Business Headlines / March 18, 2005

Time-shared cars an affordable alternative   Sometimes the cost of owning a car can outweigh the convenience, and that’s when car-sharing services like Ottawa’s Vrtucar come in.   ‘Mom and Pop’ video stores still doing well   Under constant pressure from aggressive chain-store advertising campaigns such as Blockbuster’s recent “no late fees” gimmick, certain ‘Mom and Pop’ video stores in Ottawa have survived by creating a niche market of hard-to-find videos and onsite expertise.   Advisory committee gives small business voice at city hall   A new business advisory committee will aim to give small- and medium-sized businesses a voice at city hall, but not all owners are convinced that the committee is worthwhile.   Business Beat: Provincial task force shows much concern, little action   Small business needs help, but there seems to be little in sight.