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Vicki Beard's Bio

Farm and Factory – I was raised on a farm near Orillia where I was involved in the 4-H club, Brownies and Girl Guides. My early employment experiences include work as a dairy herd manager and production work in a factory. As a factory worker I participated in contract negotiations with the Sheet Metal Workers Union at Hunter Enterprises, Orillia ON. After moving to Guelph in 1982, I graduated from the Materials Management Course at Conestoga College (Guelph campus). This led to a front office job in a factory.

Small Business –I started Brushcuts Pet Grooming in 1988. My first shop was in Guelph, and I later expanded to Cambridge and Brampton. My small business experience taught me the importance of financial planning and customer relations. My ability to listen, communicate and negotiate with customers helped me resolve what at times seem to be insurmountable conflicts arising from the wants of pet owners and the needs of their pets. 
After running Brushcuts for 18 years, I am now in the process of retiring and turning the business over to a colleague. 

Instructor -- While in the grooming business, I offered basic grooming and pet care courses to the general public through continuing education services at Conestoga College in Guelph. I was also actively involved in student intern programs offered through College Heights, Guelph Collegiate Vocational Institute and an overseas student program. I trained and mentored at least eight individuals in pet grooming and helped them get started in their own businesses.

Committee and Board Work – In my early years in Guelph I lived in Windfield Co-op where I participated in the maintenance and mediation committees and the board (an elected position); serving as Board president for the allowed one term. I took CMHC maintenance training and assumed responsibilities in the maintenance committee for setting and implementing repair and maintenance goals and budgets for 70 units. For the mediation committee I took mediation training provided by CMHC and worked to resolve issues between Co-op residents. Board responsibilities included developing and implementing long term goals under guidelines set out by CMHC as well as considering and implementing committee recommendations. As President of the Board of Directors I had signing authority, chaired Board meetings and was responsible to the membership for my actions and decisions.

Community Volunteer – When my own family was young, I and other mothers associated with Big Brothers became aware of how difficult it was for children from poorer homes to get involved in organized sports, so we started a non-profit group called Kids Can Play, a community organization that continues today. The goal of this group is to supply children with the finances, equipment and support needed for them to take part in community activities.
I have been an active member of The Guelph and Wellington County Master Gardeners for the last six years working as coordinator of their popular spring plant sale for several years. My own garden has been featured on several garden tours in the City.
I am also an active member of the Guelph Studio Art Tour where I am head of the Publicity Committee. This group organizes the popular November Art Tour each year to provide public exposure to some of the City’s great artists.

Grandmother -- I have been a home owner for the last 11 years in Ward 2 at 207 Speedvale Ave East. I live there with my spouse Mike Fortin. I have two step sons, two sons, one daughter and three wonderful grandchildren.

 

Authorized by the CFO for the Vicki Beard Campaign

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