Profiles langley

LANGLEY PROFILES OF

FALL 2013 EDITION

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“Excellence is an art won by training and habituation. We do not act rightly because we have virtue or excellence, but we rather have those because we have acted rightly. We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act but a habit.” — Aristotle Welcome to the inaugural edition of Profiles of Excellence, a very special publication of the Langley Advance.

The women and men profiled in these pages come from a wide variety of backgrounds, education, experience and expertise.

What they all share is what Aristotle describes in the quote above: a commitment to excellence – an attribute that is not born, but bred in training and repetition, in years of service to their profession and to their community. The awards these business leaders have earned are hallmarks of excellence, but the most important mark of excellence is the respect and loyalty of their customers.

As you will discover in these pages, Langley is a community steeped in excellence in a great many fields. We are very proud to present these Profiles of Excellence and look forward to many more editions in the years to come.

Ryan McAdams Publisher, Langley Advance

Fall 2013

Download the free Layar App & scan the left hand photo pages in this magazine to discover interactive content.

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Inside Wescraft Properties Ltd. ............................................ 5 REMAX Treeland Realty............................................. 7 Budd Orthodontics .................................................... 9 Cascades Casino Resort .......................................... 11 Tourism Langley ...................................................... 13 CPA International Investigations Inc. ..................... 15 HomeLife Benchmark............................................... 16 Magellan Law Group LLP . ...................................... 19 Valley First Aid ......................................................... 21 Langley Seniors Village .......................................... 23 Downtown Langley Business Association ............ 25 XARIS Construction . ............................................... 27 Martha D. Metzner Law Corp. . ............................... 29 Payless Glass ........................................................... 30 The Gateway of Hope . ............................................ 31 Editorial by: Ronda Payne Photography by: Troy Landreville, Nancy Teichgraf & Axel Gonzalez Front Cover Photo: @ramonawildeman Publisher: Ryan McAdams Sales Manager: Shannon Balla For inquiries regarding the next edition of Profiles of Excellence, please contact the Langley Advance at sballa@langleyadvance.com or by phone at 604 994 1030.

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Your Dream Home, Built with a Personal Touch uilding a new home or taking on B a major renovation is a massive project. Not only are there financial

considerations, but the disruption to normal routines, time spent making decisions, and finding the right people to do the job must also be weighed in the balance.

When you find the right people, the process can be easier – even enjoyable – because the right builder involves you every step of the way and ensures you have the information you need, when you need it.

Scott Foster, owner of Wescraft Properties Ltd. knows how important communication is in the process of home building and renovation. He makes sure everyone – homeowners, the Wescraft crew, and contracted trades – is “in the loop” at all stages of the process.

Because Wescraft is a nimble, experienced, local company, Scott deals with every customer directly. There is no concern of being treated “like a number”.

“We believe in one-on-one relationships with our clients,” Scott said. “I like to work really closely with our clients so that I get to know exactly what they need to make the process run smoothly for them. That’s our biggest goal – to make the project easy and enjoyable for the client.”

Scott grew up in Langley and has placed the focus of Wescraft firmly in his hometown. As a resident of the region with his wife and two sons, Scott has knowledge about building in the area that only comes from 20 plus years of local experience.

The Wescraft’s employees, most with Scott since the company began, are also residents of Langley so ensuring every project they work on is done well is a matter of pride.

When asked at what stage he can begin to provide value to a project, Scott replied, “Pretty much from the point someone has identified a property they want to buy.”

Scott’s first job was in construction and his interest both in the business and the process grew naturally. A house renovator long before it was stylish, helped Scott learn the importance of doing things right the first time.

That includes bringing the right people in at the right time - he has the expertise to look at a lot and work with architects and designers to deliver what homeowners are really after.

“This kind of project – one of this magnitude that involves a large part of, or an entire home – is something most people only do once, maybe twice, in a lifetime,” Scott said. “It’s a big deal to us, and our clients, that it’s done the right way - as envisioned.”

And while Scott may not be on the job site swinging a hammer these days, he’s found he loves the creativity and the satisfaction of taking a project from bare dirt to a beautiful home.

“Working on someone’s home is a different kind of construction,” Scott said. “It’s very personal and can be quite emotional. That is why communication is so important, and that’s why it’s key for Wescraft.”

PHOTO: Scott Foster, owner of Wescraft Properties Ltd.

“With Wescraft, clients know their new-build or home renovation project is as important to the builder as it is to the homeowner.”

Wescraft Properties Ltd. PO Box 16 Milner (Langley) BC V0X 1T0 604 220 0907 www.wescraft.ca

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Building Relationships through Real Estate eal estate is a competitive industry, R especially in a quickly growing community like Langley. Striving to

rank first can be a daunting challenge.

But to hit that pinnacle year after year?

Clearly, REMAX Treeland is doing something right.

The office of more than 80 Realtors has won the Langley Advance’s Best of the Best readers’ choice award 13 years in a row. Plus, this team has consistently ranked in the top spot in the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board’s measure of sales volume per person in offices of 81 or more Realtors.

“The top sales through the Fraser Valley Board is hard to win,” said Keith Setter, Realtor and REMAX Treeland manager. “It shows how hard this team works.”

The Realtors at REMAX Treeland have reached number one in many measures because they always put their customers first. They don’t just do what is required, they do whatever is best when it comes to looking out for, and looking after, their customers.

“We have a saying here.” “We don’t sell real estate, all we do is build relationships.”

A big part of building those relationships comes from work done outside the office. One client event treats customers to a free Christmas tree.

Early each December the team pulls together to turn the REMAX Treeland parking lot into a winter wonderland.

Snow is trucked in, tents are set up, hot chocolate is mixed and invitations are presented. Each invited client is welcome to come out and celebrate while picking out a free tree.

“It’s great. We get to see our clients at Christmastime. Some of them don’t PHOTO: Jade, Deidre & Kathy, Administrators.

even take a tree, they just want to come for the fun.”

You’ll also find this devoted crew at many Langley-based community events like Cruise-In, Canada Day, and Fort Langley Day where they supply tents, balloons and sometimes even tethered rides in the well-known REMAX hot air balloon.

The organization recently gave $16,200 to the Langley Lodge and also announced its involvement with the Langley School Board in sponsoring a breakfast program.

“A fixture in Langley for more than 25 years, REMAX Treeland ranks high because they put customers first.”

Community spirit has been part of the office since it became REMAX Treeland in 1988.

Even as the number of Realtors has grown over the years, certain aspects have remained the same – the focus on putting clients first, and stability.

With the same manager for 18 years and long-term front-end staff, everyone works together to stay focused on keeping the client’s experience top of mind.

Whether working with office colleagues or other Realtors in the community, staying professional and approachable in every interaction is something we see consistently in the group. We believe the REMAX Treeland Realtors have a different perspective when it comes to their clients.

“We anticipate problems and we solve them. We’re very proud of our ability to present facts and discuss the important information with all the detail to give our clients what they need to make the best decisions possible. We didn’t get to be one of the top real estate offices by having a few of us practice these principles. It’s everyone one of us, working together to keep our customer first.”

NOBODY IN THE WORLD SELLS MORE REAL ESTATE THAN RE/MAX.®

OUR IN-HOUSE MORTGAGE BROKERS HELP MAKE TO MAKE US BETTER!

Zack Silverman

Rosa-Anne DeMichina

Mortgage Consultant

Mortgage Consultant

REMAX Treeland Realty #101-6337 198th Street Langley BC V2Y 2E3 604 533 3491 Toll free 1 888 707 3577 www.remax-treeland.com 7

LANGLEY PROFILES OF

A smile that makes a difference r. Steven Budd of Budd D Orthodontics and his six staff members won’t stop when others might.

They keep working until your teeth and alignment are the best they can be.

They take your orthodontic challenges and turn them into a smile you never imagined.

“If I don’t think it’s right, I will continue working on the treatment,” Dr. Budd said. “It’s more important to me that I’ve done an excellent job. I don’t add surprise costs – the original quote includes my commitment that I work to deliver the best smile possible.”

Dr. Budd knows a thing or two about teeth. He practiced as a general dentist for eight years before returning to school to specialize in orthodontics.

“I wanted to focus my talents in one specific area,” he said.

After further education in orthodontics at the University of Toronto, Dr. Budd opened his practice in Langley in December of 2005.

“I love Langley,” Dr. Budd noted. “It’s a nice atmosphere here. It’s the perfect place to have a practice.”

It’s that relaxed Langley atmosphere that drew Dr. Budd to the community and to orthodontics. He noted that patients enjoy their visit to his office.

It’s a relaxed, fun environment. There isn’t any of the anxiety sometimes associated with a trip to the dentist.

“Who wants to go to work where people are afraid to come see you?” he asked. “Not me! The majority of my patients are young, between eight and 14, so it’s important that we joke around and have fun. When people aren’t afraid, it makes my job more relaxing and makes the whole experience more enjoyable for everyone.”

One of the things Dr. Budd loves about orthodontics is the fact that he doesn’t have to use a needle to do his job. In his explanation of how the practice works, Dr. Budd describes himself as a quarterback who gives plays to his team. His orthodontic assistants are fully trained to perform a wide variety of orthodontic procedures outlined by Dr. Budd. Orthodontics is exciting in this day and age, as there are several treatment choices such as invisible aligners and inside braces, which can work for some patients where traditional metal braces were not an option.

“When I see a patient for the first time, I tell them what the issues are and what I can do for them,” he noted. “No one ever died from crooked teeth, but you have your teeth, hopefully, for your entire life. It’s a wonderful feeling when my patients tell me they can’t believe how excited they are about their new smile.”

The experience at Dr. Budd’s is far from rushed. It’s relaxed and Dr. Budd prides himself on spending the extra time with a patient, their parents, or to answer questions.

“I need to do the best job I can for my patients,” he said. “I want the patient to be happy. I want everyone who sees me to know they got their money’s worth.”

Part of providing value comes from negotiating just one fee at the start.

There are no surprises part way through treatment with Dr. Budd.

“Even if the treatment takes longer than originally planned, it won’t cost more,” he said. “That’s my commitment to my patients and to what I do.”

PHOTO: Dr. Steven Budd, owner of Budd Orthodontics

“More than an orthodontist, Dr. Steven Budd ensures your smile is transformed into the best it can be.”

Budd Orthodontics 8590 – 200 Street, Langley, BC 604 882 9700 buddortho.com

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Full-on Entertainment in the Heart of Langley W

hy drive all the way to downtown Vancouver when everything is here, right in the heart of Langley?

Opened in 2005, Cascades Casino Resort offers fun, entertainment, and relaxation in their full-service facility.

For business or pleasure, Cascades is the ideal destination.

It begins with more than 70,000 square feet of gaming in an exciting 24-hour casino filled with more than 800 slots and a wide range of table games. A focus on enjoyment means the professionally trained casino staff is available to help you find your favourite form of fun.

There is even a semi-private eighttable poker room, said Tanya Gabara, Marketing Manager with Cascades.

“Every February we do the Women’s Poker Classic in support of the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation,” Gabara said. “Over eight years we’ve raised $250,000 dollars with women coming from all over North America.”

Other charitable organizations the Cascades team is proud to be part of include the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Langley Christmas Bureau, MS Society of Canada, Langley Food Bank Network, and many others.

“We offer all kinds of resources,” noted Gabara, “volunteers, donations, and event space. Contributing to our community is essential to what we do.”

For those looking for some of the best acts available, the 420 seat Summit Theatre will keep you entertained showing everything from local to international live acts in a variety of performances ranging from rock and roll to intimate dine and dance events.

It’s a great way to celebrate with a “blast from the past” or get to know

an upcoming star. Plus, this flexible space is available for private functions looking for a unique environment.

“We’re an entertainment centre,” noted Gabara “Our Glacier Bar & Lounge is the heart of the action. Try out the exciting new menu, great drink specials, and watch your favourite team in HD on our big screen.”

Other dining options to satisfy your cravings are the full-menu service and buffet in the Pinnacle Grille. Or order your signature drink and favourite treat from Starbucks in the hotel lobby.

The recently renovated 26,000 square foot convention space accommodates the most intimate meeting to a gala event for 1,000, complete with personalized service catered to individual needs.

“We really cater our service to the client,” Gabara noted. “Weddings, charitable functions or business events, we make sure the client gets what they want.”

Slow things down in Spa Pure, an inviting, luxury spa, without the luxury price. Spa Pure believes having a relaxing spa experience shouldn’t be exclusive, just personal.

Or, take the time to enjoy the comfort and privacy in one of the newly updated hotel rooms just footsteps away from the fun. All of the 77 rooms include Wi-Fi, free parking, and free continental breakfast. The hotel also offers pet-friendly accommodations for Fido’s comfort as well.

“We’re more than just a casino or a hotel,” said Gabara. “This is a central source for entertainment and relaxation. Our more than 500 staff take great pride in ensuring your experience is outstanding.”

PHOTO: Cascades Casino Resort staff welcomes guests to the hotel.

“Cascades Casino Resort provides an outstanding experience for weddings, game day fun, business conferences and more.

It’s all here.”

Cascades Casino Resort 20393 Fraser Highway Langley, BC 604 530 2211 www.cascadescasino.ca

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Taking Langley to the World a hard job, summarizing all that Itot’sLangley has to offer and presenting it the world, but it’s one that Deborah

Kulchiski, Executive Director with Tourism Langley, said the organization is proud to do.

“Tourism in itself is often hard to define as it really is the collection of services, activities and other sectors that are provided for the visitors,” Deborah said. “It includes accommodation, transportation, food and beverage services, recreation and entertainment and travel services, so to summarize what Tourism Langley does in one sentence is extremely difficult”.

The role of Tourism Langley is to increase the amount of local business from visitors – though visitors may come from near, or far. Because Tourism Langley’s work is seen in other areas, the local community may not know they are working to increase visits, and encourage both overnight and extended stays within Langley.

“We build our marketing strategies on our brand and positioning statement Endless Choices to deliver our offerings to those outside our communities and invite them to come in,” she noted. “It all results in increased expenditures and increased revenues for our communities.”

The Tourism Langley team is also responsible for the operations of the Langley Visitor Centre. This role is primarily in cooperation with the province and municipalities mandate to provide visitors with tourist information, assistance and advice although as Deborah explains, that role has significantly changed and is no longer about making reservations, handing out maps and recommending attractions and activities.

“Today’s traveler is far savvier and better informed than they were years ago,” she commented. “Everyone does their research online, has made the

essential reservations, likely has an itinerary and knows what they want to see and do. They may be coming in just to confirm directions or add one more stop to their itinerary, or get advice to validate their anticipated experience.

We’re also seeing a need for more mobile accessible sites and apps. There is a constant need to be innovative in the visitor economy and to provide a seamless exchange of information electronically. People are looking for new experiences and they want to share those experiences. It’s not about should we look to social media, it is about how to do it in the most effective and profitable way.”

Tourism Langley also facilitates relationships with neighbouring communities like Abbotsford, Vancouver, and even Washington State.

While the borders of Langley are far reaching (Aldergrove to Cloverdale, Walnut Grove to the US border), building relationships with those neighbours helps establish longer stays that may include Langley.

Adjusting to local issues that may be challenging to travelers may periodically become relevant, but the Tourism Langley team must also stay on top of global issues.

“If the economy drops in a region we’ve been marketing to, that’s going to change our focus,” she said. “The industry is always changing and evolving. We must adjust to visitor trends and those issues that have an impact on the decisions people make.”

In the last five years, Tourism Langley has grown from scratch to significant achievements that include recognition by their peers and Destination BC in 2012 with the BC DMO Professional Excellence Award, as well as acquiring international accreditation – joining only four other cities in B.C. at the time with this high level of standards.

PHOTO: Deborah Kulchiski, Executive Director of Tourism Langley (Right) Christina Mynen, Visitor Services Coordinator

“Working as an advocate to represent all that Langley has to offer, Tourism Langley has met the challenge for five years and going strong.”

Tourism Langley 7888 200 St Langley, BC 604 888 1477 tourism-langley.ca

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Answers with Integrity both business and personal affairs, Ihelpnsituations can arise that require with complicated, uncomfortable

issues involving people or property.

Additionally, you may need security devices to deliver peace of mind and protection.

CPA International Investigations Inc. is a licensed Private Investigation and Security Agency. Their team has been providing professional and discreet private investigative, security, risk assessments and surveillance services for over two decades.

With more than 40 years combined experience, co-owners, John Pisarski and Heather Giuriato bring their expertise in security solutions and investigations to help their clients.

Heather spent more than 10 years in the security solutions industry before joining John at CPA in 2007. She believes in spending the necessary time to review each assignment or assessment to fully understand the unique needs of their clients.

CPA offers your basic ‘at home’ security system, to larger corporate closed circuit TV systems. They will provide security assessment for their clients to determine your best options.

“We want our clients to have exactly what they need.” said Heather.

Whether clients prefer to self-monitor their system or take advantage of CPA’s monitoring service, numerous options exist.

“Depending on the equipment they need, clients can monitor their system through their smart phone or other electronics,” John explained. “If a situation should arise, they can take action or our security monitoring team will respond on their behalf.”

CPA stands behind all of the equipment they offer. “We are not sales people, we are security consultants and we do not sell anything that does not meet the client’s needs,” Heather added.

Investigations are where John’s background comes into play with over 25 years of experience. Having more than 13,000 cases behind him, ranging from criminal and civil investigations, accident reconstruction and missing persons to name a few, gives him the expertise to lead their team.

“We locate people, look into insurance fraud, examine internal theft, research and investigate whatever a person may need looked into,” John said. “Our job is to provide answers. We specialize in meticulous and intricate investigations.”

Both John and Heather stressed that the reason they pursued a career in the investigations and security industry was because they care about what they do and the clients behind the job.

“Customer service is our number one priority,” Heather said. “Really, that’s all we do, is take care of our customers.

That’s our job.”

The job isn’t easy and can certainly take its toll. Canadian privacy laws make investigations challenging, but John and Heather are committed to getting the job done while respecting the laws and retaining clients’ privacy. This challenge seems to be what fuels the team at CPA to keep doing what they do so well.

“I love what I do,” John said. “We have to be creative and persistent as we find ways to uncover the information.”

In the end, Heather described what CPA does in terms of investigations is simply a process of obtaining unbiased information for our clients.

“We are fact gatherers,” John confirmed.

Peace of mind comes in a variety of ways. If it’s through setting up a home or office security system, or beginning an investigation to uncover answers, CPA International Investigations will be able to help.

PHOTO: CPA International Investigations managing directors John Pisarski and Heather Giuriato.

“Professional security solutions and investigations with the utmost confidentiality.”

CPA International Investigations Inc. 20330 Fraser Highway Langley, BC 604 838 6600 cpaiii.com

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Real Estate with Real Heart ack in 1983 a group of Realtors B saw a niche waiting to be filled in the Langley real estate market. That

realization led to what is now HomeLife Benchmark Realty.

With two offices – one in Willowbrook, one in Walnut Grove – and a Kiosk in Willowbrook shopping centre, the original values of being a solid community partner, providing the best training for new Realtors, and bringing the best Realtors to the team, are still at the heart of this organization.

“We knew there was a wave of Realtors coming in at that time that could do great things,” said Michael Dreyer, Managing Broker of HomeLife Benchmark. “I vowed that if I ever had the opportunity to manage others, I would ensure they got adequate training to succeed. We still operate on those principles today.”

The other factor that keeps HomeLife Benchmark ahead of the curve are the five pillars of customer service inherent in all HomeLife offices.

“Any Realtor can deliver five levels of service, but our clients always come first,” Michael said. “That means we meet with people, take our time and look after them, and ensure they know they come first.”

With 105 Realtors based out of the two offices, Michael feels a unique aspect of the organization is their well-rounded, supportive nature.

“There are no egos here,” he said. “We are hired to do a job. That’s to purchase and sell your clients properties, and the best compliment we can pay you is to get the job done. That’s one of the reasons we have the Kiosk. There is no other firm in Langley that can deliver exposure to properties like we can.”

The HomeLife Benchmark team is able to handle all facets of real estate. They can take care of residential commercial, industrial, and business transactions and even offer a property management division. Michael thinks of it as a onestop location with access to mortgage brokers, moving companies, home

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inspectors, and more from within the team.

HomeLife Benchmark has made it a priority to be as green as possible while also using technology to make the client’s involvement in transactions as seamless as possible.

“We are getting greener all the time,” he said. “All of our transactions are paperless. Our clients can track their transactions through our document management system so they always know what the status is.”

While staying green may mean going paperless, growing means staying in touch with the community – something that is of high value to everyone at HomeLife Benchmark.

“We are involved in fundraisers and donate to different programs,” Michael said. “We believe in helping our community. We participate annually with community events and support our local Langley schools through scholarships programs and donations , including the Ishtar Transition House, Bras for a Cause, and a number of other great groups.”

The Easter colouring contest is another fun way HomeLife Benchmark likes to stay involved and give back. Every child who enters receives a letter and a participation ribbon. There were more than 400 entries last year alone.

“Of course there’s the annual charity golf tournament with proceeds going to Canuck Place,” noted Michael. “It has raised over $340,000 over 15 years.”

HomeLife Benchmark takes pride in knowing the community and caring for it while they care for their clients.

“Choosing a realtor is about more than finding someone to buy and sell a house, it’s about creating a relationship for one of the biggest transactions of your life.”

HomeLife Benchmark Langley 6323 - 197 Street, Langley BC 604 530 4141 www.homelifelangley.com

HomeLife Benchmark Walnut Grove 201 - 20999 88th Ave., Langley BC 604 888 7424 www.homelifewalnutgrove.com

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A focus on law with a passion for customer service agellan Law Group LLP is M focused on client relationships, not billable hours. The idea to create

a client-centered law firm came when the partners recognized their common desire to satisfy and service clients while doing the best job possible.

As a full-service law firm, Magellan offers a diverse range of skills and expertise. From commercial needs to litigation (court work) and everything in between, the team works together in a holistic fashion, to ensure clients have the support and knowledge they need to make educated choices and more forward.

“The three of us have good synergy,” said Steve Fruitman of fellow partners Duncan Magnus and Don G. Burrell.

“We created Magellan because we knew we could meet our clients’ needs better through our own firm. We have the talent and the skills to ensure every client gets what they need.” With more than 50 years’ combined experience and a commitment to professional development, these are lawyers who know the law and care about people.

There are no egos at Magellan.

Everything comes down to delivering the best experience to the client. “Some firms are built on a structure that leads to fighting over clients,” Fruitman said. “That’s not best for the client. We structured our firm so that we all play an equal part in servicing clients the best way possible.”

This philosophy runs throughout the team from partners and lawyers to support staff, including the IT department. If IT sounds like an after-thought for a law firm, you’ll be surprised by Magellan’s approach.

“We do everything we can to make the client experience better. Efficiency and accessibility are part of how we do

business.” Duncan said. “Sometimes that comes down to the little things like having secure Wi-Fi in the office or dual screens on staff desks.

“We try to resolve disputes and problems for people,” Duncan said.

“We want to help our clients sleep better at night. We offer advice about what can happen in certain situations, and if clients come to us with problems or issues, we work to resolve the issues, and we advocate on behalf of clients to try to prevent problems from arising.”

“The partners at Magellan Law Group LLP came together because of their common commitment to their clients.”

If a client’s needs fall outside the expertise of the firm, Magellan is ready to recommend the best professional for the job. While that might seem unusual, you may be surprised to learn that the partners at Magellan also meet with clients wherever is convenient.

“We do what needs to be done,” said Don. “We build relationships. It’s not about billable hours. Sometimes that means spending time with clients on a more personal level.”

Steve, Don and Duncan all live in the region and know Langley is where they want to be for the long-term.

“We want our kids and families to grow up here,” Duncan noted.

There is a theme of giving back to the community that naturally flows out of the firm’s principle of putting the client first. From serving on numerous boards of charitable organizations to taking part in activities for Langley Big Brothers and Big Sisters as well as raising more than $70,000 for the BC Lung Association over five years, the team at Magellan knows what it means to be part of Langley.

Magellan Law Group LLP #225 - 20316 56th Avenue Langley, BC 778 726 0175 magellanlaw.ca

Let the innovative approach of Magellan Law Group help you make informed decisions that will get you the most desired results.

PHOTO: Lawyers Don G. Burrell, Duncan Magnus, and Steve Fruitman.

(Right) The partners at Magellan Law meet in the boardroom with lawyers Niki Randhawa (left) and Karen Fruitman (right).

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WorkSafeBC Accredited First Aid Training I

n the course of her 16 year career training students/employees through other first aid training agencies, Monique Barnett recognized the need for a first aid training facility that not only focused on the success of the student, but also the end user – the patient. When the opportunity emerged to buy her own training agency, this entrepreneur took it.

“I bought Valley First Aid in March 2012, but the business has been serving the community since 1984,” Monique said.

Because Langley is her home, Monique and her team of highly qualified instructors work hard supporting the community by providing free volunteer first aid onsite at events like: Special Olympics BC, Habitat for Humanity, The Terry Fox Run, Lions Club, Big Brothers Big Sisters and others, for a total of 23 events last summer.

“It was all summer long,” Monique said. “We had a great time and we loved getting out in the community.”

Highly recommended by their students, the approach at Valley First Aid is different than that of the other facilities.

“Student testimonials highly recommend Valley First Aid for our commitment to students, a terrific training facility, patience, support, value added benefits, and knowledgeable, experienced instructors,” said Monique.

“We’re very focused on quality training here,” she noted. “If a trainer skimps on quality, it’s ultimately the patient who suffers. In a business setting, that can lead to longer recovery times for employees that can affect the bottom line. It’s more cost-effective to find the best training possible for on-staff first aid attendants.”

A fully accredited and authorized training agency for WorkSafeBC and

the Canadian Red Cross, Valley First Aid teaches a wide range of popular programs including: • Occupational First Aid levels 1, 2, and 3 • Red Cross Emergency and Standard First Aid • Red Cross CPR / HCP • Emergency Child Care • First Responder (FR) • Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) • Paramedics in Industry, as well as the most popular safety courses.

Valley First Aid is the only authorized WorkSafeBC training provider in the Lower Mainland accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB). That speaks volumes to the facility’s integrity and good business practices.

“Valley First Aid delivers quality, service, and value through approved programs with decades of experience and expertise.”

“We monitor our instructor team on a regular basis to make sure they are correctly teaching the WorkSafeBC and Canadian Red Cross curriculums as required,” Monique said.

Many of the Valley First Aid instructors are expert trainers. Monique, for instance, coauthored the Workplace Emergency First Aid Manual for The Canadian Red Cross’ Provincial Program which is the WorkSafeBC Occupational Level 1 First Aid equivalency course.

“Our main training facility is located in Langley but, I wanted to make high quality first aid training more accessible, so I’ve expanded our school into multiple locations,” said Monique. “We are also a mobile company and have mobile instructors that can come to your facility so long as it meets with regulations.”

101-20540 Duncan Way Langley BC 604 533 1993 www.valleyfirstaidtraining.ca

Valley First Aid is ready to assist you in being WorkSafeBC compliant. When quality, service and value matter, choose Valley First Aid.

PHOTO: Monique Barnett, Owner/ Instructor, Valley First Aid (Right) Monique Barnett , Rick Barnett, Customer Experience Director, Valley First Aid

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Langley Seniors Village is a New Beginning W

hen you, or someone you love, have to make the decision to move into a retirement residence, there can be a lot of uncertainty. It’s hard to know where the best fit is.

At Langley Seniors Village, owned and operated by Retirement Concepts, you’ll always find the right fit, because staff cares about making every resident feel at home. By asking about hobbies, favourite activities and ensuring the environment is fun and multi-generational, this residence keeps residents active and feeling like they are in the perfect environment.

“We ask everyone who is considering living here what they like to do, or even what they used to do, but aren’t doing now,” said Jamie Sinclair, Marketing and Community Relations Consultant with Langley Seniors Village. “We will find a way to get them into doing what they love most.”

Each private-pay or publicly subsidized rental suite is self-contained with 24hour Emergency Response system. Plus, all suites offer a kitchenette with sink and bar fridge as well as fully accessible bathrooms with showers to enable confident, independent living.

“It’s comfortable living in an apartmentstyle suite, with the assurance of assistance whenever it’s needed,” Jamie noted. “Plus each of our residents is offered an ‘on-person’ emergency call pendant for added peace of mind.”

A wide range of additional services can be arranged for each resident. From morning assistance to prepare for the day and/or help with medications, with weekly housekeeping, a variety of activities and a village-specific bus, every need is taken care of. Local shopping, the library, banking, and restaurants are just a short distance away.

“Food is very important here,” Jamie noted. “Everyone likes tasty meals and Michael [Traquair – General Manager] has worked as a Red Seal chef, so he is very conscious of ensuring delicious meals that are healthy.”

So much more than just a retirement village with suites and a dining room, Langley Seniors Village also offers a fullservice hair salon, general store, library with internet access, a theatre room, and plenty of activities.

“No matter the age, everyone wants to live where they feel most at home – enjoy the fun and freedom at Langley Seniors Village.”

“Yes, we offer bingo,” Jamie said. (laughed) . “But, we also have a private dining room so residents can host a party with family and friends, we do comedy nights, and have a full calendar of recreational and entertainment activities from playing bridge to tai chi, noodle hockey to dancing. Michael and I, and the rest of the team love to bring our kids here for the activities because it’s a family environment.”

Langley Seniors Village also offers temporary respite care.

“We have two fully-furnished guest suites,” said Jamie. “And all the people in place to ensure someone who has been discharged from the hospital is well taken care of if they need support before going back home.”

The suites can be booked short-term, and whether used by residents’ guests or someone seeking respite care, everything needed is included in the suite.

“We want our residents to feel independent and supported. We’re here to facilitate the life and dreams they want.” Jamie noted. “Having just celebrated our sixth anniversary and seeing how delighted our residents are, I think we’re getting things right.”

Langley Seniors Village Retirement Home 20363 65 Ave, Langley, BC 604 539 9934 retirementconcepts.com

PHOTO: Jamie Sinclair, Marketing and Community Relations Consultant at Langley Seniors Village with resident Jack Durston.

(Right) Jamie Sinclair with resident Alice Decoux.

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In the Business of Downtown Langley owntown Langley is made up of an D eclectic mix of businesses with their only common tie being location – good thing they have the Downtown Langley Business Association (DLBA) behind them.

Formed in late 1994, the organization was created by the City of Langley’s mayor and council through a bylaw to ensure the downtown had a unified voice. Because every business is an individual entity, there isn’t the overriding messaging of a mall or shopping centre without the DLBA. The downtown is a mix of restaurants, eateries, and food related shops; industrial and automotive; retail; and service professionals. Creating a unified message for such diversity is a challenge, but DLBA Executive Director, Teri James, credits the organization’s board of directors for their ability to look beyond their own business needs to focus on the 620 businesses packed into one square mile.

“I’m extremely fortunate to work with a very progressive board of directors.

They represent every sector within the region,” Teri said. “They are committed to the greater good of the BIA and look at the needs of the region and all walks of life, it’s amazing that they can put their businesses aside when we meet once a month and create plans of action for the entire area.”

These dedicated business owners have been a constant with the DLBA. No matter who takes a two or four year position on the board, their devotion to the organization’s purpose has been the same. Teri knows each individual’s presence lends added credibility to the DLBA because of their commitment.

The mandate of the DLBA is to work with businesses in the region to create

opportunities. This includes shared events, a DLBA website, publications, promotions and activities to bring attention, awareness and people to the downtown core. Because of this synergistic approach, each business gets a huge bang for their buck.

“One of our most popular programs has been the façade improvement program,” noted Teri. “Whether it’s an exterior façade improvement or the cleaning of an awning or sign, the DLBA covers half of the expense.”

The organization also works as a liaison with the City to ensure improvements to the region are on the “to do” list and that the downtown businesses are kept top of mind with the mayor, council, and City staff. The most recent project advocated by the DLBA is the McBurney Lane refurbishing. With seating, opportunity for performances, and natural spaces for gathering, the central location benefits downtown businesses by drawing more individuals into the area for longer periods of time.

“It’s about creating awareness and a destination,” Teri added. “Concepts like our Christmas promotion hit a broader range of people more affordably than each business could reach on their own.

It’s really a win-win.”

Still as passionate about the DLBA as she was when she took the position 13 years ago, Teri sees people coming back again and again to shop and explore.

“You’ll see hanging baskets outside, unique businesses, and most important is that these are business people who provide exceptional customer service because of the nature of their business and the area. It’s really got a vibe you can’t find anywhere else.”

“The Downtown Langley Business Association has been creating a unified hub for Langley for nearly 20 years.”

Teri James and Bob Foster stroll McBurney Lane

Downtown Langley Business Association 20559 Fraser Hwy Langley, BC 604 539 0133 downtownlangley.com

PHOTO: DLBA Board of Directors Back: Bob Foster, Krazy Bob’s Music Emporium. Top center left to right: Ross Pearson, Accomplished Learning Centre; Heather Jenkins, 1 Fish 2 Fish Fresh Seafood Market; Sonya Perkins, Forever Yours Lingerie and {LUCY} Clothing & Accessories; Carrie Thachuk, The Passionate Home. Lower Centre left to right: Erin Causton, Choo Choos Restaurant; Carole Ward, Westminster Savings Front: Teri James, Executive Director. Missing from photo: Karla Barton, McBurney Junction Furniture and Interiors; Craig McDougall, Frosting Cupcakery and Bake Shop; Doedy Reisler, Cascades Casino, Hotel and Convention Centre; Nav Dardi, Panago Pizza.

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A Synergistic Partnership with Integrity X

ARIS Construction may be a relatively new name to those in Langley, having just formed in May, but the principals of the firm are anything but new with their combined experience of approximately 60 years in commercial construction.

Friends, and Langley residents, Mark Van Ek, Albert Malowany, and Kevin Speilman, recognized they each possessed a special skill set they could offer clients looking for high-quality, well managed commercial developments.

From his former company, Venture Pacific Construction Management Limited, Mark brought construction management expertise, while Albert and Kevin delivered general contracting services from their former firm Cassian Contracting Ltd. “We saw the synergies in what each of us could bring to the table for our clients,” Mark said. “Because of this, we are able to offer a full range of commercial construction services, from a consultingstyle involvement – before plans are even drawn up, all the way through to completion, and tenant improvements on virtually any size or type of commercial project.”

With his background in municipal recreational developments, Mark has seen a complex variety of building structures and materials. This combined with the detailed full-scale work Albert and Kevin experienced made the new firm the ideal company for the new Coulter Berry Building in historic Fort Langley. Coulter Berry is a three story mixed-use building with retail units at ground level, office space on the 2nd floor, 10 residences on the 3rd floor, a signature two-level restaurant with a rooftop patio, and an underground parkade, Geothermal, heat recovery, CO2 monitoring, and lots more unique and well thought out features.

Coulter Berry will be a LEED Gold certified building, one of only a handful of LEED Gold mixed-use commercial buildings in all of BC. Coulter Berry epitomizes outstanding urban design: a mixture of uses, retail at the sidewalk, and cars out of sight.The LEED standard demands rigid criteria for environmentally sound building construction and operation. XARIS is at the forefront of using the techniques and practices to make LEED projects a growing part of the future.

“The Coulter Berry Building will be a beautiful building,” Mark said. ““It’s a project that sets a new benchmark for developments in Langley, and indeed anywhere.”

“The owners of XARIS Construction bring diverse points of view and experience to B.C. based commercial projects.”

In addition to Coulter Berry, XARIS has projects throughout the Lower Mainland and BC. These include major renovations to an elementary school, work for major grocery chains, restaurants, and other commercial projects. Many projects are repeat engagements with the same clients, which is a testament to XARIS’ partners commitment to serving the needs of their clients and not just building brick and mortar, but building long term relationships.

Mark added that one of the biggest benefits XARIS offers is their personal approach and transparency. He’s proud that the three partners have a common approach to business and working with integrity, plus their relatively small size gives them the ability to personally engage on every project.

XARIS Construction Unit 1, 9228 Glover Road Langley, BC 604 343 2997 www.xaris.ca

“We develop long term relationships with our clients,” Mark said. “It’s necessary to build that trust quickly to get a sense of where everyone is coming from.

Everything we do is visible to the client and our work is always in the client’s best interests.”

PHOTO: Mark Van Ek, Albert Malowany, Kevin Speilman, owners XARIS Construction

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Family Law in Everyday Language artha Metzner knows family law, M not just because she is a barrister and solicitor, but because she was once

“on the other side of the desk” dealing with her own divorce. She used her passion for learning in her favour, winning her case in the Supreme Court of Canada and making legal history for success in self-representation.

Martha funneled that determination into law school, was called to the bar in 2004, and now works to empower others to move forward, past their own family law cases to become stronger on the other side.

“It’s quite a story,” Martha said of her journey. “And because of it, I know how frustrating it can be to not understand the fees, processes, and length of time things can take.”

“I’m a user-friendly lawyer,” she noted.

“Terri (Romegioli, her legal assistant with more than 30 years experience) and I are the only people in the office, so you know who is managing your file.”

Martha didn’t pursue her law career until it became obvious it was meant to be. She had sold real estate and was a stay-at-home mom with three children until her difficult divorce proceedings began.

“It ran for seven weeks, which, in 1993, was pretty long,” Martha said. “I saw the process, I began to understand how it worked and when it was apparent I was running out of money, I ended up acting on my own.”

Before she’d ever gone to law school, Martha was defending her case in the Supreme Court of Canada. She was successful. Through dogmatic determination, a desire to understand the law and the new statute, and a need to put the ordeal behind her,

Martha represented herself better than imagined. She had read and interpreted the Child Support Guidelines. She had also met with those who drafted the regulations in order to ensure she thoroughly understood the principles on which they were founded.

At age 50, she went to law school.

“I didn’t understand the technology,” she admitted. “Learning about email, typing and the internet, I had to teach myself.”

In time she set up her own practice and began helping clients have a say as to how their personal conflicts were resolved. Martha encourages many clients to do some of the work on their own – whether to save money or simply because they will benefit from the experience.

“I love to encourage people to take on their own cases,” she said. “I call it ‘unbundelling’ of legal services. I can work as a consultant, or I can do all the work for them. It’s really up to the individual and their constraints.”

“I want to see people get things in place to allow them to rise to their potential,” she noted. “Coming to see me should be more like going to the hairdresser and less like going to the dentist because it is a positive step forward, a move towards your best life possible.”

She also encourages straight, practical talk, and none of the “legaleze” common in family law proceedings these days.

“Court should be a last resort, so I need to make sure everyone understands what is being said,” Martha noted. “The first and foremost goal is to resolve the issues as quickly and easily as possible.”

PHOTO: Martha Metzner of Martha D. Metzner Law Corporation.

“Martha Metzner uses her personal experience and fondness for practicality to make family law accessible.”

Martha D. Metzner Law Corp.

604 533 7705 www.metznerlaw.ca

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Professional Work, Family Values he Halvorsons, and their business T – Payless Glass, are proof that small and local mean professional,

personalized glass work. Working in the core of downtown Langley, this husband and wife team takes pride in getting to know their customers as people – not numbers.

“I love that we have so many repeat customers,” said Irene, who takes care of business operations. “Some are the grandchildren of our early customers.”

Kalvin is very hands-on, having started with Payless Glass fresh out of high school and learning the business for nearly two decades before purchasing it ten years ago.

“There is a lot of experience here,” he noted.

The Halvorsons and two employees run Payless Glass, which specializes in auto and residential glass needs.

“We are ICBC approved,” Kalvin noted. “So we offer Glass Express.

It’s a one-stop, no-hassle way to get your auto glass done. We take care of everything, from dealing with ICBC, to the paperwork and the installation.”

At Payless Glass, every job is focused on being personal and comfortable.

Special extras like a client pick-up and drop-off service make the process convenient.

“We do big trucks, buses, fleets, cars, you name it,” Kalvin said. “And, we’re going to give you the bare, honest truth about what needs to be done.”

Kalvin never wants a customer to have to come back with a problem.

“We use the best materials available,” he said. “The job is always done right.

We don’t believe in saving a dollar or two only to have a problem later.”

“We offer a great product at a fair price by people you get to know and trust,” summarized Irene. “It’s the only way we know how to do business.”

“Experience and the bare truth make Payless Glass the best in auto and residential glass.”

Payless Glass 5965 200 Street Langley, BC V3A 1N2 604 533 4554 www.paylessglass.ca mailto:paylessglass@telus.net

PHOTO: Kalvin Halvorson stands in front of Payless Glass, one of the largest and oldest independent glass shops in Langley.

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Providing Hope because Everyone has Value veryone needs help at one time or E another. Sometimes the help needed is extensive and this is where the team

at The Gateway of Hope comes in.

A Salvation Army operation, Gateway is led by the executive team of: Troy Gaglardi, Director of Operations; Reg Burks, Director of Skills Training; Les McAusland, Emergency Shelter and Opportunities Program Manager; and Michelle Puffer, Business Manager.

“We believe people have intrinsic value, no matter their status in life.” Michelle said. This is just one of the reasons the group does what they do.

The 32 person capacity emergency shelter on the ground floor of the 31,000 square foot building is always full, while the 25 person Opportunities Program runs at about 85 per cent full. There is a need for the services at The Gateway of Hope, and the people using them may not be who you would suspect.

“They could be well educated, have mental health issues, be seniors, have long-term needs—it could be the average Joe, it could even be momentary,” advised Troy. “It really could be any of us.”

“Someone you’d never expect to see come through here, like a former high-income earner, may need help,” Michelle added.

The goal of the programs at The Gateway of Hope is to move people from their current state to a more productive, fulfilling life. This is why the Opportunities Program provides training, a place to stay, and a goaloriented life-focus; the community meal program brings all walks of life together to share stories and community over

a meal; training courses provide much needed skills to members of the community in addition to guests at the Gateway of Hope.

“It’s an inclusive environment,” Troy noted. “That’s what we want to nurture here. Inclusivity builds community and normalcy and that will help people take the next step forward.”

PHOTO: Les McAusland, Troy Gaglardi, Michelle Puffer. Missing from photo: Reg Burks.

“Driven by a common set of beliefs, the executive team at The Gateway of Hope stays focused on people.”

The Gateway of Hope 5787 Langley Bypass Langley, BC 604 514 7375 www.gatewayofhope.ca

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