Business Examiner Vancouver Island - October 2020 by Business Examiner News Group

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OCTOBER 2020

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Thanks for stopping by this edition of the Business Examiner Vancouver Island! October has been a crazy month, and weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re excited to see that the economy seems to by steadily picking up steam. This month weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re digging deep into the top commercial, industrial and multi-family construction projects across the Central/North Island with our 2020 VIREB Commercial Building Awards coverage. Also in this issue are great features on HYAS Infosec, Parkshore Projects, Flurer Smokery, Saywell Construction, Monterra Builders, our Chamber of Commerce reports from across the region, aquaculture processor features, Who Is Suing Whom, Movers and Shakers, and much more. John MacDonald, Director, Business Development

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NEWS UPDATE

13 COMOX VALLEY

NANAIMO COLUMN

CAMPBELL RIVER

SEPTEMBER 2020

14 PARKSHORE PROJECTS LTD

17 PORT ALBERNI

16 18 WHO IS SUING WHOM

PROTECTING YOUR BUSINESS

20 HYAS INFOSEC FIGHTS CYBERCRIME

24 MONTERRA BUILDS STONELEIGH STATION

23 COWICHAN VALLEY

30 CROWN PACIFIC BUILDS 575 RESIDENCES

SAYWELL CONTRACTING

AQUACULTURE

32 OPINION

36 WESTMARK EARNS 3 AWARDS

44 MOVERS & SHAKERS

38 VIREB WRAP UP

SEPTEMBER 2020

NEWS UPDATE

BRITISH COLUMBIA HOTEL ASSOCIATION AND TOURISM VANCOUVER ISLAND PARTNER CAMPAIGN BRITISH COLUMBIA – The British Columbia Hotel Association (BCHA) and Tourism Vancouver Island (TVI) have partnered to assist Canadian “snowbirds” – residents who travel to warmer destinations during colder months – who are choosing to come to Vancouver Island this fall/winter due to COVID-19 restrictions precluding travel to the United States. The partnership has created a dedicated resource for long-stay visitors who plan to “Venture West This Winter” at VancouverIsland.Travel/Snowbirds to promote dispersion of business ae themselves on safety protocols for the communities they will be visiting and plan ahead to spend their extended time on the Island living like a local. Tourism Vancouver Island amplifies the recovery marketing work of its industry partners, including Destination Greater Victoria, who will extend promotion to potential Canadian visitors this winter through its own dedicated marketing campaign. TVI and BCHA hope this partnership will serve as a successful model that can be replicated across the province by the British Columbia Regional Tourism Secretariat; a partnership between BC’s five Regional Destination Management Organizations, including Tourism Vancouver Island, Thompson Okanagan Tourism Association, Kootenay Rockies Tourism Association, Cariboo Chilcotin Coast Tourism Association and Northern British Columbia Tourism Association.

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NORTH ISLAND 9-1-1 CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF SERVING THE COMMUNITY CAMPBELL RIVER – From mountainous areas to forested landscapes and pristine ocean side communities, North Island 9-1-1 is island decision making for island solutions. For 25 years the North Island 9-1-1 Corporation (NI911) has supported local residents when they needed it most. NI911 manages the provision of 9-1-1 service including dispatching calls for fire, police and ambulance response for six regional districts covering over 60,000 square kilometers over Vancouver Island and portions of the Sunshine Coast. The participating shareholders include Regional District of Mount Waddington, Strathcona Regional District, Comox Valley Regional District, qathet Regional District (excluding Lasqueti Island), Alberni-Clayquot Regional District and District #69 of Regional District of Nanaimo. In 2017, NI911 was successfully awarded the fire dispatch service contract for Peace River Regional District. The Corporation works cooperatively to provide a 9-1-1 system that connects residents to emergency personnel. Agreements are in place with E-Comm for the primary 9-1-1 call answering service and the City of Campbell River for fire dispatch. “Annually over 78,000 calls go to 9-1-1 and NI911 ensures quick, effective service delivery,” explains North Island 9-1-1 President John McNabb. The Corporation, uses state-of-the-art Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) software and a fully IP-based radio system, provides an enhanced fire dispatch service that meets and/or exceeds NFPA 1221 and NENA standards for fire dispatch. Owning and operating the equipment for over 50 fire departments emphasizes the importance NI911 invests on local, community assets.

NEWS UPDATE

COMOX VALLEY AIRPORT COMMISSION ANNOUNCES NEW CEO 8

COMOX VALLEY – The Comox Valley Airport Commission (CVAC) is pleased to announce that Mike Atkins has been named the incoming Chief Executive Officer for the Airport. Mike will take over the duties of Alex Robertson, who has served as acting CEO since Fred Bigelow’s departure for medical leave in November of 2019. He is excited to be joining the Comox Valley Airport Commission, having fallen in love with the Valley during his tenure as the Wing Commander. He brings significant team-building, leadership, crisis and strategic planning experience developed through multiple positions in Search and Rescue and higher headquarters during a 35-year military career. In addition to his command at 19 Wing, he is a former Commanding Officer of 413 Transport and Rescue Squadron, and most recently, the Canadian Defence Advisor to the United Kingdom. Mike’s professional education includes a Bachelor of Engineering (RMC), an MBA (Saint Mary’s) and an MDS(KCL). Atkins starts work January 4th, 2021, to allow sufficient time to transition out of his current role and return to Canada, amidst enhanced pandemic regulations. The Comox Valley Airport Commission is the governing authority for the operation of YQQ. The nine-member Commission is broadly representative of the Comox Valley community and its members are nominated by the City of Courtenay, the Town of Comox, the Village of Cumberland, the Comox Valley Regional District (CVRD), the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce and the Comox Valley Economic Development Society (CVEDS).

MID ISLAND CO-OP AQUIRES 8 “LIQUOR DEPOT” STORES ON VANCOUVER ISLAND NANAIMO – Effective October 8, 2020, Mid Island Consumer Services Co-operative (“Mid Island Coop”) has entered into an agreement to purchase eight (8) Liquor stores located on Vancouver Island from Edmonton based Alcanna Inc. Pending completion of customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals, the transaction is expected to close by the end of October 2020. Included in this acquisition are eight (8) locations, (1) Duncan, (1) Ladysmith, (2) Nanaimo, (2) Parksville, (1) Lantzville and (1) Port Alberni. The Port Alberni location will transition to be locally owned and operated by Alberni District Co-op. This strategic acquisition aligns with Mid Island Co-op’s long term goal of growing and providing our 60,000+ member/owners with increased diversity of services and long term sustainability. The transition of these new stores to the Co-op’s “Mid Island Liquor” brand in early in 2021 will provide the opportunity for Mid Island Co-op members to use their Co-op membership number and earn equity and cashback. SEPTEMBER 2020

NANAIMO

GREEN LIGHT FOR NEW MITSUBISHI DEALERSHIP NANAIMO CHAMBER AWARDS WINNERS ANNOUNCED

MARK MACDONALD A new Mitsubishi car dealership will be built on Kenworth Road, as City Council has unanimously approved variances for the new building at 2348 Kenworth Road, on the former Madill logging equipment manufacturing site. Other dealerships are planned for the area, and companies who have been named so far include European Specialty Automotive which is currently on Northfield Road, and a new location of Galaxy Motors.

Eric Dlamini is managing Zamola Enterprises, which is making inroads into the short-haul moving business on Vancouver Island. They deliver to many locations, including Tofino, Port Hardy, Powell River, and Gabriola Island. Eric, who spent eight years in the British Army, and is also studying to earn his doctorate in Strategic Security, with an emphasis on Intelligence and Counter Terrorism. www.zamola.ca • • • The Vancouver Island University Foundation has created the Michael K. Hooper Award to honour Mike Hooper for his 14 years overseeing the Nanaimo Airport. Hooper and the visionary Board of Directors

Congratulations to Jessica Schaper for starting a new position as a Human Resources Consultant at Coastal Community Credit Union. Happy anniversary to John Lim and his team at Nori Japanese Restaurant near Costco, upon celebrating 10 years in business.

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Eric Dlamini

NANAIMO guided the Airport through its most expansive growth which led to the attraction of WestJet as a primary carrier. Nanaimo Airport surpassed Comox Airport in passenger numbers earlier this year. VIU students who have demonstrated financial need and provided community service in the business, tourism, hospitality, trades or science programs are eligible for the Award.

Hockey Leagueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nanaimo Clippers in the fall, has announced his new position. Tali is now Vice President of Team Operations for the BCHL Coquitlam Express, which will also include a senior management role in owner Fayaz Manjiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s private company as well. Cor y McNabb has joi ned the realtor ranks at RE/MAX of Nanaimo. Cory was for merly w it h 460 Realty.

Long-time Business Examiner marketing representative Josh Higgins has joined the real estate sales team at Rob Grey & Associates under the RE/MAX of Nanaimo banner. Tali Campbell, who announced he was leaving his position as General Manager of the BC

10 Corry McNabb

Charles Bendall is now a Real Estate Advisor at Royal LePage Nanaimo Realty.

VitaCare Natural Health Clinic on Bowen Road welcomes a new Naturopathic Office Assistant, Yvonne Hicks. Forty Creek Cream Liquor has created a new cream liquer called Forty Creek Nanaimo Bar Cream, notes David Allard of Campari Canada. The Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce held their 2020 awards recently online, co-hosted by comedian Steve Patterson. The winners were: Large Business: Alair Homes, Mid-size Business: Woodgrove Centre, Small Business: Longwood Brewery, New Business: Axe and Grind, Restaurant: Mahle House Restaurant

SEPTEMBER 2020

NANAIMO and Drip Coffee Social, Hospitality Operator: P a g e ’s R e s o r t Group, Tourism Operator: Harbour Air, Retailer: Quintessential, Development and D e s i g n : H abitat for Humanity, Builders and Trades: B. Gallant Josh Higgins Homes, Au t om o t i v e : T i m’s Automotive Repair and Used Car Sales, Financial Services: Island Savings, Creative Service: Nanaimo Magazine and Voyager, Creative Service: Mosaic Information Technologies, Arts and Entertainment: Nanaimo Museum, Health Care Service: Nanaimo Child Development Centre, Corporate and Social Responsibility: Coastal Community Credit Union, Social Enterprise: Coco Café, Not For Profit Organization: BC SPCA, Inclusive Employer: Nanaimo Association for Community Living. The Above and Beyond Award went to Julie Bevan, the Manager of Culture and Events at the City of Nanaimo and former Executive Director of the Nanaimo Art Gallery.

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CAMPBELL RIVER

TIDEMARK COLLABORATION OFFERS TWO TV SHOWS

The Campbell River & District Chamber of Commerce has joined forces with the Tidemark Theatre to launch not one, but two TV shows. eXplore Conversations and exploration of the arts, community & MARY RUTH SNYDER culture — the expansive and diverse array of our lives on northern Vancouver Island. Insights & Business A wide-ranging discussion with industry professionals from across the business spectrum. The Tidemark Theatre, like many other businesses, had to pivot to a new reality due to the global pandemic. Thanks to a grant from the Island Coastal Economic Trust (ICET) and support from the BC Touring Council (BCTC) they were able to invest in digital broadcast equipment providing the ability to produce top quality productions as well as live streaming of shows, lectures and debates. Audiences will now be able to continue to enjoy their favourite artists, plays, recitals from the comfort and safety of their own home because of this extraordinary investment at the Tidemark Theatre. This collaboration is the joint brainchild of Jim Kent, Manager of the Tidemark Theatre and Mary Ruth Snyder, Executive Director for the Campbell River & District Chamber of Commerce. Jim had worked in community TV previously in his career and Mary Ruth had worked for Shaw TV North Island for seven years prior to her arrival at the chamber 14 months ago. Their symbiotic professional experience has proven invaluable for their new joint venture. Jim Kent says, “We needed a way to keep our incredible team employed as well as provide our loyal audiences access to all the amazing shows and programming we have become known for. Working with the chamber is a tremendous avenue

to expand our offerings and, at the same time provide a platform for people, community groups and businesses to engage with the whole of Campbell River and the district.” Mary Ruth adds, “Business cannot exist in a vacuum. We are so fortunate to have dynamic businesses along with an extremely diverse and engaging community that support each other every chance they get. These two shows provide a place for their voices, opinions and experiences to be shared widely expanding our community’s dialogue which can only enhance our vibrancy.” The shows can be found on the Tidemark Theatre’s YouTube channel, the chamber’s YouTube Channel, as well as Shaw Spotlight’s website. They are also being aired on Shaw Spotlight Channel 4 on Shaw Cable and Channel 105 on BlueSky. Beginning Wednesday November 4th each new show will be broadcast live to Facebook Wednesdays at 1:00 pm. Mary Ruth Snyder is Executive Director of the Campbell River and District Chamber of Commerce.

SEPTEMBER 2020

COMOX VALLEY

BUY LOCAL…GETTING THE MESSAGE OUT….

DIANNE HAWKINS

Buy Local, that’s the message our local business community is shouting from the rooftops! Actually, it’s most likely found on social media through Facebook posts and Instagram. Some have kept us laughing and entertained as we learned to navigate new protocols and adjust to the changing landscape that was forced upon us.

Thanks for the smiles. Business owners and entrepreneurs are survivors and innovators. It has certainly proven to be particularly true over these past few months. Preparing to write this article, I took a glance back at some of the campaigns that have been launched by various businesses and organizations over the last few years. The message is still the same – Buy Local! The Chamber has orchestrated Buy Local campaigns such as I Spy Comox Valley, Rapping up a Comox Valley Christmas (local business owners and their staff sang their way through that campaign) check it out on Youtube – it’s quite entertaining! ABC Printing has a door sticker and notepads they proudly offer to local businesses for display - Buy Local and Grow our Economy. There was the “Don’t put your money where your mouse is!” campaign which focussed on educating locals to shop locally, not online -- now the message is it’s okay, put your money where you mouse is BUT do it locally! The recent #StayStrongComoxValley campaign was introduced by the Chamber and sponsored by 97.3 the Eagle and the CV Record. The Pattison Group (97.3 The Eagle) also offered “ThingsThatAreOpen” for businesses looking to post their hours and accessibility for customers. The Campbell River Chamber and Comox Valley Chamber invited locals to #explorenextdoor in August to promote local tourism. First Credit Union spearheaded the Loyal2Local Challenge during the first few months of COVID to encourage locals to shop locally. Most recently, the Chamber and 98.9 Jet FM launched a Shop Local campaign with $200 gift certificates being awarded every Friday to local shoppers up until December 18. It’s true, you can’t buy happiness, but you can buy local, and that really is the same thing! There are so many small business owners in the Comox Valley who support our kids, the disadvantaged, seniors, animal

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rescues, food banks, food security, I could go on. The point is, they are what drive our economy. Small business, THEY account for the health of economic development in our community and our province. They MATTER. This year, I invite our community to commit to shopping LOCAL, support a small business who supports our community. Keep the money at home, where it belongs, in the Comox Valley. For more information on what’s happening locally and advocacy at the Chamber, give us a call or email our CEO at dhawkins@comoxvalleychamber.com – We’re here for you! #Restart Comox Valley

PARKSHORE PROJECTS LTD. PUTS SOUTHEND NANAIMO ON THE MAP AS UNIQUE HOMEOWNER DESTINATION STRONG VISION HELP PARKSHORE TEAM MAKE NANAIMO’S HARBOURVIEW DISTRICT THE NEXT BIG THING

NANAIMO - Michael Parker and partner Bill Xing formed Parkshore Projects Ltd. in 2017 with the specific goal of developing commercial and multi-family buildings in the Southend of Nanaimo. With bold planning and a clear vision, they quickly learned there was a calling for just such an endeavor. Explains Parker, “Bill and I embarked on a land acquisition strategy through 2017 to 2018. Once the land holdings reached critical mass, we hired D’Ambrosio architecture + urbanism from Victoria to design the master plan vision of Parkshore. As Parkshore we launched the first condo project, the Outlook building, a 36-unit five-storey ocean-view condo, which sold out in less than two months. We realized then that there was a serious market for the Southend or as we have rebranded it; The Harbourview District.” Bringing over twenty years in the construction industry, Parker’s experience has only bolstered Parkshore’s profile since then. With over twenty-five employees between development, construction, sales and marketing, today Parkshore is weeks from completion of the Outlook building, and soon breaking ground on Prospect, their next two buildings. Their Principal Architect, Matthew Hansen also has three other buildings in various stages of design. In short, Parkshore is thriving, and with good reason. “We treat each individual condominium as a custom home, describes Parker. “We know that

Michael Parker had over twenty years of construction experience under his belt before launching Parkshore Projects, with a goal of building up and revitalizing Southend Nanaimo.

once we turn over the keys, we want the homeowner to have pride in the finished product they purchased. Also, because our land holdings in the Harbourview District represent nearly 10 years’ worth of development and sales, we are committed to the area and maintaining the quality we have started. The City of Nanaimo has been a big supporter of the design and finish quality and have made it the standard for all developments.”

SEPTEMBER 2020

The Prospect building, seen here in render and set to break ground soon, will be another unique addition to Nanaimo’s burgeoning Harbourview District.

Parker’s respect for the uniqueness of Nanaimo’s Southend was born in the transformation he witnessed as a former resident of Lower Lonsdale in North Vancouver, where he saw the highly-industrialized and rough-edged area bloom into one of the most desirous waterfront communities in Canada. Elaborates Parker, “The geography of Lower

Lonsdale never changed, however, through mindful development the vibrancy and community revitalized the area. We see the same opportunity for the Harbourview District. We aren’t looking to homogenize it. We love the eclectic authenticity of the neighbourhood and the people that live here. There is a real existing pride of community in the area and our goal is to add to that and make it the most desirable neighbourhood in Nanaimo.” A proud BC company, Parkshore is dedicated to highlighting the benefits of multi-family living spaces in Nanaimo by showcasing just how much they offer as a residence, combining unique urban living with access to some of the most beautiful natural environments in Canada. Concludes Parker, “Combined with the worryfree turnkey ability to go away for the weekend or more, it really is a lifestyle that, although perhaps reducing your actual living area, can very much increase your quality of life.” www.parkshore.ca

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2 COMMERCIAL STRATA UNITS Nanaimo - $1,429,000 North Nanaimo location with Lake Views Updated and fully finished over 3 Levels Current configuration is of Quality

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FOR LEASE - 1,815 SQ. FT.

Central Nanaimo - $13/Sq. Ft. + TN 1,815 Sq. Ft. open Office/Retail space Desirable Location adjacent to Terminal Park Mall Large Paved Parking Lot Current Tenant can Vacate anytime but

space is formally available Jan 2021 Information Portfolio Available

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1,422 Sq. Ft. I-3 Industrial Zoned Space - Northfield Industrial Park, high visibility, 11 ft. ceilings, 3 Washrooms, Ample Parking for Clients $14/SF + TN Downtown Nanaimo Commercial Space - 1,712 Sq. Ft. located in the Dorchester Hotel, fantastic location across from the Waterfront, Great visibility $1,700/Month + Hydro & Property Taxes 2,033 Sq. Ft. 2nd Floor Office Space – Downtown Nanaimo, T.N. includes HVAC, Hydro & Utilities. Available for Immediate Occupancy $9.50/SF + TN Industrial Property - Cassidy Area - 4,306 Sq. Ft. Quality Office space with heat pump plus .75 Acre of Land. Great Highway Exposure $9.00/SF + TN 2nd Level Light Industrial Space - Diver Lake 1,380 Sq. Ft. Large Open area with full kitchen and staff room. Uses include Office/Production Studio/Printing/Service Industry etc. $950/Month + GST Huge 1, 900 Sq. Ft. Unit with 1,300 Sq. Ft. Bonus Storage area - Large open 2nd level space downtown Nanaimo. Incl. Hydro/HVAC - $2,200/Month + GST 800 Sq. Ft. Office Space in Metral Centre - Great Exposure & Fully Accessible Unit, Private Office, Open Configuration 2-piece Washroom $14/SF + TN 1 Acre High Tech Industrial Land - Property is Fenced, gated, level, easy access of side road, Long Term Lease preferred $5,500/Month Gross + GST South Nanaimo Strip Mall - Sub-lease Space Available - Approx. 1,100 Sq. Ft. currently configured as a Retail Grocery Store, Front & Rear Entrances, Shared Washroom $1,800/Month + GST 3,131 Sq. Ft. Large Commercial Building – Prime Central Nanaimo location, COR-3 Zoning allows multiple uses incl. Retail/Restaurant/Office, Vacant with renovations started $14.50/Sq. Ft. + TN 1,340 Sq. Ft. Gallery Row - Currently configured as 2 Separate Units. 840 Sq. Ft. Retail & Showroom space + 500 Sq. Ft. Storage Area. $2,500/Month + GST Vacant Land Available for Lease – .75 of an Acre across from Cassidy Airport, Great for Storage of Vehicles, RV’s etc. $3,000/Month + GST Metral Centre Newly Demised Space – 1,125 Sq. Ft. Open Plan, Bright windows, Rough-In Washroom, Blank Canvas awaiting your ideas $18.00/Sq. Ft. plus T.N.

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POPULAR NEIGHBOURHOOD PUB - NANAIMO Busy High Volume Operation, 175 Seats incl. Patio Full Kitchen, Price includes Inventory $349,000 Information Portfolio Available

CENTRAL NANAIMO INVESTMENT PROPERTY 18,000 Sq. Ft. Building on High Visibility Corner 5 Bed Residence on 2nd Level Plus Multiple Commercial Tenants $2,995,000

NEW COMMERCIAL STRATA UNIT - DUNCAN Suite 103 is 3,250 Sq Ft Main Level Unit-Dakova Square Great Visibility, Close to Downtown $769,900 Residential Suites above

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FOR LEASE - 900 Sq. Ft. Downtown Nanaimo $13/SF + TN 900 Sq. Ft. Corner Unit Perfect for Office or Retail use Exposure on 2 Streets

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BAKERY & CONFECTIONARY BUSINESS - NANAIMO Bakery & Coffee Shop with a Terrific Reputation Highly Visible Corner Location $249,000 Information Portfolio Available

2 PROFESSIONAL UNITS - NORTH NANAIMO Quality Professional Strata Office Units w/Lake Views Paved Parking, Pylon Signage $1,429,000 Information Portfolio Available

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ADVISORY

PROTECTING YOUR BUSINESS & LIVELIHOOD AGAINST THE UNEXPECTED

In the past few months the world has given us a lot of “teachable moments,” including the value of preparing for emergencies. It’s clear that it pays to plan for different situations and have the right preparations in place. Lately, many of my clients have been inspired to evaluate their own business continuity plans. To help inform these conversations, I like to ask if they’ve considered three “what if” scenarios that could adversely affect their business—and their livelihood. What if: 1. There was a natural disaster such as a fire, flood or earthquake that interrupts your business operations? Would you be able to keep paying operating expenses and other bills? 2. The building your business operated in was damaged or destroyed? How would you pay the expenses to replace your equipment or relocate entirely? 3. Something happened to your warehouse or supplier and they couldn’t provide you with the stock you need? Would you be able to attract and keep customers if you weren’t able to fulfill orders? If you’re concerned your business wouldn’t stay afloat in these scenarios, there is a solution—business interruption coverage. Its most valuable benefit is that it works to make your business whole again so that you can get back to generating the income you were prior to the loss. Business interruption coverage reimburses you for lost profits and continued fixed expenses during the time your business is closed (while the premises are being repaired following an insured loss.) Covered expenses may include mortgage payments, taxes, utilities, accounting and legal expenses, interest on loans, salaries and the cost of insurance. Business interruption coverage will even top up your income after you’ve re-opened

Yvonne Jones, CAIB and cover advertising costs to let your clientele know when and where you’ll be back. Did you know that companies that plan for emergencies and have appropriate coverage in place are much more likely to have a successful return to business? If you have questions about business interruption insurance, start by talking over your situation with an insurance expert. Contact me to find out how Coastal Community can help you ensure it’s business as usual. Yvonne Jones, CAIB is a Commercial Insurance Advisor with Coastal Community Insurance Services (2007) Ltd. For more information on business insurance services, call 1.888.741.1010 or book a call back appointment at cccu.ca.

SEPTEMBER 2020

PORT ALBERNI

FULL ON IN PORT ALBERNI I’d like to start this column with a shout-out to the i ntrepid entreprene u rs le ading businesses in these tricky times; the organizations (including municipalities) that have risen to the chalPat Deakin lenge of putting a number of support systems in place for businesses; and, the employees who contribute to the successful functioning of the many different sectors of the economy. There are some truly amazing stories in our own community of how small businesses have adapted and continue to deliver products and services to our citizens. Some of that was covered in a column earlier this year, so this month’s piece will touch on the work being done by a few of the larger companies here. The San Group is investing more than $100 million in new wood-fibre, state-of-the-art processing equipment from different parts of the world. In a sign of the times, engineers and computer technicians from those companies are self-isolating before going on to the work site to get the equipment up and running as it designed to. Much has been made of this huge investment at a time when the industry is otherwise characterized by uncertainty but the owners of the company, Kamal Sanghera and his brother Suki are known to say “we see opportunity in going against the grain”. Then there is Canadian Maritime Engineering (CME) who have doubled their work force of 35 to WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA

71 during the pandemic. In the space of 7 years, owners Daniel Russell and Tony Kennedy have turned the company around to a point where they have 3 separate locations they are working from and are still needing more space. CME, the Port Alberni Port Authority and the City are now doing a full-court press for an investment in a floating drydock which would add another 80 jobs in the 4 and ½ year construction period and another 70 full-time jobs in operations. Significantly CME, North island College and the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council are preparing for 55 Indigenous apprentices. Our Catalyst division of Paper Excellence continues to develop its food grade paper products while employing its full-time workforce of ~ 340 people and the Coulson Group is fighting fires in different parts of the world and taking its clean technology to yet other continents. Next month’s column will be devoted to the huge investment being made here in homes and apartments. In the meantime, Stay Safe. Pat Deakin is the Economic Development Manager for the City of Port Alberni. He can be reached at 250-720-2527 or Patrick_deakin@portalberni.ca

WHO IS SUING WHOM The contents of Who’s Suing Whom is provided by a thirdparty resource and is accurate according to public court documents. Some of these cases may have been resolved by publication date. DEFENDANT 1135270 BC Ltd BC Ltd 616 Kelly Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Affiliati Network Inc CLAIM $423,411

DEFENDANT Cedar General Store 1771 Cedar Rd, Cedar, BC PLAINTIFF Fras, Alexander Anton CLAIM $35,216

DEFENDANT 401721 BC Ltd 1770 Comox Ave, Comox, BC PLAINTIFF Fras, Alexander Anton CLAIM $35,216

DEFENDANT Domcor Health Safety & Security Incorporated 1275A Cypress St , Campbell River, BC PLAINTIFF 247 Pilot Car Services CLAIM $31,787

DEFENDANT Apex Life Labs 616 Kelly Rd, Victoria, BC Affiliati Network Inc CLAIM $423,411

DEFENDANT Dream Home Fencing Ltd 300-736 Broughton St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Allen, Maureen Clara

CLAIM $7,896 DEFENDANT Foster Heating & Cooling 549 Kelvin Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Elan Data Makers CLAIM $25,525 DEFENDANT Gas’n Go Petroleum Ltd 1771 Cedar Rd, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Fras, Alexander Anton CLAIM $35,216 DEFENDANT GB Techniques Co Ltd 7th Flr 1175 Douglas St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF GL Island Development & Construction Ltd CLAIM $31,204

DEFENDANT Hollywood Cinemas Caprice Ltd 1-699 Beach Rd, Qualicum Beach, BC PLAINTIFF Rosewood Theatres Ltd CLAIM $75,000 Island Burgers Inc 2739 30th St, Vernon, BC PLAINTIFF Guness, Doorvarsh CLAIM $8,480 DEFENDANT Omni Foods 40 Cavan St, Campbell River, BC PLAINTIFF Fras, Alexander Anton CLAIM $35,216 DEFENDANT Phillips Power

Region

Project Address

Project Type

Project Details

Contractor/Consultant

Victoria

2275 Quadra St

Consulting services

Crystal Pool HVAC Systems Upgrade - Design Build

Playsted Sheet Metal

Victoria

564 Fisgard St

Consulting services

Project Management Services - Gate of Harmonious Interest

Colliers International

Esquimalt

1343 Woodway Rd

Services

Canadian Forces Housing Maintenance Services

Biamar Building Systems

Saanich

UVic

Mechanical, electrical & plumbing

E-Hut New VRF System

Cascadia West Contracting

Sooke

6671 Wadams Way

Institution new

Library - Sooke Branch

Island West Coast Developments

Capital Regional District

Various locations

Supply

Fence Install

Protex Fence Service

Duncan

2380 Hatchery Rd

Mechanical, electrical & plumbing

Mechanical Ventilation System at Cowichan Hatchery

Archie Johnstone Plumbing & Heating

Cowichan Valley RD

Mill Bay

Institution add/alter

Wharf Float Replacement

Pacific Industrial and Marine

Cowichan Valley RD

Various locations

Supply

Exterior Electronic Signage Supply and Installation

Devlin Electric Sign Co

North Cowichan

Satellite Channel

Consulting services

Wastewater Outfall Relocation

G3 Consulting

Nanaimo

25 Victoria Rd

Institution add/alter

Building Remediation

Saywell Contracting

Nanoose Bay

CFMETR Nanoose Bay

Mechanical, electrical & plumbing

Upgrade Ranch Point B Jetty - High Mast Lighting

Houle Electric

Parksville

489 Alberni Hwy

Institution add/alter

Oceanside Heart Health Clinic

Century Group

Port Alberni

Burde St

Civil work

Pump Station Upgrade

CanWest Mechanical

Cumberland

3699 Bevan Rd

Civil work

Landfill Closure - Phase 2 - Horizontal Landfill Gas Installation

Upland Contracting

SEPTEMBER 2020

WHO IS SUING WHOM 1335 Coventry St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Murray, Dan CLAIM $25,000

40 Cavan St, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Eagleye Residential Services Ltd CLAIM $348,204

202-1007 Fort St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Ives, David CLAIM $34,916

DEFENDANT Power Vac Services 1335 Coventry St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Murray, Dan CLAIM $25,000

DEFENDANT Pross Renovations 895 Kangaroo Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Clarke, Amber CLAIM $9,751

DEFENDANT Precision Island Exteriors Inc 7-2700 Liacono Pl, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Canada Gypsum Management And Supply Inc CLAIM $5,867

DEFENDANT Scott Steel Erectors Inc 22334 Mcintosh Ave, Maple Ridge, BC PLAINTIFF Chinook Scaffold Systems Ltd CLAIM $70,490

DEFENDANT Standingstone Developments Ltd 1127 Fort St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Lang Wilson Practice In Architecture Culture Inc CLAIM $251,737 DEFENDANT Swag Daddy Promos Inc 592 185-911 Yates St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Sadie Baker For Business CLAIM $7,050

DEFENDANT Sea Power Marine Centre Ltd

DEFENDANT Viet Dream Holdings Ltd 9411 Seacote Rd, Richmond,

DEFENDANT Procter Petroleum Ltd

Keeping projects on time and on budget

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BC PLAINTIFF 2204247 AB Ltd CLAIM $24,784 Westpark 120-1900 Richmond Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Ogunbanwo, Oluwapelumi Ayooluwa Deborah CLAIM $5,456 Winchester Galleries Ltd 204-655 Tyee Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Heinsam Holdings Ltd CLAIM $97,656

FEATURE STORY

HYAS INFOSEC INC. TAKES STAND AGAINST INTERNATIONAL CYBERCRIME NANAIMO-BORN STARTUP GROWS INTO DIGITAL SECURITY JUGGERNAUT IN JUST FIVE YEARS

VICTORIA - One would not expect a fight against digital bad actors across the globe to originate from a home office in a small town like Nanaimo. And yet, in 2015, that’s where HYAS Infosec Inc. drew its original battle lines in the perpetual fight against cyberattacks and the criminals who commit them. There, CTO and co-founder Chris Davis, together with partner Steve Heyns launched the now Victoria-headquartered HYAS with a strong and clear vision. “I wanted to establish a cybersecurity company that could preempt attacks, something we call pre-zero-day security, before they could

harm consumers or businesses, in a way that would provide significant efficiency for security analysts and significant value for enterprises,” explains Chris. “I realized the key was understanding attacker infrastructure, and the way malicious actors use assets on the Internet, and to be capable of collecting enough data to become the de facto expert in adversary infrastructure.” If anyone had the pedigree to shoulder this task, it was Chris. A twenty-year veteran of the information security industry, Chris launched a number of successful startup firms, as well as operating

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Business Systems

Nanaimo Parksville Courtenay Victoria

(866) 248-4251

AGScanada.com

SEPTEMBER 2020

FEATURE STORY in senior roles with cyber security companies, amongst them as Director of Threat Intelligence at Damballa, Inc. and Endgame, both in Atlanta, Georgia, Senior Security Consultant for Global Information Security Assurance at Dell’s headquarters in Round Rock, Texas, and as technical advisor for The Citizen Lab in Toronto, an organization focused on global security, human rights and information and communication technologies. Chris was also instrumental in dismantling the Mariposa botnet, a complex malware scheme comprising one of the largest networks of hijacked computers on record. More than fifteen-million PCs in nearly every country were compromised, with infiltration of massive corporations and government computers worldwide, including numerous Canadian banks. For his troubles, Chris became the first Canadian and one of very few non-FBI employees to receive the FBI Director’s Award of Excellence. In short, Chris knew his stuff. Many organizations struggle to respond to attacks, playing an online version of “whack-amole” where security teams plug security holes only after discovering an attack, essentially entering a cycle of defensive response rather than offensive deterrence. The destruction wrought by repeated attacks can create a snowball effect of lost revenue and reputation difficult to overcome. Largely organized criminal gangs and repeat offenders, these bad actors relentlessly pursue their targets for illicit profit. HYAS helps enterprises get ahead of the attackers through a superior understanding of their infrastructure so they can block attacks before they breach the walls. “HYAS plays in the cybersecurity space, where criminals are always scheming new means to steal,” elaborates Chris. “The Internet uses a set of protocols called the Domain Name System (DNS), similar to a phonebook of web addresses, to ensure information passes between intended sender and recipient. HYAS has a superior understanding of attacker DNS infrastructure. We help enterprises understand WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA

HYAS CTO and Co-founder Chris Davis was recognized with the FBI Director’s Award of Excellence, and named one of Microsoft’s Digital Crime Unit Global Heroes in 2011 for taking down the ‘Mariposa’ botnet that infected millions of computers worldwide.

attacks, and how to preempt future ones. HYAS observes DNS network queries to websites and blocks attempts to reach “bad” websites with a questionable reputation, or that may be utilized for malware command and control or phishing.” These tactics keep a variety of sensitive information out of the hands of criminals, including banking and personal information of citizens, and the tools organizations and governments use to protect sensitive data and vital digital and physical infrastructure. One of the more nefarious schemes saw HYAS discover highly-targeted cyberattacks against France’s nuclear power stations, rail system, and additional critical SEE HYAS | PAGE 22

FEATURE STORY HYAS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

infrastructure. HYAS traced the attacks to a single individual in Morocco, providing details of their investigation to French authorities via the US Embassy in Paris. With success like this, it stands to reason HYAS has grown by leaps and bounds over its relatively short existence. Since receiving its initial seed funding from global investment management firm Wesley Clover, to being awarded $6.2 million from Microsoft’s venture capital arm M12 in 2019, today HYAS employs a team of almost thirty, with a growing clientele across three continents and multiple countries. Their customers include two of the Fortune 5 enterprises and numerous Fortune 100 enterprises, from financial services firms, insurance companies, large technology firms and federal governments. Even with an expanding international profile, HYAS remains connected to its BC roots and Canada as a whole, drawing from an

exceptional pool of technical talent coming from provincial universities and other Canadian institutions. And, it still maintains a small office in its birthplace of Nanaimo. With the cybersecurity market at around $120 billion USD annually and cyberattacks rising, HYAS and its partners are never short of work, and it remains dedicated to expanding its product portfolio with innovative, disruptive technologies to help enterprises block attacks before they can happen. Concluded Chris, “We will continue to capitalize on our strength in threat intelligence, and move into new spaces allowing us to better combat cyber fraud, hunt for threats, proactively respond to cyber incidents and pinpoint perpetrators.” As Chris noted to Fortune Magazine in a recent interview, “My drive is to locate the bad guy.” The business of being one of those bad guys seems an increasingly dubious path. www.hyas.com

SEPTEMBER 2020

COWICHAN VALLEY

BUILDING RESILIENCE TO THRIVE ONLINE TRAINING

SONJA NAGEL The Duncan Cowichan Chamber joins 35 Chambers from across the province in launching a 6-week online training program “Building Resilience to Thrive” for Small Business Month. The program is powered by the BC Chamber network, in partnership with UVIC’s Gustavson School of Business. Offered as a COVID-19 recovery certificate, the 6-week program (one hour weekly), delivered by award-winning professors Dr. Mark Colgate and Prof. Brian Leacock, will be presented in three cohorts between November and March 2021. The program will offer relief to businesses, helping to mitigate the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic by teaching them how to adapt their business models, re-engage customers, and adjust workplace cultures. Seminars will cover: Power of Context – Unconscious Bias, Emotional Intelligence, The Power of Coaching in Business, Hire and manage a diverse team, Improve experiences for colleagues and customers, Adapt your service strategy for better outcomes. T he Bu i ld i ng Resi l ience to T h rive WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA

program, supported by Western Economic Diversification Canada, will focus on the three key themes of Strive, Build, and Create. The curriculum will help SMEs be the best they can be, build a strong team, and create value with their customers. Weekly seminars will be supplemented by facilitated Resiliency Roundtables to bring local SMEs together in smaller groups online and offline to anchor and support the curriculum. The 6-week program is offered to individuals at a minimal registration fee of $35.00 per participant for Chamber members and $70.00 per participant for non-members, to ensure cost isn’t a barrier during the pandemic. The program will be offered in three intakes: November 3 – December 8 (Tuesdays 11 a.m. to noon), January 12 – February 16 (Tuesdays 11 a.m. to noon), February 24 – March 31 (Wednesdays 11 a.m. – noon) For more information about this not-to-bemissed training opportunity, connect with the Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce or any of the participating island Chambers. Sonja Nagel is the Executive Director of the Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce. http://www.duncancc.bc.ca/ www.duncancc.bc.ca

FEATURE STORY

Stoneleigh Station in Cumberland

MONTERRA BUILDERS’ STONELEIGH STATION A FINALIST IN TOWNHOUSE CATEGORY CUMBERLAND – One of Monterra Builders’ latest projects, Stoneleigh Station, was named a Finalist in the 13th Annual Vancouver Island Real Estate Board Commercial Building Awards on September 30. Stoneleigh Station, at 2607 Kendal Avenue was a Finalist in the Townhouse category. The 84 unit project was built and sold within two years, and it all contains mid to high quality finishes. T he exterior face of the buildings have

hardiplank and cedar for an attractive finish. The interiors are finished with quartz counters, vinyl flooring, a white washed mantle, and a feature wall in the mudroom/entrance. The project also has a playground for children with a small speeder car that has been finished for safety, and it also keeps with the train theme. Since establishing themselves as Monterra in the Comox Valley, their team is continually growing and striving toward future ventures.

Congratulations Monterra Projects Another successful project, helping the Comox Valley grow!

Alana Adamschek, CPA, CA | 250.338.5464 | alana.adamschek@mnp.ca Stoneleigh Station Cumberland, BC

MNP.ca

SEPTEMBER 2020

FEATURE STORY

It is their promise to provide outstanding service and the highest quality home at the most reasonable price. As a family business in the Comox Valley, Monterra appreciates and cares about the community around them. Their office is located on 5th Street in the heart of Courtenay, where they recently renovated 9,000 square feet. They understand the value of aesthetic and quality buildings in their town and they use this as an opportunity to support other small businesses by providing them with an updated space at an affordable price. Their office is also situated here. From design to development, the team at Monterra provides an exceptional building experience. With a passion for quality and detail, they have been constructing multi-family developments and designing custom homes to meet their customers’ specific needs. They focus on building relationships with their clients from the onset of the design process, throughout the stages of construction, and continue beyond completion. Their educated staff will walk customers through the progression of construction to ensure it is as smooth as possible. They are committed to service that extends beyond completion. Some of Monterra’s key points are: SERVICE ORIENTED The team at Monterra cares about people. Whether it is for clients, or as a community, they will go above and beyond expectations.

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ATTENTION TO DETAIL During the construction process, they take care of their client’s home and ensure a high standard of quality work. They work hard to maintain their reputation. BUILT GREEN They believe in doi ng t hei r pa r t to minimize their impact on the environment. Their team is Built Green certified and they provide clients with information and options to build an environmentally friendly home. www.monterrabuilders.ca

Proud supporter of Monterra Projects, congratulations on your success! Qualicum Beach - Campbell River P: 250.703.2580 E: info@ventairhvac.ca www.ventairhvac.ca

Congratulations to Monterra Projects on all your success!

On Budget... On Time

Serving the Comox Valley & North Island for over 25 Years

AQUACULTURE

SEAFOOD PROCESSOR SEES BRIGHT FUTURE FROM PORT ALBERNI FLURER SMOKERY LTD. RELOCATED FROM CAMPBELL RIVER TO PROCESS AND SMOKE WEST COAST PRODUCT

PORT ALBERNI – Flurer Smokery Ltd. has landed on the Port Alberni waterfront after over 10 years in Campbell River, and they envision a bright future processing and smoking west coast fish and seafood. Kelly Flurer, who owns the company with husband Brian, says their location, at 3003140D Harbour Road – the former Port Fish building, now known as Dock Plus – means docking fishboats are just 40 feet away from their front door. “It’s quite an opportunity for a number of businesses in the community to have a federally registered building to operate out of,” she says. “For us, we’ve always done a lot of wild and farmed fish, but also we’ve done a lot of custom work. We see great potential here working within the industry, with First Nation bands around the island, sport fishers and aquaculture companies.” Flurer Smokery Ltd. closed their Campbell River operation on January 15, and began preparing for the move to Port Alberni. Then COVID-19 struck, which delayed renovations in their new location, for which they obtained their federal certification two months ago. “A lot of our regular customers would have been closed through COVID, so we wouldn’t have had a lot of sales anyway,” she notes. “The down-side was we couldn’t get set up until July 1, as the crews were delayed.” Flurer Smokery Ltd. does custom, wholesale and retail work, everything from primary processing to value-added and ready-to-eat, as well as smoked products. They are mainly focused on fin fish, including all different

Kelly and Brian Flurer own and operate Flurer Smokery Ltd.

species of salmon, halibut, tuna, ling cod, black cod (sable fish), and even sturgeon. Sturgeon is being grown at a little hatchery on Great Central Lake, after acquiring smolts from Vancouver Island University, “so they’re looking to having us do their processing here.” “We have a product called FINS – it’s our version of a nugget of smoked salmon,” she adds. “Most companies cut little squares and call them nuggets, but we cut ours into triangles and call them FINS. We’ve had a really great response.” Now that they’ve relocated, Flurer says they

SEPTEMBER 2020

AQUACULTURE plan on focusing on what they did originally: The smoking of fin fish. “We will eventually get back into shellfish, oysters, mussels. . .,” she says. “Native bands come to us to have us smoke their fish. That’s a real compliment, that’s for sure.” Seafood shops, bakeries, and sushi chefs utilize their products. Everything they do is hand-cut and hand-boned, and it’s all local. “It’s really a labour of love for us,” she adds. “We put love in every bite, and our customers tell us they can taste the love in every bite. That’s our slogan.” Flurer Smokery Ltd. is nationally and internationally certified, so they can ship product across Canada, the United States and throughout the world. Dock Plus also has a blast freezer, storage space

and ice sales, which Flurer Smokery Ltd. will be managing, besides their regular operations. “Now we can produce the ice right here on the dock and get them right out of the ice house and straight into the boat. It will give the fishermen a chance to pay a little less for ice, because they’re not having it shipped into town by truck.” They currently have five employs and anticipate having as many as 15-20 by mid-summer next year as volumes increase. “We feel really optimistic. We feel that now that we’re in the Port Alberni area, we have a lot more access to the wild fishery right at our front door, and we can buy direct from the fishermen without going through brokers and other companies. We should be a lot better positioned with a broader range of products we can offer.”

FUNDING AVAILABLE Opens to new applications on January 4, 2021

Connect with us at the Virtual BC Seafood Festival Trade Show on November 17 - 18. Reach out to join our free seafood workshop in December.

Traceability Adoption Program Cost share funding is available for items including:

Consultant fees

Traceability systems

Radio Frequency Barcode readers Identification (RFID) readers / printers

For more information on how to apply: Website bctraceability.ca |

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Email bctraceability@ca.pwc.com

Staff training

Call 604 484 3490

AQUACULTURE

The Dirom family, from left: Jordan, Bruce, Carol, Carly and Dylan.

HARDY BUOYS DEVELOPS INNOVATIVE SHELF-STABLE PRODUCT PORT HARDY COMPANY’S SMOKED SALMON NOW HAS A ONE YEAR SHELF LIFE, WITHOUT REFRIGERATION PORT HARDY – Hardy Buoys has been a busy operation for many years, but the COVID-19 pandemic caused a slowdown that provided valuable downtime to help the

company reposition itself for the future. Bruce and Carol Dirom, who opened the fish processing and smoking operation 26 years ago, used the three week shutdown time to SEPTEMBER 2020

AQUACULTURE develop a new ‘shelf-stable’ product that could revolutionize their business for years to come. “This is a game changer for us. This smoked salmon product does not require refrigeration, and it has a one year shelf life,” says Bruce, adding their Candied Salmon Jerky comes in three flavors, original, maple and garlic/pepper, while their traditional hotsmoked candied salmon nuggets come in several other flavours. There are other shelf stable products still in the research and development stage that they plan to add to their newly launched online shopping platform later in 2021, including Salmon Pepperoni Stix. “We have lab reports to prove the science for how this process is done, and we’re continually monitoring the product with the lab,” Bruce adds. For the past three years, Hardy Buoys was producing salmon jerky under an Oregon-based company’s brand, but once COVID-19 hit they were directed to stop production immediately because the company needed to concentrate on their U.S. seafood brand interests. Dirom says although the sudden loss of revenue stream was very challenging for Hardy Buoys, the production and product experience gained gave them the confidence and courage to move forward with the product under their own brand. “It is far too expensive to ship product that is perishable,” Dirom notes. “Now, our new product goes into a pouch with an oxygen absorber that basically consumes any oxygen left in the bag, making the product non-perishable. He adds that although the process is fairly labour intensive, they’re researching packing equipment that will allow them to produce more without adding much more staff. They currently have 40 employees. Hardy Buoys is launching a shopping centre website this November that further opens up the Canadian market, and also provides WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA

an open door to shipping product into the United States. It’s the latest metamorphosis for the company, which started out making candied smoked salmon nuggets, moved into processing fish and wholesaling product to other companies to use under their own labels. An overly competitive western Canadian market nudged the original Hardy Buoys brand into the background. “This is our real way to take our own brand back into the marketplace,” he states. “We know this product is excellent.” Hardy Buoys custom processes salmon, black cod and albacore tuna, and they produce their own smoked products mainly with Atlantic farmed salmon from local Mowi Canada West farms. “We rely on farmed salmon,” he states. “It’s economical because we can get it fresh daily, and it’s a reliable source, 12 months a year.” Mowi helped get Hardy Buoys operational again during the earlier days of the COVID pandemic. “Mowi came to us and asked if we could produce portions for the food banks they were supplying on the island, all the way down to Nanaimo,” Dirom notes. “That was enough to get our company back up and running, starting with 12 people. It’s a good feeling to know Mowi is continuing to support the food banks, because protein is so important.” Over the past year, an independent buyer based in Nanaimo has been taking Hardy Buoys product and selling it online through Amazon, and Dirom says they’ve strengthened that relationship and are anticipating continued growth. www.hardybuoys.com

FEATURE STORY

five7five Residences in Campbell River

FIVE7FIVE RESIDENCES EARNS VIREB AWARD OF MERIT CAMPBELL RIVER – five7five Residences on 575 Dogwood Street South won an Award of Merit in the 13th Annual Vancouver Island Real Estate Board Commercial Building Awards September 30. Brett Giese, P resident of Crown Pacific Development Corp., which was General

Contractor for the project, said during the virtual presentation that, “We’ve raised the bar for the Campbell River market with the offerings in this property. It includes a beautiful community room with an adjacent roof top patio, and has air conditioning throughout all the units. It’s an amazing building design

SEPTEMBER 2020

FEATURE STORY

from WA Architecture and they delivered a great design for us once again. Our team has executed a great project.” The team went above and beyond to make this building as energy efficient as possible by including high efficiency windows complete with integrated passive air vents, EIFs stucco with up to eight-inch insulated panel substrate, high efficiency exterior insulated roof system, LED lighting throughout all suites and common areas and high efficiency WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA

mini split heats pumps with inverter technology installed in each suite. In addition to these energy efficient offerings, all suites are well appointed with floor to ceiling cabinets, quartz counter tops, stainless steel appliances, designer window coverings and large private balconies. To build on Veyron’s “a community within” philosophy, this building includes an expansive roof top patio for all residents to take advantage of panoramic mountain views along with an attached fully furnished indoor community lounge. This property also boasts a community garden and secured bike storage within the immaculately kept grounds. Crowne Pacific Development Corp is a Vancouver Island based development and construction company known for its expertise and integrity with a proven track record of award-winning design. www.crownepacific.com

Congratulations to Crowne Pacific on all your success! P: 250.337.9100 E: info@cvcedar.com

Congratulations! Travelers Canada congratulates our friends at Crowne Pacific Development Corp. for being named a Finalist at the VIREB Commercial Building Awards. Well done!

travelerscanada.ca The Dominion of Canada General Insurance Company, St. Paul Fire and Marine Insurance Company (Canada Branch), and Travelers Insurance Company of Canada are the Canadian licensed insurers known as Travelers Canada. © 2020 Travelers Canada. All rights reserved. Travelers and the Travelers Umbrella logo are registered trademarks of The Travelers Indemnity Company in the U.S. and other countries. TC-1057 New 10-20

OPINION

THE NDP IS INCAPABLE OF SPURRING AN ECONOMY RECOVERY

MARK MACDONALD Appointing Dr. Bonnie Henry to lead the province’s Coronavirus pandemic was a stroke of political genius for the NDP. Taking an expert within the medical profession to oversee something within the medical field the NDP recognizes they are clearly not expert in gave Premier John Horgan the best of both worlds: If she is successful, the NDP can take credit; if she fails, they can blame her. Most British Columbians believe Henry has done an admirable job of handling COVID-19. Whether the number of deaths and casualties from the pandemic outnumbers the ancillary damage, mental health issues, substance-abuse crises, and yes, even death, that are a direct result of isolating healthy society remains to be seen. Eventually, the numbers

will reveal all of that. It’s a pity that the NDP won’t use the same strategy within finance. It is clear to most everybody BUT the NDP that they don’t know how to grow an economy or create an environment in which free enterprise flourishes. If they did recognize their weakness, they could be inclined to search outside the borders of their own never-operated-a-successful-business-themselves circle of wagons from which they dictate dogma-filled policy. Prior to the 2013 provincial election, I met with apparent Premier-in-waiting Adrian Dix, along with MLA Doug Routley, for a two and a half hour lunch discussion. Amongst other things, I suggested the same format they’ve now used with Henry: Bring in someone from outside the party – and let them lead. Someone that knows and understands finance from experience – not theory – and let them lead an NDP finance ministry. Dix didn’t commit to the suggestion, but he did manage to snatch defeat out of the jaws of victory and Christy Clark became Premier. There’s no way to know whether he would have done so anyway. By complete chance, I happened to sit across from Finance Minister Carole James earlier this year at a dinner in Hitacu, near Ucluelet. I shared the exact same idea with her as I had with Dix, but to this point, there has been no indication she or the NDP intends to seek such outside expert assistance and guidance.

SEPTEMBER 2020

OPINION Predictably, the NDP “reaches out” to gather information from the business community, only for those canvassed to later realize their suggestions have fallen, again, on deaf ears. Many recognize their apparent willingness to listen is nothing more than political posturing, as the NDP continues to do what it has always done, and apparently always will: Raise taxes and punish business. Alas, there is no-one as blind as those who think they see. And the NDP thinks they understand how an economy actually grows, and that’s the biggest problem. They don’t, and won’t ask for help. The NDP believes business owners and entrepreneurs are motivated primarily by greed, not need. They use terms like “subsidize” to describe tax cuts, which is deliberately misleading, because when taxes are decreased, businesses aren’t given anything – they get to have less tax taken away. The NDP prefers terms like this as it makes it appear to their worker supporters that business owners are either on the dole, or need government assistance in order to grow. In reality, the exact opposite is true. The only way to grow/revive/resuscitate private sector business is for governments to get out of the way and let the entrepreneurial spirit thrive and reward people for their ingenuity, ideas and good old fashioned hard work. The best incentive is not a government grant – it’s a genuine opportunity to get ahead and enjoy the fruits of one’s labours. T h a t i s s o m e t h i n g t h e N D P d o e s n’ t

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understand, and doesn’t appear willing to consider. Many believe the NDP stole the government due to a combination of floor-crossing Darryl Plecas and a coalition with the Greens propped up by former NDP MLA Andrew Weaver. It forced Horgan, a vindictive bully, to appear more congenial. . .a team player. Horgan with a majority? Look out. A second term NDP government without the shackles of a coalition will allow them to afflict the economy with even more ideological punishment. Don’t mistake these thoughts as a plea for a BC Liberal government. Andrew Wilkinson has proven he is not Premier material and has stepped down already. His own push for power within the party has alienated many campaign “worker bees” who sat on the sidelines, waiting for his removal. As polls predicted, the NDP obtained its coveted majority in an election viewed to be unwanted and unneeded – unless you’re Horgan and his heroes, who saw absolute power at their fingertips. As politicians say: A crisis is a terrible thing to waste. So with their new mandate, the NDP will be expected to turn the economy around. It’s not possible on their own, since they refuse to exit their own ideological box. Maybe, just maybe, they’ll humble themselves and search for a “Financial Bonnie Henry” to oversee the economy. One can only hope. Mark MacDonald is President of Communication Ink Media & Public Relations Ltd. and can be reached at mark@communicationInk.ca

FEATURE STORY

Azalea in Courtenay

SAYWELL CONTRACTING BUILDS ANOTHER VIREB AWARD WINNER COURTENAY – Saywell Contracting Ltd. captured an Award of Excellence in the Townhouse category of the 13th Annual Vancouver Island Real Estate Board Commercial Building Awards on September 30. 215-31st Street in Courtenay Karl Binder, Operations Manager for Saywell Contracting, notes Azalea, at 215-31st Street in Courtenay is similar to a project called Magnolia they built in Nanaimo for the same development group. “The counterpart is very similar. It’s two-storey rural housing which fits pretty nicely in the area.” The project offers the Courtenay region a unique townhome style rental product allowing occupants more privacy than a conventional

apartment. The floor layouts are all two-storeys, providing occupants an enhanced level of privacy as they are not living above or below one another. Each unit features their own exterior front door patio entrance, further enhancing occupants privacy. The 34-unit project is constructed into two separate two-story buildings and is centrally located featuring access to all amenities, walking distance to shopping, restaurants, transit and 5-minute drive to downtown. Units range in size between 925 square feet to 1,300 square feet with suite layouts varying from one to two bedrooms plus a large den and 1.5 baths to 2.5 baths. All appliances including in-suite laundry are available in every suite. The SEPTEMBER 2020

FEATURE STORY main floor consists of powder room, storage, open concept living room and kitchen with 9’ ceiling heights. Bedrooms and a full bathroom are located on the upper floor. The suites are accessible via common area hallway on the main floor as well in addition to their own private landscaped patio suite entrance space which are delineated with privacy screens and lush landscaping. Saywell Contracting Ltd. was founded in 1998 by Sheldon Saywell, the year he was approached by a client who asked if he could tender the remediation of a “leaky condo.” Sheldon’s efforts were very successful, and in 1999 he undertook his first full remediation project. At that time, the “leaky condo” crisis was still unheard of on Vancouver Island and was just beginning to become public elsewhere. Saywell Contracting was one of the first General Contractors on the Island to undertake such projects. The company continues to excel at the forefront of this industry and to date, has completed hundreds of building remediations. Saywell Contracting became known not only for the quality and excellence of our work, but also for relationships we have built with strata

owners and management firms. Our philosophy of building relationships first and foremost extends to everyone we come into contact with. After substantial growth between 1998 and 2005, Sheldon Saywell decided to diversify the company, and Saywell Contracting undertook their first new multi-residential project, a 35unit condominium. Since then, the company has expanded to two locations in Nanaimo, and Courtenay. Today, the firm continues to construct numerous multi-residential projects, commercial buildings, tenant improvements, as well as undertaking building envelope remediations. www.saywell contracting.com

35 Proud Civil Contractor to Saywell Construction on the Azalea Apartments. Have a project? Have a question? Give us a call.

(250) 339-6100 edgettexcavating.ca email: info@edgettexcavating.ca

Bedrock Redi-Mix would like to congratulate Saywell Construc on on all your success!

Congratulations to Saywell Contracting on your success!

250-951-2344

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362B – 10TH STREET, COURTENAY P: 250.338.5511 E: unitedfloorscourtenay@shaw.ca

www.courtenayflooring.ca

FEATURE STORY

Village On Third

WESTMARK EARNS THREE VIREB COMMERCIAL BUILDING AWARDS NANAIMO - Westmark Construction Ltd. took home three Awards from the 13th Annual Vancouver Island Real Estate Board Commercial Building Awards, which were presented online, virtually, on September 30. Westmark won Awards of Excellence for three projects in Nanaimo: Village on Third in the Apartments category, and Portsmouth Professional Centre in the Office category, as well as an Award of Merit for The Hub At Pacific Station in Apartments. Village On Third Phase One of Village on Third at 308 Hillcrest Avenue is part of a true mixed modern village. Upon completion, there will be five acres of residential, office and retail space. This project is purpose built student housing, with a contemporary design and each bedroom having its own balcony and en-suite. It is within walking distance to Vancouver Island University and downtown Nanaimo, and this project is perfectly situated for student life, and includes energy efficient building products and fixtures. Westmark President Chris Lundy stated on the VIREB video that the project â&#x20AC;&#x153;is primarily focusing

The Hub at Pacific Station on university students. The units have separate ensuites and shared living and common spaces, and it is designed in a typical west coast modern design.â&#x20AC;? Portsmouth Professional Centre Phase 2 at 6546 Portsmouth Road completes the professional office development with elegant architectural design and materials. The building is thoughtfully placed on the site to complete the streetscape, screen SEPTEMBER 2020

FEATURE STORY parking and define generous pedestrian circulation and plaza spaces. Tastefully landscaped with screens and native plants, this project responds to the site on ever side. Each office space receives ample natural light and is controlled with architectural solar shades. Lundy notes the commercial office development in the north end of Nanaimo is locally owned “and the owner mix of this professional centre is primarily medically-related businesses. It’s proven to be an excellent location and mix of services for the north end community.” The Hub At Pacific Station The Hub at 5260 Dublin Way sets the bar high for rental apartments in North Nanaimo. It features 60 one and two bedroom apartments with dens, private spacious balconies and Portsmouth Professional Centre plenty of natural light. Interiors feature high and residential community, and it is located on a bike performance kitchens, ensuite laundry, and ample path.” storage. www.westmarkconstruction.ca Adjacent to a park, it features top quality modern design, Fob Access system for all doors, heated parking ramps, electric car charging stations, hot and cold delivery lockers in the lobby. to Chris and the Lundy notes: “The Hub at Pacific Westmark Construction Station was the last of five phases of a Congratulations to team on all your Mixed Use development which comWestmark success! bined housing for sale, retail, commerConstruction on all your success! cial space for sale. The Hub is a 60 unit higher end rental building which we 3900 N Island Highway, Nanaimo Nanaimo, BC retained, and it has some energy efP: 250.758.3374 250.754.7390 ficient features. It backs onto a small www.budgetglass.com admin@fournierexcavating.ca park and integrating with the business

Congratulations

Congratulations to Westmark Construction on all your success!

General Contracting • Commercial Residential • Property Development

Duncan, BC Oﬃce: 250.856.5797 E: dalcon@shaw.ca

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Congratulations to Chris and the team at Westmark Construction! Phone: 250-758-3761 Cell: 250-741-4795

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VIREB

TOURISM TOFINO WINS VIREB COMMERCIAL BUILDING AWARDS 13TH ANNUAL EVENT FEATURING THE REGION’S TOP BUILDINGS WAS HELD VIRTUALLY SEPTEMBER 30

NANAIMO – The 13th edition of the annual Vancouver Island Real Estate Board Commercial Building Awards was held virtually this year, and winners were announced through a video released September 30. A near record total of 43 projects from across Vancouver Island were up for the event this year, which celebrates the best in commercial, community and industrial buildings north of the Malahat on Vancouver Island, which were completed between January 1 and December 31, 2019. Tourism Tofino was named the Judges’ Choice best overall entry this year. MKM Projects Ltd. was the General Contractor. Jordan Almond, President of MKM Projects Ltd., notes the Tourism Tofino project includes two buildings and is approximately 4,000 square feet. One of the custom wood buildings is home to a vehicle, viewable to the public, and the other is an office and visitor’s centre. “This is pretty surreal,” Almond said of winning the event’s top award. “We worked hand in hand with Tourism Tofino from the ground up, so to win this, I am kind of speechless right now.” “It’s one of those things that we’ve worked at for years and years and years, and for something like this happen to me and the company is pretty awesome.” The Awards Ceremony can be viewed at: https:// youtu.be/I0vUjk0wBs4 A team of independent judges chose the winners in the 11 categories of these awards: Apartments, Hospitality, Industrial, Institutional, Mixed Use, Office, Retail, Retail-Renovation, Seniors,

Social-Community and Townhouse. Gold sponsor of this event was Coastal Community Credit Union. Category sponsors were NAI Commercial, Yellow Sheet Review, Herold Engineering, MNP LLP, RE/MAX Commercial, BDC (Business Development Bank of Canada) and Canadian Western Bank. Winners in each category the Award of Excellence recipients, and runners-up receive an Award of Merit. Apartments - Award of Excellence: Village on Third, Nanaimo. General Contractor: Westmark Construction Ltd. Merit: The Arbutus, Nanaimo. General Contractor: WestUrban Developments Ltd.; The Hub at Pacific Station, Nanaimo. General Contractor: Westmark Construction Ltd.; 575 Residences, Campbell River. General Contractor: Crowne Pacific Development Corp. Hospitality - Award of Excellence: Ucluelet Brewing Company, Ucluelet. General Contractors: Woodenworks Construction and Tidewater Timber Frames. Industrial – Award of Excellence: 1851 Dufferin Crescent, Nanaimo. General Contractor: Windley Contracting Ltd. Merit: Island Pacific Transport,

SEPTEMBER 2020

VIREB

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3 STEPS TO MANAGE STRESS AND BUILD RESILIENCE Entrepreneurs often carry a lot of stress. It’s important for entrepreneurs to be aware of their stress, find ways to manage it and build resilience. 1. Evaluate your stress level A good time for a check-in is when you wake up in the morning. Ask yourself how you feel. “Check in with yourself instead of your phone”. “We’re so busy being busy that we’re not aware of how we’re feeling”. 2. Identify causes and solutions It’s useful to take a solution-based approach to stress, much as you might when solving a business challenge. Here are some common stressors and possible solutions. Business problems Whether it’s cash flow or hiring, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed. Solutions: Recognize when a problem is beyond your capacity to handle well. If needed, hire an expert to help you find solutions. Work-life balance - One of the most common causes of burnout for entrepreneurs is an unhealthy work-life balance. Solutions: Set boundaries for your personal life. This will help you be more productive at work and maintain healthy personal relationships. Isolation – Entrepreneurs often feel isolated, unable to talk about business anxieties and have a desire to project vision and strength. Solutions: Create a business culture that allows good communication and fosters employee engagement. Lack of sleep - Feeling tired often goes hand-in-hand with stress. Getting plenty of shut eye is key for managing stress well. Solutions: Try to get outside more often and get some sun on your face. Technology - Constant connectedness is a growing cause of stress and depression. Solutions: Find ways to limit device use, especially when not at work. 3. Build resilience - Resilience is your ability to bounce back from setbacks, learn, grow and find meaning in challenges. From the Business Development Bank of Canada

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BDC is pleased BDC is pleased toisbe associated to be associated BDC pleased with the 2019 with the 2019 with the 2017 with the 2017 to be associated Building Awards. Building Awards. with the 2019 with the 2017 BDC is pleased BDC is pleased Building Awards. to be associated to be associated BDC is pleased with the 2017 with the 2017 to be associated Building Awards. Building with the Awards. 2017 Building Awards. As the only bank devoted exclusively As the only bank devoted exclusively to entrepreneurs, we’reto proud to congratulate to entrepreneurs, we’re proud congratulate all the nominees and winners for all the nominees and winners for their their outstanding contributions and acheivements. outstanding contributions and acheivements. As the only bank devoted exclusively to entrepreneurs, we’re proud to congratulate all the nominees and winners for their outstanding contributions and acheivements.

CCourtenay CCourtenay Business Nanaimo Business Centre Business Centre Centre Adam Speigel, Senior Manager Adam Speigel, Senior Manager Johann Van Rensburg, Manager all the nominees and winners all the nominees and winners for theirfor their 250-331-9570 250-331-9570 250-390-5754 outstanding contributions and acheivements. outstanding contributions and acheivements. CCourtenay Business Centre bdc.ca Senior Manager bdc.ca Adam Speigel,

all the nominees and winners for their 250-331-9570 outstanding contributions and acheivements. bdc.ca

VIREB

Ladysmith. General Contractor: Island West Coast Developments; P & R Truck Centre, Nanaimo. General Contractor: Windley Contracting Ltd. Institutional – Award of Excellence: Tourism Tofino. General Contractor: MKM Projects Ltd. Merit: Tofino RCMP. General Contractor: Island West Coast Developments; Qwam Qwum Stuwixwulh School, Nanaimo. General Contractor: Kinetic Construction Ltd. Mixed Use - Award of Excellence: Cardea, Nanaimo. General Contractor: Tectonica. Merit: 91 Chapel, Nanaimo. General Contractor: Island West Coast Developments. Office - Award of Excellence: Portsmouth Professional Centre, Nanaimo. General Contractor: Westmark Construction Ltd. Merit: The Learning Clinic, Lantzville. General Contractor: R.W. (Bob) Wall Ltd. Retail - Award of Excellence: Snaw-Naw-As Market, Lantzville/Nanoose. General Contractor:

Ecklundson Construction Group. Retail Renovation - Award of Excellence: RE/ MAX Mid Island Realty, Port Alberni. General Contractor: CANBuild Smart Solutions. Seniors - Award of Excellence: Berwick, Qualicum Beach. General Contractor: Denford Construction Management. Social-Community - Award of Excellence: Braidwood Supportive Housing, Courtenay. General Contractor: AFC Construction Inc. Townhouse - Award of Excellence: Azalea, Courtenay. General Contractor: Saywell Contracting Ltd. The Official Souvenir Award Book for the 2020 awards, which includes photos and descriptions of every finalist building, is available for viewing at: https://issuu.com/businessexaminer/ docs/2020_vireb_book The video of the event is also viewable through the www.vireb.com and www.businessexaminer. ca websites.

Building the Island, together.

As a sponsor of the Vancouver Island Commercial Building Awards, MNP proudly congratulates all this year’s award winners and nominees. These awards are a chance to recognize all the parties involved – from the business owners, all the way to the sub-trade contractors who help to turn the initial vision into a reality. Beyond building great projects, it’s also important to acknowledge the role commercial construction companies play in building our communities. Successful commercial developments create employment and economic opportunity, while literally shaping our communities and making the Island a better place to live and work.

That’s why MNP is extremely proud to support these awards. We have a long history working as trusted advisors to the real estate and construction industry and we look forward to a great future ahead, continuing to work with you to build stronger businesses and even stronger communities across the Island. Again, on behalf MNP’s entire Vancouver Island team, congratulations on your achievements and best wishes on your continued success. Doug Tyce, CPA, CA Regional Leader, Real Estate and Construction

MNP.ca

SEPTEMBER 2020

VIREB

NAI COMMERCIAL CENTRAL VANCOUVER ISLAND NAI Commercial Central Vancouver Island is a full service commercial real estate brokerage providing personalized service to central Vancouver Island since 1993. Our team of dedicated professionals provide clients with market knowledge and insight for the region stretching from Duncan and Nanaimo to the Comox Valley and Tofino. Our transaction and advisory services include: ▪ Sales and leasing brokerage for property owners ▪ Buyer and tenant representation ▪ Property and facility management ▪ Business brokerage ▪ Consulting Our partnership with the 460 Group of Companies enables us to provide our clients with additional services and expertise. The partnership is a natural fit. The NAI Commercial team, brand and core services will remain the same but we look forward to the opportunities this new partnership will bring our company and clients as we continue to grow on Vancouver Island. NAI Global is the single largest global network of owner-operated commercial real estate brokerage firms, with 375 offices worldwide. Our local team of experienced professionals combine their expertise to help our clients achieve their objectives. We welcome an opportunity to discuss your commercial real estate needs.

RE/MAX COMMERCIAL CONTINUES STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE RE/MAX COMMERCIAL DELIVERS A SUPERIOR LEVEL OF SERVICE RE/MAX Commercial is proud to once again sponsor the prestigious Vancouver Island Real Estate Board Commercial Building Awards. Congratulations to the finalists and the many nominees. These awards reflect your commitment to a better community. It has been over 30 years since the RE/MAX Commercial brand was officially founded (1990); leveraging the influence of the RE/MAX name and reflecting a commitment specific to commercial real estate. Whatever the property and whatever the transaction, RE/MAX Commercial delivers a superior level of awareness, trust and confidence. RE/MAX Commercial Practitioners have access to the industry’s top training systems, corporate support services and a powerful referral network – more than 135,000 Sales Associates in over 110 countries and territories. Thank you for being part of this special evening!

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VIREB HEROLD ENGINEERING LIMITED is proud a part HEROLD ENGINEERING LIMITED is proud to to bebe a part of of 2019 VIREB Commercial Building Awards. thethe 2019 VIREB Commercial Building Awards. Congratulations nominees! Congratulations to to allall thethe nominees!

HEROLD ENGINEERING LIMITED is Vancouver a Vancouver Island HEROLD ENGINEERING LIMITED is a Island based consulting, civil, structural, building enclosure, based consulting, civil, structural, building enclosure, marine bridge engineering company with offices marine andand bridge engineering company with offices in Nanaimo, Victoria Ucluelet. a dynamic in Nanaimo, Victoria andand Ucluelet. WeWe areare a dynamic diverse company with over employees involved andand diverse company with over 65 65 employees involved a wide variety of public private sector building, in ain wide variety of public andand private sector building, transportation, marine civil/municipal infrastructure transportation, marine andand civil/municipal infrastructure projects throughout British Columbiaandand beyond. projects throughout British Columbia beyond. WeWe a proud member of our community, supporting local areare a proud member of our community, supporting local businesses, organizations charities. businesses, organizations andand charities. www.heroldengineering.com www.heroldengineering.com

HEROLD ENGINEERING INVOLVED IN AWARD WINNING PROJECTS NANAIMO – There’s a common denominator underneath many of the finalists in the 13th Annual Vancouver Island Real Estate Board Commercial Building Awards. Herold Engineering Limited. Herold Engineering Limited specializes in project management, civil/municipal infrastructure work, building structures and enclosures, industrial, marine and bridge projects. Projects include airports, educational and recreational facilities, fire halls, police stations, health care facilities, industrial projects, office buildings and multi-residential projects. Mike Herold founded Herold Engineering Limited in 1994, and the company became a well-respected structural engineering firm serving mid and north Vancouver Island. In 2000 the company expanded into civil engineering services to complement its structural and specialty engineering services. Herold Engineering Limited’s head office is at 3701 Shenton Road in Nanaimo, and in recent years, they’ve opened design offices in Victoria, the West Coast and Fort Nelson. Herold Engineering Limited has captured a long-list of awards from numerous competitions over the years for projects they’ve been involved with on and off Vancouver Island, including several LEED Gold and Silver awards. The company is also recognized for making significant contributions to a large number of worthy causes and charities. www.heroldengineering.com

YELLOW SHEET KEEPS CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY ON TRACK VICTORIA - Making sound development decisions based on accurate and up-to-date information is the most important ingredient in being a successful leader in Vancouver Island’s construction sector. Yellow Sheet Construction Data is proud to be Vancouver Island’s premier source of continuously updated information about construction activity here and adjacent areas including the Gulf Islands, Powell River and Haida Gwaii. We have 39 years of experience providing superb business leads and powerful competitive market insights to our ever-expanding subscriber base. Every council agenda, from every district, is reviewed, we have building permits from every region on the Island, and we track public and private tender data through to the bid result or award. Yellow Sheet’s subscription is an online platform that provides multi-dimensional search, profile and tracking functions to retrieve data with pinpoint accuracy. Every day our subscribers log into the Yellow Sheet to access continuously generated construction leads, identify emerging and waning markets, track and monitor competition and formulate winning bids. Visit us at www.yellowsheet.ca

SEPTEMBER 2020

VIREB

COASTAL COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION REMAINS STRONG AND STABLE IN 2020 Coastal Community Credit Union (CCCU) ended 2019 with a strong financial performance, reporting $2.7 billion in total “on-book” assets. This was a 4.5 per cent increase over the year for the credit union, which remains the largest Island-based financial services organization and third largest BC credit union by membership. Coastal Community also marked a new milestone of over $3.5 billion in total assets under management when off-book assets managed through the organization’s wealth management subsidiary are included. CCCU’s capital ratio, which reflects the Credit Union’s capacity to invest in the future and to withstand economic downturns, increased to a very healthy 17.17 per cent at the end of 2019. That strength has helped the credit union meet the extraordinary challenges of the first half of 2020. “The numbers really speak to Coastal Community’s strength and stability,” says Adrian Legin, Coastal Community’s President and CEO. CCCU serves over 120,000 Islanders through its family of companies. The credit union provides personal, business and commercial banking services, complemented by Coastal Community Insurance Services Ltd. (CCIS), which offers personal and commercial insurance solutions, and wholly owned subsidiary Coastal Community Financial Management Inc., which provides wealth management services through its Coastal Community Private Wealth Group division (CCPWG). WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA

Last year, the credit union solidified an insurance collaboration with Interior Savings Credit Union to provide an even better member and client experience. Coastal Community Private Wealth Group experienced solid growth during 2019 to end the year with $770 million in assets under management. CCCU also seized the opportunity to reinvent cccu.ca. The redesigned site has helped connect members and clients with information, support and financial measures to help them in these extraordinary times. For more information, visit www.cccu.ca for a copy of the 2019 Annual Report.

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS

MOVERS & SHAKERS Announcements, business changes, celebrations and other hidden gems from around Central/North Vancouver Island. Curated just for you.

Submit your company’s announcement to: media@businessexaminer.ca

CAMPBELL RIVER

Osprey Electric is expanding into Campbell River after acquiring Apple Electric. Apple Electric served Campbell River and Northern Vancouver for thirty years before its purchase. Osprey General Manager Tyler Cody notes that the acquisition will help Osprey diversify their service to the local community. Physiotherapist, David Pechter, retu r n s to CBI Health Centre after a yearlong sabbatical with his fa m i ly i n Fra nce. Dav id has advanced training in manual therapy and IMS/ dry needling. He also runs t he pool-ba sed t herapy David Pechter program with CBI. CBI is at 2315 S. Island Hwy. Dr. Jaclyn Farquhar has joined Summit Surgical Associates at 101-250 Dogwood St. She

Mary Ruth Snyder have a discusssion with Vanessa Stratton of Vancouver Island University and Anita BudisaBonneau of North Island College

joins Dr. Tiffany Chan, Dr. Roy Minnaar and Dr. Leanne Wood. The entrance feature for the Island Highway as it enters Campbellton is finally under construction, featuring a Beaver floatplane perched atop a 25-foot column, welcoming visitors to the city as they come down the hill into the north end of town. The project was initially approved by the City of Campbell River in 2017. The city is hopeful the project will be completed by the end of the year.

SEPTEMBER 2020

D E T N E C -S D R A W A

The Tidemark Theatre and Campbell River and District Chamber of Commerce have partnered to launch two new television shows hosted by Mary Ruth Snyder. eXplore and Insights & Business.

MOVERS AND SHAKERS

The Strathcona Regional District is proceeding with its Connected Coast project, announcing a joint venture with Northern BC telecom CityWest to help deliver reliable high-speed internet to rural and remote communities along the BC coast and Haida Gwaii. The plan is to build and operate a subsea fibre optic network running from north of Prince Rupert to Haida Gwaii and south along the coast to Vancouver, as well as running around the island. The project will support 159 communities in the area, including 51 Indigenous communities. Find out more at www.connectedcoast.ca. PAL Aerospace has opened its new hangar facility in Campbell River. Custom built to support the operations of the Fisheries and Oceans Canada’s Fisheries Aerial Surveillance and Enforcement (FASE) program, the hangar facility consists of 12,000 square feet of clear hangar space and an additional 6,000 square feet of finished warehouse and office space.

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Brandon Pirie of Quadra I s l a n d’s W i l d I sl e Fe rments won t he $50,000 “Wi ldca rd” prize at the inaugural NexStream Tech Competition. H is products were developed by using byproducts from fish processing.

The City of Campbell River won in the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ annual Sustainable Communities Awards for the city’s Rising Seas Project. The award celebrates the most innovative environmental initiatives WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS in cities and communities across Canada. It also won the Canadian Association of Municipal Administrators’ (CAMA) 2020 CAMA Environment Award i n the 20,000 to 100,000 population category for the same project. The Campbell River professional firefighters are holding a virtual golf tournament to raise money for local charities and causes at the Campbell River Golf and Country Club. Prizes range from a fishing trip to an autographed Brock Boeser Vancouver Canucks jersey, and more. Contact 250-287-4970 to book a spot in the tournament between now and October 31st. Jane Atherton h as been elected to the North Island College Board of Governors as the new vice-chair, and Eric Mosley was elected as the new chair of the board. COMOX VALLEY

Dr. Deidre MacDonald, ND welcomes Dr. Shawn Peters, ND to her practice in downtown Courtenay. Dr Peters is a licenced naturopathic doctor. Kudos to Bradon MacDonald of Temprite Climate Solutions for receiving his Red Seal Certification as Sheet Metal Technician and Reid Lovett became a Red Seal Refrigeration Technician and Certified Class B Gas Fitter. Congratulations to Sharon Anderson, owner of Shar-On’s Ladies Wear & Accessories in downtown Courtenay for celebrating 25 years in business. Malinda Mazzocci of Brian McLean Chevrolet Buick GMC Ltd has been named Top Salesperson for the month of September. She brings over a decade of experience to the GM dealership. Comox Community Centre membership

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS holders can now use their membership to access the fitness stud io. Membersh ips were previously frozen due to the pandemic. Registration is available online at comox.ca/ modx/fitness-studio/. WestJet’s morning and evening service from the Comox Valley Airport to Calgary has resumed, with 116 additional weekly flights added to the current schedule, increasing service to twice daily via Calgary and adding two additional flights to Edmonton, for a total of four weekly. Paige W hitehead a nd Yamila Franco of Courtenay-based Nyoka Design Labs won a $2,500 prize in a regional competition hosted by Startup Canada, qualifying for the national finals starting October 20th. The co-founders are on a mission to make in novative, eco-friendly products the standard. Paige and Yamila invented the Nyoka Light Wand, a nontoxic, bioPaige Whitehead degradable glow stick. The company has prev iously received $150,000 in grant funding to hire a small team to pa r t icipate i n U BC Yamila Franco program Lab2Launch. The Comox Valley Child Development Association has honoured Pam Crowe in her retirement after 35 years of service on its board of directors. Amongst the celebration of her career, her name will grace the Comox Valley’s autism centre, now the Pam Crowe Autism Centre of Excellence. Real estate professional Rob Bowker has WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA

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joined the team at Iconic Island Dwellings, Vancouver Island’s Modular Home Manufacturers. With more tha n 10 yea rs i n the i ndustry Rob brings a combination of construction, property development and real estate experience to their team.

Construction has sta rted on the South Courtenay Riverway Extension between M i l la rd a nd Beachwood roads i n south Courtenay. The 400-metre extension is being constructed on the site of an old railway corridor today owned by the City of Courtenay. Construction is expected to be completed by mid-November. Cumberland Council passed first and second readings of bylaws for rezoning property a nd a mend i ng t he of f ici a l com mu n ity plan to rezone the property at three adjacent Second Street lots in order to facilitate the construction of an affordable multifamily residential building. If approved, the project, helmed by the Comox Valley Transition Society (CVTS) a nd Dawn to Dawn Action on Homeless Society, will consist of a three-storey building of 22 units, owned by Island Health. Cumberland council passed a resolution to explore a partnership with School District 71 to set up a new facility through the Childcare BC New Spaces Fund of up to $3 million to create up to 75 new spaces for child care in the community. The resolution includes feedback via the Boys & Girls Clubs of Vancouver Island for expertise on submitting applications. The Village of Cumberland staff has recom mended installing 3000-Kelv in LED street lighting in residential areas, with 4000-Kelvin along busier connector roads

MOVERS AND SHAKERS the Ponoka Stampeders of the Heritage Junior B Hockey League (HJHL) in Alberta, as well as a coach with the Oshawa Generals AAA midget team.

a nd i ntersections. T he l ig hti ng update wou ld occu r v ia BC Hydro’s streetl ig ht replacement program, which encourages a switch to energy conserving lights with superior quality. The light conversion plan in Cumberland would begin in November. BC Hydro aims to complete all the lighting in the province by mid-2023.

CFB Comox has received its first new search and rescue fixed-wing aircraft in fifty years. The Spain-built and Airbus-manufactured CC-295 will be tested by the Royal Canadian Air Force before being put to use. The plane is the first of sixteen new aircraft expected to arrive.

Inspired Cannabis Co. at 625 Cliffe Avenue in Courtenay is now open every day of the week, prepared for phone and online orders ahead of pickup. They can be contacted at 250-871-2068.

Comox Valley Dental at B-1710 Comox Avenue welcomes Joan Angevine. Joan, a dental hygienist, brings plenty of experience and a kind disposition to their already talented team.

Mike Nesbitt is the new head coach and general manager of the Comox Valley Glacier Kings for the 2020-21 Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League season. Mike brings over 20 years of coaching and managing ex perience to the Ju n ior B club, hav i ng been head coach and general manager of

The Town of Comox has greenlit a 42-unit townhouse development at 2310 Guthrie Road, unanimously approving the rezoning, development p er m it a nd development

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS variance permit applications, which also include 530 square metres of commercial space. More than 225 acres of additional forested land has been acquired for the Cumberland Community Forest i n the Village of Cumberland i n the Perseverance Creek watershed, in partnership between conservation organizations, local governments, and a private timber company. The $2.5 million purchase is the largest to date for the Cumberland Community Forest Society. PORT ALBERNI The City of Port Alberni is working on a design for a “Welcome to Port Alberni” sign at one of the city’s entrances. The project estimate comes to over $43,000, including design work, construction, landscaping, lighting and annual maintenance. The city currently has $25,000 budgeted for the sign.

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The contractor, Scott Signs, designed the Nanoose Bay welcome sign on Highway 19. Pacific West Home Appliance Service and Repair celebrates their first year in business. They are located at 3540 3rd Ave. Dr. Jasmine Dhesi joins the Valley Vision Optometry. Bev Mullen joins Royal Lepage as a real estate professional. Daryl Robbins of Robbins and Company have purchased accountant David and Brenda Oscienny’s (CPA, CA) business upon their retirement. PARKSVILLE/QUALICUM BEACH Cascadia Liquor has opened in Parksville at 389 Alberni Highway. Stefanie White and Josh Brocklebank join

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS the Waypoint Insurance team. Josh is a commercial account executive while Stefanie specializes in high value homes, umbrella liability, condos, pleasure craft and private auto insurance. Lan Vietnamese Express has opened a new location at 150 Hirst Ave E. They are open Tuesday to Saturday from 11 am to 7:30 pm. Flowerstone Family Health Clinic will be opening at Unit 1B-219 Fern Road. It is using a nurse practitioner-led model called a Patient Medical Home. It is working in partnership with the Oceanside Primary Care Network. Parksville Physiotherapy Clinic and Wellness Center has moved to #106-543 Stanford Ave E., Shelley Square. Kleja Talmanis of the Amazing Hair Studio celebrates 10 years in business.

Theresa Parpa-Gura joins the team at M&N Mattress Shop. A c o r n T re e E a rly C h i ld h o o d C e ntre has opened at Parksville’s Knox United Church located at 345 Pym Street. Owned by Elidah Jewer, the centre is licensed for 14 children from three to five years old, and operates from Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm. Elidah also owns another childcare centre, The Thinking Garden in Lantzville. The first electric school bus for School District 69 in Qualicum will soon be on the road. T he school district purchased the electric bus earlier this year via the Bus Acquisition Program funded by the provincial government to help school districts switch to zero-emission and clean energy vehicles. Retired naval officer and businessman Rob Lyon will run in the Parksville-Qualicum Beach riding for the BC Green Party. Mr. Lyon

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS owns Pacific Passive House construction company based in Cobble Hill, focused on building energy-efficient and reduced carbon emission passive homes NANAIMO Local electrical engineer, Don Gayton has created a website that connects patients w ith physicians who are accepting new clients. FindaDoctorbc.ca website monitors about 257 family clinics, which represents about 1500 doctors. Aladins Café located at 67 Victoria Crescent is under new ownership and management. Country Club Mall is celebrating 40 years of growth. Atlas Engineered Products have delivered the fi rst pre-ma nu factu red wa l l pa nels to a n office development project South of Nanaimo. The panels will speed up the construction timeline in comparison to trad itiona l stick fra m i ng, accord i ng to Fou nder a nd E xecut ive Vice P resident of Strategic Business Development Hadi Abassi. Joy Godard is a n i ndependent l ig hti ng consultant with Lights Canada. With over 15 years in the construction industry, she is the expert for all your lighting needs. Contact her at joy@lightscanda.ca or 250-667-3888. Retired Netflix CMO Kelly Bennett donated a $30,000 appearance fee from London Drugs from a November speaking engagement to the Nanaimo-Ladysmith Schools Foundation a nd Nanaimo Child Development Centre at $15,000 apiece. One of Na na i mo-based ca n nabis comp a ny T i l ray’s G o o d M a n u f a c t u r i n g Produced-certified products was used in

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an Australian clinical trial, moving from its pilot phase to a larger study to determine its place in routine care for cancer patients. The results, published in the Annals of Oncology, showed a significant improvement in controlling chemotherapy side effects. Tilray is supplying the product for the next trial, which is being funded by the state government. Nanaimo city council is pursuing a new boathouse at Loudon Park and a resurfaced track at Rotary Bowl Stadium in the form of infrastructure grants. The grant money, if approved, would come from the Community Economic Recovery Infrastructure P ro g ra m to s u p p o r t B C C o m m u n i t i e s recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. The $100-million program, available to local governments, indigenous applicants and not-for-profit organizations, is intended to create employment and covers 100 per cent of funding for projects up to $1 million. T he Harris House Clinic i n dow ntow n Nanaimo has closed and relocated to a new medical facility on Waddington Road. The newly named Health Matters! Central Vancouver Island Harm Reduction Services is now closer to Nanaimo’s hospital. Their core services will remain focused on testing for STD and blood-borne diseases. With seism ic upg rades on the Machine Shop near completion, the Town of Ladysmith is seeking additional funds for structu ra l, elect r ica l, mech a n ica l, ex ter ior boardwalk, and infrastructure upgrades necessa r y to sa fely a l low u sers to o ccupy the site. T he Town will seek grant funding for phase two rehabilitation for $3,114,611 through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, also committing $1,132,779 via the Real Property Reserve and General Government Reserves.

MOVERS AND SHAKERS COWICHAN VALLEY Captain Andy’s Fish and Chips has opened in Chemainus Public Market. Co-owner Warren Goulding says it is open 7 days a week and offers take-out as well as limited seating. Call 250-324-4888. The Crofton Pharmacy and Medical Clinic has opened. Located at the corner of Queen Street and Joan Avenue. The location will offer virtual medical services, flu shots and more. The pharmacy’s regular hours are Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.

The construction of the new $48-million RCMP detachment in North Cowichan will be done in structural steel rather than mass timber as originally planned, saving $1.8 million in building costs. The facility will be located on a five-acre property owned by the Municipality of North Cowichan bordering Ford Road and Drinkwater Road.

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A new townhome community is coming to 1027 College Place near Cowichan District Hospital. The three and four-level condos, built by Nicon Developments Limited, will be conveniently located near shops and recreation areas, and will include indoor exploration opportunities. The Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Oyster Bay has donated $7,500 to support the Ladysmith Resources Centre Association Volunteer Counselling Program through its Common Ground initiative, a charitable endeavour across all MasterBUILT hotel properties. Rainforest Arts at 9781 Willow Street in Chemainus has hired Stephanie Allesia as their new gallery manager. The Beachwood Estates have opened on the Chemainus waterfront at the corner of Malcolm and Chemainus Road. The subdivision consists of 11 single detached building lots, a single detached home and three waterfront building lots. The project was built by Maven Consulting Ltd. of North Vancouver. The Community Energy Association has announced the Cowichan Valley Regional District as winner of the Climate Adaptation Award at the 2020 Climate & Energy Action Awards in partnership with the Province of British Columbia, Union of BC Municipalities, BC Hydro, FortisBC and the Real Estate Foundation of BC. The Cowichan Valley’s Westholme Tea Company at 8350 Richards Trail is celebrating its 10th anniversary. The 11-acre organic tea garden, tea shop, and gallery will launch new products and experiences beginning on October 10th, including new ceramic works, limited-edition Westholme-grown tea, the permanent reopening of The Gallery at Westholme. Visit www.westholmetea.com to find out more. SEPTEMBER 2020