Business Examiner Peace Cariboo Skeena - September 2016 by Business Examiner Media Group

SEPTEMBER 2016

» MEETING PLACES

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PRINCE RUPERT Historic Structure Proves Popular With

Tax Strategies for Business

Visitors

Peace Cariboo Skeena WWW.BUSINESSEXAMINER.CA

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Now in Terrace

City Hall & Business: Partners In The City’s Future

Scottish Visionary

City Of Terrace’s Downtown Revitalization Plan Underway

Leaves a Legacy With

BY DAVID HOLMES

a View

PRINCE RUPERT

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INDEX News Update 2 Prince George 4 Movers and Shakers 11 Quesnel 13 Opinion 14 Smithers 15 Sales 15 Contact us: 1-866-758-2684

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ERR ACE – In Northern Br it ish Colu mbia t hey know how to get things done. If something isn’t right, or if something needs doing, the favoured approach is for the community to pull together, roll up its collective sleeves, and take care of the problem. The downtown revitalization effort underway in Terrace is yet another example of this proven policy in action. “In about 2006 there was a small ad hoc group of downtown merchants who were concerned that the downtown area was struggling and needed some help,” explained David Block, the City of Terrace’s Director of Development Services. “The city council of the day undertook a downtown planning process in 2007 / 2008 that SEE TERRACE | PAGE 6

The long range goal is to attract more visitors and shoppers into the downtown, such as at this Farmer’s Market

Northern BC Tourism Association Connects Travelers with “Real Wilderness” in Rapidly Changing Times As Technology Redefines Consumer Behaviours, The Prince George Based Destination Marketing Organization Is Redefining Tourism In The North

RINCE GEORGE—In the summer of 2016 a special backpack made the rounds of northern BC’s most pristine natural settings. Although many an adventurer has carried many a pack into these environments, this particular one had a special pedigree: it belongs to Google. “We have been trekking destinations around northern BC all summer and we are excited

that these destinations will provide users with virtual access via Google Maps to some of our most wild places and best experiences,” explains Clint Fraser, CEO of Northern BC Tourism Association (NBCTA). Fraser’s Prince George based Destination Marketing Organization finalized their deal with one of the world’s largest and most disruptive companies back in the

fall of 2015. It was part of Google’s expansion of its “Streetview” project to include locations that can only be reached by foot. In fact, Northern BC was one of the world’s first destinations to host the “Google Trekker”, the camera backpack that records 360-degree views of the environments it is carried into. NBCTA secured the backpack for three months in partnership

with Destination BC, the province’s tourism-promoting Crown corporation. The initiative says a lot about NBCTA’s core intention: to creatively market its region’s tourism opportunities in a rapidly changing world. If the Google Trekker project is any indication, Fraser and his team are SEE TOURISM | PAGE 13

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NEWS UPDATE

DAWSON CREEK Feds + Province Make Major Investment in Northern Lights College The federal government and province of BC have collaborated together on a $33.02million investment at Northern Lights College (NLC) that will provide opportunities for a new stateoftheart learning facility. The funding was announced by Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and Mike Bernier, BC Minister of Education and MLA for Peace River South, on behalf of Andrew Wilkinson, BC Minister of Advanced Education. The Government of Canada’s Innovation Agenda aims to make the country a global centre for innovation—one that creates jobs, drives growth across all industries and improves the lives of all Canadians. This investment exemplifies that vision in action and will help create the wellpaying middleclass jobs of tomorrow. The funding will enable NLC to build a new training centre for its skilled trades programs. The new building will replace the World War IIera structure currently in use. The Government of Canada is contributing $14.57 million and the Province of British Columbia is providing $15.06 million toward the $33.02million cost of this project. NLC and private partners will contribute an additional $3.39 million. Private partners contributing to the new Northern Lights College trades building at Dawson Creek include Canbriam Energy Inc., Encana Services Company, Shell Canada and TransCanada PipeLines. The project will support Indigenous learners as they prepare for careers in the skilled trades. It will also increase apprenticeship

enrolment, address barriers that prevent student success and improve completion rates for Indigenous learners. Construction is expected to get under way in summer 2016, with occupancy in early 2018. The project itself will create 133 direct and 102 indirect jobs during development. Nearly one million job openings are expected in BC by 2025 due to retirements and economic development, and nearly eight out of ten of those openings will require postsecondary education and/or skilled trades training.

PRINCE RUPERT Rupert Port Begins Work on New Complex The Port of Prince Rupert has announced a $16 million dollar investment in a new maintenance and warehouse complex, with construction scheduled to begin in midSeptember. The facility will be located at the intersection of Scott Road and Highway 16. Expansion of Fairview Container Terminal created a need to relocate the Port’s maintenance building, as DP World acquired the Port’s current facility as part of the terminal expansion. The new complex will be comprised of two buildings; the first housing the maintenance facility, and the second providing storage and warehouse space. The contract for the design and construction of the facility has been awarded to Coast Tsimshian Northern Contractors Alliance (CTNCA) in partnership with IDL Projects. Site clearing is scheduled to commence the week of September 6, 2016. Throughout the duration of the project minimal impact to the public is anticipated. However, during the first stage of the project

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as site clearing and removal begins, scheduled blasting will interrupt road access to Scott Road and Highway 16 for approximately fifteen minutes per day during a month-long period beginning in late-October. Once the blasting schedule is finalized, it will be made available to the public via the Port’s website and social media channels. The project is scheduled to be complete in September, 2017. Any questions or concerns about the ongoing construction at the maintenance facility can be directed to the POPR’s public comment line by calling 250 627-5621. For residents interested in regular updates by email or SMS text message, visit ruperport. com/subscribe or text the word “maintenance” to 778 654-8400.

FORT ST. JOHN St. John Ambulance Develops New Partnership St. John Ambulance (SJA) and Alpha Training Solutions (ATS) have announced a new partnership in Fort St. John, in order to broaden their reach in delivering first aid and safety training to Northeastern British Columbia. As of September 1, 2016, ATS will be taking over the SJA facility at 10066 Tundra Street. Under the partner-provider agreement, ATS will be delivering SJA training in addition to its existing roster of industrial and outdoor courses from other providers. “It had become apparent that we had to do something different to continue serving our clients and communities in Northeastern BC” shares Karen MacPherson, CEO of St. John Ambulance (BC and Yukon). “We approached ATS because they have a well-established presence. ATS has attracted and retained its customers through strong service and relationship building, and a commitment to quality and professionalism.” The move from competitors to partnerproviders presents a new and exciting opportunity for both the two organizations and to communities of Northeastern British Columbia. Together, ATS and SJA will be able to continue serving communities in Northeastern BC with the best first aid, industrial and outdoor courses available on the market today. Residents can continue to rely on the solid expertise of each organization, as both teams share the mission of delivering quality safety training to the public. Established in Fort St John in 1998, ATS is a second-generation, family-run business. Originally providing safety training and field ambulances, ATS recently restructured its operations to focus solely on safety training. Training is and always has been the heart and future of Alpha”, asserts Sarah Conkin, President of ATS. “Our goal is to help students gain the confidence needed to competently and efficiently perform in their work environment and emergency situations. We look forward to serving the people of Fort St. John and surrounding areas from our new location, and operating within our exciting partner-provider agreement with St John Ambulance.” While collaborating to maintain their presence in Northeastern BC, the two organizations will continue to remain separate entities. SJA will no longer be operating a branch in Fort St. John, however the arrangement will enable the charity to retain its Northeastern base for delivering its mandated community care programs. The details of the partnership, such as specific course offerings, are currently in development and will be announced as soon as they become available. Customer patience is appreciated as both entities undergo this

short transition phase in Fort St. John.

BC Truck Loggers Association Supports Province’s Plan for Sector The Truck Loggers Association (TLA) and its member companies support the BC government’s newly released agenda to enhance the competitiveness of BC’s forest sector. “There are three critical goals within this Competitiveness Agenda and the third one—Stable Communities and First Nations Partners—aligns well with the TLA’s strategic plan,” said David Elstone, TLA Executive Director. “TLA members are the economic backbone of BC’s rural coastal communities with over 90 per cent of the provincial harvest done by independent logging contractors in one shape or another. This means the success of the forest sector is very much linked to the success of independent business owners—our members—in their coastal communities.” A vital strategic action within the Stable Communities and First Nations Partners goal is “working with contractor associations and major licensees to ensure contractor interests are met.” “There is an imbalance right now in the forest sector which has led to TLA members expressing concern about the health of the industry’s supply chain,” said Elstone. “I’m hopeful these concerns will be fully addressed as part of this action item.” The Competitiveness Agenda also focuses on First Nations partners which is another TLA strategic focus. “The TLA believes in building mutually beneficial First Nations partnerships by acknowledging rights and title and engaging First Nations leadership and their communities,” said Elstone. “We believe a proactive government approach to First Nations relations in BC will empower First Nations, increase their economic participation and, ultimately, create certainty and a positive business environment within BC.” Strong Past, Bright Future: A Competitiveness Agenda for BC’s Forest Sector was released along with two other key action plans; one for the pulp and paper sector and another for the value-added sector. “This comprehensive approach to getting the most out of our province’s forest resource is appreciated— timber harvesting is dependent on diverse end-users,” said Elstone. “I’m pleased to say this government is walking its talk when it comes to supporting the forest industry.”

PRINCE GEORGE Northern Development Initiative Trust Selects New CEO Earlier this year, Northern Development Initiative Trust announced that its current Chief Executive Officer (CEO) would be retiring this fall and that the Trust would commence the search for her replacement. The Trust’s Board of Directors has selected a new Chief Executive Officer to succeed retiring CEO Janine North and ensure a smooth transition of leadership this fall. Joel McKay, the Trust’s Director of Communications, will succeed Ms. North as CEO beginning October 3rd, 2016. McKay joined the Trust’s executive team in 2012, and since then has been responsible for leading the Trust’s communications and marketing, economic research and analysis, as well as the Fabulous Festivals and Events funding program. Prior to SEE NEWS UPDATE | PAGE 4

SEPTEMBER 2016

Speak Up For Safety Partnering With The Construction Industry To Raise Awareness About Falls From Heights

alling from a height is a risk many of us face in our working lives. No one is exempt from the possibility of a fall on the job —regardless of industry or occupation, age, or gender. In the construction industry, falls are a risk that workers and employers know far too well. In fact, from 2011 to 2015, falls from elevation accounted for 35 percent of all serious injuries and 26 work-related deaths. In the past five years, there have been over 5,800 fall-related i nju ries i n the construction industry — making them the third most frequent incident in B.C. construction workplaces today. Through the help and dedication of the construction industry, these numbers are improving, but statistics show that falls are still happening in workplaces all over the province. Workers are falling down stairs and off ladders; they’ve been injured falling from unguarded scaffolding, off of roofs, and as a result of not wearing proper fall protection. Working from heights may be a reality of the job, but steps can be taken to minimize the risk of falling. How? By speaking up for safety.

Building a culture of health and safety Wo r k S a f e B C e n c o u r a g e s everyone to speak up for safety on the job, even though many workers may not feel comfortable speaking up, for fear of looking weak in front of their peers. A great way to create this culture is to “walk the walk.” If your co-workers see that you’re making an effort to create a safe worksite, and are following the safety rules yourself, they’re more likely to follow suit in their own behaviours. You can set a strong example of safety by: • Leading and participating in safety meetings • Being open to discussing onsite safety • We a r i n g t h e c o r r e c t personal protective equipment • Using safety checklists • Usi ng tool s sa fely a nd correctly • Following all onsite safety procedures Once it’s in place, a strong culture of health and safety can go a long way to ensuring that everyone goes home safe every day. Resources available to help you manage a safe worksite WorkSafeBC has resources you

can use to help prevent falls from heights on your jobsite. For more information and to access these safety resources, visit worksafebc.com/health-safety. Also, check out the BC Construction Safety Alliance (www. bccsa.ca) for safety training, consultation services, and resources to help improve safety

on worksites throughout the province. Fall prevention workshop for construction – Kelowna, October 15, 2016 If you’re a tradesperson, supervisor, safety officer or safety committee member, contractor, or supplier in the construction industry, this one-day safety

workshop is for you. Learn from i ndu st r y ex p er ts about fa l l prevention solutions through hands-on experience. To register to go www.bccsa.ca/ fallsworkshop or for more information visit the news & events page on worksafebc.com.

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• Ladders and scaffolding in construction

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• Planning for safety — scenarios and written plans

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• Fall protection options — from anchors to horizontal lifelines

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PRINCE GEORGE

BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS COMING OCTOBER 22ND

PRINCE GEORGE

The BEAs are our community’s chance to recognize the best in business; to profile the entrepreneurs, innovators, organizations, and difference-makers who work diligently all year long.

CHRISTIE RAY

f you value the connections created by meeting people face-to-face at community events, you will love the fall in Prince George! We are entering what is commonly known as the busiest social season in our city. Between September 1 and January 1 there are dozens of large-scale events held in Prince George. But there is no business event larger and more significant than the Business Excellence Awards (BEAs) happening on October 22 at the Prince George Civic Centre. Recognized as a high quality celebration of business excellence, what isn’t always apparent to those who have never been to a Business Excellence Awards Gala is the sheer amount of fun our guests have at this particular event. Forget dry and stuffy. The

Business Excellence Awards Gala is a multi-media professional extravaganza filled with laughter, passion, and entertainment. This year is no different. The fun begins with our theme, which will be revealed at this year’s BEA Nominees Luncheon on September 15 th . The music, the emcee, the décor, and even the food, can become part of the theme. But the one thing that stays the same is our commitment to delivering the highest quality experience and celebration possible. The BEAs are our community’s chance to recognize the best in business; to profile the entrepreneurs, innovators, organizations, and difference-makers who work diligently all year long.

The BEAs are also an opportunity to shine a light on some dedicated and generous sponsors. It has been sa id before that ‘we couldn’t do it without our sponsors’ which is completely true in our case as well. The cost of putting on a unique event, which takes more than 10 months to produce, far exceeds the total revenue brought in by ticket sales. Our tremendous sponsors make it possible to host an event of this caliber, which makes recognizing business excel lence possible for Prince George. A lthoug h nom i nations a re now complete for the 10 traditional award categories and a l s o t h e H e l l Ye a h P r i n c e George on line category, you c a n s t i l l joi n t he energ y at our BEA Nominees Luncheon on September 15 at the Coast Inn of the North as we reveal the top four finalists in each award category. Tickets are on sale now and can be reserved by calling the Prince George Chamber of Commerce at (250) 562.2454 or online by visiting www.pgchamber.bc.ca Christie Ray is the CEO of the Prince George Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at christie.ray@pgchamber. bc.ca.

SEPTEMBER 2016

NEWS UPDATE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

joining the Trust, McKay was an award-winning business journalist in Vancouver specializing in coverage of the province’s natural resources industries, notably forestry, mining, oil and gas and renewable energy. The decision follows a rigorous three-month selection process that fielded potential succession candidates from across British Columbia. Ms. North will remain CEO until the transition date, helping to ensure the Trust continues to deliver on its mandate to strengthen and diversify the economy in central and northern BC Ms. North’s decision to retire comes after more than a decade of service to the Trust, and is driven by her personal desire to spend more time with her family and other board and personal commitments. Since 2005, the Trust has used its resources to approve more than $150 million in funding for more than 2,000 projects throughout central and northern BC. In that time, the Trust has leveraged $1.2 billion in new investment to the region and helped diversify the economy. Today, the Trust is sustainably managed with a capital base in excess of $250 million and two dozen programs and services that foster collaboration, sustainability and diversification in the region’s communities.

PRINCE

RUPERT Region Facing Worker Shortage Employers in Prince Rupert and Port Edward will have to develop strategies to increase labour participation rates to avoid shortages in the light industrial, retail and hospitality sectors as workers choose more high-paying jobs in the region, according to a new study released by the Asia Pacific Gateway Skills Table (Skills Table). The Prince Rupert/Port Edward Labour Supply Study found that labour will be sufficient to meet the demands of the anticipated port expansions in 2017 as more workers will gravitate toward higher-paying positions offered by port facilities and related employers. As a result, the other industries identified will have a difficult time competing for labour because their business models restrict them from offering more competitive wages. There are other factors contributing to the shrinking labour supply in the region including an overall declining population in the region, a flat youth population, high rates of out-migration and a retiring workforce. Similar to many other rural communities in British Columbia, Prince Rupert and Port Edward struggle to maintain their population and attract new people to fill the labour gap. By 2030, the SEE NEWS UPDATE | PAGE 15

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SEPTEMBER 2016

TERRACE

“There have been a number of actions and initiatives from within the Downtown Plan that have already been implemented.”

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

produced a number of recommendations that have since been implemented such as the creation of an official Business Improvement Area, the TDIA (Terrace Downtown Improvement Area).” The City of Terrace was officially incorporated in 1911 and has grown over the years to become a major transportation nexus and service centre within the Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine. With a currently population of just over 12,000 the community, like many around the province, has gradually seen an erosion in the vitality and importance of its original downtown core, as new businesses spring up in the peripheral regions. Recapturing that interest, rejuvenating the economic value and physical appearance of the city centre while striving to enhance and expand the residential and retail populations of the downtown area are key goals of the ongoing revitalization effort. “The TDIA had a number of focus a reas such as attracting shoppers and visitors to the downtown, aging infrastructure, promoting business and beautification or maintenance of downtown properties among others,” he said. “There were limits from council’s perspective on what it could do with finite taxpayer dollars. T he City has worked closely

DANIELLE MYLES MANAGER, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT, CITY OF TERRACE

Incorporated in 1911 the City of Terrace currently has a population of just over 12,000 residents with businesses and support organizations to create a collaborative approach to downtown revitalization.” Incorporated within the City’s Official Community Plan (OCP) the Downtown Plan was established to coordinate a range of upgrading strategies from small scale activities such as cleaning, graffiti removal, garbage collection, signage and awning updates to major infrastructure upgrades

such as road work, lighting enhancement, tree planting, bench installations and others. For the City’s part it has introduced incentives such as a façade grant program (a partnership with Northern Development Initiative Trust) to encourage business leaders to improve the outward appearance of their enterprises and the Downtown Revitalization Tax Exemption Program which provides for five years of

tax exemption for new construction or upgrading projects of over $100,000 in construction value. “There have been a number of actions and initiatives from within the Downtown Plan that have already been implemented, we’ve been striving to see that vision of the Plan become a reality for quite a while now,” explained Danielle Myles Terrace’s Manager, Economic Development. “It’s certainly a work in progress,

we recognize there’s still more work to be done, especially in terms of major infrastructure improvements, but there is a good plan in place. A number of good programs are in place and we’re making consistent improvements over time.” The City is also just about to launch a downtown parking study to aid with its development efforts. “It’s an opportunity to improve parking and to attract residents, visitors and businesses to the downtown area,” Block said. “We’re also championing a buy local program called Love Terrace which is part of a broader program called Love Northern BC and we have a lot of support from our local businesses for this program, many of which are in the downtown,” Myles said. “Our goal is simple: to have a vibrant, attractive downtown. We know we’re getting there, we just have to keep working at it.” To learn more please visit the City’s website at: www.terrace.ca

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SEPTEMBER 2016

MEETING PLACES Connections and Community Developed Through Meeting Venues Conference Centres Are An Effective Way To Promote A Community BY DAVID HOLMES

he concept of a meeting place, a universally recognized location where the public can gather and where i mp or t a nt d i sc u ssion s a nd business transactions cou ld occur has been a part of the human experience since the dawn of civilization. British Columbia’s First Nations perfected the concept with the building of elaborate Longhouses that served a variety of social and cultural purposes. In Europe every village had a community hall or Great Hall that served an identical function. Far from diminishing, in the electronic age the need for such facilities has become ever more important, only now the style, size and variety of the venues has reached unprecedented levels. A formal meeting place by definition can be anything from an intimate boardroom cloistering a handful of individuals in private discussion, to a full blown conference centre with 1,000 plus delegates coming to the location from around the world. Typically a formal meeting place would be found within the structure of a major hotel, or in a specially designed and constructed conference facility. Regardless of scale all have the same things in common: facilitating the coming together of people in the most positive and efficient manner possible. “What a meeting place does is bring outside business, individuals and organizations to this community, which exposes it to these individuals who will ideally then look at it for alternate purposes such as leisure, travel, destination, residential and others,” explained Denise Tacon, General Manager of the Vancouver Island Conference Centre (VICC) located in Nanaimo. On Vancouver Island the Victoria Conference Centre (VCC) and its companion Crystal Garden comprises the largest operations of its type on the Island. The VCC alone provides more than 73,000 square feet of meeting space, features 19 different multi-purpose meeting rooms (including a 400 seat lecture theatre). Located directly across

The Victoria Conference Centre features more than 73,000 square feet of high quality meeting space

The Prince George Civic Centre is one of the premier conference venues in northern British Columbia the street is the 25,000 square foot Crystal Garden, a historic structure in the provincial capital that is capable of accommodating groups of up to 1,100. “In our 25 years, the VCC has hosted 6,495 events generating more than $670 million in

estimated economic impact for Victoria,” it states on the VCC website. “Our conference centre is a key econom ic d river for ou r community. Our clients and their delegates come from all over t he world . We at t ra c t

business travelers and see them return as tourists, residents and investors.” To learn more visit the VCC website: www.victoriaconference.com SEE MEETING PLACES | PAGE 8

MEETING PLACES

SEPTEMBER 2016

MEETING PLACES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

Another major meeting place in the province is the expansive Penticton Trade and Conference Centre (PTCC), a vast multi-function facility offering more than 60,000 square feet of flexible meeting and exhibition space. Idyllically located only blocks from the shore of Lake Okanagan the operation is the largest centre of its kind in the region and has served as a successful community ambassador for decades. The Centre’s main ballroom offers more than 15,000 square feet of space, there are eight additional meeting rooms of various sizes and it is fully equipped with the latest in audio visual and Internet based resources. “As the Okanagan’s only full-service convention facility, the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre annually plays host to conventions and conferences,” its website states. To learn more visit the PTCC website: www.pentictonconventioncentre.com For Tacon from the VICC a meeting place acts as a silent promotional partner for a community. “A meeting place can manifest a number of different opportunities for the community from the people who come here, depending on their interests. In many ways a facility like the VICC is a physical ambassador for the community.” One of the largest venues of its type on Vancouver Island, the VICC is a 38,000 square foot meeting and banquet space capable of hosting major conferences, trade shows and other personal and business functions. The Centre can accommodate events involving as many as 1,300 people at a time, but also offers smaller

The Penticton Trade and Conference Centre is one of the largest facilities of its kind in the Interior meeting rooms. “Having a facility like this offers an environment where people can gather and have events in larger numbers. Having a major facility allows larger numbers of people to come together and celebrate or be informed all under one roof, in ways not possible if several smaller venues are used,” she said. SEE MEETING PLACES | PAGE 9

The Vancouver Island Conference Centre has a main hall and several smaller meeting rooms

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The main auditorium at the Prince George Civic Centre can accommodate groups of up to 2,000

MEETING PLACES

SEPTEMBER 2016

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MEETING PLACES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

To learn more visit the VICC website: www.viconference.com One of the premier meeting places in Northern British Columbia is the Prince George Civic Centre (PGCC). As with all of the major provincial facilities adaptability and flexibility has proven to be its key to success. The largest space in the centre is its auditorium which can be either partitioned into three separate rooms, or opened wide to provide 18,000 square feet of conference or trade show space. Created to accom modate as many 2,000 people at a time it

is the facility’s largest meeting space. T he operation a lso houses eight smaller meeting rooms (for groups ranging from five to 140), an outdoor plaza area and pre-function area for visitors to gather, register and meet and mingle prior to entering the main hall. To learn more visit the PGCC we b s ite: w w w.p r i n c e ge orgeciviccentre.ca Regardless of scale, location or design, the province’s inventory of conference facilities is among the best and most attractive in the country and will continue to well serve the province in the decades to come.

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SEPTEMBER 2016

HISTORIC STRUCTURE PROVES POPULAR WITH VISITORS SPOTLIGHT

Pioneer Guesthouse: Favoured Destination For Adventure Travelers

RINCE RUPERT – An echo of the city’s past, yet offering contemporary services, the Pioneer Guesthouse has become the destination of choice for adventure travelers from around the world. Housed in an extensively updated and ex pa nd e d s t r u c t u re d at i n g back to the early 20 th Century, the business has been awarded the prestigious Trip Advisor Certificate of Excellence for the third year in a row! The award is especially pleasing for owner Christy Allen as it is literally a vote of confidence from her past satisfied customers. “The people who come here aren’t just backpackers as we get people of all ages, from 18 to 80, but certainly those who are young at heart, self-sufficient, literally the adventure travelers,” she explained. A llen acquired the Pioneer Guesthouse in 2001, gradually converting it from a hostel style accommodation to its present g u e s t ho u s e c on f i g u rat ion . “Hostels are generally meant for people who are traveling around the world, typically backpacking, where they will find dorm style accommodation. This is a room with several beds, so you’re actually just paying for a bed for the night,” Allen explained. As a guesthouse additional ser v ic e s a re now b ei n g offered including a few hotel style rooms and even a two-bedroom apartment. While no meals are served at the Pioneer Guesthouse, there is a full kitchen to allow guests to look after their own cooking needs. Extensively expanded the facility consists of 17 rooms, measures more than 6,800 square feet and if filled to capacity could accommodate as many as 48 guests. “The building itself, which was upgraded in 2010, had originally been built to house workers

Christy Allen has enjoyed owning and operating the iconic Pioneer Guesthouse since 2001

“Staying at a guesthouse is special. It’s a unique way for travelers to meet other like-minded individuals.” CHRISTY ALLEN OWNER, PIONEER GUESTHOUSE

who were constructing the local courthouse or so I’ve been told,” Allen explained. Operating year round the Pioneer Guesthouse has a staff of about five. For Allen, winning the Trip Advisor award is confirmation that her business model works. “Overall we have a very high level of guest satisfaction, in large part due to the friendly staff and the quality of cleanliness,” she said. “Staying at a guesthouse is special. It’s a unique way for travelers to meet other like-minded individuals.” F o r m o r e v i s i t www.pioneerprincerupert.com

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MOVERS & SHAKERS

SEPTEMBER 2016

Terrace Mills Memorial Hospital will be acquiring a new MRI imaging unit in the spring of 2017, which will give doctors a better view of the inside of their patients’ bodies in order to properly diagnose and perform surgeries. The machine costs nearly $3 million and will be financed by the Northern Health Authority, the BC Government, and the North West Regional Hospital District. Dr. Matthew Brucks has joined the opthamology practice at Vision North Eye Centre. Dr. Brucks completed his Opthamology Residency in Loma Linda, California, and his postresidency training in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Vision North Eye Centre is located at 4634 Park Avenue. The former Kawrner Store location and the empty lot between Evergreen and Kalum Streets will become the new site of CK Advertising, after rezoning and amendments by city council. Carl Goodall, owner of CK Advertising, applied for zoning amendments and official community plan from the city in June, and planned to purchase the properties from Doug and Lydee Stainton. The amendments were approved and Goodall will be relocating his business from Thornhill to the new properties.

Prince Rupert After serving the City of Prince Rupert for nearly 60 years, Associated Engineering has announced the opening of their new Prince Rupert office. They will be providing consulting services to the City and a growing number of clients in their location in downtown Prince Rupert at 344 2 nd Avenue West. The Port of Prince Rupert announced plans for a $16 million project that involves construction of a new maintenance and warehouse complex on the corner of Scott Road and Highway 16. The project comes as a result of DP World’s acquisition of the current maintenance facility, as part of the Fairview Container Terminal expansion. A contract for construction and design of the building has been awarded to the Coast Tsimshian Northern Contractors Alliance (CTNCA), in partnership with IDL Project. Cow Bay Gift Gallery, located at 24 Cow Bay Road, is celebrating their 25 th anniversary in business. As of August 31 st , Stiles Place Seafood & Grill has closed down their location at 340 Stiles Place, and will now be catering private functions from between 30 – 148 people. A gold and silver mine, the Brucejack Gold Project, located

north of Stewart, BC, is looking to fill 500 positions. Pretivm Resources is hiring for the project, which is now moving into its construction phase, and recently visited the Nisga’a Hall to recruit workers. The mine is expected to run for the next 18 years, and sections of the project are located on Nass territory of the Nisga’a Nation. Last year, a cooperation and benefits agreement was signed between Pretivm and the Nisga’a for use of the land.

possibly even reaching a goal of 30 million tons annually.

Ocean View Hotel, on 1 st Avenue West, is offering an updated menu to their customers. The venue is also hosting the second annual Blaine Dieter Memorial BBQ on September 24 th .

Williams Lake dentist, Dr. Rudy Wassenaar, will be inducted as a Fellow into the American Academy of Implant Dentistry on October 26 th . He is one of only a few Canadian dentists to be recognized in this way. Dr. Wassenaar is a member of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry already, and he challenged the requirements and examination for one of their programs, and will be honoured by the organization for doing so.

AltaGas applied for a bylaw amendment in Port Edward to permit zoning of temporary lodging. AltaGas has partnered with the Metlakatla Band to do a joint project on the land, resulting in either a camp or staging area for a potential LNG project. Prince Rupert citizen, Gerda Kouwenhoven, is commended for volunteering with the local Canadian Red Cross facility for 25 years. Kouwenhoven immigrated from The Hague, Netherlands, and took over running the facility in 1990 when she saw that it was expected to close down. The Northwest Aboriginal Canadian Entrepreneurs (NW-ACE) program graduated ten students this summer and received a prestigious award for their significant impact. NW-ACE was awarded the Alan Blizzard Award for 2016 from the Society for Teaching and Learning in Higher Education (STLHE). The award is presented once every two years and recognizes teaching and student learning excellence. The NW-ACE program was formed as a result of a partnership between the Tribal Resources Investment Corporation (TRICORP), Northwest Community College, and the University of Victoria’s Peter B. Gustavson School of Business. The National Energy Board has approved a 15-year extension for WCC LNG Ltd. The license allows for an exporting license in shipping natural gas out of Prince Rupert for 40 years in total. The proposed project aims to ship 15 million tons annually, and

The Lax Kw’alaams Band has voted in favour of continuing discussions for the Pacific Northwest LNG project. Further negotiations are underway for a benefits package and further talks. The federal government is expected to make a decision on the project sometime this month.

Williams Lake

The Northern Shuswap Treaty Society (NSTS) Board of Directors has appointed Robert Moraes to fill the role of Northern Secwepemc te Qelmucw (NStQ) Treaty Negotiator. Moraes is originally from Lax Kw’alaams, and he will be serving his new role from an office located in the Northern Shuswap Tribal Council building in Williams Lake. Milo MacDonald, an inspector for the Williams Lake RCMP, will soon take on a new role as Chief Administrative Officer for the City of Williams Lake. He has been with the RCMP for more than 20 years, and will assume his new position on September 12 th . The Museum of the Cariboo Chilcotin celebrated its 25 th anniversary in the community this summer. Since the museum’s beginnings, an estimated nine thousand artifacts have been donated and collected.

Prince George According to a report on the economies of seven mid-sized cities in the country, the Conference Board of Canada predicts that Prince George’s economy will grow more than all other cities listed in the study. The Conference Board’s report indicates that Prince George’s economy may outpace Canada’s national economy.

T&S Tubing & Shafting Inc. (T&S) has been acquired by Reliance Metals Canada Limited (RMCL). T&S, established and run by Barb Wilkinson, is based in Prince George and has specialized in supply and processing services in the steel marketplace to mining, pulp and lumber, and manufacturing industries for the past 30 years. As Barb Wilkinson steps down, her son, Tom Wilkinson, will oversee the everyday T&S operations moving forward. The Northern Regional Construction Association, with their head corporate office situated in Prince George, has announced that Believe Ikechi has stepped into the role of Manager, Member Relations and Marketing. Ikechi’s role will be focused on sustaining and enhancing value to the association’s members in northern BC.

11 The Board of Directors for Northern Development Initiative Trust has announced that they have selected a new Joel McKay CEO to replace retiring CEO, Janine North. As of October 3 rd , 2016, Joel McKay, the Trust’s current Director of Communications, will replace Ms. North. Mr. McKay has been with the executive team since 2012, and was formerly an awardwinning business journalist based in Vancouver. September 6 th marks the beginning of early registration for the Northern BC Housing Conference, which will be held in Prince George from November 14-16 th . The event is co-hosted by the Canadian Homebuilders’ Association (CHBA) Northern BC, and the Community Development Institute (CDI) at UNBC. The Fabulous Festival and Events program run by Northern Development Initiative Trust has been operating successfully for a full year, and has provided more than $100,000 in funding to 70 festivals in Northern BC.

SEE MOVERS & SHAKERS | PAGE 12

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Dawson Creek Northern Lights College in Dawson Creek has been awarded $33.02 million in funding from both the federal and provincial governments, and a group of private companies which include Encana, TransCanada Pipelines, Canbriam Energy Inc., and Shell Canada. The funding will go towards construction of a new training centre for their skilled trades programs. Construction is scheduled to start this year, and it is expected to open in early 2018. Leona Green is closing down

operations at Hillspring Farms after 35 years rehabilitating wildlife animals in Northeast BC. Green’s clinic, the Hillspring Wildlife Centre, helped nearly 3,000 injured or orphaned animals over the years, and was featured in publications around the world.

utility companies would also have access to the facility for various drills.

other related services. CDI is anticipated to open by the end of this year.

The Pouce Café is now open for business on the highway turn in Pouce. The café will be serving up homemade baked goods, daily specials, pizza and sandwiches.

Plans are in the works for a proposed regional fire training centre near the Dawson Creek Airport. City Council is in discussion with surrounding municipalities in the Peace Region. The training centre would meet requirements set by the National Fire Protection Association certification, and would be used by Dawson Creek Fire Department and surrounding fire departments. RCMP and

Fort St. John

A new project is slated to begin this month in the North Peace Region as Surerus Pipeline plans to lay nearly 150 kilometres of pipe for a project called the Northeast BC Pipeline. The project involves 250 positions, which the company aims to recruit from the Fort St. John region, and is expected to last until March.

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A partnership has been announced between St. John Ambulance and Alpha Training Solutions (ATS) in Fort St. John, to expand their reach in delivering safety and first aid training to the Northeastern area of the province. Alpha Training Solutions has taken over the St. John Ambulance location at 10066 Tundra Street. As part of the partnerprovider agreement, ATS will provide St. John Ambulance training to the surrounding area, in addition to their preexisting varieties of outdoor and industrial courses from other providers. Other details of the partnership are still under development and will be made available soon. The University of Northern BC plans to open its first Community Development Institute (CDI) in Fort St. John. The facility will develop and implement economic diversification plans, and will provide research and

Today!

Quesnel The GR Baker Memorial hospital will soon receive upgrades to their ventilation system and boiler plant. Northern Health requested $146,600 from the Cariboo Chilcotin Regional Hospital District for the project, which adopted a bylaw to provide the funding. Quesnel’s new arena, the West Fraser Centre, has now entered its construction phase. The project remains within budget, having used nearly $875 thousand dollars by the end of July, and is scheduled to open in September 2017.

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A design and floor plan was approved by city council for the Smithers Airport modernization project. Construction plans span eleven hundred square metres, and the goal for design development completion is September 13 th with construction beginning in March 2017. A woodland license for 36.5 thousand hectares of land, spanning 25 years, has been issued by the BC Government as part of ongoing reconciliation agreements with the Lake Babine Nation. Negotiations are moving towards Chief Wilf Adam’s goal of procuring a license for 250 thousand cubic metres from the provincial government. It is estimated that the current license will bring in approximately 1.5 to 2 million dollars annually to the Lake Babine Nation.

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FROM THE COVER/QUESNEL

POKÉMON GO – PASSING FAD OR MARKETING OPPORTUNITY?

QUESNEL SIMON TURNER

ou are hereby forgiven if your first reaction to that headline was to sigh and/ or mumble “Oh please…” I confess that was my reaction to the tsunami-like impact of this summer’s craze, just like it was with Tickle-Me-Elmo, Beyblades, Tamagotchi, Pokémon cards, and Cabbage Patch dolls. Hula-hoops, and Davey Crockett coonskin caps were both before

my time but no doubt held the same attraction. If you were a child of a certain age at a certain time, your life was officially over until those items, and countless others over the years, were in your possession. If you were a parent, resistance was futile. Before I go any further, a touch of Pokémon Go 101 is in order: “Pokémon”: an abbreviation of the Japanese brand, “Poketto Monsuta”, anglicized to pocket monster Game objective: first, to collect all the Pokémon; then to “train” them into powerful teams to compete with other game players – sorry, “trainers” PokéStops: places that allow the trainer to collect items to capture more Pokémon Poké Bait: food to lure Pokémon Like most people who are not into electronic games, I mourned for the loss of a “real” childhood

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

PokéBait. These are skills well beyond my comprehension but other ideas that even I can grasp include identifying and publicizing the proximity of local rare Pokémon; rewarding Pokémon Go selfies taken in front of your storefront; and offering charging-station services (Pokémon Go is quite the drain on a cell phone battery – give the owner of that cell-phone something to look at or do or buy while he or she is waiting). Millions are playing Pokémon Go on a daily basis; the possibilities are endless. And there is nothing wrong in knowing your Pikachu from your Snorlax. Simon Turner is Acting Manager for Quesnel & District Chamber of Commerce while Amber Gregg is on maternity leave. He can be reached at qchamber@quesnelbc.com

CLINT FRASER NORTHERN BC TOURISM ASSOCIATION CEO

Clint Fraser, Northern BC Tourism Association’s CEO stay on top of those changes— which is an ongoing challenge.” However, t he more t h i ngs change, the more (some) things stay the same. Northern BC, after all, remains one of the world’s

best-preserved natural environments, making it an essential destination for travelers with a taste for true wilderness. Fraser describes the north’s wilderness as its “key tourism

Jeremy Koreski.tiff: Northern BC offers unparalleled fishing experiences CREDIT: DESTINATION BC / JEREMY KORESKI

how his business had noticed an up-tick serious enough for him to make some adjustments in his staffing and hours of business to take advantage of the increased foot traffic. Pokémon Go just got real. So, in Quesnel, we decided that our Visitor Centre wandering “Discover Quesnel” tent and display should be located at or close to PokéStops. Having endured many days of tedious tranquility in what we had considered to be high traffic areas for passersby, our summer students were immediately engaging with the public drawn to the locations like Pokémon to PokéBait. A simple yet effective strategy – all we did was move to where people were expected to be. But how do you get people to go to your business premises? Evidently, there are ways to have PokéStops relocated, just as there are ways to set lures with

“There is a ton of work to do not only in promoting experiences but also assisting in developing them.”

TOURISM going to carry out their mission with gusto. But if the opportunities afforded by exponentially developing technologies are large, so are the challenges. As with every industry, technologies like social media and mobile have transformed consumer behaviour and changed the game for all marketers. Connecting with consumers is easier than ever—but in some ways it’s also more difficult than ever, because there are so many potential points of contact. It’s a paradox that the entire tourism industry is grappling with. Fraser describes it like this: “Advancements in technology have redefined consumer purchasing behaviour, creating a fragmented and non-linear path to purchasing. As a Destination Marketing Organization, we need to be able to adapt quickly and

of all those youngsters, and then mourned some more for the wasted time of all those millennials, head down and shut off to the world, walking into lampposts in their quest for PokéWorld domination. The PokéInfection had even spread to my adult sons and daughter-in-law. That head-shaking moment did at least get me to thinking about who is playing Pokémon Go, and I was genuinely amazed at seeing, firsthand, how this is a multi-generational phenomenon. Groups of teenagers, groups of young adults, young families, grandparents with their grandchildren... It also dawned on me how Pokémon Go is really not so different from forerunners such as geo-caching and orienteering. Then I heard a story on CBC of how a café owner in Prince George had noticed how many more people were frequenting the vicinity of his business area, and

The Google Trekker capturing scenes of rare beauty in the north CREDIT: CLINT FRASER

asset”. The two types of travelers who are making the trek north in larger numbers are road trippers and anglers with a love for Steelhead trout fishing. Visitors who tour the northern BC highway system are exposed to some of the world’s most scenic views. Fraser says they may be en route to Alaska on the world famous Alaska Highway, or taking the “rugged and remote” Stewart Cassiar, or making their way to the north coast via the Yellowhead Highway. T hen there’s the f ish. T he northern BC steelhead trout fishing experience is renowned globally—and few can match the passion of the typical steelhead fly fisher, who is prone to traveling far distances for the best opportunities. When these fly fishers from all over the world reach northern BC, they experience naturally

well-stocked runs in both saltwater and freshwater settings. And they get something else equally important. “Most of the anglers visiting northern BC are certainly looking to catch fish,” says Fraser, “but they also come to the north to experience ‘real’ wilderness and get away from the hustle and bustle of regular life.” No matter which technologies connect consumers to marketers in the future, there’s one thing Fraser knows tourists will always have demand for: real wilderness. “As more and more consumers look for travel experiences ‘off the beaten path’ northern BC continues to gain popularity as a destination. It is exciting to work with our industry to realize the potential of tourism in northern BC.” northernbctourism.com

OPINION

14 A division of Invest Northwest Publishing Ltd. Prince George Office 2871 Wildwood Cres Prince George, BC V2K3J4 Toll free: 1.866.758.2684 Fax: 778.441.3373 Email: info@businessexaminer.ca Website: www.businessexaminer.ca

SEPTEMBER 2016

PUBLISHER/EDITOR | Lise MacDonald, lise@businessexaminer.ca SALES | Shawn Bishop, shawn@businessvi.ca; Josh Higgins josh@businessvi.ca; Joanne Iormetti, Joanne@businessexaminer.ca WRITERS | Goody Niosi, Beth Hendry-Yim, John MacDonald WEBSITE | John MacDonald, john@businessexaminer.ca

GOOD ECONOMICS IS BAD POLITICS IN THESE TUMULTUOUS TIMES

MARK MACDONALD

“I

didn’t know what I was voting for.” Those words still haunt me. It was one of several similar quotes from British citizens who cast their Brexit votes in favour of Great Britain leaving the European Union. Whether or not the “yes, let’s leave” vote is good or bad for the United Kingdom remains to be seen, and we’re not about to debate it here. Nevertheless, I do believe there is a dangerous mindset that pervades today’s electorate, which is not thinking at all. Citizens are urged to get out and exercise their votes, which is a good thing. But being informed and educated about the issues and candidates who will make decisions on our behalf is even more important.

If voters don’t do their own due diligence, their ballots will most likely be cast based on the last emotional outburst to catch their attention prior to scribbling down their ‘X’. Most sales decisions are made from an emotional base, and marketing reflects that. Mood swings very clearly drive many consumer purchases, but if that’s all that determines the outcome of an election, we’re all headed for big trouble as a society. During a recent election, a group of young to middle-aged people met to hear from candidates – or be heard. Many were unemployed and/or on income assistance. At the beginning of the session, candidates were asked, bluntly: “What are you going to give me?” Just the brashness of the question, which came from multiple sources, was shocking. But it was the mindset behind it that was most troubling. What they were asking - and by doing so, suggesting - was they would vote for the person that would give them the most in terms of more government funding. One candidate’s response to the question was the party they represented would offer opportunity, in terms of education

and training so individuals who needed a helping hand up so they could move towards being economically self-sufficient, which would result in feeling better about themselves and having a bright future. The response to that was, generally, blank looks. Followed by another question, much like the first: “What are you going to give me?” That question, obviously, is pervasive in North America. It seems to get elected, all politicians need to do is promise to continue to shovel more money off the back of the truck into the hands of those who vote for them. Yet that isn’t corruption. On the other hand, if a candidate went to a company and promised to give them contracts and funding if they voted for them, that would be corruption. What’s the difference? There isn’t any. Both “methods” are corrupt. It’s just that the former hasn’t been identified as such, and most likely won’t by those who fear they’d be branded for “poor bashing”, or being heartless and cold. The end result is where we sit today: Political class warfare, where it’s okay to bash the “one per cent” or “two per centers”

– you know, often the ones who create private sector jobs. And simultaneously empower those on the other end of the spectrum who either have to be, or want to be, totally government dependent. If this trend continues – and i t s h o w s n o s i g n s o f a b a ting – we could soon reach the point where the most powerful people in a country would be the unemployed and, perhaps, uninformed. I recently sat through a seminar that discussed whether good economics could be good politics. The conclusion reached by most was that it could not. If what really needs to be done to improve and sustain a country’s economy is promised, i.e. realistic budgets and fiscal restraint where necessary, voters would turn it down. Belt tightening and “tough love” are necessary ingredients in strong and poor economies. Restraint is needed during times of largesse, in order to store up for leaner periods that doubtless will come through other stages of economic cycles. When government revenues are weaker, they can’t provide as many services as voters demand. This is how the “real world” works, isn’t it?

It is how government should work, but doesn’t. If a politician today said they were going to trim government spending – meaning reductions in public service jobs – don’t you think there’d be a concerted, forceful pushback? It would have to be a genuine financial mess before the majority of the electorate would vote for someone to clea n it up. And at this moment, North America isn’t there. A sudden jump in interest rates would get it there instantly, as would a major international conflict. So here we sit, with yet more major elections looming that are so important to millions of people. And all we seem to hear is emotional outcries designed to enrage the masses and avoid important issues, drowning out reason and policies that could affect generations to come. Most are now asking, “What are you going to give me?” John F. Kennedy who famously put it another way during his U.S. P resident ia l ca mpa ig n decades ago: “A sk not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country.” Would JFK get elected today asking that now?

HOUSING IS A ‘CAN-DO’ ATTITUDE THAT MOST CITIES JUST DON’T GET

ROGER MCKINNON Business Examiner Vancouver Island welcomes Roger McKinnon to our team of contributors. Roger has over 40 years experience in the real estate industry and other business operations across Vancouver Island, and is well know n for his candid opinions.

sk literally every business owner, builder or developer about the attitude towards business from Vancouver Island bureaucrats and you will hear things like “We can’t do that,” “No, that’s not possible,” or just collective groans from the front counters of city halls.

Why are many areas on Vancouver Island not growing at the pace they should? The answer is simple: Most regions of the Island are not very business friendly, and bureaucracies and rules are out of control. A n example of a ‘Yes’ attitude and how to eliminate red tape is Langford, which is one of the fastest growing cities in BC. Not too many years ago it was nicknamed “Dogpatch”, but you can’t say that now, as they have grown by 26 per cent since 2001 and are projected to double their growth by 2026. They w ill be getting close to the population of Victoria! Here is a quick overview of some of the major things Mayor Stew Young, council and staff of La ng ford has done to get growth going at a record rate and build a healthy city with a live, work, and play balance. • Rezon i ng appl ications i n less than 3 months. Compare that to most cities of 6 months to 2 years. • 2 day residential building permit approval. • Development Permit processing in 30 days: guaranteed

in most cases. • Deferring Public Hearing Fees: A “pay as you go” approach a l lows fee pay ments immediately prior to a Public Hearing. No hearing, no fee. • Landscaping bonding has been reduced from 125 to 100 per cent. Landscaping checks will be completed within 48 hou rs of noti fication, a nd b ond s ret u r ned w it h i n t wo weeks - not like 2 years in most other cities. • Sub d iv i sion S t atements of Conditions (also known as ‘preliminary layout approvals’ or PLAs) can be issued within 45 days of a subdivision application. Previously they took up to six months or more to be issued. • New reg u lations keep com i ng to f u r t her remove con s t r u c t ion a nd pl a n n i n g barriers. This quick list offers huge incentives to business, developers, builders, and taxpayers. Also, Langford has not raised taxes for over 10 years. Langford actually proactively engages with, and creates relationships with developers and

builders, and “gets” the Supply and Demand rule of law. The principle of supply and demand is common sense. If we want reasonable housing prices, then slow demand by creating more supply. Most regions on the Island do the exact opposite, and create more red tape, by-laws, fees, and even more confusing interpretations of building inspections, which are a developer’s nightmare. Langford has a very different approach to creating relationsh ips w ith busi ness a nd is a contrast to many other communities, which add time and extra costs to developments - which in turn raises prices due to slow processing time and extra red tape. T he added hassle of try ing to work with municipal and/ or city leadership has led developers to choose not to work in certain cities. It’s just too much hassle. Local governments need to turn the prevailing “No” attitude into a “Yes” if they really want to get on top of affordable housing and sustainable growth.

Some people th i n k it’s not good to g row, a nd that they should just stay the same. My argument to this is simple: Cities a nd mu n icipa l ities need to g row. It i s t he ba sic r u le of economics. . .it is why we call it economic growth, not economic-stay-the-same. T h is “No” attitude k i l ls g row th by frustrati ng business leaders to go elsewhere, and in the end, when we need more services, taxes go up to cover the shortfall. Red tape laden bureaucracy gets i n t he way a nd slows things down, creating peaks and valleys in housing pricing, inflation and worst of all, stops development oppor tu n it ies altogether. A “ C a n-D o” a t t i t u d e c a n change that from both sides. Business leaders can create groups to help open better lines of communication, and elected leaders ca n actua l ly lead, a nd not ju st be led by senior staff.

Roger McKinnon can be reached at roger-mckinnon@shaw.ca

SUBCRIPTIONS | $45 PER YEAR (12 ISSUES), $80 FOR 2 YEARS (24 ISSUES), SUBSCRIBE ONLINE: WWW.BUSINESSEXAMINER.CA. DISTRIBUTION: FOURTH WEEK OF EACH MONTH VIA CANADA POST AD MAIL. The publisher accepts no responsibility for unsolicited submissions. The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. Produced and published in British Columbia. All contents copyright Business Examiner Peace Cariboo Skeena, 2016. Canadian Publications Mail Acct.: 40069240

SMITHERS/SALES

SEPTEMBER 2016

REGION SEES MAJOR TOURISM GROWTH Fabulous restaurants and unique shopping experiences, on top of spectacular backcountry hiking outings, helps persuade people to stop and play in the valley.

SMITHERS HEATHER GALLAGHER

mithers is enjoying a substantial increase in tourism visitor numbers this summer. Staff at the Smithers Visitor Centre have reported that they welcomed a record-breaking amount of more visitors, in a single day, than they have experienced in any day over the past eight years. A staff of three welcomed and provided visitor information services to over 154 people who stopped by the Centre on July 30. Numbers were up all month resulting in the record-breaking day. Increases were noted for June at 4.3%, July at 10.2% and August numbers are up to this date. Fabulous restaurants and unique shopping experiences, on top of spectacular backcountry hiking outings, helps persuade people to stop and play in the valley. Paddleboarding and kayaking sports are hot this summer with Susan Smith of Aquabatics Kayaks and Canoes saying “last year our sales were higher than we have experienced in the past

and this year we’re positioned to exceed those numbers.” The many festivals and activities hosted in the Valley, including the Midsummer and Fall Fair, along with weekly “Lawnchair Lounge” Music at Bovill Square (organized by the Smithers District Chamber of Commerce) provides wonderful musical experiences for locals and tourists and this year the Bulkley Valley Classical String Society introduced a new Classical Music Festival, along with Orchestra North, that provided 18 concerts and musical popups throughout the community over the second week in August. With new improved mountain biking trail systems, bikers are in abundance and with the Chamber of Commerce-sponsored mobile ice cream parlor, operated by a student entrepreneur, the happiness quotient has risen as people are viewed strolling the red bricked Main Street sidewalks licking up the flavors. A cool treat and a cool summer business for young entrepreneurs to make university funds.

To add to the Valley vibrancy thousands of people passed through the gates at the Bulkley Valley Exhibition August 24 to 28 enjoying local musicians like Mark Perry and honorary Smithereens like Apaloosa and Cory Marquardt along with Midway rides, livestock shows, loggers sports and a rodeo dance. Over the September long weekend more entertainment thrills the locals and visitors as the over-100-year-old Telkwa Barbecue takes place along with the little iron and big iron competitions at the annual Demolition Derby sponsored by the Bulkley Valley Kinsmen. More music over the long weekend features Barney Bentall, Colin James and Jordan McIntosh. It’s an exciting time for Valley businesses as the completion of the downtown stores saw Mainerz Streetwear reopen on Main Street after a year long restoration project necessitated by a fire that destroyed the original store last summer. Mainerz owners, Jessica and Ella Butz, have rebuilt creating a mini-mall with beautifully designed space for four new stores. Mainerz reopened in one and Real Function Fitness in another. Other expressions of interest have occurred for the other two retail spaces. Upstairs four modern, up-scale apartments have been created and are all rented, even as the finishing paint touches are being put on. Before the paint dries perhaps all eight spaces will be rented. Another store opening saw Duncan Lei of North Central Plumbing and Heating celebrate 50 years in business by opening a brand new retail/service/parts heating

WILL TOMORROW BE A REPLAY OF TODAY?

SALES JOHN GLENNON

ost salespeople want a brighter tomorrow. T hey want more oppor tu n ity, more customers, more business, and of course, more commission. Fortunately, there are numerous things they can do to ensure a brighter tomorrow. So, why a ren’t t hey doi n g them? Why do so many salespeople waste their time making excuses about today rather than invest their time doing something to ensure a more prosperous tomorrow? Perhaps, it’s easier to complain about the current state of the economy and the resulting impact it’s had on the marketplace than it is to actually get out and do something. Some salespeople are quick to

point out that there are fewer opportunities to develop and fewer resources available for attracting new customers. “No one is buying now,” and “No one will take my calls,” they claim. T hey complain about t h e c u t t h ro a t c o m p e t i t i o n with which they have to contend and being “squeezed” by current customers. The list of excuses and complaints is almost endless. They yearn for things to change…to get back to “normal.” If you’re not happy with your current situation, certainly, you can blame the state of the economy. Heck, you can even blame the weather, if you like. But t hat won’t cha nge a nything. If you want tomorrow to b e b r i g h t e r t h a n to d a y, t h i ngs mu st ch a nge…t h at’s t r u e. B ut, t he ch a n ge mu s t start with you. You must put away your fears, your doubts, and your confusion. You must reach down and grab hold of whatever motivation and selfconfidence you have and DO SOMETHING. There are plenty of opportunities…if you have the w i l l to do what needs to be done. A s thei r ma nager what a re you doing? Do you have da i ly, week ly, or monthly meetings that set

definite expectations? Are you guiding their thoughts and behaviours? Does everyone have a “C o o k b o o k” t h a t d i re c t s their behaviour based on their stats and previous performance? Does their “Pay Time” reflect your expectations? In short, are you setting the standards and holding your people accountable? Salespeople can prospect for new customers. You’d be surpr i sed how few sa lespeople a c t u a l ly m a ke pro s p e c t i n g calls. T hey talk about them, but they rarely make them. I can guarantee, “You’ll never have to stand in line to make a cold call.” Are you assigning networking, developing relationships with associations, and working a plan for strategic alliances? As sales manager, do you need to have greater involvement to ensu re you r tea m w i l l be successful? John Glennon is the owner of Insight Sales Consulting Inc, an authorized Sandler Training Licensee. He can be reached at jglennon@sandler. com, toll free at 1-866-645-2047 or visit www.glennon.sandler.com. Copyright 2013 Sandler Training and Insight Sales Consulting Inc. All rights reserved.

store on the Frontage Road. You’re welcomed inside the expansive showroom through a timber-framed entranceway, just past a 10 foot high carved grizzly bear created especially for the new location by JJ’s Woodart. The 50 th Anniversary Celebration and Grand Opening with BBQ took place on August 27th, jaw dropping fireplace sale prices and tons of giveaways. Both MooseFM and CFNR were on location. Also on the horizon is the news that Fields will be returning to open in Smithers, adding to the vibrant retail business scene. Advertising for staff positions is occurring. Fields is a proud recipient of the Rotary “Inclusive Employer” award for exemplifying diversity in the workplace and is ranked amongst the top 100 privately owned companies in BC by Business In Vancouver. Jan Wengelin of Smithers has just been appointed as national Alpine Snowboarding team head coach by Canada Snowboard. Jan’s coaching career has spanned over 30 years, including positions with Canada’s alpine snowboarding team leading up to the 1998 Nagano Winter Olympics, the US alpine snowboarding program, and Alpine Canada. Most recently Jan served as head coach of the revitalized Smithers Ski and Snowboard Club in Smithers, BC. Heather Gallagher is the Manager of the Smithers District Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at heather@smitherschamber. com, or 250.847.5072.

NEWS UPDATE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

proportion of working age population in the region is expected to decline from 67 per cent in 2011 to 60 per cent. The study identifies that local First Nations could help with the labour supply. It reports that local First Nations such as Lax Kw’alaams, Metlakatla and Kitkatla have young populations with many people still unemployed and underemployed. About 43 per cent of this region’s population has Aboriginal identity, compared to 5.4 per cent in all of British Columbia, making the area unique and unlike any other in Canada. The study examined the evolution and origins of the current labour pool in Prince Rupert and Port Edward, the issues impacting labour supply, and the potential sources of labour. A project committee was formed by the Skills Table, BC Maritime Employers Association, and selected employers from Prince Rupert and Port Edward to determine the capacity of the labour supply in the region. The project was managed by the Skills Table and funded by the Government of Canada’s Sectoral Initiatives Program.

BC Province’s Agrifood Sector Sets Sales Record in 2015

Sales of BC agrifood products topped $13 billion for the first time in 2015, growing by more than $700 million for the second consecutive year, and contributing to a $2.5 billion (24%) rise in revenues since 2010. The BC government has been partnering with growers and trading partners to increase markets for BC farmers and food producers, and the benefits of working together are showing results. The growth in sales has occurred across B.C.’s diverse agrifood and seafood sectors with: The primary agriculture sector (farmers, ranchers and producers) up 4.5per cent to $3.1 billion; The seafood sector up 4.7per cent to $867 million; and The food and beverage manufacturing sector up 9.1per cent to $9.1 billion. BC market shares are expanding in part through programs supported by the BC government. The $8-million Buy Local program increases the sales of BC products within the province, while a network of 13 international trade offices, BC trade missions, and innovation and market development funding have all played roles in growing B.C.’s sales across the country and around the world. Increasing production, driving competitiveness, and building markets are three key priorities of the BC Agrifood and Seafood Strategic Growth Plan that has an overall goal of growing the BC agrifoods sector to a $15-billion-a-year industry by 2020.

SEPTEMBER 2016

SCOTTISH VISIONARY LEAVES A LEGACY WITH A VIEW SPOTLIGHT

An iconic hotel, over the past 55 years it has grown to 108 rooms and boasts a lounge where deals are made

R I NC E RU P E R T – It’s not e ver yon e who c a n envision a diamond from the rough. But 55 yea rs ago, William Murray saw a piece of property on a hill overlooking the train tracks and thought it would be the perfect location for a motel. Unfortunately, the bank wasn’t as visionary, at first. With true Scottish tenacity however, Murray managed to raise the funds, build his 44room dream and create a legacy now owned by Gwen Murray, his 94-year-old wife, daughter Tina Smith and son-in-law, Stephen Smith. Today, The Crest Hotel boasts 108 guest rooms and suites, a restaurant deemed by the Vancouver Sun as one of the Top 100 things to do in BC before you die, popular lounge named after Scotland’s Bonnie Prince Charley, fully loaded fitness centre with hot tub and steam sauna, and banquet and meeting rooms. “The Crest is an icon of the North with a Four Star Select rat i ng,” sa id Scott Farwell, who’s been general manager of the hotel for 17 years. He said that over the years the hotel has played host to an eclectic group of guests, from business people in the fishing, forestry and LNG industry to government officials, sport fishers, hunters, and international tour groups. The first hotel in Prince Rupert to offer coloured TV and direct dial telephone service, the Crest has seen a few evolutions over its more than half century history and hit a few bumps along the way. “I started work at the hotel in 1999. Two weeks later, the p u lp m i l l c lo se d d ow n . We

The lobby of the Crest lends that taste of elegance the hotel is known for CREDIT:CREST HOTEL

“One of our top employees just retired after 33 years serving in the restaurant. She worked till she was almost 70 and then retired to Parksville. She still comes to visit us periodically.” SCOTT FARWELL GENERAL MANAGER, THE CREST HOTEL

cont i nued a s best we cou ld by p ut t i n g ou r he ad s dow n and focusing on developing a place of refuge for residents and visitors.” He said that with the closure of the mill the early 2000’s saw a downturn in business, but instead of just working at ma i nta i n i ng busi ness, CEO Steve Smith and son-in-law to Murray, decided to develop it. “We’ve a lways been about relationships,” who said. “So Steve went d i rect to the big tou r operators, l i ke Thomas Cook in London, and spoke to them about the reasons their c l i e nt s s h o u ld v i s it P r i n c e Rupert.” It’s not a hard sell. The natural SEE THE CREST HOTEL | PAGE 17

Congratulations to The Crest Hotel on 55 Years of Success! Cheers!

Scott Farwell has been general manager for 17 years CREDIT:CREST HOTEL

SEPTEMBER 2016

Appetizers and a view as a cruiseship sails into Prince Rupert harbour CREDIT:CREST HOTEL

THE CREST HOTEL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

beauty of the region provides an abundance of possibilities: Humpback, Grey, Minke and O rc a wh a le watch i n g, b e a r viewing at the Khutzeymateen Grizzly Bear Sanctuary, some of the best salmon and halibut fishing in the world, and exploring the many trails and parks, or kayaking the secluded bays and islands, visiting one of the city’s six museums - two

with Trip Advisor’s Certificate of Excellence awards - and participating in cultural tours. L o c a te d o n a p ro m o n to r y overlooking the Prince Rupert Harbour near the cruise ship and ferry terminals, the railroad tracks long gone, the Crest provides stunning ocean and harbour views. “ W hen p e ople lo ok at t he picture of the cruise ship from the restaurant window, they think it’s been photo shopped. It h a sn’t. We’re on ly ab out

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100 feet away from the ships as they sail past on the way to the terminal.” It’s one of the reasons the restaurant is a must-experience. But it isn’t just the view that makes it a favourite place to d i ne. T he i nternationa l a nd Pacific Northwest cuisine prepared by Chef Willy Beaudry and his staff is the other big draw. “Chef Beaudry has been with the hotel for over 20 years and is well know n for producing

high quality dishes that include local and seasonal seafood,” said Farwell. “While you enjoy breakfast you can watch the fish boats unload their catch, the larger ships sail past, and a scuffle of kids walking off the ferry and heading off to school for the day.” W hether at the Waterfront Restaurant, Charley’s Lounge or Crest Café, v isitors enjoy the exotic and cultural, from starter dishes like an artisan loa f w ith melted mozza rel la

and basil or crispy Indian prakasma, mainstays like sea scallops with mango-lime relish and salads that include a signature cowgirl or raincoast combination. Entrees bring on the coastal feel with buttery sweet north coast sable fish, red snapper, Haida Gwaii Halibut cheeks, fishermen’s spaghetti, and an array of turf and burgers and vegetarian meals to get any mouth watering. SEE THE CREST HOTEL | PAGE 18

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SEPTEMBER 2016

Renovations maintain the Crest’s elegance while showcasing stunning vistas CREDIT:CREST HOTEL

Congratulations Crest Hotel! Congratulations to the

Crest Hotel on 55 years of excellence.

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SEPTEMBER 2016

For the Crest Hotel the goal is to create a relaxing refuge for its visitors CREDIT:CREST HOTEL

For a bit of atmosphere and character, Farwell said visitors and locals alike enjoy the offerings at Charley’s Lounge. From t he ow ner’s home cou nt r y, there are displays of kilts patterned with the tartans of the clans that fought for the Bonnie Prince, and closer to home there is locally brewed Wheelhouse beer on tap, Sherwood Mountain brews from Terrace and a list of the best new world wines, including vintages from six local BC vineyards. “Charley’s is and has been a favourite meeting place for locals and visitors,” said Farwell adding with a chuckle that it’s tables have seen more business deals go down than anywhere else in town. With budding development in the north and Prince Rupert acting as a gateway for specific industries, Farwell said that the hotel guest profile has changed in the last couple of years. It s t i l l se e s t he i nter n at ion a l tours coming from places like Jasper and Prince George and also those coming up the inside passage on the ferry, but recent ly it h a s a l so seen a n increase in corporate visitors look i ng for busi ness opportunities in the region as well as those looking at industrial

growth opportunities. “ We a l s o ge t s a l e s p e o p l e coming to town with products to sell, government officials, the coast guard and travel organizations,” he said adding that some of the visitors come to town for business meetings and conferences of all sizes held at the hotel, offering the highest rated and well-equipped facilities in Prince Rupert. The hotel’s atmosphere has also lent itself well to providing a complete wedd i ng ex perience, with elegant locations for b ot h t he wedd i ng ceremony a nd the reception a nd full catering services. It’s no wonder it’s the place to wed, when the backdrop is a stunning panoramic view of ocean, mountains and forest. Farwell said that the secret to the success of the iconic landmark is not just in the location but it’s also the attention to detail the owners and staff put into every aspect of the guest experience. “A n i nter ior desi g ner a nd architect who focus solely on hotel desig n were h i red for ou r renovat ion s,” sa id Fa rwel l. T he rooms add a h i nt of old world elegance with all the amenities of today’s modern conveniences like free Wi

Fi, iPod docks, wall safe and more. T he ro om s a l so c apitalize on the hotel’s location, taking advantage of the views and adding style and panache with soaker tubs looking over the harbour and suites with a fireplace and an Italian marble bathroom with two person jetted tub. The suites even boast an executive granite kitchen with built in appliances, separate living area, Bose sound system, private balcony, LCD T V’s in each room and comfortable beds. “A good night’s sleep is one of the most important things the Crest provides so when we purchased new beds we got the best Serta mattresses on the ma rket. On ly about five per cent of hotels in North America use this level of quality in a bed.” O vera l l, however, Fa r wel l said the most important aspect of the Crest’s success is the staff, some of whom have been serving guests for over 30 years. “ O n e o f o u r t o p e m p l o yees just retired after 33 years serving in the restaurant. She worke d t i l l she wa s a l mos t 70 and then retired to Parksville. She still comes to visit us periodically.”

Farwell stressed that certain ‘people’ skills can’t be taught, they are part of a person’s character, and when the hotel hires it is looki ng for that specia l quality. “ We a re ver y for t u n ate to have a strong core of employees and a low turnover. In this industry that isn’t common. When we find that person who is welcom i ng a nd w i l l i ng to help others, we create a great environment for them to stay.” He also added that the hotel was built on a foundation of

strong morals and integrity. At the time of its construction no contracts were signed; any prom ises a nd com m itments needed between workers and suppl iers were m ade w it h a handshake and then kept. Fa r w e l l s a i d t h e c u r r e n t ow ners a re ca rry ing on that trad ition a nd it’s one of the reasons for the long standing employees and its continued success. The Crest Hotel is at 222 1 st Avenue in Prince Rupert. www.cresthotel.bc.ca

A Big Shout Out & Congratulations to The Crest! Now with 3 Sherwood Brews on Tap

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