YOUR VOICE OF BUSINESS VOL 31 ISSUE 4 APRIL 2013 ... · Page 2 Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce...

In February, the Greater Os-hawa Chamber of Commerce (GOCC) Board of Directors wrote to the Toronto Board of

Trade on behalf of its member-ship stressing its disappointment in the Toronto Board’s deci-sion of introducing a new brand

name – “Toronto Region Board of Trade”. The decision by the Toronto Board was made without consultation and was clearly seen

by the GOCC Board as an attempt to undermine the Ontario Cham-ber of Commerce (OCC) and the GTA Chambers of Commerce.

The letter stressed that the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce represented its

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

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

Y O U R V O I C E O F B U S I N E S S VOL 31 ISSUE 4 APRIL 2013

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The measures announced in the March 21 budget are a significant step forward in the federal government’s attack on Canada’s skills challenge. The Canadian Chamber of Com-merce welcomes a more activ-ist approach by all of Canada’s governments to confront a grow-ing problem.

“The skills problem leads our Top Ten list of critical barriers to Canada’s competitiveness,” says Perrin Beatty, President and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. “It’s showing up all across the country, in every industry. We are pleased to see the government is moving to confront it, and to include busi-ness directly in the solutions.”

Mr. Beatty said the Cana-dian Chamber has long believed training programs should be de-signed and run by those closest to the workforce. “We believe in the leadership role of the prov-inces and territories, which these measures respect, but we’re pleased to see business and edu-cators will now have a central role as well. Of course, small and medium-sized businesses have specific challenges when it comes to training their employ-ees and we are pleased the gov-ernment recognizes that.”

“The 2012 Durham Economic Prosperity Conference identi-fied that people and skills are the biggest pressing issue fac-ing companies today,” stated Bob Malcolmson, CEO & Gen-eral Manager of the Greater Os-hawa Chamber of Commerce. “There is an urgent need to de-velop a workforce that has the right skills and this will require

Cont.’d on Page 6Cont.’d on Page 6

Breakfast With Joey Neuhoff Of Convanta Energy

The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce hosts a breakfast on Thursday,

May 9th at Octaviens in Oshawa with keynote speaker Joey Neuhoff, VP of Business Development for Covanta Energy Corporation. Mr. Neuhoff will share his expertise on waste disposal and resource recovery and discuss the Durham York Energy Centre and Durham incinerator project. Q & A session will follow. Register online at web.oshawachamber.com/events.

Highlighting WomenIn Business

The Chamber hosts its Women in Business luncheon on Wednesday, April 17th at Fazio’s Restaurant, 33 Simcoe Street South in Oshawa with keynote speaker Donna Taylor, CEO & Port Manager, Harbourmaster, Port of Oshawa from 12 noon to 2:00 p.m. This is a great networking event for women only. Invite a friend to lunch! Register online at web.oshawachamber.com/events.

Ottawa Moves On Skills Challenge

Fred Flinstone (a.k.a. Don Pitman of Guardian Residential Services) had an opportunity to chat with Durham College President, Don Lovisa at the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce 5th Annual Challenge held at NEB’s Fun World on Wednesday, March 6, 2013. Durham College entered two teams to participate in the challenging event which included go-carting, bowling, air tag and kara-oke! A fun time was had by all!

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In Durham, Chambers Speak For Business - Not Toronto Board

The Golf Gift Bag! The Greater Oshawa Chamber of

Commerce hosts its Annual Golf Tournament on Thursday, May 16th at the Oshawa Golf & Curling Club. This is a great networking event which includes lunch, 18 holes of golf and dinner! There is still room to enter a foursome, and there are hole sponsorship opportunities still available—showcase your business to a captive audience of over 144 business people! Plus, each golfer gets their own personal “gift bag” full of great stuff! If you wish to highlight your product or service, then you don’t want to miss putting an item in the “bag” or donating an item for the silent auction. For more information contact the Chamber at 905-728-1683 or visit web.oshawachamber.com/events.

Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce – Your Voice of Business April 2013

BUSINESS OF THE MONTH

The Table

The Table, located at 20 Simcoe Street South in Osha-wa, opened its doors in October 2011. Owner Carol Caval-leri’s goal is to bring people back to the downtown core and strengthen the heart of the City by creating Community Events, promoting local artists and supporting local busi-ness. She is very involved in the community. The Table is open to community groups to use after hours free of charge. On behalf of the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce

and the Ambassador Committee, congratulations on being named Business of the Month for April 2013. Pictured in this presentation from left to right (back row) are Craig Mack of Mack Lawyers, Peter Bocking of Hardiman Mount and Associates Insurance Brokers Ltd., Cathy Chiodo of RBC, (front row) Don Pitman of Guardian Residential Services, Andrea, Sandra, Carol Cavallari and Anthony of the Table and Iris Rapkoski of RBC.

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Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate – Jason Hart

Jason Hart, born and raised in Toronto, focusing his Real Estate career in Durham Region, Pickering, Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa, has excellent knowledge of the Durham Real Estate landscape. Jason is a passionate, enthusiastic, and dynamic Real Estate Sales Rep who utilizes various creative marketing tech-

niques to ensure your home sells quickly and for top dollar.When working with buyers, Jason shows his patience, un-

derstanding and knowledge, while providing his professional guidance to get you through the largest purchase of your life.

Jason Hart’s goal is to not only assist his clients in buying or selling their Durham homes, but to build and foster long term relationships, to be your Durham Real Estate Sales Rep for life. When you work with Jason Hart, his entire team becomes “Your Team”. “Your team” includes Professional Designers and Stagers, Renovators and Contractors, Roofers, Mortgage Agents, Home Inspectors, Lawyers, Caterers and Photogra-phers to name a few. From the first step, to finalizing the agree-ments, from staging your home for sale, to designing your new space, Jason Hart and “Your Team” ensure that your house becomes a home. Contact Jason Hart at 416-627-6353 or visit www.rjhartrealestate.com.

M.K Tailoring

M.K Tailoring, proudly serving Durham Region since 1975 is well known for its dedication to customer service and excel-lent workmanship in ladies’ and men’s alterations and repairs. They can help you save money by making the most of your ex-isting wardrobe by giving it a more contemporary look. Wheth-er it’s remodelling and updating a suit, repairing a small tear in

your favourite dress, or creating the perfect look for your Prom, M.K Tailoring guarantees fast, reliable and friendly service. All the work is done on the premises by their expert Tailor and Dressmakers who work hard to fix all your alteration dilemmas. Services include prom & formal wear; school uniforms; wed-dings; security & officer uniforms; home fashions and more!

M.K Tailoring looks forward to serving you from their con-venient location at Island Shopping Plaza, corner of King & Stevenson Rd. Hours are Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9:30 to 4 p.m. Plenty of parking is available! For more information, call (905) 725-4031 or visit www.mktailoring.ca.

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April 2013 Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce – Your Voice of Business

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City of Oshawa, Economic Development Services 50 Centre Street South, Oshawa, ON, L1H 3Z7

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On March 13, the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce in co-operation with the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC) hosted the first of 9 roundtables across the GTA with John Howe, Vice Presi-dent of Investment Strategy and Project Investment for Metrolinx. Business and community leaders sat down to tackle various funding options for what’s being called by Metrolinx as the “the Big Move”, a $50 billion transit project over the next 25 years to improve transit throughout the Greater Toronto area.

The intent of the OCC roundtable was to have a frank, honest conversation around how to pay for transit improvements to existing service and new transit construction across Durham and the GTA.

“These conversations will help us develop the best possible ad-vice to provide to the Province on these funding challenges,” stated Josh Hjartarson, Vice-President of Policy for the OCC.

The funding options put forward by Metrolinx for discussion were partly derived from public input gathered at a series of community meetings on the Big Move that were held across the GTA in 2012. The initial Metrolinx list included over thirty funding options. The OCC pared the list to a top ten which included Commercial Parking Levy, Regional Sales Tax, Vehicle Registration Fee, Central Conges-tion Levy, Income Tax, Employer Payroll Tax, Dedicated Fuel Tax, Property Tax, Highway Tolls, and Land Transfer Tax.

The principles employed to guide the new funding discussion were; the funding must be dedicated revenue; fairness in costs and benefits; equality in the Region; transparency and accountability; and that the funding would be dedicated specifically to transit and transportation outcomes.

“The participants, including business leaders, academia and the Mayors of Oshawa and Clarington, could not reach a conclusion on the best funding options. What was clear during the discussion was that revenue tools that targeted property taxes, development charges and payroll taxes would not be acceptable,” stated Bob Malcolmson, CEO of the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce.

It was agreed that service on the lakeshore needed to be increased to less than an hourly service to show benefit and value. John Howe suggested Metrolinx was targeting a 15 minute service in the fu-ture. The attendees agreed in principal that the tools to be employed needed to focus around choice such as road tolls, congestion charges, parking levies and fuel charges and need not be employed GTA wide but could be targeted. For example there are over 3 million non-residential parking spaces in the 905 area and to propose business pay $1.00 per day per spot is unrealistic. What could be proposed is an additional Parking Levy in the downtown core of Toronto which, combined with tolls on the Don Valley or Gardner Expressway, would mean travelers pay and it would be a matter of choice to drive or take public transit.

However, what came across loud and clear from attendees was Durham Region needed to see a stronger commitment from Metro-linx on moving future expansion of GO service to Oshawa and Clar-ington and that if a Dedicated Fuel Tax was to be considered it would need to ensure that those dedicated funds remain in the community for local transit service.

The main message was that whatever is proposed to the provincial government in June for funding tools and projects, people in Durham need to see the value and the Provincial and Federal governments need to be part of the process.

“The issue of fairness and concerns about who benefits were stated repeatedly. The biggest take away from the meeting was “fairness” and it was stated loud and clear by participants,” stated Chamber CEO Bob Malcolmson. For a detailed list of “Possible GTA Funding Proposals for the Big Move” visit www.oshawachamber.com.

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Overview:On January 25th, 2013, the Attorney General of Ontario announced

that effective March 1, 2013, those responsible for professional engi-neering work in relation to production machinery or equipment must be licensed by Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO). CME engaged the At-torney General, the MEDTE, the Premier’s office and key industry stake-holders in opposition to the change. The AG has subsequently extended the timeline for implementation from March 1, 2013 to September 1, 2013.

CME is coordinating a response calling for a full Regulatory Impact Analysis and, subject to verification of the costs and lack of benefit, a return to the status quo with respect to the industrial exception. Background:

Currently there exists an “Industrial Exception” which allows non-P.Eng personnel to conduct work on equipment that would otherwise re-quire a P.Eng designation (e.g. design work). The Government of Ontario approved a change to the Professional Engineers Act that would remove the “industrial exception” on March 1, 2013. Ontario had also approved a transition period of one year for companies that file a transition plan with the PEO by March 1, 2013. Employers that file the transition plan will have one year to meet the requirements.

With the repeal of section 12(3)(a) of the Professional Engineers Act, individuals must now be licensed by PEO if they do any act within the practice of professional engineering on machinery or equipment used to produce products for their employer in their employer’s facility. In 1984, when the exception was enacted, requirements existed for Ontario’s Min-istry of Labour engineers to approve predevelopment reviews of pro-posed industrial processes and associated equipment. This requirement was replaced by Regulation 851 under the Occupational Health and Safe-ty Act, which introduced the current requirement for industry to have pro-fessional engineers approve Pre-Start Health and Safety Reviews (PSRs) prior to the start-up of newly installed or altered production equipment or machinery. If a PSR finds deficiencies in the setup of equipment or ma-chinery, the equipment or machinery cannot be used until the necessary changes are made and a PSR approved.

PEO will waive fees for new-comers to Canada and new grads.

CME Member Issues:General: There is a great deal of uncertainty as to what constitutes

“professional engineering” work/activities within the Act. This uncer-tainty is leading companies to adopt a conservative interpretation of the potential impact of the change. Therefore, companies will have to con-duct an assessment of all process activities that are currently conducted by non-P.Eng personnel and determine whether they will now need to be conducted by P.Eng certified professionals. Members are also very con-cerned that the March 1st deadline is not feasible and will put companies into non-compliance. The cumulative impact of this and other regulations companies are facing presents an unfriendly image of Ontario as a place to invest

Potential Cost Implications For Manufacturers: Licensing fees, higher wage rates for P.Eng, increased insurance premiums, significant process realignment (e.g. changes to accommodate P.Eng availability), lack of qualified personnel, lower quality (P. Eng not necessarily most qualified person), recruiting costs, etc. The costs could be hundreds of thousands of dollars for a large manufacturer. Note: A small number of members have been in favour of the repeal on the basis that it would address low-skilled/unqualified people doing engineering work.

CME Actions to Date: CME has submitted a letter to the Attorney General of Ontario calling for a halt to the March 1st deadline until a full regulatory impact analysis can be conducted; CME has also worked with the Premier’s Office, the Ministry of Economic Development, Trade & Employment and the Open for Business Secretariat and engaged other industry stakeholders to coordinate a broader response. CME member/in-dustry stakeholder meeting held on Tuesday, March 5th to provide update and determine course of action.

Government Response: The AG issued a statement postponing the implementation of the Repeal of the Industrial Exception from March 1st to September 1, 2013.

Next Steps: CME is following up with the AG/Premier’s office/MEDTE on impacts and PEO requesting clarity as to what constitutes “Engineering Work” under the Act.

For more information on the Canadian Manufactures & Exporters (CME) Ontario, visit www.cme-mec.ca.

Presented by Peter Bocking

The business environment is constantly changing and advanc-ing. If you want to keep up, you have to keep changing, too. And that can be true for employee benefit plans, as well.

The coverage choices you made when you first implemented a benefit plan were right for you then. But are they right for you now? It’s very important to review your benefits annually. As your company evolves, even over a timeframe as small as a year, your benefit plan objectives might vary. For example:

• You may have more employees than you had a year ago. Their benefit needs might be different than the benefits that you currently offer.

• You’re concerned about losing key employees or having

trouble attracting quality staff. Enhancing your benefit plan is an easy way of strengthening your overall compensation package.

• Your needs have changed—married with a family on the way. A benefit plan is a tax effective means of protecting your family.

• Your financial position may be different today, as your busi-ness has become better established. And there may be more affordable options available to you than ever before.

Twelve months is a long time for any business. My advice: Make sure the decisions you made a year ago still make sense for you today.

Is Your Benefit Plan Changing With Your Company?

Peter Bocking, Employee Benefits ConsultantHardiman Mount & Associates Insurance Brokers Ltd.

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Submitted by Ian T. HowcroftVice President, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME) Ontario

CME Policy Brief - Repeal Of The Industrial Exception

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

Email: [email protected]

Internet: www.oshawachamber.com

Dan Carter, President Channel 12

Clyde Catton, Director BDO Canada LLP

Cris Douglas, Director CRCS Disaster Kleenup

David Hare, CIP, Treasurer Petley-Hare Insurance Brokers

Jeff Hayes, Vice President Brian Hayes Plumbing

Harry Horricks, Director Oshawa Clinic

John Kellam, Director McIntosh Anderson Kellam Funeral Home

K. Robert (Bob) Malcolmson, CEO & GM Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce

Kevin Mara, Director Neal Mara, Barristers & Solicitors

Geoffrey Michie, Past President RBC Wealth Management - Dominion Securities

Diane Munro, Director Classic Flowers

Ron Oberth, Director Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries

Don Pitman, Director Guardian Residential Services

Justine Murray-Robinson, Director TD Commercial Banking

John Sturrup, Vice President JS2 Marketing & Commuications

Gary Valcour, Director Oshawa Port Authority

John Williams, Director John Williams, C.A.

Terry Wu, Director UOIT

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

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

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGEDan Carter

Well March has certainly ended like a lion and many of us hope that that is the end of the cold and the snow. What a difference a year makes! Last March many of us were already on some of the local golf courses and having lunch at many of Oshawa’s finest outside patios. Let’s hope April brings sunny skies and warmer temperatures.

March was another busy month at the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce. The 5th Annual Challenge saw over 120 people attend and 22 teams take part. Thank you to all that took the time to participate. A special thank you to Johnson Insurance Inc. for their sponsorship and NEB's Fun World for hosting the event!

The Under 40 Group is enjoying a great start to the year and plan-ning lots of exciting events including their fun poker night that was held at the Officers’ Mess in March. Over 30 young professionals are part of this group and they would love to see many more join them this year.

One of the most interesting events I attended was a round table with John Howe, Vice President, Investment Strategy & Project Evalua-tion of Metrolinx. Hosted by the Chamber, 20 of Durham Region’s top leaders attended the 2 1/2 hour meeting to hear the challenges and some of the plans that are needed to be addressed if Ontario is going to find a long term solution to transit. How do you fairly fund a plan that needs $2 billion dollars a year and how do we ensure that Durham Region get its fair share? We will look forward to the next steps in Metrolinx’s plans and to being a part of the discussions. We will keep you all in the loop as events unfold.

It is that time of year again, when the Chamber calls for nominations of companies whose business achievements have made an important contribution to the community. The nomination form can be found on page 10. The recipients will be recognized at the Business Excellence Award Ceremony taking place on Tuesday, September 17th. Nominate a business today!

In closing, I would like to thank the many volunteers and chairs of the committees. We could not have as many events without your count-less hours of work and dedication. Thank you to Committee Chairs Brandon Alexander, Robert Spruce, Cris Douglas, Geoff Michie, San-dra Sherk, Bruce Smith and Sean McNammara. We look forward to the many events planned for 2013 and hope you will be able to join us.

“We are drawn to leaders and organizations that are good at commu-nicating what they believe.” Simon Sinek, Author of Start with Why.

Sincerely,Dan CarterPresident, Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce

Last year, the Chamber Esso program upped the game by adding the abil-ity of business owners to put their employees on the program.

It’s tough for small busi-ness owners to find great benefits to offer their em-ployees. We think this one is a winner - because even

if they’re driving on their own time, the discount of 3.5 cents off posted pump price applies.

Employee forms have recently been updated; visit the Esso program micro site at www.essofleetoffers.com/CHAMBER.

Chamber Benefit HighlightsEmployees Can Use Their Esso Cards Even On Vacation!


The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) regulates the use of nuclear energy and materials to protect the health, safety and security of Canadians and the environment; and to implement Canada's international com-mitments on the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Transcripts of the hearing are available on the CNSC Web site at nuclearsafety.gc.ca.

Gary Valcour, Director Oshawa Port Authority

John Williams, Director John Williams, C.A.

Terry Wu, Director UOIT

Help Make Oshawa A Cleaner, Greener City!Pitch-In-Week - April 21–27, 2013

The City of Oshawa has joined the national efforts of PITCH-IN CANADA to promote the clean up of our community. In 2012, over 19,000 students, community groups, homeowners and busi-nesses ‘pitched-in’ by cleaning up parks, trails, school yards and open spaces. Plan to organize a group, large or small to clean up a public area. Visit www.oshawa.ca and register your event to receive FREE bags and gloves! Assistance is available in choosing a clean-up location, find-ing a group to join, or promoting your unique event—please call 905-438-3146. Upon comple-tion of your registered activity a Certificate of Recognition will be prepared to acknowledge your contribution to the community. Thank you for making Oshawa a cleaner, greener City!

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Following a public hearing held December 3 to 6, 2012 in Courtice, Ontario, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Com-mission (CNSC) announced on Thursday, March 14, that it has accepted the environmental assessment for the proposed refurbishment of Darlington’s four nuclear reactors. The Commission concluded that it will have no significant damaging effect on the environment.The news means Ontario Power Generation can move ahead with a number of activities in support of Darling-ton refurbishment project.“OPG is very pleased with the (Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission’s) decision,” said Wayne Rob-bins, OPG’s Chief Nuclear Officer. “We were con-fident in our conclusions that Darlington refurbish-ment and continued operation of the station will not result in any significant, adverse environmental effects, given the mitigation measures identified.”The federal panel held a public hearing in December

2012 looking into the plant’s continued operation and the environmental impact of a refurbishment. The panel took several months to review the comments made at the public hearing, write and deliver the report to the federal government.Refurbishment of the four Darlington reactors requires the replacement of a number of major components. The reactor is shut down for the work to be done. After the refurbishment, each reactor will be refueled, tested and returned to full power. A refurbished Darlington station will provide 3,500 megawatts of clean, reliable, cost effective electricity for the people of Ontario for an additional 25 to 30 years. It will be one of the largest capital infrastructure projects in Canada, creating significant benefits for 10 to 15 years including employment, business and suppli-er opportunities and increased municipal revenue. For more information on the project, visit www.opg.com.

Darlington Nuclear Plant Overhaul Gets Environmental Approval


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The Ontario Government needs to focus more on creating win-ning conditions for businesses, according to the Ontario Chamber of Commerce (OCC), the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce (GOCC) and the over thirty other Chambers in Ontario from Wind-sor to Cornwall and as far north as Thunder Bay and Sudbury, who recently presented a pre-budget submission to the Province.

The 2013 pre-budget submission advises government to take seven practical steps to help grow the provincial economy, includ-ing tackling the provincial deficit, exploring new ways of delivering public services, and investing in ways to export Ontario to the world.

Addressing the fiscal challenge remains businesses’ top prior-ity. “Our provincial debt is approaching $300 billion,” said Al-lan O’Dette, President & CEO of the Ontario Chamber of Com-merce. “Interest payments on that debt represent the third highest area of program spending after health care and education.”

“Government also needs to fundamentally re-evaluate its role as the province’s default service provider,” added O’Dette. “Interna-tional experience tells us that you can shift service delivery to the private and not-for-profit sectors and create a cost-savings while im-proving service quality.”

Citing massive labour shortages, the submission also calls on the Ontario Government to let employers play a more prominent role

in employment and training services. “It’s disconcerting to find that 25% of employers in the GTA region are having difficulty hiring someone with the right qualifications,” said Bob Malcolmson, CEO & General Manager of the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce.

The 2012 Durham Economic Prosperity Conference identified that Ontario needs to plug the skills gap identifying the need to develop a workforce that has the right skills as a major concern for busi-ness. “There are sectors of the economy that have had difficulty hir-ing someone with the right qualifications. There is an urgent need,” stated Malcolmson.

Members of the OCC were surveyed as part of the Chambers’ pre-budget submission. Highlights include:

• 76% of Ontario businesses believe that reducing the size of government should be a top priority

• 30% of employers have had difficulty hiring someone with the right qualifications

• 62% of Ontario businesses believe clamping down on the un-derground economy should be a top priority

We need to act collectively, strategically, and with purpose to en-sure that the province remains the best place to live, work and raise a family. To read the full submission visit www.oshawachamber.com.

Ontario Government Needs To Tackle Skills Gap

The Region of Durham’s Economic Development and Tourism Division is planning their second Business Mission to China in Sep-tember 2013 and are inviting local companies that are interested in doing business in China to attend an information session on April 4, 2013, from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. at the Regional Headquarters, 605 Rossland Road East, in Whitby.

In May 2012, the Region of Durham, along with UOIT and Dur-ham College, embarked on an exploratory mission to investigate

business opportunities in five Chinese Cities. It proved to be a suc-cessful mission, with the Region of Durham signing two Friendship agreements, one with Zibo City and one with Changping. As a re-sult, these Chinese governments have extended an invitation to Dur-ham Region, and our local business community, to further explore opportunities of doing business in China.

For further details or to R.S.V.P. please contact Chelsea Neill at [email protected] or call 905-668-4113 ext.2614.

Region Planning Business Mission To China

business community and its mem-bers very well at all levels of gov-

ernment. The GOCC provides vital feedback and participates in the success and longevity of the Ontario and the Canadian Cham-bers of Commerce. The GOCC agreed with the position of Durham Regional Chair Roger Anderson that the Chambers and Boards in Durham speak for business in Durham – NOT the Toronto Board.

In early February a letter was sent by the Toronto Board to May-ors in the GTA as well as a similar letter sent to the Toronto Board membership stating that the Toronto Board’s policy and advocacy initiatives demonstrates how it champions the Toronto Region busi-ness community. In response to the letter the GOCC stated “your statement on how you have driven the cause for stronger economic coordination and competitiveness is disingenuous.” The letter out-lined that the Toronto Board’s decision had little or no regard for the collective efforts over the past decade of the other twenty-one Boards and Chambers in the GTA. The letter also outlined how it totally ignored the fact these same GTA Boards and Chambers, worked collaboratively with Toronto to put in place the GTAA, the

GTMA and in 2001 reinforced the business communities concerns for the need to clearly define the GTSB governance structure. Col-lectively, in the GTA, these Chambers and Boards represent well over 20,000 businesses in the four Regions of Durham, York, Peel and Halton. These collaborative efforts yielded positive results that benefit all communities, not just Toronto.

The strength of the GTA Chamber network is in its ability to speak for the business community on region-wide issues, such as transportation, through the Ontario Chamber of Commerce.

In today’s global economy, it is a situation of city-regions com-peting against city-regions. It should not be Chambers of Com-merce and Boards of Trade competing against Chambers of Com-merce and Boards of Trade, which is what the Toronto Board’s announcement has done. The GOCC believes this one letter, with no consultation with the OCC or GTA Chambers, has shattered all the goodwill and past effort. What is most unfortunate is the Toronto Board of Trade had a good working relationship with the GTA Chambers and the Ontario Chamber of Commerce until 2008 at which time it deteriorated.

In Durham, Chambers Speak For Business - Not Toronto BoardCont.’d from Page 1

partnerships between industry, government and academia and it is

encouraging to see that the government recognizes it.” “Mr. Flaherty reiterated the government’s commitment to erasing

the federal deficit by 2015. We think that’s going to be tough, but it’s essential. Much of our recent economic success is tied to our reputa-tion as a prudent country which follows through on its fiscal plans,” added Malcolmson.

The Chamber President, Dan Carter, also expressed strong sup-port for new federal measures to improve training and education for Aboriginal peoples. “Although these measures are modest, they are a step in the right direction. Most Aboriginal peoples are young. They represent a huge potential workforce, but we have to support them

more. Funding for Aboriginal education at all levels has lagged for many years, and education results have, too. It’s not hard to see the connection,” stated Mr. Carter.

Finally, Mr. Beatty expressed disappointment with the Budget’s plan for research and innovation funding. “Last year Ottawa made a $770 million reduction to the money available for research in Cana-da. We urged the government to have a dialogue with the leading re-search corporations in Canada, to make sure the replacement model met their needs. Reviewing today’s budget, many of Canada’s most important innovators will be disappointed. It will be hard for those companies to maintain their commitments to research in Canada when other jurisdictions are more supportive.”

Ottawa Moves On Skills ChallengeCont.’d from Page 1


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PATHWAYSExecutive Copier Systems Inc. opened its doors in April 1983 and

this month, they are proud to celebrate their 30th Anniversary! Execu-tive Copier Systems President George Dunn would like to thank his customers and in honour of this event they will be offering special pro-motions throughout the month of April. The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce President Dan Carter presented a Congratulatory Cer-tificate to Mr. Dunn to commemorate the event. Pictured above (from left to right) are Dan Carter of Channel 12, George Dunn and Chamber Director John Kellam of McIntosh Anderson Kellam Funeral Home. For information on their services and specials, contact Executive Copier Systems at (905) 683-1089 or visit www.ecs-canada.com.

YoYo’s Yogurt Café, located at 785 Taunton Road East in Oshawa, re-cently celebrated its Grand Opening. The celebration was well attended with Mayor John Henry cutting the ribbon to officially open the first self serve frozen yogurt store in Oshawa. Lots of treats and samples were enjoyed by all. Pictured here presenting a Congratulatory Certifi-cate on behalf of the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce (GOCC) to franchise owner, Todd Neblett is GOCC staff member Sheri Findlay. For more information, visit www.yoyosyogurtcafe.com.

Celebrating 30 Years! Oshawa’s Frozen Yogurt Store Opens

Back in Balance Fitness and Nutrition will be hosting their grand opening at 463 Bond Street in Oshawa on Friday, April 26th. The event will begin at 1:00 p.m. and the ribbon cutting will take place at 1:30 p.m. All are invited to attend!

Grand Openings!You are cordially invited to attend The 4th Annual “A Tribute To Our

Troops” dinner, on Thursday, April 25th at the Deer Creek Golf and Country Club in Ajax. The “Tribute to Our Troops” dinner is a way of saluting our Canadian heroes past and present and raise funds for the Ontario Regiment Foundation. Visit www.troopstribute.com for spon-sorship opportunities, ticket requests, and silent auction donations.

A Tribute To Our Troops

Malibu Grille recently celebrated its Grand Opening at 81 King Street East in Oshawa. On hand to celebrate and cut the ribbon are (left to right - front row) Oshawa Councillor Doug Sanders, Sia Venet, Oshawa Mayor John Henry, owner and partners Sofia Georgiopoulos and Mike

Hatziefstratiou, Oshawa Councillor Nester Pidwerbecki (back row) Rosay Chretien, Chad Camacho, Jessica Ireland and Anthony Licata. For more information, visit www.facebook.com/malibugrille.

Grand Opening Malibu Grille

RBC Royal Bank, located at 680 Longworth Avenue in Bowman-ville, recently hosted its Grand Opening celebration. Pictured here cut-ting the ribbon are, from left to right, (front row), Tara Johnson, RBC Longworth & Scugog; Clarington Mayor Adrian Foster, Loui Nedanis, Branch Manager, RBC Longworth & Scugog; Regional Councillor Mary Novak, Clarington; Jeff Boyd, Regional President Ontario North & East – RBC; Valerie Callahan, Account Manager / CSR, RBC Long-

worth & Scugog; (back row), Karen Roberts, Branch Manager, RBC Harmony & Taunton, Oshawa; Travis Capes, Regional Vice President of Durham – RBC; Councillor Joe Neal, Clarington; Joel Yelle, Man-ager Client Care, RBC Longworth & Scugog; Regional Councillor Willie Woo, Clarington; Sheila Hall, Clarington EDO; Councillor Ron Hooper; Clarington. Welcome to the community!

RBC Opens New Branch

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In Durham Region/Clarington, please call 905-433-4003

In Kawartha/Northumberland County, please call 705-742-5539 / 1-888-742-5539www.bayshore.ca

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Wheel Straightening Balancing & Alignment

Home & Auto Insurance designed for Greater Oshawa Chamber Members and their Employees.www.johnson.ca/gocc 1.800.563.0677 (Provide Group ID Code JT)

Members In the NewsMembers In the News


THE 5TH ANNUAL CHALLENGE March 6, 2013 – NEB’s Fun World

Thank You Sponsors for Your SupportJohnson Insurance Inc., Main Event SponsorStaff Plus, Bowling Event SponsorStagevision Rentals Inc. (Oshawa), Go Kart Event SponsorCASB Media, Air Tag Event Sponsor

Bowling Lane SponsorsCASB MediaThe Wynfield Retirement Residence

Thank You To Our 2013 Challenge CommitteeSandra Sherk, Credit Canada Debt SolutionsJohn Sturrup, JS2 Marketing & CommunicationsBrian Harvey, Oshawa Public Library

Thank You To Our VolunteersKathy ChateauvertMichael Baird, Woodland HomesVanessa Benedict, ScotiaMcLeod

Thank You To Our Celebrity JudgesKate Stollar, KX96Don Pitman, Guardian Residential ServicesRocky Varcoe, Class Act Dinner Theatre & Catering

Congratulations To The Teams

The Winning TeamThe 5th Annual Challenge Champions are “PH 2” from Pet-ley-Hare Insurance Brokers. They won $1000.00 to donate to their charity of choice, The Simcoe Hall Settlement House. Congratulations!

The Official Final Challenge Score Card

Angie's Warriors Conquer Cancer UnitedCRCSDevil's in DisguiseDon's DamesDurham College 1Durham College 2FeztasticsFriends with BenefitsJohnson JiggersNorth Durham ApplianceOptical Superheros

PH 1PH 2Ring of FireShrine-a-RamasTeam WinmarTeam WynfieldThe CASB CrewThe Howlin HillbilliesThe Old FashionedThe SmileystriOS Terminators

The Challenge Sponsor

Challenge Bowling Winners

The Challenge Champions

The Challenge Costume Contest

The Challenge Was On At Neb's

The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce held its 5th Annual Challenge on Wednesday, March 6, 2013 at NEB’s Fun World. Thank you to Johnson Insurance Inc. for sponsoring this very popular event again this year. Pictured from left to right are the “Johnson Jiggers” Yvonne Brady of Johnson Insurance, Mal Liggett, Julie Rennie, Linda Grieco and Denise Aston.

The 2013 Bowling Champions were “Friends with Benefits” from Hardiman Mount & Associates Insurance Brokers Ltd. with a team to-tal score of 705. The Bowling Event was sponsored by Staff Plus. Pic-tured in the Medal Presentation from left to right are Melissa Carroll, Peter Bocking, Jacqueline Bocking, Kerry Mount and Barry Mount of HMA and Joanie Gauthier (a.k.a. Elly May Clampett) of Staff Plus. Congratulations Friends with Benefits!

The 2013 Challenge Champions were Team PH 2 from Petley-Hare Insurance Brokers. Team PH 2 won the Challenge Cup as well as $1,000.00 to donate to their charity of choice, Simcoe Hall Settlement House. Pictured in this presentation from left to right are Boots Head, Deb Miller, Darlene Small, Kathie Aldred (missing from photo is Jan-ice Henry) and Event Sponsor, Yvonne Brady of Johnson Insurance Inc. Congratulations Team PH 2!

The 2013 winning team of the 1963 Themed Costume Contest was the “triOS Terminators” who came dressed up as The Beverly Hillbil-lies. The winning team each won a gift certificate for Class Act Dinner Theatre compliments of one of our Celebrity Judges, Rocky Varcoe. Pictured from left to right are Rocky Varcoe of Class Act Dinner Theatre, Ann Tesluk, Chris Gibson, Deborah Jollymore, Mary-Anne Thompson and Ryan March of triOS College. Congratulations triOS Terminators!

Challenge Go Kart Winners

The Challenge Judges

The Challenge Johnny Cash

The 2013 Go Kart Champions were Team “Winmar”. They won with the best lap time of 23.603 seconds. The Go Kart Event was spon-sored by Stagevision Rentals Inc. Oshawa. Pictured in the Medal Pre-sentation from left to right are Arron Williams, Shawn Caklec, Clint Scheltema, Bruce Butwell and Brian Kelly all of Winmar-Durham and Jacques Bernier of Stagevision Rentals Inc. Oshawa. Congratulations Team Winmar!

The 2013 Challenge added a 1963 Themed Costume Contest with 3 Celebrity Judges in attendance. The teams were being judged on enthu-siasm, detail and originality. A big thank you to our 3 Celebrity Judges: Fred Flinstone (a.k.a. Don Pitman of Guardian Residential Services), Kate Stollar of KX96 and Rocky Varcoe of Class Act Dinner Theatre.

The 2013 Challenge had a visit from ‘Johnny Cash’ (a.k.a. Geoff Michie of RBC Wealth Management). Johnny and the rest of his team, “Ring of Fire” from RBC Wealth Management - Dominion Securities were 1 of 22 teams that participated in the 5th Annual Challenge at NEB’s Fun World on March 6, 2013.

The Challenge Air Tag WinnersThe 2013 Air Tag Champions were North Durham Appliance with

a team total score of 129 points. The Air Tag Event was sponsored by CASB Media Inc. Pictured in the Medal Presentation from left to right are Joe Povoas, Mike Profenna, Kevin Gagnon, Brad Tarabocchia and Kerri-Lynn Gagnon all of North Durham Appliance and Paul Baker of CASB Media Inc. Congratulations North Durham Appliance!


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

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

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

For complete details on these events, see the flyers in this edition of Business Matters or visit web.oshawachamber.com/events to register online.

Visit web.oshawachamber.com/events to register online

Health, Dental & Life Insurance designed for Greater Oshawa Chamber Members and their Employees. Contact Peter Bocking at 1.800.361.6996 ext. 239 or visit www.chamberplan.ca

MEMBER ORIENTATION

Tuesday, April 16, 2013 - 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.Chamber Boardroom, 44 Richmond Street W., Oshawa

Learn about the Chamber Member JumpStart Program and how to make FULL USE of your Chamber Membership...to find and connect with new customers, to expand your

knowledge and to help you MAKE MORE MONEY!

Bring promotional materials to display on the shared networking table. This is a FREE event open to everyone including Chamber members and their employees.

***Register ONLINE!!! PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.***

MEMBER ORIENTATION

Tuesday, May 15, 2013 - 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.Chamber Boardroom, 44 Richmond Street W., Oshawa

Learn about the Chamber Member JumpStart Program and how to make FULL USE of your Chamber Membership...to find and connect with new customers, to expand your

knowledge and to help you MAKE MORE MONEY!

Bring promotional materials to display on the shared networking table. This is a FREE event open to everyone including Chamber members and their employees.


Durham York Energy Centre Information Breakfast

Thursday, May 9, 2013 • 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.Octaviens - Best Western Durham

559 Bloor St., W., Oshawa

Members: $40.00 (plus HST) Prospective Members: $50.00 (plus HST)

Keynote Speaker: Joey Neuhoff, VP, Covanta Energy

***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. REGISTER ONLINE AT WEB.OSHAWACHAMBER.COM ***

Women In BusinessWednesday, April 17, 2013

12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. Fazio’s, 33 Simcoe St., S., Oshawa

Keynote Speaker: Donna Taylor, CEO & Port Manager

Harbourmaster, Port of Oshawa.Members: $40.00 PLUS HST • Prospective Members: $60.00 PLUS HST

Deadline: Friday, May 10, 2013

Registration Required. Space is limited. This is a member only benefit and only

one item per member business.

GOLF TOURNAMENT Gift Bag Promotion Do you have a service or product that you would like to promote? Do you have a coupon or gift certificate you would like to offer to members? The Chamber would like to extend an invitation to have your promotional piece included in a gift bag to be given out to each golfer at the Annual Golf Tournament on May 16, 2013.This is your opportunity to promote your service or product to 144 potential customers for only $25.00!

***Register ONLINE!!! web.oshawachamber.com/events.***

Price Includes: · 18 Holes of Golf · Power Cart · Raffle Prize Putting Contest · Driving Range · Door Prizes

Lunch & Dinner · Specialty HolesRegister today…this event sells

out quickly!

ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENTThursday, May 16, 2013

Oshawa Golf & Curling Club, 160 Alexandra St., Oshawa$199.00 (Includes HST)

Hole Sponsors: $150.00 Cart Sponsors: $50.00 ***Register ONLINE!!! PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.***

Dinner Sponsor: Lunch Sponsor:

"You Are The Speaker"This format is your chance to tell members about your business and what it can do for them!Members: $15.00 PLUS HST (Includes continental breakfast)

Business 4 BreakfastThursday,

April 18, 20137:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.

hosted by

433 Eulalie Avenue Oshawa

This is a MEMBERS ONLY event. Only one member per organization.***PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED***


This is a FREE MEMBERS ONLY event. Only one member per organization! Register ONLINE!!! Pre-registration is required.

Wednesday, May 8, 2013 • 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.Topic: Social Media - Learn From Your Peers

Learn from your social media savvy peers about Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn in this interactive round table lunch & learn.

Lunch&LearnWednesday, May 8, 2013Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce Boardroom44 Richmond St. W., Ste. 100, Oshawa


Renewing MembersAARTech Canada Inc.Aftershock Creative Inc.Ajax Convention CentreAllstate Insurance CanadaAMEC Environment & InfastructureArt & Technique Academy of Hair

Styling & EstheticsAshpark Basement Waterproofing

ContractorsAunt Audrey's FavouritesAvis and Budget Rent A CarB.Y.O.B. Spring Water Brewing Inc.Baxters WigsBDO Canada LLPBell CanadaBig Brothers Big Sisters of Oshawa-

WhitbyBlue Kone Great Lakes Gas Ltd.Boston Pizza Oshawa NorthBowden TransportBrain Injury Association of Durham

RegionBreak-Away Technologies Inc.Brock Built-In SpecialistsBuffalo Wild WingsBusiness Professional Women's Club of

Durham Region (BPW Durham)C. Fred Ball & Associates Inc.C.K. Collision CentresC.P. SystemsCanadian Automotive MuseumCanadian Blood ServicesCanadian Mental Health Association -

DurhamCarriage Trade Cleaning CentreChannel 12Chiropractic Wellness and

RehabilitationChurchills-CrossingsCIBCCity of Oshawa, Economic

Development ServicesClarington HyundaiComcare Health ServicesCoutts and Flim Surveying Inc.Coyle Packaging Group, Factory Outlet

StoreDeegan Denture Clinic - Brian D.

Deegan D.D.Dodd & Souter Flooring

Don & Son Building Supplies Ltd.don Nick Fazio La Pizza & PastaDowntown Oshawa BIADurham Carstar Collision CentreDurham HomesDurham HospiceDurham MedicalDurham Outlook for the Needy - St.

Vincent Pallotti's KitchenEast Oshawa Animal HospitalElite Sports Tours Inc.EN-PRO International Inc.Family Services E.A.P.Fazio's Restaurant Inc.Feed the Need in DurhamGeneral Motors of Canada Ltd.Glazier Medical FootcareGord's Mobile Lock & KeyGreeley Containment & Rework Inc.Homeopathy by the Book / Dr. Joseph

KellersteinHumane Society of Durham RegionIn Style Limousine ServiceInvestors Group - Lynne SharpeInvestors Group Financial Services Inc.,

David Oshier ConsultantJenish Forensic EngineeringJohn Howard Society of Durham Region

Employment ServicesJS2 Marketing & CommunicationsKeg Steakhouse & BarKitchen LegalKnights InnL.A.W. Process Service Inc.Leahy, M. Irene, B.A., C.A.Line-X Protective CoatingsLocal Media Marketing Inc.MAD SportsMandelbaum Spergel Inc.Matthew Bakker Professional

CorporationMauch's Pet SuperstoreMcDonald's Family Restaurants of

OshawaMcDougall Appleton Insurance BrokersMotor City Car ClubNewton-Trelawnay Property Mgmt.Organization of Canadian Nuclear

IndustriesOshawa Collision Centre

Oshawa Express, TheOshawa Kicks Soccer ClubOshawa Little TheatreOshawa Municipal AirportOSHAWA POWER BASKETBALLPerry Mechanical Inc.Promotional Products Fulfillment &

Distribution Ltd.R & A Auto ServiceRanfeld Rapid Reproductions Inc.Regent Theatre - UOITRegional Municipality of Durham -

Diversity and Immigration ProgramRhythm Dynamix DanceRiocan Management Inc. - Five Points

MallRogers TVRotary Club of Oshawa, TheSatellites Unlimited (1980) SIGN-A-RAMASilver MeridianSimcoe Hall Settlement HouseSoehner Displays and Exhibits Inc.Spa on King, TheStaples Business DepotSteenburg Auto Sales Ltd.Steffen Engine Machine Co. Ltd.Steve Moss Home Renovation & RepairStrike Furlong FordTD Merchant ServicesThe Patty ShackTraditions of DurhamTwo Men and a Truck - OshawaVictim Services of Durham RegionVictory Cigars Inc.Vintners Cellar - OshawaVoice Path Business Telephone

SystemsW.B. White Insurance LimitedWally's WorldWhitby Carpet CleanersWilliams Communication Services

LimitedWilson FurnitureWindfields Farm LimitedWinmar-DurhamWorking It! Making Your Clothes Work

For You Inc.YLM

Abilities Centre 55 Gordon StreetWhitby, ON L1N 0J2Phone: (905) 665-8500Web: www.abilitiescentre.orgNot for ProfitLeisa Washington

Birnie Electric Ltd.2269 Dunwin DriveMississauga, ON L5L 1X1Phone: (905) 569-1818www.makemyhomecurrentsafe.comElectrical ContractorsJeff Birch

DPL Security1266 Tall Pine AvenueOshawa, ON L1K 3A5Phone: (905) 743-9689Security Services Don Leschuk

Joanne M. Seeds, CMA829 Buttonbush CrourtOshawa, ON L1K 2H9Phone: (905) 442-6381Accounting – Management & ConsultingJoanne Seeds

LA Fitness 1189 Ritson Road North, Unit AOshawa, ON L1G 8B9Phone: (289) 274-8984Web: www.LAfitness.comFitness CentreMike Richert

Oriana Financial123 Mary Street EastWhitby, ON L1N 2P3Phone: (705) 878-6998Web: www.orianafinancial.comMortgage BrokersBob Pinkney

Perfect Sounds D.J. ServicesOshawa, ON Phone: (905) 550-5637Web: www.perfectsoundsdj.comDisc JockeyJoe Lococo

PODS Moving & Storage1000 Thornton Road SouthOshawa, ON L1J 7E2Phone: (416) 291-7637Web: www.pods.com Moving & Storage Mike Fielding

Powerful Journey Consulting Columbus, ON Phone: (905) 720-3401Web: www.powerfuljourney.com Consulting Cate Collins

Re/Max Jazz Brokerage Inc. – Dave & Noel Coppins 21 Drew StreetOshawa, ON L1H 4Z7Phone: (905) 728-1600Web: www.remaxjazz.comReal EstateDave Coppins

STANDOUT Promotional Products1869 Scugog Street, Ste 6-105Port Perry, ON L9L 1J1Phone: (905) 982-0285Web: www.standoutcanada.comPromotional Products Carrie Makins

Viamede595 Mount Julian-Viamede Rd.Woodview, ON K0L 3E0Phone: (705) 654-3344Web: www.viamede.comHotels & MotelsBen Samann

New Members

To view all of the new members please visit www.oshawachamber.com and click on Member Services.

18th Annual

Call For NominationsTHIS IS YOUR CHANCE TO RECOGNIZE

OSHAWA AREA BUSINESSES!Interested in Sponsoring the Annual Business Excellence Awards?

Call the Chamber at 905-728-1683 Today!The Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations of companies whose significant business achievements have made an important contribution to the economic and social well being of the Greater Oshawa area.EligibilityAll businesses or industries within the Greater Oshawa boundaries - Oshawa/Whitby border to Hwy.115/35 and north to Oshawa/Scugog border - whether they are a member of the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce or not are eligible. Any business or industry outside the Greater Oshawa bound-aries may be nominated provided the company is a member of the Greater Oshawa Chamber ofCommerce. Past Award recipient’s are in-eligible for nomination in any of the categories for a minimum of three years.Awards• Business Person • New Enterprise • Civic Pride• Business Excellence (more than one may be awarded)• InnovationNomination ProcedureAny person may participate in the nomination process by supplying the information required. Nomi-nees may be nominated for one category only. The Awards Committee of the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce reserves the right to change a nominee’s category.Selection ProcedureSuccessful nominees in each category will be contacted by a member of the Chamber Selection Committee and will be asked to participate in a brief interview. Prior to the personal interview, ques-tions will be supplied to the nominee. Upon completion of the interview, the Selection Committee will meet to select the recipient in each category. The honourees will be recognized at the Business Excel-lence Awards on Tuesday, September 17, 2013.

Nomination FormCriteria

Business PersonThe recipient must excel in all areas of business and display leadership within the community.New EnterpriseThe recipient must be recognized as a successful entrepreneurial business in operation less than five years.Civic PrideThe business recipient is recognized for actively participating within the community, showing leader-ship and/or pride in areas of environment and beautification.Business Excellence (more than one may be awarded)The business recipient must have exceptional business achievements relating to a variety of areas, including but not limited to: sustainability, accessibility, customer service, new markets, products, marketing and the environment.InnovationThe business must have utilized an innovative and creative approach to integrate leading edge technol-ogy, including but not limited to: customer service, sales growth and contribution to the community.

Please indicate award category (one only) the Nomination is for:

q Business Person q New Enterprise q Civic Prideq Innovation q Business Excellence

Name of Nominee/Business: _____________________________________________________

Nominee’s/Contact’s Name: _____________________________________________________

Title/Position: _________________________________________________________________

Address: _____________________________________________________________________

City: ______________________________ Postal Code: _______________________________

Telephone: __________________________ Fax: _____________________________________

Is the nominee aware of this nomination? Yes ______ No _______

Why should this company/individual be nominated? ___________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________

Nominator: ____________________________ Telephone: __________ Fax: _______________

(Please print)

Company _____________________________________________________________________

Signature: __________________________________ Date: _____________________________

Nominations MUST be received by close of business (5:00 p.m.) April 19, 2013.

AWARDS 2013


Does the mere thought of a tax audit make you feel un-easy? If so, you are not alone. Whether you are in the middle of a tax audit or live in fear that the tax auditor is waiting for you around the next corner, we all have to accept that tax audits are an unfortunate fact of life for all individuals or busi-nesses (whether you carry on business as a proprietorship, partnership or in a corpora-tion). Fortunately, by under-standing what triggers an audit, what the audit process entails, and how BDO can as-sist you through this unpleas-ant process, you will have the tools you need to survive the entire experience intact! Being prepared means that you can rest assured that if a tax audi-tor ever does comes knocking on your door, you’ll be ready. What can the CRA audit?

In an attempt to both uphold the fairness of our tax system and to ensure taxpayer com-pliance, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) selectively au-dits GST/HST and income tax returns, payroll records and excise taxes and duties. You should note that it is within the

power of the CRA to conduct an audit with respect to any of the statutes or regulations that it administers. For individuals and Canadian-controlled pri-vate corporations, the CRA generally has up to three years from the time of issuing a no-tice of assessment to go back and audit that specific year. However, if a waiver for the particular year is provided, this time frame can be extended.

In the past, most audits of smaller businesses (generally businesses with annual sales less than $4 million) were conducted as combined au-dits. This meant that one audit would cover both income tax and GST/HST issues. Com-bined audits have since been discontinued, and businesses will now either be subject to an income tax audit or an audit that focuses solely on GST/HST filing errors or omissions. How does the CRA select files for audit?

The CRA’s computer sys-tem allows it to sort personal and corporate tax returns into various groups based on specific criteria, which in turn helps it select returns to be audited. The CRA has identi-fied four common methods of selection that include:

Computer-generated lists – Most returns are selected for audit review from computer-generated lists. For example,

the CRA’s computer system compares selected financial information of taxpayers en-gaged in similar businesses or occupations and generates lists of returns with audit po-tential.

Audit projects – The CRA tests the compliance of a par-ticular group of taxpayers, and if the test results indicate that there is significant non-com-pliance within the group, they may audit its members on a lo-cal, regional or national basis.

Leads – The CRA compiles leads from other audits or in-vestigations, as well as infor-mation from outside sources.

Secondary files – The CRA may select files for audit be-cause of their association with other previously selected files.

The selection of GST/HST returns for audit or examina-tion is based on both risk as-sessment and on random file selection.What is the letter writing campaign?

In 2010, the CRA began a campaign of sending letters to Canadian taxpayers, an initia-tive that they claimed would serve a dual purpose: “to educate taxpayers on specific claims they made on their in-come tax and benefit returns, and to provide notice of the CRA’s intent to audit some taxpayers”. If you receive such a letter from the CRA,

you should note that it does not mean that the tax returns that you filed were incorrect. Instead, the CRA maintains that the letter is meant to pro-vide you with an opportunity to request an adjustment should you discover that you claimed some items incorrectly on pre-viously filed returns. Be mind-ful, however, that the letter may also serve as a signal that the CRA is targeting a particu-lar industry sector to audit.What can you expect when you are audited?

If you or your business is se-lected for an audit, you should engage your advisor to be ac-tively involved in the process and to provide any assistance necessary. We can be of the most help if you notify us as soon as you are contacted by the CRA, and prior to provid-ing the CRA with any records or answering any audit ques-tions. You should note that the audit itself will be conducted as either a desk audit, where an auditor will review your re-cords at a CRA office, or as a field audit, which will take place at your home or busi-ness location. An audit usually includes an examination of the following documents:

Information on file at the CRA, including the return(s) selected for audit, any related financial statements, audit re-ports from any previous au-

dits, as well as any other infor-mation the CRA may have on file; and

Business records that you maintain, including your ledgers, journals, bank ac-counts, sales invoices, pur-chase vouchers and expense accounts.

Generally, the time frame of an audit depends on the state of your financial information and records, as well as the complexity of the issues be-ing examined. Note that you will be given an opportunity to consider and respond to any issues identified by the auditor. Where the CRA pro-poses adjustment(s), you will be allowed, in most cases, 30 days to respond. The CRA will consider the explanations and responses you provide before finalizing the audit. Where an adjustment is made to your return, the CRA will issue a notice of reassessment to you.

Where an adjustment re-sults in an increase in the bal-ance of tax that you owe, the CRA assures taxpayers that it will provide an estimate of the amount before a reassessment is issued. If you disagree with the notice of reassessment issued by the CRA, you have the right to object to it by filing a notice of objection. For indi-viduals or testamentary trusts, the time limit for filing an ob-jection is on or before the day that is the later of the day that is one year after the taxpayer’s filing-due date for the year and 90 days after the sending of the notice of reassessment. A corporate taxpayer or a non-testamentary trust must serve the notice of objection within 90 days after the notice of re-assessment was sent.

As detailed on the CRA website, you may apply for an extension to file a notice of objection; however, the appli-cation to do so must be made within one year of the sending of the notice of assessment or reassessment, and accep-tance of a notice of objection filed late is at the discretion of the CRA. What can you do to prepare for an audit?

There are many things that you can do to ensure that you are well prepared in the event that you or your business is selected for audit. Here are some key items to consider:

Maintain good records: Have the receipts and docu-mentation to support your claims ready in case you or your business is selected for review. You are required to keep your records and sup-porting documents and finan-cial information for at least

six years. You should note that if you keep electronic re-cords, you must retain them in an “electronically readable format” for this time frame as well. Certain records, such as your general ledger or direc-tor’s minutes for a corporation, must be kept longer. Remem-ber that well-kept records will likely reduce the time required to complete the audit.

Be knowledgeable and ask questions: Before the audi-tor begins the audit, confirm what taxation years are under review and what records he or she will require. This will assist you in having the required in-formation compiled and ready when the auditor arrives.

Know your rights: Don’t give the auditor free reign over your files. Understand your rights as a taxpayer and don’t hesi-tate to exercise them, when necessary.

Understand the information you are providing: Carefully review all information provided to the CRA and ensure that you are not providing more in-formation than requested.

Be courteous and business-like: It is important to cooper-ate with the CRA and provide them with the information they request. Responding promptly and professionally to all corre-spondence received from the CRA may make the process go more smoothly.

Count on your BDO advi-sor: Take comfort in knowing that your BDO advisor can provide you with assistance at every step of the audit pro-cess. We can help you under-stand the auditor’s questions and recommendations, and can assist with the negotiation process. We can also assist you if you need to file a notice of objection. Summary

There is little doubt that a tax audit can be an experience that many people dread. How-ever, by preparing yourself for the potential that you may in fact face one, you will be able to handle it without anxiety. If the auditor comes knocking — you will be ready.

If you have any questions re-lated to the foregoing, please contact our office at 905-576-3430.

This material is general in nature and should not be re-lied upon to replace the re-quirement for specific profes-sional advice.

This article is from a BDO Tax Factor 2013-02, a publica-tion by BDO Canada © BDO 2013.

Submitted by Clyde Catton, BBA, CA, Tax Partner

Clyde Catton

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