, our next government must take bold action, working with the natural resource and northern communities, to address current challenges and provide a pathway forward for industry leadership in the global marketplace.”

The need to develop this strategy was the primary recommendation that emerged from today’s landmark meeting, which was convened at the Timmins Chamber of Commerce to stimulate thinking on priorities and opportunities for growth in Ontario’s resource sector. It included the following participants:

Mayor Steve Black, Timmins
Rocco Rossi, President & CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce
Paul-Emile McNab, Director, Business Development & Strategy Initiative, Canadian Council of Aboriginal Business
Chris Hodgson, President & CEO, Ontario Mining Association
Tom Laughren, Director Corporate Responsibility, Tahoe Resources Canada
Derek Nighbor, President & CEO, Forest Products Association of Canada
Kevin Edgson, President & CEO, EACOM Timber Corporation
Nick Stewart, Manager of Policy, Research & Communications, Timmins Chamber of Commerce
Bill MacRae, Vice-President Operations, Ontario Prospectors Association

These cross-sector roundtable participants concur that Ontario businesses face many challenges that need to be addressed to support economic growth and stability for the province. Resource industries are the backbone of Ontario’s economy, representing an important source of greater living standards and well-being for all; however, the cumulative regulatory and financial burden associated with this sector is threatening its competitiveness.

With the resources sector keen to engage with government on solutions to address some of the unique challenges facing Northern Ontario, the scope and breadth of the issues will require collaboration from several provincial ministries. By developing a natural resource strategy, government would ensure coordination of efforts across ministries, stakeholders and communities.

To that end, the group is recommending that the incoming government consider the following as part of a broader natural resource strategy:

        *Reduce Energy Costs
        *Address Regulatory and Administrative Burden
        *Improve Skills Training and Talent Availability
        *Build Capacity in Aboriginal Communities
        *Support Northern Ontario Infrastructure

“A strong resource sector can help Ontario deliver on key priorities, including securing and diversifying procurement opportunities, enhancing investments in innovation and strengthening relations with the province’s Indigenous Peoples,” said JP Gladu, President and CEO of the Canadian Council of Aboriginal Business.

Resource companies are well-positioned to work with the government to build the capacity that will support Aboriginal entrepreneurship and community participation in the resource economy.

“The resource sector is important to Timmins and the rest of the province," said Timmins Mayor Steve Black. "These industries provide good family-supporting jobs in our communities and can bring prosperity to the North. Municipalities and Indigenous communities want to participate and benefit from a strong resource sector. We will look to the incoming government to work with us on a strategy that unlocks barriers and supports growth in the industries."

A government ready for bold action can strengthen Ontario’s position in the global economy. Today’s participants encourage all parties to consider the role a strong resources sector can play in a prosperous Ontario and will work with the next provincial government to develop a resource strategy for the benefit of all Ontarians.

Additional Quotes

Chris Hodgson, President and CEO of the Ontario Mining Association:

“The world needs sustainably-sourced resources to make modern life a reality. Ontario already has a competitive advantage: we are not only rich in resources; we mine them responsibly and are committed to innovation that will further reduce our environmental footprint, thus contributing to decarbonizing our planet. The next Ontario government has much to gain from building on this advantage.”

Garry Clarke, President and CEO of the Ontario Prospectors Association:

“In the last 15 years, the exploration within Ontario has not discovered new mineral deposits at a rate that replaces the deposits being mined. The Province is at a critical point where exploration needs assistance to address the challenges to get boots on the ground as quickly as possible.”

Derek Nighbor, President and CEO of the Forest Products Association of Canada:

“Today, 52 percent of all Canada’s exports come from our natural resources sector – energy, mining, forestry, and agriculture. All our industries are transforming in their own ways to keep pace in this rapidly changing global economy. We need government to work closely with our communities so that our people and businesses in northern and rural Canada can sustain themselves and grow in the face of this disruption.”

Kevin Edgson, President and CEO of EACOM Timber Corporation:

“These partners coming together demonstrates a willingness across sectors to collaborate with the government on a growth strategy. We have made long-term investments in Northern Ontario and are keen to grow the business. Working forests are part of Ontario’s future.”

Jamie Clarke, President and CEO of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce:

“The natural resource sector represents an integral component of our economy, and the Timmins Chamber has long stood as a strong advocate for the removal of barriers to its competitiveness. We’re extremely pleased to be able to work alongside these important partners from throughout the province to address these issues collaboratively, and we look forward to advancing these priorities with the next provincial government.”

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Media Contacts

Mayor Steve Black City of Timmins mayor@timmins.ca 705-266-3853	Jessica Georgakopoulos Director of Communications Ontario Chamber of Commerce jessicageorgakopoulos@occ.ca 416-994-7901
Stella Nesca Communications & Marketing Associate Canadian Council of Aboriginal Business snesca@ccab.com 204-295-6948	Nick Stewart Manager of Policy, Research and Communications Timmins Chamber of Commerce policy@timminschamber.on.ca 705-360-1900
Garry Clarke President and CEO Ontario Prospectors Association garry@clarkexploration.com 807-472-9989	Chris Hodgson President and CEO Ontario Mining Association chodgson@oma.on.ca 416-523-3752
Dale Steeves Vice President, LBMG Forest Products Association of Canada dsteeves@lbmg.ca 778-875-3521	Christine Leduc Director, Public Affairs EACOM Timber Corporation Christine.Leduc@eacom.ca 514-237-3334

About the Ontario Chamber of Commerce

For more than a century, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) has been the independent, non-partisan voice of Ontario business. The OCC’s mission is to support economic growth in Ontario by defending business priorities at Queen’s Park on behalf of its network’s diverse 60,000 members. The OCC’s vision is to foster a vibrant and economically sustainable province that is driven by an innovative, successful and ever-expanding business community. From innovative SMEs to established multinational corporations and industry associations, the OCC is committed to working with our members to improve business competitiveness across all sectors. The OCC represents local chambers of commerce and boards of trade in over 135 communities across Ontario, steering public policy conversations provincially and within local communities.

About the Canadian Council of Aboriginal Business

CCAB is committed to the full participation of Aboriginal people in Canada’s economy. A national non-profit, non-partisan association, CCAB offers knowledge, resources, and programs to both mainstream and Aboriginal owned companies that foster economic opportunities for Aboriginal people and businesses across Canada.

About the Ontario Mining Association

The OMA is one of the longest serving trade organizations in Canada and has a history of working constructively with governments and communities of interest to build consensus on issues that matter to our industry and to the people of the province. With a mission to improve the competitiveness of Ontario's mining industry, while promoting safety and sustainability, our 80 members aim to foster an environment that bolsters mining's potential to be the cornerstone of Ontario's new, innovation-oriented green economy. The majority of OMA member companies are operating mines however it also includes associate members such as mines readying for production, contractors, equipment & service providers, consultants, engineers and others.

About the Ontario Prospectors Association

The OPA exists to enhance and promote Ontario’s mineral exploration and development community and to foster a healthy mining industry in the Province.

About the Forest Products Association of Canada

FPAC provides a voice for Canada’s wood, pulp, and paper producers nationally and internationally in government, trade, and environmental affairs. The $69-billion-a-year forest products industry represents 2 per cent of Canada’s GDP and is one of Canada’s largest employers operating in over 600 communities, providing 230,000 direct jobs, and 1 million indirect jobs across the country. The forest products sector is a world leader in sustainable forest management; we are a critical partner in the fight against climate change and have invested 1.5 billion dollars in clean technology in the last five years. Visit www.fpac.ca for more information.

About EACOM Timber Corporation

EACOM Timber Corporation is a major Eastern Canadian wood products company. Operations include the manufacturing, marketing, and distribution of lumber and wood-based value-added products, and the management of forest resources. EACOM owns seven sawmills (five in Ontario, two in Quebec), a remanufacturing facility (Quebec), and an engineered I-joist plant (Ontario) with over 1,100 employees. The Company is committed to investing in strong assets, including healthy forests, advanced technology, and talented people. For more information visit our website at www.EACOM.ca and follow us on Twitter @EACOMcorp.

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

With 650 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Growth strategies needed to keep Ontario competitive post-election, says Chamber network

Tue, 22 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

With the provincial election just weeks away, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) and the Timmins Chamber of Commerce today called on all political parties to commit to reducing the cost of doing business and to cutting provincial red tape.

These are key requests that the province’s Chamber network continues to make through Vote Prosperity, a policy platform released in October, outlining priorities for a pro-growth agenda for this election and beyond.

“Our members have made it clear that the growing, cumulative burden of doing business in Ontario is harming their ability to grow and thrive,” said Jamie Clarke, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“Bold action is required by our next government to address these challenges to help protect Ontario’s economy, which is why the OCC and the Timmins Chamber are calling on all political parties to adopt our plan.”

According to Vote Prosperity, Ontario is currently the most regulated province in the country, thereby harming economic prosperity and its businesses’ ability to compete in the global marketplace. The first pillar of this platform identifies the need for strengthening business competitiveness, which and calls on the government to:

    • Allow Ontario businesses to purchase surplus electricity at rates equal to or better than the exported price to other jurisdictions.

    • Conduct and publish the results of a comprehensive review of the electricity sector, including an objective economic impact analysis assessing the full range of inputs that make up the Global Adjustment, and then pursue cost-reducing measures based on the results.

    • Pursue efforts to reduce Ontario’s greenhouse gas emissions in a manner that effectively mitigates risk to business competitiveness.

    • Work with federal and local levels of government to establish a publicly available analysis of the cost of doing business in Ontario.

    • Reinstate scheduled reductions in the Corporate Income Tax, standardize the Business Education Tax and reduce the Employer Health Tax.

“It is crucial for Ontario’s broader economic health that our entrepreneurs are able to invest in themselves, in their people, and in their communities,” said Clarke. “we must ensure that the connection between a strong private sector and a prosperous society is not lost."

To learn more about the Vote Prosperity platform, visit www.occ.ca/voteprosperity2018

For more information, please contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
policy@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-1900

Rock stars of Timmins business celebrated at 2018 Nova Awards

Mon, 14 May 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The rock stars of local business took center stage at the McIntyre Arena on May 11, joined by a crowd of more than 700 people in celebration of the 2018 Nova Business Excellence Awards.

The concert theme of “Business Takes the Stage” was used throughout the evening to help showcase the many ways that entrepreneurs are Timmins’ unsung rock stars, said Jamie Clarke, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“The Nova Awards are an important reminder of the many ways that our businesses work in harmony to make Timmins truly great,” said Clarke.

“All of the entrepreneurs featured this evening, from the finalists to the recipients, truly deserve our applause, and it’s clear from tonight’s packed house that Timmins clearly agrees.”

Chamber past president Art Pultz once again served as the event’s emcee and front man, marking the 15^th time in the event’s 16-year history he has overseen the awards ceremony. Pultz helped to highlight the slate of more than 40 finalists who were honoured throughout the evening.

The Nova Awards recipients were carefully selected from a record-breaking 160 nominations by a committee of six independent community judges. These judges determine the award recipients based on the quality of the submissions; to ensure the validity of the results, this is done without any input or influence from the Chamber Board of Directors or staff. This independence also helps to make the event one that truly belongs to the community, said Clarke.

“They might not be putting out Top 40 hits or selling out cross-Canada tours, but we can clearly see from these honourees that Timmins’ business owners and entrepreneurs deserve just as much recognition, given the incredible things they do in our community. Each one helps make Timmins a better place to work, live, and play, and we’re thrilled to help shine a spotlight on their performance.”

A photo gallery of the 2018 Nova Awards, spanning the finalists’ reception to the awards ceremony and post-event celebration, will be available at the Chamber’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TimminsChamber on Friday, May 11.

The recipients of the 2018 Nova Awards, and those who accepted on their behalf, are as follows:

BMT Insurance & Financial Services Business Contribution to the Community Award (1-5 Employees) Sponsored by BMT Insurance *& Financial Services*	The Sandbox Kori Ferrigan, owner
The Venture Centre Business Contribution to the Community Award (6-10 Employees) *Sponsored by The Venture Centre*	Vets Taxi & Dispatch Services Inc. Rick Lafleur, president
NorthernTel Business Contribution to the Community Award (11+ Employees) *Sponsored by NorthernTel*	Discover Fitness with Kate Durst Inc. / Crossfit Timmins Kate Durst, owner, and Lisa Tremblay, manager of operations and personnel
FNETB Best Place to Work Award *Sponsored by the Far Northeast Training Board*	Great White North Technology Consulting Inc. *Paul Brunet, CEO*
Collège Boréal Young Professional Award (Under 40) *Sponsored by Collège Boréal*	Johny and Justin Bonney, Timmins Wake Park
RBC Marketing Award *Sponsored by RBC Royal Bank*	Holy Cow Indian Cuisine Terry McGaghran, owner
National Bank Innovation Award *Sponsored by National Bank*	EACOM Timber Corporation Marc Fleury, mill manager
Northern College Service Excellence Award *Sponsored by Northern College*	Miron-Wilson Funeral Home Michael Wilson, president and managing funeral director
Caisse populaire Alliance New Business Award (Under 2 Years) *Sponsored by Caisse populaire Alliance*	INEOS Calabrian Guy Graine, Canadian operations manager
TD Bank Group Business of the Year Award (1-5 Employees) *Sponsored by TD Bank Group*	Restore Physiotherapy Timmins Scott Alexander and Patricia Ferrari, co-owners
Scotiabank Business of the Year Award (6-10 Employees) *Sponsored by Scotiabank*	Radical Gardens Brianna Humphrey and Steve McIntosh, co-owners
Kidd Operations Business of the Year Award (11+ Employees) *Sponsored by Kidd Operations*	JTR & Custom Works Inc. *Joelle Charbonneau, operations manager*
De Beers Canada Indigenous Partnership Award *Sponsored by De Beers Canada*	NORCAT Ken Stewart, manager, training and development
City of Timmins Non-Profit Organization Award *Sponsored by the City of Timmins*	Anti-Hunger Coalition Timmins Jennifer Vachon, executive director, and Eleanor Baccega, chair
OPG Lifetime Business Achievement Award *Sponsored by Ontario Power Generation*	GORF Manufacturing/Contracting Inc. *Mark Norkum, president and CEO*
President’s Award *Sponsored by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce*	Full Beard Brewing Co. Jonathan St-Pierre, founder and co-owner, and Benjie Potvin, brewery general manager and co-owner

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Provincial budget adds to business burden, says Timmins Chamber

Thu, 29 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The 2018 provincial budget adds significantly to the rising cost of doing business in Ontario, adding nearly half a billion dollars in new taxes for entrepreneurs at a time where they already face numerous challenges, according to the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

Presented on March 28 by Finance Minister Charles Sousa, the pre-election budget includes measures that mirror recent federal corporate tax changes on income splitting, as well as passive investment income, which phases out small business deductions for certain earners. Combined with new budget measures that also propose to tighten businesses’ eligibility criteria for the Employer Health Tax, this will translate to $495 million in new taxes on Ontario businesses over three years.

“While there are some elements in the budget that we’re happy to see, these new tax measures will only add to the cumulative, growing burden of doing business in Ontario,” said Timmins Chamber President Jamie Clarke.

“The speed with which recent labour law changes were introduced through Bill 148 left businesses with little time to adjust their operations, creating considerable uncertainty and obstacles that many are still struggling to overcome. Rather than providing relief to businesses reeling from these changes, these tax measures will instead create additional and unnecessary financial challenges.”

However, Clarke added that there are some positive measures of interest to Timmins businesses in the budget, including:

-Expansion of the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund by 50 percent, increasing its budget to $150 million by 2020-2021;
-$500 million over three years to expand broadband in rural and northern communities;
-Improved labour market information portal with real-time updates, and
-$3 million in Connecting Link funding for Timmins for reconstruction of Highway 101, as previously announced.

These items, and the expansion of the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund in particular, stand as important means of strengthening the economic future of the North, and will certainly prove beneficial for Timmins’ economy, said Clarke.

However, with these additions and several new big-ticket programs, Ontario is marking a return to deficit in this budget. This year’s budget marks a $6.7 billion deficit, adding to Ontario’s existing $308-billion debt at a time where interest payments represent Ontario’s third-largest expense at $12.5 billion per year. The budget also indicates there is no plan to get back to balance until 2025 -- an approach that threatens Ontario’s long-term economic stability, says Clarke.

“Although we recognize the importance of investing in Ontario, this must be done in a way that is responsible and that protects the value of every single dollar. That means having a realistic, practical plan for bringing our spending into balance, and making sure that our investments help our businesses and our province as a whole to be more competitive.”

This concern was shared by Rocco Rossi, president and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, who noted that the impetus for much of the new social spending proposed by the Ontario government is to address the notion that prosperity is not being shared. The budget indicates that, of the more than 800,000 net new jobs created since the recession, the majority were created “in industries that pay above-average wages, in the private sector, and as full-time positions.”

“Ontario’s businesses are doing their part to create a fairer society, and the best way to ensure that continues is to consult with businesses and reduce their cumulative burden,” said Rossi. “As the government and opposition parties turn their attention to the upcoming election, we again call on them to adopt our Vote Prosperity recommendations that will strengthen business competitiveness, foster job creation, build healthy communities, and improve government accountability.”

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

With over 700 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Finalists announced for 2018 Nova Business Excellence Awards

Wed, 07 Mar 2018 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, ON | March 7, 2018: The lineup for the 2018 Nova Business Excellence Awards is now set, as the Timmins Chamber of Commerce has announced the 45 rock stars of Timmins business who will share the spotlight as finalists at the region’s biggest celebration of entrepreneurial achievement.

A record-breaking 160 nominations were submitted across 15 award categories for this year’s May 10 event, and were narrowed down to three finalists each by a panel of independent community judges. These finalists will be celebrated with a “Business Takes the Stage” theme to showcase the many ways these entrepreneurs are Timmins’ unsung rock stars, said Jamie Clarke, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“This year’s slate of incredible nominees is yet another reminder that even though they’re not headlining tours or selling out concert venues, Timmins’ business leaders are just as creative and dedicated to setting the tone in their own fields, and they deserve our applause,” said Clarke.

“It’s clear from this list of finalists that our local entrepreneurs are truly world-class, which is why we’re looking forward to counting down the hits of Timmins business at the Nova Awards on May 10.”

Now in its 16th year, the annual awards gala is dedicated to Timmins business success stories, and highlights their positive impact on the region and its economy. As such, this annual celebration of business is a crucial one, said Clarke.

“Our businesses work in harmony with each other and the community, each adding their own melody to the mix to help make Timmins a great place to work, live, and play. It’s why we’re honoured to have spent 16 years making sure that their achievements are recognized with the fanfare they deserve, and we look forward to more than 700 attendees joining us at the Nova Awards to lend their voice to the chorus and make this a gig to remember.”

Tickets to the gala event will go on sale March 22 at $130 plus HST, or $110 plus HST for Chamber members, and tables of 10 are available. Ticket reservations can be made via email at info@timminschamber.on.ca

A photo gallery of finalists receiving their notifications is available at www.tinyurl.com/2018NovaFinalists

2018 Nova Business Excellence Awards Finalists:

BMT Insurance & Financial Services Business Contribution to the Community Award (1-5 Employees)

Aline's Tea Shop
Near North Video Productions
The SandBox

The Venture Centre Business Contribution to the Community Award (6-10 Employees)

Toffanello's Fresh Pasta
Vets Taxi & Dispatch Service Inc.
Vista Radio

NorthernTel Business Contribution to the Community Award (11+ Employees)

Discover Fitness with Kate Durst Inc. / Crossfit Timmins

Dorrington & Associates Professional Corporation

The Bucket Shop

FNETB Best Place to Work Award

BMT Insurance and Financial Services
Kia of Timmins
Great White North Technology Consulting Inc.

Collège Boréal Young Professional Award (Under 40)

Johny and Justin Bonney, Timmins Wake Park

Loralee Boucher, Loralee's Hair & Beauty Salon

Carly Stringer, Stringer Law Professional Corporation

RBC Marketing Award

Holy Cow Indian Cuisine
J&B Cycle and Marine Co. Ltd.
RHMH Heating & Air Conditioning

National Bank Innovation Award

CMGC - Curtis McCharles General Carpenter

EACOM Timber Corporation

World's Best Cream

Northern College Service Excellence Award

Balsam Suites Boutique Inn & Residence

L Bridal

Miron-Wilson Funeral Home, Cremation and Reception Centre Ltd.

Caisse Populaire de Timmins New Business Award (Under 2 Years)

Full Beard Brewing Co.

Just Beecause Chocolates & Confections

INEOS Calabrian

TD Bank Group Business of the Year Award

(1-5 Employees)

Pinchin Ltd.

Dr. Dibadin and Dr. Francis Dental Clinic

Restore Physiotherapy Timmins

Scotiabank Business of the Year Award

(6-10 Employees)

Expert Garage Ltd.

Little John Enterprises Ltd.

Radical Gardens

Kidd Operations Business of the Year Award (11+ Employees)

De Beers Victor Mine
JTR & Custom Works Inc.
Tahoe Canada

De Beers Canada Indigenous Partnership Award

NORCAT

Northern College
Timmins & Area Women in Crisis

City of Timmins Non-Profit Organization

Award

Anti-Hunger Coalition Timmins

TDH Auxiliary

Timmins Sports Heritage Hall of Fame Committee

OPG Lifetime Business Achievement Award

Dominion Day Care Inc.
Gorf Manufacturing/Contracting Ltd.
Lafleur Gardens Ltd.

President’s Award

To be announced at the Nova Awards on May 10

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Northeastern Ontario businesses show limited confidence in Ontario’s economic future: report

Fri, 09 Feb 2018 00:00:00 GMT

Only 19 percent of northeastern Ontario businesses are confident in Ontario’s economic future, according to the 2018 Ontario Economic Report, issued this week by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

This is a five-percent drop from the previous year, as revealed in the 2018 Ontario Economic Report (OER)’s annual business confidence survey. The report indicates that businesses’ main area of concern is the growing cost of operating in Ontario, due in part to its rising tax burdens and electricity rates.

“These findings are in keeping with the challenges faced by Timmins businesses, whose costs continue to rise in virtually every sector,” said Jamie Clarke, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“Over the last year, our membership has expressed strong concerns about the impact that issues like cap and trade and labour law changes are having on their competitiveness, and we continue to advocate on their behalf to urge government to relieve some of that burden.”

Despite a lack of confidence in the larger economy, northeastern businesses are slightly more confident in their own economic future: 45 percent said they have a positive perspective for their own firm, citing a growing client base and increased demand.

The combined result, according to the report, is a projected stagnation in Ontario’s overall economy. This is reinforced by regional data, as the Business Confidence Survey reveals that nearly half of northeastern Ontario businesses expect their organization’s revenue to stay the same over the next 12 months.

“Industry in Ontario are feeling the impact of the rising minimum wage, significant labour reforms, increasing global and US competition, NAFTA renegotiations, consistent overregulation, rising input costs, and challenges to accessing talent,” said Rocco Rossi, President and CEO at the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.

“This year’s Ontario Economic Report indicates that these challenges are creating a climate of low business confidence that will compromise the province’s future prosperity.”

Tackling many of these issues will be a major focus for the Ontario Chamber in 2018, which will also work on some specific areas of interest for northeastern Ontario. In particular, the Ontario Chamber will look to address Northern Ontario transportation and infrastructure issues, in part due to continued advocacy by the Timmins Chamber on topics such as Connecting Link funding. The Timmins Chamber will continue to work directly with the Ontario chamber network throughout the coming months to address barriers that impact local businesses.

The OER contains several different perspectives on Ontario’s economy, produced by different partners for the Ontario Chamber: this includes the Business Confidence Survey, as conducted by Fresh Intelligence; a Business Prosperity Index, as developed by the Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis (CANCEA), and a 2018 Economic Outlook, as prepared by BMO Financial Group.

To view the full 2018 Ontario Economic Report, visit www.tinyurl.com/OntarioEconomicReport2018

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Offsets needed to protect small businesses in upcoming budget, says Timmins Chamber

Wed, 17 Jan 2018 00:00:00 GMT

The upcoming 2018 Ontario budget should focus on offsetting the growing costs to business through measures such as a reduction of the corporate income tax, according to a pre-budget submission issued by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) in partnership with the Timmins Chamber.

Presented to the Ontario government on Jan. 15, the OCC’s submission included 11 specific recommendations as a guideline to help manage costs and secure economic growth at a time where businesses are facing rising energy rates, cap and trade challenges, and labour costs.

These include suggestions to pass various tax reforms, such as following through on previous plans to reduce the corporate income tax rate from 11.5 percent to 10 percent.

The submission also urges the province to create additional small business deduction tax brackets, and to delay taxation on corporate income growth to help give aspiring entrepreneurs more room to grow.

“Employers in Timmins are feeling the pressure from rising costs, which is why Ontario needs to build a competitive taxation system that encourages investment and minimizes red tape,” said Jamie Clarke, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“While we applaud the Ontario government’s efforts to address these issues in last year’s Fall Economic Statement, it is evident that more support needs to be given to businesses to ensure the future growth of our economy.”

In its submission, the OCC also emphasized the importance of government spending to maximize growth within the province. More strategic spending on infrastructure will maximize Ontario’s competitiveness, while reinvesting money back into the economy, according to the document.

The OCC shared similar concerns about the lack of reinvestment within Ontario, as the pre-budget submission also highlighted the fiscal imbalance between municipalities and the provincial government, which is placing a growing burden on taxpayers. This, it suggested, is ultimately straining local services and forcing municipalities to delay essential projects.

“On the spending side, government must improve the efficiency and effectiveness of programs/services and focus on areas that enhance productivity and competitiveness,” said Rocco Rossi, president and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.

Addressing the fiscal hardship being put onto businesses through rising costs within the province is an underlying theme throughout the pre-budget submission. The Timmins Chamber, alongside the OCC, is devoted to working with the provincial government to ensure the competitiveness of Ontario businesses.

To download the OCC’s full 2018 Ontario pre-budget submission, visit https://tinyurl.com/2018-Ontario-Pre-Budget

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For more information, please contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
policy@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-190

Timmins Chamber calling on business rock stars for 2018 Nova Awards

Thu, 14 Dec 2017 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, ON | December 14, 2017: The Timmins Chamber of Commerce is asking for the rock stars of local business to swagger into the spotlight, as nominations are now open for the 2018 Nova Business Excellence Awards.

To be held at the McIntyre Arena on Thursday, May 10, the Nova Awards are the region’s biggest celebration of entrepreneurial achievement, and help to recognize the best of Timmins business across 15 categories. This year’s event will feature the theme of “Business Takes the Stage” to help showcase all the many ways that Timmins entrepreneurs are the city’s unsung rockstars, according to Timmins Chamber President Jamie Clarke.

“You won’t see them selling out concert venues or putting out Top 40 hits, but Timmins’ business leaders are just as dedicated, creative, and hard-working in their fields, and they deserve just as much applause for what they do in our community,” said Clarke.

“The Nova Awards are a great way to make sure our businesses get the celebrity treatment for at least one night, so if you know someone who fits the bill, be sure to shine a light on their work with a nomination. Even the best can’t be celebrated unless they’re nominated.”

Nominees are now being accepted for the following awards:

        -BMT Insurance & Financial Services Business Contribution to the Community Award (1-5 Employees)
        -The Venture Centre Business Contribution to the Community Award (6-10 Employees)NorthernTel Business Contribution to the Community Award (11+ Employees)
        -FNETB Best Place to Work Award
        -Collège Boréal Young Professional Award (Under 40)
        -RBC Marketing Award
        -Innovation Award
        -Northern College Service Excellence Award
        -Caisse Populaire de Timmins New Business Award (Under 2 Years)
        -TD Bank Group Business of the Year Award (1-5 Employees)
        -Scotiabank Business of the Year Award (6-10 Employees)
        -Kidd Operations Business of the Year Award (11+ Employees)
        -De Beers Canada Indigenous Partnership Award
        -City of Timmins Non-Profit Organization Award
        -OPG Lifetime Business Achievement Award

The Nova Awards are one of the Chamber’s signature events, with more than 700 people from across the region regularly in attendance. Now in its 16^th year, the 2018 event promises to put on quite a show as it upholds its reputation as a spectacular way to celebrate business success in Timmins, said Clarke.

“Whether they’re a smaller group or a major headliner, our businesses deserved to be recognized for the countless ways they help to make Timmins a great place to work, live and play. The nomination process can even be done online, so if you know a business rock star, now’s the time to give them a plug.”

Nomination packages are available online at https://tinyurl.com/NovaAwards2018, and will be accepted until February 1, 2018. Finalists will be notified on March 6.

Tickets for the Nova Awards will go on sale March 22, 2018.

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber pushes member priorities to federal policymakers in Ottawa advocacy trip

Thu, 09 Nov 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins businesses' priorities were front and centre in Ottawa last week as Timmins Chamber staff advanced members' issues with partners and politicians in the nation's capital.

Nick Stewart, the Timmins Chamber's Manager of Policy, Research, and Communications, spent the week of Oct. 30 - Nov. 3 in the Ottawa offices of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce (CCC) as part of a new pilot program designed to provide more federal exposure to local chambers across the country.

Throughout the five-day period, Stewart advocated for a wide range of issues of interest to Timmins Chamber members as he met with CCC policy directors and economists, traveled to Parliament Hill to meet with MPs and Canadian Senators, and sat in on Senate Finance Committee meetings on the proposed corporate tax changes.

Timmins Chamber member priorities discussed throughout the week with politicians and decision-makers in Ottawa include:

- Environmental assessment processes
- Corporate tax changes
- Skills development and workforce challenges
- Duty to consult
- Indigenous education funding
- Impact of climate change on winter road network
- Interprovincial trade
- FedNor
- ...and more.

In the coming weeks and months, the Timmins Chamber will continue to build on the many connections and conversations from the week as it looks to further advance constructive, realistic solutions that best serve its member businesses.

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For more information, please contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
policy@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-1900

Timmins Chamber welcomes relief measures but continues fight on federal tax reform

Tue, 17 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The federal government’s recently announced plans to reduce the small business tax rate and revise its proposed tax reforms are welcome, but more needs to be done to protect business competitiveness in Canada, according to the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

In direct response to ongoing advocacy by groups like the Timmins Chamber and the Canadian Chamber network, Finance Minister Bill Morneau announced yesterday that the government will step back from the full extent of its corporate tax proposals, as originally put forward for a brief consultation that ended Oct. 2.

Morneau’s announcement indicated that the government intends to review its proposed plans around restricting income sprinkling, and to no longer pursue limiting the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption, which would have made it more difficult to transfer a business to new generations of family members. He also announced the government’s plan to reduce Canada’s small business tax rate from 10.5 percent to 9 percent by Jan. 1, 2019.

“We’re incredibly pleased to note that the federal government is responding to the forceful feedback provided by the Timmins Chamber, its members, and its partners, but much more still needs to be done,” said Jamie Clarke, president, Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“While the applaud the more balanced approach that the government offered in its announcements yesterday, its overall tax reforms will still negatively impact a broad range of entrepreneurs, and pose serious challenges at a time where we are already facing additional problems at the provincial level. We appreciate that the government is listening to our concerns, but there is still much work to do to ensure that any attempt at tax reform will protect – rather than punish – Canada’s entrepreneurs and competitiveness.”

In partnership with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce network and the Coalition for Small Business Tax Fairness, the Timmins Chamber will continue to build on these changes by voicing the concerns of hundreds of thousands of businesses who will still be affected by the federal tax reform plan.

Specifically, the Timmins Chamber is continuing to work with its national partners to push the federal government to do the following:

Pause the current tax reform proposal process and launch meaningful consultations with the business community;
Conduct an economic analysis of any reforms that the government proposes for Canada’s tax system;
Undertake an independent, comprehensive review of the federal tax system, with a view toward fairness, simplification, and competitiveness.

The Timmins Chamber and its national partners are working on a number of initiatives to achieve these goals and ensure that the voice of business continues to be heard. This includes the launch of a nationwide petition – available at www.tinyurl.com/ProtectGrowthPetition -- which urges federal Finance Minister Bill Morneau and Small Business Minister Bardish Chagger to pause their current efforts, and pursue a better plan that does not unduly punish entrepreneurs.

The Chamber network is also continuing to communicate the specific concerns of small business by sharing their individual stories. The Timmins Chamber is in the process of reaching out to its 650 members to help them to tell their own stories via short videos; the Chamber will then share throughout the larger national network and social media to help raise awareness of the personal, direct impact that the proposed legislation will have on businesses in the community.

These efforts build on the work already undertaken by the Timmins Chamber and its partners over the last several months since the corporate tax change proposals were first announced. This includes having submitted several joint letters to Finance Minister Bill Morneau (the most recent of which is available at www.tinyurl.com/Sept26TaxChanges), and encouraging Timmins Chamber members to send letters directly to Timmins-James Bay MP Charlie Angus to explain what these changes would mean for them.

The Timmins Chamber was also able to help take action during the Canadian Chamber’s annual general meeting in Fredericton on Sept. 23-25. With more than 300 delegates representing more than 200,000 across Canada, the Timmins Chamber helped to support a policy resolution calling on the federal government to extend the consultation period for the corporate tax changes, and to revise its approach in a way that would not harm entrepreneurs; it passed with 98.8 percent support, meaning the Canadian Chamber will fight for that issue over the coming months.

“Even with the newly revised changes, the federal government’s flawed proposals will punish those who have invested everything into their business, while making it much harder to survive in more difficult economic times,” said Clarke. “Our work on this file is just starting, and we look forward to continuing that work with our members, our national partners, and the federal government to help find solutions to build a Canada that wins.”

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For more information, please contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
policy@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-1900

Ontario Chamber network launches pro-growth platform for 2018 provincial election

Thu, 12 Oct 2017 00:00:00 GMT

To ensure the 2018 provincial election addresses the most important issues for business, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce has partnered with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) to launch Vote Prosperity, a policy platform outlining the business community’s priorities for a pro-growth agenda.

Built in consultation with businesses across Ontario, Vote Prosperity provides a series of recommendations for all political parties to consider adopting as part of their election platform to help build on the province’s advantages and strengthen its global competitiveness. The platform offers solutions to specific challenges that limit growth for Ontario’s businesses, which face rising electricity prices, a cap and trade regime, onerous labour law reforms and a burdensome regulatory environment.

“Businesses are the backbone of Timmins’ economy, which is why we need to ensure their needs are addressed in next year’s provincial election,” said Jamie Clarke, President of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“By issuing our election priorities a year in advance, we hope that Vote Prosperity will be used in the coming months by Ontario’s political leaders to build their own election platforms around ideas that will help promote growth in Northern Ontario.”

To help address existing business challenges and promote a positive economic environment, Vote Prosperity is based on four overarching strategies: strengthening business competitiveness, fostering job creation, building healthy communities and improving government accountability.

These strategies are the foundation for the platform’s 18 recommendations, some of which the OCC based on policy resolutions previously advanced by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce. Some of these recommendations include:

· Allow Ontario businesses to purchase surplus electricity at rates equal to or better than the exported price to other jurisdictions;

· Conduct and publish the results of a comprehensive review of the electricity sector, including an objective economic impact analysis assessing the full range of inputs that make up the Global Adjustment (GA), and then pursue cost-reducing measures based on the results;

· Modernize the apprenticeship system; and

· Ensure all proposed policy, regulation and legislation is based on sound, quantitative evidence.

“Ontario businesses have made it clear that the ever-rising costs of doing business from all levels of government have hindered their ability to prosper and grow,” said Karl Baldauf, Vice President of Policy and Government Relations at the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. “Our objective is to achieve coherent, comprehensive pro-growth policies from all political parties. Our recommendations provide a prosperous path forward because when you vote for prosperity, Ontario wins.”

As the 2018 election approaches, the Timmins Chamber and the OCC will continue to share the concerns and recommendations outlined in Vote Prosperity with political parties and local candidates.

To learn more about the Vote Prosperity platform, visit www.occ.ca/voteprosperity2018

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For more information, please contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
policy@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-1900

Timmins Chamber secures national partner in push to improve access to Canadian natural resources

Tue, 26 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The Timmins Chamber of Commerce has secured a major national partner in its efforts to reduce the obstacles faced by natural resource industries pursuing projects in Canada.

At the Canadian Chamber of Commerce's (CCC) annual general meeting in Fredericton, NB on Sept. 23-25, the Timmins Chamber successfully lobbied more than 330 Chamber representatives from across the country to support a call by Timmins businesses to improve Canada’s environmental assessment (EA) system. Adopted by the CCC with a 99.6 percent support on the debate floor, the Timmins Chamber resolution calls on the federal government to simplify the EA system, increase its public transparency, and have it provide more opportunities for Indigenous communities to participate in the process.

These changes would provide much-needed changes to Canada’s EA processes, which currently create duplication and delays, posing many risks to new and existing projects alike while threatening the economic potential for resource-focused communities like Timmins, according to Timmins Chamber President Jamie Clarke.

“This is an important win not just for Timmins businesses and our local economy, but for all of Canada’s natural resource industries,” said Clarke.

“Now that our policy resolution has been adopted with the support of businesses from coast to coast, it is now an official position of the Canadian Chamber, which will advocate for our ideas over the next three years. In other words, the country’s largest and most influential business advocacy group will now use the full weight of the 200,000 businesses it represents to make sure that our made-in-Timmins policy is heard at the highest levels of government. It’s a major achievement for Timmins Chamber members, and we’re proud to have developed and passed this on their behalf.”

The success of the Timmins Chamber in pushing for the adoption of its resolution is timely, said Clarke, as the federal government is currently undertaking a full review of Canada’s EA processes with an eye on passing new legislation in 2018. This holds some challenges, as many of the changes recently proposed by a government-appointed expert panel to reform the current system threaten to hurt industry rather than help it to navigate the EA process with reliability and predictability.

It is crucial that the government consider the needs of industry throughout this review, said Clarke, as natural resource industries like mining and forestry are subject to EAs at both the provincial and federal levels through the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act. This has led to two separate and often duplicate processes whose delays have led to weakened business cases for projects, unnecessarily complicated consultations, and reduced overall competitiveness.

In response, the Timmins Chamber resolution, entitled Improving Federal Environmental Assessment Processes, proposes that the current federal review consider implementing a series of eight changes.

Among others, these recommendations include asking the federal government to:

· Take a “one project, one assessment” approach, allowing businesses to streamline the process in cases where provincial requirements are equal to or more stringent that those at the federal level;

· Improve timelines and reducing red tape for EAs by working more closely with industry and the provinces to identify efficiencies, while providing more scientific support for the process;

· Make all information generated throughout the EA process – including post-assessment monitoring and enforcement -- publicly available through an online library or registry; and

· Ensure Indigenous peoples have the capacity to participate in the EA project review process by enhancing funding for participation, developing strategies to build longer-term capacity within communities, and engaging them as early in the process as possible to jointly determine desired outcomes.

“If we have the opportunity to review how Canada handles environmental assessments, we need to make sure we get it right,” said Clarke. “Any new federal legislation to change EAs must improve the reliability and timing of the process, and avoid introducing new elements that would add more complications and delays. With the Canadian Chamber as a new partner on this file, we look forward to working with them and the Canadian government to ensure that resource-focused communities like Timmins can continue to grow and thrive.”

The Timmins Chamber policy was crafted in consultation between the Timmins Chamber’s Government Regulation and Policy Committee, area businesses, and a broad number of partners across Canada.

Partners that the Timmins Chamber were able to bring on as co-sponsors in support of its CCC resolution include the Calgary Chamber of Commerce, the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, the St. John’s Board of Trade, the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce, Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce, as well as the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce. The range of national partnerships involved in building this resolution is a sign of the nationwide scope of the issue, said Clarke.

To view the full versions of the policy that will now be championed by the CCC, please visit the Chamber’s website at www.timminschamber.on.ca, or view it directly at https://tinyurl.com/EAReform2017

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce
With 650 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Alita Fabiano
Communications & Design Specialist
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
marketing@timminschamber.on.ca

City budget should focus on cost control and investment, says Timmins Chamber

Mon, 25 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Council’s work on crafting the 2018 municipal budget should focus on constraining costs while finding the means to invest responsibly within the community, suggests the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

These objectives were outlined during a council presentation made by Chamber President Jamie Clarke and First Vice-President Nancy Mageau on Sept. 20 as a way of advocating for the needs of the business community during the 2018 municipal budget process.

While Council was able to achieve a 2.4 percent tax rate increase in its 2017 budget, the second-lowest increase in 15 years, Clarke explained that the rising costs faced by local businesses makes it imperative for Council to pursue a more judicious use of taxpayer dollars.

“This means taking a careful look all opportunities for the potential to reduce costs, maintain or increase revenues, and protect against unnecessary expenditures,” said Clarke.

“Moreover, every budget presents opportunities to delay or defer projects whose timing may be less optimal for the current financial climate. Identifying such projects within these municipal budget discussions -- alongside inter-departmental synergies and attrition -- could assist Council in achieving these specific goals.”

Striving for greater cost reductions within the city may also provide an opportunity to alleviate some of the fiscal pressures seen on other investment projects throughout the year, said Clarke. Appropriate and responsible investment in a community is crucial for growth, and it is with this point of view that the Chamber continues to advocate for continued spending on economic diversification, business attraction, and other measures that contribute to the development and expansion of our tax base.

Additionally, investment in key municipal infrastructure -- roads in particular -- is also crucial. Given the considerable constraints facing Timmins and all municipalities on this file, the Chamber continues to support long-term planning for core infrastructure, and the development of corresponding financial strategies to ensure that deferred work does not grow to unmanageable levels, said Clarke.

“We certainly sympathize with the municipality’s struggle to manage the burden of infrastructure spending, given that the province continues to shift that burden regardless of the capacity to bear it. It is for that reason that we have aggressively and successfully advocated for greater funding solutions within our own provincial network.”

Every year, the Chamber’s presentation to council is assembled through an extensive process of consultation, with member input being provided through a wide variety of venues. This includes surveys, roundtable discussions, several Chamber committees, and numerous one-on-one interviews conducted by Chamber staff. The finished presentation represents the majority view as expressed by members throughout that consultation process.

To view the report, visit https://tinyurl.com/ycslg6yr

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For more information, please contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
policy@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-1900

Chamber highlights yearly successes at 68th Annual General Meeting

Wed, 13 Sep 2017 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, ON, September 13, 2017—The Timmins Chamber of Commerce highlighted a year’s worth of successes for the business community at the organization’s 68^th Annual General Meeting and President’s Dinner on Sept. 12.

Hosted at the Porcupine Dante Club, the event allowed more than 100 attendees to hear from immediate past president Christine Bender, who outlined the many things the Chamber achieved through the 2016-2017 year as a result of the support of its 650 members.

This included many policy and advocacy victories on member-driven issues such as municipal procurement, natural resource-related infrastructure and permitting, Indigenous education, energy rates, workforce shortages, and more. This work has also involved partnerships with the Ontario and Canadian Chambers to tackle broader concerns like energy rates, minimum wage increases, federal tax changes, and cap and trade. To help share information on these and other issues, the Timmins Chamber also hosted nearly 60 informational and networking events, while offering more than 90 discounts to help members with their bottom line.

The year also saw the election of a strong 2017-2018 Board of Directors, which joined Chamber President Jamie Clarke of Tisdale Plumbing Heating & Electrical in being officially sworn in by Timmins’ Mayor Steve Black as part of the evening’s proceedings.

The evening also served to celebrate certain individuals who have made significant contributions to the Chamber and the business community.

This year’s Service Award was given to Jason Laneville of CTV Television, in recognition of his six years of dedicated service to the Chamber’s board of directors -- the maximum amount of time someone can consecutively serve.

“Over the years, Jason has committed considerable time and energy to the Chamber, and to the members,” said Bender. “He has been a valuable Board member, and his contributions have always been greatly appreciated.”

Larry Gubbels of Wyatt Image Solutions was the recipient of this year’s Alex Klimack Award, which serves to recognize an outstanding volunteer for their hard work and commitment not only to the Chamber but the community as a whole. As one of the Chamber’s most determined and vocal volunteers, Gubbels is well known for his dedication, which was certainly on full display throughout 2016-2017, according to Bender.

“This individual has been a long-time Chamber champion, having served on the board for many years their dedication does not go unnoticed. The impact of the work that he has invested will be felt by the Chamber, our members, and the business community for years to come.”

The Timmins Chamber also marked the evening by awaring an Honourary Lifetime Membership to past president Rick Gutcher. This official honour is reserved for individuals worthy of special recognition – those who have demonstrated an unending desire to make Timmins the best possible place to live, work and play.

Rick’s leadership and dedication to the Chamber has spanned decades, including 20 years as the lead organizer, head chef, and driving force of Evening in Italy. Before it came to a close in 2012, this annual event was one of the brightest nights on the Chamber calendar, thanking members for their support with a low-price, high-quality feast. Over the life of the event, Rick prepared more than 30,000 plates of food for what had become a homecoming of sorts for organizers and members alike.

His efforts have earned him many accolades, including the Alex Klimack Award in 2008, and the Volunteer of the Year Award from the province in 2009.

“Having served as a tireless volunteer long after his tenure as president in 1992-1993, Rick’s countless contributions to the Timmins Chamber have deservedly given him a reputation for reliability,” said Bender. “It is for his relentless and unwavering support of the Chamber and its goals that the Board was incredibly pleased to award him with this accolade.”

Attendees of the Annual General Meeting were also able to learn about Timmins’ growing potential as a “Music City,” courtesy of the evening’s keynote speaker Graham Henderson, president and CEO of Music Canada, and Chair of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.

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For more information, please contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
policy@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-1900

Timmins jobs at risk under Ontario’s proposed labour law changes: report

Tue, 15 Aug 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins jobs would be at risk under the Ontario government’s proposed changes to labour and employment laws, according to a new report released by the Keep Ontario Working Coalition (KOW), in partnership with the Timmins Chamber of Commerce and the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.

These potential job losses are part of the 185,000 jobs projected to be at risk over two years throughout Ontario as a result of the province’s proposed Bill 148, Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs Act. Aside from increasing the minimum wage by 32 per cent over 18 months, the Act also proposes changes to “equal pay” provisions, vacation, scheduling, personal emergency leave, and unionization.

Conducted by the Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis (CANCEA), the report indicates that Bill 148 also stands to have a $23 billion impact on business over the first two years. This would primarily be felt in the manufacturing, accommodation and food services, retail trades, and wholesale trades sectors.

“Timmins businesses have said loud and clear that the changes proposed in the province’s Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs Act are simply too much, too fast, and this report certainly confirms those fears,” said Timmins Chamber President Christine Bender.

“We call upon the province to consider major changes to Bill 148, and slow down its implementation to avoid unintended harm and to protect Ontario jobs.”

The CANCEA report also indicates that Bill 148 would result in significant increases to inflation, causing the cost of everyday consumer goods and services to annually rise by an average of $1,300 per household.

It will also put the province deeper into debt: the Ontario government would need to borrow $440 million more to cover the increases in new costs from this legislation. This would increase further if the province moves to provide offsets or tax relief to businesses, as they have indicated.

The move would also pose additional challenges to municipalities, which will be forced to increase employee wages by $500 million without additional offsetting revenues.

“Given the scale of impact and pace of change, it will be impossible for the provincial government to make businesses, even small businesses, whole through offsets,” said Karl Baldauf, Vice President of Policy and Government Relations at the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and spokesperson for the Keep Ontario Working Coalition. “If the Ontario government chooses to proceed with these sweeping reforms too quickly, all of us will be affected, and the most vulnerable in our society chief among them.”

Since Bill 148 was introduced in June, the KOW coalition has called on the government to conduct an economic impact analysis to fully understand how the legislation will change Ontario’s economy. With the government unwilling to do so, the report released today represents the first and only independent economic impact analysis of this legislation.

In the coming weeks and months, the KOW coalition will release additional components to the economic impact analysis.

For more details on the economic analysis, visit keepontarioworking.ca

To view CANCEA’s full report, visit www.tinyurl.com/Bill148-Analysis

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About the Keep Ontario Working Coalition:

The Keep Ontario Working Coalition (KOW) is a broad-spectrum group of business sector representatives concerned with sound public policy to help produce jobs and grow Ontario. For more information please visit www.keepontarioworking.ca. Members include:

Association of Canadian Search, Employment and Staffing Services (ACSESS)

Canadian Franchise Association (CFA)

Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers

Food & Consumer Products of Canada (FCPC)

Food and Beverage Ontario (FBO)

National Association of Canada Consulting Businesses (NACCB Canada)

Ontario Restaurant, Hotel and Motel Association (ORHMA)

Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC)

Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA)

Ontario Forest Industries Association (OFIA)

Ontario Home Builders’ Association (OHBA)

Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA)

Restaurants Canada

Retail Council of Canada (RCC)

Tourism Industry Association of Ontario (TIAO)

About CANCEA:

CANCEA is a state-of-the-art interdisciplinary research organization that is dedicated to objective, independent and evidence based analysis. They have a long history of providing holistic and collaborative understanding of the short- and long-term risks and returns behind policy decisions and prosperity. For more, go to www.cancea.ca

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber announces 2017-2018 Board of Directors

Fri, 21 Jul 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The results are in, and the members of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce have officially elected six individuals to represent them at the heart of the city’s largest business organization.

“This year’s Board of Directors is made up of well-rounded and accomplished people with a common goal of ensuring Timmins remains a great place to do business,” said Jamie Clarke, incoming 2017-2018 Chamber president, and owner, Tisdale Plumbing Heating & Electrical.

“I look forward to working with these enthusiastic individuals to ensure the needs of our members are being met in the coming year.”

The new additions to the Board include Donna Dorrington, senior counsel and owner of Dorrington and Associates Professional Corporation; and Chantal Magny, owner of Narrative Interiors.

Four directors who served on the Board last year were also elected to return: Daniel Ayotte, president of PAIB Insurance Inc.; Frank Haasen, co-owner of Haasen Farms Limited; Jean-Pierre Nadon, director of Collège Boréal; and Jason Perratt, owner of Logikal Code.

They will be officially sworn in during the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting, due to be held at the Porcupine Dante Club on Wednesday, Sept. 13.

The following is the complete list of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce’s 2017-2018 Board of Directors:

President	Company
Jamie Clarke	Tisdale Plumbing Heating & Electrical
1^st Vice-President	Company
Nancy Mageau	Royal Bank of Canada

Past President	Company
Christine Bender	Northern College
Treasurer	Company
Ginette Nakashoji	MNP LLP
Board Members	Company
Scott Alexander	Restore Physiotherapy Timmins
Dan Ayotte	PAIB Insurance Inc.
Eleanor Baccega	Riopelle Group Professional Corporation
Stéphane Côté	Timmins Building Supplies
John Crescenzi	Hampton Inn by Hilton Timmins / Holiday Inn Express & Suites
Donna Dorrington	Dorrington and Associates Professional Corporation
Larry Gubbels	Wyatt Image Solutions Inc.
Frank Haasen	Haasen Farms
Monique Koski	Millson Forestry Service
Natalie Levasseur	Smiles for Life Dental Hygiene Clinic
Chantal Magny	Narrative Interiors
Zachary Mayer	Kidd Operations
Jean-Pierre Nadon	Collège Boréal
Bryan Neeley	Goldcorp – Porcupine Gold Mines
Jason Perratt	Logikal Code
Val Venneri	James Toyota
Melanie Verreault	Trimeda Consulting Inc.

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

With 700 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Alita Fabiano
Communications and Design Specialist
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
marketing@timminschamber.on.ca

Ontario businesses struggling to find qualified staff: report

Wed, 21 Jun 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Businesses in Timmins and across Ontario are finding it more and more challenging to recruit qualified staff, according to a new report issued today by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) in partnership with the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

The report, Talent in Transition: Addressing the Skills Mismatch in Ontario, indicates that 82 per cent of Ontario businesses who sought to hire staff in 2016 experienced a challenge in finding someone with the proper qualifications.

Similar concerns about the growing skills mismatch are felt by those seeking employment: the report also highlights a general population poll indicating that half of Ontarians are concerned that their skills will no longer be useful or will become less valuable in the next decade.

“Staffing challenges continue to be one of the top issues faced by many Timmins businesses, preventing them from being able to grow or even maintain their current workforce,” said Christine Bender, President of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“It’s an issue on which the Timmins Chamber has been active for many years, and this report indicates that the skills mismatch is a problem clearly shared by firms across the province. It’s therefore crucial that the Ontario government join employers and educators in finding solutions so that we’re able to strengthen our economy and provide meaningful career opportunities.”

To address the issue, the report proposes that the Ontario government work collaboratively to take action on 10 specific recommendations, two of which were crafted from resolutions put forward by the Timmins Chamber, and are identified as such in the report. These include:

• Improving the transition from schools to the workplace by expanding experiential learning opportunities, such as work placements and internships, by collaborating with employers and better funding placement programs, and

• Providing better support to post-secondary Indigenous education programs and follow through on commitments to sustainably fund Aboriginal Institutes.

Developed in partnership within the business and educational sectors, the report also recommends a number of major changes to improve and modernize how Ontario approaches the skilled trades. This includes the need to reform – or, if need be, dismantle -- the Ontario College of Trades to better serve its mandate to assist in attracting and training new tradespeople.

The report also recommends modernization of the apprenticeship systems, including an examination of the ratio for the number of apprentices per journeyperson – an issue that is more prevalent for businesses in smaller urban and remote communities throughout Northern Ontario.

“Ontario employers are finding it more and more challenging to recruit properly qualified talent,” said Richard Koroscil, interim-President and CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce. “If improvements are not made, we will find ourselves in a situation where there are ‘people without jobs and jobs without people. Our latest report identifies opportunities to improve alignment of skills, education, career opportunities.”

This report is just one of many ongoing efforts by the Ontario Chamber network, including the Timmins Chamber of Commerce, is attempting to address the skills mismatch issue on behalf of its members.

The full report, Talent in Transition: Addressing the Skills Mismatch in Ontario, is available at http://tinyurl.com/TalentInTransition

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber warns against potential changes to Ontario’s labour laws

Tue, 30 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Changes to provincial labour laws proposed today by the Ontario government -- including a $15 minimum wage -- may prove devastating for local job creation and business competitiveness, according to the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

The Fair Workplaces, Better Jobs Act, as brought forward by Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne, includes a range of changes to the Labour Relations Act and Employment Standards Act, and is expected to be reviewed by government committees through the summer in anticipation of being passed as legislation this fall. In a letter issued to the Premier last week in partnership with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC), the Timmins Chamber suggested these exact changes could have unintended consequences such as job losses, rising consumer costs, and economic hardship.

The letter warned that these reforms would be particularly challenging for small and medium-sized businesses, which employ 87.3 percent of Ontario residents. Among other issues, applying a flat increase to the minimum wage rather than gradual increases tied to the consumer Price Index (CPI) would remove the transparency, predictability and fairness that businesses require; this would threaten their ability to expand and maintain their workforce while increasing costs for consumers.

The potential reforms are coming at a time when the costs of doing business in Ontario is high, and stand to put Ontario at a greater competitive disadvantage. Ontario has experienced slower growth in GDP and job creation than in the past, and drastic reforms to labour and employment run the risk of causing serious damage to the future prosperity of the province, according to the letter.

“These sweeping changes could seriously impact job creation and the health of our local economy,” said Christine Bender, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce. “There is very real potential for the proposed changes to reduce economic opportunities in Timmins and discourage investment in Ontario. Such decisions must be based on evidence rather than politics.”

The proposed changes also include the implementation of a one-size-fits-all approach by removing all specific exemptions for certain industries and mandating a unified approach to employee scheduling, a move that would ignore the unique needs of such sectors as mining and forestry, key drivers of Timmins’ economy.

To address these concerns and protect Ontario’s businesses and its economy, the Timmins Chamber is insisting alongside the Ontario Chamber that the provincial government spend the coming months examining the economic impact of each proposed change, with an eye on implementing only those that are proven to meet certain economic thresholds, or that are offset by other economic measures.
“We are urging Premier Wynne to complete an economic impact analysis of the proposed reforms to limit potential consequences that could seriously jeopardize our future growth,” said Richard Koroscil, interim president and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. “We support reform where and when it is needed, but we caution against change for change’s sake.”

The OCC’s letter reminds the Premier that Ontario's employer community is doing its part to create a better jobs and working conditions in the province. Budget 2017 points out that 98 percent of all new jobs created since the recession have been full time, and 78 percent have had an above-average wage for their respective industries.

The letter also notes that the goals of economic growth and improved employee rights are not mutually exclusive. The OCC and the Timmins Chamber argue that supporting the competitiveness of Ontario’s economy can also help enhance the quality of work. Increased education and enforcement may assist in complying with government regulations and improving worker environments, but it is counterproductive to establish regulatory reform that significantly impedes business’ ability to grow.

Read the OCC’s previous letter to Premier Wynne at http://tinyurl.com/ONLabourConcerns

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce
With 700 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Nominations open for the 2017-2018 Timmins Chamber Board of Directors

Mon, 15 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Are you interested in making a difference for Timmins' business community? Nominate yourself for the Timmins Chamber of Commerce's 2017-2018 Board of Directors and lend your expertise to the city's largest business organization.

The Nominating Committee of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is calling for nominations for six (6) positions on the Board of Directors for the 2017-2018 term.

Nomination forms will be accepted in person up until 5 p.m. on Wednesday, May 31, 2017, or postmarked on or before that date.

Nomination forms, with nominee information enclosed, can be dropped off or submitted via mail, e-mail or fax to:

Attn: Nominating Committee
Chair: Kurt Bigeau, Immediate Past President
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
Mailing Address: Box 985, Timmins, ON P4N 7H6
Physical Address: 76 McIntyre Road, Schumacher
Fax: (705) 360-1193
Email: krobson@timminschamber.on.ca

Ballots for the six directors will be issued to members in good standing by June 8 and must be returned to the Timmins Chamber of Commerce no later than July 10.

To download the information package, click here.
To download the nomination forms, click here.

Timmins businesses celebrated at 2017 Nova Awards

Thu, 11 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, ON | May 11, 2017: The best of local business was on full display at the McIntyre Arena on May 11 as more than 700 people came out to celebrate the 2017 Nova Business Excellence Awards.

Hosted by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce, the sold-out gala event saw 16 awards given to local firms and entrepreneurs across a range of categories. The ceremony was once again emceed by Art Pultz, a Chamber past president who has overseen the awards portion of the event for all but one of the event’s 15 years.

The slate of 45 nominees – including 16 local young professionals -- that were honoured throughout the evening was a testament to Timmins’ renowned

“The recipients of tonight’s Nova Awards are tremendous examples of the unique talent and passion at the very heart of Timmins’ business community,” said Bender.

“Their achievements are as impressive as they are inspirational, and clearly demonstrate why our entrepreneurs are in a class all their own.”

The recipients of the 2017 Nova Awards were carefully selected from 130 by a committee of six independent community judges. As every year, the judges determine the award recipients based on the quality of the submissions. This is done without any input, influence or oversight from the Chamber Board of Directors or staff, thereby ensuring the validity of the process and the results.

To appropriately celebrate these nominees, the Chamber transformed the McIntyre Arena with a theme of “Where Business Fits Together”, with puzzle pieces being used as a visual motif to show how Timmins organizations and entrepreneurs work together to make Timmins a better place to live, work and play.

“For 15 years, the Timmins Chamber has been proud to use the Nova Awards to showcase the incredible work being done by our business leaders,” said Bender. “When you step back and look at the larger picture of Timmins’ economy, you can see how each one contributes, whether it’s providing jobs, sponsoring sports teams, or funding community projects. It’s why shining a light on these efforts has become an important tradition, and we’re thrilled to see so many attendees join us in celebrating them.”

A photo gallery of the 2017 Nova Awards, spanning the finalists’ reception to the awards ceremony and post-event celebration, will be available at the Chamber’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TimminsChamber

The recipients of the 2016 Nova Awards, and those who accepted on their behalf:

BMT Insurance & Financial Services Business Contribution to the Community Award (1-5 Employees) *Sponsored by BMT Insurance* *& Financial Services*	Tree Bandit Ken Pye, owner
The Venture Centre Business Contribution to the Community Award (6-10 Employees) *Sponsored by The Venture Centre*	Northern Windows & Doors José Duquette, owner
NorthernTel Business Contribution to the Community Award (11+ Employees) *Sponsored by NorthernTel*	Fountain Tire Phil Archambault, owner and manager
FNETB Best Place to Work Award *Sponsored by the Far Northeast Training Board*	Family Eye Care Karine Briand, owner
Collège Boréal Young Professional Award (Under 40) *Sponsored by Collège Boréal*	Katelyn Malo, Black Spruce Gallery & Framing
RBC Marketing Award *Sponsored by RBC Royal Bank*	Radical Gardens Brianna Humphrey, owner and CEO
PIC Productivity, Innovation & Diversification Award Sponsored by the Productivity & Innovation Centre	NORMAP Ankit Sarvaiya, CEO
Northern College Service Excellence Award *Sponsored by Northern College*	Chic Baby & Kids Alicia Pirie, owner
Caisse Populaire de Timmins New Business Award (Under 2 Years) *Sponsored Caisse Populaire de Timmins*	The Working Class John Cayen and Krys Saudino, owners/operators
TD Bank Group Business of the Year Award (1-5 Employees) *Sponsored by TD Bank Group*	Timmins Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai Academy Kris Ratte, owner, and Tessa Mousseau, manager
Scotiabank Business of the Year Award (6-10 Employees) *Sponsored by Scotiabank*	Rainville Health Patrick Rainville, CEO and owner, and Tina Rainville, chiropodist and owner
Kidd Operations Business of the Year Award (11+ Employees) *Sponsored by Kidd Operations*	DJB Mining Products & Services Ltd. *Daniel Brunet, president*
De Beers Canada Indigenous Partnership Award *Sponsored by De Beers Canada*	CreeQuest Tina Gagnon, President and CEO, and Shawn Straten, Director of Indigenous Relations
City of Timmins Non-Profit Organization Award *Sponsored by the City of Timmins*	Timmins Festivals and Events Committee John Olaveson, chair
OPG Lifetime Business Achievement Award *Sponsored by Ontario Power Generation*	Mascioli Construction Co. Ltd. *Phil Mascioli, owner*
President’s Award *Sponsored by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce*	The Bucket Shop Paul Woodward, owner

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber secures major provincial partner in fight for region’s business issues

Wed, 10 May 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The Timmins Chamber of Commerce has secured the support of the province’s largest business advocacy group to assist in taking on six key regional issues, ranging from mining and forestry to workforce development.

At the Ontario Chamber of Commerce's (OCC) annual general meeting in Sarnia on May 4-7, Timmins Chamber representatives successfully urged more than 100 conference attendees to support policies designed to take action on these provincial issues:

Improving Indigenous post-secondary educational opportunities
Reducing permitting delays related to mining exploration
Clarifying the duty to consult
Addressing the impact of climate change on the Far North winter road network
Conducting socio-economic impact studies prior to divesting Crown corporations
Ensuring the use of scientific data and socio-economic impact studies in the development of conservation plans under the Endangered Species Act / Crown Forest Sustainability Act

This success means that the Timmins Chamber policies are now official policy positions of the OCC. As such, the OCC will actively use these positions to push the government for change, supported by the full weight of the 60,000 businesses represented by the organization.

“This is a significant victory for Timmins businesses, and our regional economy as a whole,” said Christine Bender, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“The Ontario Chamber is the province’s most influential business advocacy group, and the adoption of our policies in Sarnia means that the organization will actively lobby for these positions with the provincial government over the next three years. In other words, Timmins Chamber members’ concerns will be heard at the highest levels as a result of this success, which is crucial to help protect our business competitiveness.”

The six policy resolutions posed and adopted in Sarnia are a continuation of the Timmins Chamber’s longstanding efforts to address its members’ concerns regarding issues that matter to them. For instance, workforce shortages are among the most significant challenges for local businesses, and it is widely recognized that Canada’s Indigenous people – the fastest-growing population in the country – must be a key component of Ontario’s strategy. To that end, one of Timmins’ newly adopted resolutions urges the province to do more to provide consistent, improved post-secondary educational opportunities for Indigenous people. Similarly, to help Timmins benefit from its natural advantages in mining and forestry, resolutions were developed to address undue, Ontario-specific obstacles faced by those respective industries.

The Timmins Chamber developed these resolutions based on input from its members as well as its Government Regulation and Policy Committee. As a sign of their broader impact on Northern Ontario, the policies were also co-sponsored at the event by the Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce, Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce, North Bay and District Chamber of Commerce, and the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce.

“Given the importance that each of these issues has for our members, we’re very pleased to be able to advance them at the provincial level," said Bender. "With the Ontario Chamber network now in full support of Timmins’ priorities, we look forward to working with our partners across the province to push for meaningful change.”

The Ontario Chamber event also saw the successful passage of several policies put forward by other Northern Ontario chambers and on which the Timmins Chamber had partnered in the interests of its members. This includes resolutions insisting that the province reinvest cap and trade revenues into industries and communities affected by the program, and that the province create concierge service to make it easier for small business to understand and comply to Ontario regulations.

The Sarnia conference also gave Timmins Chamber representatives the opportunity to hear directly from Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne, PC Leader Patrick Brown and NDP Leader Andrea Horwath on these and other key issues for local businesses.

To view the full versions of the policy that will now be championed by the CCC, please visit the Chamber’s website at www.timminschamber.on.ca, or view them directly at www.tinyurl.com/OCC-AGM-2017

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber has mixed reaction to 2017 provincial budget

Fri, 28 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

Though some measures in the 2017 provincial budget may benefit Timmins businesses, the lack of long-term solutions for rising costs for electricity, cap and trade, and debt interest payments is a concern for the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

The April 27 presentation of the 2017 provincial budget by Finance Minister Charles Sousa proposed several items relevant to the Timmins businesses, including:

A commitment of $190 billion in infrastructure spending over 13 years, including a continued commitment to increase the Connecting Links Funding program from $15 million to $30 million in 2018;
Establishing the 2017 budget as a balanced budget, the first since 2008-2009, with commitments to set a trend of balanced budgets in coming years;
Investing $200 million over three years to support First Nation, Métis, and Inuit learners' access to post-secondary education and training, including $56 million for Aboriginal Institutes;
Creating a Career Kick-Start Strategy, which invests $190 million over three years to create opportunities for graduates and to create more internships; and
The previously announced Fair Hydro Plan, which would allow 25 percent rate reduction for some small businesses.

“There are some elements of the 2017 budget that stand to have some positive impact on Timmins businesses, but what's not included is a much greater issue,” said Bender. “Namely, energy rates continue to be among our members' largest concerns, and while previously announced measures to reduce those rates through the Fair Hydro Plan are certainly appreciated, much more needs to be done. Although some of the announced investments are a step in the right direction, stronger measures must be taken to protect and grow our economy.”

Some positive measures being taken this year include a focus on increasing post-secondary education and training support as a means of addressing workforce shortages -- one of the largest obstacles for Timmins Chamber members, added Bender. Funding new opportunities for graduates through the Career Kick-Start Strategy will help to tackle this issue, as will the $200 million for First Nation, Métis and Inuit learners' access to education and training.

Similarly, the commitment to increase the Connecting Link funding program to $30 million is welcome, but remains insufficient for communities' needs, said Bender. This fund assists the 77 municipalities to which the province has downloaded the responsibility of maintaining 350 kilometres of Connecting Links – portions of provincial highways traveling through municipalities. The cost to repair Timmins' 21.2 kilometres of Connecting Link is estimated at roughly $120 million, but the city was recently refused any funding for its planned 2017 work.

"The budget's lack of specific measures to clarify the use of cap and trade revenues is unfortunate, as these costs represent a major challenge to Timmins businesses’ competitiveness," said Bender. "Ontario's regulatory burden is already quite significant, and careful reinvestment of cap and trade funds could help businesses to reduce their costs under this system. These issues must be addressed, and we look forward to working with the provincial government to undertake measures that will support our businesses and our economy."

The government’s elimination of the deficit in this budget represents a step in the right direction, but there remains no indication of whether Ontario would seek to pay down its debt. At roughly $318 billion, the province's debt load means that interest payments will consume ever-greater portions of the budget; currently, interest payments are $11.6 billion per year, and represent the province's largest expense. This has already led credit rating agencies to downgrade Ontario’s outlook from stable to negative in recent years.

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) shared similar concerns about the growing provincial debt load, which contributes to lower business confidence, according to Richard Koroscil, Interim President & CEO, Ontario Chamber of Commerce.

“Budget 2017 demonstrates that much of Ontario’s fiscal outlook will depend on the prosperity of our private sector,” said Koroscil. “The government acknowledged that business investment spending slowed in 2016, though expects firms to increase investment by 3.1 percent, annually, to 2020 – an amount that would outpace growth in real GDP growth and household spending. These assumptions depend upon business confidence – which has fallen precipitously in recent years according to the Ontario Economic Report – and U.S. demand, which is subject to considerable risk given recent comments by American President Donald Trump.”

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Ontario must do more to help business adapt to cap and trade: Timmins Chamber

Wed, 05 Apr 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The Ontario’s upcoming 2017 budget should direct proceeds from the new cap and trade system to help reduce the burden on the province’s business community, according to a letter issued today by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) with the support of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

Issued to Premier Kathleen Wynne, the letter highlights the considerable challenges that businesses across Ontario already face in the form of energy rates, workforce recruitment and retention, and provincial red tape. The addition of cap and trade adds to the cost of doing business in Ontario, and risks further investments and jobs in Timmins and across the province.

To address the issue, the province should use cap and trade revenues to help offset the overall increase in the cost of doing business in Ontario, according to the letter’s recommendations. This is especially important for global competitiveness, as Ontario businesses are competing with firms in many jurisdictions, including most of the United States, which are not subject to similar programs. This means that businesses in Ontario who face cap and trade costs are at a distinct disadvantage – something the provincial government should rectify within the 2017 budget, said Timmins Chamber President Christine Bender.

“Cap and trade costs represent another major challenge to Timmins businesses’ competitiveness at a time where the cumulative regulatory burden in Ontario is already quite significant,” said Bender.

“Careful reinvestment of cap and trade funds could help businesses to reduce their carbon footprint and therefore their costs under this system. It is for this reason that, along with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, we are calling on the Premier to take action and support our businesses and our economy.”

In the letter to Premier Wynne, the OCC has identified four priority actions that would assist the business community to better navigate the cap and trade system:

Prioritize the allocation of cap and trade revenue for businesses, in addition to other efforts to offset the cost of cap and trade. Making the process to access resources as quickly as possible will be important, especially for smaller businesses who have little time or money to dedicate to program applications.
Prioritize innovation funding. Many Ontario businesses have already taken steps to reduce their carbon footprint. Achieving further reductions could be difficult and will often require the implementation of new technologies.
Create greater post-2020 design certainty. Post-2020 certainty is important for businesses looking to make long-term investments in Ontario.
Monitor and respond to regional impacts. To ensure the strategic allocation of cap and trade revenues, government should conduct a regional analysis of the impacts.

“Increased input costs imposed on the private sector mean that Ontario risks losing out on jobs and investment, and risks an economically and environmentally damaging shift in production to jurisdictions that are not taking action to reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions,” said Graham Henderson, Chair of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. “More action must be taken. In all policy decisions, the provincial government must consider how we can prevent exporting jobs while importing pollution.”

The letter is aimed at impacting government policy in Budget 2017, and builds on the OCC’s meetings with senior government officials. These meetings have emphasized the need to ensure Ontario’s businesses remain competitive and confident in the face of a changing economy.

The Timmins Chamber of Commerce and Ontario’s Chamber network have engaged in significant advocacy on the cap and trade issue since 2015. This letter builds on the Timmins Chamber’s partnership with the OCC to call on the Ontario Energy Board to disclose cap and trade costs to taxpayers as a line-item on natural gas bills. Last year, the Timmins Chamber also joined the Ontario Chamber network in pushing the government to delay the implementation of the cap and trade system until 2018.

To view the OCC’s letter to Ontario Premier Kathleen Wynne, visit www.tinyurl.com/CapTradeApril2017

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Federal budget a mixed bag for Timmins businesses, says Timmins Chamber

Thu, 23 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The 2017 federal budget’s promises of investments in skills training, Indigenous education and duty to consult are somewhat marred by ongoing deficits and rising costs, according to the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

Though there are causes for concern, Timmins businesses should see a positive impact from the following elements of the federal budget, as tabled on March 22 by Finance Minister Bill Morneau:

$3.1 million over three years to establish a secretariat to support the Working Group on the Review of Laws and Policies related to Indigenous Peoples, and $24 million per year on an ongoing basis to support the timely resolution of specific land claims;
$90 million over two years to increase funding to support post-secondary student support programs for Indigenous Peoples;
$1.8 billion over six years to expand Employment Insurance training programs through Labour Market Development Agreements with the provinces;
Another one-year extension of the 15-per-cent Mineral Exploration Tax Credit for flow-through share investors.

"While we take issue with some elements of the 2017 federal budget, it generally helps to make Canada a more competitive environemtn, and it includes several items that could have a positive impact on Timmins businesses," said Timmins Chamber President Christine Bender.

“We’re extremely pleased to see that our advocacy throughout the last year, including our successful push to have the Canadian Chamber network adopt our policies in September, have helped the federal government to prioritize the need to clarify resource industries’ duty to consult with Indigenous communities. The lack of a clear framework on how businesses and Indigenous communities should approach this process creates uncertainty for resource development projects, and the need for direction is crucial; as such, we’re very happy to see that our efforts to push the federal government on this file have borne fruit.”

Also of interest to Timmins business community is the 2017 budget’s focus on staffing and skills training, given that these concerns continue to be a major priority for many Timmins businesses. With nearly $5 billion across a range of programs, the budget also promises to help improve the timeliness of the Express Entry system for permanent residents, and to expand support under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program.

Timmins businesses should also be pleased to note the federal government’s follow-through on its promise to not enact a tax on employer-sponsored health and dental benefits. Such a move could have led to as many as 50 percent of small businesses in Canada reducing coverage for their employees. Following vocal opposition by the Timmins Chamber and others within the chamber network, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau suggested in February that it would be omitted from the final 2017 budget -- a promise that has thankfully been kept, said Bender.

However, the federal budget also contains some items of concern for the Timmins Chamber. Positive news about Employment Insurance (EI) – unemployed workers will be able to seek training without losing benefits – was offset by the news that EI premiums are set to rise by 3 percent in 2018, or $1.68 per $100 of insurable earnings. This is a frustration for small businesses who already face a range of regulatory challenges and escalating costs, said Bender.

The considerable deficit of $28.6 billion is also an issue, with no apparent plans to return to balance; this poses some questions about the country’s fiscal footing, and further fiscal complications this imbalance could eventually create.

“The measures to address some of our members’ more pressing issues are to be commended, but there is arguably too little in the budget to address the rising costs that businesses continue to face,” said Bender.

These frustrations were also shared by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, which was cautiously optimistic about the government’s planned investments in infrastructure.

“While we welcome specific measures in the budget on skills and innovation, our international competitors are racing ahead,” said the Hon. Perrin Beatty, President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. “The U.S. election was a game-changer, yet the budget is written as if nothing has changed. As our number one trading partner rolls back regulation and cuts taxes, Canadian businesses face more regulation and increased costs imposed by all levels of government for fees, taxes and essential inputs like electricity.”

Beatty called upon the federal government to meet urgently with the provinces to identify specific measures to cut the cost of doing business in Canada.

“The Canadian economy is fueled by trade, yet there has been nearly no export growth in the past two years, and business investment has decreased for nine straight quarters. Despite this, governments still don’t seem to recognize the problem,” said Beatty. “We need a national strategy and it should be announced in the fall economic update at the very latest.”

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Media contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Finalists announced for 2017 Nova Awards

Thu, 09 Mar 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The Timmins Chamber of Commerce has officially announced 45 local businesses, organizations and individuals as finalists for the 2016 Nova Business Excellence Awards, the region’s biggest celebration of entrepreneurial achievement.

A panel of six independent community judges narrowed 130 nominations down to three finalists in each of 15 categories. Representing some of the best and brightest of Timmins’ business community, these finalists will be celebrated at the Nova Awards’ gala evening, to be held at the McIntyre Arena on May 11.

Now in its 15th year, the annual awards gala shares the success stories of Timmins businesses and highlights the positive impact they have on the community. The quality of the nominees for this year’s awards is a testament to that strength and creativity, said Christine Bender, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“The Nova Awards are designed to highlight the very best that our business community has to offer, and as always, we are in awe of the quality of the nominations we’ve received this year,” said Bender.

“Timmins is recognized internationally for our knowledge and expertise, and when you look at our list of finalists, it’s easy to see why. We’re thrilled to be able to honour these amazing entrepreneurs through the Nova Awards, and we look forward to having Timmins join us in our celebration on May 11.”

The theme for this year’s gala evening will be “Where Business Fits Together,” said Bender, with puzzle pieces being used as a visual motif to show how Timmins organizations and entrepreneurs work together to make Timmins a better place to live, work and play.

“When you step back and look at the larger picture of Timmins’ economy, you can see countless businesses contributing to the community in ways big and small, each and every day. Our entrepreneurs are also our neighbors, and they strengthen our economy while funding scholarships, sponsoring sports teams, and providing jobs. The Nova Awards shine a light on some of this important work, and we’re proud to do this for 15 remarkable years.”

Tickets to the gala event will go on sale March 21 at $125 plus HST, or $100 plus HST for Chamber members, and tables of 10 are available. Ticket reservations can be made via email at info@timminschamber.on.ca

A photo gallery of finalists receiving their notifications is available at http://tinyurl.com/2017NovaFinalists

2017 Nova Business Excellence Awards Finalists

BMT Insurance & Financial Services Business Contribution to the Community Award (1-5 Employees)

BioPed Footcare

Near North Video Productions

Tree Bandit

The Venture Centre Business Contribution to Community Award (6-10 Employees)
Albert's Sports & Work Wear Ltd.

Bermuda Tan

Northern Windows & Doors

NorthernTel Business Contribution to Community Award (11+ Employees)

Fountain Tire

St. Mary's Gardens

Vets Taxi & Dispatch Service Inc.

FNETB Best Place to Work Award

Family Eye Care

Gosselin Law Firm Professional Corporation

Great White North Technology Consulting Inc.

Collège Boréal Young Professional Award (Under 40)

Natisha McLeod, Beautiful Noise

Katelyn Malo, Black Spruce Gallery & Framing

Dr. Michael Popovic, Timmins Chiropractic Clinic

RBC Marketing Award

Bella Esthetics & Spa

O'Reilly Sports

Radical Gardens

PIC Productivity, Innovation & Diversification Award

Handy Hydrant

NORMAP

PAIB Insurance Inc.

Northern College Service Excellence Award

Chic Baby & Kids

Hampton Inn by Hilton Timmins

Lemongrass

Caisse Populaire de Timmins New Business Award (Under 2 years)

Get Ribbed Smokehouse & BBQ Pit

The Working Class

Z Timmins Inc.

TD Bank Group Business of the Year Award

(1-5 Employees)

Quantum Realty Services Ltd.

Timmins Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai Academy

Workforce North

Scotiabank Business of the Year Award

(6-10 Employees)

Emergency Response & Support Services

Rainville Health

Timmins Flower Shop Inc.

Kidd Operations Business of the Year Award (11+ Employees)

Attawapiskat Enterprises

DJB Mining Products & Services Ltd.

The Bucket Shop

De Beers Canada Indigenous Partnership Award

Cree Quest

Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund

NORCAT and Temiskaming Native Women's Support Group

City of Timmins Non-Profit Organization

Award

Anti-Hunger Coalition Timmins

Northern College

Timmins Festivals and Events Committee

OPG Lifetime Business Achievement Award

John's Neon Signs Ltd.

Mascioli Construction Co. Ltd.

Timmins Garage Inc.

President’s Award

To be announced at the Nova Awards on May 11

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Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Focus upcoming Ontario budget on infrastructure and growth, says Timmins Chamber

Wed, 22 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The 2017 Ontario budget should look to balance the books while addressing infrastructure for Connecting Link highways and broadband, according to a pre-budget submission issued by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) in partnership with the Timmins Chamber.

These are among the 13 specific recommendations outlined in the submission, which was presented to Queen’s Park today as a roadmap for fiscal prudence and economic growth.

The submission also includes the Timmins Chamber’s long-time request for the province to be much more transparent and financially diligent when looking to divest Crown corporations such as the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC), Hydro One, or Ontera -- the latter being the ONTC’s former telecommunications firm, which the province divested in 2014 at a $61-million loss. As such, the OCC is recommending the province only seek to divest any Crown corporation following a comprehensive business case and socio-economic impact study.

The inclusion of these concerns in the OCC submission is the direct result of advocacy efforts by the Timmins Chamber, which has worked diligently to have its members’ voices heard at the provincial level. Local concerns about funding for Connecting Links – municipal roads connecting two ends of a provincial highway, which in Timmins total 21 kilometres’ worth – and Crown corporation divestment were originally raised by the Timmins Chamber and passed as policy resolutions at OCC annual general meetings in recent years. As a result of that work and its subsequent inclusion in this pre-budget submission, those concerns are now being communicated directly to government on their behalf by the largest business advocacy group in Ontario, demonstrating the ability of Timmins Chamber member businesses to be heard at all levels.

“While we applaud the provincial government’s recent efforts to address these issues, it’s clear that more needs to be done,” said Christine Bender, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“Government must focus on reducing the cost of doing business in Ontario, supporting strategic infrastructure development, and strengthening business competitiveness to allow places like Timmins to thrive.”

In the submission, Ontario’s Chamber network is also calling on the government to provide the leeway to confront mounting cost of doing business, including energy rates, by balancing the provincial budget by 2017-2018. Such action would result in a more attractive environment for business investment and growth, according to the report.

With more government services going digital, the submission also indicates that citizens from all corners of the province must have access to ultra-high-speed Internet. For some areas of the province, including the Timmins area, a lack of access to broadband has compromised the ability to connect with essential government services, and has crippled businesses’ capacity to compete in the technology-driven economy. As cited in the OCC’s submission, government must “bridge the broadband gap” by considering this type of technology as a fundamental piece of infrastructure and address the inadequacy of ultra high-speed Internet in Ontario communities.

“The Government of Ontario must ensure that it utilizes the budget as a tool for economic growth to support Ontario businesses,” said Allan O’Dette, president and CEO of the OCC. “By taking more authoritative action on this issue, we can ensure that Ontario remains an attractive environment for capital investment.”

Addressing the current fiscal context and achieving a balanced budget is an underlying theme throughout the pre-budget submission. Ontario’s Chamber network is committed to working with the Ontario government to ensure the future economic success of the province.

To download the full 2017 Ontario pre-budget submission, visit https://tinyurl.com/2017-Ontario-Pre-budget

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Northeastern Ontario to see small rebound despite challenges: report

Tue, 07 Feb 2017 00:00:00 GMT

The economy of northeastern Ontario is projected to see a small rebound through 2018 despite ongoing challenges, according to Ontario Economic Report 2017, issued today by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

As a new annual document designed to shape and inform public policy, the Ontario Economic Report (OER) features not only projections about the region’s outlook – as conducted by Central 1 Credit Union – but also the results of a business confidence survey, as well as a business prosperity index. Combined, the data from these documents demonstrate broad challenges faced by Ontario’s economy, businesses, and consumers in 2017.

The OER suggests that a positive outlook for forestry, construction, transportation and accommodation sectors will help offset negative factors such as continued outmigration, staffing challenges, and rising energy rates.

“Businesses in the northeast – and Timmins in particular – are seeing some cautious growth, despite their grave concerns about the regulatory burden in Ontario,” says Christine Bender, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“Our businesses face higher electricity costs and further distance to markets, and their success in face of these challenges certainly speaks to their resilience and their determination.”

The OER points out that these successes are being achieved despite considerable challenges: increased costs associated with production of goods, as well as regulation and housing have resulted in weak market and labour force activity. As a result, the report says that many manufacturing businesses across Ontario are operating in a risk-averse environment in which they are disinclined to grow production by investing or hiring. Manufacturers in the Northeast region, however, are tentatively anticipating a positive year despite these challenges, according to the OER.

This is reflected by the broader economic outlook data, which further reveals the unemployment rate in the Northeast economic region will continue to drop, from 7.2 percent in 2016 to a projected 6.7 percent in 2017. This is the result of the rise in the labour force in the face of negative net migration, which is projected to be higher in the northeast than in any other economic region of Ontario.

The median residential price is also expected to jump 2.7 percent to $193,000, though Timmins specifically is identified as having lower projected housing sales than other areas of the northeast.

“Our research shows that Ontario’s economic climate is posing challenges to the businesses we represent and Ontarians more broadly,” said Allan O’Dette, President and CEO of the OCC. “Investment is being held back because of a high perception of risk. We need immediate action in order for our province to continue to grow and prosper.”

This is a trend that is felt by individual firms, according to the results of the OER’s business confidence survey. While only 24 percent of businesses indicated any confidence in Ontario’s economic outlook, nearly two-thirds

were confident about their own organization’s outlook. Of those, medium and large firms have higher rates of confidence than smaller businesses, of which only 41 percent anticipate increasing their revenue or workforce in 2017.

“For many years, the voice of Ontario business has cautioned that regulatory burdens, high input costs, and government policies not attuned to innovation have hampered economic growth,” added O’Dette. “The findings in the OER reinforce this, and indicate that there are also structural issues impeding our province’s potential.”

To address these issues, the OER also highlights specific policy issues that the Ontario Chambers intends to focus on in 2017 – namely workforce development, infrastructure, and health care. It will also place a major focus on energy rates, and has asked the Timmins Chamber of Commerce to partner with it as it examines the issue throughout the coming year.

To view the full Ontario Economic Report 2017, visit www.tinyurl.com/OER2017

To view the Economic Analysis of Ontario by Central 1 Credit Union, visit www.tinyurl.com/OER2017-Analysis

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Twenty chambers of commerce across Ontario continue to push province to defer cap and trade program

Tue, 20 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Following more than a year of repeated requests, 20 chambers of commerce across Ontario – including the Timmins Chamber – today issued yet another call for the provincial government to defer its cap and trade program, which is currently scheduled to be implemented January 1, 2017.

The joint coalition of business organizations, which also includes chambers from across northern Ontario, again pointed to the high costs of the program that will be layered onto skyrocketing electricity prices. As well, the lack of any provincial analysis of how cap and trade costs will affect individual business sectors prior to implementation leaves Ontario firms at great risk, according to Timmins Chamber President Chris Bender.

“We have consistently expressed our grave concerns of the potential economic impact that cap and trade will have on businesses big and small throughout our region, but we still are left with few answers and little clarity,” said Bender.

“With implementation of cap and trade less than two weeks away, we are still left with many of these concerns, and no real sense of what this will mean for our economy in the long term.”

In Ontario, since 2004, electricity prices have increased by 383%, from a flat rate of 4.7 cents a kilowatt hour to 18 cents a kilowatt hour at peak times. The introduction of the cap and trade system will add further charges on natural gas, gasoline and diesel fuel that will be keenly felt by every individual and business in Ontario. For example, fuel costs will increase by 4.3 cents per litre, and initial estimates indicate that a typical business’ natural gas bills will likely rise $6,700 per year. Similarly, some large mining firms in northeastern Ontario are expecting cap and trade will add upwards of $10 million to their annual costs. These cumulative costs will apply across countless and as-yet-unknown Ontario businesses and sectors, and will have ripple effects across the entire economy, said Bender.

This pressing call by the joint coalition of chambers is in keeping with the advocacy work they have undertaken throughout the year in pressing for a deferral of the cap and trade program, as well as more transparency around pricing. This includes working together to pass a resolution at the Ontario Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting in May 2016, where the Timmins Chamber was one of several to push for the program be deferred until 2018 as it was developed in too short a timeframe and with too little information regarding its impact on the provincial economy.

With an anticipated change in environmental policy direction in the United States under the incoming Trump administration, it remains uncertain as to how many individual states would opt into a cap and trade regime. Combined with the Canadian government’s looming plans to develop its own federal cap and trade initiative, it is important that Ontario take a step back and analyze how best to position itself so as to be appropriately competitive with its largest trading partner, and with its neighboring provinces, said Bender.

“Now is not the time to pass sweeping changes without being aware of what this will mean for our businesses, particularly given the equally significant changes set to happen both in the U.S. and across Canada. We must analyze the impact and do everything we can to ensure Ontario businesses are competitive."

The list of participating chambers in this initiative include:

Ajax Pickering Chamber of Commerce
Burlington Chamber of Commerce
Chatham-Kent Chamber of Commerce
Greater Kitchener Waterloo
Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce
Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce
Hamilton Chamber of Commerce
Ingersoll Chamber of Commerce
Kingston Chamber of Commerce
London Chamber of Commerce
North Bay Chamber of Commerce
Northwestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce
Newmarket Chamber of Commerce
Sault Ste Marie Chamber of Commerce
Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce
St Thomas & District Chamber of Commerce
Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce
Tillsonburg District Chamber of Commerce
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
Windsor-Essex Chamber of Commerce

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Media contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Northern chambers demand more affordability, transparency in Ontario’s energy system

Fri, 16 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMT

In partnership with business leaders from across Northern Ontario, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is urging the province to address the regional challenges posed by the lack of affordability and transparency in energy pricing as it builds its Long-Term Energy Plan 2017 (LTEP).

In a joint submission to the Ontario government’s LTEP review process, which will help form the basis of Ontario’s energy strategy over the next 20 years, the Timmins Chamber called on the province to ensure its approach reflects the realities of doing business in the North. Soaring electricity costs have been felt more acutely in the North due to harsher seasonal climates, greater transportation costs, and a larger number of natural-resource-sector firms who are counted among the province’s largest users of energy.

It is crucial that the province consider the growing impact this sector is having on the North’s ability to attract and retain businesses, according to the submission, which was issued in partnership with the Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce, Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce, Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce, and North Bay and District Chamber of Commerce.

"The geographic and economic realities of Northern Ontario mean that energy costs make up a greater portion of a business' expenses here than elsewhere in the province," says Timmins Chamber President Christine Bender.

"It’s no surprise that our member businesses have routinely identified the rising cost of energy as their largest challenge, as these prices have continued to climb at an unsustainable rate. The province has taken some commendable steps in recent years, such as the establishment of the Northern Industrial Electricity Rate program, but much more needs to be done, which is what we have tried to identify with our LTEP submission."

In order to address these concerns, the northern Chambers’ joint submission proposes 12 recommendations, a few of which include the following:

• Include economic development among the principles governing the province’s approach to energy within the LTEP. Economic development should be the first and over-riding principle.

• Increase transparency and offer greater detail on how government will achieve targeted greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions, including what support government will offer to businesses so they can remain prosperous while finding innovative solutions to reduce their emissions.

• Clarify the global adjustment (GA) so that ratepayers can better understand their electricity bills. Take steps to reduce the GA as a portion of electricity bills so that businesses are able to see real savings from their conservation efforts.

• Expand access to natural gas pipelines and improve the electricity transmission grid to ensure communities can develop and businesses can afford to invest in Northern Ontario.

• Increase transparency and accountability by publishing additional details about cap and trade; this should include specifying how proceeds from cap and trade will be spent to help transitioning businesses, and publishing regular economic impact assessments on how cap and trade is affecting local businesses and supply chains.

A recent report issued by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, Top 3 Obstacles to Small Business Success, indicated that one in 20 Ontario businesses expect to close their doors in the next five years due to rising electricity prices. In addition, 38 percent will see their bottom line shrink, with the cost of electricity delaying or canceling investment in the years to come.

These concerns are only exacerbated by the considerable uncertainties around the implementation of Ontario’s pending cap and trade program, which will take effect Jan. 1, 2017. Despite repeated requests by business, many questions still remain about the full impact of cap and trade, and how proceeds from the program will be spent.

“Given the looming impact of Ontario’s cap and trade system on our region’s businesses, and the many unanswered questions surrounding its design, we will continue to work together with chambers across the North to address this issue,” said Bender.

You can find the complete submission and the full list of recommendations put forward by the Northern Ontario chambers of commerce at www.tinyurl.com/LTEP2017

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Media contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber opens nominations for 2017 Nova Awards

Fri, 16 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Nominations are now being accepted for the Timmins Chamber of Commerce’s 2017 Nova Business Excellence Awards, the region’s biggest celebration of entrepreneurial achievement.

To be held at the McIntyre Arena on May 11, 2017, the annual Nova Awards are a prestigious gala event recognizing the best of Timmins business across 15 categories. This marks the 15^th consecutive year that the Nova Awards serve to highlight local business excellence.

A record-breaking 700 people attended in 2016, and next year’s event promises to uphold this reputation as a fantastic way to celebrate business success, according to Chris Bender, President of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“Over the last decade and a half, the Nova Awards have become a very special opportunity to shine a light on Timmins’ best and brightest entrepreneurs, and to celebrate those who make Timmins a great place to do business,” said Bender.

“That said, the best can’t be celebrated unless they’re nominated, so we’re looking to the public to tell us who they think is worthy by nominating their friend, boss, client, family member, or even themselves. Fill in the simple online form and let us know what makes them stand out.”

Nominees are now being accepted for the following awards:

BMT Insurance & Financial Services Business Contribution to the Community Award (1-5 Employees)
The Venture Centre Business Contribution to the Community Award (6-10 Employees)
NorthernTel Business Contribution to the Community Award (11+ Employees)
FNETB Best Place to Work Award
Collège Boréal Young Professional Award (Under 40)
RBC Marketing Award
PIC Productivity, Innovation & Diversification Award
Northern College Service Excellence Award
Caisse Populaire de Timmins New Business Award (Under 2 Years)
TD Bank Group Business of the Year Award (1-5 Employees)
Scotiabank Business of the Year Award (6-10 Employees)
Kidd Operations Business of the Year Award (11+ Employees)
De Beers Canada Indigenous Partnership Award
City of Timmins Non-Profit Organization Award
Lifetime Business Achievement Award

This year’s Nova Awards will feature a theme of “Where Business Fits Together,” with puzzle pieces as a

visual motif. This is appropriate, said Bender, as the Nova Awards help to show how the individuals and organizations of our business community are working together to make Timmins a better place to live, work and play.

“Every business in our community, big and small, is an important part of our economy. We’re proud that this is something we can help to highlight for our 15^th consecutive year.”

Nomination packages are available online at http://tinyurl.com/NovaAwards2017, and submissions will be accepted until February 2, 2017. Finalists will be notified on March 7, and a full public announcement will be made March 9.

Tickets for the Nova Awards will go on sale March 21, 2017.

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Media contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

City budget should focus on cost control, transparency: Timmins Chamber

Wed, 07 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, ON | December 6, 2016—Council should focus its efforts on reducing costs, enhancing spending transparency, and making the most of those dollars being spent within the upcoming municipal budget, according to the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

These ideas formed the core of the organization’s annual presentation, made by Chamber President Chris Bender and the Chamber’s Municipal Affairs Committee Chair Jamie Clarke on Nov. 30 as part of its efforts to provide the business community’s feedback as City Council develops the 2017 municipal budget.

In particular, the Chamber hailed council for its commitments to reduce the overall budget by two percent, and commended its push to identify efficiencies that would help to achieve this target. However, Bender pointed out that Chamber members are urging council to also consider making difficult decisions: namely, to review the range of services it offers so as to identify potential items which do not offer sufficient public value.

“It’s important to point out that any decision to enhance existing services will ultimately add to the city’s tax rates at a time where Timmins has already been identified as having the fastest-rising property taxes in Ontario over the last 10 years,” said Bender.

“Moreover, these rates are increasingly complicating businesses’ ability to attract staff to the region, and departmental efficiencies alone cannot address the issue; as such, a careful but judicious look must also be taken at services. As pointed out in the core services review, Timmins already enjoys levels of service far above what is expected for a community of our size, and while we certainly prize the quality of life attributed with them, council must also acknowledge their very real impact on taxes.”

However, this approach also means that council should continue to focus spending on initiatives that improve Timmins’ infrastructure so as to encourage business attraction and expansion, said Bender. This means Chamber members support City efforts to address municipal roads, and to advocate for enhanced Connecting Link funding. The ongoing efforts by the Timmins Economic Development Corporation to attract tenants to the new industrial park are equally welcome, and should be supported, said Bender.

Investment must be done carefully, however, and that means conducting appropriate amounts of due diligence on potential financial decisions, according to the Chamber. To that end, the Chamber urged the City to find ways to reduce its growing reliance on sole-sourced RFPs so that council – and therefore taxpayers – have the ability to know whether it is getting the best bang for its buck.

To that same end, the Chamber is urging council to adopt greater transparency, including on its approach to projects that have already seen considerable spending. This includes two reports completed two years ago as part of the Timmins 2020 community readiness plan: the Housing Report and the Culture, Tourism and Recreation Master Plans, which have yet to be examined by council. Given that they cost a combined $400,000, it would be in the best interest of the city to at least review their recommendations. This would also assist the Chamber as it seeks to determine which items its members would best be able to support, because without a thorough examination by council and a subsequent identification of costs, it continues to be impossible for the business community to understand the financial and departmental impact of supporting individual items.

That same level of clarity is something which should also ideally apply to all financial decisions to be made by council; unfortunately, there has been less consistency on this front of late, complicating the business community’s ability to gauge decisions made on its behalf. Some issues, such as the smoking bylaw, have seen six months of consultation; conversely, the public remained unaware of months of in-camera debate on the Canada 150 celebrations until the same day of their approval.

“Again, we fully recognize and respect that, in the case of the fireworks festival, delicate negotiations prevented council from discussing much of the finer details in advance of the Oct. 3 council decision to commit to the $3.5 million cost,” said Bender. “However, even a vague announcement as to the general pursuit of the project in advance of the decision would have helped to provide more confidence in council spending, and it’s something we hope council keeps in mind going forward.”

To view the report, visit http://tinyurl.com/TimminsBudget2017

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber brings business community’s concerns to Queen’s Park

Wed, 07 Dec 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, ON | December 7, 2016—The provincial issues faced by Timmins Chamber of Commerce members were front and centre with government leaders in Toronto on Nov. 29-30, when Timmins Chamber representatives joined other chambers from across Northern Ontario at Queen’s Park for two days of advocacy and discussion on northern issues.

Joining the Timmins Chamber were the chambers from Sault Ste. Marie and Sudbury, as well as representatives from the Sault’s Innovation Centre, the Sault Ste. Marie Economic Development Corporation, the Port of Algoma, and the Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation (CEMI). Representatives from the Thunder Bay and North Bay chambers were not able to attend due to other conflicts, though their views were communicated as part of the Northern mission.

“Many of the problems that our businesses face in Northern Ontario are specific to our region or tend to have a far greater impact than firms in Southern Ontario,” said Chris Bender, president of the Timmins Chamber.

“We felt it was important to work with our colleagues across the North to speak out as a collective voice on these problems, and to travel to Queen’s Park to speak directly to all key decision-makers about the recommendations and solutions that make sense for our region. One size does not fit all, and what may work for Southern Ontario may not for the North; as such, we felt it was important to directly approach government on important issues such as energy prices, labour issues, cap and trade concerns, transportation costs, and more.”

The Queen’s Park mission included meetings and discussions with:

• The Honourable Deborah Mathews, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Development, Minister Responsible for Digital Government & Deputy Premier

• Ted Arnott, Critic, Labour

• The Office of the Honourable Charles Sousa, Minister of Finance

• The Honourable Glenn Thibeault, Minister of Energy and senior staff from the Office of the Honourable Michael Gravelle, Minister of Northern Development and Mines

• Patrick Brown, Leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario & Critic, Education

• Cristina Martins, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Economic Development and Growth

• The Honourable Jeff Leal, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

• John Vanthof, Commissioner of the Board of Internal Economy & Critic, Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

• Lisa Thompson, Critic, Environment and Cap-and-Trade

• Vic Fedeli, Critic, Finance

• Wayne Gates, Critic, Transportation

• The Office of the Honourable Bill Mauro, Minister of Municipal Affairs

• The Office of the Honourable Bob Chiarelli, Minister of Infrastructure

• The Office of the Honourable Glen Murray, Minister of the Environment and Climate Change

• The Office of the Honourable Michael Chan, Minister of International Trade

• Ernie Hardeman, Critic, Municipal Affairs and Housing

• Andrea Horwath, Leader of the New Democratic Party of Ontario and Critic, Intergovernmental Affairs

The event also included a Northern Ontario luncheon reception where the northern chambers invited Ministers, opposition leaders, critics, MPPs and government staff to attend. The reception provided the opportunity to meet in a more relaxed and informal setting.

This was the first Northern Ontario Chambers’ delegation to Queen’s Park. The two days of advocacy at Queen’s Park not only allowed for lobbying on Northern-Ontario-specific business issues but also helped the chambers to advance the unique opportunities that exist in the North, said Bender.

“The goals of this mission were threefold: to raise awareness of Northern issues, to propose specific solutions to those issues, and to lay the groundwork for future collaboration with all sides of the House, and I’m pleased to say the Timmins Chamber feels it was successful in all aspects. The feedback we’ve received from those many meetings has been very positive, and we certainly are pleased to be able to continue these many conversations on our members’ pressing concerns.”

The delegation from the Timmins Chamber included Zachary Mayer, manager of mine technical services, Kidd Operations, and member of the Timmins Chamber Board of Directors; Keitha Robson, CAO of the Timmins Chamber; and Nick Stewart, manager of policy, research and communications, Timmins Chamber.

To view photos from the event, click here.

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Mayor Steve Black speaks about city's opportunities, challenges at Chamber event

Wed, 19 Oct 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, ON | October 19, 2016—Timmins Mayor Steve Black offered his perspective on the city's challenges and opportunities as part of a keynote presentation made today during the Timmins Chamber-hosted annual Mayor's State of the City Address.

To view a transcript of his presentation, which was featured as part of Small Business Week, please click here.
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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Small businesses face big problems, says Ontario Chamber report

Tue, 18 Oct 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, ON | October 18, 2016—Small businesses are key to Ontario’s economy but face significant challenges in the form of energy rates, workforce gaps, and infrastructure funding, according to a new report released yesterday by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) in partnership with the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

Marking the beginning of Small Business Week 2016, the release of Obstacles and Opportunities for Small Business in Ontario highlights the contributions of small businesses to the provincial economy, while also offering 16 solutions to the most pressing challenges that small business owners face.

“The rising cost of doing business in Ontario and the struggle to find qualified workers continue to be major obstacles to small business growth in Timmins,” says Timmins Chamber President Chris Bender.

“Our members have increasingly identified these as their most pressing concerns, and this report makes it clear that these issues are shared throughout the province. As such, it is crucial for government to work with business to reduce operational costs and support growth in our region.”

Addressing these issues is crucial, says Bender, given that the report also highlights that businesses with fewer than 100 employees make up 98 percent of total Ontario businesses and two-thirds of private sector employment in Ontario. They contribute approximately 28 percent to the provincial GDP and created 87.7 percent of the new jobs nationally from 2005 to 2012.

Energy rates continue to be identified as a major obstacle in the report, with 33 percent of small businesses in Ontario saying that rising prices will have a large impact on their organization, causing them to delay or cancel planned investments. To help address the issue, the report urges the province to ensure affordable energy use by allowing more small businesses to participate in conservation and savings programs, expediting the elimination of the Debt Retirement charge, and providing more transparency around the Global Adjustment portion of bills.

Workforce issues are also identified in the report as having a major impact on small business: 39 percent of employers have been unable to fill a job in the last year and a half because they were unable to find someone with the appropriate qualifications -- up 11 percentage points since 2014. Among others, the report recommends implementing competitive apprenticeship ratios, ensuring small businesses have access to funding for training programs, and developing a single access point for all government-funded workforce, training, and employment services.

The report’s recommendations are the result of detailed consultations that 25 chambers of commerce and boards of trade held with hundreds of small business owners over the course of six months as part of the OCC’s Small Business Too Big To Ignore campaign.

“Small businesses in Ontario are being held back by a diverse set of challenges that need to be addressed by all three levels of government.” said Allan O’Dette, President and CEO of the OCC. “We are encouraging the provincial government to implement our report’s recommendations so that we can ensure that our economy will have sustained economic growth for many years to come.”

The OCC is urging the provincial government to work closely with the employer community to implement the report’s recommendations, which will feature prominently in the OCC’s work leading up to the 2018 provincial election. At that time, the advocacy organization will evaluate the political platforms of each party with a particular consideration as to how their campaign commitments align with the interests of small business owners in Ontario.

To view the report, visit http://tinyurl.com/SBW2016

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber secures national partner in push to improve resource development issues

Thu, 22 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, ON | Sept. 22, 2016—The Timmins Chamber of Commerce has secured a major national partner in its efforts to push for federal action on assisting businesses and Indigenous communities with resource development issues, including the duty to consult and the impact of climate change on winter roads.

At the Canadian Chamber of Commerce's (CCC) annual general meeting in Regina, Saskatchewan on Sept. 17-19, the Timmins Chamber successfully lobbied more than 330 Chamber representatives from across the country to support policies designed on behalf of local members.

This advocacy success means that the Timmins Chamber policies are now official positions of the CCC. The organization will now actively use these positions to push the federal government for change, supported by the full weight of the 200,000 businesses it represents.

“This is an important win for Timmins businesses and our regional economy,” said Chris Bender, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“The Canadian Chamber is the country’s largest and most influential business advocacy group, and now that both our policies have been adopted with a stunning 98% support on the debate floor in Regina, the organization will push for them when they speak to and lobby the federal government. This means that our made-in-Timmins priorities will be will be heard at the highest levels, and with the support of businesses from coast to coast.”

One of the two Timmins Chamber policies adopted by the CCC in Regina include a call for the federal government to clarify the roles of all parties involved in the duty to consult and accommodate Indigenous peoples on any projects that would affect their constitutional rights.

The lack of a clear framework on how businesses and Indigenous communities should approach this process creates uncertainty, and can lead to resource development projects being stalled or outright halted; this undermines everyone’s interests, according to Bender.

“The need for direction is crucial in order to address the many questions that arise in this important process, and to protect the countless socioeconomic benefits that can result,” said Bender.

The Canadian Chamber will now also be pushing the Timmins Chamber’s second successfully adopted policy, which urges the federal government to analyze and take action on the impact of climate change on seasonal or winter roads in remote or northern regions.

The consequences of this issue are already being felt in northern Ontario, where roads made of ice or snow provide temporary access to remote resource development projects and 30 Indigenous communities and through the winter months; they are of significant socioeconomic importance, allowing for goods to be moved at a cost two to three times lower than air transport, which is frequently the sole alternative. As well, the winter roads are often the only option for the transportation of heavier items such as vehicles, equipment, and building materials into these remote communities.

However, shorter and warmer winters resulting from climate change are drastically reducing the amount of time that the thousands of kilometers of winter roads can be used. This is already having an economic impact on affected communities and businesses, and as a result, the Timmins Chamber is urging federal solutions – possibly in the form of coordinating and funding all-season road networks where desired and appropriate, according to Bender.

“These issues are prevalent and pressing in our region, and we look forward to working with the Canadian Chamber, the federal government, and our partners throughout the North in the months and years ahead. There is no question that developing collaborative solutions as we’ve outlined and had adopted in Regina will prove to be of major benefit not just to our members, but to Indigenous communities and economies across the country.”

To view the full versions of the policy that will now be championed by the CCC, please visit the Chamber’s website at www.timminschamber.on.ca, or view them directly at http://tinyurl.com/DutyToConsult and http://tinyurl.com/WinterRoadNetworks

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber pushes Ontario Energy Board for cap-and-trade transparency

Wed, 07 Sep 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, ON | SEPTEMBER 7, 2016: In partnership with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, the Timmins Chamber is calling for the Ontario Energy Board to reverse its decision to fold cap-and-trade costs into the delivery line of customers’ natural gas bills, a move that would effectively hide those costs.

In a letter collaboratively issued to Rosemarie Leclair, Chair and CEO of the Ontario Energy Board (OEB), the provincial Chamber network called upon the arm’s-length organization to instead separate the cost of carbon emissions into their own line item on bills – an approach that’s in use in other Canadian cap-and-trade regimes, such as those in British Columbia and Quebec.

By instead choosing to blend those potential costs of the proposed provincial climate change plan into the generic delivery charge, consumers and businesses alike will be unable to determine what the real cost of emissions may be, said Chris Bender, president of the Timmins Chamber.

“If the provincial government plans to move ahead with a cap-and-trade regime that will have a definite financial impact on business, it must provide the ability to determine where it is working and where it is not,” said Bender.

“The inability to see the direct cost of their fossil fuel usage prevents businesses from being able to manage and reduce that usage. If the goal of the proposed cap-and-trade program is to encourage a reduction in emissions, it is incumbent on the OEB to be as transparent as possible about the associated costs.”

The letter issued to the OEB also raises questions about some of the other uncertainties raised by the decision to blend cap-and-trade costs into the delivery charge. In particular, it is unclear about how the province will continue to ensure the tax exempt status of certain fossil fuel users, such as farmers and First Nations communities, when the cap-and-trade cost is rolled into the delivery charges on the purchase of gasoline, diesel, propane, and natural gas.

In previous communications with the provincial government, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) and the Timmins Chamber were informed that the decision to determine the handling of cap-and-trade-related costs on consumer bills is the sole purview of the OEB. While its mandate is determined by the Ontario government, the OEB is an arm’s-length agency which is neutral and independent from the government.

“Our chambers believe that the transparency of the cap and trade program is an essential component of driving changes in customer behavior, which is fundamental to achieving the government’s emission reduction objectives,” said Allan O’Dette, CEO and president of the OCC, in the letter. “All natural gas customers need to see the cost of carbon allowances clearly identified on their bills to make informed decisions in respect of that price signal. We would therefore respectfully request that the OEB reverse this decision in the interest of successfully moving the cap and trade program forward.”

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Media contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber, Ontario employer groups call on province to "Keep Ontario Working"

Thu, 28 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, ON | JULY 28, 2016: As the provincial government issues an interim report of its long-awaited review of Ontario’s labour laws, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce joins various Ontario employer groups in expressing concern that some of the proposals could negatively impact businesses and employees alike.

The interim report for the Changing Workplaces Review, which seeks to modernize the Labour Relations Act and the Employment Standards Act through Ontario’s Ministry of Labour, was issued yesterday and features some potential policy options which could affect the relationship between employees and employers in every workplace in Ontario. The province must be diligent about judging these options on their merits, and be willing to reject those which fail to adequately recognize the needs of modern working environments, according to the Timmins Chamber.

“Timmins’ business community acknowledges that work has changed considerably in the decades since the last review of Ontario’s labour laws, and we’re equally adamant that employees must be protected,” said Kurt Bigeau, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“However, in an effort to solve some of the problems in the system, Ontario should be careful so as not to impose more problems: one-size-fits-all solutions, like many outlined in the interim report, could remove the flexibility that many of Ontario’s employers and employees require. We deserve evidence-based policy, and the Government of Ontario should conduct a cost-benefit analysis to assess the impact on jobs and the economy for any changes to labour and employment legislation that they accept from the Changing Workplaces Review.”

The Changing Workplaces Review has been tasked with examining key workplace trends, including the increase in non-standard working relationships such as temporary jobs, involuntary part-time work, and self-employment. The interim report is the most recent step in this process: the expert panel overseeing the review will present its final recommendations to the Ministry of Labour in early 2017, when the minister will take those recommendations under advisement as the government seeks to change Ontario’s labour laws.

The interim report identifies 50 issues and contains 225 options for the Ministry of Labour to consider as it seeks to guide Ontario’s workplaces. In particular, Ontario’s employer community is concerned about several policy options in the interim report that the government is considering, including:

Labour Certification Rules: The interim report offers as an option for the possibility of returning to a card-based system for union certification. However, employers argue that the requirement for a secret ballot vote must be maintained. Achieving certification simply by signing a union card diminishes employees’ rights and transparency.
Scheduling Provisions: The report also includes options that would create rigid, universal requirements and a one-size-fits-all approach to scheduling, which fail to recognize the diverse needs of Ontario’s workforce.
Sector Exemptions: The interim report includes options that would provide for changes to sectoral exemptions, requiring that sectors manage scheduling within guidelines set out by government. Doing so would ignore the unique, sector-specific needs when it comes to flexible scheduling and compensation.

To provide the business perspective within this process, Ontario’s leading employer and sector associations have created Keep Ontario Working, an initiative designed to motivate employers and employees alike to take a more active interest in the Changing Workplaces Review. The Timmins Chamber provides the perspective of its members through the Ontario Chamber, a key member of Keep Ontario Working.

“At a time when the cost of doing business in Ontario – and therefore the cost to consumers – is rising, government must consider the impact that these changes will have on Ontario’s competitiveness and workers,” said Bigeau. “Any changes to labour and employment legislation will have implications for Ontario’s economy, and that’s why it’s time for all of Ontarians, including our business community, to identify barriers to growth and recommend changes that will give businesses and workers alike room to grow.”

The Keep Ontario Working initiative is comprised of the province’s leading employer bodies, including:

Ontario’s Chamber and Board of Trade Network
Association of Canadian Search, Employment and Staffing Services
Canadian Franchise Association
Food & Beverage Ontario
National Association of Canadian Consulting Businesses
Ontario Forest Industries Association
Ontario Restaurant, Hotel & Motel Association
Restaurants Canada
Retail Council of Canada
Tourism Industry Association of Ontario

For more information on the Keep Ontario Working initiative, visit www.KeepOntarioWorking.ca

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Media contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber urges provincial government to make broadband a priority

Tue, 26 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, ON | JULY 26, 2016: In partnership with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC), the Timmins Chamber is calling for Premier Kathleen Wynne to commit dedicated provincial infrastructure funds to developing and expanding broadband internet access in remote and rural areas of the province.

In a letter issued to the Premier and several key cabinet ministers, the provincial Chamber network is calling upon the provincial government to recognize that access to high-speed internet is essential for Ontario businesses to compete in the 21^st-century global economy. With record investments being made by government in transit and transportation infrastructure, the province must also incorporate high-speed internet within that approach, according to the Timmins Chamber.

“Local businesses in Timmins are becoming increasingly dependent on internet access for their everyday business practices,” said Kurt Bigeau, president of the Timmins Chamber. “High-speed internet access has become a necessity for doing business in today’s economy and it is critical that all regions across Ontario have adequate access to this essential infrastructure.”

While the Timmins Chamber and the OCC acknowledge that the recent federal budget includes broadband investments to be made by the Government of Canada, internet access continues to be an issue in parts of Ontario – including the northeast.

The letter to the Premier identifies three key recommendations that the Ontario government should address in the coming term to ensure all communities in the province are able to compete in the global economy:

Develop a robust broadband investment strategy that acknowledges that broadband is an essential infrastructure investment, and creates space for continued private-sector investment.

Build partnerships across all levels of government in order to leverage funding and respond to local need. Recognizing that the private sector has driven investment in broadband infrastructure, the OCC recommends an intergovernmental funds matching formula that will continue to incentivize large private sector investments.

Benchmark Ontario’s internet speeds and access. In order to ensure Ontario is able to compete in a technology-driven global economy, we need to create broadband infrastructure that is equal with those of other globally-competitive jurisdictions.

“Just as businesses depend on roads and electricity, high-speed Internet is fundamental to advancing the province’s economic interests,” said Allan O’Dette, CEO & President of the OCC. “Committing funds to broadband infrastructure in rural and remote regions of the province will ensure that economic fragmentation is reduced in Ontario.”

With government services increasingly shifting to online platforms, universal access to high speed internet is becoming more important than ever. By working with the Timmins Chamber and the Ontario business community, government can develop broadband policy that is responsive to existing needs while not dissuading private sector investment.

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Media contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber announces 2016-2017 Board of Directors

Wed, 20 Jul 2016 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, ON | July 20, 2016—The results are in, and the members of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce have officially elected six individuals to represent them at the heart of the city’s largest business organization.

“I’m confident that the members of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce will be incredibly well-served by the unique talents, perspectives and passion of this year’s Board of Directors,” said Chris Bender, incoming 2016-2017 Chamber president, and campus manager, Northern College of Applied Arts and Technology.

“By translating our members’ needs into action, the board plays a key role in ensuring Timmins is a great place to do business, and I look forward to working with them to accomplish just that in the coming year.”

The new additions to the Board include Monique Koski, co-president of Millson Forestry Service; Bryan Neeley, sustainability manager of Goldcorp - Porcupine Gold Mines; and Melanie Verreault, president of Trimeda Consulting Inc.

Three directors who served on the Board last year were also elected to return: Eleanor Baccega, associate lawyer with Riopelle Group Professional Corp.; John Crescenzi, general manager of Hampton Inn by Hilton; and Val Venneri, general manager of James Toyota.

They will be officially sworn in during the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting, due to be held at the Days Inn Timmins on Wednesday, Sept. 28.

The following is the complete list of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce’s 2016-2017 Board of Directors:

President	Company
Christine Bender	Northern College
1^st Vice-President	Company
Jamie Clarke	Tisdale Plumbing and Heating Ltd.
Past President	Company
Kurt Bigeau	Northern Lights Financial Solutions Inc., an Advisor with Sun Life Financial
Treasurer	Company
Ginette Nakashoji	MNP LLP
Board Members	Company
Scott Alexander	Restore Physiotherapy Timmins
Daniel Ayotte	PAIB Insurance Inc.
Eleanor Baccega	Riopelle Group Professional Corporation
Nancy Cooper	Nancy E. Cooper Law Office
Stéphane Côté	Timmins Building Supplies
John Crescenzi	Hampton Inn by Hilton Timmins / Holiday Inn Express & Suites
Larry Gubbels	Wyatt Image Solutions Inc.
Frank Haasen	Haasen Farms
Monique Koski	Millson Forestry Service
Jason Laneville	CTV Television
Nancy Mageau	Royal Bank of Canada
Zachary Mayer	Kidd Operations
Jean-Pierre Nadon	Collège Boréal
Bryan Neeley	Goldcorp – Porcupine Gold Mines
Jason Perratt	Logikal Code
Val Venneri	James Toyota
Melanie Verreault	Trimeda Consulting Inc.

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Media contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber offers ideas to enhance airport’s economic impact

Tue, 21 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMT

The local economy could potentially benefit from changes to the Timmins Victor M. Power Airport, such as winter-specific parking areas and public transportation access, according to a new report by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

Presented to Timmins City Council on June 20 by Chris Bender, the Chair of the Chamber’s Municipal Affairs Committee, Business Climate Improvement: Report on the Timmins Victor M. Power Airport outlines 10 specific ways the City can enhance the many benefits that the facility already provides.

“Our recommendations focus on fostering a positive experience while encouraging repeated use of the facility, with the ultimate goal of strengthening the airport’s status as an overall economic driver for the community,” said Bender, who also serves as the Chamber’s first vice-president.

“Indeed, we’re looking to provide constructive suggestions to make the airport as competitive and business-friendly as possible. The Chamber was founded in 1949 in part to advocate and fundraise for the construction of a local airport, and it’s a topic that our members are still passionate about today.”

This approach has led to the report’s inclusion of such recommendations as the establishment of a long-term premium parking area at the airport, where premium pricing would provide access for block heaters in order to better serve travellers during the winter months. Other items in the report, such as keeping the public’s flight and weather information boards up to date and establishing an overflow area for short-term parking pick-up, focus on increasing the airport’s user-friendliness and reinforcing a positive impression of local facilities.

The report also features some measures designed to encourage greater use of the airport by general aviation users, which in turn enhance Timmins’ status as a destination. Related recommendations include encouraging airport administration to continue its ongoing cooperation in introducing a flight school to Timmins, and to promote the private-sector potential to institute an on-site, self-serve reserve of fuel for use by general aviation pilots.

The idea of expanding access to the airport for a broader range of users is also at the heart of the report’s push to develop a pilot project that would explore possible public transportation routes to and from the airport. This would be of particular use for residents who either lack a vehicle or who wish to avoid long-term parking on site; it would also provide more transportation options for employees of airport businesses, potentially providing greater staffing options and enabling more flexible hours of operation.

These recommendations were collected by the Chamber’s Municipal Affairs Committee, which reached out to the local business community and industry stakeholders over the course of the last year through surveys, one-on-one interviews, and roundtable discussions.

“As with all of the Chamber’s recommendations to council, the ideas put forward in this report attempt to strike a balance between fiscal responsibility and an improved business climate,” said Bender. “We feel that this report achieves that goal, and we look forward to working with City Council and airport administration to explore its implementation.”

This report is a follow-up to a similar report the Chamber issued in 2010 regarding potential improvements to the Victor M. Power Airport. In the intervening years, the Chamber has worked with City council and airport administrators to explore and implement some of its original recommendations, including the construction of additional parking areas and the use of flight information monitors. Others, such as a new business centre, were successfully implemented as a project led by Chamber members through the Business Takes the Lead program.

This also marks the third report on municipal issues that the Timmins Chamber of Commerce has created on behalf of its members in the last three years. The first, Business Climate Improvement: Report on Development, was presented to Timmins City Council in 2013, and focused on finding ways to make it easier for businesses to pursue development in the City of Timmins. Several of those recommendations have since been implemented, and the Chamber continues to monitor progress.

The second, Business Climate Improvement: Report on Municipal Procurement, was presented to City Council in 2014; its recommendations focused on providing local businesses more clarity and better opportunities to compete. After working with various councillors and administrators, the Chamber has noted various efforts by the municipality to improve its processes, such as providing more substantive information within staff reports regarding municipal RFPs.

The Chamber makes every effort to be as inclusive as possible of its members’ views so as best to represent their interests at all levels of government. Members who have business issues – municipal, provincial, or federal – that they would like to see addressed are encouraged to contact the Chamber.

To view the Business Climate Improvement: Report on the Timmins Victor M. Power Airport, visit http://tinyurl.com/BCI-TimminsAirport

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Iconic Kidd Mine monument gets anniversary facelift

Wed, 01 Jun 2016 00:00:00 GMT

For the past 50 years, the 10-ton boulder that sits outside of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce has been quietly telling the story of one of the world’s greatest mineral discoveries.

Discovered in 1963, the massive Kidd Creek orebody consisting of copper, zinc, lead and silver was a “game changer” for the Town of Timmins that was facing a critical decline in the local mining sector at the time. Extracted from that very same orebody, the boulder has since stood as a monument to the prosperity and partnerships generated by Kidd Creek.

In recognition of those five decades of economic and community contributions, representatives from the Timmins Chamber of Commerce and Kidd came together today – just as their predecessors did in 1966 – to unveil and rededicate the refurbished monument and plaque commemorating Kidd Operations’ 50th Anniversary of production.

“Timmins has been extremely fortunate to have had Kidd as a key pillar of our economy and our community,” said Kurt Bigeau, president of the Timmins Chamber. “There are few things that symbolize that longevity and strength quite like this monument, and we’re pleased to continue to work with Kidd to ensure it stands as a testament to its contributions.”

“Kidd is proud to be part of the business community for the past 50 years,” said David Yaschyshyn, Manager of Environment and Co-chair of the Kidd Operations’ 50th Anniversary Committee. “We felt it was important during our anniversary to restore this monument, to ensure that when the time capsule is opened in 2066 another 50 years from now, people will reflect back that Kidd Operations left a positive legacy.”

What people may not know is that in the base of the Kidd Ore Monument is a time capsule that was buried in 1966. This capsule serves as a record of the Texas Gulf find and contains many mementos from the '60s, including newspapers from the day and the April 16, 1964 edition of The Daily Press which publicly announced the Texas Gulf Sulfur Company base-metals find. A film reel and a radio tape accompany ore specimens, samples of various wood found in the district, coin of the realm and letters from representatives of the natural resource industry. Encased in steel, these historic keepsakes will remain in the base of the monument, untouched, until 2066.

The Kidd Ore Monument refurbishment was a joint project between Kidd Operations and the Timmins Chamber of Commerce. It was supported by local general contractor and Chamber of Commerce member SWM Contracting Inc. President Stefan Makuch, who donated time and materials to restore the concrete base of the monument and installed the restored original brass plaque from 1966 along with a new 50th Anniversary plaque.

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Carole Belanger
Communications & Community Relations Coordinator
Glencore Canada Corporation
T: (705) 267-8837 | M: (705) 365-6490
Carole.Belanger@glencore-ca.com

Goldcorp - Porcupine Gold Mines wins national resource champion award

Thu, 26 May 2016 00:00:00 GMT

For its tireless efforts to mine in a sustainable, transparent and accountable way, Goldcorp – Porcupine Gold Mines has been named one of Canada’s Resource Champions by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.

In honour of the Canadian Chamber Resource Recognition Day on May 26, Timmins Chamber Board 2^nd Vice-President Jamie Clarke presented the award to Goldcorp’s Mine General Manager Brendan Zuidema and Sustainability Manager Brian Neely during the Timmins Chamber’s board meeting on May 25.

As an initiative of the Canadian Chamber, this national award serves to recognize and highlight the outstanding efforts of organizations or individuals who have helped to support Canada’s world-class resource industry. In particular, this award is provided to an organization that has supported the development of innovative products or processes to reduce negative environmental impacts of resource extraction/harvesting, processing or transport.

The Timmins Chamber of Commerce chose to nominate Goldcorp – Porcupine Gold Mines for a Canada’s Resource Champions award specifically for its dedication to mitigating the impact of its Hollinger Project through such measures as public monitoring of noise, dust and vibration via live feeds, continuous response to community feedback, and regular updates to City Council and the public.

“We’re fortunate to have a company like Goldcorp operating in Timmins, given the hard work and dedication they’ve invested in the long-term health of our economy and their commitment to our community,” said Timmins Chamber President Kurt Bigeau.

“For these reasons, we were proud to be able to nominate them for this important award. It’s a way to help acknowledge the incredible work they do across their various local operations, while highlighting the ways they strengthen our economy.”

The establishment of the Canada’s Resource Champion awards is just one way in which the Canadian Chamber of Commerce has made supporting natural resource development and trade a key priority. Canada’s mining, energy, forest product and agricultural industries are essential to the country’s prosperity, helping to support job creation, exports and innovation throughout the country.

This also marks the second Canada’s Resource Champion award provided locally: Tembec’s Chief Forester Al Thorne was also recently named a recipient in the “individual” category for his tireless work in drawing attention to the value that all natural resource sectors bring to the Canadian economy.

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

With 700 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins business superheroes celebrated at 2016 Nova Awards

Fri, 20 May 2016 00:00:00 GMT

The superheroes of Timmins business were on full display at the McIntyre Arena on May 19 as a record-breaking 700 people came out to celebrate the 2016 Nova Business Excellence Awards.

Hosted by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce for its 14th consecutive year, the sold-out gala event saw 16 awards given to local firms and entrepreneurs across a range of categories.

These festivities were decked out with this year’s theme of the “superheroes of business”, in honour of the feats Timmins entrepreneurs perform every day, according to Timmins Chamber President Kurt Bigeau.

“They may not be leaping buildings with a single bound, but it’s clear from tonight’s award recipients that Timmins business owners and entrepreneurs are achieving amazing things,” said Bigeau.
“These are our own superheroes, as their business bravado and professional powers help to make Timmins a better place to live, work and play. We’re thrilled to be able to shine a spotlight on their talents.”

The ceremony was overseen by first-time emcee Dan Ayotte, a Chamber board member, and president of Paul Ayotte Insurance Brokers Ltd.

Ayotte helped to highlight the slate of more than 40 finalists that were honoured throughout the evening. This recognition helps to showcase the talent for which local businesses are known around the world, according to Bigeau.

"As always, the Nova Awards are an important reminder of the passion and tenacity at the heart of Timmins' business community. Tonight's finalists and recipients demonstrate that our business leaders are clearly in a class of their own – the League of Extraordinary Entrepreneurs, you could say.”

The recipients of the 2016 Nova Awards were carefully selected from 147 nominations – another record – by a committee of six independent community judges. As every year, the judges determine the award recipients based on the quality of the submissions. This is done without any input, influence or oversight from the Chamber Board of Directors or staff, thereby ensuring the validity of the process and the results.

A photo gallery of the 2016 Nova Awards, spanning the finalists’ reception to the awards ceremony and post-event celebration, will be available at the Chamber’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TimminsChamber

The recipients of the 2016 Nova Awards, and those who accepted on their behalf:

Northern College Service Excellence Award
Sponsored by Northern College

Coffee Warehouse
Not in attendance

RBC Marketing Award
Sponsored by RBC Royal Bank

Timmins Gracie Jiu-Jitsu and Muay Thai Academy

Kris Ratte, owner

NorthernTel Productivity, Innovation & Diversification Award
Sponsored by NorthernTel

Narrative Interiors

Chantal Magny, owner

De Beers Canada Aboriginal
Partnership Award
Sponsored by De Beers Canada

Moose Cree Group of Companies Limited Partnership

Derek Chum, president and Rick Poulin, CEO

City of Timmins Non-Profit
Organization Award
Sponsored by City of Timmins

Timmins & District Humane Society

Alicia Santamaria, manager

Collège Boréal Young Entrepreneur
(Under 40) Award
Sponsored by Collège Boréal

Dr. Karine Briand, owner

Family Eye Care

Caisse Populaire de Timmins New Business (Under 2 Years) Award
Sponsored by
Caisse Populaire de Timmins

Radical Gardens

Brianna Humphrey, owner

BMT Insurance & Financial Services
Business Contribution to the Community
(1-5 Employees) Award
Sponsored by BMT Insurance &
Financial Services

Logikal Code

Jason Perratt, owner

The Venture Centre Business Contribution to the Community (6-20 Employees) Award
Sponsored by the Venture Centre

Expertech Auto Inc.

Dan Bruneau, owner

Eastlink Business Contribution to the
Community (21+ Employees) Award
Sponsored by Eastlink

Timmins Building Supplies

Roman Romaniuk, Stéphane Coté and Pascal Morin, co-owners

FNETB Best Place to Work Award
Sponsored by Far Northeast Training Board

Allstate Insurance

Scott Jeanveau, director

TD Bank Group Business of the Year
(1-5 Employees) Award
Sponsored by TD Bank Group

NEO LASER TAG INC.

Dan Daoust, president

Scotiabank Business of the Year
(6-20 Employees) Award
Sponsored by Scotiabank

Dabrowski's Smoked Meats Ltd.

Marc Durepos, president

Northern Credit Union Business of the Year (21+ Employees) Award
Sponsored by Northern Credit Union Limited

Northern Industrial Services Group Inc.

Michael Perello, COO

National Bank Lifetime Achievement Award
Sponsored by National Bank

Porcupine Advance Printers

John Lake, sales

President’s Award
Sponsored by
the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Kidd Operations

Zach Mayer, manager, Mine Technical Services

For more information contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
policy@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-1900

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce
With more than 700 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Ontario must act to mitigate rising electricity costs: Chamber report

Wed, 08 Jul 2015 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, July 8, 2015—The impact of rising electricity costs on Ontario’s business community must be addressed by the provincial government, according to a new report from the Timmins Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) and 40 chambers of commerce and boards of trade.

With five recommendations that government and energy agencies should pursue to curb rising costs and keep businesses in the province, Empowering Ontario: Constraining Costs and Staying Competitive in the Electricity Market is the result of the most extensive consultations ever undertaken by the province-wide network. To produce the report, the OCC conducted a year-long research and consultative process with over 100 businesses, energy experts, and government agencies.

The report is a timely one, according to a new public opinion research from Leger, which cautions that soaring electricity prices have reached a crisis point for Ontario businesses and consumers. The research finds that 81 percent of Ontarians are concerned that rising electricity prices will impact the health of the Ontario economy and the same percentage fear that rising electricity prices will impact their disposable income.

These numbers rise to 91 percent in northern Ontario, where concern over the negative impact of rising electricity prices on the economy is the highest in the province. Northern Ontarians are also the most concerned about the impact on their disposable income, with 90.8% believing the price of power will be felt in their pocketbook.

“Our business members continue to identify the price of electricity as one of their greatest challenges, regardless of their size or sector,” said Christine Bender, Chair of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce’s Policy Committee.

“We would urge the government to consider the recommendations in this report to mitigate the cost of doing business in Ontario. Such measures would make the province more competitive while helping to improve business confidence and protecting jobs.”

Industrial electricity rates have increased by 16 percent since 2013, and will increase by a further 13 percent over the next five years. Northern industries are particularly sensitive to these cost challenges, given the additional energy costs associated with the regional climate and distance to markets, said Bender.

This has been particularly evident in Timmins, as rising energy rates were a factor in the relocation of Glencore’s Kidd Metallurgical Site to its Quebec facilities in 2010.

“We certainly applaud the Ontario government’s recognition of the unique conditions faced by businesses in our region, as it demonstrated when it made the $120-million Northern Industrial Electricity Program permanent earlier this year,” said Bender. “It was a welcome move to help the North’s large industrial firms by helping them to reduce electricity costs. However, more needs to be done to protect Ontario’s competitiveness, and this report stands as a good starting point.”

Among the report’s five recommendations is a push to improve the transparency of electricity pricing as well as factors contributing to increased system costs. By publishing average electricity rates and disclosing the costs of important investments, government will be held accountable for future decision-making. Currently, less than half of Ontarians understand the drivers that contribute to rising electricity bills.

The report also urges the government to consider moving away from a central procurement model, and look at a more competitive capacity market structure.

The report also identifies options that the government should not take or that have low potential for containing costs, such as importing hydroelectric power from Quebec to replace nuclear generation and cancelling feed-in tariff (FIT) contracts. Though common suggestions, the costs associated with such moves would render either approach unfeasible. An analysis of all the options considered can be found at www.occ.ca, or the extended version of the report.

“The Ontario Chamber Network of 60,000 businesses consistently hears that the price of electricity is undermining their members’ capacity to grow, hire new workers, and attract investment,” said Allan O’Dette, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. “The Government of Ontario has before them a number of decisions that must be made in order to bend the trajectory of soaring electricity costs.”

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

With 750 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Nominations open for 2015 Nova Awards

Thu, 11 Dec 2014 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, ON, December 11, 2014: Nominations are now being accepted for the Timmins Chamber of Commerce’s 2015 Nova Business Excellence Awards, the region’s biggest celebration of entrepreneurial achievement.

To be held at the McIntyre Arena on Thursday, April 16, the Nova Awards are a prestigious gala event recognizing the best of Timmins business across 14 categories.

More than 600 people attended in both 2013 and 2014, and this year’s event, now in its 13th year, promises to uphold its reputation as a spectacular way to celebrate business success, according to Al Thorne, President of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“The annual Nova Awards are a great way for the Chamber to celebrate the best and brightest entrepreneurs in the community and shine a light on those who make Timmins a great place to do business,” said Thorne.

“We’re looking to the public to let us know who they think is worthy by nominating their friend, boss, client, family member, of even themselves. The best can’t be celebrated unless they’re nominated.”

Nominees are now being accepted for the following awards:

Northern College Service Excellence Award
RBC Marketing Innovation Achievement Award
NorthernTel Productivity, Innovation & Diversification Award
De Beers Canada Aboriginal Partnership Award
City of Timmins Non-Profit Organization Award
Collège Boréal Young Professional Award (Under 35)
Caisse Populaire de Timmins New Business Award (Under 2 Years)
BMT Insurance & Financial Services Business Contribution to the Community Award (1-30 Employees)
Porcupine Gold Mines – Goldcorp Canada Ltd. Business Contribution to the Community Award (31+ Employees)
FNETB Best Place to Work Award
TD Bank Group Business of the Year Award (1-5 Employees)
Scotiabank Business of the Year Award (6-30 Employees)
Northern Credit Union Limited Business of the Year Award (31+ Employees)
National Bank Lifetime Business Achievement Award

This year’s Nova Awards will feature a “cirque” theme, which is fitting as the Nova Awards showcase business, group and individual success in the same way a “cirque” showcases talent, said Thorne.

“We’ve introduced a few new categories to better highlight business success, and these include the National Bank Lifetime Business Achievement Award and the NorthernTel Productivity, Innovation & Diversification Award. These categories will help us to clearly demonstrate the strength of Timmins businesses and their determination to succeed.”

Nomination packages will be made available online at http://tinyurl.com/NovaAwards2015. Nominations will be accepted until February 5, 2015, and the finalists will be notified on February 19.

Tickets for the Nova Awards will go on sale Feb. 20, 2014.

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce
With 750 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins businesses encouraged to share workforce challenges

Tue, 18 Nov 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, November 18, 2014—The Timmins Chamber of Commerce is encouraging local businesses to help address their workforce challenges by sharing them in a new survey from the Far Northeast Training Board (FNETB).

The EmployerOne survey is designed to collect information from employers in the Cochrane, Timiskaming and Sudbury districts on a range of labour issues. This includes turnover, hard-to-fill positions, recruitment difficulties, current and future skills shortages, as well as any issues in training and education practices.

The results of the survey will then be shared by the FNETB, a non-profit organization dedicated to working with community partners to identify and develop solutions to local labour market needs. It conducts the annual survey to provide valuable insights into the demand side of local labour markets so that businesses, governments, and educational institutions can properly prepare for changes and trends in the workforce.

“Workforce shortages continue to be one of the biggest problems faced by our members, but it’s difficult to pinpoint and advocate for specific solutions without hard data,” said Timmins Chamber President Al Thorne.

“This is why the Timmins Chamber has been such a strong advocate for reliable labour market information, and this is why we strongly recommend that businesses consider filling out the FNETB’s EmployerOne survey. Reliable data is the cornerstone of any good plan, and we applaud the FNETB for its ongoing work in seeking it out.”

The Timmins Chamber’s support for this initiative comes on the heels of some its recent successes at the federal level.

At the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s (CCC) annual general meeting in Charlottetown, PEI on Sept. 28-30, the Timmins Chamber successfully lobbied representatives of the country’s biggest business advocacy group to support its call for better federal collection of labour market information.

Held in Charlottetown, P.E.I., the event saw nearly 500 delegates -- representing more than 200,000 Canadian businesses -- debating policies put forward by Chambers from around the country to determine the CCC’s top priorities for the coming year. Thorne was on hand to successfully lobby for Timmins Chamber members’ interests to be included among the CCC’s agenda to the federal government in the coming years.

“We’re asking the federal government to strengthen its ability to collect that information, to identify where the skills gaps are at the local and regional levels, and to share that data with businesses, educators, and governments,” said Thorne. “The fact that Timmins’ policy saw such strong support is a sign of how badly this information is needed.”

Timmins businesses can respond to the EmployerOne survey by Dec. 31 at http://tinyurl.com/fnetb2014

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

With over 750 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber of Commerce staffer earns national recognition

Tue, 30 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, ON, September 29, 2014: The Timmins Chamber of Commerce’s Manager of Policy, Research and Communications Nick Stewart has won a national award for his work in advocating on behalf of Chamber members.

Stewart was selected among 450 Chambers of Commerce to be recognized as Canada’s 2014 Chamber Staff Person of the Year at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s Annual General Meeting in Charlottetown, P.E.I. on Friday, Sept. 26, 2014.

“I am incredibly honoured to have been selected from among my national peers for this prestigious award,” said Stewart.

“It is a true pleasure to see that our ongoing efforts to fight for our members’ interests at all levels of government is being noticed across the country.”

Competition for the award was fierce, but Stewart’s talent is worth celebrating, according to Shannon Churchill, Awards Committee Chair of the Chamber of Commerce Executives of Canada.

“The caliber of nominations was stellar this year, which made the decision difficult for the judging committee,” said Churchill. “It was wonderful to acknowledge the work of a policy person like Nick in the Chamber network.”

This award is designed to recognize outstanding performance of a staff member of a Chamber of Commerce or Board of Trade. Churchill cited Stewart’s dedicated efforts to serve as the voice of Timmins businesses at all levels of government on such issues as energy prices, labour challenges, and the Ring of Fire as just some of the reasons for his award.

“We are very fortunate at the Timmins Chamber to have Nick as part of our team and to see his efforts recognized nationally speaks to the quality of work done here,” said Al Thorne, Timmins Chamber President.

Having worked for the Chamber since February 2011, Stewart has devoted his efforts to helping the 750 members of the Timmins Chamber to identify issues of concern and working with volunteer-driven committees to refine and advocate those issues.

“I am pleased that our network of peers has recognized Nick’s strong policy-driven talent,” said Keitha Robson, Timmins Chamber Chief Administrative Officer. “The Chamber network has recognized the benefits that Nick’s efforts have generated, and our members are well served by his policy and advocacy skills. I am proud to call him my colleague.”

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 262-2018
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber of Commerce has plan to tackle youth unemployment in region

Fri, 26 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, ON, September 24, 2014: The Timmins Chamber of Commerce is partnering with Northern College, Ryerson University and the Ontario Chamber of Commerce to help turn the tide on youth unemployment and address the skills gap.

The Timmins Chamber is announcing Magnet, a leading-edge networking platform that will help employers in Timmins connect with recent graduates and qualified candidates.

The Magnet network has one goal: to ensure that individuals within its network are matched to promising job opportunities and that organizations connect to qualified candidates.

With Magnet, businesses can create profiles and search qualified talent within Timmins and beyond. This effective, accurate, and efficient way works to match these candidates’ qualifications and interests with employers’ skills requirements.

“We’re really pleased with this new way of connecting youth with employers,” said Timmins Chamber President Al Thorne. “One of the biggest obstacles our members have been facing is finding skilled employees to fill vacancies and plan for the future, and the Magnet network is an important new tool to help to address this issue.”

Magnet is built upon revolutionary networking technology developed through Ryerson University’s Digital Media Zone.

“Turning the tide on unemployment and addressing the skills gap in our labour markets takes a collaborative effort,” said Sheldon Levy, President and Vice Chancellor of Ryerson University. “That’s why it’s encouraging to see the Timmins Chamber Commerce play a leadership role in bringing this innovative network to this community.”

The Magnet network currently includes 18 universities and colleges across Ontario, representing over 500,000 students and graduates, the network of chambers of commerce and boards of trade throughout Ontario, representing 60,000 employers and two million jobs, and over 30 labour- and opportunity-based organizations.

“Ontario’s employers are telling us that they’re finding it difficult to connect with workers that have the skills they need," said Allan O’Dette, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. "Magnet is not only going to address this barrier by connecting businesses with the right candidates, but also by creating youth employment opportunities across the province—it’s a win-win scenario.”

“Not only does this help to address one of the largest issues faced by employers province-wide, it will help attract and retain skilled youth in the North,” added Thorne.

The Magnet network officially launches in early October.

To learn more, visit magnet.today

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Contact:
Courtney Laforest
Research and Communications Specialist
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
marketing@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber urges City purchasing to better support local business

Tue, 23 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, ON, Sept. 23, 2014—The City of Timmins should change its purchasing processes to give local businesses more clarity and better opportunities to compete, according to a new report by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

Presented to Timmins City Council on Sept. 22 by Chamber President Al Thorne, Business Climate Improvement: Report on Municipal Procurement outlines 14 specific ways the City can improve how it acquires goods and services.

“Fundamentally, Timmins businesses are just looking for better ways to participate in the City’s purchasing process,” said Thorne.

“We believe there are fair, cost-effective measures that the City can put in place that would enhance its ability to support local businesses, which would in turn help to boost Timmins’ economy. Anything that helps to keep public money in Timmins is something that benefits everyone, though our businesses fully understand that local support depends on providing good, reliable service at a competitive price.”

The report’s recommendations revolve around four main themes: improving the pre-qualification process, providing more information for bidders, improving clarity in the City’s Requests for Proposals (RFPs), and providing businesses with better access to municipal purchasing opportunities.

Some represent simple and easily implemented solutions, such as enhancing the City website to better assist interested bidders in finding the appropriate staff to answer questions. Other solutions will require longer-term collaboration, such as creating a working group of City and business representatives to conduct a full review of the municipality’s pre-qualification process.

These recommendations emerged from the efforts of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce’s Municipal Affairs Committee, which began to undertake the development of the report in 2013 after members identified municipal procurement as a priority. The recommendations were generated over the course of several months following numerous one-on-one interviews, surveys and roundtable discussions with Timmins businesses.

Throughout this process of consultation, the Committee was careful to respect the implications that Ontario’s Municipal Act and the federal Competition Act have for municipal procurement. As recommendations were developed, it was understood that the Acts impose clear restrictions on municipalities’ ability to mandate local preferences for purchasing; it was equally understood that these measures also protect taxpayers from potentially predatory practices, said Thorne.

As such, the report avoids local content requirements in favor of solutions that would make it easier for Timmins businesses to learn about and bid for municipal procurement contracts. This includes a recommendation that the City avoid naming specific manufacturers in its RFPs unless necessary for repair purposes.

Other similar suggestions reflect those that have previously been posed by City Council, such as examining alternative credit options for large projects, such as a performance bond, to allow more small and medium-sized businesses to bid.

“It was crucial that the report strikes a strong balance between fiscal responsibility and an improved business climate,” said Thorne. “In the end, we’re confident that these solutions stand as a careful, measured response that achieves just that. We look forward to working with the City in the coming months to monitor the progress being made on these important recommendations.”

This marks the second such report that the Timmins Chamber of Commerce has created in the last two years. The first, Business Climate Improvement: Report on Development, was presented to Timmins City Council in February 2013, and focused on finding ways to make it easier for businesses to undertake development in the City of Timmins. Several of those recommendations have since been implemented, and the Chamber continues to monitor progress, said Thorne.

The Chamber makes every effort to be as inclusive as possible of its members’ views so as best to represent their interests at all levels of government. Members who have business issues – municipal, provincial, or federal – that they would like to see addressed are encouraged to contact the Chamber.

To view the report, visit http://tinyurl.com/BCI-Purchasing

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce
With over 750 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Chamber celebrates 65 years of success at Annual General Meeting

Thu, 18 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, ON, September 18, 2014—The Timmins Chamber of Commerce highlighted a full year’s worth of successes for the business community during the organization’s 65^th Annual General Meeting and President’s Dinner on Sept. 17.

Hosted at the Days Inn Timmins, the event allowed more than 140 attendees to hear from immediate past president Phil Barton about the Chamber’s achievements through 2013-2014 in service of its nearly 800 members.

This included hosting more than 50 events in order to provide education and networking sessions to local businesses, while offering more than 70 discounts to help members with their bottom line. This year also saw the Timmins Chamber achieve many policy and advocacy victories for members on such issues as the Ring of Fire, federal funding for mining infrastructure, and energy pricing, due in part to the Chamber’s provincial and federal partnerships.

These successes also included the members’ election of a strong Board of Directors for 2014-2015, which joined Chamber President Al Thorne of Tembec in being officially sworn in by Timmins Mayor Tom Laughren as part of the evening’s proceedings. The theme of success continued as attendees heard first-hand from keynote speaker Robert Gignac, the author of Canadian best-seller Rich is a State of Mind, about personal and financial development.

The annual general meeting also served to recognize individuals and businesses that have made significant contributions to the Chamber and the business community.

This year’s Service Awards were given to Wayne Bozzer of Timmins Family Y.M.C.A, and Bill McMillan of Porcupine Gold Mines – Goldcorp Canada Ltd., in recognition of their respective six years of dedicated service to the Chamber’s board of directors -- the maximum amount of time someone can consecutively serve.

“This is obviously a major investment of time and energy, and Bill and Wayne have been steadfast throughout these many years in providing plenty of both to help advance the interests of businesses throughout our region,” said Barton.

The Chamber also named Wayne Bozzer the recipient of this year’s Alex Klimack Award, which serves to recognize an outstanding volunteer for their hard work and commitment not only to the Chamber but the community as a whole. Bozzer dedicated countless hours in 2013-2014 to supporting the Chamber, its events, and its members, while his commitment to recreation helped to make it easier for employers to attract staff and bring more people to Timmins.

“Wayne has long been an extremely active force for community improvement, rightfully giving him a reputation as a strong advocate for improving Timmins’ quality of life,” said Barton. “In his time with the Chamber, he has found unique and effective ways to combine his passion for recreation with his passion for business.”

The Chamber also offered a rare Honourary Lifetime Membership to Mayor Tom Laughren in recognition of his desire to make Timmins the best possible place to live, work, and play.

Mayor Laughren served as Chamber president in 2005-2006 before serving eight years as mayor of Timmins, demonstrating his passion for local businesses and the community as he spearheaded countless projects. His efforts included facilitating monthly meetings with the Chamber president to discuss member concerns, and forming the Northern Mayors Task Force in 2010.

“Tom has been one of the city’s most visible and passionate advocates for so long that any attempt to describe his dedication will surely be common knowledge,” said Barton. “He has endlessly demonstrated his talent for advancing the interests of the City while providing business the best possible opportunities to succeed.”

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For more information, please contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
policy@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-1900

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Chamber work outlined in annual report

Thu, 18 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMT

From membership details to updates on its members' advocacy projects, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce's 2013-2014 annual report outlines the work done on its members' behalf throughout the previous year.

First released at the Chamber's 65th Annual General Meeting and President's Dinner on Sept. 17, the twelve-page report includes a summary of the Chamber's provincial and national projects. These include pushing the province to do proper research before considering the sale of Crown corporations, such as the ONTC and Ontera; pushing the province to lower energy rates; as well as pushing for federal infrastructure funding for mining projects of major economic significance.

The report also includes updates on the projects the Chamber's Municipal Affairs, Timmins Young Professionals, and Member Services and Events Committees have been working on in order bring the best value to membership and make doing business in Timmins better.

Click here to download the full report.

Timmins Chamber of Commerce to Government: Get Employer-Driven Training Programs Right

Wed, 10 Sep 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, ON - September 9, 2014: The Government of Ontario must ensure that upcoming changes to the province’s training and employment programs reflect the needs of employers, according to a new report released by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and Essential Skills Ontario.

The call comes as the government works to reinvent the way that many training and employment programs are delivered in the province by giving employers a more direct role in the type of training their workers receive. The bulk of these programs will be supported through the new Canada-Ontario Job Grant, which will cover two-thirds of the cost of training a current or prospective worker, with government chipping in up to $10,000.

“By encouraging businesses to invest more in their employees, these new employer-driven programs could be an important step toward improving Ontario’s economic competitiveness,” says Allan O’Dette, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. “But they’ll only succeed if they are designed with the needs of employers in mind.”

The report, Moving Forward Together, was assembled with input from members of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce and makes the case that programs should be easy to access for employers.

“We recognize that measures are required to maintain the integrity of these programs and minimize fraud,” adds O’Dette. “But government needs to be conscious that onerous red tape and paperwork will only deter employers from participating in the program.”

It also calls on government to foster collaboration among companies in the design of training programs to minimize the risk of poaching and to lower the costs associated with training. This will require government to develop a close relationship with sector associations that are already providing workforce training.

In addition, the report drives home the importance of increasing engagement between government and the business community as most employers are unaware of current training and employment provisions available to them.

“Staffing and training concerns have long stood as our members’ biggest obstacles for growth, so we’ve been very pleased to help them work with our partners across the province to develop potential solutions,” said Phil Barton, 2013-2014 President of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce. “In the end, we strongly encourage the province to view the introduction of the Ontario-Canada Job Grant as an opportunity to partner with businesses to build their employees’ skills.”

Moving Forward Together: An Employer Perspective on the Design of Skills Training Programs in Ontario is based on extensive consultations with employers and training providers from across the province. Read the full report at http://tinyurl.com/MovingForwardReport

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce
With over 750 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Media contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber has mixed reaction to reintroduced 2014 provincial budget

Mon, 14 Jul 2014 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, July 14, 2014—Though Timmins businesses may benefit from the Ontario Government’s reintroduced 2014 budget, its lack of long-term solutions for energy and Northern infrastructure is a concern, according to the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

The July 14 presentation of the 2014 provincial budget by Finance Minister Charles Sousa reintroduced that which the Liberal government initially proposed on May 1, and includes several items relevant to the Timmins area, such as:

$1 billion in potential infrastructure investment in the Ring of Fire;
$13.9 billion for transportation infrastructure for areas outside the GTHA, including funding for bus and rail infrastructure for the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission;
More financial incentives for small businesses to participate in conservation initiatives;
Lowering the threshold for large industrial consumers to participate in special energy-cost-saving programs;
More than $130 billion in infrastructure spending over 10 years, and
A new $25-million Aboriginal Economic Development Fund.

“Although we have some concerns about this budget, we have to acknowledge that it contains some items of significant interest for Timmins businesses,” said Phil Barton, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“There are some obvious big-ticket items relating to enhancing mining in the North, which is of course badly needed, but there are a number of other significant additions, such as the enhancement of bus and rail for the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission.”

The most obvious appeal for Northern Ontario is the proposed $1 billion in funding for infrastructure in the Ring of Fire, located in northwestern Ontario’s James Bay Lowlands. Although the province-wide benefits of this project will ripple into Timmins, the lack of infrastructure stands as a major barrier to its progress.

While the federal government has yet to make its own commitments, the Timmins Chamber holds that all levels of government must partner with the private sector and area First Nations communities to make this project a reality.

The budget also offers some measures to offset energy rates for small and large businesses alike. The expansion of the Industrial Conservation Initiative program will allow more large industrial firms to participate and save upwards of 20 percent on their energy bill; conversely, small businesses will be able to save through the province’s streamlining and expansion of its saveONenergy program.

However, these advantages are simply short-term solutions for a much longer-term problem, said Barton, as the cost of energy is still projected to rise sharply in the coming years -- and the 2014 budget fails to address that issue.

The budget also fails to address key provincial issues that have stood as a major concern for the Timmins Chamber in recent years, such as the failure to reinstate the much-needed Connecting Link program. This program helped to fund up to 90% of construction and maintenance of provincial highways that run through municipalities, and its cancellation in 2013 has left Timmins struggling to maintain this crucial infrastructure.

As well, the budget did not indicate any intention to halt the ongoing sale of the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission’s (ONTC) telecommunications arm, Ontera, to Bell Aliant. The lack of details surrounding the sale are disconcerting, said Barton, as a similarly rushed effort to divest the ONTC as a whole was later proven by the Ontario Auditor General to cost Ontario taxpayers in excess of $800 million.

“There is some good news in the budget, but we have some strong concerns about what it specifically fails to address,” said Barton. “We sincerely hope that when it comes to providing improvement on topics such as energy pricing, the province will work with businesses and the affected communities on finding sustainable and competitive solutions.”

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce also had some concerns for the 2014 provincial budget, referring to it as a “two-steps back” budget for businesses.

In particular, the organization held out strong criticism for the budget’s proposal to increase spending, the deficit, and overall debt. Specifically, the budget would increase government spending from $127 billion to $130 billion, growing the deficit from $11.3 billion to $12.5 billion over the same period. The overall debt will grow to $289.3 billion by the end of 2014-2015, and $317.2 billion by the end of 2016-2017. This increases the province’s debt-to-GDP ratio to an “alarming” 40.3 percent by 2014-2015.

-30-

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce
With 800 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber to host provincial candidates debate

Thu, 29 May 2014 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, May 29, 2014 –With the provincial election looming, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is offering the public a chance to learn more about their choices at a Meet the Candidates event on Wednesday, June 4.

To be held at O’Gorman High School at 6:30 p.m. - 8 p.m., this free event will allow the public to submit questions for the candidates for the Timmins-James Bay riding. Questions pre-submitted by Chamber members will also be considered.
Participating in the event are candidates Gilles Bisson (Ontario New Democratic Party), Steve Black (Ontario Progressive Conservative Party) and Sylvie Fontaine (Ontario Liberal Party).

“As a service being offered to the public by the business members of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce, this event is a timely opportunity to hear from the riding’s future political representatives on matters and issues that concern residents,” said Chamber President Phil Barton. “We are an apolitical organization, but we believe that everyone is well served by learning about all candidates and their platforms.”

The format of the event will allow each candidate one minute to answer each question from moderator Cheryl St-Amour, who will curate the written questions submitted by attendees.

The public can submit questions in advance to policy@timminschamber.on.ca.

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce
With 800 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber celebrates business at 2014 Nova Awards

Fri, 23 May 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, ON—More than 600 people came out to celebrate the best of Timmins business at the 2014 Nova Business Excellence Awards, held May 22 at the McIntyre Arena.

Now in its 12th consecutive year, the sold-out gala event saw 15 awards handed out across a range of categories. Hosted by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce, the event was emceed once again by the Chamber’s immediate Past President Art Pultz, of Rogers Communications Inc.

The slate of outstanding entrepreneurs honoured throughout the evening is a testament to Timmins’ world-leading talent, said Timmins Chamber President Phil Barton.

“Every year, the Nova Awards serve as a reminder of the unique talent and passion of Timmins’ business community,” said Barton.
“Tonight is another great example, as all our nominees have a great story to tell, and their achievements are truly impressive. We’re extremely proud to recognize their hard work, and what they do to make Timmins a better place.”

In this spirit of celebration, the evening gala transformed the McIntyre Arena with a “Garden Party” theme to reflect the ability of Timmins businesses to grow and flourish. Attendees set foot on real grass laid throughout the entrance, while a backyard pagoda helped to build the theme.

The recipients of the 2014 Nova Awards were carefully selected from more than 95 nominations by a committee of six independent community judges. As every year, the judges determine the award recipients without any input, influence or oversight from the Chamber Board of Directors or staff, thereby ensuring the validity of the process and the results.

“This event has become an important tradition not only for our business community, but the region at large, as the desire to honour Timmins’ entrepreneurs is seemingly boundless,” said Barton. “Given their countless contributions to making this a great place to work, live and play, we’re always thrilled to see such strong support from the growing number of attendees coming out to honour them.”

To view a gallery of photographs from the 2014 Nova Awards, spanning the finalists’ reception to the awards ceremony to the post-event celebration, visit the Chamber’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TimminsChamber

Business Contribution to Community (1-30 Employees) Award Sponsored by BMT Insurance & Financial Services	Dubé Designs
Porcupine Gold Mines - Goldcorp Canada Ltd. Business Contribution to Community (31+ Employees) Award Sponsored by Porcupine Gold Mines – Goldcorp Canada Inc.	Davidson de Laplante Insurance
Northern College Service Excellence Award Sponsored by Northern College	Guy's Custom Cabinets
Caisse Populaire de Timmins New Business (Under 2 Years) Award Sponsored by Caisse Populaire de Timmins	Holiday Inn Express & Suites Timmins
RBC Marketing Innovation Achievement Award Sponsored by RBC Royal Bank	Rainville Health
Collège Boréal Young Entrepreneur (Under 30) Award Sponsored by Collège Boréal	Paul Brunet and Alain Lefebvre, Great White North Technology Consulting Inc.
NorFab Metal and Machine Best Place to Work Award Sponsored by Norfab Metal and Machine	Panels and Pipes Inc.
TD Bank Group Business of the Year (1-5 Employees) Award Sponsored by TD Bank Group	Quantum Realty Services
Scotiabank Business of the Year (6-49 Employees) Award Sponsored by Scotiabank	Porcupine Canvas
Northern Credit Union Limited Business of the Year (50+ Employees) Award Sponsored by Northern Credit Union Limited	Premier Recycling Ltd.
City of Timmins Non-Profit Organization Award Sponsored by City of Timmins	Timmins Native Friendship Centre
Environmental Excellence Award Sponsored by Union Gas	Premier Recycling Ltd.
NorthernTel Technology Award Sponsored by NorthernTel	Gorf Manufacturing/Contracting Ltd.
De Beers Canada Aboriginal Partnership Award Sponsored by De Beers Canada	CreeWest GP Inc.
President's Award Sponsored by Timmins Chamber of Commerce	BMT Insurance & Financial Services

For more information contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
policy@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-1900

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce
With more than 800 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Provincial leaders set to debate Northern issues

Wed, 21 May 2014 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, May 21, 2014 – Northern Ontario residents will hear first-hand about the provincial issues that matter to them at the Northern Leaders’ Debate, to be held on Monday, May 26 at the Valhalla Inn in Thunder Bay.

The event is sponsored by the Northern Policy Institute, and organized in conjunction with the Northwestern Ontario Municipal Association (NOMA), Federation of Northern Ontario Municipalities (FONOM), Northwestern Ontario Associated Chambers of Commerce (NOACC) and the Northeastern Ontario Chambers of Commerce.

Kathleen Wynne, Leader of the Ontario Liberal Party and Andrea Horwath, Leader of the New Democratic Party of Ontario, have confirmed their attendance at the debate. The panel of members of the NOMA, FONOM, NOACC and the Northeastern Ontario Chambers of Commerce -- represented by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce -- will address the two leaders with questions on provincial policy affecting northern Ontario.

Due to scheduling issues, Tim Hudak, leader of the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario is unable to attend.

“The issues facing northeastern Ontario are significant, which makes this election such a crucial one for our region,” said Keitha Robson, CAO of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce. “This is why the Timmins Chamber is incredibly pleased to represent the northeastern business community at the Northern Leaders debate, where we expect a lively but important discussion on topics that matter most to the North.”

The one-hour debate will begin at 12:15 p.m., and can be viewed via webcast at www.netnewsledger.com Those looking to attend in person must register in advance at a cost of $45 at http://www.noma.on.ca/article/northern-leaders-debate-1234.asp.

ADDITIONAL QUOTES:
David Canfield, NOMA President: “The future of Ontario is in northern Ontario. We are looking forward to having an opportunity to learn what each party will deliver to assist our region in growth and prosperity.”

Al Spacek, FONOM President: “This debate will provide an opportunity to bring forward what really matters in northern communities - from northerners themselves.”

Nathan Lawrence, NOACC President: “The opportunity for growth in Northern Ontario is immense. We look forward to hearing what policies each leader would put in place to ensure the full potential is realized.”

Contact:
Iain Angus, NOMA
(807) 474-0926
Al Spacek, President, FONOM
(705) 335-0001

Nathan Lawrence, President, NOAC
(807) 624-2626

Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber rallies support to push province for better decision-making

Mon, 05 May 2014 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, May 5, 2014—The Timmins Chamber of Commerce has secured a major partner in its goal to ask the government to do its homework when making decisions about issues that affect business, especially with regards to forestry and the sell-off of Crown corporations.

Timmins Chamber President Phil Barton successfully lobbied representatives of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, the province's biggest business advocacy group, to adopt its policies and push the province on these issues following debate at its annual general meeting in Sault Ste. Marie on May 2-4.

Given the massive, negative impact that specific government regulations have had on Timmins in recent years, the Timmins Chamber put forward two policies in Sault Ste. Marie to help protect against such problems. They proposed that the government be required to research the full social and economic impact of the Endangered Species Act, and the sell-off of any Crown corporations, such as the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission (ONTC).

"Government must begin to take the politics out of its policies, and instead look at the true cost of making decisions long before committing to them,” said Timmins Chamber President Phil Barton.

“Despite its own stated priorities, the Endangered Species Act and its related conservation plans still fail to consider the devastating effect they have on the people and communities of Ontario. The dangers of this approach were also obvious when Ontario's Auditor General discovered that the ONTC sell-off would cost nearly $1 billion -- and that came to light only two years after its initial announcement. Our policies simply ask for due diligence."

These recommendations were voted on and adopted by the 100+ delegates -- representing more than 60,000 Ontario businesses -- who were on hand at the event to debate policies put forward by Chambers from around Ontario to determine the OCC’s top priorities for the coming year.

Following the Timmins Chamber's success in Sault Ste. Marie, the OCC will now use its ideas as part of its efforts to enact change in the coming months and years.

Designed to protect Timmins' economy and the ability of its businesses to succeed, the two Timmins Chamber policies were assembled with input from its members as well as its Government Regulation and Policy Committee. These policies were also co-sponsored at the event by the Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce and the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce, as a sign of the broader impact that they will have on Northern Ontario.

“Given the ongoing effect of the Endangered Species Act on forestry access, and the province's open desire to consider selling more Crown corporations, our members will definitely benefit from having the Ontario Chamber of Commerce adopt these policies," said Barton. "We developed strong partnerships with our fellow Northern chambers to push the issue this far, and now that we have the full support of the provincial Chamber network, we look forward to working with our regional and provincial partners and governments to protect our businesses, our community, and our economy.”

To view the full versions of the policy that will now be championed by the OCC, please visit the Chamber’s website at www.timminschamber.on.ca

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber has mixed reaction to 2014 provincial budget

Fri, 02 May 2014 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, May 1, 2014—Though Timmins businesses may benefit from the 2014 provincial budget, its lack of long-term solutions for energy and infrastructure is a concern, according to the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

The May 1 presentation of the 2014 provincial budget by Finance Minister Charles Sousa proposed several items relevant to the Timmins area, including:

$1 billion in potential infrastructure investment in the Ring of Fire, contingent on matching federal funds;
$13.9 billion for transportation infrastructure for areas outside the GTHA, including funding for bus and rail infrastructure for the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission;
More financial incentives for small businesses to participate in conservation initiatives;
Lowering the threshold for large industrial consumers to participate in special energy-cost-saving programs;
More than $130 billion in infrastructure spending over 10 years, and
A new $25-million Aboriginal Economic Development Fund.

“Although we fully appreciate the political volatility surrounding this budget, we have to acknowledge that it contains some items of significant interest for Timmins businesses,” said Phil Barton, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“There are some obvious big-ticket items relating to enhancing mining in the North, which is of course badly needed, but there are a number of other significant additions, such as the enhancement of bus and rail for the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission.”

The most obvious appeal for Northern Ontario is the proposed $1 billion in funding for infrastructure in the Ring of Fire, located in northwestern Ontario’s James Bay Lowlands. Although the province-wide benefits of this project will ripple into Timmins, the lack of infrastructure stands as a major barrier to its progress.

While the funding remains contingent on matching funds from the federal government, the Timmins Chamber holds that all levels of government must partner with the private sector and area First Nations communities to make this project a reality.

The budget also offers some measures to offset energy rates for small and large businesses alike. The expansion of the Industrial Conservation Initiative program will allow more large industrial firms to participate and save upwards of 20 percent on their energy bill; conversely, small businesses will be able to save through the province’s streamlining and expansion of its saveONenergy program.

However, these advantages are simply short-term solutions for a much longer-term problem, said Barton, as the cost of energy is still projected to rise sharply in the coming years -- and the 2014 budget fails to address that issue.

The budget also fails to address key provincial issues that have stood as a major concern for the Timmins Chamber in recent years, such as the failure to reinstate the much-needed Connecting Link program. This program helped to fund up to 90% of construction and maintenance of provincial highways that run through municipalities, and its cancellation in 2013 has left Timmins struggling to maintain this crucial infrastructure.

As well, the budget did not indicate any intention to halt the ongoing sale of the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission’s (ONTC) telecommunications arm, Ontera, to Bell Aliant. The lack of details surrounding the sale are disconcerting, said Barton, as a similarly rushed effort to divest the ONTC as a whole was later proven by the Ontario Auditor General to cost Ontario taxpayers in excess of $800 million.

“There is some good news in the budget, but we have some strong concerns about what it specifically fails to address,” said Barton. “We sincerely hope that when it comes to providing improvement on topics such as energy pricing, the province will work with businesses and the affected communities on finding sustainable and competitive solutions.”

The Ontario Chamber of Commerce also had some concerns for the 2014 provincial budget, referring to it as a “two-steps back” budget for businesses.

In particular, the organization held out strong criticism for the budget’s proposal to increase spending, the deficit, and overall debt. Specifically, the budget would increase government spending from $127 billion to $130 billion, growing the deficit from $11.3 billion to $12.5 billion over the same period. The overall debt will grow to $289.3 billion by the end of 2014-2015, and $317.2 billion by the end of 2016-2017. This increases the province’s debt-to-GDP ratio to an “alarming” 40.3 percent by 2014-2015.

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

With 800 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the "Voice of Business in Timmins" since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Finalists announced for 2014 Nova Awards

Thu, 03 Apr 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, ON—Nearly 40 local businesses and organizations have been named as finalists for the Timmins Chamber of Commerce’s 2014 Nova Business Excellence Awards, the region’s biggest celebration of entrepreneurial achievement.

A panel of six independent community judges narrowed more than 100 nominations down to three finalists in 14 categories, each representing some of the best and brightest of Timmins’ business community. They will be celebrated at the Nova Awards’ gala evening, to be held at the McIntyre Arena on May 22.

Now in its 12th year, the awards gala recognizes the best of Timmins business. This history of local excellence continues to be reflected in the caliber of this year’s nominees, according to Phil Barton, President of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“Timmins is home to some incredibly innovative businesses and passionate entrepreneurs, which shines through the impressive nominations that we received,” said Barton.

“It says a great deal about the community to see this year’s finalists include so many fantastic companies from so many different sectors, and we look forward to celebrating their achievements on May 22.”

This year’s Nova Awards will feature a “garden party” theme, which recognizes not only the season but also how local businesses help to grow Timmins’ economy.

“The Nova Awards are really about recognizing companies that make Timmins a uniquely great place to succeed,” said Barton. “Our entrepreneurs are also our neighbors, and it’s crucial to note that they strengthen our economy while funding college scholarships, sponsoring sports teams, and providing jobs. We’re happy to help honour them, and that so many in the community are willing to join us in this celebration.”

Tickets to the gala event are $90 plus HST, or $75 plus HST for Chamber members; tables of 10 are available. Ticket reservations can be made via phone at (705) 360-1900, via email at info@timminschamber.on.ca, or by visiting the Chamber website at www.timminschamber.on.ca

A photo gallery of finalists receiving their notifications is available at http://tinyurl.com/Nova2014Finalists

The finalists in each category are:

Business Contribution to the Community (1-30 Employees) Dubé Designs Lemongrass Custom Floral & Home Décor N. Lacroix Plumbing & Heating		Porcupine Gold Mines - Goldcorp Canada Ltd. Business Contribution to the Community (31+ Employees) Davidson de Laplante Insurance Brokers Ltd. Giant Tiger Kidd Operations
Service Excellence Guy’s Custom Cabinets Holiday Inn Express & Suites Timmins Paul Ayotte Insurance Brokers Ltd.		Caisse Populaire de Timmins (Under 2 Years) Holiday Inn Express & Suites Timmins Narrative Interiors The Movement Studio
RBC Marketing Innovation Achievement Boivin Law Office Dubé Designs Rainville Health		College Boréal Young Entrepreneur (Under 30) Kimberly Sulatycky, Bliss Beauty Bar Jessica Trudel, Cursor Communications Paul Brunet and Alain Lefebvre, Great White North Technology Consulting Inc.
NorFab Metal and Machine Best Place to Work HGS Canada Inc. (Timmins) Kidd Operations Panels and Pipes Inc.		TD Bank Group Business of the Year (1-5 Employees) Discover Fitness with Kate Durst Inc. Neo Laser Tag Inc. Quantum Realty Services Ltd.
Scotiabank Business of the Year (6-49 Employees) Guy’s Custom Cabinets Porcupine Canvas Rainville Health		Business of the Year (50+ Employees) Detour Gold East Side Mario’s Premier Recycling Ltd.
City of Timmins Non-Profit Organization Anti-Hunger Coalition Timmins Stella Nova Gymnastics Centre Timmins Native Friendship Centre		Environmental Excellence Bees and Berries Farm Blue Heron Environmental Premier Recycling Ltd.
NorthernTel Technology EDM Digital Gorf Manufacturing/Contracting Ltd. Great White North Technology Consulting Inc.		De Beers Canada Aboriginal Partnership To be announced at the Nova Awards

For more information contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
policy@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-1900

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce
With more than 800 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Ring of Fire to generate $25 billion, thousands of jobs across Ontario, study shows

Thu, 20 Feb 2014 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, Feb. 20, 2014: A new report has revealed that development of Ontario’s Ring of Fire, the mineral-rich region in the James Bay Lowlands, would generate up to $9.4 billion in new economic activity over the first 10 years of operation and sustain 5,500 jobs annually.

Issued by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce and Ontario Chamber of Commerce, Beneath the Surface: Uncovering the Economic Potential of Ontario’s Ring of Fire says the region’s potential mining projects could generate more than $25 billion across numerous sectors in Ontario by 2047. This includes $2.7 billion in revenues for the financial services sector and $1.2 billion for the wholesale and retail trade sectors.

“Our study makes it clear that the short- and long-term economic impacts of the Ring of Fire extend far beyond mining,” says Allan O’Dette, President and CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.
“It’s time to broaden the Ring of Fire conversation to include all of Ontario, not just the Far North.”

The development of the Ring of Fire would also generate an estimated $6.2 billion for the mining industry in its first 10 years, concentrated primarily in Northern Ontario.

“Although this would mean great things for the North, it’s difficult to overstate the massive economic impact that the Ring of Fire could have for all Ontarians,” said Phil Barton, President of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce. “Many people tend to think of the project as something that will specifically benefit just one region or another, but this study shows that this just isn’t true. The Ring of Fire is truly a once-in-a-generation economic opportunity for the province and indeed the country.”

The study shows that the Ring of Fire will generate significant revenue for all levels of government, to the tune of $1.95 billion within the first 10 years of its development.

However, there remain several major obstacles for the development of the Ring of Fire. To address one of the largest issues, the study’s authors are calling on the provincial and federal governments to design and fund a plan to address inadequate transportation infrastructure in the region, which is cited as a significant barrier.

“There is a strong business case for governments to invest in this economic opportunity,” says O’Dette. “The federal government, in particular, needs to play a more active role in this development, as it has for other transformative projects including the oil sands, the St. Lawrence Seaway, and Churchill Falls.”

The need for the federal government to invest in infrastructure for major resource projects like the Ring of Fire is something the Timmins Chamber of Commerce has long argued for, even garnering the support of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce for this policy in September 2013.

With the Canadian Chamber and its 450 chambers of commerce and boards of trade -- representing 200,000 businesses nationwide -- supporting this approach, it’s hoped that all governments can work together to help make the Ring of Fire a reality.

“The sheer scope of the Ring of Fire is such that everyone must work together to realize its full potential,” said Barton. “Making this happen will require firm commitments and considerable effort from everyone involved, and we sincerely hope all levels of government are willing to come to the table.”

To further discuss the report and what the Ring of Fire will mean for Ontario, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a free event for its members on at Cedar Meadows on March 7 from 8 a.m. - 10 a.m. It will feature a panel discussion with the study authors from the Ontario Chamber, as well as representatives from industry and First Nations communities. For more information, visit www.timminschamber.on.ca

Additional highlights from the study include:

Within the first 10 years of its development, the Ring of Fire will:

generate up to $9.4 billion in Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
generate up to $6.2 billion for Ontario’s mining industry
sustain up to 5,500 jobs annually (full time equivalents)
generate nearly $2 billion in government revenue, divided between the federal, provincial, and municipal governments.

Within the first 32 years of its development, the Ring of Fire will generate more than $25 billion in economic activity across numerous sectors in Ontario, of which mining is just one

$2.7 billion in revenues for the financial services sector
$1.2 billion for the wholesale and retail trade sectors
$600 million for the manufacturing sector
$500 million for the utilities sector

Read Beneath the Surface: Uncovering the Economic Potential of Ontario’s Ring of Fire: http://tinyurl.com/RingofFireReport

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Federal budget promising for Timmins businesses, says Chamber

Wed, 12 Feb 2014 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, February 12, 2014: With proposed investments in workforce training, infrastructure, and broadband Internet access, the 2014 federal budget holds promise for local businesses, according to the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

The federal budget, as tabled on Feb. 11 by Finance Minister Jim Flaherty, offers several opportunities for Timmins businesses, including:

$40 million to support full-time internships for recent post-secondary graduates, including $15 million specifically for small and medium-sized enterprises;
The creation of the Canada Apprentice Loan, offering interest-free loans of up to $4,000 per period of technical training for apprentices studying Red Seal trades;
Expanded research funding for post-secondary institutions, including $1.5 billion to create the Canada First Research Excellence Fund over the next 10 years;
$305 million over five years to extend and enhance broadband Internet service in rural communities;
$1.3 billion in additional infrastructure spending;
A four-year, $90.4-million investment in upgrading technology in forestry operations; and
Another one-year extension of the 15-per-cent Mineral Exploration Tax Credit for flow-through share investors.

“By and large, the 2014 federal budget is a promising one, with several measures that stand to make a difference for Timmins businesses,” said Timmins Chamber President Phil Barton.

“In particular, we’re pleased to note that the federal government continues to place a considerable priority on improving hiring and training support for small and medium-sized enterprises. Staffing concerns continue to be top of mind for many Timmins businesses, and initiatives to assist with the issue are certainly appreciated.”

This support includes $40 million to create 4,000 new internships across Canada, of which 3,000 will be provided in “high-demand fields” such as skilled trades and engineering. The remaining 1,000 internships will be specifically created in small and medium-sized enterprises.

Also of interest to the Timmins businesses is the federal budget’s focus on enhancing Internet access in rural and remote areas. Broadband access is a crucial tool for doing business in today’s economy, said Barton, and local firms have strongly benefited from previous federally funded enhancements through such organizations as Timmins’ NEOnet.

Also of benefit to the region is another one-year extension of the 15-per-cent Mineral Exploration Tax Credit. Timmins in particular stands to benefit, said Barton, as junior mineral exploration firms can continue to see incentives for investing in the region. In support of another crucial resource sector, the federal government has also pledged $90.4 million to assist with technology upgrades for forestry companies.

However, there are some items of contention in the budget, including the continued rollout of the Canada Job Grant, the controversial training measure introduced in last year’s federal budget. Provincial governments have argued that the proposed program may potentially impose additional training costs on them, a concern shared by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. As well, the budget includes the First Nations Control of First Nations Education Act, which drew mixed reviews and outcry from Aboriginal groups when it was announced last Friday.

“There are a few items in the budget that we hope are open for discussion, but we’re generally satisfied that the federal government is focusing on key priorities for Timmins businesses,” said Barton. “In particular, we hope the government is willing to continue engaging with the provinces, First Nations communities, and employers on developing appropriate models for education and skills training. We look forward to working with our provincial and federal partners to help make these changes happen for the good of business, both in Timmins and beyond.”

This generally positive point of view was also shared by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, which saw much to like in the 2013 federal budget.

Specifically, the organization applauded the federal government’s plan to invest $1.3 billion in additional infrastructure funding, which is crucial to maintaining the economic health of the country’s communities, according to Canadian Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Perrin Beatty.

“Nobody cuts a ribbon when a new sewer pipe is installed. It’s just not a dramatic moment,” said Beatty. “But thousands of Canadians idling in their cars because of traffic congestion or bridge delays can tell us what investments in infrastructure can mean to our quality of life and productivity.”

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

With over 800 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Nominations open for 2014 Nova Business Excellence Awards

Tue, 04 Feb 2014 00:00:00 GMT

Nominations are now being accepted for the Timmins Chamber of Commerce’s 2014 Nova Business Excellence Awards, the region’s biggest celebration of entrepreneurial achievement.

To be held at the McIntyre Arena on Thursday, May 22, the Nova Awards are a prestigious gala event recognizing the best of Timmins business across 14 categories.

More than 600 people attended in both 2012 and 2013, and this year’s event promises to uphold its reputation as a fantastic way to honour the business community, according to Phil Barton, President of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“Every year, the Nova Awards shine a spotlight on Timmins’ best and brightest entrepreneurs, who are some of the most knowledgeable in the world,” said Barton.
“But before they can be celebrated, they have to be nominated. If you know of an outstanding business worthy of a Nova Award, go online, fill out the form, and tell us what makes them special.”

Nominees are now being accepted for the following awards:

Business Contribution to Community (1-30 employees) Award
Porcupine Gold Mines - Goldcorp Canada Ltd. Business Contribution to Community (31+ employees) Award
Service Excellence Award
Caisse Populaire de Timmins New Business (Under 2 Years) Award
RBC Marketing Innovation Achievement Award
Collège Boréal Young Entrepreneur (Under 30) Award
NorFab Metal and Machine Best Place to Work Award
TD Bank Group Business of the Year (1-5 Employees) Award
Scotiabank Business of the Year (6-49 Employees) Award
Northern Credit Union Limited Business of the Year (50+ Employees) Award
City of Timmins Non-Profit Organization Award
Environmental Excellence Award
NorthernTel Technology Award
De Beers Canada Aboriginal Partnership Award

This year’s Nova Awards will feature a “garden party” theme, and in the spirit of renewal, the Chamber has simplified the nomination process with a streamlined form that is fully completed online.

“This year, we’ve made it easier than ever to nominate a unique business or entrepreneur,” said Barton. “We want to make it as convenient as possible to help honour Timmins’ great achievers.”

Nomination packages will be made available online at http://tinyurl.com/NovaAwards2014. Nominations will be accepted until March 21, 2014, and the finalists will be notified prior to April 4, 2014.

Tickets for the Nova Awards will go on sale Feb. 10, 2014.

For more information contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
policy@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-1900

Timmins businesses among most confident in province

Wed, 29 Jan 2014 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, January 28, 2014: Timmins’ business community is among the most confident in Ontario, according to a new survey from the Timmins Chamber of Commerce, the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) and Leger Marketing.

The annual Ontario Business Confidence Index shows that 53 percent of the 137 businesses surveyed in Timmins are confident in Ontario’s economy--up 7 percentage points from last year.

The index also shows that 81 percent of businesses in the region are confident in their own outlook, another increase of 7 percentage points over the previous year. When it comes to growing their business, just over half of businesses surveyed (57 percent) say they plan to expand within the next five years.

“Despite some of the challenges the economy has encountered over the last year, Timmins businesses are clearly poised to make the most of the growth being predicted for the region in 2014,” says Phil Barton, President, Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“Our entrepreneurs are some of the most resilient and knowledgeable in the world, and it’s not surprising that their history of success is leading to strong optimism about the coming year.”

The buoyancy of Timmins’ business community is uncommon, sitting 7 full points above the provincial average, according to the OCC.

“According to our recent regional economic outlook, Timmins businesses are feeling strong and very confident in their own outlooks--more so than almost any other community or region in the province,” says Allan O’Dette, President and CEO of the OCC. “And it looks like Timmins’ businesses are only going to feel stronger as time goes on, when comparing this year’s numbers to last year’s.”

The survey of businesses is featured in Emerging Stronger 2014, a business-driven economic agenda released by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce and authored by the OCC, the Mowat Centre and Leger Marketing. The report identifies the immediate steps the government and the private sector must take to enhance Ontario’s economic competitiveness and spur job creation in the province.

“There are actions that government and business can do to boost our economy and business confidence,” said O’Dette. “But right now there is uncertainty in Ontario’s business climate, possibly as a result of potential changes to the pension system and rising energy costs.”

Among these key priorities is the need for various levels of government to take unified and decisive action on facilitating development in the Ring of Fire, a significant mineral deposit in northwestern Ontario.

“The Timmins Chamber of Commerce has long argued that the potential economic benefits of the Ring of Fire would spread throughout not just Ontario but all of Canada,” said Barton. “The OCC has dedicated itself quite firmly to lending the voice of business to help spark further action on this crucial project, and we’re pleased that this is reflected in Emerging Stronger 2014. We look forward to working with the OCC, business, as well as our government and community partners to continue finding solutions to the many issues that surround this once-in-a-generation opportunity.”

Among the survey’s findings for Timmins are:

81 percent of businesses are confident in their own economic outlook, 7 percentage points above the provincial average
57 percent of businesses plan to expand in the next five years, just below the provincial average of 58 percent
46 percent of businesses believe that Ontario’s economy is headed in the right direction, above the provincial average of 42 percent
53 percent of the region’s businesses are confident in Ontario’s economy, 6 percentage points above the provincial average

Download Emerging Stronger here.

About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

With 800 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Member Spotlight: December 2013

Mon, 16 Dec 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Name: Guiho Saw Sales & Marine Ltd.

Location: 2480 Riverside Drive, Timmins

In business since: 1947

# of employees: Seven

Description: Serving Timmins and area since 1947, Guiho Saw Sales & Marine Ltd. is a dealer for Suzuki ATV, motorcycles and outboards, Stihl Yard Equipment, Johnson/Evinrude parts and service, Lund Boats and Mercury Marine, Cub Cadet, Briggs & Stratton, Simplcity, Airens, Husqvarna Parts & Service, MTD, TORO, Kimpex, Motovan, and Gama. Guiho has over 56 years of shop experience on all recreational vehicles, chainsaws, outboards/inboards, snowmobiles, lawn equipment, etc.

How did you/your business get started, and why did you choose Timmins?

The business was open and operating when we purchased it. We wanted to be #1 in the Timmins region and to serve customers in our own way.

What has your experience doing business in Timmins been like?

Good. Local people are good people; remember to keep your business local and support your community.

What is the biggest challenge you have overcome as a business?

Managing growth – we’re moving to a brand new location, down the road and just past Canadian Tire.

You are expanding to a brand new location as of November 28 – what has the road leading up to this move been like? To what do you attribute this success?

We provide good customer service, and the new larger location to display and deal with customers will be the story to success.

Are there any future projects or plans on the horizon that you would like people to know about?

We are planning to start carrying a larger stock of Lund Boats and Mercury. Other things are coming in the future but we cannot divulge anything too specific at this time.

We would like to thank our customers for their support over the years, and we look forward to serving all their needs at our new location. We invite everyone to come out and check out what we have. We will need some time to organize once we’ve moved in to our new location so hopefully everyone will be cooperative.

Again, thanks for the business - without our customers, our level of success would not be where it is now.

Hours of Operation:
Monday to Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 1 pm
Sunday: Closed

Response to Daily Press Letter to the Editor December 13, 2013

Fri, 13 Dec 2013 00:00:00 GMT

We would like to address any concern that may have created by today’s Letter to the Editor.

As local businesses are strong supporters of local hockey, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce as a business association and community partner has worked very hard to accommodate the Schumacher Day Minor Hockey Association’s request to move the Nova Awards so they may use the McIntyre Arena on April 10.

After countless hours of investigating municipal facilities and recommending alternative dates, the Chamber was informed by the City on Nov. 25 that we would retain our April 10 booking, as relocating the tournament to the McIntyre would incur costs for rapid ice removal for an event following the tournament. The tournament relocation would generate these costs whether or not the Chamber were to move to an earlier or later date, as there are other community, non-Chamber events booked in that timeframe.

In fact, the City melts the ice every year after March 31 to turn the McIntyre Arena into a multipurpose facility to host local groups and events whose size means they cannot be located anywhere else in Timmins; this includes the Home Show, the Sportsman Show, and the Porcupine Prospectors and Developers Association. With 600 attendees every year, including many out-of-town visitors, the Nova Awards are one such event as it requires three full days to set up.

As such, the City notified us that we were to keep to our original date, which we had booked immediately following our last Nova Awards -- something the Schumacher Day Minor Hockey Association was aware of when they made their tournament bid, which was submitted to be hosted at the Sportsplex.

We have exhausted every single option to allow this tournament to occur at the McIntyre Arena. In further consultation with the City, we have offered to move our event to May 22 after additional review of the Mac schedule of events. The decision is now in the hands of City Council as to whether they wish to use additional funds to support ice removal to allow this tournament to be held at the McIntyre Arena rather than the Sportsplex to honour their prior commitments to facility users.

The Chamber remains a strong supporter of the City and looks forward to the resolution of this matter by Council for the community.

Panels and Pipes Incorporated makes the 2013 Ontario Business Achievement Award shortlist

Thu, 03 Oct 2013 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, October 3, 2013—The Timmins Chamber of Commerce is pleased to congratulate Panels and Pipes Incorporated (PPI) on being named a finalist for a 2013 Ontario Business Achievement Award.

Hosted by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC), the OBAA’s are the premier business awards gala in the province with a single focus on celebrating business success. Every year, businesses across a range of sizes and sectors are recognized for their achievements in areas including innovation, market expansion, exports and corporate citizenship.

After reviewing hundreds of nominations from across Ontario, twenty businesses have been selected by an independent jury for their successes, including Timmins’ own Panels and Pipes Incorporated, headed by President and CEO Jean-Paul Legault.

“Panels and Pipes is excited to be a finalist for an OBAA in the Corporate Contributor category,” said Legault. “Being recognized on a provincial level for something that comes naturally to our company is an honour. We are thankful to the Timmins Chamber of Commerce for recognizing our support and dedication to our community and putting our name forward for this coveted award.”

The Corporate Contributor Award is reserved for the corporation whose community investments have yielded the greatest returns.

“Panels and Pipes believes in supporting the communities we live and do work in. We see these as investments in ensuring the long term sustainability of organizations and community events and enhancing the quality of life for our workers and citizens. Our company is especially proud of the Hollinger Park Skating Oval, as well as our dedication to revitalizing our downtown core. We are working to create a vibrant and attractive city for our company to succeed,” said Legault.

Over 500 business and political leaders will celebrate PPI and its peers at the 2013 OBAA gala, to be held in Toronto on November 20th.

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With 800 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Kim Wakeford
Marketing and Communications Specialist
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
marketing@timminschamber.on.ca

Finalists announced for the 2013 Timmins Young Professionals Awards

Thu, 03 Oct 2013 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, October 3, 2013—With nominations closed and judging underway, the Timmins Chamber is pleased to announce the 20 finalists for the 2013 Timmins Young Professionals Awards.

Nominations were accepted over seven distinct and brand new categories, allowing the Young Professionals Awards Committee to celebrate a dynamic group of local Young Professionals. Committee Co-Chairs Lacey Rigg and Kylie Laughren believe that this year’s awards will once again provide an important opportunity both to the community and to the nominees to highlight the important work Young Professionals do for Timmins.

“I think it’s really important that we let our local young professionals know that we appreciate them and that their hard work isn’t going unnoticed,” said Laughren. “Young Professionals like the ones in this group of finalists are part of what enriches Timmins as a vibrant, tight-knit community and makes it a great place to live, work, and play.”

Tickets are now on sale for the gala event, to be held on Thursday, October 24 at the Porcupine Dante Club, and can be purchased online at timminschamber.on.ca.

The finalists and their corresponding categories are as follows:

Young Professional – Young Leader
Steven Black, Kidd Operations
Shannon Costello, Timmins Family YMCA
Leonard Rickard, Detour Gold

Young Professional – Young Volunteer
Amanda Dyer, Rogers Communications Inc. (Q92/KISS)
Cheryl Dunn, Millson Forestry & Timmins Family YMCA
Kaila Seguin, Manulife Securities Inc.

Young Professional – Young Deal Maker
Brigitte Vanderloo, Holiday Inn Express & Suites Timmins
Jessica Lyrette, Timmins Honda
Chris Hubbs, DAVIDsTEA

Young Professional – Professional Services
Coraly Curley, Hygiene by Claire Quesnel
Carolynn Cooper, Family Eye Care – Dr. Simpson, Dr. Beaulne & Dr. Briand

Young Professional – Creative Spirit
Adam McKay, AJM Media
Brooke Ballantyne, Defined by Design
Jenny Wong, Bodhi Tree Hot Yoga Studio

Young Professional – Trades and Technology
Edward Haasen, Haasen Farms Limited
Waleed Zahra, Lucid Networks Corporation
Jeremy Wilson, Great White Electrical Services (Timmins) Ltd.

Next-Generation Best Place to Work
Logikal Code
Gorf Manufacturing/Contracting Ltd.
JTR & Custom Works Inc.

Member of the Month October 2013: Rainville Health

Tue, 01 Oct 2013 00:00:00 GMT

With 16 years of experience providing health care in Timmins and no signs of slowing down, Patrick and Tina Rainville continue to build on their success with big plans for Rainville Health, their unique podiatric practice.

The two co-owners have just cut the ribbon on a new 5,000-square-foot location on Algonquin Boulevard, opened a satellite clinic in Cochrane, and plans are well underway to open a new satellite clinic in Kirkland Lake in November.

“This is our third location in Timmins - we outgrew our last two,” said Tina.
“Just five years ago, there were only four of us, and now we have 13 staff.”

As the business has grown, so has its ever-expanding range of services, leading its name to be changed from Complete Foot Care to Rainville Health.

“We wanted our name to encompass our services that care for the whole body,” said Patrick. “We want to focus on the feet as well as the rest of the body. The idea is that someone can come here and be completely taken care of: we have a full esthetics department, we have a massage therapist coming on board, and we’re going to have a yoga instructor here once a week.”

The business’ new Timmins location includes a state-of-the-art central fabrication facility — the only one of its kind north of Sudbury — where Rainville staff can create custom orthopedic inserts for clients. It also boasts an orthopedic shoe store and clinic, plenty of examination areas and procedure rooms, and an esthetics department.

“We still have extra room here, so we are looking for other health care providers to join us, too,” said Patrick, noting that he has already seen the benefits of having more departments specializing in different areas operating in the same place. “It’s all complementary medicine. If I have a client who is having trouble moving, for example, I can get the yoga instructor in here to stretch him or her out. That benefits everyone.”

Patrick and Tina first met at Canada’s only chiropody school, located in Toronto, before working in Ottawa for a time. However, when the opportunity to move back to Patrick’s hometown of Timmins arose, the two jumped at the chance.

The move paid off: with roughly 500 chiropodists in Canada, Rainville Health has become a regional centre for this type of care, especially in light of its approach to caring for the body. Further, its fabrication lab is big enough that to create insoles for other practices throughout the region.

With strong levels of expansion in a relatively short amount of time, Rainville’s owners were quick to learn to manage this growth, as well as their newly sizeable staff.

“We actually started taking a business management course focused on learning to provide the best service you can by using your staff in the most efficient way possible and to their best capacity, so that we’re not always running on a hamster wheel,” said Tina. “It’s really taught us how to pick the right team and trust them with the right things. I think we’ve seen a lot of good things because of that. We have a great team.”

Rainville Health is located at 70 Algonquin Boulevard West, and you can find them online at rainvillehealth.ca. You can contact them at (705) 268-3338 or visit them during their hours of operation on Monday: 9:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m., Tuesday: 7 a.m. - 7 p.m., Wednesday: 7 a.m. - 5 p.m., Thursday: 9 a.m. - 7 p.m., Friday: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Click here to see the full-sized photo.

Timmins Chamber takes action on mining transportation and energy

Tue, 01 Oct 2013 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, October 1, 2013—The Timmins Chamber of Commerce is taking action to push the federal government to partner with industry on funding infrastructure related to mining projects in remote areas such as Ontario’s Ring of Fire.

At the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s (CCC) annual general meeting held Sept. 28-30, the Timmins Chamber successfully lobbied representatives of the country’s largest business advocacy group to push for more federal funding partnerships for mining-related transportation and energy infrastructure.

Held in Kelowna, B.C., the event saw nearly 500 delegates -- representing more than 200,000 Canadian businesses -- debating policies put forward by Chambers from around the country to determine the CCC’s top priorities for the coming year. 2013-14 Timmins Chamber President Phil Barton and Timmins Chamber Manager of Policy, Research and Communications Nick Stewart were on hand to successfully lobby for Timmins Chamber members’ interests.

“Timmins’ economy is closely linked to the health of the mining industry, and there are many projects throughout Northern Ontario that could have a strong and positive impact on our local businesses,” said Barton.

“However, many of these projects are in remote areas, and are being delayed by a lack of transportation or energy infrastructure; these projects are also often in areas with First Nations communities who are also strongly in need of that same infrastructure. Industry is often willing to share the costs of this development, and the adoption of this policy by the delegates of the CCC is a crucial first step in bringing the federal government to the table on this issue.”

Having adopted Timmins’ energy policies, the CCC will use those ideas as part of its efforts to enact change in the coming months and years.

This policy, entitled Infrastructure Investment Essential to Mining Sector Growth, was crafted in consultation between the Timmins Chamber’s Government Regulation and Policy Committee, area businesses, the Thunder Bay Chamber of Commerce and Greater Sudbury Chamber of Commerce, as well as B.C.’s Terrace and District Chamber of Commerce.

Examples of the need for greater federal support of remote mining projects include the Ring of Fire in Northern Ontario’s James Bay Lowlands, a mineral-rich region in northwestern Ontario worth approximately $50 billion. However, project proponents have described the lack of transportation and energy infrastructure as a serious hurdle to its progress; this type of challenge is common for many strategic mining areas throughout Canada, contributing to the adoption of the Timmins Chamber policy by CCC delegates.

“Our members -- as well as the greater national economy -- will definitely benefit from having the Canadian Chamber of Commerce adopt this policy, which was achieved through strong partnerships with our fellow Chambers,” said Barton. “We’re extremely proud to serve as the voice of business in our region, and our members have been very clear in their desire to see the federal government participate in funding partnerships in this way. Now that we have the full support of the national Chamber network, we look forward to working with our regional, provincial and federal partners and governments to make this happen.”

To view the full versions of the policy that will now be championed by the CCC, please visit the Chamber’s website at www.timminschamber.on.ca.

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Contact:
Kim Wakeford
Marketing and Communications Specialist
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
marketing@timminschamber.on.ca

Small Business Week 2013 - Schedule now available!

Fri, 13 Sep 2013 00:00:00 GMT

This year's schedule for Small Business Week is now available. Click here to download it.

Member of the Month September 2013: J.J.'s Ranch

Sun, 01 Sep 2013 00:00:00 GMT

During its 27 years in the Dupuis family, Schumacher night club J.J.’s Ranch has built a loyal customer base through stellar customer service and a reputation for giving back to the community.

“We have a lot to offer here - a friendly staff who likes to have fun, tons of fundraising opportunities, and an outdoor space unlike any other in town,” said Leslie-Anne Dupuis, who has managed the bar for the past nine years.

This summer was a prosperous one for J.J.’s, with a growing number of customers travelling from throughout Northern Ontario, Timmins and South Porcupine to enjoy all that Schumacher’s finest has to offer. Its already considerable appeal continues to grow year to year, especially in light of recent additions that have included a newly renovated and licensed patio that accommodates up to 170 patrons and features a campfire.

“We’re now open exclusively from Friday to Monday, so we’re really here for the weekend warriors,” said Dupuis.

In addition to these expansions, J.J.’s has earned a reputation as the top local destination for karaoke lovers, who flock to there every Friday and Saturday night. It’s in keeping with the musical spirit of the bar’s early days, when a live band was a regular fixture, though this transitioned to karaoke nights in 1991 due to costs.

Maintaining music as a core part of J.J.’s was critical, as it also serves as the backbone of the Dupuis family, which is famed for its musical talent: both Leslie-Anne and her grandmother, Elisabeth Johnson, have been inducted into the Great Northern Opry by the Northern Ontario Country Music Association.

“Music is in everything we do here, and I really don’t think we would be as successful with the karaoke without being a musical family.”

Dupuis’ passion for music and the karaoke scene has allowed both to flourish at J.J.’s, which has given local amateur musicians an opportunity to gain some stage experience.

“We work with a lot of singers here to help them improve their act, and many of them go on to bigger competitions,” said Dupuis.

This focus on above-and-beyond customer service extends into the bar’s musical tribute shows, which center on customer participation.

“We incorporate our customers into our tribute shows. We’ve done tributes to Johnny Cash, the Beatles, and Elvis Presley. We love getting the customers involved.”

This engagement with their patrons has clearly paid off, as the bar is already booking for Christmas staff parties, preparing for their annual two-day Hallowe’en blow-out in the fall.

“Christmas is an especially big deal for us,” said Dupuis. “We book three months in advance until about a month after Christmas. The bar is transformed into a winter wonderland with 30 fully decorated Christmas trees and the decorations stay up for all of our events throughout January, until the first week of February. It’s really something to see.”

Throughout all this growth, J.J.’s management has been mindful of the bar’s deep roots in the community, which has fostered its success; their tribute shows are used to raise funds across a range of causes. In the past, proceeds have gone to Canadian Cancer Society, local baseball teams, and individuals struggling with medical issues.

“Anybody in the community who needs help is welcome to call us. We’ll charge a cover, host a potluck or have a tribute show. We really pull together to help out the community.”

J.J.’s Ranch is open from 5 p.m. - 2 a.m. on Fridays, 8 p.m. - 2 a.m. on Saturdays, and 5 p.m. - 12 a.m. on Sundays and Mondays. To stay updated on all upcoming events and shows, be sure to check out their monthly newsletter through their Facebook page. J.J.’s Ranch is located at 30 Father Costello Drive in Schumacher, and you can reach them by phone at (705) 465-0683.

Click here to see the full-sized image.

Member of the Month August 2013: Value Village

Thu, 01 Aug 2013 00:00:00 GMT

With a tight-knit staff and a penchant for helping out while having fun, Timmins’ Value Village has proven itself an invaluable charitable force in the community.

"Every time people donate, we pay the Canadian Diabetes Association for the donation,” said Manager Cathy Landry.
“It’s a great cause.”

The store’s partnership with the local non-profit has a relatively low profile, something Landry would like to change in order to help drive up donations. Noting that Value Village maintains a constant dialogue with the Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA), Landry emphasized the importance of promoting the relationship between the two organizations, something which reflects the company’s mandate to partner with non-profits in their host communities.

“While we’re a business like any other, the main thing that makes us different is that we support a non-profit. We really want people to know that their donations go back into the community.”

Over the past 10 years, 140 Value Village locations across North America have donated more than $1.5 billion to non-profit partners, providing innumerable benefits to those communities. All products not sold in stores are recycled.

With a staff of about 40, Timmins Value Village’s charitable attitude also defines its retail operations, as Landry noted the importance of providing an opportunity for people of all incomes to shop on a budget.

“Our pricing can accommodate any budget; it’s great for families.”

In addition to their overall social consciousness, Value Village expands its customer base with sale days every quarter and a free-to-join member club.

The manager attributes much of the store’s success to the wide and enduring appeal of thrift stores.

“You’ll never find the same thing twice. We get everything from brand-name items to vintage items; you can find some real treasures here.”

With September right around the corner, the store is gearing up for the busy back-to-school season. By carrying everything from clothes and shoes to backpacks and binders, the store aims to take some weight off local parents’ shoulders by giving them an affordable place to shop for everything children need to hit the books again.

Continuing into the fall, Value Village is once again pushing itself as Timmins’ Halloween headquarters.

“We really want people to know that we are the one-stop shop for Halloween,” said Landry, whose staff truly gets into the spirit of the season. “Our team members dress up and we have in-store contests and district contests. We do a catwalk every Thursday so that customers can see what different customes look like. It’s just a fun time.”

The store will also be hosting Timmins’ second annual zombie walk this fall, following up on the success of last year’s inaugural event which saw more than 70 residents attend in full zombie garb.

With its wide variety of both new and used products, Value Village offers Hallowe’en-lovers an opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind costume, decorate their home, or throw a great Halloween party without breaking the bank.

“We can accommodate the whole family, young adults, themed parties, anything. We have makeup, hairspray, home decor - we really have it all.”

The ability of the Value Village staff to be a positive force in the community, all while having fun, is clearly a point of pride for Landry.

“I love my team, I love the store, and I love what we do for the community.”

You can visit Value Village at 77 Waterloo Road from 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. on Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. on Saturday, or 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. on Sundays. You can also contact them at (705) 268-7701.

Click here to see the full-sized image.

Timmins Chamber of Commerce announces 2013-2014 Board of Directors

Tue, 30 Jul 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, July 25, 2013—With all the ballots counted, the members of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce have officially elected seven individuals to represent them at the heart of city’s largest business organization.

Coming from a range of business sectors and backgrounds, these seven will now sit on the Chamber’s 21-member board, providing direction and guidance to its policy, advocacy and member service efforts through the coming Chamber year.

They will be officially sworn in during the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting, due to be held at the Porcupine Dante Club on Sept. 18, 2013.

“The members of this year’s Board of Directors are truly dynamic, experienced, and passionate about business, and I’m eager to begin working with them when the new Chamber year launches this fall,” said Phil Barton, manager of Lucid Networks, and incoming 2013-2014 Chamber president.
“The board plays a very important role in making sure that our 800 members are well represented, and I’m fully confident that they will be well served by some of the best business minds in the North.”

The new additions to the Board include Frank Haasen, co-owner of Haasen Farms; Jessica Hardy, branch manager of Community First Credit Union; Nancy Mageau, commercial account manager with the Royal Bank of Canada; and Robert Knox, co-owner/operator of three local Tim Hortons franchises.

Several directors were also elected to return on the 2013-14 board, including Claude J. Gagnon, owner of Claude J. Gagnon Professional Photography; Shannin Metatawabin, manager of Aboriginal Affairs and Sustainability for De Beers Canada; and Jason Laneville, general sales manager with CTV Television.

Electronic and print ballots were sent out to each of the Chamber’s 1,100+ eligible voting members, who had one month to place their vote for their board representation. Each board member serves a two-year term, after which they can apply for re-election, for a maximum of three terms.

The following is the complete list of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce’s 2013-2014 Board of Directors:

President	Company
Phil Barton	Lucid Networks
Past President	Company
Art Pultz	Rogers Communications Inc. (Q92 / EZ Rock)
Treasurer	Company
Ginette Nakashoji	Fuller Jenks Landau
Board Members	Company
Alan Thorne	Tembec
Andrea Griener	Clearlogic Consulting Professionals
Bill McMillan	Porcupine Gold Mines – Goldcorp Canada Ltd.
Christine Bender	Northern College
Claude J. Gagnon	Claude J. Gagnon Professional Photography
David Foster	Riopelle Group Professional Corporation
Debbie Browne	Freedom 55 Financial
Frank Haasen	Haasen Farms
Gilles Blouin	BESTECH
Jason Laneville	CTV Television
Jessica Hardy	Community First Credit Union
John Labine	Lake Shore Gold Corp.
Kurt Bigeau	Sun Life Financial
Nancy Mageau	Royal Bank of Canada
Peter Murray	Ontario Power Generation
Robert Knox	Tim Hortons
Roland Magnan	Eastlink
Shannin Metatawabin	De Beers Canada
Wayne Bozzer	Timmins Family YMCA

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce
With over 800 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the "Voice of Business in Timmins" since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Media contact:
Nick Stewart
Manager of Policy, Research and Communications
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Member of the Month July 2013: D&L Docks and Recreation Ltd.

Mon, 01 Jul 2013 00:00:00 GMT

By providing customers with quality service and a large selection of products, D&L Docks and Recreation Ltd. has evolved into the successful business it is today.

“We’ve had a really busy summer so far, but it’s been a lot of fun,” said Dan Perrier, who co-owns the business with his wife, Line.
“We are always looking to bring new products to Timmins.”

Helping Timmins residents make the most of the fleeting summer months, D&L Docks and Recreation designs, supplies, and installs docks, while also carrying a range of kayaks, inflatables, saunas, and wooden and recycled plastic outdoor furniture for the cottage or backyard.

While D&L has exclusive distribution rights for many of its products, staff at the store is also happy to order anything they don’t happen to have in stock.

“If we don’t have it on hand, we’ll find it for you.”

D&L Docks first began in 2005, as Dan and Line spent their weekends showcasing their products at local retailers. It quickly grew to a seasonal operation and then a year-round business, which is now open seven days a week during the summer.

According to Perrier, this impressive growth can be attributed to the company’s increasingly broad selection.

“We’re constantly adding new products, and as we do that our customer base grows every year.”

To stay profitable during the colder months, the Perriers have integrated a home and cottage decor shop into their operations.

“We are really trying to promote the decor shop to people; it keeps us busy regardless of the season,” said Perrier. “During the holiday season, we turn it into a Christmas store. We have a really amazing display that brings people in.”

Like many businesses enjoying Timmins’ current economic boom, the Perriers have struggled with finding enough staff to accommodate D&L Docks’ progress.

“We’re just so busy that my wife and I are putting in a lot of hours. We’ve hired a summer student, so hopefully we can start to let go a little bit.”

Throughout this growth and change, Perrier has felt the support of Timmins’ tight-knit business community, he said; in turn, D&L Docks has invested in the community in a personal way.

“We’ve had distributors in the Muskokas encourage us to move south but we were born and raised here in Timmins, and we love it here. Our whole family is here, and we don’t have any plans to settle anywhere else.”

Over the years, the business has cemented its ties to the community through its involvement in various projects and events, including being entrusted with the manufacture and installation of the docks at the well-used Mattagami river boat launch in 2011.

“It’s a great spot and it’s great exposure for us,” said Perrier. “If someone is looking to see some of our work, they can just drive up the road."

The business is also an important resource for participants in the hugely popular Great Canadian Kayak Challenge by offering kayak rental, sales, and training courses, which take place several times a month all summer long.

As these efforts contribute to D&L Docks’ continued success, it’s no wonder the Perriers are looking to expand its physical location.

“It’s definitely getting tight in here,” said Perrier. “We’ll be looking for a bigger space in the near future, I think.”

Visit D&L Docks and Recreation during their summer hours from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. on Monday to Wednesday, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Saturdays or 12 p.m. - 4 p.m. on Sundays at 617 Riverside Drive in Timmins. You can find them online at docksandrecreation.com. You can also contact them by phone at (705) 264-0737 or via e-mail at dnldocks@gmail.com.

Click here to see the full-sized photo.

Member of the Month June 2013: The Venture Centre / Le Centre de développement

Sat, 01 Jun 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Whether loaning a new business some start-up cash, or helping an established firm to secure funding to expand, The Venture Centre/Le Centre de développement has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to giving Timmins’ business community a leg up.

“This past year has been particularly productive and successful; we’ve put over $1 million into the community in small business loans,” said Ellen Sinclair, Executive Director.
“We’re here to stimulate business, so we take higher risks and more flexible terms than banks generally will.”

As Timmins’ local Community Futures Development Corporation, The Venture Centre / Le Centre de développement is funded by the federal government through FedNor, and offers a broad range of services: community economic planning and development, funding for community projects and loans for small businesses, as well as business counseling, services and commercial resources. Staff also work with other communities within the organization’s catchment area, including Foleyet, Gogama, Mattagami First Nations, and Shining Tree.

Under the guidance of a volunteer Board of Directors, the seven-member staff of the Venture Centre has a strong focus on stimulating the economy while keeping all decision-making on projects strictly local.

“Whether it’s a business venture or a community venture, we look to our own resources to make the loan - we don’t have to go to a headquarters in southern Ontario to make that decision,” said Sinclair.

Having been with the Venture Centre for 15 years, Sinclair has seen Timmins grow and expand as its business community has diversified, and notes that this past year of high lending has occurred alongside Timmins’ current economic boom.

“I think people are feeling good about the economy and are looking more at starting businesses and getting things moving.”

The organization built upon this optimism last November with the establishment of a new Business Resource Centre, located within the Venture Centre office at the 101 Mall. Designed as a multi-tool for start-up businesses, this space allows budding entrepreneurs to research their business ideas, develop their business plan, apply for funding, register their business, and get staff advice on financing. In keeping with the organization’s mandate to stimulate economic development, use of the space and consultations with staff are free of charge.

This commitment to building the community has also prompted the Venture Centre to build numerous partnerships, including its role in helping to move the citywide Timmins 2020 project forward.

“We’re very excited about ‘I’m In,’ and can’t wait to see the branding project really unfold,” said Sinclair.

This spirit of collaboration has also allowed the organization to become an active participant in the Timmins Chamber of Commerce network.

“We’re fiercely proud of our Chamber. I really think the Chamber keeps the business community well-oiled and connected to each other.”

The Venture Centre also assists with Timmins’ business climate through a score of youth training programs. It has partnered with the Nishnawbe Aski Development Fund on an Aboriginal youth business training course for the past two years, and participates in a pan-northern initiative for increased youth entrepreneurship training.

“We run about eight different programs for kids, just to try to engender that entrepreneurial spirit in them,” said Sinclair. “When they’re thinking of what career path to take, we want them to consider that they could possibly work for themselves.”

Visit the Venture Centre at 134 Pine Street North (101 Mall) Suite 38, open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.. You can call them at (705) 360-5800, and find them online at http://www.venturecentre.on.ca.

Click here to see the full-sized image.

Timmins Chamber fights for lower energy prices in Ontario

Wed, 08 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, May 8, 2013—As soaring energy prices continue to be a major concern for local businesses, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is taking action to push the province for change.

At the Ontario Chamber of Commerce’s (OCC) annual general meeting on May 2-5, the Timmins Chamber successfully fought for the support of the province’s biggest business advocacy group on the issue of reducing energy costs and improving energy infrastructure.

Hosted in Chatham-Kent, the event saw more than 100 delegates -- representing more than 60,000 Ontario businesses -- debating policies put forward by Chambers from around the province to determine the OCC’s top priorities. Timmins Chamber President Art Pultz and 1st Vice-President Phil Barton were on hand to successfully lobby those delegates to include Timmins’ request for energy price reductions among those priorities.

“Timmins businesses know all too well the considerable challenges posed by energy prices in this province, which are some of the most expensive in North America,” said Pultz.
“With costs expected to rise in the coming years, our members asked us to begin advocating for action on their behalf, and that’s precisely what this win represents. The adoption of our policies at the OCC is a sign of its significance to all businesses in Ontario, and it’s an incredibly important first step in making a difference on this issue.”

Having adopted Timmins’ energy policies, the OCC will use those ideas as part of its tireless advocacy efforts to insist the provincial government provide businesses with much-needed energy price relief.

These policies were crafted by the Timmins Chamber’s Government Regulation and Policy Committee following extensive consultation with area businesses, which repeatedly identified energy as one of their top three challenges. This resulted in the creation of three sets of recommendations for the Ontario government to help make the province’s energy costs and capacity more competitive for businesses and communities alike.

These recommendations include creating a plan to reduce energy prices over the long term, while putting in place cost-saving programs for the short term. To make sure these plans can be adequately carried out, the province must also invest in upgrading electrical transmission infrastructure. The Timmins Chamber’s recommendations, as now adopted by the OCC, also include a request for clarity around the costs of the system and the Global Adjustment Fund.

To strengthen these policies and build a broad level of support on energy issues, the Timmins Chamber has worked for several months to create partnerships with like-minded Chambers across the province, including the Prince Edward County, Quinte West, and Windsor-Essex Chambers, as well as the Mississauga Board of Trade. These connections provided some crucial assistance on the debate floor at the OCC annual general meeting, while demonstrating that energy prices are a province-wide problem.

“Our partners were invaluable in helping to move these policies forward, which proves that this crucial issue speaks to basic business competitiveness in this province,” said Pultz. “We’re certainly proud of representing our members’ views with this initial achievement, but now that we have the full support of the Ontario Chamber network and its 60,000 businesses, we certainly look forward to working with them and the provincial government to bring about meaningful change on energy.”

To view the full versions of the policies that will now be championed by the OCC, please click here.

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce
With over 800 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Policy and Communications Director
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Timmins Chamber cautiously supports 2013 provincial budget

Fri, 03 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, May 3, 2013—The Northern Ontario business climate may see some improvements as a result of the 2013 provincial budget, despite the lack of several key items, according to the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

The May 2 presentation of the 2013 provincial budget by Finance Minister Charles Sousa proposed several items relevant to the Timmins area, including:

• Extending capital cost allowance for manufacturers’ machinery and equipment for $265 million over three years;

• Creation of a new fund for Northern municipalities to address roads, bridges and other critical infrastructure, to be made permanent in the next budget.

• More than $35 billion in infrastructure spending over three years;

• Plans to eliminate the deficit by 2017-2018;

• Investment of $295 million over two years in creating jobs for 30,000 young people

• Continued commitment to improving support for Aboriginal loans, infrastructure

“Although there are some glaring omissions, the proposed budget features some positive items for Timmins-area businesses, and indeed for the provincial business climate as a whole,” said Art Pultz, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

“The move to improve job accessibility for youth is a particularly important item at a time where businesses across the North are already struggling with considerable workforce issues. Further commitment to improving Northern infrastructure is equally welcome, and we certainly appreciate the efforts to allow further cost relief for manufacturers.”

This positive approach to enhancing workforce support is also present in the 2013 budget’s proposal to increase opportunities for Aboriginals to more fully participate in the provincial economy. This includes an additional $5 million per year to improve student achievement for Aboriginal students, as well a greater level of support for Aboriginal housing and youth strategies.

However, the budget failed to address key provincial issues that have begun to stand as a concern for the Timmins Chamber in recent years, said Pultz.

For instance, the 2013 budget failed to offer solutions to escalating energy prices, which are a major barrier to Ontario’s business competitiveness. Worse, the budget institutes the possibility of significantly hiking these prices by suggesting a review of the Ontario Clean Energy Benefit program, which reduces electricity prices by 10 per cent.

Additionally, transportation costs for business may see an increase as the budget proposes an elimination of the biodiesel tax exemption under the Fuel Tax Act. As well, the budget fails to declare any halt to the Ontario Northland Transportation Commission’s divestiture, though the associated development of a pan-Northern transportation strategy is certainly welcome.

“Despite some of the positive items in this budget, there are a number of issues that we sorely would have liked to see addressed,” said Pultz. “We sincerely hope that when it comes to providing improvement on topics such as energy pricing, the ONTC, and the Ring of Fire, the province will work with businesses and the affected communities on finding sustainable and competitive solutions.”

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce:
With over 800 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Policy and Communications Director
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Member of the Month May 2013: Porcupine Gold Mines - Goldcorp Canada Ltd.

Wed, 01 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

As one of Timmins’ largest employers, Porcupine Gold Mines (PGM) - Goldcorp Canada Ltd. has forged a uniquely strong bond with Timmins.

From the mine manager on down, the vast majority of PGM’s employees and business partners are long-time residents who have deep roots in the community.

“Goldcorp the company has only been around for a few years, but our operations have been here for over a hundred years,” said Domenic Rizzuto, Goldcorp PGM’s Manager of Human Resources and Corporate Social Responsibility.
“The community and the mine have really grown up together.”

Five generations of Timmins residents have been employed in these globally recognized projects. Currently, Goldcorp PGM employs 760 full-time employees and 400 contractors across their four operating sites.

“Most of us were born and raised here, and we have families here,” said Patricia Buttineau, Communications Coordinator. “The company may go by different names, but it’s the same people behind the names.”

“Goldcorp is part of Timmins, and Timmins is part of Goldcorp,” agreed Rizzuto.

This personal connection to the community is also reflected in the company’s dedication to a wide variety of local charitable efforts, supporting 130 different organizations every year. Most recently, they became an event sponsor for the Canadian Cancer Society’s Relay For Life as well as a key supporter for the Good Samaritan Inn’s purchase of a new shelter.

As a significant community employer, Goldcorp PGM also feels the pains of Timmins’ housing shortage, and is looking to the city’s future by contributing financially to a housing study under the umbrella of the Timmins 2020 strategic plan.

“Our employees are coaches and referees and volunteers - they’re part of the community and they’re engaged in the community,” said Buttineau.

That desire to make Timmins a better place is part of why Goldcorp PGM has undertaken the Hollinger reclamation project. Its goal is to clear the historic Hollinger mine site of dangerous subsidences by creating an open pit mine on the property that will operate for eight to 10 years before the area is then converted into a park. The project is currently in the permitting phase, and work is expected to begin in the coming months.

Goldcorp PGM’s dedication to environmental excellence has repeatedly earned them accolades. Most recently, they were honoured at the Timmins Chamber’s 2013 Nova Business Excellence Awards for their work on the Hollinger tailings management area along Highway 655.

The company has also been recognized on the national stage, having won the Tom Peters Memorial Mine Reclamation Award in 2011 for their work at the Coniaurum mine site, located just northeast of Pearl Lake. Steep banks and heavy downpours caused mine tailings on the 58-hectare property to run off into Porcupine River for nearly 50 years, until PGM reshaped and revegetated the land to the tune of $9 million. The company also established honeybee hives on the site to promote pollination and re-attract wildlife to the area.

Goldcorp PGM also partnered with local First Nations on the Coniaurum project, constructing a tipi site and teaching lodge to give aboriginal youth the opportunity to learn about their culture.

“We’ve also partnered with some of the Elders in the area to try to pair traditional ecological knowledge with scientific knowledge in order to improve reclamation practices in the mining industry” in keeping with Goldcorp PGM’s commitment to respect the land, said Buttineau.

This same approach will continue as Goldcorp PGM moves forward with its Timmins-area projects. These include not only the Hollinger project, but also the sinking of an underground shaft at the Hoyle Pond mine site, as well as additional work at the Dome underground site and Pamour open pit.

For more information on the Hollinger Project, you can visit the Hollinger Project Information Centre at 637 Algonquin Blvd E. (behind the Bulk Barn), open Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from noon to 4 p.m. and Wednesdays from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. You can also contact Heather Duhn, Community Liaison Coordinator at (705) 235-6571.

Click here to see the full-sized picture.

Timmins Chamber announces 2013 Nova Awards recipients

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS – Timmins’ entrepreneurial spirit was on full display at the 2013 Nova Business Excellence Awards, as 600 people packed the McIntyre Arena on April 11 to celebrate the region’s most important businesses and organizations.

Hosted by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce for the 11th consecutive year, the sold-out event once again served to highlight the best of local business. Sixteen awards were handed out across a range of categories at the event, which was emceed by Chamber President Art Pultz.

This year’s notable recipients are a sign of the community’s talent and ingenuity, according to Gary Marriott and Joel Bergeron, co-chairs of the Nova Awards’ organizing committee.

“This year’s slate of awards nominees and recipients really are in a class all their own,” said Marriott.
“They stand as a perfect example of why Timmins has built a global reputation as a centre for entrepreneurial excellence. Tonight’s recipients represent some of the best of the best, and it’s terrific that we’re able to recognize their achievements on such a grand scale.”

This perspective also helped to transform the McIntyre Arena for the evening’s gala celebration, which was based on the event’s theme of “We Are the World” in recognition of the export of Timmins products, knowledge and expertise across the globe. Images of local contributions to international projects were used as decor throughout the venue, which served to promote further conversation among attendees during the post-awards celebration.

“Timmins is renowned for its business talents, and when we talk about the wealth of resources in our region, we need to remember that also includes the amazing people we have here,” said Bergeron. “We sometimes lose sight of the full impact they have beyond our backyard, and we’re glad to have been able to have made that the focus of this important event.”

The recipients of the 2013 Nova Awards were carefully selected from more than 90 nominations by a committee of six independent community judges. As every year, the judges determine the 16 award recipients without any input, influence or oversight from the Chamber Board of Directors or staff, thereby ensuring the validity of the process and the results.

“For the last 11 years, the Nova Awards have been about showcasing Timmins businesses, and it’s a tradition we’re proud to have so successfully continued once again this year,” said Pultz. “The many award recipients and nominees really do represent some of the best of what we as a community have to offer, and we’re glad so many people have come out to help celebrate them.”

A gallery of photographs from the 2013 Nova Awards, spanning the finalists’ reception to the awards ceremony to the post-event celebration, will be made available on the Chamber’s Facebook page on April 12 at www.facebook.com/TimminsChamber

The recipients of the 2013 Nova Awards, and those who accepted them, were:

BMT Insurance & Financial Services
Business Contribution to the Community
(1-30 Employees)
Sponsored by BMT Insurance &
Financial Services

Timmins Honda
Ryan Taylor, owner
and general manager

Business Contribution to the Community (Over 31+ Employees)
Sponsored by
Porcupine Gold Mines –
Goldcorp Canada Inc.

Panels and Pipes Inc.
Jean-Paul Legault, owner

Service Excellence Award
Sponsored by Northern College

J&B Cycle & Marine Co. Ltd.
Rob Racine, owner

New Business (Under 2 Years)
Sponsored by
Timmins Economic Development Corp. / Business Enterprise Centre

Neo Laser Tag Inc.
Dan Daoust, owner

Marketing Innovation Achievement Sponsored by RBC Royal Bank

Guiho Saw Sales & Marine Ltd.
Clint Chartrand, sales manager
and dealer principal

Young Entrepreneur (Under 30)
Sponsored by The Venture Centre /
Le Centre de développement

Bodhi Tree Hot Yoga Studio
Jenny Wong, owner

CTV Television Business of the Year
(1-5 Employees)
Sponsored by CTV Television

Great White Electrical Services
Jeremy Wilson, owner

Scotiabank Business of the Year
(6-49 Employees)
Sponsored by Scotiabank

Pick of the Crop

Business of the Year (50+ Employees) Sponsored by Northern Credit Union

Imerys Talc
Mike Francoeur,
Canadian operations manager

Non-Profit Organization Award
Sponsored by The City of Timmins

Downtown Timmins BIA
Noella Rinaldo, executive director

Environmental Excellence Award
Sponsored by Union Gas

Porcupine Gold Mines
– Goldcorp Canada
Laszlo Gotz, environmental manager

De Beers Canada
Aboriginal Partnership Award
Sponsored by De Beers Canada – Victor Mine

Detour Gold Corporation
Rachel Pineault, vice-president, human resources and northern affairs

NorFab Metal and Machine
Best Place to Work Award
Sponsored by NorFab Metal and Machine

Logikal Code Inc.
Jason Perratt, owner

Apprenticeship Award
Sponsored by
Timmins Construction Association

Gorf Manufacturing/Contracting Ltd.

Mark Norkum Jr., general manager

NorthernTel Technology Award
Sponsored by NorthernTel

Haasen Farms Limited
Frank Haasen, owner

President’s Award
Sponsored by
Timmins Chamber of Commerce

Xstrata Copper Kidd Operations
Luc Brousseau,
human resources manager

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce
With over 800 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Policy and Communications Director
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Member of the Month April 2013: Porcupine Engineering Services Inc.

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 00:00:00 GMT

When a large international engineering firm left town in 2004, it left behind three ambitious and seasoned engineers who decided to strike out on their own as Porcupine Engineering Services Inc. (PES) rather than follow their employer.

“We could have stayed with them and moved south, but there’s no way I could have enjoyed the same lifestyle that I do here in Timmins,” said Brian Emblin, co-owner and the firm’s lead mechanical engineer. “We decided to stay and do our own thing.”

Determined to pursue the unique opportunities that Northern Ontario affords, Emblin formed PES with structural engineer Mario Colantonio and electrical engineer Frank O'Donnell later that year.

The multidisciplinary firm has since strived to provide innovative designs to its clients in booming and ever-changing heavy industrial sectors such as mining, forestry and power.

Creativity has since been top of mind for the firm, as its three founders have had to transition into their new roles of business owners after being employees of a large corporation.

“It’s not for everyone, but we’ve all really enjoyed having that extra level of control and taking a more personal approach to business,” said Emblin.

This shift has helped the firm to maintain its focus on providing top-quality service while building relationships with clients. This level of dedication rapidly earned them accolades from their peers, as they were named recipient of the New Business Award during the Timmins Chamber’s 2006 Nova Awards celebration.

The scope of the company’s work has since evolved and expanded, its customer base growing throughout Northern Ontario alongside its own status as an innovative and dependable company.

“When people didn’t know us that well, they entrusted us with smaller projects,” said Emblin. “Over time, we’ve built on that trust and developed a reputation as a business that can get things done.”

Above all, the firm's success is tied to creative solutions to challenges that are unique to the region.

“There’s not much new heavy industrial construction going on locally, so we specialize in helping older plants expand by merging new equipment into them. You really have to think outside the box with that kind of work. Our guys definitely come back to the office with their hands dirty.”

Like so many businesses across Northern Ontario, the firm has faced its share of challenges in its pursuit of success, including the 2008 economic downturn which forced them to cut their staff nearly in half. However, their ability and determination has allowed them a strong recovery as they diversify throughout the province and beyond.

In recent years, PES has done work in Guatemala and Burkina Faso, while its most recent success is having been awarded a detailed engineering contract for a graphite facility in the Mattawa area.

“Timmins has been excellent to us, and it’s been great to broaden our customer base and project capacity, as well as our geographical presence,” said Emblin.

This measured success led the firm to open a Sudbury office in 2011, and it currently employs 37 personnel between its two locations.

“We’re very pro-Timmins and more than 90% of our work is done in the region, so we’re always taking resumes.”

To help accommodate their continued growth, the company has plans to move beyond their long-time home above the South Porcupine post office. In the coming months, PES will be moving to 316 Spruce South, into the space formerly occupied by the Timmins Native Friendship Centre.

To learn more about Porcupine Engineering Services, visit them online at www.pes-inc.ca, stop by their current office at 200-81 Shamrock Ave. in South Porcupine, or call them at (705) 235-2110.

Click here to see the full-sized image.

Timmins Chamber applauds workforce support in 2013 federal budget

Thu, 21 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, March 21, 2013—Strong measures to enhance the Canadian labour market are among the reasons the 2013 federal budget is largely positive for the local business community, according to the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

The federal budget, as tabled on March 21 by Finance Minister Jim Flaherty, offers several opportunities for Timmins businesses, including:

• The creation of a $300-million Canada Job Grant, which allows businesses to match costs for employee skills training with the federal and provincial governments, at $15,000 or more per person;
• Apprenticeship improvements, including greater mobility between provinces;
• $241 million over five years to support employment opportunities for First Nations youth through the on-reserve Income Assistance Program;
• A two-year, $225-million extension of the Hiring Credit for Small Business;
• A two-year, $1.4-billion extension of the temporary capital cost allowance for manufacturers who invest in machinery and equipment;
• A two-year, $92-million extension for programs to enhance forestry innovation and market development support;
• A one-year extension of the 15-per-cent Mineral Exploration Tax Credit for flow-through share investors.

“As a whole, the 2013 federal budget offers some promising levels of support for Timmins-area businesses,” said Timmins Chamber Vice-President Phil Barton.
“With workforce challenges continuing to be one of our most significant local issues, we’re encouraged to note that the government has made some significant commitments to help address the problem. Businesses need the right people in the right jobs in order to succeed, and these measures are a positive step towards that goal.”

One of the budget items of particular interest to the Timmins Chamber and its 800+ members is the creation of the Canada Job Grant, which provides businesses with greater authority and broader options for training prospective or existing employees.

This will allow employers to upgrade skills by matching funding with the provincial and federal governments, at $15,000 or more per employee.

The budget also offers stronger support for building the national workforce. This includes a move to harmonize apprenticeship requirements across provinces and territories, allowing for greater mobility for such workers throughout the country. As many as 5,000 paid internships for post-secondary institutions will also be supported by a federal $70-million investment over three years.

First Nations training opportunities have also been proposed, with $241 million over five years to support employment opportunities for First Nations youth through the on-reserve Income Assistance Program.

Money has also been allocated to accelerating immigration claims, building upon other positive measures to help provide industry with much-needed employees, said Barton.

A series of extensions to existing, popular programs in the budget will also assist Timmins businesses, such as the two-year extension of the Hiring Credit for Small Business, which should help transition these positions into the workforce.

Manufacturers also stand to benefit from a two-year extension of the temporary capital cost allowance for manufacturers, which will allow for continued investment in machinery and equipment manufacturing.

Also of benefit to the region is an additional $92 million to enhance innovation and marketing programs for forestry companies, enhancing the $105 million committed in last year’s budget. In another crucial resource sector, a further one-year extension of the 15-per-cent Mineral Exploration Tax Credit should help to ensure that junior mineral exploration firms can continue to see incentives to invest in places like Timmins.

However, the continued elimination of tax credits for operating mines, a process that began in the 2012 federal budget, remains an ongoing disappointment for the Timmins Chamber.

“Though there are a few small points of concern, these measures directly address some of our region’s more pressing issues,” said Barton. “With specific supports for employment, small business, and investment in our primary industries, we look forward to working with our provincial and federal partners to ensuring these changes strengthen our business community, both in Timmins and beyond.”

This point of view is shared by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, which saw much to like in the 2013 federal budget, despite some disappointment in its approach to research and innovation funding.

Specifically, the organization applauded the federal government’s plan to balance the budget by 2015, an ambitious but important goal, according to Canadian Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Perrin Beatty.

“We think that’s going to be tough, but it’s essential,” said Beatty. “Much of our recent economic success is tied to our reputation as a prudent country which follows through on its fiscal plans.”

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce
With over 800 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Policy and Communications Director
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Tourism, housing among Chamber recommendations for city budget

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins, March 5, 2013—City spending should be directed towards properly planning for the future of tourism, housing and development while making the most of existing resources, according to the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.

These ideas formed the core of the organization’s annual presentation, made by Chamber President Art Pultz and its Municipal Affairs Committee Chair Phil Barton on March 4 in advance of the city’s approval of the municipal budget.

“Traditionally, the Chamber has argued that measured spending is acceptable when it is done with specific plans in mind, with an eye to the future and a sense as to how individual spending projects fit into the larger picture,” said Pultz.
“Although the sticker shock cannot be ignored, the development of master plans in tourism, culture and recreation – and of course, housing – are invaluable for this kind of measured, consistent approach.”

These overarching strategies are due to be developed this year as initiatives of the city’s Timmins 2020 plan, which the Chamber continues to support, said Pultz. This work will include an inventory of local housing, which will feed into a long-term plan for addressing the problems surrounding accommodations – something in which the Chamber has been deeply involved in recent years.

The Chamber also supports the ongoing efforts to provide a specific scope and direction to Tourism Timmins, which continues to reinvent itself following the recent sale of the Shania Twain Centre to Goldcorp.

“Given the need to refocus tourism spending in the wake of this development, the Chamber would ask that related funds be allocated to strengthening Timmins’ tourism product based on a factual awareness of market needs, local strengths, and fiscal responsibility,” said Pultz. “Investment in tourism is important for this community, a reality its businesses understand quite well, and so we would ask that these funds be spent in support of ideas driven by sound research and an overall plan.”

The presentation also reinforced that the city would prove to be an optimal partner for taking over management of the Tourism Information Centre, something which the Chamber has long operated for free in service to local residents and businesses. As the city continues to look for ways to revamp its tourism strategy in light of the sale of the Shania Twain Centre, its adoption of the Tourism Information Centre would allow municipal staff to directly offer the products it creates to the travel-minded public, said Pultz.

City staffing also stood as a budget priority for the Chamber. Given the proposed hires in tourism and development, the municipality should consider conducting a city-wide staffing audit to determine the full range of needs across all departments, said Pultz.

This is particularly crucial given the added budgetary pressures the city faces this year, though Pultz cautioned against raising commercial tax rates as an easy fix. Instead, revenue should be generated by collecting taxes already owed to the municipality by addressing the backlog of tax arrears, and by aggressively investigating and assessing illegal construction projects which would add to the local tax base.

Municipal revenues could also be enhanced in the long term by further expanding the Community Improvement Plan funding and scope, said Pultz. This program offers grants to support further private-sector investment, something which has already proven to bring about significant visual refreshing to Timmins’ downtown businesses. By expanding the program to include brownfields, the City should be able to further encourage development of derelict properties, said Pultz.

Every year, the Chamber’s presentation to council is assembled through an extensive process of consultation, with member input being provided through a wide variety of venues. This includes surveys, roundtable discussions, several Chamber committees, and numerous one-on-one interviews conducted by Chamber staff. The finished presentation represents the majority view as expressed by members throughout that consultation process.

The Chamber makes every effort to be as inclusive as possible of its members’ views so as best to represent their interests at all levels of government. Members who have business issues – municipal, provincial, or federal – that they would like to see addressed are encouraged to contact the Chamber.

For the full text of the Chamber’s presentation to council, click here.

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce
With over 800 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Policy and Communications Director
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Member of the Month March 2013: Le Taj Tandoori

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 00:00:00 GMT

With a customer base that’s growing as quickly as its reputation for quality Indian cuisine, Le Taj Tandoori stands as an example of how success can be found by pursuing your passion.

When co-owners Salina Nagi and her husband, Ali, moved to Timmins from Toronto in 2009, they were looking for a change and “for somewhere good to do business,” she said.

“We arrived thinking we would start up something like a gas bar, but as soon as we got hungry, we started missing Indian food.”

Rather than risk opening a brand new restaurant featuring all-Indian cuisine, the couple assumed ownership of D’eatery, a long-time staple of Timmins’ downtown food scene, and incorporated just one Indian dish into the menu.

“In our first year, people seemed a little scared of having a different culture brought into town, which is why we decided to just see how one dish would go,” said Nagi.

Fortunately, demand quickly rose for a broader range of Indian food, and before long, D’eatery was transformed into Le Taj Tandoori.

“We did it slow enough that people were able to see how much they actually like it,” said Nagi.

While most of the community quickly adjusted and enjoyed the change to the downtown landmark, one of the biggest challenges faced by the new owners included hesitation from some of D’eatery’s long-time customers. Out of respect for the historic clientele, the original restaurant’s full menu still remains in place, allowing for a full slate of Indian meals alongside traditional Canadian food, with vegetarian and vegan options to accommodate a wide range of appetites and taste buds.

“Some of D’eatery’s regular customers stopped coming because they didn’t realize that the D’eatery menu was still being offered, so we like to try to remind people of that,” said Nagi, “But we’ve been here four years now and every day we see new customers.”

This approach has proven to be an effective one, as easing the community into a new type of food helped the Nagis to build a client base that now lines up for their locally famous Indian cuisine. Le Taj Tandoori now has a wide and loyal following, and proudly stands as the best-rated restaurant in Timmins on the popular travel site tripadvisor.ca.

In response to their growing success, Le Taj Tandoori is adding to its staff of nine by hiring four new employees, including a chef that is coming directly from India to help revamp and refresh the Indian menu. Adjustments are also being made to their storefront, and hours are being expanded to include an early bird breakfast.
“Things are going well, so we’re also thinking about locations in Sudbury and North Bay,” said Nagi.

With this level of growth on the horizon, Salina and Ali are quick to thank all their customers for their support, including the Timmins Chamber of Commerce, and Chamber CAO Keitha Robson in particular, noting how Chamber membership has been a big help unto itself. The restaurant also catered to firefighters during last year’s demanding forest fire season.

In order to give back to the community that has welcomed them so warmly, the Nagis have sought to assist with any number of worthy programs, such as participating in a healthy hot lunch program at several local elementary schools, and donating food to local homeless shelters, including the Good Samaritan Inn.
“Our customers and the Chamber network are like part of our family now,” said Nagi.

To find out more about Le Taj Tandoori, please visit them at 119 Pine Street South, or call them at (705) 267-2330. They can also be found online at www.letajtandoori.com.

Click here to see the full-sized image.

Canadian Chamber network unveils top 10 Barriers to Competitiveness for 2013

Wed, 13 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Ottawa, February 13, 2013—The national skills shortage remains one of the biggest barriers to Canadian business competitiveness, according to a new report issued yesterday by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.

Released through the nationwide network of chambers of commerce, including the Timmins Chamber of Commerce, The Top 10 Barriers to Competitiveness for 2013 is an initiative undertaken last year to draw attention to the barriers that are holding back Canada’s progress. All levels of governments are being urged to swiftly act on these issues in order to increase Canada’s ability to compete globally.

This includes a renewed focus on fighting for action on the skills shortage, which stood as the Canadian Chamber network’s number one in issue in 2012, and which remains its primary focus in 2013. This will require that governments and businesses work collaboratively and aggressively in four key areas: upskilling, immigration policies, education-employment alignment, and Aboriginal education and workforce development.

“As Timmins businesses continue to face considerable workforce challenges, we must concur with the Canadian Chamber in its national call for action to be taken in addressing this mounting skills shortage,” said Art Pultz, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.
“Solutions to this growing problem will not be easy, and we join the national call for creative, collaborative efforts in helping to ensure that our businesses are able to employ the people they need.”

Addressing the Top 10 Barriers to Competitiveness will go a long way towards restoring Canada’s competitiveness, according to the Canadian Chamber. The Canadian Chamber network is calling on its membership, as well as governments, labour organizations, educators and others to tackle and overcome these barriers as “tolerating them is simply not an option.”

“The need for action is urgent,” said Canadian Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Perrin Beatty. “The standard of living of every Canadian depends on how well we respond to the challenge. We must identify and implement real, tangible solutions for breaking down the barriers to our competitiveness and for creating more opportunities and greater prosperity for Canadian businesses and families.”

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce
With over 800 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Policy and Communications Director
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
policy@timminschamber.on.ca

Nominations open for 2013 Nova Business Excellence Awards

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Nominations are now being accepted for the Timmins Chamber of Commerce’s 2013 Nova Business Excellence Awards, the region’s biggest celebration of entrepreneurial achievement.

Now in its 11th year, the Nova Awards recognize the best of Timmins’ business across 15 categories at a prestigious annual gala event to be held Thursday, April 11 at the McIntyre Arena. More than 600 people attended in 2012, and this year’s event promises to uphold its reputation as a unique and glamorous way to honour the business community, according to Gary Marriott and Joel Bergeron, co-chairs of the Nova Awards organizing committee.

“For more than a decade, the Nova Awards have been a very special way to shine a spotlight onto Timmins’ best and brightest entrepreneurs, who really are second to none,” said Marriott.
“To celebrate them, however, we need people to let us know through nominations, whether it’s from a client, a colleague, staff, family members, or the business owner themselves. If you know a business or organization that’s truly worthy of the special recognition of a Nova award, be sure to pick up a form and tell us what makes them stand out.”

Nominees are now being accepted for the following awards:

• BMT Insurance and Financial Services Business Contribution to Community
(1-30 employees) Award
• Business Contribution to Community (31+ employees) Award
• Service Excellence Award
• New Business (Under 2 years) Award
• Marketing Innovation Achievement Award
• Young Entrepreneur (Under 30) Award
• NorFab Metal and Machine Best Place to Work Award
• CTV Television Inc. Business of the Year (1-5 Employees) Award
• Scotiabank Business of the Year (6-49 Employees) Award
• Business of the Year (50+ Employees) Award
• Non-Profit Organization Award
• Environmental Excellence Award
• Construction Trades Employer Apprenticeship Award
• NorthernTel Technology Award
• De Beers Canada Aboriginal Partnership Award

This year’s Nova Awards will feature the theme of “We Are the World,” highlighting the knowledge, expertise, and products that are created in Timmins and carried across the globe. This time-tested international reputation for quality across a broad range of sectors and services will be on full display throughout the evening, as the McIntyre Arena will once again be transformed into a stylish and elegant setting.

“The people we have in Timmins really are world-class, and what better time than the Nova Awards to highlight that fact?” said Bergeron. “With the business community expected to be in full attendance, we’d like to take what makes our people famous globally, and for one night, celebrate that locally.”

Nomination packages will be made available online, or at the Chamber offices located at 76 McIntyre Road, Schumacher. Nominations will be accepted until February 28, 2013, and the finalists will be notified prior to March 8, 2013.

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For more information contact:
Nick Stewart
Policy and Communications Director
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
policy@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-1900

Member of the Month February 2013: Kamiskotia Snow Resort

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Upon becoming Resort Manager of Kamiskotia Snow Resort three years ago, Lorne Haveruk noticed that certain changes could help Timmins’ beloved winter sport destination to reach new heights.

“The fellow who ran things before had done it well for a very long time, but it needed new vision,” said Haveruk. “That’s what I brought here. The vision now is to continue to make Kamiskotia an affordable Northern Ontario mountain ski resort where people can come and play.”

With Haveruk’s expertise and input from board members, the resort’s customer base has grown from 290 members to more than 1,100, thanks to several initiatives that have allowed the resort to play a stronger role in the region’s recreation sector.

There are now more than 30,000 visits to Kamiskotia each winter, a number that continues to grow as word spreads that the hill is the place to ski in Ontario. Kamiskotia draws skiers and families from throughout northeastern Ontario, including Sudbury and North Bay, and from as far away as Toronto and Whitby.

This has been partly due to a change in the resort’s service pricing, which Haveruk launched following a close look at Kamiskotia’s books. With the support of the resort’s board of directors, more competitive pricing was put into place to help position it as an affordable destination for winter activities.

“Nothing against hockey, hockey is great, but I understand that getting a child started in hockey is quite expensive,” said Haveruk. “Getting somebody going in skiing is much more affordable now.”

This move has been further helped by additional efforts to make Kamiskotia an easier place for families to visit and enjoy. Shuttle buses are now available weekends and holidays, with special shuttles offered on Friday and Saturday nights to accommodate the new evening snow tubing and skiing.

The resort has been mindful of future generations, installing energy-efficient LED night lighting wherever possible, with continued upgrades on the horizon.

Along with new on-site lockers for gear and equipment storage, these measures have taken the hassle away from parents and have made a “huge difference,” said Haveruk.

“Now it’s easy to come and play at Kam.”

To capitalize on the rise in attendance, one run was added in 2011 with another two in 2012, meaning that all four sides of the mountain can now be skied upon. The resort has also been expanding its facilities to draw in people beyond downhill skiing, snowboarding, and tubing. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails have been groomed, and a large outdoor skating rink on the resort’s south side might become reality. The new south side sunset outdoor licensed deck is also expected to be a great draw once the weather warms.

“People can play outside, come in for a bite to eat, sit by the fire, eat at the sundeck BBQ on weekends and holidays and head out again for more fun once they have warmed up.”

Haveruk has been sure to honour Kamiskotia’s past by repurposing old equipment and keeping the public aware of its rich history, which dates back to the 1920s, a time when ski enthusiasts used to cross-country ski to the renowned mountain to enjoy the slopes before skiing back home.

“I want people to know that this isn’t a brand new ski area; it has a long history and is one of the only mountains in Ontario.”

Haveruk also noted that the close-knit nature of Timmins’ business community and within the Chamber membership has been a big help in exposure, support and marketing, making it easy to spread the word about all the new happenings at the hill.

“Chamber membership is definitely good for business with its many offerings, meetings, educational seminars and functions,” he said.

“Thanks to all the businesses and individuals in the community who have helped us stay operating, we've turned Kamiskotia into a sustainable business. We're a non-profit, so we really rely on that support to keep our doors open.”

While this winter’s weather hasn’t been entirely cooperative in providing natural snow for the hill, Haveruk, a seasoned skier who has skied all over the world, asserts that the weather in town is no indication of the conditions on the hill.

“I encourage everyone to check out the daily hill conditions on the website even when the weather seems bad. I’ve been skiing for 43 years and this is some of the best skiing I’ve found in Ontario. We’re redeveloping our offerings, so it’s a great time to come check us out.”

Kamiskotia Snow Resort is located at 5050 Kamiskotia Road in Timmins, Ontario. Visit them online for daily conditions, prices, and services at www.kamiskotia.com, or give them a call at (705) 268-9057.

Click here to see the full-sized image.

Ontario Chamber releases new economic agenda for the province

Wed, 30 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

TIMMINS, January 30, 2013 - The Ontario Business Confidence Index shows that most Ontario businesses are confident in their own outlook (72 percent) and are planning to expand over the next five years (60 percent). However, the same businesses are unsure about the overall direction of Ontario’s economy--41 percent express confidence.

The index is a survey of 2,386 businesses and was conducted as part of Emerging Stronger 2013, a business-driven economic agenda for Ontario released today by the Ontario Chamber of Commerce and the Timmins Chamber of Commerce, along with their research partner, the Mowat Centre at the University of Toronto.

Emerging Stronger 2013 is a transformational agenda aimed at accelerating Ontario’s economic growth. It identifies Ontario’s challenges and advantages, and sets out practical and detailed recommendations for government and business.

Some of its key recommendations include: enabling better access to capital for startups and small businesses through crowd funding; encouraging businesses to employ more Aboriginal people and people with disabilities; opening up more government services to private sector and not-for-profit delivery; utilizing Ontario’s large immigrant population to grow exports; and, allowing more employers to participate in training.

The agenda comes days after Kathleen Wynne was named Ontario’s next premier and is intended to provide a non-partisan platform that should appeal to all three parties.

“As many Timmins businesses continue to struggle with workforce challenges, we’re glad to see the issue featured prominently within Emerging Stronger 2013,” said Art Pultz, President of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce. “Provincial action on these and other recommendations will go a long way to helping businesses in our community and throughout Ontario.”

“The Ontario Chamber of Commerce has criss-crossed this province engaging and hearing from local chambers and their 60,000 members,” said Allan O'Dette, CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Commerce. “We are confident that Ontario has all the assets to prosper, but we need to act collectively, strategically, and with purpose."

“This Index is one of the largest surveys ever conducted of business opinion in Ontario,” according to Dave Scholz, Vice President of Leger Marketing, the pollster. "Business sentiment is very much 'glass half-full' in the province right now."

Among the survey findings are:

Ontario is falling behind on productivity: Only 10 percent of respondents believe their sector is a global leader in productivity.

Some sectors are much more confident than others: The financial services sector is the most confident in their own outlook (74 percent say their business will expand in the next 5 years).

Businesses are struggling to diversify their exports: 45 percent of Ontario businesses view China as the most critical market in the next 5-10 years. Yet only 1.4 percent of Ontario’s exports are bound for China.

Some regions are more confident than others: Greater Hamilton Area businesses are most likely to respond that the economy is heading in the right direction (48 percent), while Eastern Ontario businesses are the least likely (36 percent).

Click here to read Emerging Stronger 2013.

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For further information, contact:

Neville McGuire
Communications Manager, Ontario Chamber of Commerce
nevillemcguire@occ.on.ca
(416) 482-5222 ext. 2140

Member of the Month January 2013: Soucie Salo Safety (Timmins) Inc.

Tue, 01 Jan 2013 00:00:00 GMT

When loved ones go to work every day, it’s important to know that they’ll be safe on the job with the proper equipment and training.

By providing both, the staff and owners of Soucie Salo Safety (Timmins) are keenly aware of the role that a safe workplace plays in every aspect of a person’s life.

“When you’re laid up, you have less time with your family,” said co-owner Helene Poirier.
“When a worker gets hurt, the whole family gets hurt.”

Being able to help to prevent these kinds of costly and draining workplace injuries played a big part in Poirier’s decision to operate this still-young company, she said.

Born and raised in the Timmins area, Helene and her husband Ray Poirier always wanted to own a business. When the opportunity came along to partner locally with the Sudbury-based Soucie Salo Safety, “it was a perfect fit,” said Poirier.

With Helene’s background as an HR/operations manager and a health and safety professional, and Ray’s experience as an industrial sales specialist, the pair were well positioned to take a leap into the business of owning a business. With this, the two founded Soucie Salo Safety (Timmins) in 2010.

To help provide excellent customer service, the store carries a large amount of inventory. As such, customers don’t have to wait on a special product to be ordered in, and can have all of their safety needs filled at this one-stop shop.

In order to enhance the customer’s experience, Soucie Salo Safety employees undergo extensive training to help them become health and safety professionals. Having a knowledgeable staff is key, said Poirier, meaning that each employee learns the legislated safety requirements as well as the ins and outs of each product on the shelf.

“They aren’t only sales clerks, they’re safety specialists. We offer our employees not only a job, but an education.”

With a staff of just seven, Poirier acknowledged that finding the time to provide this heightened level of training can be a challenge. However, having a team well versed in how each product is best used has had a tangible effect on Soucie Salo Safety (Timmins)’s business success.

The value in having such a knowledgeable staff is especially strong in the customer service industry. Customers notice and appreciate the level of service and expertise they are met with each time they stop by the store, said Poirier.

The company’s focus on education is one it also extends to its customers and clients. The company offers a full gamut of workshops, run by certified trainers, to which employers can send their employees. Training and certification courses offered through Soucie Salo include: fall protection, WHMIS, CPR/First Aid, safety performance and leadership, and sprain and strain prevention.

The company also offers legislative compliance services to help businesses ensure they are adhering to occupational health and safety regulations at all times. This involves a wide range of technical services, ranging from the development of specific safety programs, to training in fall arrest equipment and procedures.

Through these efforts, the specialized safety store has wasted no time in making a name for itself through above-and-beyond customer service, a firm commitment to safety education, and a wide selection of stock fit for any and every worker, regardless of industry.

“Everybody works somewhere, and we try to find ways to keep everyone safe.”

To learn more about Soucie Salo Safety (Timmins), call them at (705) 360-7233, visit them in person at 993 Riverside Drive, or visit them online at www.souciesalosafety.com.

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Member of the Month December 2012: Clearlogic Consulting Professionals

Sat, 01 Dec 2012 00:00:00 GMT

With an eye for excellence and a personal investment in the success of Northern Ontario, Clearlogic Consulting Professionals is dedicated to giving the region’s communities and organizations a leg up.

“Timmins is a great community,” said Ron Leduc, co-owner of Clearlogic. “There are good people here, and there is significant opportunity.”

Though seemingly simple, Clearlogic’s mission to help organizations improve their performance is one that comes with a hefty workload. It involves extensive research and consultations to identify an organization’s competitive advantages, and then defining and recommending those projects that forecast the best outcome for the organization.

This work is led by a small team of consultants– Leduc, Maggie Matear, and Andrea Griener – whose collective expertise in a wide array of fields allows for a complete, holistic approach to an organization’s health, said Leduc.

Combined with their individual experience in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors, their broad range of professional backgrounds makes for an equally varied menu of services. This includes strategic planning, financial management, project management, training and facilitation, as well as marketing and branding, to name but a few.

“We really enjoy helping an organization reach their full potential,” said Leduc.
Having been based out of Timmins since its establishment in 2000, the Clearlogic team is fully aware of the many challenges of being located in the North, including regional obstacles in marketing and personnel recruitment, said Leduc. By encountering and dealing with these issues themselves, they have a built-in advantage when addressing their main client base throughout Northern Ontario, which continues to grow and expand.

This growth has allowed Clearlogic to hire three new employees in the past year, all of them locals. One of their new hires was a young person about to move away from Timmins for work. Clearlogic believes that there are good people to hire locally: they just need to be found and their continued professional growth fostered.

“Timmins has a wealth of expertise, and our challenge is making people aware of that expertise and of how we can assist them. We’ve got some world-class stuff here.”

This philosophy has also helped Clearlogic in its work with Northern communities, including the Town of Marathon and City of Timmins. In their work with these organizations, Clearlogic helped identify local expertise and develop strategies to capitalize on community strengths.

This enthusiasm for the local community has proven a major advantage for Clearlogic, which has been hired by the City of Timmins to coordinate the implementation of the Timmins 2020 strategic plan.

With so many different groups rallying behind Timmins 2020, whether in dollars or skills, Leduc describes the project as not just a city initiative, but a community initiative. Timmins 2020 has quickly broken free of the scepticism that sometimes surrounds such projects, and has become a rallying point for the city, its business, and its residents.

“The sentiment around any planning initiative tends to be that we’ll do a plan and stick it on a shelf. This is clearly not that. Everybody is participating in their own way.”

Clearlogic sets itself apart by developing plans that are not only based on sound research and stakeholder feedback, but that are also practical to implement. Their team understands that, in order to keep a plan off the shelf, an organization needs identify their human, technical and financial resources, and ensure the plan is viable. Clearlogic develops strategies that work within each client’s means, helping to ensure their success. It’s all part of the Clearlogic customer service experience.

Clearlogic Consulting Professionals is located at 670 Airport Road, Suite 202 in Timmins.
For more information on Clearlogic and the services they provide, click here.
Stay updated on the Timmins 2020 projects by visiting the Timmins 2020 website here.

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Member of the Month November 2012: Timmins Native Friendship Centre

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 00:00:00 GMT

When Veronica Nicholson began as the executive director of the Timmins Native Friendship Centre (TNFC) eight years ago, it had a heavy debt load and nine programs.

Today, the Centre is debt-free and growing rapidly, with a new location opening next spring and a three-fold increase in its service offerings, which range from health and education to daycare and self-esteem building.

“We say that we’re a one-stop shopping place where you can get the whole circle of life,” said Nicholson.

It’s been a decade of strength for the TNFC, which now serves nearly 18,000 people every year from its locations on Spruce Street South and Elm Street South.
With a positive attitude and an eye on providing much-needed services, Nicholson and the Centre’s Board of Directors have also worked diligently to expand their range of programs. By 2008, they increased their programs to 22, a significant increase from just four years prior. As that number has continued to grow to its current total of 30 and with the addition of a daycare, staffing levels have also risen, with 39 employees now in place at the TNFC.

The centre’s size and scope are a far cry from its humble origins in 1974, when it was first established as a gathering place for tea and talk, and to provide a welcoming environment for First Nations students arriving to Timmins to attend school.

As the centre grew, it began to offer various community programs, despite a lack of government funding for much of the first 10 years.
The funding challenge has remained an obstacle that the TNFC has continued to overcome year after year, and like many non-profit organizations, it is something the centre still faces today.

When it comes to coping with budgetary difficulties, Nicholson notes that “partnership is key,” acknowledging the support of the provincial government to their activities. Even today, the Centre must still raise $22 for every dollar of funding it receives in order to keep its doors open.

“That’s the nature of our survival, and if it’s not there you run the risk of a huge debt load, again. You have a responsibility to grow this into that.”

With her background in community economic development, Nicholson has focused her energies on helping to resolve those issues while implementing a strategic plan, committing to give the Centre and the community some ownership of their progress. Initially met with resistance and scepticism, the plan has had a tremendous effect on the TNFC’s growth and community involvement.

It’s been so effective that the TNFC’s resulting massive growth has led to its acquisition of the former Flora MacDonald Public School, which they are renovating as part of their “Under One Roof” project. Located on Kirby Street, this new location will replace the TNFC’s two current locations.

“We didn’t want to limit ourselves due to physical space, because the programs are so valuable to the community.”

Due to open in early 2013, the new location will provide the TNFC with an additional 20,000 square feet, allowing its impressive momentum to continue. As a sign of the organization’s ambitions, every space in the new building is already spoken for, said Nicholson.

The facility’s gymnasium will double as a 150-person capacity conference centre, and the surrounding 2.5 acres of land will prove integral to filling in any gaps in existing programs and to the creation of new ones.

This new facility will help the TNFC to provide its services, which unbeknownst to many, are available to all members of the community, whether Aboriginal or non-Aboriginal. Respect and quality of life is the order of the day at TNFC, as they make it a priority to create a culturally safe environment, regardless of the cultural beliefs of who comes through their doors.

In addition to providing social assistance to anyone in need, the TNFC promotes positive Aboriginal images, self-respect and expression through a variety of culturally appropriate program activities. Youth programs are central to the TNFC’s programs, and those programs have a clear focus on knowledge and guidance for healthy decisions.

“Our mandate has not changed, it has always remained the same: to provide urban Aboriginal people with options for a good way of life.”

This philosophy, along with its dedication to the community, has earned the TNFC considerable recognition from its peers. Most recently, it was honoured at the Chamber’s 2012 Nova Awards as Non-Profit Organization of the Year, following two consecutive awards as the Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centres’ Model Friendship Centre in 2010 and 2011.

“I work at the best place and I still get excited to come to work,” said Nicholson. “We’re sitting in a good place for future growth.”

To find out more, The Timmins Native Friendship Centre can be found online here, and their head office is currently located at 316 Spruce Street South. They can be contacted by phone at (705) 268-6262 or by email at reception@tnfc.ca.

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Timmins one of Ontario's Top 10 most entrepreneurial cities: report

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Timmins’ rise on the national list as an entrepreneurial hotspot was the result of increases across the survey’s 14 indicator categories. Areas where Timmins stood out include the diversity of local industry, a rise in business start-ups, and the fact that self-employment accounts for 5.97 percent of the city’s total employment numbers.

These are strong figures that speak to the many advantages of doing business in Timmins, according to Timmins Mayor Tom Laughren.

"The City of Timmins is changing: the face, the economic outlook, the competitive global environment in which we live all present more opportunities than we have ever seen,” said Laughren.
“Timmins has not been affected by the global economic challenges that have plagued many other North American economies. Ours continues to be robust like never before and is of interest to many entrepreneurs who are looking for an investment-friendly community with a prosperous future."

Timmins also scored well in questions on quality of life, and in local expectations of stronger financial performance in the coming year. The survey also highlights Timmins businesses’ intentions to hire more full-time staff, something that’s reflected in the growing strength of the business community, according to Timmins Chamber of Commerce President Art Pultz.

“These rankings show that this city creates and attracts some of the most innovative and dedicated business minds in the world,” said Pultz. “Our membership is made up of some truly remarkable entrepreneurs, many of which have seen steady growth in recent months and years. It’s a testament to the unique qualities of our people and our city that Timmins is being recognized as one of the nation’s most vibrant business communities.”

Data used in this survey was gathered from Statistics Canada sources, as well responses from CFIB’s membership across Canada.

The Financial Post report can be viewed here. To view the CFIB survey, including the full rankings and source data, please click here.

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For more information contact:
Guy Lamarche
Manager – Tourism, Events and Communications
City of Timmins
guy.lamarche@timmins.ca | (705) 360-2600 xt. 2404

or

Nick Stewart
Policy and Communications Director
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
policy@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-1900

New Residents Guide to help Timmins newcomers

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

From sports clubs to school boards, everything newcomers to Timmins need to know about settling into the community is now available in a free, easy-to-use guide.

Created in partnership between the Timmins Economic Development Corporation’s Employer Council and the Timmins Chamber of Commerce, the New Residents Guide features 52 pages packed with information on how to make the most of living in Timmins.

Starting with information helpful for moving in, such as contact numbers for real estate companies as well as hydro and telephone services, the guide goes on to outline local institutions for health care, financial services, and education. Once settled, new residents can then make use of the sections outlining the city’s many sports organizations, community groups, cultural offerings, as well as restaurants and entertainment venues.

The New Residents Guide also features information useful for employment, whether it’s finding a job in the area, or starting a new business with the help of local organizations. All told, this document contains reams of information helpful for all aspects of Timmins life, according to local officials.

“We hope that new and potential residents will see the Guide almost as a kind of operating manual for their new community, giving them an overview of Timmins features and benefits and how to access them,” said Maggie Matear, Vice Chair of the Timmins Economic Development Corporation (TEDC). “It also achieves one of the objectives in the Timmins 2020 Strategic Plan, which was to develop tools that support employee recruitment and make it easier to retain new residents.”

By offering more ways for new residents to integrate into the community, the New Residents Guide is another important solution for retaining employees, said Timmins Chamber President Art Pultz.

“At a time where our business community is eager to grow and hire new staff, we’re pleased to help provide an important tool to give these many newcomers a real sense of the many great things available to them in Timmins,” said Pultz. “Telling people what our city has to offer is crucial for helping them to see Timmins as a place to live, stay, raise a family, and to really make this community their own.”

The idea for a modernized, expansive New Residents Guide began with the Employer Council, which highlighted the need for a document for employers to use as a tool to attract employees, and as a settlement document to assist people with finding out what Timmins is all about. As an organization dedicated to improving the local business climate, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce was soon asked to assist in the research and development of the project.

The Employer Council was established by the TEDC in Fall 2011 to bring local employers together to collectively develop employer-driven strategies designed to reduce barriers, create understanding, and build capacity to address their current and future labour shortages. The Employer Council engages employers and key stakeholders proactively and strategically to promote the integration of skilled newcomers into the local labour market.

Copies of the New Residents Guide can be acquired online at the homepage for the Timmins Chamber of Commerce, at www.timminschamber.on.ca, at the Immigration Timmins website at www.immigrationtimmins.ca, as well as the TEDC homepage at www.timminsedc.com.

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For more information contact:

Cathy Ellis
Director of Community Economic Development
Timmins Economic Development Corporation
cathy.ellis@timmins.ca | (705) 360-2656

Nick Stewart
Policy and Communications Director
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
policy@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-1900

Member of the Month October 2012: Hygiene by Claire Quesnel

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As you settle into some warm slippers, a cozy blanket, and a spot by the fireplace, it can be easy to forget that you’re not at a spa, but at Hygiene by Claire Quesnel, an office dedicated to dental hygiene.

It’s this focus on creating a new concept with its relaxed, quiet, and stress-free environment that has helped to make this innovative, still-young business a success.
“There is no drilling, no suction, no needles, which is a huge relief right off the bat for many people,” said owner Claire Quesnel, who celebrates her business’ two-year anniversary in October.

“I hear a lot about how people are glad to come here, even though they’re deathly afraid of going to see the dentist. We really put a lot of emphasis on making our clients comfortable, from the moment they walk in until the moment they leave, all to make sure they go out with a smile on their face.”

Proper oral care is a crucial component of an overall healthy life, and can help stave off any number of problems such as heart disease and diabetes, making Quesnel’s work an important aspect of a balanced lifestyle. This is not only personally rewarding for her, she said, but also reduces clients’ need for dental work later on.

“And it’s true: if you take care of your teeth, you do all your prevention and homework, and some teamwork with your hygienist, you’ll do well.”

Helping people develop and maintain proper oral hygiene is something for which Quesnel has an obvious passion, a love she cultivated for 21 years as she worked for renowned local dentist, Dr. Jim Davis. When he retired, however, Quesnel was left to wonder about her career options in a city where opportunities for dental hygienists were few and far between.

Determined to stay in her home community of Timmins, where her family had set deep roots, Quesnel decided to take a chance and cast out on her own in 2010.

Taking advantage of the recent provincial legislation allowing dental hygienists to provide care without the presence of a dentist, Quesnel set up shop in a central, fully accessible second-story office overlooking Algonquin Boulevard. She put into place her spa concept with an eye on client comfort and preventative care, and began to offer dental cleaning and whitenings, custom mouthguards, oral assessments, and more.

This was no easy feat for a first-time entrepreneur, with many considerable hurdles to overcome, including the many logistical and financial concerns that come with establishing a new business. In particular, the equipment involved in dental hygiene is particularly expensive, and represented significant start-up costs.

More unnerving for Quesnel, however, was the anxiety surrounding the simplest and most fundamental question: “Is this even going to work?”

The answer has been a resounding “yes,” as the move has clearly paid off, with Hygiene by Claire Quesnel having doubled its client list over the past year. As prominent local dentists continue to retire and residents continue to seek alternative choices for their oral health care, more and more clients have turned to her services – including many of Dr. Davis’ former clients, who followed Quesnel to her new practice.

While word of mouth has contributed greatly to her success, Quesnel also attributes her success to her incredible teamwork with enthusiastic full-time staffer Coraly Curley, who’s much more than the business’ office administrator. As a registered dental hygienist hoping to one day ply her trade, Curley is also fully knowledgeable about the finer points of oral hygiene, and can address client questions with ease.

Her expertise has also allowed her to develop marketing materials and strategies for the business, which have also been used to great effect.

Together, their work is focused on one thing: providing high-quality service. Careful scheduling ensures that clients experience little to no wait time, and thanks to Quesnel’s bilingualism, they can often be taken care of in the language of their choice.

“We’ve even had people who can’t speak English come in, and we’ve worked to accommodate them by typing everything out in their language, which has helped to make them feel welcome and comforted to know that they can still get the service they deserve,” said Curley.

In return, Quesnel has been blessed with what she calls “the best clients in the world,” making it seem as though their visits to her business’ cozy, comfortable office are instead friends stopping by her house.

“It’s busy, busy, busy, but we love every minute of it.”

To learn more about Hygiene by Claire Quesnel, please visit them in Timmins at 11 Rea Street North, Suite 200; call them at (705) 267-2727; or visit them online at www.ifloss4u.com

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Member of the Month September 2012: Northern Windows & Doors

Sat, 01 Sep 2012 00:00:00 GMT

When opportunity knocked for budding entrepreneurs José Gadoury and Mark Duquette two years ago, they opened the door – and then bought it.

After the previous owner of the Timmins-based Northern Windows & Doors mentioned an interest in selling the business in 2010, the two saw a chance to make use of their respective skills to become first-time entrepreneurs.

Gadoury and Duquette soon became its new owners; since then, the business has flourished, growing from two employees to eight as it offers sales and installation of windows, doors, window treatments, three season sunrooms and siding around Timmins and points beyond.

“We knew we could take this business to another level, and to do that, we’ve added more products and focused on providing phenomenal customer service,” said Gadoury.
“As well, it was important for us to have a locally owned and family-run company. We want to do something where we can be successfully as a family and grow it and give back to our community at the same time.”

Since purchasing the business, the two have rapidly put their own stamp on Northern Windows & Doors, using Gadoury’s history in business management and marketing alongside Duquette’s skills in construction and solution-based selling to build and grow their client base while tapping into customer needs.

It’s an approach that allowed them to double their revenues in their second year, and customer interest has continued to rise to the point where their order book is now packed as much as two months in advance.

According to Gadoury, part of that success has come not only from the endlessly positive word of mouth, but also from an expansion of the business’ offerings, which now includes high quality three-season sunrooms, as well as window treatments such as interior blinds and shutters.

It’s not something that’s come easy, however, as these entrepreneurs have put a lot of hard work into building their new business, and in learning what it means to be at the helm.

This has meant reaching out to many of the savvy business minds in the community for guidance and advice as they sought to learn some of the finer points of running their own company. Conversations held with other owners at networking events and Chamber get-togethers has provided them with insight that has proven invaluable, said Gadoury.

Considerable efforts have also been put into developing successful, creative advertising – courtesy of Gadoury’s extensive marketing background – as well as a staff that can provide terrific client-focused service.

“We wouldn’t be able to do it without our phenomenal team,” said Gadoury. “They are very customer-oriented, fully bilingual, and they are always available when you need them. They truly are the backbone of Northern Windows & Doors.”

Employee diligence has paid off in other ways as well. In 2011, Northern Windows & Doors was awarded the Safety Achievement Award from the Timmins Construction Association in recognition of their focus on accident prevention through a safe working environment.

Adding to that staff is becoming increasingly difficult however, as Northern Windows & Doors faces the same problem as many other Timmins businesses in finding more skilled workers. To help address the local shortage, Gadoury and Duquette have partnered with Collège Boréal by providing building material samples, while helping to train future technicians through a partnership with Job Connect.

They’ve been equally quick to give back to other areas the community, with Northern Windows & Doors donating more than $20,000 to local efforts such as the John P. Larche Annual Golf Tournament, the O’Gorman High School Annual Auction, Firefighters’ Charity Hockey Tournaments, Diabetes Association, Boston Pizza “Road Hockey to Conquer Cancer” as well as various children’s hockey events.

For more information on Northern Windows & Doors, visit them at 870 Algonquin Blvd. E (Schumacher Hwy), online at www.northernwindowsanddoors.ca, or call them at (705) 268-2111.

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Timmins Chamber to offer social media workshop series

Fri, 24 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

With the rise of social media, more and more companies are looking to make sense of this new technological landscape – and the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is helping local businesses to do just that.

In response to growing demand, the Chamber is partnering with the Business Enterprise Centre to host a new workshop series, Social Media Mondays, beginning Sept. 10, 2012.
For eight weeks, participants will meet every Monday from 1:30 p.m. – 3 p.m. for hands-on courses on how to develop a social media plan for their business, and how to successfully carry out that plan.

“Social media is becoming such a major force in the business world, which is still coming to grips with those opportunities,” said Christine Leclair, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.
“This has sparked tremendous interest from our members, who continue to request more and more information and tools to help them succeed in this new environment. Although we’ve hosted a few social media training sessions in the past, this really marks the first time we’re offering a workshop series that takes them from first steps and into an incredibly in-depth look at what’s available and specifically how it can work for their business.”

This short course will be taught by Jason Perratt, owner of Logikal Code, a Timmins-based full-service website design and marketing company. Throughout the eight-week run, Perratt will provide take-home advice while also allowing time for participants to come back with detailed questions on what they learned in previous weeks.
Each workshop will build on the previous one, giving attendees what they need to benefit their business in obvious and practical ways.

“What we’ve found with our previous one-off workshops is while they’ve been great for setting up a basic level of knowledge, but many businesses are looking for ways to really build that next level of social media expertise,” said Leclair. “This new eight-week format will help to build that important set of skills while allowing them to fill in whatever gaps they may discover along the way.”

The course costs $199 plus HST for Chamber members, or $250 plus HST for future members. For more information, or to register, contact Carmen Swartz, the Chamber’s member development and events specialist, at (705) 360-1900, or info@timminschamber.on.ca

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For more information contact:
Nick Stewart
Policy and Communications Director
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
policy@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-1900

Member of the Month August 2012: Porcupine Dante Club

Wed, 01 Aug 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The chandeliers are hanging, the floors are installed, and the smiles are ear to ear.

Just in time for its 60th anniversary, the Porcupine Dante Club has completed a five-year $600,000 renovation project to bring the cultural club’s facilities into a new era of class and competitiveness, and its officials couldn’t be happier.

“We’re very proud of the fact that all of this is from volunteers, hard work, and labour, and it’s an unbelievable feat,” said Sam Rizzuto, general manager of the Dante Club.
“The people that started it would be in wonderment today to see what’s happened to it: we’ve taken it from a point where the ladies were coming out of the kitchen to help out with weddings, to what’s now a multimillion-dollar business. We are a force to be reckoned with in this area, for sure.”

As the first major renovations since adding two halls and a lounge in 1974, these changes will allow the Dante Club to enhance its status beyond an Italian cultural club and eternally popular host of countless social events.

With the installation of state-of-the-art videoconferencing systems and its growing staff of 30, the facilities are now fully ready to compete for a full range of event-hosting opportunities, including business meetings and conventions, says Rizzuto.

The move has already paid off: bookings have started to roll in for events as much as two years in advance.

“We’re not scared now if anybody opens up. We’re ready and prepared for the next five, 10 years for sure.”

This significant growth is a far cry from the club’s humble origins six decades previous, when it was established as a gathering place and cultural touchstone for the growing number of Italian folk moving into Timmins.

“There was a huge population of Italians here at that time, and not knowing how to speak English that well, they needed a place to congregate, to play bocce, to play cards, or just to get together and have a drink and kibbitz about the war years and everything else,” said Vince Purificati, Dante Club treasurer. “That’s how things got started, and just continued through the generations, and here we are 60 years later, still going strong.”

These days, the Dante Club still holds strong in its local role in maintaining the Italian culture, something it upholds through courses and events for its paid membership, which is also open to non-Italians.

The changing times are not without their challenges, however. With less immigration flowing into Northern Ontario, there are less people of Italian descent making their way into the Dante Club.

Luckily, the 60th anniversary celebrations have put a major spotlight on their efforts, which in turn have shown the younger generations the immense value of the club, said Purificati.

What’s more, because it is run as a club without having to answer to owners or shareholders, its costs are kept low. This means that the money is poured not only back into the club but also the community through the Canadian Diabetes Association, the Canadian Cancer Society, MADD Canada, local sports teams, scholarships at local schools, and much more.

This deep community involvement has also helped to draw attention to their handmade food – something in which officials take tremendous pride, as it has long stood as a symbol of the Dante Club’s incredibly broad public appeal.

Starting every morning with the basic ingredients like flour and eggs, the kitchen works to produce its own pasta, meatballs, lasagna and much, much more. It’s a tradition that’s carried on for the club’s full 60 years, and something on which it has built a sterling reputation as one of the greatest meals in town.

This status was strengthened years ago when a separate dining area was established in the club as an outlet for the public to test and taste the Dante Club’s menu, and to allow kitchen staff to work some additional hours. Its popularity was such that it was soon transformed into a full-blown restaurant, offering lunch and supper by reservation only on Thursdays and Fridays.

While sheer demand would allow for the restaurant to be open more frequently, the club’s hectic banquet business keeps the schedule from opening up further.

The public will soon have another way of accessing this unique culinary jewel, however, as the Dante Club will be offering an external catering service – something that should delight anyone who’s ever tucked into a plate of their fantastic food.

To help with this and to bring additional sophistication to their menu, two new chefs have been added to the kitchen, something which stands to bring their offerings to even greater heights.

“In the past, we had beautiful Italian ladies who were hard workers, but they were limited to what they did, though they were really good at what they could do,” said Rizzuto. “Now we have chefs, and not only do they have the skills that the ladies taught them, but they also have a vast expertise of their own that will greatly expand what we can do. It’s an exciting time.”

For more information on the Porcupine Dante Club, please call them at (705) 264-3185, or visit them at 162 Cedar Street South.

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Timmins Chamber of Commerce announces 2012-2013 Board of Directors

Mon, 23 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The last of the votes have been counted, and the members of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce have officially elected six businesspeople to represent them at the heart of city’s largest business organization.

Coming from a range of business sectors and backgrounds, these six individuals will now sit on the Chamber’s 21-member board, and will help provide direction and guidance to its advocacy and member service efforts through the coming Chamber year.

They will be officially sworn in during the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting, due to be held at the Timmins Days Inn on Sept. 19.

“Once again, there is a terrific amount of expertise and experience at the core of this year’s Board of Directors, and I’m more than pleased to be working alongside them,” said Art Pultz, incoming president for the 2012-2013 Chamber year.
“This is a truly motivated and passionate group, and Chamber members should rest assured that their board representatives will work hard over the coming year to ensure that Timmins is a great place to do business.”

The new additions to the Board include Ginette Nakashoji, partner at Fuller Jenks Landau; Christine Bender, campus manager, Northern College; Jason Perratt, owner, Logikal Code; Andrea Griener, partner, Clearlogic Consulting Professionals; and Roland Magnan, director of operations – Ontario and Quebec, Eastlink.

Having served on the board last year, Timmins Family YMCA Executive Director Wayne Bozzer was also elected to return on the 2012-13 board.

Electronic and print ballots were sent out to each of the Chamber’s 1,320 eligible voting members, who had one month to place their vote for their board representation. Each board member serves a two-year term, after which they can apply for re-election, for a maximum of three terms.

The following is the full list of members of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce’s 2012-2013 Board of Directors:

President	Company
Art Pultz	Rogers Communications Inc. (Q92 / EZ Rock)
Past President	Company
Christine Leclair	Leclair Planning Consultancy
Treasurer	Company
Rick Briand	BDC
Board Members	Company
Alan Thorne	Tembec
Andrea Griener	Clearlogic Consulting Professionals
Bill McMillan	Porcupine Gold Mines – Goldcorp Canada Ltd.
Christine Bender	Northern College
Claude J. Gagnon	Claude J. Gagnon Professional Photography
David Foster	Riopelle Griener Professional Corporation
Ginette Nakashoji	Fuller Jenks Landau
Jason Laneville	CTV Television
Jason Perratt	Logikal Code
John Labine	Lake Shore Gold Corp.
Kurt Bigeau	Sun Life Financial
Peter Murray	Ontario Power Generation
Phil Barton	Lucid Networks
Roland Magnan	Eastlink
Shannin Metatawabin	De Beers Canada
Terry DiTullio	NorFab Metal and Machine
Tony Leggett	Xstrata Copper
Wayne Bozzer	Timmins Family YMCA

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About the Timmins Chamber of Commerce
With over 800 members, the Timmins Chamber of Commerce is one of the largest accredited chambers of commerce with distinction in northeastern Ontario. As the “Voice of Business in Timmins” since 1949, our advocacy and policy initiatives focus on ensuring a positive business climate in the City of Timmins.

Contact:
Nick Stewart
Policy and Communications Director
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
(705) 360-1900
pcdirector@timminschamber.on.ca

Member of the Month July 2012: Perfect Settings

Sun, 01 Jul 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Fun is something Perfect Settings takes very seriously.

Whether it’s working on a dressed-to-the-nines party for 650 or a quiet family get-together, this decor business led by energetic entrepreneur Estelle Demers is intent on ensuring that every event is a memorable one.

“It’s something you can’t help but enjoy doing,” said Demers.
“Just knowing that someone’s going to be happy because of what we do makes it all worthwhile.”

Her current level of success wasn’t something she could have predicted 12 years ago when she first took the reins of her current home-based business.

Having spent several years in payroll and office administration before becoming a stay-at-home mom, Demers wanted to get back into the workforce, but only with a job that challenged her while letting her express her creativity.
When the opportunity arose to buy out an existing decor business, all it took was one day on the job to see that it was exactly what she’d been looking for.

With the tireless support of her family, she’s since grown the business from a solo affair to an on-call staff of 12, taking it from a seasonal hobby to a full-time, year-round business. Her client base has also grown beyond Timmins to events throughout the region, including places as North Bay, Iroquois Falls, Matheson, and even Moosonee.

This continuous growth has also created a never-ending need to expand and change her inventory to ensure that partygoers will not see the same setup twice.

What once fit in an 8-by-10-foot space 12 years ago has since spilled over into ever-growing areas around her home. Her inventory now fills a storage unit, a shed, a sea container and a garage, and that doesn’t include whatever is being laundered or in use at events at any given point.
This kind of space is needed to house more than 1,500 chair covers, “thousands and thousands of feet” of material, as well as table settings and much, much more.

This dedication to keeping things fresh and appealing for her clientele has helped to keep her incredibly busy, meaning that few people have their pulse on what’s happening in Timmins quite like Demers.

In fact, forget about construction statistics or job growth reports: the true health of Timmins’ economy can be measured in events, according to Demers.
As she quite literally sets the stage for countless events, she scoffs whenever she overhears someone complain that there’s never much going on around town.

“You can talk about the downturn in the economy, but people are still throwing big parties, companies are still looking to recognize their employees,” said Demers. “People still know how to celebrate.”

One recent celebration that Demers looks on with particular pride is Porter Airlines’ much-talked-about “grand opening” event held at the Timmins Days Inn in January. With a scant nine days to prepare, Demers and her team were able to transform the hotel’s ballroom into a relaxed, atmospheric throwback to a different time, complete with a hazy blue-and-white theme matching the company’s official colours.

So stunning was this transformation that people have commented to Demers about the fine work some “Toronto professional decorating company” must have done – something she quickly clarifies with an interruption and a chuckle.

This level of quality has been on display throughout numerous other high-profile events in which Perfect Settings has been involved, seen most recently in the Porcupine Dante Club’s 60th-anniversary celebration, as well as the Downtown BIA’s Sass in the City.

She’s equally proud of her involvement in various volunteer events, to which she lends her creative expertise. Over the years, this has included providing event advice to the likes of the Canadian Diabetes Association, the Heart and Stroke Foundation, and the Canadian Cancer Society, to name a few.

Of course, Perfect Settings is also known for its work with the Chamber’s own Nova Awards, with which Demers has been proudly involved since its second year in 2003. This year’s awards were particularly important, said Demers, as Perfect Settings was the recipient of the 2012 Service Excellence Award.
Despite her acclaim, however, she is insistent that when it comes to putting on truly fantastic events, it’s never about the work of one individual.

“It’s not just what we do; it’s what everybody does together,” said Demers. “I can provide the linens and chair covers and centrepieces and whatever else, but it’s also about the creativity of the committee and everybody pulling together, from the lights and sound to the food. Everything is put together to make something a success.”

For more information on Perfect Settings, visit them online at www.perfectsettings.ca, or call them at (705) 235-3210.

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Timmins Regional Economic Outlook to be hosted by Timmins Chamber

Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 GMT

From mining to forestry and energy, the region’s biggest business issues will be discussed and debated by attendees of the 2012 Timmins Regional Economic Outlook (TREO), to be held at the Northern College Porcupine Campus on June 6-7.

Hosted by the Timmins Chamber of Commerce and the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA) Timmins Chapter, this 13th bi-annual event brings together leaders from business, government and academia to educate and help them plan for the future.

Attendees will participate in panel discussions featuring high-ranking officials across a broad range of industries and sectors from the Timmins area. These will include presentations by representatives from various mining companies such as Detour Gold, De Beers Canada and Goldcorp – Porcupine Gold Mines; local forestry operations such as Tembec; regional energy operators such as Ontario Power Generation; as well as several local entrepreneurs and government planning officials. The event will also feature an economic overview of the region by Dr. David Robinson, director, Institute of Northern Ontario Research and Development (INORD) at Laurentian University.

For the first time, TREO will also feature concurrent sessions for local human resource professionals, allowing the event to offer something for everyone. These sessions will cover a range of topics, including managing stress in the workplace, using social media to attract and retain employees, and addressing mental health in the workplace.

“This bi-annual event is a great opportunity to get your finger on the economic pulse of the region,” said Christine Leclair, president of the Timmins Chamber of Commerce.
“Because there’s representation from across all sectors, TREO offers a ‘one-stop shop’ approach to informing yourself about all the business trends and development in the Timmins area. It’s a unique event that really showcases what’s happening in the area’s business community, and it’s truly not to be missed.”

The event officially begins June 6 with a networking reception hosted by INORD and Laurentian University followed by a dinner hosted by the HRPA and the Timmins Economic Development Corporation, with a keynote speech by Paul Huschilt, owner of Tales, Talks, Training Inc., who will speak on humor habits for workplace wellness.
The panel discussions and HR sessions will begin the morning of June 7, and continue throughout the day.

Registration is open to all, with $129 (+HST) for Chamber and HRPA members, or $179 for future members. Attendees will be entered to win a three-day, two-night trip to Las Vegas, with paid airfare and hotel.
To register, contact Alisha Luxton, member engagement coordinator with the Timmins Chamber of Commerce, at (705) 360-1900, or at events@timminschamber.on.ca

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For more information contact:
Nick Stewart
Policy and Communications Director
Timmins Chamber of Commerce
pcdirector@timminschamber.on.ca | (705) 360-1900