ST. JACOBS, Ont. — As national sponsors of SickKids Foundation, Home Hardware dealers are once again this year stocking a special charity calendar in support of SickKids Foundation. Established a decade ago, the campaign has raised more than $1 million for SickKids Foundation during that time. So far this year, $128,000 has been raised from sales of the 2010 calendar and a cheque was recently presented as a charitable donation to Ted Garrard, president and CEO of SickKids Foundation. MONTREAL — Richelieu Hardware Ltd. has closed two new acquisitions in North America and signed an agreement to complete another acquisition that should close in January 2010. Richelieu has acquired Calgary-based Paint Direct, a distributor of finishing products, stains, lacquers and various other products. In the United States, Richelieu has acquired Woodland Specialties in Syracuse, N.Y., which distributes hardware products, high-pressure laminates, and other products for kitchen cabinet makers. TORONTO — Certainteed launched a “Be Certain” brand building initiative throughout Canada at the recent Construct Canada trade show. There, the giant distributor was showcasing a range of products which aimed to reflect the new slogan. “Be Certain is an easy and recognizable way to raise awareness of our brand name with the trades and consumers throughout the provinces,” says Eric Nilsson, vice-president of corporate marketing for CertainTeed Corp. The campaign will be rolled out in further promotions, as well.