Business Examiner Thompson/Okanagan - September 2016 by Business Examiner Media Group

SEPTEMBER 2016

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PENTICTON “Chase Valley Construction a One Stop Shop for Development

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WEST KELOWNA

Moores Returns Home To Kamloops To Ignite Blazers

Location is the

Successful Hockey And Business Career A Perfect Fit For Major Junior Hockey Club

Star Attraction of

BY MARK MACDONALD

New Development Gellatly Place

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INDEX News Update

TOTA 3 Vernon 4 Hiring Guru

Kelowna 5 Kamloops 8 Sales 8 Salmon Arm

Movers and Shakers 18 Opinion 22 Summerland 23 Green Sheet

OUR 8TH YEAR

AMLOOPS – Don Moores is proving that yes, you can go home again. Moores has returned home after a lengthy, successful business career to become the President and Chief Operating Officer of the Western Hockey League’s Kamloops Blazers. He was named to the post in June by club owners Tom Gaglardi (also owner of the National Hockey League Dallas Stars), and former Kamloops juniors and NHL stars Mark Recchi, Shane Doan, Darryl Sydor and Jarome Iginla. That makes it full circle for Moores, who played and coached m i nor a nd ju n ior hockey i n Kamloops. Moores recently sold the company he was partners in, Maxi mu m Yield P ubl icat ions, a Nanaimo-based indoor gardening magazine and event management company that stretched its tentacles from Canada to Australia, New Zealand, Europe, the United Kingdom and the United States. The day after the deal officially

SEE DON MOORES | PAGE 9

President and COO Don Moores is excited about the future of the Kamloops Blazers PHOTO BY MURRAY MITCHELL

High Tech Industries Vital Part Of Okanagan’s Economic Mix Accelerate Okanagan Working To Expand Region’s Tech Sector BY DAVID HOLMES

K Canadian Publications Mail Acct.: 40069240

sold, Moores received a call from Recchi. Moores coached Recchi in Kamloops minor hockey and with the Blazers, and they remain close friends today. A strong candidate for the Hockey Hall of Fame following a long and successful Stanley Cup winning career, Recchi specifically names Moores as one of the major reasons for his long-time NHL success. “I got the call from Mark the day after the Maximum Yield deal was closing, out of the blue,” Moores notes. “He said ‘We need a president. . .would you be interested?’ I then met with majority owner Tom Gaglardi a couple of times and It didn’t take long for me to say yes,” he says. “I wasn’t ready to retire mentally. It’s such a great organization. I know this is the right thing for me to do.” Moores took two and a half months off before rolling up his sleeves with the Blazers, and he’s very pleased with the team that’s already in place. T he Blazers averaged 3,775 fans per game in the 5,200 seat

ELOWNA – Increasingly the Okanagan Valley is becoming the centre of the province’s expanding high tech sector. But that comes as no surprise to the team at Accelerate Okanagan, for them that outcome has always been part of the plan. “Our mandate is

basically to help create new technology businesses throughout the Okanagan,” explained Raghwa Gopal, Accelerate Okanagan’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Essentially an accelerator and support system for new and expanding high tech firms, Accelerate Okanagan was created about six years ago when two earlier

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organizations, OSTEC (Okanagan Science and Technology Council) and ORIC (Okanagan Research and Innovation Council) were merged into one. The organization’s coverage area extends from Osoyoos in the south to Salmon Arm in the north. Offering a range of services and programs (but not funding)

Accelerate Okanagan’s Mission Statement is straightforward: To give new and growing businesses in the technology industry the mentorship, connections and community they need to succeed. “In a way you’d have to say we’re a hybrid, in that we have incubation SEE ACCELERATE OKANAGAN | PAGE 20

NEWS UPDATE

2 KELOWNA

KELOWNA

Local Mobile Learning Platform Gains Funding

OK College & Toyota Technical College Celebrate 25 Year Partnership

Mathtoons Media Inc. (Mathtoons) has announced funding from Kelowna based community funding company Community Futures for the “continued growth and expansion” of Mathtoons Rapid Mobile Micro-Learning software platform called Practi. Practi provides a 360-degree, competency based rapid mobile micro-learning solution that can be accessed from any mobile device anywhere, including within a non wi-fi/ flight-mode environment, converting existing traditional training material into rapid learning format with full analytics of ‘expert’ learning. Community Futures Development Corporation is pleased to support Mathtoons with the expansion of Practi. In its early stages, Practi has already generated significant interest globally, including from large Canadian and US companies in areas such as airlines, utilities, health care organisations, Fortune100 companies, municipalities, and entertainment and media organisations seeking to transition to mobile learning for their rapidly changing workforces. Kristin Garn, CEO, founded Mathtoons Media in 2011, designing and building software which enabled the rapid learning and retention of math knowledge for higher education. In 2015, Kristin identified a niche market within the ever expanding Mobile MicroLearning corporate sector (currently a $10 Billion industry, with a forecast of a 36.3 per cent growth per year up to 2020) and has built a team of highly motivated and specialised professionals based in Kelowna and across Canada. Kristin Garn is known as a true entrepreneur and has been recognised by the Canadian Trade Commission as a top female tech CEO and a member of the Crowe MacKay’s Women to Watch program.

Twenty-five years ago the first students from Toyota Technical College arrived at Okanagan College to embark on a summer program of collision repair training and learning English. It planted the seed for a relationship that would blossom to span oceans, cultures, and decades. This year a record 110 students from the Japanese institution are completing the program, bringing the total to more than 1,000 participants since the program began in 1992. On Friday, Toyota Technical College President Kazunori Ikeyama joined Okanagan College President Jim Hamilton in congratulating students and the passionate instructors and sanseis who have helped to grow the program. Five years ago the two presidents celebrated the program’s 20th anniversary (and 700 students through the program) by planting a Japanese Cherry tree – or Sakura – at the Kelowna campus. The tree serves as a year-round reminder of the friendship between the two institutions.

KELOWNA Haven Villas Sales Launching Soon Haven Villas is an upcoming boutique gated community of 12 homes located near the Shannon Lake Golf Course, West Kelowna’s only full length golf course. The developer, Kitsch Construction, a Kelowna-based, family owned company, has a long history in the construction industry, building everything from roads and airports to water treatment plants in both Canada and the Caribbean. Locally, they’re known for their 10,000 square foot family home known as The Granite Chateau that sits atop the Kitsch Wines vineyard. Haven Villas’ floor plans have just been released for the 3 bedroom town homes that will range from 1676-1760 square feet. Standout

SEPTEMBER 2016

features include rooftop patios with outdoor gas fireplaces and two of the 12 units will have unfinished basements, making them comparable in square footage to many detached homes in the area. Each home boasts luxury interior and exterior finishes and styling by Sticks + Stones Design Group Inc. Haven Villas is expected to appeal to a wide range of buyers from young families who will enjoy the security and comfort of a gated community to baby boomers who are easing into retirement yet looking to remain active. With the current state of the housing market in the Okanagan, Fortune Marketing, the agency hired for sales and marketing coordination of the development, anticipates rapid sales. Construction is slated to begin in 2016 with sales starting soon. The sales centre will operate out of the Fortune Marketing Sales Gallery at 305 Lawrence Ave in downtown Kelowna. Interested parties are urged to come to the Advance Viewing Event held at the Fortune Marketing Real Estate Gallery on Thursday, August 25th from 4-6pm followed by a site tour at 2331 Tallus Ridge Drive, West Kelowna at 6:30.

day where aspiring animators and artists can have face time with world-class animation schools, studio recruiters and industry professionals; and an animation marketplace. Each year, OkIFA will feature a different artistic director. Executive Director Anne Denman recently announced that highly respected animation icon Danny Antonucci has accepted the role as the festival’s inaugural Artistic Director. OkIFA’s Platinum Sponsors are the Centre for Arts and Technology and Toon Boom. Capilano University has signed on as a Gold Sponsor. The Silver Sponsors to date are: AWN, Roketto, Okanagan Film Commission, Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission, Westcorp, The Trophy Den, Source Office Furnishings, Canadian Animation Resources and Creative BC. Set for its inaugural event, from October 2 – 6, 2017, the Okanagan International Festival of Animation will celebrate the many forms of animation and digital media from around the world, with a special focus on Canada and the U.S. The festival will quickly become the event of the year for animation and digital media professionals and fans from around the world.

KELOWNA

OKANAGAN

International Animation Festival Coming to the Okanagan

New Atrium Ventures Fund Focused on Start-up Growth

The Okanagan International Festival of Animation (OkIFA) is an annual five-day animation and digital media festival, market and conference set to launch from October 2 – 6, 2017, in Kelowna. This exciting new event will offer animated and digital media screenings that include independent and larger budget productions, blockbusters, commissioned and non-commissioned films, and student work. These screenings will be interwoven with a range of events including opening and closing galas; an awards ceremony; a Nuit Blanche where the cultural hub of Kelowna will be lit up from dusk to the early morning, offering our visitors a unique glimpse of Kelowna’s diverse cultural section in its beautiful urban core; a career

High tech entrepreneurs will be getting a jumpstart with the introduction of Atrium Ventures VCC Inc.(Atrium), a $5,000,000 investment fund dedicated to nurturing early stage companies in BC’s redhot technology sector. It’s what fund manager Jeff Keen, Director of Wheelhouse Management Inc., describes as a “pre-seed/seed stage fund” that will target promising technology ventures looking to secure equitybased growth capital. Anchored by commitments of $1,000,000 from the Southern Interior Development Initiative Trust (SIDIT), $750,000 from Interior Savings Credit Union and a growing list of forward-thinking angel investors, Atrium aims to

fill a critical gap for early stage tech startups looking to raise equity capital. The provincial government seems to agree that early stage funding is an important element in the health of this burgeoning industry. As a VCC established through BC’s Investment Capital Branch, Atrium investors will receive a 30 per cent refundable provincial tax credit at tax time. Atrium is a fund created by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs. Keen, a long-time technology entrepreneur and former CEO of Accelerate Okanagan, fund co-founder Lane Merrifield, former Executive Vice President of the Walt Disney Company and co-founder of FreshGrade, along with other fund investors will bring much more than money to startup companies. Why has the fund gained such traction with angel investors? The opportunity to pool investment funds with experienced tech entrepreneurs who will provide screening and due diligence gives the fund solid footing. Combine that with making several small investments in a wide range of companies and the appeal of the tax credit and Atrium significantly de-risks involvement for its investors. In terms of what types of companies Atrium will target, the baseline is whether or not the company qualifies as an Eligible Business Corporation (EBC) under the Small Business Venture Capital Act. But other factors are the true litmus test for potential recipients. “We’re looking for three fundamental qualities,” says Keen, “a high-calibre team with a balanced skill set and an opportunity that is ideally at the minimum viable product (MVP) stage working towards product market fit. “Finally, when we assess the expertise on the Atrium team and our network of contacts and resources, is there a match that will benefit the founders and help accelerate the growth of their business?” Atrium is actively raising additional capital with a planned second closing on October 17, 2016. Interested institutions and individuals can express their interest by contacting Atrium at contact@ atrium.vc. Following the closing, Atrium will be sourcing investment

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TOTA

SEPTEMBER 2016

RUTLAND

CENTURY 21 Assurance Realty Ltd. presently has about 55 agents and is in the enviable position of being the #17 office within the CENTURY 21 Canada system of almost 400 offices.

Century 21 Opens New Okanagan Office

SALMON ARM

This fall, CENTURY 21 Assurance Realty Ltd will be opening a sub-office on Highway 33 in Rutland. “We are very excited to be the first ‘brand name’ real estate company to have an office in Rutland. We view Rutland as a vibrant community unto itself and we look forward to being part of that. Several of our agents live in Rutland and they are excited to be able to work in their own neighbourhood,” says Myrna Park, partner and managing broker. Interestingly enough, the location, 125 Hwy 33 W, is the former location of CENTURY 21 Black Mountain Realty, about twenty years ago. “With today’s technology, our on site administrators will be able to do the work they would usually do in our Harvey Avenue location, just north of the bridge. Again, they are looking forward to working closer to home,” adds Park. Layton Park, partner and former commercial contractor, will be coordinating the renovation. “We are hoping to use as many Rutland suppliers as possible. Fortunately, the renovations are primarily cosmetic.”

UBCO Partnership focused on Recycling Environmental Contaminants UBC is partnering with a BC company to turn soil contaminants into household products. As part of the partnership, UBC Okanagan chemist Susan Murch will work with Passive Remediation Systems Ltd. (PRS) to find ways to pull natural and industrial chemicals out of vegetation that is being used to remediate a decommissioned landfill in Salmon Arm, BC. “We are committed to creating jobs and products in a way that is respectful of the planet and the people who live on it,” says PRS’ David Derbowka. “We look forward to working with UBC to find new ways to turn materials that are currently thought of as waste into something useful.” The project involves 1,100 poplar trees planted at the Columbia Shuswap Regional District landfill in 2011. The trees act as a sponge, drawing chemicals out of the ground, and UBC will be looking at ways to extract the chemicals absorbed by the

poplars so they can be recycled. UBC researchers will attempt to extract the chemicals through pyrolysis—essentially steaming the chemicals out of the harvested poplar material—and separating the chemicals from the liquid “wood vinegar” that the process produces. Murch expects to draw out a number of different kinds of chemicals, from varnish to household cleaners, which can then be reused. “There was a time when the chemicals that ended up in landfills were thought of as waste and were left to settle in the natural environment,” says Murch. “We’re looking to put chemistry to work on a bio-recycling system that pulls chemicals out of organic materials and allows those chemicals to be reused.” The research project is funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.

BC Province Extends Canada-BC Job Grant with $9.6M in New Funds The Province of British Columbia now has $9.6 million in Canada-BC Job Grant funding available to help employers provide skills training to current or new employees. Employers and organizations SEE NEWS UPDATE | PAGE 8

ROUTE 97 TOURING PROGRAM UPDATE

THOMPSON OKANAGAN TOURISM GLENN MANDZIUK

n partnership with the North Central Washington Economic Development District, the Route 97 Touring program continues to expand with the recent launch of the blog featuring tourism experiences from around the region. Key highlights include the Farm to Table Culinary video of CedarCreek Estate Winery Chef Jeremy Tucker; Flyboarding in Kelowna with Canadian Jetpack Adventures just to name a couple. Social media activity continues to grow with paid campaigns driving traffic to the new website to create awareness of the travel routes and corridors of Route 97. New this month is the Route 97 sign at the Thompson Okanagan

Visitor Centre where visitors can now view the map and find all social media handles when on the road. The new digital program provides an opportunity for stakeholders in both North Central Washington and the Thompson Okanagan region to have their ow n ded icated web page on Route97.net. The print guide and map were distributed to Visitor Centres for 2016 and we are out of stock! Stakeholders can be part of the guide for 2017, which also includes the digital bundle. Website features include a new interactive map that highlights each road trip and special places to visit! T he Route 97 Touring Prog ra m promotes the a reas of North Central Washington including the Okanagan, Chelan and Douglas Counties and the Thompson Okanagan Region including Kelowna, Kamloops, Okanagan Corridor, Boundary Country, Similkameen Valley, Shuswap, North Thompson Valley and Gold Country. Glenn Mandziuk is President and Chief Executive Officer of Thompson Okanagan Tourism Region. He can be reached at ceo@totabc.com.

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Okanagan College can deliver your training where and when you need it. Connect with us today to find out how we can work with you to grow your greatest asset – your people. The Okanagan College facilitators were keen, prepared and engaging. They ensured that they developed and consequently delivered a tailor-made Supervisory and Leadership program that fully addressed and satisfied our organizational needs. - Pauline Terbasket Executive Director, Okanagan Nation Alliance Please call Angela at 250-317-7670 or email apomeroy@okanagan.bc.ca to schedule your free needs assessment today.

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opportunities with a target of making a minimum of 20 investments over the next 24 months.

VERNON

SEPTEMBER 2016

VERNON’S 2ND ANNUAL 20 UNDER 40 COMING IN OCTOBER Starting in mid-September twenty recipients will be announced over the course of four weeks and will be featured on the KPMG Top 20 Under 40

VERNON

website

DAN ROGERS

t may be a great time to relax and enjoy the summer sun in the Okanagan but there is no slowing down for the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber is teaming up with KPMG to bring the 2 nd Annual Top 20 Under 40 Awards to the North Okanagan. This initiative is looking for young professionals under the age of 40 years of age who are making their mark through business success and community involvement. The program will also feature something new this year, as it will recognize up to five Rising Stars, those who are under the age of 30 and have already made an impact in business. “The region is fortunate to have many young professionals and entrepreneurs who are rapidly becoming our next leaders and it’s important for us as a community to recognize and foster their development,” says Murray Smith, partner with KPMG’s office in Vernon. “KPMG is proud to sponsor this program and to recognize the many individuals who are making a positive impact in the

Greater Vernon area.” Starting in mid-September twenty recipients will be announced over the course of four weeks and will be featured on the KPMG Top 20 Under 40 website. The recipients will also be honoured at a special recognition event on Thursday October 20th during Small Business Week. “Recognizing some of the talented young professionals in the region has multiple benefits,” says Tracy CobbReeves, GVCC president. “It’s important for our community to know the calibre of talent we have and what they are doing to sustain and grow our region. It can also encourage investment and attract other talented professionals to our community. ”

If you know a resident of the Greater Vernon area who is excelling in their career, passionate about the community, helping to raise the profile of the Greater Vernon area, and will be under the age of 40 as of the end of this year, then they are a perfect candidate. Nominees can be entrepreneurs, executives, managers, or professionals in public, private, or not-for-profit sectors. For more information you can check out: www.20under40vernon.ca. ••• The other major event that is in the works for this fall is the second annual Chamber Golf Classic scheduled for October 6th. Participants and sponsors for the networking event are now being finalized with a few spots still open. Anyone interested in having a blast while building their network should contact the Chamber office. ••• In other news, the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting is fast approaching

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of employers rate workers with intellectual disabilities or Autism Spectrum Disorder as GOOD TO VERY GOOD on performance Inclusive Hiring Works www.readywillingable.ca

Dan Rogers is the General Manager at the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce and can be reached at manager@vernonchamber.ca.

CUSTOMER RETENTION: METHOD OR MAGIC?

LUCY GLENNON

75%

marking the end of the term for another President. Tracy Cobb Reeves of Kal Tire joins a long list of dedicated Chamber Presidents who have worked tirelessly to improve the business environment in the area since the Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce (previously known as the Vernon Board of Trade) was founded in 1897. The AGM is scheduled for Tuesday Oct. 4th and it will include elections to the board. The Board is of course made up of volunteers who are passionate about what they do and eager to see economic growth and greater prosperity for the region. ••• Finally the Chamber is pleased to welcome its newest members; Spine & Sport Physiotherapy, Bosman Accounting, Picnic Bakery & Catering, and Doug Cuthbert ReMax Real Estate.

t ’s a g e n e r a l l y a ccepted notion that acquiring a new customer is more expensive than retaining an existing customer. Add to that fact a sluggish economy where busi nesses a re scrutinizing budgets and considering alternative suppliers, and it’s easy to u ndersta nd why it’s important to have a customer retention strategy in place. A fter all, current customers (as well as past customers) have already demonstrated that they want and are willing to pay for your products and services. It makes good sense to hold on to them. Doing so is crucial to the g row t h a nd success of your business. A sales g uru once described a five-step magical process for customer retention. The five steps are: 1) Follow Up; 2) Follow Up; 3) Follow Up; 4) Follow Up; and (you guessed it) 5) Follow Up. O K , t h e r e ’s n o t h i n g magical, or even remarkable, about the process. I suppose the guru was trying to drive home the point that if you don’t want your

customers to drift away, then, in addition to normal buyer-seller interactions, you shou ld maintain regular contact with them throughout the year. Makes good sense. But simply “following up” is not enough. T he real “magic” is how, when, and in what manner you maintain contact. Making monthly “keep-in-touch” phone calls is not sufficient. So, let’s look at five follow-up strategies you can implement to cultivate a closer relationship with your customers. 1. Send a “Thank You” card to new clients. (Yes, a card…not an e-mail.) An elaborate pre-printed card with a foil-stamped company logo isn’t necessary… or desired. A simple card with your hand-written message, “I look forward to working with you. Please don’t hesitate to contact me for any reason,” is all that’s needed. Make sure to include your cell phone number and e-mail address. 2. At regular intervals, send to your customers a printed copy of your company’s newsletter, or an article or white paper that is relevant to their businesses or industries. Add a h a nd-w r it ten note— “Thought you’d find this interesting.” 3. Send birthday cards to your customers. (You do know their birthdays, don’t you?) Again, no elaborate card with a company logo or imprint. A simple birthday card with your handwritten note, “Enjoy your day,” is sufficient. 4. Send i n formation

about new products or services to your customers. Add a handwritten call-toaction note. For example, “Let’s discuss. I’ll call on Tuesday at 10am.” 5. Send customers printed copies of articles relevant to their personal interests. (Yes, you should know someth i ng about your clients’ personal interests.) And, as you’ve a l ready g uessed, add a personal note like, “Saw this in the Business Journal…thought you’d like to have it.” The underlying theme is: communicate in a personal manner. Most salespeople are so focused on their work that they don’t take enough time to meet with, talk to, and listen to their customers. Much of their communication takes place in a most impersonal manner—via email. While that’s a valid means of communication for day-to-day business interactions, there’s little room for it in a customer retention program. Little things that you do throughout the year remind your customers that you are thinking about them and you care about and appreciate their business. Customers who feel appreciated are much less likely to jump ship when your competitors come knocking at their doors. Lucy specializes in customer service training and recruitment and hiring. She can be reached at 866-6452047 or lucyg@hireguru.com. www.hireguru.ca.

KELOWNA

SEPTEMBER 2016

AN ECONOMIC ROUND-UP FOR SEPTEMBER In BC, again, the forecast is that we will lead the country in 2016 and 2017 in GDP, with our booming domestic economy and our red-hot housing market. Annual gains? In the 3 per cent

KELOWNA

range

TOM DYAS

s September opens, it’s timely to look at the economic predictors for the fall and winter for BC and Kelowna, and for Canada. Much of the data is encouraging for our province. With thanks to my sources, I’ll synopsize here what I’ve found most engaging in my economic reading over the past few weeks. First of all, the Bank of Canada’s July 13 announcement of maintaining its target overnight rate of 0.5 per cent, its Bank Rate of 0.75 per cent and its deposit rate of 0.25 per cent. Stable. The next rate will be announced within a few days on September 7. The Bank calls our economy “complex” – inflation still below 2 per cent but likely to go back up in 2017. The next number I always look for is GDP (gross domestic product): globally, the projections are down slightly (2.9 per cent in 2016; 3.3 per cent in 2017 and 3.5 per cent in 2018). Causes: a slightly weaker US economy the first half of this year, plus Brexit, equal a bit of re-pricing. Again, the changes are slight, and mostly stable. In Canada real GDP grew a bit in the first quarter, and dipped a bit in the second quarter. Drilling down to BC and Alberta GDP, the Alberta wildfires mean negative GDP throughout 2016 for our neighbour, but with an outlook for greater than usual growth in 2017 when the rebuilding efforts really kick in. In BC, again, the forecast is that we will lead the country in 2016 and 2017 in GDP, with our booming domestic economy and our red-hot housing market. Annual gains? In the 3 per cent range. Federal infrastructure spending and other March federal budget measures continue to contribute to growth in the last half of 2016 for us here in the Okanagan. Oil prices are always worth a monthly scan. Early 2016 predictions included a global rise: however, crude eased to about $45/ barrel in August as global supply grew and demand weakened. Continuing slowing in prices is now forecast, according to the International Energy Agency. Weak demand and low prices for natural gas, and uncertainties surrounding major liquefied natural gas (LNG) projects will continue to dampen capital investment. Much of the focus in the media this summer has been on housing: new rules, inventory, a seller’s market – we’ve all seen the headlines. At this point, predictions are that “the good times will continue.” Sales prices continue to rise, and in Kelowna, “Buyers from the Okanagan continue to be the largest purchasing group – 55 to 60 per cent of total buyers average over six years of tracking” according to the President of the Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board (OMREB) earlier in August.

are the changing demographics of home buyers: local buyers who will go on to purchase renovation services, appliances, furniture and other home-related products from local businesses. Fully 24 per cent of buyers are now single females or single males; another quarter is two-parent families with children; couples (24 per cent) and empty nesters/ retirees at 20 per cent. All good information as local businesses plan their product inventory buying for 2017. Finally, there is the labour market, and the export market. Certainly, our staff at the Chamber have been kept busy this summer helping members with their Certificates of Origin for offshore shipments of lumber, produce and wine, particularly fresh cherries. This activity peaks in July and August, and is a service provided free of charge to Chamber members in good standing. (Certificates cost $75 per document for non-members.) As to the labour market, while BC’s labour market continued to generate jobs – again leading Canada in job creation and economic growth – most of that employment growth was in the lower mainland, and in part-time employment. Numbers are high, but would be even higher, if it weren’t for the continuing in-migration from other parts of Canada into BC as job seekers seek higher ground. The Alberta economy continues to impact employment growth in the Okanagan where we were steady/negative at -2.8 per cent. As an aside, the Central Okanagan Economic Development Commission completed its “professional” business walks

in July (they conduct business walks with Chamber participation throughout the year). Not surprisingly, given our economy this summer, every one of the 57 professional services firms surveyed were happy with their business. “Usually with our Business Walk interviews, 80 to 90 per cent of the companies are positive about current conditions and the future,” said Corie Griffiths of the COEDC, which runs the Business Walk program. In the third week of August, Manufacturing was the focus of the “Business Walk”. The in-person survey is examining the human resources needs of about 50 manufacturing companies in our region. I’ll close with four highlights from a new forecast from Central 1 Credit Union for BC for the next three years: • Strong economic growth will continue through 2018 • Unemployment rate will decline from the current six per cent to below five per cent by 2018 • Provincial population will grow as more people move to the West Coast from other provinces • International tourism is up due to the low dollar and will continue to grow Welcome to fall everyone – I’ll see some of you soon at a Chamber event as our fall events schedule shifts into high gear. Tom Dyas is the President of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce. To find out more information about the organization please visit www.kelownachamber.org.

KAMLOOPS, B.C. This comment was of course, in response to the quickly passed legislation taxing offshore buyers purchasing real estate in the lower mainland (15 per cent). The tax has hit immigrating families from the US and Europe, as well as from Asia and has been a headline-grabber nationally throughout August. Chinese demand for all things Canadian remains strong, with new opportunities in agribusiness and tourism. Beijing has boosted the Canadian tourism industry, especially in the last two years. Canadian hospitality and its natural beauty are key draws for Chinese tourists. Canada’s multicultural makeup facilitates greater tourism from China: Chinese Canadians are 4.5 per cent of the population (2011 Census) compared to 1.2 per cent for the U.S. This simplifies language and cultural issues, builds on existing connections, decreases prejudice, and facilitates a greater understanding of the spending habits of Chinese tourists. Canada even has – despite being further away – a higher proportion of Chinese residents than Australia (4 per cent) – a testament to Canadian openness and cosmopolitanism. This number will be markedly higher for the 2016 census, and these ethno-cultural links, combined with a low Canadian dollar, provide many opportunities to strengthen tourism links. (from Global Risks Insights) Could the new 15 per cent tax come to Kelowna and damp down our housing market? It’s possible, says OMREB. More interesting to our local business people

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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 per cent of all serious injuries and 26 work-related deaths. In the past five years, there have been over 5,800 fall-related injuries in the construction industry — making them the third most frequent incident in BC construction workplaces today. Through the help and dedic a t io n of t h e c o n s t r u c t io n 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 ung u a rded sc a f fold i ng, of f of roofs, a nd as a resu lt 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 l i kely to fol low su it i n 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 I f y o u’re a t ra d e s p e r s o n , supervisor, safety officer or sa fet y c om m it te e mem b er,

contractor, or supplier in the construction industry, this oneday safety workshop is for you. Learn from industry experts about fall 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.

Fall prevention workshop for construction Who should attend? If you are a tradesperson, supervisor, safety officer, safety committee member, contractor, or supplier in the construction industry, this oneday safety workshop is for you. Learn from industry experts about fall prevention solutions through hands-on experience.

Safety sessions

Doors open at 7 a.m. Space is limited, so register today

• Responsibilities for fall prevention in the construction industry

Where?

• Fall protection planning and procedures

Okanagan College, 1000 KLO Road, Kelowna, B.C.

• Ladders and scaffolding in construction

Four hands-on practical sessions

How to register Go to www.bccsa.ca/fallsworkshop

• Planning for safety — scenarios and written plans

Cost

• Fall protection equipment — selection and inspection

$25 + GST (lunch included)

• Fall protection options — from anchors to horizontal lifelines

for more information

• Ladder and scaffold safety — from selection to inspection

Visit the news & events page on worksafebc.com

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KAMLOOPS/SALES

CONNECT WITH KAMLOOPS BUSINESSES SEPTEMBER 21ST

KAMLOOPS DEB MCLELLAND

eptember is ubiqu itous w i t h b a c k p a c k s , f re s h notebooks, full schedules and the common phrase, “getting back to the grind”. And it’s not just moms and dads who are gearing up for the beginning of fall. For many businesses, the long lazy days of summer can have them taking a step back from their busy days to enjoy a bit of extra rest, leaving September as the time to “get back into the swing of things.” Here at the Kamloops Chamber, that is definitely true for us. The summer months bring quieter phone lines, cleaner inboxes and fewer events as many of our members enjoy the summer sun. But come September, we are geared up and ready to go. In fact, our calendar is jam packed with events from now until the end of

December, which you can check out on our online events calendar at kamloopschamber.ca/events. One of those many events, back by popular demand, is our annual CONNECT Tradeshow – the only business tradeshow of its kind in Kamloops. This year we are expecting over 400 attendees at this 19+ event, which is open to the public and free to attend. We have over 60 exhibitors, a cash bar and over 70 prizes to be won, including a $500 gift card to Aberdeen Mall! Make sure you come and visit us at the Coast Kamloops Hotel, from 4PM – 7PM on Wednesday September 21st, to connect to some local businesses and enter to win some great prizes. ••• Speaking of tradeshows – as a business person there is a good chance you have either attended at least one tradeshow during your career or have been an exhibitor at one. As an exhibitor, this type of event provides a fantastic opportunity to build your client base with new or potential customers, and to build important connections with other businesses that you could partner with in the future. However, if not done properly, they can be frustrating and seem like a waste of time – leaving you idly sitting at your booth hoping

someone might take interest in one of your many f lyers, and dreaming of lying on a beach somewhere. If that sounds familiar, or if you have found your exhibiting experience frustrating in the past, we have created a video to help. Tradeshow Suck-cess is a condensed version of our Tradeshow Success seminar, providing you with all that useful information in a fun and engaging five-minute video that is sure to leave you with some great tips for your next exhibiting experience. Check it out day at kamloopschamber.ca! ••• In other exciting news, we are currently hiring! The Kamloops Chamber is looking for a Member Relations Coordinator to join our fun and dynamic team. If you are a motivated team- player who loves good conversation and selling in a friendly manner, check out the job posting at kamloopschamber.ca and submit your resume and cover letter to Deb McClelland (contact information listed below). The deadline to apply is September 16th 2016. Deb McClelland is the executive director of the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached email at deb@kamloopschamber.ca.

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? S a l e s p e opl e c a n p ro s p e c t for new customers. You’d be surprised how few salespeople 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.

SEPTEMBER 2016

NEWS UPDATE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

acting on behalf of employers can apply now for skills training funding with start dates between Oct. 1, 2016, and Dec. 31, 2016. Allocation of the total $9.6-million investment is as follows: $5.6 million in funding is available to eligible employers and organizations under the Priority Sectors stream. $1 million is available to eligible employers and organizations to train individuals within the Underrepresented Groups stream. $2 million is available for eligible employers wishing to train and hire unemployed British Columbians under the Unemployed stream: The Canada-B.C. Job Grant is an employer-driven, cost-sharing partnership between the federal and provincial governments as well as employers. Governments provide two-thirds of the total training cost for an employee up to $10,000 per person to offset the cost of training, with the employer contributing one-third of the cost of training. Eligible costs include tuition and training fees, mandatory student fees, textbooks, software and other required training materials, and examination fees. Meanwhile, almost 200 small businesses throughout the province have taken advantage of new resources at Small Business BC that make it easier to apply for Canada-B.C. Job Grant funding since the launch of a partnership between the provincial government and Small Business BC on June 7. Offering personalized advisers to help navigate the Canada-B.C. Job Grant application system through Small Business BC is another way the Province is supporting small businesses by making it easier for the sector to access government programs.

BC Province Invests in Climate Action for Local Governments Community, Sport and Cultural Development Minister Peter Fassbender has announced that communities throughout British Columbia will share over $6.4 million in grants from the B.C. government’s Climate Action Revenue Incentive Program (CARIP). “The Climate Action Revenue Incentive Program continues to reward local governments for supporting British Columbia’s Climate Action Charter and helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” he says. “Thank you to all the participants in this successful program, as well as all the local governments that made submissions to the Climate Leadership Plan.” CARIP is a conditional grant program that provides funding to B.C. local governments which signed the Climate Action Charter and commit to report publicly on their progress toward meeting their climate action goals. Local governments receive a CARIP

grant equivalent to the full amount of direct carbon tax they pay in a year. Since 2008, CARIP has granted over $39 million to B.C. local governments to help support communities in their efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and work toward Climate Action Charter goals.

BC Feds Launch Financial Sector Review Consultation Confidence in a strong and wellfunctioning financial sector is critical when it comes to ensuring an economy that works for the middle class and those working hard to join it. Canadians expect their government to review and monitor the financial sector so that it remains stable and efficient and meets their evolving needs. Building on Budget 2016’s commitment to extend the sunset date for federal financial sector legislation and regulations by two years, the Department of Finance Canada has announced the launch of the first of a two-stage consultation process on the federal financial sector legislative and regulatory framework. While Canada has a highly regarded and well-functioning financial sector, it is an industry that is continuously evolving to meet the changing needs of its clients and find new ways to provide financial services to Canadians. In this context, it is important to consult with Canadians on the legislative and regulatory framework that governs the sector. The consultations will help maintain and advance a financial sector legislative and regulatory framework that supports: Stability: the financial sector is safe and sound, and resilient in the face of stress. Efficiency: the financial sector provides competitively priced products and services and passes efficiency gains to customers, accommodates innovation, and effectively contributes to economic growth. Utility: the financial sector meets the needs of an array of consumers, including businesses, individuals and families, and is committed to protecting the interests of consumers. Individuals or organizations interested in submitting their views are invited to review the consultation document at: http://www.fin. gc.ca/activty/consult/ssge-sefceng.asp. Submissions will inform the development of a policy paper for the second stage of the consultation process in 2017. Written comments should be forwarded by November 15, 2016 to LegislativeReview-ExamenLegislatif@canada.ca.

SEE NEWS UPDATE | PAGE 10

OFF THE COVER

SEPTEMBER 2016

DON MOORES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Kamloops Interior Savings Coliseum, so there are some seats to fill. “We’ve got some really good people on our staff, and they just needed a framework to work within. That’s what I will do,” he says. More than anything – including dotting the roster with local players – the experience of going to a game is the most important ingredient for a successful junior hockey franchise. Successful junior hockey is all about “a strong product on the ice and the experience of going to a game,” he notes. “It’s about coming to the game and having fun. That’s really what works best. It’s family entertainment, where they can come and enjoy the game and keep coming back. We want them to be able to say: ‘I can’t wait to get to another game’.” Moores notes that the Blazers had the youngest team in the WHL last year, yet still pushed the powerhouse Kelowna Rockets to Game 7 in the first round of last season’s playoffs. “We have one of the best goalies in Canada,” Moores says, noting goalie Connor Ingram is expected to be given a long look for Canada’s National Junior team this year. “I have great hopes for the

Moores notes that the Blazers had the youngest team in the WHL last year, yet still pushed the powerhouse Kelowna Rockets to Game 7 in the first round of last season’s playoffs

hockey side.” Moores has complete confidence in GM Stu McGregor, whom he says “is one of the best GM’s around. And Don Hay. . .is there a better junior coach in Canada?” Moores will oversee business, i.e. off-ice operations. Long-time friend Hay is a junior hockey legend, and Moores is grateful to have him coaching

the team. Moores was an assistant coach with Hay under Ken Hitchcock, who left Kamloops for a long and distinguished NHL coaching career, and announced 2016-17 would be his last as head coach of the St. Louis Blues. Hay also had NHL coaching stints, as head coach of the Calgary Flames and Phoenix Coyotes and an assistant with the Anaheim Ducks, and has coached three Memorial Cup championship teams in Kamloops (two) and Vancouver Giants, as well as leading Canada to World Junior Championship gold in 1995 and a bronze medal in 2012. A former K a m loops M i nor Hockey player and coach, Moores played junior for the Kamloops Chiefs in the former Western Canada Junior Hockey League and was drafted in 1976 by the NHL’s Los Angeles Kings (3rd round, 49th overall) and the San Diego Mariners of the World Hockey Association. He played professional hockey in the International Hockey League for the Muskegon Mohawks and Saginaw Gears before returning to Kamloops to work in the newspaper business. Moores had his first taste of junior coaching with the Vernon Lakers of the BC Hockey League. The team’s then owner Carl Enemark fired his son before hiring Moores, who quickly turned the team around and had them

playoff bound. The next season, Moores had Vernon battling for first place before the owner fired him, completely unexpectedly, and Enemark replaced him with his son again. “There’s nothing worse than getting fired from something you love to do,” Moores said, although he notes that sometimes in life, when one door closes, another opens. T wo days later, H itchcock c a l led a nd a sked i f Mo ores would join him as an assistant coach with the Blazers in the league above, which he did from 1987-90. “I was part of the committee that got the Coliseum built,” Moores recalls. “At the time, people were saying ‘who is going to fill 5,200 seats?’ Within two years, the Coliseum was expanded up to 5,456 to keep up with demand, and the building has seen its share of sellouts since.” The arena has been a tremendous success, housing not only Memorial Cup tournaments and the World Juniors, but national curling championships and other major curling and entertainment events. P r i o r to M a x i m u m Y i e l d , Moores had an 18-year career with Black Press, including serving as President of the Black Press South, with a territory stretching from Cranbrook to Kitimat. He

9 also served as President of Prairie Operations and Publisher in Red Deer, Alberta and Director of Sales and Marketing in Honolulu, Hawaii. His hockey and business backg rou nd is ex pected to bri ng dividends on and off the ice, acknowledging there are some key differences from now to when he was last involved. In the “glory years” of the Blazers, General Manager Bob Brown was credited with assembling an almost unparalleled pipeline of talent. Some point to the departure of Brown, now a scout for the Edmonton Oilers (Moores’ brother Bill was a long-time Oilers assistant coach and Director of Player Development), as the beginning of the decline of the team’s traditional winning ways. Moores is quick to point out that more than that, the introduction of the WHL’s Bantam-age draft meant Kamloops scouts no longer held an edge over competitors for securing top-end talent for the team. “There was no draft back then,” Moores says. “If you were from BC or Alberta, who didn’t want to play for the Blazers?” Moores is betting that the right ingredients for success are in place for this version of the Blazers, which hopes to build on last season’s move forward. www.blazerhockey.com

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SEPTEMBER 2016

‘BIKE FOR YOUR LIFE’ BRINGS COMMUNITY TOGETHER SICA Commercial Building Awards

SALMON ARM CORRYN GRAYSTON

he 2016 Bike for Your Life Century Ride takes place on Saturday, September 17 th at 9:00 am. Join in the fun of a community bike ride on the scenic back roads of the Shuswap – North Okanagan. Challenge yourself or ride with family & friends. Four routes highlight the area’s scenic beauty and are designed to be safe and fun for any age and level of ability. The Cyclists Shuswap BBQ Lunch and Celebration (live music, draw prizes) is casual, down to earth Shuswap hospitality. A limit of 600 cyclists has been set for the 100K, 75K a nd 35K routes. There is no limit on the number of 10K route cyclists. For details and the link to on-line registration see www.bikeforyourlife. com •••

Salmon Arm is very pleased to welcome Essentials Wellness Stud io to ou r g row i n g list of professional health and wellness experts in our city. Donna Peters recently opened her own studio and is thrilled to be able to offer full service treatments including Ionic Foot Detox Therapy, Infrared Sauna Therapy, Therapeutic Massage, and aesthetic services, to name a few. Donna also offers mobile wellness services such as Corporate Wellness Programs & Events, Home Wellness Parties and Bridal Party Services. Surprise that special someone with a Massage-O-Gram! Visit www.essentialswellness.ca to book your wellness treatment. ••• Sue Jordan, owner of Curves is very excited to have recently purchased all new equipment for her fitness centre located at 30 Lakeshore Drive in downtown Salmon Arm. Sue and her team of certified fitness instructors have been busy upgrading their skills and assisting all their clients in using their new and improved fitness equipment. Sue is delighted to see her client and membership list continue to grow and invites you to drop by and check out their facility

and meet the team! Call (250) 832-0644 for more information. ••• Shuswap Women in Business are busy finalizing all the exciting speakers and details for their 2 nd Annual Shuswap Women in Business Conference & Trade Show scheduled for Saturday, October 22, 2016 at the Prestige Harbourfront Resort. Go to www.shuswapwomeninbusiness.com and check out their upcoming events page for all the details. ••• Don’t forget to visit the Salmon Arm Fall Fair, which takes place at the fairgrounds from September 9-11, 2016. This is one of the few remaining country fairs showcasing agriculture as well as hosting a midway. Attractions such as Young Gunz trick riders, heavy horse, mudd girlz, poultry in motion, dog herding, 4-H shows and more will delight you and your family! Visit www. salmonarmfair.com/safindex for fair information. Corryn Grayston is the General Manager at the Salmon Arm Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at (250) 832-6247 or admin@ sachamber.bc.ca

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Nominations ‘spectacular’ K ELOW NA - T he nom ination deadline for the 8th Annual Southern Interior Construction Association Commercial Building Awards competition is past, and the nominations received are being called spectacular by event organizers. New institutional, commercial, industrial building, multi/single family, recreational or renovation projects located within these regions and completed between July 31, 2015 and July 31, 2016 are eligible for a Commercial Building Award, with the Gala Celebration set for October 27 at the Four Points Sheraton Hotel in Kelowna. This event recognizes the winning efforts of the Thompson, Okanagan and Kootenay regions’ new institutional, commercial, industrial building, multi/single family, recreational or renovation projects located from Kamloops to Osoyoos, and from Revelstoke to Fernie. T he deadline for accepting nominations was September 2, however, they can be submitted prior to that date, providing the project was completed by July 31 this year. “Some of the entries we’ve received this year are simply spectacular,” says Mark MacDonald, President of Business Examiner Thompson Okanagan newspaper, which coordinates the event for SICA. “Each year there’s variety, of course, but this year, there are some extra intriguing and fascinating projects that have been entered.” RE/MAX Commercial is a Gold sponsor of the event, and category sponsors include MNP LLP and the Green Sheet Review. Each submission will now be

judged by a team of independent judges on the categories noted below, using the following criteria: • Does it complement the surrounding properties and area? • Is it esthetically pleasing? • Are there unique architectural features? • W hat is the level of fini sh (choice i n con st r uct ion materials)? • Does it answer a specific development need within the community? • D o e s it c ont r i b ute to a healthy, sustainable community? • Does it have any environmentally friendly or green elements for possible consideration? The categories for this year’s awards include a new one for Civil (roads, bridges and infrastructure), and Wood buildings. Other categories are: • Mixed use (commercial / residential) • Community Institutional includes Church/ Schools/Government Facilities • Retail/Shopping Centres • Office • Community Recreational • Senior’s Housing • Industrial • Multi Family / Single Family • Hospitality-Hotels/Motels • Recreational/Resort • Commercial renovation/ Restoration • Green For further information about the event or sponsorship, contact Mark MacDonald at Business Examiner Thompson Okanagan at mark@businessexaminer.ca Tickets to the event are available online at www.businessexaminer.ca

NEWS UPDATE

in visitors from a number of markets in June over the same month in 2015, including: China, up 48.8 per cent, Mexico, up 40.2 per cent, Japan, up 22.6 per cent, South Korea, up 21.8 per cent, India, up 20.9 per cent, Australia, up 19.7 per cent, Europe, up 3.9 per cent, United States, up 4.4 per cent A number of factors are contributing to the growth in visitor numbers, including increased air access and capacity to Vancouver, a low Canadian dollar and Destination BC’s new international marketing strategy. T h e C a n a d a T r a n s p o r t ation Agency just an nou nced a sixth mainland China based air carrier, Capital Airlines, will start servicing Vancouver International Airport (YVR) in December. Each new daily international flight to YVR creates between 150 and 200 new jobs at the airport, plus more jobs in B.C.’s hotels, tourism attractions and businesses. The new flights are thanks in part to government’s elimination of a 2012 international jet-fuel tax to reduce costs for airlines and give travellers more choices.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

BC Province Sees Strong International Tourism Growth Midway Through 2016-08-29

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The number of overnight international visitors to British Columbia surpassed the two-million mark for the first six months of 2016. According to Statistics Canada, 2,307,624 visitors came to BC from January to June, a 12.4 per cent increase (254,935 additional visitors) over the same period last year. During the same time frame, other highlights include visits from the United States, which were up 12.4 per cent, visits from Mexico up 38.6 per cent and visits from China up 22 per cent . In addition, 656,676 international visitors came to BC in June alone – an 8.6 per cent increase compared to June 2015. There were increases

SEPTEMBER 2016

MEETING PLACES Connections, Collaboration and Community Developed Through Meeting Venues Conference Centres Are An Effective Way To Promote A Community

he concept of a meeting place, a universally recognized location where the public can gather and where important discussions and business transactions could 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 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.

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

The Conference Centre is across the street from the Crystal Garden and is attached to the Fairmont Empress Victoria “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 economic driver for our community. Our clients and their delegates come from all over the world. We attract business travelers and see them return as tourists, residents

and investors.” To learn more visit the VCC website: www.victoriaconference.com 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 SEE MEETING PLACES | PAGE 13

MEETING PLACES

SEPTEMBER 2016

HOTEL CREATES ONE STOP FOR MEETINGS AND CONFERENCES Kelowna Hotel & Suites

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2402 Hwy 97 N, Kelowna, BC P: (250) 860-1212 Reservations 1-888-860-1212 bestwesternkelowna.com Each Best Western® branded hotel is independently owned and operated.

ELOW NA – Nine stories up at the Best Weste r n K e l ow n a H o te l i s one of the best v iews i n the city. With a roof top terrace overlook i ng Ok a n a ga n l a ke it’s a great place to wind down f ro m a b u s y d a y a t te n d i n g meetings. A popu la r faci l ity for corp o ra te , go v e r n m e n t, s p o r t tea m gat her i ngs, wedd i ngs and family reunions, its full service, one-stop-shop provides custom built packages. “We are unique in that one person works with the client f rom sta r t to f i n ish, ta k i ng care of the basics like blocking rooms, organizing meeting rooms and menu plans as well as afterhours event packages and spa treatments,” said Melissa Depew, events and meetings manager, adding that it makes for a smooth flow for any event. W hat also sets the Best W e s t e r n a p a r t i s i t s e xtreme care for guests and the environment.

Menu pl a n s c ater to i nd iv idua l food needs a nd there are even rooms specially built and cleaned with the severely allergic in mind. “Kelowna is a great place to come for a visit or to attend a meeting. We want everyone to feel welcome including those with special requests.” D ep ew ex pl a i ne d t h at t he hotel accom mo d ates me etings from 10-200 people and of fers a pr ivate, u rba n-l i ke resort atmosphere with all the a men ities needed for a successful event. Recently, it connected to the fibre optic network and offers f ree W i F i i nter net. It h a s a fully renovated and expanded g y m, meet i ng rooms w it h natu ra l l ig hti ng, sa lt-water mineral pool, two outdoor hot tubs, private one-acre courtyard for barbecues or outdoor ga mes, 12 electric ca r cha rging stations, including eight Tesla units, and free airport shuttle service. It s c o m m i t m e n t to c l i e n t ca re a nd to creati ng the p e r fe c t e ve nt s h ow s i n t h e awa rds a nd recog n it ion it’s won, earning a Green Tourism Award, a Green Key Meeting designation, and a Trip Advisor’s Certificate of Excellence, five years in a row.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES BUILD STRONG TEAM SPIRIT New banquet facility offers additional space for corporate meetings and events

ERNON – New banquet facilities at Predator Ridge offer more than soundproof walls, private outdoor patio space, personal planner and luxury accommodations, they also offer stunning views of the surrounding golf course and Okanagan Valley. The open concept of the facility allows for a maximum capacity of 350 guests for a stand up reception, and can also be separated by soundproof walls into three private rooms. Ingrid Dilschneider, director of business development, pointed out that the versatility of the new space allows for different configurations custom designed to fit theatre style, boardroom, stand up or classroom. “From the banquet room, guests have the added bonus of accessing the private outdoor patio space with fire features and an incredible panoramic view.” Predator Ridge offers a unique ex perience for cor porate

meetings or trainings sessions and a perfect one stop experience for a wedding ceremony, photos and reception. “Our sales and conference service team can plan every aspect of a function,” said Ingrid explaining that a corporate event can include group team building activities, tournaments, guided hikes, customized group lessons with the Golf Academy, smaller more private meetings in the Hockey Canada Log Cabin and even shooting lessons. “Companies appreciate the allinclusive feel and the opportunity it provides for bonding as a team, as well as for the chance to relax and enjoy all the amenities it has to offer.” Catering is provided by The Range Lounge & Grill where the menu is locally and responsibly sourced and as Dilschneider noted, anything that can be made from scratch is. “We cater to companies looking to create a memorable experience, where learning and creativity come together for brainstorming, resolution and inspiration.” Dilschneider added that any event can be specially designed to fit specific needs, size and overall meeting goals. Predator Ridge is at 301 Village Centre Place in Vernon www.predatorridge.com

MEETING PLACES

SEPTEMBER 2016

The Penticton Conference Centre offers users more than 60,000 square feet of meeting space

The Penticton Trade and Conference Centre is one of the largest facility’s of its kind in the Interior

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

Nanaimo’s Vancouver Island Conference Centre can accommodate groups of up to 1,300 individuals

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

The Prince George Civic Centre is one of the premier conference venues in northern British Columbia

MEETING PLACES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

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 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. 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 accommodate as many 2,000 people at a time it is the facility’s largest meeting space. The operation also 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 website: www.princegeorgeciviccentre.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.

SEPTEMBER 2016

COMPANY A ONE STOP SHOP FOR DEVELOPMENT & CONSTRUCTION Chase Valley Construction Results Of A Two Company Merger

ENTICTON – Officially launched at the beginning of June 2016, Chase Valley Construction Inc. is the result of Scott Mayhew Contracting joining the Chase Valley Group thus creating a new corporation based in the South Okanagan. The management team of Scott Mayhew and Trevor Caine collectively have decades of regional construction and development experience behind them. Far more than a construction company Chase Valley Construction is a multi-faceted, one stop shop for all aspects of development and construction for all residential, commercial and industrial projects creating a true competitive edge. A certified Housing Professional with the Canadian Home Builders Association (CHBA), Scott Mayhew is a cer ti fied Red Seal Licensed Journeyman Carpenter who has successfully worked throughout the Penticton area for more than a decade and a half. Scott Mayhew Contracting has been involved in countless residential and commercial projects in both new construction and renovation work. Scott Mayhew is a n awa rd winning builder and General Contractor who now has the potential to service a wider market and take on larger scale projects under the new partnership of Chase Valley Construction. Scott explains, “An exciting advantage with the new venture will be the ability to handle all of the Chase Valley Group new build projects in house; from commercial and retail projects to t he con s t r uct ion of new houses for the also newly formed division, Chase Valley Homes. While presently we have strong SEE CHASE VALLEY | PAGE 16

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SEPTEMBER 2016

Chase Valley Construction specializes in both high end residential and commercial building projects

CHASE VALLEY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

representation in residential new build we are also looking to increase our portfolio to include

a higher degree of commercial projects.” Chase Valley Construction is composed of multiple divisions i nclud i ng a ded icated tea m that looks after the ongoing

maintenance of the numerous rental and investment properties owned by the Chase Valley Group as well as servicing local clients and businesses. With fully equipped trucks on the

road Chase Valley Construction offers a quick and efficient response and service for your SEE CHASE VALLEY | PAGE 17

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SEPTEMBER 2016

Chase Valley Construction has worked on projects all across the spectacular Okanagan region services in site surveys that identify ACM’s (asbestos containing materials) and many other types of hazardous materials and the abatement to safely remove such materials. T he add it ion of t hese two sectors truly creates a one stop shop for all aspects of indust r i a l, com merci a l a nd residential construction and has been a year in the making. This business expansion has been a big move for everyone involved but now creates an exceptional team committed to the success and on going growth of the new company as a whole. Recognizing that no business is a one man show Scott is appreciative of the support he has received

from this community over the years. Scott would like to take this opportunity to thank all his suppliers and subtrades for their continued support as well. “I definitely couldn’t have done it without their support. We have a solid nucleus of relationships we’ve built over the years that we know we can rely on; that and of course the patience of my family for letting me take the time away from them to create this new venture. The past few months have been especially busy but all of us at Chase Valley Construction are very excited about what the future holds.” For more information visit the fi rm’s website at: w w w. chasevalley.ca

The company is also one of the subcontractors working on the new casino at the South Okanagan Events Centre

CHASE VALLEY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

small businesses, investment properties, tenant improvements and new build projects needs. With a g row i ng nu mber of employees Chase Valley Construction’s head office is located at 365 Vanhorne Street and the operations office at 1277 Commercial Way; both in Penticton. Structured to provide personal service, Chase Valley Construction has a production capacity to undertake the largest of building and development projects. Important for Scott to explain i s, “T he one t h i ng we wa nt people to know is that while you are seeing a increase of Chase Valley signs, vehicles and high profile projects around town, we remain a very hands on company providing personal attention when looking after our customer base and their needs.” While a new name in the market, but with experience in the region, Chase Valley Construction has a number of key projects that are currently under contract and more in the works for the coming months and near

future. With busy times ahead projects i nclude a new subdivision, construction on new custom homes for both private clients and Chase Valley Homes and a major downtown commercial/residential build. With a team that is experienced with working in the North we are excited to expand our business horizons with our upcoming project in the Yukon. That being said Chase Valley Construction still has capacity

for new clients and projects of any scale with a business philosophy that no project is too small to undertake. Construction Services coow ned by T revor Ca i ne a nd Justin Visona, is able to provide services such as looking after site preparation, excavation, demolition work, underground utilities work and general site services. T he second sector, Chase Valley Environmental, offers representatives to provide

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KELOWNA

assembly area would have capacity for 143 people.

Two new members have joined the Okanagan College Board of Directors. Gloria Morgan, former Chief of the Splats’in Indian Band, was appointed for a term of two years, while Riminder Gakhal, an associate at Davidson Pringle LLP in Vernon, was appointed until December 31, 2017.

Jump On Flyaways, a Calgary-based company allowing travelers to bid on unsold airline seats, has partnered with newly-launched airline company, NewLeaf. Jump On now features NewLeaf’s eleven destinations for bidding on their website at: gojumpon.com.

with seating for fifty inside and an outdoor patio seating twenty. Sherwin Santos is the general manager, with Kathlene Berin and Colton Malmsten as store managers.

Gloria Morgan

Riminder Gakhal

September 9th marks the date of the Our Future City conference, hosted by the Urban Development Institute. Tickets are $100 and the conference will be held at the Rotary Centre for the Arts in Kelowna, and aims to discuss future growth and direction for the Okanagan. Bouchons, a French restaurant located on Sunset Drive, is under new ownership. Martine Lefebvre and Richard Toussaint have sold the establishment to Stephane Facon and Beatrice Laforge. The staff and menu will remain unchanged and Toussaint has agreed to stay for a transition period of two years. A new Dairy Queen has been opened by Eric Malmsten at 1936 Summit Drive. This location is Malmsten’s third Dairy Queen venture, and is open seven days per week

Big White Resort has been chosen by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Snowboard and Canada Snowboard to host the 2017 World Para-Snowboard Championships from February 1-9, 2017. An estimated 80 para-athletes from 25 countries will compete in the snowboard-cross and banked slalom events next year. Omega Communications Ltd. has undergone a number of significant staffing changes. President and founding partner, Gary Campbell has retired from his position, and Warren Saari has stepped in to take his place. Russ Coughlan will be the new vicepresident, while Jessie Lloyd will serve in a directors role. Daren Lowe has moved on to other opportunities. Details on a redevelopment project proposed for the Aqua Marine Valet and boat storage property on Okanagan Lake have been unveiled to the public. Mission Group Homes hosted an open house in which the preliminary plans for a multi-phase residential project were released. There are plans

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to relocate Aqua Marine Valet service to a new indoor building and run from a private boat launch near the Cook Road boat launch. After responding to community feedback, the company plans to propose a revised plan reflecting the feedback in September. Nalu Massage Therapy and Wellness recently celebrated a grand opening at their location in the Winfield Professional Building. A Century 21 Assurance Realty Ltd. suboffice location is scheduled to open this fall in Rutland on Highway 33 West. Myrna and Layton Park are partners of the company. Dr. Peter Mitchell welcomes Dr. Sandy Crocker to his dental practice, located at 1-1482 Springfield Road. Dr. Crocker will provide general dentistry services, in addition to implants, wisdom teeth removal and IV sedation.

Sun Rivers Partnership CEO, Rick Siemens, has announced that Hoodoos restaurant and Sun Rivers Golf Course will be put up for sale. A priced has not yet been named.

PENTICTON Mott Welsh & Associates welcomes James D. Smirle, B.H.R.M., H.D. to their law firm. Mr. Smirle was raised in Summerland, and graduated from the Haskayne School of Business at the University of Calgary and the University of British Columbia Law School. At Mott Welsh & Associates, he will be practicing as a solicitor, specializing in real estate, commercial law, business matters, and specialized estate planning and administration.

SALMON ARM

Peter’s Bros. Construction Ltd. has been awarded an asphalt resurfacing contract in the Summerland area. The project is worth $1.9 million, and centers on resurfacing 11 kilometers of Highway 97. James Smirle Construction will begin after Labour Day, and the estimated completion is set for mid-November. The resurfacing project is part of BC on the Move, a 10-year plan initiated by the provincial government to improve the BC’s transportation network.

The Reedman Gallery, located in Blind Bay Hall on 2510 Blind Bay Road, held a grand opening for their collaborative exhibit this month. The gallery displays art for purchase from a variety of artists and styles that include: photography, paintings of all kinds, jewellery, mosaics, woodwork, pottery, and glassworks.

A new biking and hiking trail, Neverland, has been opened in the Penticton area. The Penticton and Area Cycling Association opened this newest addition to the Three Blind Mice in mid-August. The new trail came as a result of a partnership between Recreation Sites and Trails BC and PACA, which was formed in May.

Wizard Inkjet Ink & Toner Sales has closed down their 254 Shuswap Street location in Salmon Arm.

Penticton’s annual summer event, Peach Festival, celebrated its 69th year running, on August 3-7.

The team at Edward Jones Financial in Salmon Arm celebrated 15 years serving the community this year.

SUMMERLAND

After fifteen years with StarDyne Technologies, CEO and co-founder David Burke, will be retiring. StarDyne’s GEMS division and corporate services have been acquired by Aptean Canada Software Inc., while the SRB division was acquired by PowerSchool Group LLC.

KAMLOOPS Focus Downtown has coordinated “Alive after Five”, an event from August 22nd – September 2nd where local retail shops, restaurants, cafes and merchants located in Downtown Kamloops have their doors open until 9:00pm on weekday evenings. The Focus Downtown group is comprised of the City of Kamloops, Venture Kamloops, the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce, the Kamloops Central Business Improvement Association, Rocky Mountaineer and Tourism Kamloops. A zoning amendment for an amphitheatre project at the Monte Creek Ranch Winery was recently approved by the ThompsonNicola Regional District board of directors, bringing the project one step closer towards breaking ground. The amphitheatre would seat roughly 1,800 people, and a proposed

Summerland has two new businesses to take care of your pets’ needs. The Beach Tails Pet Salon and Spa opened in a convenient location in downtown. This October, Canines & Co. Okanagan will begin their dog obedience school, which includes private consultations and group training. Two new Corporate Members have joined the Summerland Chamber of Commerce this month. Cherry Lane Shopping Centre boasts over 270,000 square feet of retail, with a diverse mix of over 60 stores and services. Christina Fenske of Orchard Valley Counselling Services offers a range of customized services for adults, and specializes in seniors’ mental health support. Red Line Paddle Board, a new business launched this summer, has expanded its rentals to offer kayak rentals in addition to paddleboards. Their beach operation will SEE MOVERS AND SHAKERS | PAGE 19

SEPTEMBER 2016

MOVERS AND SHAKERS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

finish for the season on September 7th, but rentals for paddleboards and kayaks are available from them year-round. Soleil Tanning, located on Victoria Road North, is now offering Purolator courier services. Along with their tanning salon services, Soleil will now include package pick up and drop off during the hours of 9 am to 6 pm from Monday to Friday. Okanagan Crush Pad is now offering cheese and charcuterie platters as part of a new picnic program. The platters may be enjoyed on their new and improved patio area.

map features detailed photos of the beads, allowing you to click on the listing of the bead you want and be automatically directed to its location. This initiative is part of the company’s new, mobile-friendly, website. The Back Door Winery is donating $1 from every bottle sold of their ‘Calling of the Crow’ white wine and ‘The Way Home’ red wine to the BC Disaster Preparedness Fund at the Canadian Red Cross. The winery wanted to give back to the community by supporting a fund that helps many families in the Okanagan. Last month, Beauty Box Studio Inc. hired Jen back onto their team. She has been a stylist for 13 years and specializes in short cuts.

In addition to offering their dressings and marinades at local markets and Nesters Summerland, Oma Goodness! products are now available in Abbotsford, Armstrong, Chilliwack and Vernon.

Encore Vineyards welcomed two new staff this month. Gina Gagné will be the new Wine Club Manager & Events Coordinator and Nadine Allander will be Assistant Winemaker.

Souviwear Apparel how has 9 locations open throughout the Okanagan, including Rock Star District and Barn Owl Gifts in Summerland. The company has also recently launched an online store to offer custom apparel orders for businesses.

Chantelle Merriam was honoured with an Edward Jones Sr. Founders Achievement Award at Edward Jones’ Summer Regional Meeting awards last month. The award represents her team’s level of success in meeting their clients’ needs. In addition, Chantelle received her 10-year service award.

BeadTrails has made it easier for visitors to plan their route and find participating businesses through their new interactive map. The new

Lunessence Winery & Vineyard’s 2014 Riesling Icewine and Okanagan Crush Pad’s Haywire

The Bub 2014 were both awarded BC Lieutenant Governor’s Awards for Excellence in BC Wines. The Honourable Judith Guichon, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, will visit the winning wineries in September to present the awards. All wineries in British Columbia were invited to submit their wines for blind judging by a panel of wine industry professionals. Wines submitted were required to be made from 100 per cent British Columbian grown grapes and produced in province to be eligible. Len Colman CFP, CLU of Holistic Wealth is celebrating 20 years in the financial services industry, and will soon celebrate his 5th anniversary since relocating the office of Manulife Securities Inc. to Summerland. Coleman moved to Summerland for the lifestyle, to enjoy the people, weather, and activities. Last weekend, Saxon Estate Winery presented their medieval faire, SaxFest, where guests could experience the Middle Ages with sword fighting, archery, crafts, and trebuchet launching.

been appointed to the Credit Union Executives Society Board of Directors. Marshall will bring his extensive experience to CUES, an independent, not-for-profit, international membership association for credit union executives that works to educate and develop credit union CEOs, directors and future leaders.

VERNON Pink Spotted Goat is a new shop opened by Pam Taylor, which showcases goods from local artisans in the Thompson Okanagan region, stocking items for nearly one hundred vendors. The shop rents shelf space to the local vendors without commission for $24 per month, which allows products to be sold at affordable prices. Pink Spotted Goat is located on the corner of 32nd Street and 31st Avenue.

Looking for community involvement, the Summerland Seniors Village is welcoming entries for their Scarecrow Contest. Entries will be on display at the Village from September 1 to November 3, and all are invited to enter.

Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery has announced a Laird of Fintry single malt whisky lottery for 2016. The Laird of Fintry is produced using one hundred per cent BC malted barley and made only in small batches. An estimated 1,500 bottles will be released in 2016, with the lottery reaching a potential 8,000 entrants. This year’s lottery opens on September 30th, is free to enter and can be done online or at the distillery in Vernon.

Kelly Marshall, CEO of the Summerland Credit Union, has

The provincial government has approved plans for Valemount

Glacier Destination Resort, a $175 million year-round ski resort project located in the Cariboo Mountains. Oberto Oberti, designer of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort and the Jumbo Glacier Resort proposal, is commandeering the project. Dominion Lending Centres White House Mortgages mortgage professional, Daryl Eyjolfson, has been named among the Canadian Mortgage Professional 2016 Young Guns, a list that spotlights professionals in the industry under 35.

OLIVER – OSOYOOS Paving is finally underway for the Area 27 racetrack near Oliver. Peters Bros. paving began to lay the first asphalt down from Turn 2 to Turn 7 in late August. After three years of planning, the project broke ground in December, began earthworks in February, and a grand opening is scheduled for the spring of 2017. Bordertown Vineyards and Estate Winery in Osoyoos, and Howling Moon Cider House in Oliver, have been awarded up to $30,762 in grant funding from the provincial government. BC’s Buy Local program endeavours to increase sales of agri-food and seafood grown and processed locally in the province. Both companies aim to boost sales by 25 per cent in the coming year, and this funding will split the cost of marketing.

LEADING BY EXAMPLE

Welcome Trina Warren Leaders are made, not born. That’s why MNP continues to develop and promote our best people to ensure we continue to meet all your business needs. Welcome Trina Warren on her new role as the Regional Managing Partner for the Thompson-Okanagan Region. As the former Regional Managing Partner for Southern Saskatchewan Trina draws on more than two decades of experience delivering comprehensive assurance and taxation solutions to owner-managed businesses including those in the construction sector – and is looking forward to growing these practice areas in Kelowna, Vernon and Kamloops. In addition to forging strong relationships with clients, Trina is a respected leader who is committed to empowering her team to deliver the business advice their clients need to stay competitive and profitable. We look forward to having her lead our exceptional team of business advisors in the Thompson-Okanagan region. As one of the largest national accounting and business consulting firms in Canada, MNP continues to lead by example by delivering the people and the results you need to be successful. Contact Trina Warren, CPA, CA, Regional Managing Partner, Thompson-Okanagan Region at 1.877.766.9735 or trina.warren@mnp.ca

SEPTEMBER 2016

ACCELERATE OKANAGAN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

programs for new companies, acceleration programs for firms that are already up and running and we have space for new start ups to operate from,” he explained. “Not all of our clients are inhouse but we have about 20 per cent of them renting space from us while the others operate their offices out of their homes or they have premises elsewhere.” In addition to serving as a landlord for fledgling enterprises, Accelerate Okanagan operates an assortment of programs designed specifically to meet the needs of companies at every stage of its development. This could include everything from tips for entrepreneurs just starting out, to real world programs designed for growth stage companies on the cusp of expansion. “An example of our programs is ‘Startup Basics’ where we teach business fundamentals like what does it take to start a business, coming up with the idea for your business and other key starting points,” Gopal said. A key ingredient that has made Accelerate Okanagan so successful is the inclusion of experienced mentors, individuals who have industry experience and who have known first-hand the joys and challenges of the entrepreneurial life. “We have our own mentors in our programs called Executives

Raghwa Gopal is the Chief Executive Officer of Accelerate Okanagan, entity created six years ago

“Since 2014 this sector‘s economic impact has grown by 30 per cent.” RAGHWA GOPAL

Speaking at a business meeting Brea Ratzlaff (right) is Accelerate Okanagan’s Operations Manager

CEOL, ACCELERATE OKANAGAN

in Residence who deliver these workshops, as well as bringing in various community partners who come and deliver them as well,” explained Brea Ratzlaff, Accelerate Okanagan’s Operations Manager. “Participants in the Startup Basics program would be very early stage, or start-up founders. But our other programs are geared toward later stages of a company’s growth and would appeal to a different type of client.” Not a funding organization, Accelerate Okanagan provides the resources to allow a new firm to

CEO Raghwa Gopal shares a happy moment with recent participants of an Accelerate Okanagan program

Customer Care Bootcamp

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launch, but not finance it. However the organization’s extensive connections and local knowledge is regularly put to use to direct clients toward those who do provide business funding. Since its inception Accelerate Okanagan has helped launch nearly 200 companies in the Okanagan area, a significant boon to a sector that is becoming increasingly important to the region. A new economic impact study clearly points out just how vital high tech business is to the Okanagan. “High tech industries represent $1.3 billion in economic impact and there are 633 tech companies in the Okanagan, employing nearly 7,200 people,” Gopal said. “Since 2013 this sector‘s economic impact has grown by 30 percent. I think these facts show just how important high tech business is to the region.” For the future Accelerate Okanagan anticipates an ever increasing need for the services it is providing, and continued growth in the regional tech sector. “Our goal is to see the tech industry grow into a $2 billion industry in a few years, one that would employ more than 10,000 people,” he said. “We’re hoping to see the sector grow to more than 800 companies in the next couple of years, which if achieved would represent a 40 per cent growth. We earnestly believe it to be an achievable goal.” For more information about the organization please its website: www.accelerateokanagan.com

KEY CUSTOMER SERVICE PRINCIPLES BUILD LOYALTY Keeping your sales skills sharp and current are mandatory for success

ELOW NA – In today’s world, buyers are well-informed consumers. They negotiate better, are savvy and are more educated about their choices. From a sales perspective that means, what got you where you are today in sales and customer service, won’t necessarily keep you there tomorrow. In September, Sandler Training will be offering a One-Day Sales Boot Camp on sharpening sales skills for the current market and in October, a Strategic Customer Care Bootcamp. With consumers looking for e x c e p t i o n a l c u s to m e r s e rvice paired with strong value, whether you’re new to sales or have been around for a while and have experienced the changes, periodic sharpening of your skill set is mandatory for success. Prospecting, qualifying and closing are the cornerstones of sales. But if your sales skills haven’t been keeping up with the times, you’ll get left behind because it isn’t just about

finding the client, it’s about converting that opportunity into a sale. The best way to create loyalty is through the three key principles of cu stomer ser v ice: exceptional communication, managing expectations, and dealing with difficult customers. A lthough the principles haven’t changed, how best to approach them and your client has. Staying current with the latest strategies and tactics for sales and customer service, is what each of these One-Day Bootcamps will cover. Participants will walk away with fresh new insights and direction for providing the service customers want and innovative skills you’ll need in today’s marketplace. Regardless of your industry, consistent growth, a loyal customer base and predictable sales results is a gold standard worth achieving. Accelerate Sales Momentum Bootcamp – Wednesday, September 28th, 8:30-4:30 Strategic Customer Care Bootcamp – Thursday, October 27th, 8:30-4:30 For more information contact Lucy Glennon at 250-260-7875 or lgennon@sandler.com To Register please go online at www.glennon.sandler.com

SEPTEMBER 2016

ITEL NETWORKS CELEBRATES THEIR NEW LOCATION

Tel Networks, is one of Canada’s fastest growing business internet and telecom providers. In a market dominated by unresponsive mega corporations and small operations, iTel is a new and better alternative. We are a local company that’s changing the way businesses think about phone and internet services with a unique “network of networks” that no other provider can offer. This allows us to provide an extremely customized portfolio of solutions for businesses to choose from. Regardless of budget, location, or growth plans we are able to create tailor-made internet and telecom services to meet and exceed our clients’ needs. iTel’s growth has been monumental this year, so big, that we grew too large for our office. So, we found a new (and much bigger) home. Our new space is ready and we are very excited about it. To commemorate this, iTel is teaming up with the Kamloops Innovation Centre to host our Grand Opening alongside Tech Brew 2016. It’s going to be an event of inspiration, networking, and celebration and we are inviting local and surrounding business communities to come and help us celebrate. iTel Grand Opening The first portion of the afternoon will involve tours of our new campus, a ribbon cutting

ceremony, speeches from Mini s ter To d d S tone a nd B C IC P resident a nd CEO, Sh i rley Vickers, and cake (because it isn’t a party without cake).

fare, and sip on craft beer. If you would like to stay for this event, t ickets a re ava i l able through the Kamloops Innovation Centre.

Tech Brew 2016 Tech Brew will occur during the latter half of the evening from 5pm - 7pm. Tech Brew brings Kamloops’ latest technologies, innovators, and decision makers together in one spot. You w i l l h ave t he opportunity to meet with local tech pioneers, demo new technolog y, snack on food truck

Location: iTel Networks (1850 Mission Flats Road, Kamloops, BC V2C 1A9) Date: September 21 st, 2016 Time: 2pm -7pm If you would like to attend, please RSV P to events@itel. com no later than Friday, September 16, 2016. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!

Special Rates SpecialCorporate Corporate Rates Christmas Parties Meeting Rooms Roof Top Lounge and Patio Meeting Rooms 555 West Columbia St. KAMLOOPS

250 374-0358 | 1-800-663-2832 RamadaKamloops.ca

OPINION

SEPTEMBER 2016 A division of Invest Northwest Publishing Ltd. Thompson Okanagan Office #210-347 Leon Avenue, Kelowna, BC V1Y 8C7 Toll free: 1.866.758.2684 Fax: 1.778.441.3373 Email: info@businessexaminer.ca Website: www.businessexaminer.ca

PUBLISHER/EDITOR | Lise MacDonald, lise@businessexaminer.ca SALES | Joanne Iormetti – joanne@businessexaminer.ca, Thom Klos – thom@businessexaminer.ca, Josh Higgins – josh@businessexaminer.ca WRITERS | Julia MacDonald, John MacDonald, Beth Hendry-Yim, David Holmes, Linda Wenger, Kristin van Vloten WEBSITE | John MacDonald

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 Thompson Okanagan, 2016. Canadian Publications Mail Acct.: 40069240

SEPTEMBER 2016

NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN THE CANADIAN MUSIC BUSINESS LAW

Through its acquisition of MediaNet and Audiam,

SOCAN can identify music on digital services

SOCAN has greatly increased its ability to be

O C A N (t h e S o c i e t y o f Composers, Authors and Music Publishers of Canada) collects royalties based upon tariffs approved by the Copy r ig ht B oa rd of Ca nad a for Canadian performances of songs for Canadian and international songwriters and music publishers. Tariffs have been set for recorded or live music ranging from concerts to restaurants to fitness classes. Of particular relevance to this article are the tariffs for performance of songs on the internet and on mobile devices. In May of 2016 SOCAN announced that it had acquired Seattle-based MediaNet. This was followed by an announcement by SOCAN in July of 2016 that it had acquired New Yorkbased Audiam. As with all performing rights organizations, SOCAN’s main f u nct ion s a re f i rst ly to determine what music is being performed and, secondly, to collect the applicable royalty prescribed by Canadian law. Collection of royalties relating

effective at identifying uses of music on the internet and collect royalties Michael Cooper and Doug Thompson of ThompsonCooper LLP to t h e i nte r n e t a n d m o b i l e devices create technological challenges. MediaNet has more than 51 m i l l ion sou nd record i ngs i n its database, each containing a unique audio identifier. By acquiring MediaNet, SOCAN will be able to identify digital p er for m a nc e s f rom a rou nd t he world i n rea l-t i me. Audiam similarly, has one of the world’s most complete databases of sound recording and underlying song/composition metadata. In addition, Audiam has technology to proactively find works that are not licensed and for which royalties have not been paid.

With the combined strength of Med ia Net a nd Aud ia m, SOCAN can identify the use of music on digital services such as Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube and Google Play. W hen songs are performed, in addition to royalties compensating the songwriters and music publishers, there are also royalties compensating the artists who perform the songs and music recording companies. Prior to acquiring Audiam, SOCAN was not involved in collecting royalties for performing artists and music recording companies. I n c ont ra s t, a s i g n i f i c a nt portion of the busi ness of A u d i a m wa s t h e c ol le c t ion

of roya lt ies for p er for m i ng a rtists a nd music record i ng companies. With the acquisition of Audiam, SOCAN now has the capabi l ity to col lect song w riter-music publ isher royalties and performing artist-music recording companies roya lt ies. Wit h ch a nges broug ht on by t he i nter net, songwriters and performing artists had become frustrated by the ineffectiveness of the performing rights organizations in the collection of royalties, resulting in a fracturing, w ith new perform i ng rights organizations being formed by the disenchanted. T h roug h its acqu isition of MediaNet and Audiam, SOCAN has greatly increased its ability to be effective at identifying uses of music on the internet and collect royalties. SOCAN’s acquisition of Audiam’s expertise in collecting royalties for performing artists and music labels, has been heralded by some commentators as an important new development that raises the possibility of SOCAN becoming a “one stop shop” on the Canadian music scene. The fact that MediaNet and Audiam are U.S. based also suggests that SOCAN will become more active in collecting royalties in the United States.

COLLABORATION CRITICAL FOR ECONOMIC SUCCESS

SUMMERLAND CHRISTINE PETKAU

few weeks ago, the Summerland Chamber h ad the opportunity to host an Economic Development Building Blocks Workshop that was presented and facilitated by staff and consultants from the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training. Chamber board members were joined at the workshop by Summerland Mayor, Councilors and District staff, business and community members of the Mayor’s Task Force on Economic Development and other regional EcDev partners. The workshop gave us the opportunity to look at our community together through an economic development lens and discuss the best prospects for growth and the beginnings of a community vision. It was particularly helpful to brainstorm together to create

(l-r) Dan Albas, Member of Parliament for Central Okanagan - Similkameen - Nicola; Christa Lee McWatters Bond, Owner Evolve Winery and President of Bottleneck Drive Winery Assoc. and Chair of the BC Wine Institute; Erick Thompson, Owner ET2media and President of the Summerland Chamber of Commerce. a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) document that looked at our economic advantages and our challenges. Throughout the workshop, we

created a number of useful tools and information that we can use to move forward. In addition to the SWOT, we developed a list of projects and initiatives

to engage our business members and help them grow and we achieved a better understanding of how ready the community is for investment.

During this past week, some of the same individuals joined us here at the Chamber for a webinar specifically around how a community can fill empty downtown buildings. While not every idea will fit in Summerland, some of them can certainly be implemented very soon as we work together to fill key spots in our downtown area. T h e b e s t p a r t o f wo rk i n g together across all these groups is knowing that we all have the same goal – appropriate growth for our community while maintaining the characteristics that we all love. ••• Summerland Chamber members also participated this week in a business roundtable with our Member of Parliament, Dan Albas. MP Albas was able to update a number of Summerland winery owners on new developments regarding interprovincial trade and the ‘Free My Grapes’ initiative. He also answered questions from the group regarding temporary foreign workers and general labour mobility amongst skilled occupations.

Christine Petkau is Executive Director at the Summerland Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at cpetkau@ summerlandchamber.com.

GREENSHEET / OFF THE COVER

SIMONE SUNDERLAND

GREEN SHEET BUILDING BRIEFS

CORRECTION: Last month we published incorrect information about Collett Manor, located at 2149 to 2189 Pandosy St. The Green Sheet listed Sawchuk Developments Ltd. as the project’s general contractor, when in fact no general contractor had been selected. As of yet, the developer has not selected a general contractor.

604-683-8797

KAMLOOPS

PROJECT TYPE Multi-Family New

LOCATION

PROJECT New townhouses - 3 fourplexes - 2 storeys - 12 units - wood frame construction - attached double garages

311 Columbia St - Patient Care Tower - Royal Inland Hospital Expansion PROJECT TYPE Institutional Add/Alter PROJECT New Patient Care Tower - scope of project TBD PROJECT STATUS Business plan approx. 75 per cent complete - submission to Ministry for approval anticipated December/16 ARCHITECT IBI Group Architects Head Office - 700 1285 W Pender St, Vancouver V6E 4B1

OWNER Interior Health Authority and Thompson Nicola Regional Hospital District Board

SALMON ARM LOCATION

131 Harbourfront Dr – Fourplexes

PROJECT STATUS Design underway - building permit submission anticipated late/16 ARCHITECT Bernd Hermanski Arch - Box 1438 40 Alexander St NE, Salmon Arm V1E 4P6 250-8327400 GENERAL CONTRACTOR CDN Framing & Development Box 399, Salmon Arm V1E 4N5 250-832-1503

VERNON LOCATION

4600 Okanagan Ave Townhouses - Okanagan Ridge PROJECT TYPE Multi-Family New

ARCHITECT Cities Edge Architects - 300 103 15 Ave NW, Willmar 56201 608643-4100 DEVELOPER Argus Properties - 300 1060 Manhattan Dr, Kelowna V1Y 9X9 250-763-6789

PROJECT New side by side duplexes - 4 structures - 8 units - 2 storeys double garages - 4 surface parking stalls PROJECT STATUS Rezoning application approval anticipated fall/16 DESIGNER

PROJECT New townhouse development - 6 structures - 24 units - 2 and 3 storeys - 2 and 3 bedroom units 1,184 sf to 1,234 sf - wood frame construction –

CITY OF WEST KELOWNA

PROJECT STATUS Building permit application submitted - presales underway

Glenrosa and Yorkton Rds. - Residential - Commercial Glenrosa Highlands

ARCHITECT Tarjan Group Architects & Interior Designers - 1417 Kensington Rd NW, Calgary T2N 3R1 403-265-3100

PROJECT TYPE Subdivision

GENERAL CONTRACTOR Okanagan Ridge LP - 230 2891 NE Sunridge Way, Calgary AB T1Y 7K7 403-571-8400

SEPTEMBER 2016

LOCATION

PROJECT New mixed use development on 14.58 ha - 56 SFD lots, 34 compact housing lots, 793 multi family units - 2,625 sum commercial plus 22 residential units - park space on 1.65 ha

Ironwood Residential Design 203 69 Nanaimo Ave, Penticton V2A 1M1 250-276-6440

OKANAGAN SIMILKAMEEN REGIONAL DISTRICT LOCATION

2141 Willies Ranch Rd, Princeton - RockRidge Canyon Lodge - Club Room Auditorium PROJECT TYPE Commercial Add/Alter

LOCATION

PROJECT STATUS Development permit application submitted - submission of construction drawings anticipated fall/16

PROJECT Club Room Auditorium addition to the RockRidge Canyon - conference centre - 2 storeys - 12,000 sf - 2 meeting rooms lobby - seating for 350

PROJECT TYPE Commercial New

APPLICANT DE Pilling & Associates - 200 540 Grove Ave, Kelowna V1Y 4Y7 250-763-2315

PROJECT STATUS Framing underway - construction completion anticipated spring/17

KELOWNA 1665 and 1697 Innovation Dr Hampton Inn & Suites

PROJECT New Hampton Inn & Suites hotel - 1 structure - approx. 6 storeys approx. 100 rooms PROJECT STATUS Rezoning application and OCP amendment application approval anticipated fall/16

PENTICTON LOCATION

784 Argyle St – Duplexes PROJECT TYPE Multi-Family New

GENERAL CONTRACTOR Ledcor Construction Ltd (Kelowna) - 4 3302 Appaloosa Rd, Kelowna V1V 2W5 250-4912991 OWNER Young Life of Canada - 120 9440 202 St, Langley V1M 4A6 604881-6023

I CONTINUE TO LEARN

HR CHRISTINE WILLOW

u r c o m p a n y re c e n t ly went through a merger. What I learned or more accurately was reminded of is that even as subject matter experts, there are still things we don’t always get quite right. T he u su a l process i nvolves negotiations and discussions and a strategic plan for implementation. As business owners and entrepreneurs, we are usually very good at working out all the logistical and financial aspects of such a process, but what about the people side of the equation? Bringing two different groups of employees, each with their own culture and working style together and there are bound to

be some bumps along the way, no matter how well you plan the process. In our situation, we thought we had ta ken a l l the necessary steps to ensure that the integration of the two teams wou ld go smoot h ly, a nd for the most part we did. We met with the new team members individually; had a meeting as a group with both teams; provided company information on payroll, benefits and policies and prepared an orientation plan. But was our HR onboardi ng process a nd orientation pla n su fficient a nd deta i led enough? Well it turns out we missed some things. And while they were small in the scope of all the other activities, it still created a negat ive outcome in the sense of frustrated new employees. A s a n exa mple: we requ i re our employees to change their password for their computers/ email/ etc. every three months. For those of us working here for some time, this is just one of those regular routines you don’t even think about anymore. However, if you are new

and come in to work on Monday morn i ng, w ith pressi ng deadlines and you can’t log in, frustration! W hile this may seem like a small thing, for a new employee it can present their new employer as either careless or “I’m not important”. Not the tone that I wish to set in our work environment. It re-emphasized the importance of ensuring that we provided all the information needed by a new employee to set them up for success right from the start. Starting a new job comes with many emotions; excitement, confusion and v ulnerability are just a few. So as a reminder to all of us managers and employers, here are some of the steps to remember to ensure our new employees feel welcomed through a fulsome onboarding and orientation program: 1. E f f e c t i v e o n b o a r d i n g starts during the recruitment and hiring phase. This is when you can inform the potential new employee of your culture and the type of environment in which they will

work. 2. Ensure that they know the expectations right from the start by providing a copy of the job descript ion a nd a copy of t he performa nce appra isa l so that they k now how their performance will be measured and what they will be held accountable for. 3. Create an orientation template that identifies some or a l l of the fol low i ng: • Compa ny over v iew; •A d m i n i s t r a t i v e r e quirements such as what documents need to b e completed for payr o l l , s e c u r i t y, c o n f id e n t i a l it y, k e y s, e tc .; •C o m p a n y t o u r and introductions •What they can expect on Day 1, Week 1 and Month 1; •W h o w i l l b e t h e i r key contact to a n swer questions? 4. Company tour – welcome new employees with a tour of the company and introductions to co-workers. 5. O n t h e j o b t r a i n i n g

– identify the training the employee will receive for the first three months in their new position. 6. Mentorsh ip – consider identifying another employee in either the same o r s i m i l a r p o s i t io n to be the go-to person for questions. As I have been recently reminded of, when onboarding and providing orientation for your new employee don’t overlook the little things, have a system with checklists and relevant company information and don’t just focus on the paperwork. Make your new employee feel welcomed and valued right from the start. The benefits of a successful onboa rd i ng a nd orientation prog ra m en s u re s t h at you r new h i re is engaged, bu i lds trust, connects them with the rest of your team and reduces turnover. Christine Willow is a partner with Chemistry Consulting and can be reached at c.willow@ chemistryconsulting.ca

SEPTEMBER 2016

CASCADE AQUA-TECH: SPECIALISTS IN GLAZING ACCESSORIES Family-Owned Business Has Served The Window Industry Since 1987

ELOW NA – Since 1987 Cascade Aqua-Tech has been the supplier of choice for glazers, glass shops caulking contractors and waterproofing professionals in BC and Alberta. With four outlets in British Columbia (including Victoria) and two in Alberta, the company began as a small family-owned business serving the window industry, but today has grown to service the full range of trades involved in the building envelope industry. “We supply the construction industry, specifically the glazing contractors and Waterproofers,” explained David Hyldig, the Branch Manager of the Victoria Cascade Aqua-Tech outlet. “We’re essentially serving a niche market, glass, window installs, building envelope wall systems and waterproofing supplies,” he said. “If you’re a window shop or a glass company you’ll likely be dealing with us for caulking and tapes and related materials, but not the glass itself. We don’t sell the glass but all types of glazing accessories.” Cascade Aqua-Tech represents an extensive list of quality construction supply manufacturers including BASF, Henry Bakor, Dow Corning, Tremco, Q Railing, 3M, Siga, Kryton, Durock and many more. The company has grown over the past 29 years into one of the largest wholesaler and contractor outlets serving the glass and building envelope industries in Western Canada. Hyldig is no stranger to the construction industry and to the Victoria marketplace. Growing up in the area his father was a contractor and developer and he essentially grew up in the construction sector. Having worked in the specialty construction supply business for more than 15 years, he has been a key part of the Cascade Aqua-Tech team for more than a decade. Located at 540 Hillside Avenue Cascade Aqua-Tech’s Victoria

The Victoria branch of Cascade Aqua-Tech carries a wide range of building envelope products

“We’re the service oriented, technical resource building supply outlet.” DAVID HYLDIG BRANCH MANAGER, CASCADE AQUA-TECH

branch features a sales and administrative office as well as a 5,000 square foot supply warehouse. One of its biggest assets of course is its staff of five who are trained and equipped with the sorts of real world industry knowledge their clients have come to rely upon. Cascade Aqua-Tech’s product line and knowledge base has expanded dramatically over the last three decades. While originally focused on providing glazing supplies, today the branches are also equipped to support the air vapor barrier industry, offer an assortment of architectural hardware products such as railings and stainless steel cladding and sell a wide range of coating and waterproofing options. For the future Cascade AquaTech anticipates remaining at the forefront of the industry by incorporating new technologies into its product lines as they become available. “We’re the service oriented, technical resource building supply outlet. There may be some places where you can go to get some of the same things but without the same level of technical support provided by our staff,” Hyldig said. “We’re regularly working with engineers and architects so we have a broad scope and I like to think that we play a role in bringing the contractors and the engineers and all of the available products together.” Experienced in the glazing and air vapor barrier industry, a representative of most of the leading product manufacturers, a resource of current technological information, Cascade Aqua-Tech has grown and expanded over the years to become an industry leader, a position it expects to retain in the coming years. “Technology aside the real strengths of our business are the relationships we’ve developed over the years. We’ve gotten to where we are by doing everything we can to ensure projects go smoothly by finding the right solution for every application. That’s probably been the real key to our success, in the past and in the years to come,” he said. For more information visit the company’s website at: www.cascadeaqua.com

Curt Derrick, a salesman with Cascade Aqua-Tech, picks up some product for a client in the warehouse

Cascade Aqua-Tech is located at 540 Hillside Avenue in a 5,000 square foot office / warehouse facility

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SEPTEMBER 2016

LOCATION IS STAR ATTRACTION OF NEW DEVELOPMENT Rooftop terrace an added plus for new condominium development next to Gellatly Nut Farm

EST KELOWNA – Location is just one of the star attractions for the Gellatly Place development, said Don Warkentin of Fortune Marketing. A half city block from Okanagan Lake and across from the luxury hotel, the Cove Lakeside Resort, it sits adjacent to the historic Gellatly Nut Farm Regional Park. “This is a unique property,” Warkentin explained. “There are not a lot of other buildings in the area and, with the active nut farm and horse ranch next door, both within the Agricultural Land Reserve, it has a real country living charm.” The land, originally purchased by local developer Stewart Smith in 2006, was slated for development in 2008. But with the sudden downturn in the economy at that time, the project was put on hold until recently. The complex will have three buildings for a total of 111 twoand three-bedroom condo units ranging in size from 877 to 1,275 sq. ft. Phase 1 will be ready for November occupancy with sales for Building 2 opening in September. The purchase price starts at $316,900 and has low strata fees of approximately $150.00 per month. “The first building is already 60 per cent sold,” said Warkentin, whose company recently took over the sales and marketing of the project. “We’ve redone the website and all of the floor plans to make them more user friendly and to highlight the benefits of buying in this complex.” The developer has converted a building onsite into a sales center with a mock kitchen and bath so potential home buyers can get a feel for the design, colours and finishings of the project. In

“There are not a lot of other buildings in the area and, with the active nut farm and horse ranch next door, both within the Agricultural Land Reserve, it has a real country living charm.” DON WARKENTIN PARTNER, FORTUNE MARKETING KELOWNA

Located in a quiet area adjacent to Gellatly Nut Farm, a horse farm and the luxury Cove Lakeside Resort CREDIT:BLUE GREEN ARCHITECTURE

November, once the initial building is complete, there will be a full-size show suite set up for onsite viewing. “Our focus for Gellatly Place is to match buyers with the right unit. We wanted them to be able to get a good feel for the quality and design and to see the kind of product Gellatly offers,” he said. “With prices going up, downsizers or first time home buyers can get a brand new condo, close to all amenities, for an affordable price.” He added that with little available in the rental market in West Kelowna at this time, potential buyers can actually own their own property at about the same price it would cost to rent, an appealing proposition for new buyers. The top third floor has units that are 1,040 sq. ft. to over 1,200 sq. ft., with the added bonus of a 200-300 sq. ft. rooftop terrace accessed via an interior stairwell, with a lake and mountain view, and for select units, a park view as well. The interior of Gellatly Place offers contemporary, high quality

Exterior is finished with hardi-plank and cedar siding, and paths lead to parks and beach access CREDIT:BLUE GREEN ARCHITECTURE

finishings in each of the units with features that include barn door sliders to access the den and closet in master bedroom, a choice of classic shaker or

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modern flat cabinet doors with stainless handles, stainless appliances, chic quartz countertops, plank flooring, enhanced soundproofing bolstered by silent

flooring with concrete topping and acoustic insulation, plus an efficient PTAC heating and cooling system. Ensuite bathrooms also feature

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Paths and trails wind through the Gellatly Nut Farm and one of Kelowna’s regional parks CREDIT:SHOWCASE PHOTOGRAPHY

Beaches are only a half kilometer away, accessed from the waterfront promenade CREDIT-SHOWCASE PHOTOGRAPHY

Kitchen designs include a choice of classic shaker or modern flat cabinet doors with stainless handles CREDIT:SHOWCASE PHOTOGRAPHY

City Furniture West Kelowna has partnered with Gellatly Place to furnish the show suite and offer special furniture packages to clients CREDIT:CITY FURNITURE

quartz countertops and recessed lighting with tiled showers accented by ceramic tile. Each bedroom is carpeted and the master bedroom has a walk-in closet. T he ex terior has been as

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tastefully designed as the interior with the use of hardi-plank and cedar siding; a landscaped courtyard area with pathways leading to park and lake access and a secure off-leash dog park, playground and

grassy green space. G el latly a lso offers secu re underground parking for residents and guests. Third floor suites have two parking stalls with suites on other floors having

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one parking space each. Residents will find the area quieter than downtown Kelowna and those interested in boating have easy access, not only to the West Kelowna Yacht Club that’s only half a kilometer away, but also to watersports offered across the street at the Cove. “For a fee, Gellatly owners can rent paddleboards, kayaks, and water toys and can moor their own boat at the Cove’s premier marina. Residents may also take advantage of the Cove’s restaurant and lounge along with their full service spa.” But as Warkentin points out, it isn’t just the nicely turned out units that have already attracted buyers. It’s the location. West Kelowna is a desirable area in which to live. It’s only ten minutes from the downtown

core, and is home to more than 1,400 businesses, over a dozen wineries, 129 parks and trails, an aquatic centre, schools, shopping centres, movie theatres, golf courses, and arena, all just minutes away from Gellatly. When opened, sales are expected to be brisk and, with Fortune’s unique approach to marketing and finding the right buyers for the property, there is promise of full occupancy quickly. “We work for the developer; we don’t take buyers elsewhere. That means finding the right market to fit a property,” said Warkentin. “We then connect those potential homeowners to the right suite within the Gellatly development.” Gellatly Place is at 4215 Gellatly Road in West Kelowna. www.gellatlyplace.com

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