www.BusinessExaminer.ca
October 2021
WENSTOB MAKES THE CUT IN NETFLIX’ BIG TIMBER - 16
Kevin Wenstob is co-owner of Wenstob Timber Resources in Sooke, and stars in the TV series hit Big Timber
CAPITAL REGION COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE REPORT – 12
FLIPSIDE PLASTICS TURNING RECYCLED PLASTIC INTO NEW PRODUCTS – 28
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In many ways the economy is starting to trend in the right direction. Here at the Business Examiner we are bullish on the Island’s economy. With tech, construction, forestry and many other sectors making major contributions as the region moves towards the redefinition of normal. There’s a lot to celebrate amongst on the negativity out there, and we are pleased to present great stories from around the South Island. Aside from the feature story on the Island’s own Netflix show, Big Timber, we have great content inside, including our regional Chamber of Commerce updates, an expanded Capital Region Commercial Real Estate Report, and much more. In the next month or so we’ll be announcing exciting changes here at the Business Examiner, including new staff serving the South Island! Have a great month, and keep pushing ahead! John MacDonald, Director, Business Development Contact Us 25 Cavan Street Nanaimo, BC V9R 2T9 +1 866-758-2684 info@businessexaminer.ca www.BusinessExaminer.ca Office Hours Monday – Friday: 9:00am – 5:00 pm Saturday – Sunday: Closed Editor: Lise MacDonald (lise@businessexaminer.ca) Press Releases & Story Ideas: (media@businessexaminer.ca) Sales: John MacDonald (john@businessexaminer.ca)
CONSTRUCTION & PROJECT MANAGEMENT - GENERAL CONTRACTING - DESIGN BUILD PRECONSTRUCTION - TENANT IMPROVEMENTS - TILT UP CONSTRUCTION
SENIOR PROJECT MANAGERS SENIOR ESTIMATORS SITE SUPERVISORS CARPENTERS CAREERS@IWCD.CA 250.756.9665 NANAIMO 250.590.7820 VICTORIA IWCD'S DLX ON THIRD PROJECT IN NANAIMO
6 NEWS UPDATE
10 GREATER VICTORIA
16 BIG TIMBER
9 WEST SHORE
12 CITIFIED
19 TOURISM
20 MNP ADVISORY
24 OPINION
28 FLIPSIDE PLASTICS
22 WHO IS SUING WHOM
27 ISL
29 MOVERS AND SHAKERS
NEWS UPDATE
SIDNEY All Care Residence
At Sidney All Care Residence one of the many things that sets us apart is the level of one-on-one, personalized care your loved one will receive. We enjoy taking the time to get to know each and every resident on a personal level, learning their individual preferences in order to be able to offer them the best care possible.
Please contact our Community Relations Manager, Sharon Unsworth for more details. 778-677-4997 or sunsworth@allcarecanada.ca
www.allcarecanada.ca • 2269 Mills Rd, Sidney
6
GREATER COMMITMENT TO DEVELOPMENT REQUIRED VICTORIA - A total of 761 properties sold in the Victoria Real Estate Board region this September, 23.1 per cent fewer than the 989 properties sold in September 2020 and 8.4 per cent fewer than the previous month of August. Condominium sales were up 9.3 per cent from September 2020 with 306 units sold. 11.3 per cent fewer condominiums sold in September 2021 than in the previous month of August. Sales of single family homes were down 38.6 per cent from September 2020 with 331 sold. 7.3 per cent fewer single family homes sold in September 2021 than in the previous month of August. There were 1,124 active listings for sale on the VREB MLS at the end of September 2021, 53 per cent fewer properties than the 2,389 available at the end of September 2020. The MLS Home Price Index benchmark value for a single family home in the Victoria Core in September 2020 was $879,700. The benchmark value for the same home in September 2021 increased by 25.1 per cent to $1,100,200, a 1 per cent increase from the previous month of August. The MLS HPI benchmark value for a condominium in the Victoria Core in September 2020 was $482,000, while the benchmark value for the same condominium in September 2021 increased by 13.3 per cent to $545,900. See full report here. October 2021
NEWS UPDATE
MARKET CONDITIONS TIGHT IN SEPTEMBER BRITISH COLUMBIA - The British Columbia Real Estate Association (BCREA) reports that a total of 9,164 residential unit sales were recorded by the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) in September 2021, a decrease of 19.9 per cent from September 2020. The average MLS residential price in BC was $913,471, a 14 per cent increase from $801,241 recorded in September 2020. Total sales dollar volume was $8.4 billion, an 8.6 per cent decline from last year. “Home sales have settled at levels that are slightly above long-term average,” said BCREA Chief Economist Brendon Ogmundson. “The main story in all markets continues to be a severe lack of listings supply, particularly in Fraser Valley, Vancouver Island and Interior markets.” Total active residential listings were down 36.8 per cent year-over-year in September for the province as a whole and were more than more than 50 per cent below last September’s levels in the Fraser Valley and Victoria. Year-to-date, BC residential sales dollar volume was up 81.8 per cent to $90.4 billion, compared to the same period in 2020. Residential unit sales were up 52.4 per cent to 99,182 units, while the average MLS residential price was up 19.3 per cent to $911,195. WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA
CYBERSECURITY HONOURS FOR PURILOCK SECURITY SOLUTIONS VICTORIA – An identity-centric cybersecurity solutions provider with an office on Fort Street has won a prestigious 2021 Cybersecurity Breakthrough Award. Purilock Security Solutions Inc. has been named “Authentication Solution of the Year” for its cutting-edge DEFEND continuous authentication product. “We are honored to be a recipient of the Authentication Solution of the Year award from Tech Breakthrough,” says Ian L. Paterson, CEO of Plurilock, which also has an office in New York. “Our DEFEND product is unique in its ability to continuously authenticate users throughout the workday without friction, addressing the critical need for advanced identity assurance in light of the growing cyber threat and incidence of cyber-attacks. “This award serves to further validate our work, being named alongside several big players in the cybersecurity space.” Plurilock’s proprietary DEFEND solution uses micro-expressions, based on a user’s keyboard and mouse movements, to create a unique behavioral biometric user signature that continuously authenticates identity throughout the workday. Plurilock’s family of companies enables organizations to operate safely and securely while reducing cybersecurity friction. Plurilock offers world-class IT and cybersecurity solutions through its Solutions Division, paired with proprietary, AI-driven and cloud-friendly security through its Technology Division. Full Report here
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NEWS UPDATE
8
F&M INSTALLATIONS LTD. WINS BIG SITE C DAM CONTRACT
CAPITAL COMMITMENT FOR GREEN SKY LABS SUBSIDIARY
NANAIMO – F&M Installations Ltd. has been awarded a $128 million contract for the electrical work at BC Hydro’s Site C Dam power generation project near Fort St. John. F&M, with its head office at 1890 School House Road in south Nanaimo next to the Trans-Canada Highway, will be responsible for all the remaining electrical work required to complete the construction of the spillways and generating station, as well as other related facilities at Site C. The company will mobilize on site this fall, with work scheduled to be completed in 2024. F&M has a 15 year history of working on BC Hydro projects, including the John Hart Generating Station Replacement Project in Campbell River, the Mica Dam Units 5 and 6 Project north of Revelstoke, and the isophase bus replacement at the GM Shrum Generating Station at the WAC Bennett Dam near Hudson’s Hope. The balance of plant electrical contract was awarded by BC Hydro following a comprehensive evaluation and due diligence process. F&M specializes in generation, transmission and distribution projects for electric utility providers.
VICTORIA - My Next Health Inc., a subsidiary of Victoria’s Green Sky Labs, has secured a $150 million equity capital commitment through a share subscription facility entered into with Luxembourg-based GEM Global Yield LLC SCS, a private alternative investment group. GEM has agreed to purchase, for a period of 36 months after a public listing of MNH’s common stock, up to $150 million in shares from time to time upon MNH’s drawdown request under the agreement. “Securing this capital commitment from the GEM Group propels us forward on the path to improving human health by accelerating the world’s transition to precision medicine,” Chief Executive Officer of My Next Health, Dr. Richard Heinzl, stated. “Working with a strong capital partner like the GEM Group is a valuable support to our business strategy as we look forward to achieving significant corporate objectives in the coming months.” Global Emerging Markets is a $3.4 billion alternative investment group with offices in Paris, New York, and Nassau in the Bahamas. GEM manages a diverse set of investment vehicles focused on emerging markets and has completed over 480 transactions in 70 countries. Each investment vehicle has a different degree of operational control, risk-adjusted return, and liquidity profile. See press release here. October 2021
WEST SHORE
CELEBRATING SMALL BUSINESS
JULIE LAWLOR October is Small Business Month, and here at the WestShore Chamber we are celebrating in a variety of ways. A new initiative we’re trying out is using Instagram Reels (a.k.a. videos) to highlight a selection of our members throughout the month. In August, WestShore Chamber members had a chance to sign up on a first-come, first-served basis to be part of the pilot. We’ll be releasing approximately two per week, and you can check out this and all our Instagram content at www.instagram.com/westshorechamber/ Another way we are supporting small business this month is by taking part in consultation with the provincial government. Led by the BC Chamber, the WestShore Chamber will be joining chamber colleagues and provincial staff in virtual meetings to discuss policy passed in May and advocate on behalf of business. We first started this process in 2019 through in-person regional meetings, but WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA
2020’s didn’t go ahead due to the combination of the pandemic and the election. It will be good to get back around the table in 2021, even if that table is still virtual. Last but not least, we celebrate small business in October through the announcement of the winners and finalists in the Best of the WestShore Awards. As per last year we will be announcing the results online, and for 2021 this is taking place on the evenings of October 25th and 26th. Attendance is free with the option to donate to charity, and everyone is welcome to attend. You can find out more under the “Events” section of our website at westshore.bc.ca The WestShore Chamber has many small businesses in its membership, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support of this small non-profit organisation. Times are still tough for many, and it is because of our members that we can promote and support in turn small businesses in our community. Thank you! We are always happy to help, and you can give us a call on (250) 478-1130. Julie Lawlor is Executive Director at the WestShore Chamber of Commerce.
9
GREATER VICTORIA
BOARD ELECTIONS ADD NEW VOICES TO THE CHAMBER That level of competition is a good indication of just how interested Greater Victoria’s business community was in this election. That’s not surprising, given the work The Chamber and its board have been doing on behalf of business. We’ve been going full-out since the pandemic started to try and help businesses get through the uncertainty and prepare for recovery. Our efforts have shaped government relief programs and championed innovations that businesses were able to embrace as the way forward. I’m grateful for the expertise and guidance I’ve had from our current board and look forward to working closely with the new board,
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which formally begins its term on Jan.1, 2022. BRUCE WILLIAMS
Jessica, James, Rose and Tom will join John Wilson, Kris Wirk, Christina Clarke, Moira
The Chamber is pleased to announce the election results for our 2022 Board of Directors. Jessica Stigant, Associate Director of Government Relations and Partnerships for Ocean Net-
Hauk, Judith Ethier, Pedro Marquez, Richard Michaels, Ann Squires Ferguson as well as past chair Dan Dagg as members of the 2022 board.
works Canada, and James Gatsi, founder and CEO
On a related note, the board will also have
of CL Web Developers Inc., have been elected to
two other new faces. The Chamber maintains
two-year terms on The Chamber Board.
a seat at the table for whoever is the current
Incumbent candidates Rose Arsenault, Agilus
Base Commander of CFB Esquimalt. So, when
Work Solutions and Tom Plumb, Kinetic Con-
Capt. (N) Sam Sader was re-assigned to a
struction were also re-elected.
new post in Ottawa, we welcomed new Base
The Chamber holds staggered elections every
Commander, Capt. (N) J. Jeffery Hutchinson
fall, so we can maintain continuity while en-
to the table. As well, the incoming chair of
suring fresh voices are able to join the table.
The Chamber’s Prodigy committee, Paul van
This year, there were 11 candidates vying for
Koll, will join the board in 2022.
four open positions.
It really is an outstanding cast of diverse October 2021
GREATER VICTORIA community leaders with decades of experi-
Virtual Membership 101 / 12 – 1pm | Zoom
ence in successful organizations. Put them together on our board and they became a re-
Thursday, October 21
markably influential group that can get the ear
Modified Business Mixer / 5 – 6:30pm | Max
of decision makers at all levels of government.
Furniture (3460 Quadra St.)*
It’s a blessing for me, as CEO of the organ-
Tuesday, October 26
ization, and a true benefit for our members.
International Students and Local Business
Even beyond that, the work our board does
Connector / 5 – 6pm | Zoom
improves conditions for entrepreneurs and businesses — and even other chambers —
Wednesday, October 27
across Vancouver Island.
What Comes Next? Plan Your Exit with Grant
Thank you to everyone who put your name
Thornton / 12 – 1pm | Webinar
forward as a candidate for The Chamber board, and to all our members who voted.
Thursday, October 28
The work never ends, and we know that many
Small Business Month Networking Breakfast
challenges lie ahead. We’ll keep doing what’s right for the entire business community as we continue down the
/ 7:30 – 9am | Victoria Sandman (2852 Douglas St.)*
recovery runway. Bruce Williams is CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
Wednesday, November 3 Leveraging Wage Subsidies to Hire Co-op Students / 12:15 – 1:15pm | Webinar
Chamber Events Celebrate Small Business Month sponsored by Grant Thornton! Tuesday, October 19 AGM – Speaker Min. Ravi Kahlon / 11:30am – 1pm | Union Club (805 Gordon St.)* Wednesday, October 20 Data for Better Business Efficiencies with Grant Thornton / 12 – 1pm | Webinar Thursday, October 21 WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA
*Pre-registration and double-vaccination required to attend all in-person events.
11
Citified.ca
12 A rendering of three-story townhomes at Washington, a 34-residence project from Victoria homebuilder Formwell Homes. Washington is coming soon to 3080 Washington Avenue in the City of Victoria’s Burnside-Gorge Neighbourhood. © Formwell Homes
CAPITAL REGION COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE REPORT Sponsored by ESQUIMALT
Gallery Splash in a community flex space
A culmination of over four years of con-
adjacent to Greater Victoria Public Library’s
struction at Esquimalt’s landmark Esqui-
(GVPL) new Esquimalt branch slated for
malt Town Square community coincided
opening this fall. Featuring artist works
with the grand opening of Gallery Splash, a
from around the community, Gallery Splash
new arts initiative from Esquimalt’s Town-
will hold hours in tandem with the library.
ship Community Arts Council (TCAC). At a September 25th ceremony, TCAC and developer Aragon celebrated the opening of
LANGFORD Several highrise towers have been proposed October 2021
Citified.ca for the city’s Peatt Road corridor.
as 22-storeys and comprise of 456 residential
Surrey-based Jagpal Developments is pur-
units, collectively.
suing approvals for what may become a duo of residential buildings standing 24 and
SAANICH
19-storeys tall, known as Langford Central,
16 years following Mayfair Lanes’ closure,
with 271 residences between the 2700-blocks
the building’s razing a nd the property’s sale
of Peatt and Scafe roads. A four-storey office
to Ontario-based Loblaw corporation, signs
building, ground floor retail spaces and a
of progress are on the horizon for what is
daycare facility are also planned.
currently a vacant 3.4-acre parcel straddling
Further to the north Langford Gateway
the Victoria-Saanich Tolmie Road border.
Developments has proposed a th ree or
Sold to Loblaw in 2006, the now-vacant
four-building development dubbed Lang-
holding at 760 Tolmie Avenue is on the
ford Gateway on Peatt Road at Arncote
market and includes a 100,000 square feet
Road. Gateway’s towers could stand as tall
in-tow lease for a Loblaw-branded grocery
13
Victoria, BC
Courtenay, BC
Vancouver, BC
#201-862 Cloverdale Avenue (250) 381-6331
#210-2960 Moray Avenue (250) 871-8662
#300-10851 Shellbridge Way (604) 284-5003
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WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA
Citified.ca store.
comprised of nearly 600 rental apartments
Saanich’s Home Depot will grow larger if council approves the latest changes to a redevelopment proposal of a shopping mall on Shelbourne Street at McKenzie Avenue.
14
and 165,000 square feet of commercial space. Saanich council has voted to send the project to a public hearing.
Vancouver-based developer Wesbild Hold-
A creatively-designed proposal along Saan-
ings, which initially proposed a new vision
ich’s upper Douglas Street corridor could
for University Heights Shopping Centre
become a mixed-use landmark with rental
in the fall of 2017, has submitted updated
residences and modern retail units.
documents to the District of Saanich call-
Victoria’s Aryze Developments and Win-
ing for an expanded Home Depot by some
nipeg-based 5468796 Architecture have
9,200 square feet, bringing the total store
envisioned a six-storey, 169-unit rental
footprint to 85,000 square feet, and several
complex for Island Outfitters’ former loca-
amendments to what it hopes will become
tion at 3319 Douglas Street. If built, the pro-
a mixed-use retail and residential project
ject will stand as one of the earliest adopters of Saanich’s new Uptown-Douglas Plan guiding the build-out and densification of the district’s core.
SOOKE A newly constructed condominium has a
Above: Coldstar Solutions Inc / Below: Travino Condominiums
listing on the market that could set a record among the town’s real-estate offerings. T he Residences on Sooke Ha rbou r, a four-storey, 27-suite waterfront developCOMMERCIAL
INDUSTRIAL
INSTITUTIONAL
M U LT I - FA M I LY
H O S P I TA L I T Y
R E C R E AT I O N A L
ment in Sooke’s town centre, was completed last summer at the foot of Maple Avenue South and one of its penthouse listings in a two-bedroom, two-bathroom configuration
October 2021
Citified.ca has been listed for sale at $1.1 million. The
Avenue) will deliver 34 two, three and
price fat outpaces prior local condominium
four-bedroom townhouses to the up-and-
prices topping out in the mid-$700,000
coming neighbourhood.
price range (also at the same project) and
A homeless shelter on Russell Street in Vic
potentially setting a new top-end valuation
West will be transformed into 40 supportive
in Sooke at over $1,100 per square foot.
homes with construction to begin by mid2023, if plans outlined by BC Housing are
VICTORIA
approved.
Local homebuilder Formwell Homes has
BC Housing, as part of a community in-
unveiled its first residential project as de-
formation session held in July, says it plans
mand for ‘missing middle’ housing reaches
to submit a formal rezoning application to
an all-time high in Victoria.
the City of Victoria this fall. The agency is
Formwell co-founders Sam Ganong and Kyle
seeking approvals to transform a warehouse
Ryan – no strangers to the Capital’s real-es-
facility at 225 Russell Street, currently be-
tate development industry with a combined
ing used as a homeless shelter, into a resi-
30-years during which they helped deliver
dential complex managed by Victoria’s O ur
more than 800-units of single- and multi-
Place Society.
family housing – have joined efforts on a traditionally-inspired townhome develop-
Mike Kozakowski is with Citified Media and can be reached at mike@citifiedmedia.com
ment in the Burnside Gorge community. Known as Washington, Formwell’s introductory offering (at 3080 Washing ton GREATER VICTORIA’S COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE LEADERS.
R FOALE S
$995,000
R FOALE S
$4,250,000
R FOALE S
$3,000,000
SO
RM L FI EA D
LD
CHRIS RUST
PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT INVESTMENT PROPERTIES GROUP
250 386 0005 chris.rust@cbre.com
ROSS MARSHALL PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT INVESTMENT PROPERTIES GROUP
250 386 0004
ross.marshall@cbre.com
858 Devonshire Road Esquimalt, BC
4,429 Sq. Ft. Two Level Industrial Strata Opportunity
5-601 Boleskine Road
2925 Tillicum Road
1400 Quadra Street
1032 North Park
11,568 Sq. Ft. Industrial Strata Unit with National Tenant and Covenant
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Mixed-Use Rental Building in the Heart of Downtown Victoria
11 Suite Boutique Apartment Building Steps From Downtown Victoria
Saanich, BC
Saanich, BC
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1026 FORT STREET, VICTORIA, BC, V8V 3K4 CBRE LIMITED, REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE
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15
OFF THE COVER
WENSTOB MAKES THE CUT IN NETFLIX’ BIG TIMBER WENSTOB TIMBER RESOURCES MANUFACTURING FOREST PRODUCTS AND MEMORABLE TELEVISION IN SOOKE
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SOOKE – Cut! That word has three distinct applications for Wenstob Timber Resources, a forestry company whose mandate is to cut down Vancouver Island trees and manufacture them into a variety of timber products at their Sooke sawmill. Cut is also the word producers use as they film a second season of Big Timber, the popular Netflix and History Canada television series that features owners Kevin Wenstob and Sarah Fleming and their employees, following their dangerous work as they go to extremes to keep the family sawmill, and their way of life, alive. Cut, as in cutting through red tape. As chronicled in the Big Timber series, Wenstob is in the midst of trying to cut through provincial government red tape in order to continue operating profitably. BC’s Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resources has levied a $1 million penalty against Wenstob for failing to meet time commitments for clearing a stand of timber along the Alberni Canal. In a twist of irony, the tardiness was caused when Wenstob identified several large, oldgrowth ‘legacy’ cedar trees that needed to be preserved. To protect the environment. When they notified the province about the trees, ensuing delays made it impossible to meet the
Kevin Wenstob, co-owner of Wenstob Timber Resources
predetermined time deadlines for completing the log harvest. “It’s an ongoing situation,” Wenstob explains. “There were no allowances for finding the legacy trees on the plot, and no time was added to the contract for them. We didn’t get it harvested according to the contract because of it, and the Minister denied our explanation. . .then we were given a stumpage bill for product we weren’t able to harvest.” Wenstob is appealing and could find another route for relief through waste assessment on the logging site. But it’s still in limbo – and in the meantime, Kevin and the team have to work harder to see if they can get that $1 million October 2021
OFF THE COVER available in case it happens. It’s real-life, real-time drama in a compelling story that has already captured the attention of viewers. The 10-episode first season was broadcast on the History Canada channel starting on October 8, 2020, following filming from September 2019 to January 2020, and is available on Netflix. Season two has already been filmed, and will appear on History Canada in the summer of 2022. “The response overall has been absolutely fabulous,” states Fleming. “People have been reaching out to us from all over the world because of it, and for lumber sales as well. We’ve had lots of requests for lumber from the United Kingdom and Asia, and right now we’re so busy.” Big Timber is not pre-scripted, as film crews follow the company’s day-to-day logging operations, which includes a wide variety of activities, on land, sea and air via truck, boat and helicopter. Wenstob himself is a boat builder and sailor, and can fix just about anything with his mechanical know-how. “Everything we do is just more cool stuff,” says Wenstob. “When you can do things that are progressive and good for the environment and nature and turn it into an entertainment type of thing that is really cool.” Their road towards the TV series adventure started fairly innocently. Kevin is “an artist on all fronts”, says Fleming, who has always enjoyed taking photos. In 2018 they moved towards starting a program for YouTube, and created a two-minute “sizzle reel” of their action-packed lives which was partly to promote
WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA
Sarah Fleming is co-owner of Wenstob Timber Resources and stars in Big Timber, the television series about the company
their business, and also to find possible tenants and clients for their 16,000 square foot sound stage located on their property. “We never had many quality tenants for it, and our whole idea was to go to Banff and open some doors, and prove our credibility within the film industry,” she states. Mission accomplished, not just in finding clients for the sound stage, but a place on the world stage through Netflix. A True Family Business Wenstob Timber Resources is a family business in every sense of the word. Kevin and Sarah created the business after meeting in their early 20’s. After being an operating room nurse for 20 years, Sarah found herself drawing into the office as needed and is now irreplaceable, the cog around which the wheel turns.
17
OFF THE COVER
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Two sons, Erik and Jack Wenstob, also work in the business, and are masters of fixing all types of company machinery. Jack is also Sarah’s personal trainer. “Jack does a lot of weight lifting, and one day he said ‘Let’s try to turn back time’. So we started up over a year ago now,” she recalls. “It’s actually pretty addictive.” Business has grown steadily for Wenstob Timber Resources, with sales increasing each year. Their secret to success? “Hard work. Sweat. Tears. . .lots of tears. Pain,” says Wenstob. “And teamwork. It’s a lot of hard work and a lot of long hours,” Fleming adds. “This is not for the weak.” Their full-time focus, obviously, is the mill and gathering wood, preferably Western Red Cedar, which keeps the 10-14 full and part-time workers employed in their primary manufacturing facility. “Out here on the west coast, people like to use cedar for building decks and for siding,” he says. “We also do a lot of fir timber for structural products. . .big timber and small timbers.” They have typical logging equipment: trucks and grapple yarders, etc., as well as boats that they use for beachcombing. When inclement weather prohibits them from accessing their tree licenses in the mountains, they head to the ocean to find valuable logs that are suitable for milling. “Beachcombing has been helpful, especially if timber is buried in snow and there is restricted access,” Wenstob notes. “If you can only start logging in the fall, you have to stop when the
weather changes, and there’s too much wood left behind. “We get wood from a lot of different sources, but mostly we use our own,” says Wenstob. “I’ve been doing this forever. I started cutting down trees when I was 12 and it’s always been what I do. I still have all my fingers and toes and I’ve never been squashed, so I’m not too bad it.” Big Timber Shares Big Picture That is evident to viewers of Big Timber. It has become an important part of their business as it gives viewers a window into the realities of a family-run small business, from harvesting to cash flow. “I don’t know if it’s changed our lives too much, but it’s made us a little busier,” Fleming allows. “It’s a bit like looking in a mirror.” Wenstob chips in: “Everybody gets to reflect about who they are, and think ‘Hey, I don’t look that bad,” which elicits a chuckle from Fleming. “Big Timber is a great show, and we hope people keep watching,” she adds. “I think season two is so much better than season one. The crew has been great and they make it fun. Every season is going to be better and better, as long as we keep going.” https://www.facebook.com/WTRXemex
October 2021
TOURISM
FALL MARKETING CAMPAIGN TO BUILD ON MOMENTUM FROM SUMMER The August 2021 Greater Victoria visitor economy statistics were released recently. They reveal what many in the industry were observing: Visitation to Greater Victoria in the summer was robust and driven largely by CanPAUL NURSEY adians. For example, hotel occupancy was almost 76 per cent. In August 2020, hotel occupancy was 51 per cent. Average daily room rate in August 2021 was $265.93. In August 2020 it was $183.11. The Greater Victoria accommodation sector has shown tremendous resilience and leadership throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. It is gratifying to see these summer numbers following so many difficult months. As uplifting as this news was for our battered industry, there remain persistent challenges. Access to American and international markets remain difficult. This has created an uneven recovery, as attractions, experiences and some transportation operators that rely more on these customers continue to struggle. A focus of Destination Greater Victoria in the months ahead will be to support these valued members and advocate on their behalf. Despite the challenges, Destination Greater Victoria will build on momentum from the summer and is proud to announce the launch of our 2021 fall marketing campaign. The campaign launched on Friday, October 15 and targets travellers in British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario. It will encourage travellers to enjoy Just Another
WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA
Perfect Day in Victoria. Destination Greater Victoria will use marketing methods such as paid advertising, paid and earned social media, pay-per-click advertising, and dedicated blog content. Greater Victoria has always had strong shoulder season and off-peak season attributes. Boasting Canada’s mildest climate, Greater Victoria’s coastal charm remains accessible while much of Canada enters winter. Visitors can enjoy all our great attractions and sights, without the crowds of summer. A 15-second television commercial will run on Bell Media networks in Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto. The tagline of the video “Just Another Perfect Day in Victoria” emphasizes the guests’ ability to make the most out of their trip, explore the region and enjoy the mild climate. Pay-perclick display and discovery ads will feature the tagline “One More ____” (I.E. “One More Bite, One More Night”). The concept of “One More” encourages guests to leave no stone unturned during their visit to Greater Victoria and to go out and enjoy another meal, another activity, another day, and another night. We look forward to welcoming visitors as fall continues. Our industry is ready to provide unforgettable experiences no matter what you are looking for – and throughout the year. Paul Nursey is the President and CEO of Destination Greater Victoria
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ADVISORY
MEET LUKE BILES, BUSINESS ADVISOR, PRIVATE ENTERPRISE AT MNP
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LUKE BILES A new partner in MNP’s Victoria office, Luke is an entrepreneurial accountant who brings hands-on experience working with a successful start up. He prioritizes building relationships and connecting his clients with the people who can help them succeed. Did you always want to become an accountant?
My dream job when I was a kid was robot inventor. I started my Bachelor of Commerce at Memorial University in Newfoundland and aced my first accounting course, so there was a natural fit. How would you characterize your professional self?
October 2021
ADVISORY I am entrepreneurial and love conquering the challenges that come with that. Before joining MNP, I was employee #4 at a start-up company that’s now publicly traded, so I know what it means to wear multiple hats and have to adapt quickly, because I lived it. Our work isn’t just about numbers; everything has to be considered. My empathy allows me to see things from my clients’ perspective, which helps me communicate in a way that ensures they are truly informed. What is your role with MNP? My role as business advisor provides me with a lifestyle that I really enjoy; all day I am connecting with people and helping them achieve their goals. I find myself bridging connections within the firm but also externally. If I think two clients can help each other, I’ll get them together. I also enjoy creating networking events, which I have done most recently for the local cannabis industry, an exciting yet struggling sector full of passionate people. What’s the common thread that runs through your clients? My client base is diverse—the businesses you see on every corner of our community— so there’s lots of opportunity for working together. At the end of the day, they’re all people. They’re all living in the same dynamic, changing world, facing the same challenges, and everybody has something to offer. What are your clients’ biggest challenges? Labour, succession and technology solutions are key concerns for many local businesses
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right now. We spend a lot of time helping clients navigate through these processes and maximize the value of their businesses. What’s the number one piece of advice you’re giving clients right now? Engage in tax planning early to protect your business assets and stimulate growth and value for shareholders. What do you do when not working? I serve on the board of the Greater Victoria Housing Society. My partner and I were fortunate enough to acquire a home in Victoria, so we’re learning about everything that goes with that and enjoying the space with our rescue dog, Stella. I like dining out with friends, and I’m a Gamer with a capital G. What is the best thing about living in Victoria? The island reminds me so much of my home province of Newfoundland. But it’s the people that make it special. I click with them. These are my people and it’s been awesome.
Go to mnp.ca/meetluke or scan the code to see Luke’s video profile.
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WHO IS SUING WHOM The contents of W ho’s Suing W hom is provided by a third-party resource and is accu rate accord i ng to publ ic cou r t documents. Some of these cases may have been resolved by publication date.
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DEFENDANT Arrowsmith Roofing Ltd 2767 Powder Point Rd, Nanoose Bay, BC PLAINTIFF Central Builders Supply Limited CLAIM $31,683
$11,684
DEFENDANT B And E Glass And Mirror 2011 Inc 721 Pembroke St, Victoria Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Standard Aluminum Products Inc CLAIM
DEFENDANT Domcor Health Safety & Security Inc 1275A Cypress St, Campbell River, BC Dennis, Alfred CLAIM $35,156
DEFENDANT CAC I ndu st r i a l Equipment Ltd 216-2506 Beacon Ave, Sidney, BC Focubiz Canada Ltd CLAIM $17,618
DEFENDANT
Domcor Health Safety & Security Inc 1275A Cypress St, Campbell River, BC PLAINTIFF Goodyear, Tyson CLAIM $35,156 DEFENDANT Domcor Health Safety & Security Inc 1275A Cypress St, Campbell River, BC PLAINTIFF Lim, Jared CLAIM $35,156 DEFENDANT Domcor Health Safety & Security Inc 1275A Cypress St, Campbell River, BC PLAINTIFF Dobbswall, Josie CLAIM
$35,156 DEFENDANT Dr Daniella Andrade Inc 3365 Peri meter Close, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Turner, Toni Nicole CLAIM $8,840 DEFENDANT Dr Sabrina Longchamps Inc 3773 Marjorie Way, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Medi Dent Developments Ltd CLAIM $190,560 DEFENDANT Eye Care Nanaimo 202-6330 Dover Rd, Nanaimo, BC
PLAINTIFF Christensen, Haley CLAIM $35,176 DEFENDANT Freedom Cannabis Inc 1700-10175 101st St NW, Edmonton, AB PLAINTIFF Pixel Union Design Ltd CLAIM $65,051 DEFENDANT Griffith Holdings Ltd 201-467 Cumberland Rd, Courtenay, BC PLAINTIFF Novakowski, Stephanie I CLAIM $35,000
Region
Project Address
Project Type
Project Details
Low Bid / Award
Amount
Esquimalt
CFB Esquimalt
Consulting services
A and B Jetty Commissioning Authority
WSP
Esquimalt
CFB Esquimalt
Demolition/deconstruction
Deconstruct Dockyard Turntable
Luxton Construction
Saanich
Various locations
Consulting services
Transportation Design
Morrison Hershfield
North Saanich
Various locations
Consulting services
Watermain Replacement
McElhanney
Langford
Goldstream Watershed Area
Roads & bridges
G620 Bridge
Heavy Metal Marine
CRD - Gulf Islands
Drake Rd
Roads & bridges
Drake Road Trail
Skylark Management Corp
CRD - Gulf Islands
135 Crofton Rd, SSI
Institutional add/alter
Emergency Room Expansion - Lady Minto
Western Medical Contracting
North Cowichan
Pine St, Chemainus
Institutional add/alter
Kinsmen Beach Park - Washrooms
Rolling Tides Construction
Nanaimo
Parkway Trail
Roads & bridges
Asphalt Repair 2021
Lafarge Canada Inc
Lantzville
Mart Rd
Roads & bridges
Metro and Mart Paving Improvements
IWC Excavation Ltd
$433,902
Nanaimo RD
Various locations
Consulting services
NBPWSA Watermain Projects
Milestone Equipment Contracting
$517,203
Comox
19 Wing, CFB Comox
Roads & bridges
Runway 18 - 36 Crack Sealing
Wacor Holdings
$825,000
Courtenay
278 Old Island Hwy
Commercial add/alter
CV Dodge Dealership
Knappett Projects
Campbell River
S Dogwood
Institutional new
New Traffic Signal - S Dogwood - S Alder
Daeco Installations Ltd
Port Hardy
Carrot Rotary Park
Consulting services
Washroom Design
Stantec Architecture
$900,000 $1,276,750 N/A $269,237 N/A $128,470 $6,660,000 $450,000 N/A
N/A $187,575 N/A
October 2021
WHO IS SUING WHOM DEFENDANT Hybrid Plumbing Ltd 201-300 Gorge Rd West, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF P e a rl m a n L i n dholm Barristers & Solicitors CLAIM $17,612 DEFENDANT L ef t Coa st Construction 4826 Lambeth Rd, Campbell River, BC PLAINTIFF Morris, Michelle Dawn CLAIM $7,819 DEFENDANT Magnolia Hotel Ltd 623 Courtney St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF
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Mason, Wylie CLAIM $35,216 DEFENDANT Mellor Mobile Mechanical Inc 2769 Lowery Rd, Duncan, BC PLAINTIFF Specialtgraphics Ltd CLAIM $6,904 DEFENDANT M idwest Isla nd Woodworking Inc 108-13049 76th Ave, Surrey, BC PLAINTIFF Titan GMS Limited Partnership CLAIM $7,498 DEFENDANT Ocean Island Inn
Backpackers Suites Ltd 3rd Flr 26 Bastion Square, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Martzoucos, John CLAIM $8,519 DEFENDANT Panda Gas Services Ltd 919 Hem lock St, Campbell River, BC PLAINTIFF Andrew Sheret Limited CLAIM $9,881 DEFENDANT Pro Power Engine And Machine 6921 East Saanich Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF McPherson, Charles
Rory CLAIM $12,156 DEFENDANT Truck It Delivery Inc 9495 Glenelg Ave, North Saanich, BC PLAINTIFF Island Cruising Ltd CLAIM $35,276 DEFENDANT Pure Engineering Ltd 89 Carswell Rd SE, Medicine Hat, AB PLAINTIFF Cook Roberts LLP CLAIM $15,595 DEFENDANT QMT Manufacturing Inc 112-81 Golden Dr, Coquitlam, BC
PLAINTIFF Droid Media Communications Inc CLAIM $35,216 DEFENDANT Sprout Meadows Enterprises Ltd 906 Island Hw y, Campbell River, BC PLAINTIFF Kent Moeller Inc CLAIM $6,232 DEFENDANT Western Promotions Ltd 2207 Millstream Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Western Speedway 1966 Ltd CLAIM $16,430
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OPINION
ARE OUTDATED FOREST POLICIES ENCOURAGING FOREST FIRE DISASTERS?
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During hot su m mers l i ke we’ve just endu red, aga i n, temperatures rise – and we’re not just ta l ki ng about t he thermometers. Conversations swirl about the impacts of global MARK MACDONALD warming/clim ate ch a n ge, and how if that isn’t addressed, we are doomed for more of the same. The solution? More taxes, of course, to fight it. And voila, extra justification for carbon taxes, to somehow make people feel good for paying more at the gas pump. . .something akin to a cleansing of the conscience. Isn’t it amazing that with all the technology used in weather predicting, the best experts can barely tell us what the weather is going to be like four days out. Yet they are absolutely convinced that the weather is going to be such-and-such in 100 years. With all of this conversation, and knowing that nature is powerful and most often uncontrollable despite the best of human intentions, we never stop to look at mitigation and preparation in order to protect the environment, our prized possessions, and ourselves, from hot weather – the precursor to forest fires which plague our
province with increasing frequency. Why not ask the question: Is there anything we can do to reduce forest fires and drought – and if not, at least prepare better for them? Yes we can. More people are beginning to ask aloud about the impact of provincial forest policies, much of those driven by ideologies that make removal of any kind to be anathema. For decades now, the government – echoed by mainstream media – has demonized clear cutting of forests. Mostly it’s in favour of selective harvesting. Yet when the experts get involved with fighting fires, what do they effectively use? Clear cuts – although they’re not called that, of course. They create “fire barriers”, which is where swaths of trees are cut down so that flames can’t jump across the chasm between what is already burning and what could be next. Selective logging sounds good in theory, but in reality, what it does is encourage logging operations to choose the best wood standing in the forest and harvest that. What is left is deficient, often-diseased, broken trees that become like stands of kindling, ready to explode at the first spark. When BC was plagued with pine beetles that attacked trees, the government was perpetually slow dealing with the problem. Which left multiplied acres of dried pine wood, laced with its natural resins that act like gasoline during a fire. There is zero likelihood that citizens would accept a return to the “dreaded clear cut” method of logging. But perhaps if it was re-packaged as creating
October 2021
OPINION fire barriers, might people be more accepting? With the desire to live amongst oxygen-producing trees, urban sprawl has gravitated outwards into nature, and in most cases, there is no fire barrier at all. If a fire were to start in the forest, it’s literally in the backyards of subdivisions, leaving no chance for escape. What is uglier? Forests that have been clear cut, or the aftermath of forest fires? Other jurisdictions are starting to be more pro-active in this regard. In a recent article on the state of fires in California, James Johnston, a forest management and wildfire expert at Oregon State University, stated the world needs to “stop waiting for vast tracts of the continent to catch fire before thinking about how to deal with the problem.” “It’s true that the only way to fight fire is with fire,” Johnston said. “We don’t have a choice about whether to have a fire, but we do have some choices about where and when.” Another story in the Powell River Peak cited the successes occurring in Australia, where traditional Indigenous burning practices of setting fire to the land in the right way at the right way at the right time can ramp up biodiversity. University of British Columbia researcher Kira Hoffman told Glacier Media “Overwhelmingly, Indigenous fire stewardship and cultural burning practices almost always benefit or enhance biodiversity. . .across all scales. “If we had more cultural burning, we’d have a very different looking landscape. . .a lot more open, lot less dead and dying trees on the ground – man forests would have trees of different ages,” Hoffman states. “It doesn’t stop fire from coming in, but it can slow them down.” Another unpopular issue is the building of WWW.BUSINESSEX AMINER.CA
reservoirs. Isn’t it amazing that Vancouver Island, deluged with rain for over half the year, has water shortages in the summer? Rain pelts down throughout the winter and much of the spring, joining rivers and creeks as they run right into the ocean. We have plenty of rain and water, just not when we need it. Why, then, aren’t we storing more it for use in warmer weather, including for fighting fires and irrigation? Are these ultimate solutions? Perhaps not. But they should at least become part of conversations within the provincial resource ministries to help prepare for disasters beforehand instead of sighing and blaming the weather while the province burns. Mark MacDonald is President of Communication Ink Media & Public Relations Ltd. and can be reached at mark@ communicationink.ca
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PODCAST
From the Trenches British Columbia business stories and commentary
ADVISORY
WHAT TO DO IF YOU’VE BEEN SCAMMED
KATHARINA SCHULTE-BISPING
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October is Cyber Security Awareness Month. As a small business owner, you are probably spending more time than ever online, so staying safe needs to be top of mind. These days you can securely and conveniently access online banking 24/7. To ensure your online safety, financial institutions use critical measures like secure channels and robust encryption and authentication to protect your privacy and information. But fraudsters never sleep, so remember you are a vital link in the chain keeping your online banking accounts safe. If you’ve fallen victim to a scam or lost a credit card, act quickly to secure your accounts by: Reporting possible fraud as soon as possible: For credit and debit cards, contact your financial institution immediately if they’re stolen or you find payments you didn’t make. You can also put a fraud alert on your credit report. Contacting authorities and closing your account if funds have been taken: Immediately file a police report, and then contact your financial institution to shut down the affected account.
Checking your credit report carefully: Fraudsters could open and then overdraw a new account in your name. If you see evidence of fraud, contact your financial institution. Once you’ve secured any compromised accounts, make sure you close any gaps in your cybersecurity. Create a strong unique password and keep in mind any phone, text or email requests for banking details, including your PAC or PIN, are fraudulent. Don’t respond! Phishing scams will often order you to “unlock” or “verify” your account. Your financial institution will never ask you to do this. You should also keep your devices up to date, set up online banking alerts and monitor your transactions on a regular basis so you know what’s going on in your accounts. Never send personal financial information by email or message. Avoid phishing websites by typing in the address of your financial institution manually or using your own bookmarks and never click on unsolicited links. And don’t forget to set up 2-factor authentication whenever it’s available! Get more tips at cccu.ca on foiling fraud. Taking these steps will help you breathe easier and make fraudsters’ lives harder. If you would like more information about growing your business, give Coastal Community Credit Union a call at 1.888.741.1010. Katharina Schulte-Bisping is an Assistant Manager for Coastal Community Credit Union in the Comox Valley.
October 2021
FEATURE STORY
ISL CUSTOMS BROKERS NAVIGATES IMPORTING, EXPORTING VANCOUVER ISLAND – Bringing goods into Canada and sending them to other countries is not as easy as it sounds. Importing and exporting businesses have enough on their hands making their products, and rely on experts like ISL Customs Brokers, a division of Summit International Trade Services Inc., to help them navigate through red tape and government regulations. “We provide a service like a lawyer or an accountant would offer,” notes Gary Eng, General Manager of the customs brokers and trade consultants firm. “We basically offer services that help businesses deal with government duties and taxes and imports. We are a full service customs broker, and we offer all relevant services for bringing goods into Canada.” ISL Customs Brokers are experts on Canada Border Services Agency rules and appeals, and can provide consulting to help people start an import business. They also can help set up warehousing for clients. Other services include importing vehicles, refunds and drawbacks, temporary imports and bonded warehouse entries. Summit purchased ISL Customs Brokers from Brian O’Connell in 2019, and serve Vancouver Island clients from their office on Front Street in Nanaimo. Eng has been in the importing business for 45 years, and Summit, started by the Kendall family in 1991, has its head office at the Vancouver Airport in Richmond. “We’re all about servicing the local market. We’re still focused on building long-term relationships at ISL and our goal is to improve the services offered,” Eng states. ISL Customs Brokers team members are adept at helping clients with appeals to Canada Border Services Agency rulings. “Our highly trained customs specialists are
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ready and happy to guide your through the process, and are ready to help determine the best course of action,” Eng states. “We can guide our clients step by step through the appeals process. ”We are dedicated to understanding the nature and inner workings of each clients’ business to best serve them.” Business has grown steadily over the years, and although like many companies, navigating COVID proved challenging, “We’ve remained quite balanced. We dropped a few percentage points, but it has picked up and come back,” he adds. Eng says the company is pleased to donate back into the communities it serves, and tries to focus on child-based organizations. They recently participated in the Cops For Cancer fundraiser. “We believe strongly in giving back to the community and participate in a variety of charitable events, such as our very popular annual Softball Slam, with all proceeds going to the Hope for Kids charity,” he states. Summit also serves the aviation and wine industries with consulting, customs clearances, refunds, duty drawbacks, appeals and all customs-related issues. “We pride ourselves in helping businesses handle imports through all modes of transport — truck, rail, ship, and air — no matter which province goods enter Canada,” Eng concludes. www.islcustomsbrokers.com
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MOVERS AND SHAKERS
FLIPSIDE PLASTICS TURNING RECYCLED PLASTIC INTO NEW PRODUCTS VICTORIA COMPANY SUPPORTED BY $50,000 FROM CLEANBC PLASTICS ACTION FUND
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VICTORIA – Flipside Plastics has been putting $50,000 from the provincial CleanBC Plastics Action Fund to good use. The Victoria start-up, which focuses on micro-recycling and manufacturing, is using the funding it received in the spring to support its pilot project to gather and process plastic waste and “upcycle” it into new products for sale on Vancouver Island. Recipients of the funding provide at least onethird of eligible costs towards the total cost of the projects, which must be completed by Dec. 31, 2021. Projects were chosen based on their ability to increase processing capacity, increase the use of post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic in manufacturing or support PCR plastic product research, design and testing. “The circular economy in B.C. shows great promise for economic recovery, reducing emissions and recycling plastics into new products,” said Jill Doucette, executive director of the Synergy Foundation, a Victoria-based non-profit that supports the administration of the fund. “In B.C., we have incredible industry leaders in plastic recycling, and this support will help take their efforts to the next level.” Laska Pare founded Flipside Plastics in 2017 and is the “Chief Vision Officer” of the company, which supports the entire recycling process on Vancouver Island under one roof – from sourcing, collection, sorting and shredding, all
the way to creating new plastic products. The company website states: “ Normally, the recycling process is done i n stages and involves shipping to multiple stakeholders off the island in hopes it gets Flipside Plastics founder recycled someplace Laska Pare else. “Having a full-cycle centre on the island means eliminating the extra time, energy, greenhouse gases and cost it requires to see the process through elsewhere. It also ensures integrity behind each step of the process, and that all materials that come through our facilities are beneficially recycled into new retail products – closing the loop.” The Fund disperses $5 million to encourage innovative technologies to turn used plastics into new products, support the circular economy for plastics and increase local processing capacity for recycling and create new jobs. The funded projects will replace or recycle over 20,000 tons of plastic per year. Global plastics recycling generates an estimated $75 billion a year through major companies committed to using more recycled content to reduce plastics.
October 2021
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
The Victoria Chamber has added Capt. (N) J. Jeffery Hutchinson, CFB Esquimalt’s new ba se commander, to their Board of Directors. Hutchinson takes over from Capt. (N) Sam Sader who has been reassigned to a new role Capt J. Jeffery Hutchinson of in Ottawa. As with previCFB Esquimalt ous CFB Esquimalt Base Commanders, The Chamber appointed Capt. (N) Hutchinson to its Board of Directors. He also serves on The Chamber’s Public Policy and Advocacy Committee. Victoria Cool Aid Society’s Crosstown complex from 3020 Douglas Street to 584 Burnside Rd. East is now under construction. The project which includes 154 affordable rental homes, is scheduled to be completed in the winter of 2023. A five-storey, 153-unit rental complex on Gorge Road East in Victoria has officially begun construction. A public plaza, a children’s play area,
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and public art will be included in the project, which will replace six single-family houses in Burnside Gorge. Its developers are PC Urban Properties Corp. and Fiera Real Estate CORE. The Lansdowne Middle School grounds will soon be home to a new school for Victoria’s youngest Francophones. GVSD sold 7.3 acres of the 25-acre Lansdowne grounds to the provincial Francophone school district, CSFBC (CSF). The government financed the $15 million transactions. Royal Roads University inaugurated its newly renovated Dogwood Auditorium, with Esquimalt-Metchosin MLA Mitzi Dean hailing the structure as a major asset to the West Shore. For Teacher Appreciation Day on October 5th, Accent Inns honoured educators with complimentary hotel stays. The Province of British Columbia has formally renewed Destination Greater Victoria as the Official Destination Marketing Organization
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MOVERS AND SHAKERS for the period 2022-2026. Coastal Community Credit Union is donating $10,000 to HeroWork Victoria to support the Indigenous Perspectives Society’s remodelling project (IPS).
Reach The Masses Words and Images are what Communication Ink Social Media & Public Relations is all about - getting your message out to the masses clearly, concisely and powerfully. Whether it be press releases for your company, writing for your website, photography and videos, or communication through Social Media, our team of writers and strategists is ready to get to work!
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Social Media
The Oak Bay Beach Hotel was ranked nineteenth on Conde Nast Traveller’s list of the world’s finest hotels.
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Salt Spring Coffee marks 25 years of Sustainable Coffee Production with the launch of a new coffee collection produced using regenerative organic agricultural practices.
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The City of Victoria created the Solar Rooftop Tool with the University of British Columbia and the University of Victoria to educate Victoria citizens and businesses about their building’s solar panel potential. The entrepreneurial women in Camosun College’s Mosaic Tastes have been recognized with the CWB (Canadian Western Bank) Women Makers and Creator’s award 2021 for Best Business Implementation. The Innovator Skills Initiative from Innovate BC may help BC businesses hire digital talent
October 2021
MOVERS AND SHAKERS up to $10,000. Saanich Deputy Fire Chief Frank Macdonald celebrated the last day of his 35-year career, retiring with numerous honors and achievements on September 29. Pauquachin First Nation asks North Saanich for help reintroducing shellfish harvesting in Coles Bay. Council heard from the Nation, through Octavio Cruz, Pauquachin’s marine reporting supervisor. The Canadian Shellfish Sanitation Program; Calvin Sandborn, legal director of the University of Victoria’s Environmental Law Centre; Christa Croos and Camille O’Sullivan all work at the center. Trevor Price and Laurie Szadkowski have been chosen as new directors of the Sooke Region Historical Society. Reynolds Antiques and Collectibles, a familyowned and run buy-sell-trade firm specialized in estates and downsizing, has opened its doors at 2047 Otter Point Road in Sooke.
well-known Paralegal Services Provider, located at #2C – 6631 Sooke Road, joins the Sooke Chamber. The City of Langford and Nolan Riding Mountain Ride Coaching are collaborating to offer scholarships for children to learn to mountain bike. The Goldstream Farmers Market is extending its season to accommodate Christmas. Normally held every Saturday from May through October in Veterans Memorial Park, the market announced shortly before Thanksgiving that it will extend until Nov. 27. The Greater Victoria Harbour Authority has been certified silver by the Canadian Council of Aboriginal Business as part of its Progressive Aboriginal Relations program.
T he Sooke Chamber welcomes Hanging with Hounds, owned and operated by Sharon Labossiere.
Five Victoria-based companies were featured on The Globe and Mail’s 2021 Canada’s Top Growing Companies: #22: Certn (2,441 per cent 3-yr growth), #74: FreshWorks Studio (780 per cent 3-yr growth), #88: DeeBee’s Organics (699 per cent 3-yr growth), #253: STN Video (146 per cent 3-yr growth), #404: First Light Technologies (66 per cent 3-yr growth).
Reliance Signature Services, a reputable and
A 136-acre pa rcel of l a nd located at 1
Podcasts
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Listen to construction procurement specialist Katy Fairley of Fairley Strategies on the latest episode.
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MOVERS AND SHAKERS Trans-Canada Highway in Mill Bay, British Columbia, has been sold for $10.25 million. City and downtown economic recovery continue in new data from May, June, and July. There has been a 55 per cent rise in new company licenses issued as a result of Victoria 3.0 Recovery, Reinvention, and Resilience activities. The City’s Business Hub is working hard to make doing business in Victoria simpler. The City of Victoria is currently accepting applications for its community garden start-up grant for 2021. The funding covers a maximum of $5,000 for design and public engagement and a maximum of $10,000 for construction. The deadline for application is on October 22.
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Victoria Conservatory of Music, Chairman of the Board Shannon von Kaldenberg, announced the resignation of CEO Jane Butler-McGregor.
The Food Stash Foundation has opened the Rescued Food Market, a pay-what-you-feel food store. Carla Pellegrini, executive director of Food Stash, said her organization recovers more than 30,000 kilograms of food each month and the market is one way it bridges the gap between food rescue and distribution. Cowichan Eyecare, owned and operated by optometrists Trevor Miranda and Anita Voisin and has locations in Chemainus, Lake Cowichan, Duncan, and Mill Bay, is set to launch its newest branch in Langford this fall. Victoria will be the host for the next 55+ BC Games to be held on September 2022, announced by the secretary of parliamentary for senior services and long-term care Mable Elmore, Victoria Coun. Jeremy Loveday, Destination Greater Victoria CEO Paul Nursey and the president of the games Micheal O’Connor.
October 2021
MOVERS AND SHAKERS Camila Estrada is appointed as The Chamber’s new Events and Administration Assistant. Victoria council has approved the proposal to build a 139-room hotel in Old Town Victoria, which was also supported by the Chamber. Chard Development is collaborating with UVic Properties on the development project for the Duck’s Building and Duck’s Carriage Factory into a Hyatt Centric-branded hotel. The Big Spoon Soup Company has opened its new location at the Victoria Public Market. The Root Cellar is opening its new branch at 271 Cook St. Victoria. Jenny Marie’s Crackers has transferred to its new location at 2740 Rock Bay Avenue in Victoria.
Ludwig, FunctionFox Systems (Returning), Sachen Macdonald, Checkfront (Newly Elected), Owen Matthews, Wesley Clover (Returning), Masoud Nassaji, DoubleJump (Re-Elected), Scott Phillips, StarFish Medical (Newly Elected), Rasool Rayani, Heart Pharmacy (Newly Elected), Scott Roberts, National Research Council (Newly Elected), Brad Williams, Echosec (Returning). Graeme Macaloney’s Twa Dogs Brewery and Caledonian Distillery in Saanich will benefit from council’s program that allows restaurants and cafes to maintain increased outdoor serving spaces until June 2022. WorkLink Employment Society’s Digital Literacy program in Langford and Sooke pairs youths with residents aged 55 and up to help them improve their computer literacy. The five-week Digital Duos course is financed by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for
The Victoria Innovation, Advanced Technology and Entrepreneurship Council (VIATEC) has announced the election and re-election of the following Board of Directors: Jim Balcom, Redlen Technologies (Newly Elected), Darren Beckwith, Barnacle Systems (Returning), Robert Bowness, BC Pension Corporation (Re-Elected), Maria Davidson, Udutu (Newly Elected), Sarah Gulbrandsen, RingPartner (Returning), Christina Jones, RaceRocks (Returning), Corina
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D R A W A
The iconic building at 1075 West Georgia, MacMillan Bloedel Building, commonly known as the “waffle”, has been renamed Arthur Erickson Place in honor of its designer, Canada’s greatest living architect.
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Moon Under Water, a small brewery and tavern in Victoria, took home a gold medal for its Potts Pilsner.
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MOVERS AND SHAKERS Seniors initiative. Sidney council has approved a $123,000 grant to North Saanich’s Enviro Float Manufacturing to launch improvements at Tulista Park. Beacon Brewing, a small batch, non-distribution brewery, will be opening up in Sidney in the new Oceanna building. Kinetic Construction, led by CEO Tom Plumb, is celebrating its 37th anniversary James Murray is the new senior associate of Avison Young in Victoria, BC.
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Jaimie Isaac has been named the next chief curator of the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria. Isaac worked as the Indigenous and Contemporary Arts curator at the Winnipeg Art Gallery as a member of the Sagkeeng First Nation.
Tom Plumb
PC Urba n P rop er ties and its partner Fiera Real Estate CORE Fund (the “Fu nd”) h ave sta r ted construction on a new, purpose-built rental development in Victoria at the corner of Gorge Road.
Canoe Brewpub, housed in the iconic City Lights building on Victoria’s Inner Harbour, will serve its last pint. Canoe will close its doors on October 18th to undergo a substantial makeover and take on a new form under the CRAFT Beer Market Brand. Camosun College is launching the “CamSTAR,” an interactive, online learning tool that teaches students how to use structured
storytelling to connect their skills, behaviors, and competencies in ways that resonate with prospective employers. The tool was developed by Camosun’s Applied Learning, Co-op Education, and Career Services departments. The acronym “STAR” stands for “situation, task, action, and result,” which students utilize to structure their responses to behavioral interview questions. Big Bus Victoria, a sightseeing bus operator best known for its largely open-air converted school buses, has been placed on the market for sale. BC Hydro continues to make great progress in restoring damaged undersea cables servicing Vancouver Island. BC Hydro will engage with Capital Power to see if the Island Generation facility can provide temporary backup capacity and supply while repairs are performed. Victoria’s former bus depot located on the corner of Douglas and Belleville streets within the Crystal Garden complex is being converted into a parklet. Island Outfitters on Douglas Street is being redeveloped into a six-story mixed-use apartment and retail building by Aryze Developments. The Better Business Bureau servicing Vancouver Island (BBB) announced the finalists for the 2021 Torch Awards. The winners of this year’s Torch Awards will be announced at the Union Club of British Columbia’s gala dinner and awards celebration on Friday, November 5, 2021. The Victoria area finalists are: Building Contractor - MAC Renovations and Yager Construction; Community Service - Auxilium Mortgage Corporation, Luv-A-Rug Services and Pain Free Tax & Bookkeeping Service; Custom & Specialty
October 2021
MOVERS AND SHAKERS Cleaning: Twa Dogs Brewery and ServiceRemovALL Remediation Services; Customer Service: 4 Pillars Consulting and Comfort Keepers; Heating & Air Conditioning: #1 FlameTech Heating and Red Blue Heating & Refrigeration; Home Improvement - Enerheat - Windows, Doors & Renovations, Island Dream Kitchens and Van Isle Windows; Masonry & Stoneworks - CBS Masonry, CBS Stoneworks and Vista Masonry; Movers: Home Again Seniors Transition Services and Mikus Transport; Plumbers – Royal Bay Plumbing, The Super Plumber and Wade Roberts Plumbing; Property Maintenance and Improvement - Aztec Maintenance Victoria; Roofing Contractor - Victoria Roofing & Insulation; Spark Award Recipients - Enrollment Resources, Interactive Construction, Monk Office and The Parkside Hotel & Spa. DSA Media (David Stanger & Associates Inc), has been renamed MEDIOLOGY. Shannon Schafer (pictured), Partner and Director of Client Strategy, is a leader for their Vancouver Island operations. Shannon Schafer President Sam Richardson and four senior managing partners acquired the business following the retirement of founders David and Mary Stanger in 2019 A 50-unit supportive housing development is now under construction just west of Cook Street. The facility is one of six planned for Victoria, Saanich, and Central Saanich as part of a nearly 300-unit BC Housing effort to house homeless persons in the Capital Region. The District of Saanich will upgrade the Cedar
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MOVERS AND SHAKERS Hill Golf Course by implementing recommendations from a recent golf services assessment. Global Golf Associates, an international consulting organization, undertook a complete study of golf course operations in early 2021. Key recommendations include: Fees and rates: The peak fee will be increased, the yearly pass will be phased out, and a continuous or ‘flex’ pass will be introduced. Capital priorities: Drainage improvements were recognized as one of several short and long-term construction needs. Relationship with Cedar Hill Golf Club: Changing our relationship with the Cedar Hill Golf Club and aligning the practices with those of municipal golf courses. Future operating structure: A business model in which a golf management company manages both the golf course and the concessionary food and beverage service.
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Gerry Esselink, a Sooke Airbnb host, was named the most hospitable host in British Columbia by Airbnb. FUCA Cycles, located at 5871 Sooke Rd., is now open.
Ashley McCartie
Ashley McCartie is named as the Victoria Chamber of Commerce’ new events manager. She brings 15 years of expertise in the non-profit sector, including event design, participant and stakeholder stewardship, sponsorship activation, and volunteer
complex, is pleased with the council’s approval of their liquor license application. Greg Jackson, CPA, CMA, has been appointed as CFO of Cosigo Resources Ltd. He has roughly 20 years of financial and accounting expertise, primarily in the mining sector, including 8 years in finance at Sherritt International Corp., a global leader in nickel and cobalt mining and refining with a $479 million annual revenue. Alexandrite Real Estate will soon open its new office at 1967 Oak Bay Avenue in Victoria. Haunted Manor, a mini-golf business at 715 Yates St. in downtown Victoria, owned by Jeff Roberts, is opening this fall. The Capital Regional District’s nominal post on the Victoria Airport Authority board of directors is now open for applications. The Centennial United Church, formerly known as the Centennial Methodist Church in 1885, is undergoing a facelift with the assistance of CBS Stoneworks and local companies. The Township Community Arts Council is thrilled to announce the September 25th opening of Gallery Splash! which is located at Esquimalt Town Square. The Town of View Royal has launched an online tracker that details how its earnings – which come from taxpayers at a rate of 65 per cent – are spent on public goods and projects.
engagement. Chris Bjerrisgaard, who aims to operate Small Gods Brewery in a commercial space on Third Street as part of the Oceanna residential
Habitat for Humanity is searching for bakers to contribute to this year›s theme, The Future of Home.
October 2021
MOVERS AND SHAKERS The Victoria Flying Club celebrates its 75th anniversary this year. Geoffrey Ewert, the Garth Homer Society’s new CEO, is looking forward to strengthening community links in order to advance the organization’s purpose of improving the lives of persons with developmental disabilities. The Sidney Business Improvement Area Society (Sidney BIA) has developed a guide to assist concerned downtown companies in Sidney in navigating vaccination proof requirements. Alexandra Bouchard, owner and founder of Saanich-based Kindred Apparel Inc., is excited by her supplier’s shift in perspective and business strategy in India. Kindred was the distributor for the company formerly known as Freeset, now called Joyye.
The Sooke Lions Club’s proposal to lease a piece of John Phillips Memorial Park in order to build a community center has passed the alternative approval procedure. Sidney council member Sarah Duncan expresses Leanne Kopp support for Small Gods Brewery, the city’s second brewery to operate on Third Street. Langford Gateway Development has applied for a rezoning and development permit to construct 22- and 18-story skyscrapers on land it acquired on Arncote Avenue, Peatt Road, and Sunderland Road. The two-phase project will contain retail space and a daycare.
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