Business Examiner Thompson/Okanagan - September 2017

SEPTEMBER 2017

» MEETING PLACES

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KELOWNA Points West Audio Visual, Acoustics and Healthcare brings technology to new level with Virtual Nurse Cari

Thompson/Okanagan WWW.BUSINESSEXAMINER.CA

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WEST KELOWNA J. Wright Plumbing and Heating has serviced clients in the Kelowna region for 50 years

Heritage Ranch Rebrands Traditional Method Sparkling Wine With Two Tasting Rooms and a Chef Operated Bistro, Fitz Wine brings Sparkle to 110 Year Ranch BETH HENDRY-YIM

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INDEX News Update

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Kamloops 4 Kelowna 5 Movers and Shakers 20 Opinion 22 GreenSheet 23

Contact us: 1-866-758-2684

OUR 8TH YEAR

EACHLAND - Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards, producers of traditional method sparkling wine, recently opened its doors to both a new tasting room and restaurant, FITZ Bistro.

The new winery opened on April 10, 2017, comes with a rich history dating back to 1895 when George Great pre-empted the land, built a five-mile flume to irrigate the land and then planted 50 acres of apples.

Although the ranch changed hands several times over the ensuing years, it also expanded to include 130 acres of peaches, pears and cherries. But in 1966, the orchard was hit hard by a cold Okanagan winter and never recovered to its former glory.

“We purchased Greata Ranch, in 1994 and did extensive clean up,” said Gordon Fitzpatrick, president of Fitzpatrick Family SEE FITZPATRICK | PAGE 15

Under Gordon and Ross’ management, CedarCreek Estate Winery became a two-time Canadian Winery of the Year award winner CREDIT:FITZPATRICK FAMILY VINEYARDS

Record Number of Commercial Building Awards Finalists Thompson Okanagan Kootenay Regions Will Be Well Represented in September 28 Gala in Kelowna

Canadian Publications Mail Acct.: 40069240

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ELOWNA – A record 37 finalists have been announced for the 9th Annual Thompson Okanagan Kootenay Commercial Building Awards, set for Thursday, September 28 at Manteo Resort.

“This is the most finalists we’ve ever had, and the variety and diversity of the entries is outstanding,” says Mark MacDonald of Business Examiner Thompson Okanagan, which coordinates the event, adding that just over half

of the finalists are from the city of Kelowna. “It seems the level of excellence rises each year in commercial and industrial buildings in the region.”

Black Press is a Media Sponsor for the event, with Gold Sponsors RE/

MAXCommercial, MNPLLP and the Southern Interior Construction Association. Category sponsors include WoodworksBC, RBCRoyalBank and Greensheet Construction Review.

SEE AWARDS | PAGE 23

2 KELOWNA IKEA Announces Three New Collection Points for BC Residents Shoppi ng at I K E A ju st got more convenient for customers in Victoria, Kelowna, and Nanaimo, British Columbia with the launch of three collection points.

Customers can now shop online for IKEA home furnishings and have them delivered to their selected Collection Point for only $79, regardless of the size and value of their purchase.

This means they will be able to ship as little as a single sofa or as much as an entire kitchen for a flat rate and represents significant savings over the average home delivery fee of $170.

Customers who wish to take advantage of home delivery can still do so, with the delivery fees remaining the same.

The Collection Points are not IKEA stores and are owned by third party service provider XPO. While they do not have any products available for purchase, Collection Points allow IKEA to make shopping easier in markets that have been identified as having potential.

“In such a large country, it is important to offer a variety of solutions we can use to make shopping easier for Canadians,”

NEWS UPDATE s a y s I K E A C a n a d a P r e s ident Marsha Smith. “Launching these locations was a natural next step to make shopping online affordable for many more British Columbia residents.”

It is IKEA’s aim to make the brand more accessible and convenient for the many Canadians, through increased service offerings like Collection Points, Pick-up and order points, Click & Col lect, i mprovements i n ecommerce and customer-focused distribution. IKEA hopes to provide its customers with a positive IKEA experience in every touchpoint. The collection point locations include: Victoria – XPO, 2205 Keating Cross Road, Sannichton, V8M 2A5, Kelowna – XPO, 2255 Norris Road South, Kelowna, V1X 4R2 and Nanaimo – XPO, 4386 Boban Drive, Nanaimo, V8T 6A7.

KELOWNA City of Kelowna Acquires Land The City of Kelowna has made a significant land acquisition of 140 acres at 4690 Highway 97 N for $11 million.

“As our city continues to grow, large parcels of land give us the flexibility to meet future community needs,” said Mayor Colin Basran. “The property is close to the university campus, the City

SEPTEMBER 2017

landfill and the international airport and has features that could help with flood protection.”

The property is comprised of vacant parcels on either side of the highway and contains several important natural features, notably Carney Pond and the surrounding wetland areas.

With a commitment to balancing the needs of the community with environmental protection and agricultural opportunities, the City invests in key parcels of land such as this one to serve the community in numerous ways.

“The City is committed to working with the Agricultural Land commission to identify opportunities to improve agriculture as outlined in the City’s Agricultural Plan,” said Director of Strategic Investments Derek Edstrom.

“The land in this case could also create new public spaces, fulfill civic needs, provide drainage solutions for nearby creeks and facilitate key transportation networks including connections for Hollywood Road North and the Central Okanagan Multi-Modal Corridor.”

The acquisition was funded through City reserves, with no impact on general taxation.

KAMLOOPS Annual Report Available on bclc.com

BC Lottery Corporation has released four reports detailing its performance in fiscal yea r 2016/17 i n the a reas of financial performance, social responsibility, executive compensation and service provider commissions.

BCLC’s results in these areas stri ke the rig ht ba la nce between creating great entertainment experiences, upholding our social responsibility promise, and meeting our financial targets, to deliver on its commitments to the Province and people of British Colu mbia.

BCLC posted a net income of $1.339 bi l l ion i n f i sca l yea r 2016/17, exceeding the previous year’s net income by $25.5 million. Managing business in a socially responsible manner is key to achieving BCLC’s vision. In the 2016/17 Social Responsibility Report, the results of their social responsibility efforts and how gambling proceeds are being invested into communities. The 2016/17 Social Responsibility Report can be viewed online.

BCLC is required to annually disclose all compensation provided to the CEO and the next four highest paid executives.

Since 1985, BCLC has been helping communities grow and more than $20 billion has been invested back into the Province for healthcare, education and community programs.

BC No Tuition for Adult Basic Education and English Language Learning Programs The British Columbia government is eliminating tuition fees on Adult Basic Education (ABE) and English Language Learning (ELL) programs, opening the door for tens of thousands of people to upgrade their education and skills every year.

T he recent a n nou ncement at Camosun College reverses action taken by the previous government in 2015 to impose tuition fees for ABE and ELL learners. Under that 2015 policy, Adult Basic Education and English Language Learning fees were set by each institution up to a maximum of $1,600 per semester of full-time studies, the equivalent of the average cost of tuition for an arts and science undergraduate program. Enrolment in Adult Basic Education and English Language Learning programs subsequently dropped almost 35 per cent from 10,244 f u l l-ti me equ iva lent spaces in 2013-14 to 6,692 full-time equivalent spaces in 2016-17.

RESTRUCTURING HELPS EMPLOYERS OVER THE HURDLES OF WORK RELATED INJURIES Diversified Rehabilitation Group is a onestop-shop for employers and employees managing disability claims

D

erek Sienko, president and chief executive officer of Diversified Rehabilitation Group is a strong advocate of best practices for Workplace Health and Wellness. After suffering a debilitating hand injury and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, as well as having over 18 years of professional experience in disability management, he knows first-hand the physical and psychological challenges the injured worker and employer faces.

“In 2011 and 2012 Statistics Canada showed that the estimated direct cost of absenteeism averaged 2/4 per cent of gross annual payroll, which translates to a loss of $16.6 billion to the Canadian economy,” he said.

Established in 2000, Diversified provides disability management and return-towork services to small, medium and large organizations throughout BC. “With the legal hurdles and privacy issues employers have to face, it’s important to get it right. We provide assistance and support for both the employer and the employee.”

By focusing on a team approach, and staying attentive to both employer and employee needs Diversified manages the legal components of an injured worker and the specific health issues. Its professionals

“We focus on a team approach, staying attentive to both employer and employee needs.”

DEREK SIENKO CEO, PRESIDENT DIVERSIFIED REHABILIATION GROUP

are experts in return-to-work rehabilitation and are suitable for any size of organization and disability claim.

Recently, DRG was recognized for its work with a 2016 Business Excellence Award for the Mid-Size (11-50 employees) Business of the Year Award. Not only has the business seen significant growth in the past ten years, but Sienko also created an initiative to support the Kidney Foundation of BC and Yukon by encouraging companies to offer employees a chance to register for organ donation as a standard practise.

It also hosts an annual Organizational Health and Wellness Summit. The summit brings together leading-edge speakers and presenters with interactive sessions and informative displays. The theme for 2018 is “Let’s Talk Solutions” and will take place in June in Kelowna.

Diversified Rehabilitation Services has locations in Richmond, Vancouver, Burnaby and Kelowna. It offers effective Return-To-Work programs as well as provides claims management for WorkSafeBC, and short and long-term physical and psychological disability claims. www.diversifiedrehab.ca

NEWS UPDATE

SEPTEMBER 2017

OKANAGAN Strong Residential Sales Despite Summer Slowdown Residential sales in the Okanagan region of Revelstoke to Peachland moderated slightly in July, with 961 sales posted to the Multiple Listing Service, down 6 per cent from June, and just 2 per cent fewer than July last year reports the Okanagan Mainline Real Estate Board (OMREB).

“While sales activity typically slows over the summer months, w ith th is Ju ly no exception, pricing and days on market continue to show strong demand for available housing supply,” says OMREB President and active Central Okanagan Realtor Tanis Read.

At $504,712, the average July price in the region was a mere 1 per cent lower than June and 6 per cent higher than this time last year, while days on market, or the average time it takes to sell a home, was 63 in July, as compared to 73 in June and 79 last year.

“Although these figures offer a general overview of market conditions, averages tell only part of the story and prospective buyers and sellers can benefit from consulting a real estate professional about how current conditions impact the neighbourhood or housing type of interest,”

comments Read.

“One might be surprised at how sales and pricing within certain communities and/or housing types can run counter to general market conditions,” notes Read.

Year to date, buyers of homes in the region served by OMREB were primarily those who already live in the area, at 56 per cent, with first-time buyers accounting for 20 per cent of the buying population, followed by moveup buyers at 17 per cent. Buyers from the Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island accounted for 19 per cent, followed by Alberta buyers at 10 per cent, with buyers from outside Canada comprising a mere 2 per cent, according to a monthly survey that OMREB has conducted since 2010.

“OMREB collects this data to inform our knowledge of the m a rket a nd cu r rent t rend s, which, in turn, enhances our members’ service to Okanagan real estate consumers,” says Read, noting that, since survey inception, buyers have largely been those who already live in the region. While Alberta buyers were the next populous group until 2015, this group has since been displaced by buyers from the Lower Mainland/Vancouver Island.

OMREB serves three diverse m a rkets w it h i n t he reg ion: the Centra l Oka naga n Zone (Peachland to Lake Country), the North Zone (Predator Ridge

INCREASING BID TO WIN RATIO and taken to the next level.

Part of the secret in winning is working on the core beliefs Sandler Training Workshop one holds around presenting a Teaches Strategies For bid, quote, estimate or formal proposal. Are you setting the Leveraging The Best Proposal groundwork for the most imThat Wins Contracts pressive bid? This workshop is suitable for anyone dealing with informal or formal bidding, uoting and hoping is not a quoting or estimating. It introgreat sales strategy. duces new strategies and tactics Businesses that rely on that will raise the ante on your submitting bids and quotes can’t quote presentations. afford to have a low bid to win Communication is key, at all ratio. After all, there’s a lot of levels, in addition to developtime and resources that go into ing the right knowledge base each quote. Estimators not only and attitude. Add it all together have to know their stuff, they When: Wednesday, October 4,the 2017 and you have tools to create a also have to be able to sell it and plan of action to effectively win then measure their success 1:00 pm rate.

- 4:30more pmbids.

A lot of people hide behind the Check out the fall schedule and word “Sales” and don’t want to Where: Sandler Training learnCenter the best strategy for turnadmit the horrendous amount ing hoping for increased bids of time and money wasted BC on Kelowna, into winning increased bids. quoting and hoping.

Call 1-866-314-3410 or visit The ideal is to win more bids by www.glennon.sandler.com to Details: www.glennon.sandler.com submitting fewer proposals and register. that doesn’t necessarily translate to submitting the lowest.

Looking at the whole process and bidding strategically is key.

This fall, Sandler Training will conduct a workshop on how to deal with Bids and Quotes.

It doesn’t matter what industry you are in, bidding and quoting cross industry boundaries.

It’s about learning how to leverage any proposal so it is accepted

to Enderby) and the ShuswapRevelstoke Zone (Salmon Arm to Revelstoke).

For detailed statistics specific to each of the three regions served by OMREB, visit www. omreb.com.

KELOWNA Westcorp Submits Redesign After earning approval from Kelowna council in August 2014 and facing numerous delays, the project slated for the site of the former Willow Inn is underway.

Edmonton-based Westcorp has redesigned the original project and submitted a new development permit application.

The initial proposal called for a 24-storey tower with 214 rooms and a conference centre. The new design includes 49 for-sale condos, 174 hotel rooms, a 16th-floor sky restaurant, conference centre, restaurant and coffee shop on the ground level as well as retail spaces in the lobby. The new proposal calls for a 32-storey building to be constructed.

Construction was supposed to begin last year, but design issues caused an initial six-month delay which was then extended by Westcorp as they explored design revisions.

The revisions also included changes to parking placement

by reducing the amount of above ground parking spaces. Under the new plan, Westcorp will construct 156 hotel and public parking stalls underground and 133 residential stalls above ground.

Westcorp is planning on having the development permit application before city council later this year which, if approved, would allow for construction to begin sometime in 2018. Construction is expected to take roughly 30 months.

VERNON Sustainability Grant Program Launched The City of Vernon is launching the 2017 - 2018 Sustainability Grants program to encourage community participation in sustainable action while recognizing current and ongoing sustainability projects in Vernon. Small grants between $500 and $1000 will be available as an incentive to accelerate sustainability projects led by Vernon residents, youth, non-profit organizations and community groups.

“The Sustainability Grant program is an opportunity for the community to get involved and build their own ideas from the ground up,” said Jing Niu, Environmental Planning Assistant with the City of Vernon. “Projects could include establishing

3 or improving a neighbourhood community garden, building educational or demonstration displays of conservation by students or youth groups, or undertaking energy and greenhouse gas emission reduction projects.”

Application for the Sustainability Grants will be accepted between August 21 and November 14 and recommendations will be reviewed by City Council on December 10. Applications will be evaluated on how the proposed projects help achieve the City’s sustainability goals, who the project would benefit, and the overall impact of the project on the community. Successful grant recipients will have until September 2018 to complete their respective projects.

“The City of Vernon is committed to working towards a sustainable future,” said Niu. “Since 2008, the City has initiated a variety of community engagement and education programs to support environmental stewardship and community sustainability. The City’s sustainability goals include ecosystem and ecological conservation, energy conservation and greenhouse gas emissions reduction, local food and agriculture, water quality protection and conservation, stewardship and sustainability.”

Dealing with Bids & Quotes Struggling with Bids, Quotes and Proposals?

In this workshop, you will learn:

✔ How to distinguish the 70% of buyers who ask for a discount even though the quote is within their budget. ✔ Skills to combat discount requests and win the job without giving up a dime of your gross profit. ✔ How to avoid falling for pressure techniques at the time of sale. ✔ Negation tactics to win more business.

Q

When:

Wednesday, October 4, 2017 - 1:00 pm - 4:30 pm

Where:

Sandler Training Center, Kelowna, BC

Details:

www.glennon.sandler.com

www.glennon.sandler.com

®

* Unfortunately seating is limited, you must pre-register and pre-qualify to attend

KAMLOOPS

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SEPTEMBER 2017

THE EFFECTS OF WILDFIRES TOUCH EVERYONE

THOMPSON OKANAGAN TOURISM GLENN MANDZIUK

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t h a s b e e n a n i n c re dibly cha l leng i ng su m mer throughout our beautiful Province of BC as residents and visitors alike have had to leave their communities as a result of extreme wildfire conditions.

Some have been on notice for days or weeks while others have had only moments to pack up and leave. Either way all share the uncertainty that has led to sleepless nights and frightening days while they wait for what may come next.

T he sheer force of Mot her Nature has been immense and

unpredictable; it has ravaged the la nd a nd any th ing in its way. Through all this, countless men and women have continued to work tirelessly at the unenviable ta sk of br i ng i ng u nder control something that seems insurmountable; the wins are small, take much time, effort and patience.

On a different scale, it is also a very difficult time for our tourism industry stakeholders that are in communities not directly affected by wildfires but who are definitely seeing the negative impact of media reporting

and messaging that paints the entire province with an air of devastation. Starting with a grave misunderstanding of the words “Province-Wide State of Emergency” and continuing with phraseology such as “BC is Burning” or “Smokey Skies and Poor Air Quality” the result is unprecedented with cancellations in numerous locations that are otherwise unaffected parts of our province and region.

Much of our tourism community is comprised of entrepreneurs and small business owners that realize the major share of their

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broadcasts.

Making sure that residents and visitors are informed and safe is paramount to be sure, but sensationalizing stories and inaccurate reporting hurts everyone. Without question, news stories in communities of Ashcroft, Cache Creek, Williams Lake, Princeton and the devastation in Lake Country and the Kootenays is terrible and all of those folks as well as their livestock will need our support and assistance for weeks and months to come. But there is another terrible story brewing around the province and it is one we also must all work together to control and combat……the victims of this year’s wildfires span every region…

Glenn Mandziuk is President and Chief Executive Officer of the Thompson Okanagan Tourism Region. He can be reached at ceo@ totabc.com

REVISIT YOUR GOALS FOR A PRODUCTIVE FALL

KAMLOOPS DEB MCLELLAND

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Ext 122

250-801-5050

revenues during the busy summer season. It is to be sure a very fragile economy and revenues lost as a result of fire activity may be something many of these businesses may never come back from. T h is cha l lenge is a lso faced by tourism operators in areas not directly impacted by fires where there have been crippling business losses largely due to inaccurate media messaging and reporting.

The fire season has hit parts of the province hard, however, there is less than 1 per cent of the entire province of British Columbia that is actually experiencing wildfires. Air quality in those affected areas is poor but in much of the province continues to be at 2 – 3 on a scale of 10, something that is both normal and considered low risk. T he sk ies a re blue and the weather is what our visitors usually wish for, but you will be hard pressed to hear that in most television or radio

or anyone NOT in the tourism industry, Summer is often a time of regeneration, family and friends. It’s a time to step back and recharge our batteries. Then, almost too quickly, September hits us. We are faced with a flurry of activity; kids go back to school, business ramps up, and our focus is challenged.

According to small business coach Jeff Torrans f rom Jet Leadership, the three strategies that will make your fall the most productive are: Revisit your goals! You can still hit them with a bit of effort. Don’t have goals? Watch a goal setting video.

Measure! Measure your profit, funnel, referrals, revenue numbers (whatever metrics give you the best insight) as compared to this time last year. Try not to forget how far you have already come.

Call your hottest prospect/best customer right now! Seriously, stop reading and start dialing.

There is nothing better than landing a big fish to finish the year!

Regardless of what you do, remember the true path to success lies in action, everyday.

Fall is also the time that we gea r up for a busy season of events, relationship building and new programs and services at the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce.

September 7 th , watch for the finalist’s announcement for our 31st annual Business Excellence Awards. Don’t forget to secure your 2017 Business Excellence Awards Gala tickets as soon as possible. This premier Kamloops business celebration sells out year after year. For details on single or group tickets visit our website: www.kamloopschamber.ca and follow the link.

Connect 2017 will be held on September 20th from 4-7 pm.

T his member-only exhibitor tradeshow is open to public attendance and draws hundreds to the Coast Convention Centre in Kamloops. It sets the stage for fall sales for many exhibitors. If you have not secured your booth, contact our office for details. And it’s free to attend!

This year at our Connect 2017 Tradeshow we will be unveiling our new suite of Member 2 Member Value Added Programs. The offering companies are local, and the offers are world class.

Finally, our membership survey started last week. This intensive survey is an opportunity for members to guide the Chamber through critically valuable feedback. What we hear will help set our future vision and align our services to your business needs.

Deb McClelland is the executive director of the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached email at deb@kamloopschamber.ca.

KELOWNA

SEPTEMBER 2017

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SEPTEMBER AND WE SHIFT INTO HIGH(ER) GEAR

KELOWNA DAN ROGERS

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he smoke across the prov i nce cont i nues to l i n ge r a n d p e opl e a re still seeking ways to enjoy the remaining days of summer, so it must be the perfect time to talk about corporate tax policy.

Okay, it isn’t likely to be top of mind, but it is getting a lot of attention in Kelowna, and with other Chambers across the country, following the recent release of a federal govern ment consu ltation paper that proposes significant tax policy changes.

The Department of Finance Canada is considering major changes as to how corporations are taxed. The proposed rules could have a significant impact on many Canadian businesses: potentially raising taxes, increasi ng the ad m i n istrative burden on SMEs and heightening the impact on family-run businesses.

Federal Finance Minister Bill Morneau released a consultation paper that outl i nes the proposed changes and initiated

a 75-day consultation process du ri ng wh ich Fi na nce Ca nada will accept submissions on these proposals. The Kelowna Chamber, along with the Canadian Chamber and other business organizations are raising the red flag and expressing major concern over the proposed cha nges wh ich cou ld have a significantly negative impact on small businesses.

T he Kelow na Cha mber is hoping the federal government listens to the concerns being expressed, and re-examines the proposed changes; or at the very least, extends the consultation period so the full impact of the significant alterations could be better understood.

For the genera l publ ic th is is being framed as going after “those rich people” and closi ng “loop holes”, but to t he small business owners who are the backbone of the Canadian economy and have risked quite a bit to start up and run their businesses, this could punish them and become a disincentive for others to take risks in running their own businesses. That could have a major impact on job growth and on our economy.

“We believe in the principle of hav i ng a fa i r ta x system, but are concerned some of the proposed changes could have a negative impact on entrepreneurs and family owned small businesses,” says Tom Dyas, Kelowna Chamber President.

“We are pleased that Stephen Fuhr, our local MP, has at least reached out to us a nd ot her business leaders in Kelowna to hear our concerns, and we w i l l work w ith ou r nationa l

partners to do the same across the country.”

The Kelowna Chamber understands and supports the federal government’s desire to ensure tax fairness for Canada’s middle class, but wants to ensu re the i mpact of a ny prop osed ch a nges a re f u l ly u ndersto o d pr ior to i mplementation so as to avoid unintended consequences that cou ld negatively i mpact the economy.

T he Ca nad ia n Cha mber of Com merce a nd its Ta xation Com m ittee a re cu rrently study i ng how t he proposed changes will affect members in different industries, in family busi nesses a nd those w ith d i f ferent ow nersh ip st r uct u res. T hey a re subm it t i ng recommendations to Finance Canada.

T he issue of tax policy will no doubt be centre stage at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce AGM that is slated for late September in Fredericton, New Brunswick, but it won’t be the only issue.

T he Kelowna Chamber will be represented at the national conference and will be tabling a policy resolution that calls on the Federal Government to reinvigorate its efforts to prevent the spread of zebra and quagga mussels. This invasive species has devastated many lakes across the continent but has yet to enter BC’s f reshwaters. If it does, its impact on marine life and ultimately on the tourism sector, would be massive. T he Kelowna Chamber has been leading the charge on this important issue

and will once again raise it at the Canadian Chamber AGM in Fredericton. Among other recommendations, the policy calls on the feds to introduce mandatory inspections of all watercra f t enteri ng Ca nada from the US, match provincial spending on inter-provincial inspection stations already in operation, and establish fulltime seasonal inspections at provincial crossings in Banff and Jasper National Parks.

••• T he Kelowna Chamber was not surprised by the provincial government’s recent announcement that they will be increasing the minimum wage as they had campaigned on it.

T he short term increase was also announced previously by the Libera l govern ment. On the issue of minimum wage, our members had previously indicated that they were opposed to an immediate jump to $15/hour but they also identified the more important need to have clarity and certainty around labour costs.

T he rea l ity is t h at a ny i ncrease i n labou r costs has a sig n i fica nt i mpact on sma l l bu si nesses a nd m a ny t i mes t hose costs a re passed onto consumers in the form of higher prices; or, there is a reduction i n hou rs bei ng worked, so there can be a ripple effect on the economy. Many of our members a re cu rrently paying above minimum wage in order to attract and retain a skilled workforce (the current average hou rly wage i n Kelowna is approximately $24/ hour). Addressing the broader

labour force needs is a bigger issue for many of our members and that is where government policy on affordable housing, skills training, the use of foreign workers has the potential to have a bigger impact than a small increase to the minimum wage.

Most of our members are of the opinion that any future increase in the minimum wage should be tied to increases in the consumer price index, so hopefully that is an outcome of the work of the proposed Fair Wage Commission.

••• T he Kelow na Cha mber is gearing up for its Annual Business Excellence Awards. The Annual Dinner Celebration is slated for October 12th at the Delta Grand Okanagan. It is shaping up to be another fabulous even i ng. T he Cha mber received 162 nominations for nine different awards, and the judges are poised to make their decisions in September.

••• Finally, we wish to welcome our newest Chamber Members this month: Canadian Rooter Plu mb ers; Fa moso P i zzer ia & Bar; Globally Fair; Fraser Fina ncia l Group/Gronsda h l Wealth Management; Kaizen Institute Canada (BC) Ltd.; Elemental Structural Engineers, Ltd. and Hergott Law.

the problem.

▪ Request feedback. A customer likes to be heard – and why shouldn’t they? They’re paying for a service and want to be handled to their liking. Insist that they rate you and give their feedback so that you can better service their needs. This is mutually beneficial as you’ll grow as a professional and they’ll likely continue to do business with you.

▪ K eep a long-ter m m i ndset. There’s no quick fix when it comes to customer service.

Companies that thrive invest in long-term training that the tackles behaviors, attitudes and techniques that are essential to customer service.

Customer service has often been called the “frontline” of an organization. When executed properly, a happy customer will share their positive experience which will ultimately lead to referrals and positive wordof-mouth marketing. What are some of your customer service

best practices?

Dan Rogers is the Executive Director of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce. To find out more information about the organization please visit www. kelownachamber.org.

SIX WAYS TO IMPROVE CUSTOMER SERVICE

CUSTOMER SERVICE LUCY GLENNON

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ou know good customer service when you experience it. It’s hard to explain at times when it’s not so great, but it’s easy to recognize when a customer service agent has gone above and beyond to make sure you’re satisfied.

At some p oi nt, ever y d ay, everyone is a customer. A good customer service experience is something that everyone can relate to – so what is it that makes for an exquisite customer service touchpoint?

Because of word-of-mouth and

social media, companies can’t afford to provide less than stellar customer service. Sandler Training teaches companies how to focus on the fundamentals of customer service due to its direct impact on the bottom line.

Whether you’re in B2C or B2B sales, the following tips are tried and true and will help your company reap the rewards that come with exceptional customer care.

▪ Ask questions upfront. From the very beginning of a customer relationship, it’s crucial to know exactly what’s expected. This allows for you to manage expectations and also gauge what your customer will consider a success. If you’ve heard Sandler mention the “upfront contract” you know it all starts at this step.

▪ L i s t e n to y o u r c u s to mer. W hen a customer speaks, you should be listening. This is when you’ll discover their pain and identify where you’ll really be able to make an impact and move the needle for their business. Additionally, sometimes a

customer just needs an outside opinion to ‘hear them.’ This is when you’ll establish that trusting relationship salespeople long for.

▪ Communicate regularly. A good business practice is to always be ahead of your customer.

They should never be wondering when they’ll be hearing from you. Make it your practice to establish regular communications. And if there’s a particular situation that needs tending to, make sure you’re on top of the need and communicating accordingly. Remember, you’re there to make their job easier and more efficient.

▪ Be sincere. This should go without saying, but your efforts and communications with your customers should be nothing short of sincere. Take a moment and put yourself in their shoes.

If it’s important and pressing to them then make sure they know you understand their concerns and needs. Then, do your best to provide solutions to remedy

Lucy Glennon specializes in customer service training and recruitment and hiring. She can be reached at 866-645-2047 or lucyg@ hireguru.com. www.hireguru.ca.

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SEPTEMBER 2017

TECHNOLOGY MAKES FOR SAFER ENVIRONMENT IN RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITIES A WiFi enabled, location based, staff assist solution system provides an added level of safety and freedom for frontline workers and residents

K

ELOWNA - With a simple push of a button, new technology is making residential care homes safer environments in which to work and live.

Points West Aud io Visual, Acoustics and Healthcare, after extensive research and development and in partnership with Shaw Business Solutions, is now providing a WiFi enabled, location based, staff assist solution system that, when activated, sends out an alert in real time. Named Virtual Nurse Cari for short, it’s a simplified technology that is providing both dignity and safety in residential care homes.

“If a care aid or nurse needs assistance to move a resident in bed, they don’t have to leave the room, they simply push a button, another worker gets the signal via a healthcare grade mobile phone and then goes directly to the location to give help,” said Tracey Cochrane, owner of Points West.

“It cuts down on time spent placing a phone call or walking to a nursing station and getting help, which in turn allows more time to care for the residents.”

Cochrane added that most importantly is the safety factor that Cari provides, discreetly monitoring the environment and the residents’ and aides’ whereabouts with ambient intelligence.

If a resident becomes violent or aggressive, pushing the button alerts in real time so help can come quickly.

“It’s a balance between safety and dignity and the complexities of assisted care,” she said. “Points West’s Cari safety system gives

According to Tracey Cochrane adding technology to meetings and boardrooms takes presentations to a higher, more professional level CREDIT:POINTS WEST AV

“We were looking to branch into healthcare but wanted technology that would fill a gap in residential care and safety.”

TRACEY COCHRANE OWNER, POINTS WEST AUDIO-VISUAL ACOUSTICS AND HEALTHCARE

SEE POINTS WEST | PAGE 7

We supply sound, not equipment.

Tracey Cochrane has been introducing ground breaking tech to BC students, health care workers and corporations since she and her family moved to Kelowna in 2009

Key players at Points West include, from left to right: Brent Loewen, Manager Healthcare, Beau Langevin, Sales Manager Audio Visual and Teresa Reinhold, Office Manager

CREDIT:POINTS WEST AV

CREDIT:POINTS WEST AV

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7

SEPTEMBER 2017

POINTS WEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

Points West provided a sponsorship for several organizations including, Chilliwack’s Society for Community Living and the Kinsmen Lodge CREDIT:POINTS WEST AV

The addition of an Acoustics Division has driven growth for Points West AV

Tracey Cochrane and the BC Care Providers Association CEO, Daniel Fontaine, at a recent BCCPA Conference

CREDIT:POINTS WEST AV

CREDIT:POINTS WEST AV

patients freedom to explore the grounds of the care facility without physical constraints, while ensuring the facility is constantly aware of the whereabouts of a patient. If a staff member needs immediate assistance, the emergency call can direct a code white team to intervene effectively and efficiently.”

The healthcare division of Points West is a new addition to the company’s offerings of cutting edge technology starting a little over a year ago through brainstorming sessions with its employees and other major stakeholders.

“We were looking to branch into healthcare but wanted technology that would fill a gap in residential care and safety. In talking with people in the field we realized that some kind of alert button that was simple, easy and unobtrusive to wear and activate, would be a useful tool.”

Cochrane explained that once Points West found a manufacturer, it was a matter of finding the right connections to move forward.

“At the Women’s Enterprise Centre it was suggested that I speak with Accelerate Okanagan.

It’s a leading business accelerator for tech companies in the startup or growing phases. It helped us validate our market for the product. They were phenomenal in helping us hone our message.”

During the process of fine tuning the marketing and messaging about the Cari Safety System, Cochrane said that she and the research and development at Points West spoke with various groups and individuals within the industry, including nurses’ aides, owners of resident care facilities, WorkSafe BC, and family members of those in care. The goal was to get a clear picture of what would work best, minimizing damage and stress to residents and frontline workers. The finished product is an impressive piece of technology that is now supported by the BC Care Providers Association.

“We joined the BC Care Providers Association, which is the SEE POINTS WEST | PAGE 8

Closer To Better Care Effective communication ensures staff mobility and provides the level of patient care required in leading healthcare facilities. By optimizing workflow between patient and clinician, Ascom solutions help enhance patient satisfaction and boost caregiver productivity.

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POINTS WEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

largest association representing the senior’s care sector in British Columbia. They have been a huge support, including having us participate in the Safety Den event at the May 2017 conference. The event looked at different submissions and then judged which was the best for safety development.”

For Cochrane, introducing new technology is not a foreign concept. She has been introducing ground breaking tech to BC students, health care workers and corporations since she and her family moved to Kelowna in 2009 and discovered that her daughter’s Grade 1 classroom was minus a SMART Interactive White Board.

“In Alberta, all the elementary schools had SM A RT Boards.

When we moved here and took my oldest daughter to her grade one class, I was surprised to find out that her class did not have the technology. With SMART Boards, teachers can do so much more with their students, engaging the children in the way they learn today.”

Points West was originally established in 1992 by Rick Ponich.

Twenty-six years ago, high end and cutting-edge audio-visual equipment was expensive with many businesses not being able to afford the high-ticket price. Ponich saw a niche market, purchased equipment and began renting it out. The business thrived as

SMART boards in the classroom provide tech savvy students and teachers with more engaging learning opportunities CREDIT:POINTS WEST AV

it provided screens and video equipment for businesses and local school districts that may not have been able or willing to pay

the high-ticket price of owning.

“Eventually Rick also began selling the various pieces of equipment and became established as

a regular supplier for the school district,” Cochrane explained.

“When I heard about his company I talked him into hiring me.

I started part time and helped him develop a website and talk to parents about tech in the classroom.

I ended up falling in love with the business and the technology.

When Rick started talking about

retiring, I said I would buy the business and purchased it in July of 2011.”

For Cochrane, Points West is all about educating businesses and people in the value of enhancing presentations, meetings and seminars with audio visual SEE POINTS WEST | PAGE 9

After extensive research and development and in a partnership with Shaw Business Solutions, Points West is now providing Virtual Nurse Cari CREDIT:POINTS WEST AV

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SEPTEMBER 2017

Since Cochrane first started with Points West it has branched out, reaching and servicing school districts, health care facilities, government agencies and corporations across BC CREDIT:POINTS WEST AV

POINTS WEST CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

equipment.

“For large or small presentations, specialized equipment will not only amplify the speaker’s voice but also take it to another level of professionalism.”

She added that once educators, corporations and government

agencies see how easy it is to use and how information is shared more effectively, they embrace the technology.

“When I first purchased the company, it was focused on education, but when the teachers went on strike several years ago, we needed to look beyond education. That’s when we started looking at diversifying into other

Cari, a staff assist solution system, when activated, sends an alert in real time

markets for audio visual equipment and added acoustics.”

She explained that acoustics is more than just sound proofing a room; it can come in varying degrees from wall paneling to sound dampening technology.

“Four years ago, we were asked to install a sound system in a church because the acoustics were so poor that people weren’t hearing the messages. Instead of spending a lot of money on a sound system, we suggested they fix the acoustics. We did, saved them money and they are very happy with the result.”

Adding the acoustics division was a savvy move for Points West.

Cochrane said that there is a real harmony between audio visual and acoustics. The addition has driven growth for the company with service reaching throughout B.C. “We are now reaching more markets with both divisions and not just for meeting rooms, but also community halls, medical and corporate offices, opticians, veterinary centers and, lately, wineries. One newer establishment found that the materials used for constructing its tasting room prevented clients from hearing servers demonstrate the different types of products. How likely are people to buy or hang

out if they can’t hear what is being said?”

She went on to explain that Points West installed different types of products like panels to absorb sound on the walls that looked aesthetically pleasing and other technology to dampen it.

“We look at the client’s space that needs better acoustics, take measurements, understand the issues and needs of the space, whether its privacy or clarity of sound, and then provide choices from good to better to best.

Our latest projects included the University of British Columbia, Tightrope Winery and Okanagan College, and for audio visual design and installation include the Interior Health building in downtown Kelowna, and 13 meeting rooms at BC Hydro’s new head office in Vernon.”

Cochrane, who has a real passion for technology, said that in her family’s home, her husband has set up a media room where he can watch an NFL game on a central, large main projector with two additional screens on either side.

“It’s not as though we don’t use our own technology,” she said, laughing. “There are times that he has three games going at once.”

With Points West being very familiar with its technology, it makes sure customers get the full benefit of the AV equipment, providing the extensive training needed to get things up and running.

“We want clients to be comfortable with the technology so that it gets used!”

As education and the workplace become more digitally and electronically savvy, incorporating technology into presentations and meetings adds a level of sophistication and collaboration.

It also saves time by automating and simplifying tasks like emailing notes or sharing presentations and lesson plans with a network of students or employees.

To highlight the latest and newest technology, Points West has hosted an annual Technology Showcase. In its fourth year, the event brings together manufacturers to demonstrate what is available in the industry.

“We have hourly presentations from manufacturers like

Epson, Sharp, SMART, Copernicus, Lightspeed, Toa, Hovercam, Anchor and Chief as well as an acoustics display. It takes up two big ballrooms with between 25 and 30 vendors. Each year the number of attendees grows and they come from throughout BC. This year’s Points West Tech Showcase is being held on October 19, in Kelowna at the Ramada Hotel. Registration is through Eventbrite.”

Cochrane’s family has embraced the Okanagan lifestyle, including giving back through charitable work. Cochrane sits on the board of several groups including Starbright Children’s Development Centre and the Arthritis Society.

“I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and helping out with the Society is very close to my heart as is helping at the centre. But as a family and company we support many other organizations through donations of equipment, money or our staff’s time.”

Since Cochrane first started with Points West it has branched out, reaching and servicing school districts, health care facilities, government agencies and corporations across BC. As a member of the International Communications Industries Association (ICIA), Points Wests follows industry standards set by a global accreditation body and stays current with all its technology.

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SEPTEMBER 2017

J. WRIGHT PLUMBING & HEATING MARKING ITS 50TH ANNIVERSARY “One thing that hasn’t changed since day one is doing honest and dependable service and treating the client with the respect they’re due.”

Plumbing & Heating Firm Services Clients Located Across The Kelowna Region

W

EST KELOW NA – A fi x tu re i n the community for more than half a century, J. Wright Plumbing & Heating Ltd. has grown with the community it has been serving, to include a wider product line and a broader customer base – and the company has even greater plans for the future. “It all started in 1967 when Jim Wright opened his first shop, a business he ran until the 1980s when he retired,” explained Rob Keller, one of the firm’s current owners.

“Then like now the company offered a range of services, including full plumbing and heating, gas fitting and in a lesser capacity custom sheet metal work. The work we do today may be essentially the same, but thanks to changes in technology and the growth of the community, we now offer products that didn’t exist when he first opened for business and to a much larger service area.”

Currently located at 1880 Byland Road in West Kelowna, J. Wright Plumbing & Heating routinely services clients located all across Kelowna, West Kelowna, Peachland and the surrounding areas. Housed in a 5,000 square foot facility (2,000 square feet of which is devoted to office space and a product showroom), J. Wright Plumbing operates two service vehicles and can respond to most heating and plumbing emergencies.

“We have a fairly small staff, so we simply can’t provide 24/7 coverage, but we can quickly deal with most routine problems as they arise. Personalized customer service, working with a long list of clients, many of whom have been with us for decades and having up to date training to work on the newest systems keeps us pretty busy,” Keller explained.

An active part of the community it services, J. Wright Plumbing & Heating has been a proud sponsor of the Westside Soccer Association since its inception 50 years ago – a source of ongoing pride for the company’s owners.

Keller, who has been with the company for more than 20 years, began working with the firm as a plumber, becoming an owner in 2010. For him being an active part of the community is a key part of the operation’s success and corporate longevity.

“One thing that people may not realize is that our gas fitting side is almost as busy as our plumbing and heating side – really our workload is nearly 50 / 50 between them. People are always putting in ranges and barbecues, repairing furnaces and that sort of thing. Gas is definitely a big

ROB KELLER OWNER, J. WRIGHT PLUMBING & HEATING LTD.

J. Wright Plumbing & Heating’s owner Rob Keller (right) and employee Brian Sonntag work for clients across the region

Located at 1880 Byland Road in West Kelowna J. Wright Plumbing & Heating has served thr region for 50 years

The company’s storefront offers a wide range of products to assist homeowners wanting to handle their own repairs

part of the business,” Keller said.

With a track record stretching back to the 1960s, a team of certified and continually upgraded technicians, an enviable reputation for providing honest and reliable service and an expansive data base of satisfied repeat and referral clients, J. Wright Plumbing & Heating looks forward to

technology, but in the way business is carried out. We often receive our jobs through our website, that’s something they would have never imagined back in 1967,” Keller said.

“Training to address the needs of new tech nolog y i s esp ecially important as well. Smart home technology and in-home

continuing to serve the greater Kelowna area for decades to come.

For the future, while the firm has no immediate plans to open a second outlet it does anticipate recruiting additional technicians to service its clients even quicker. “Things have certainly cha nged si nce the compa ny was first opened, not just in the

automation have the potential to change everything – so that’s an area of interest for us. One thing that hasn’t changed since day one is doing honest and dependable service and treating the client with the respect they’re due.

That’s something that will never change,” he said. www.jwrightplumbing.ca

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12

SEPTEMBER 2017

MEETINGS AND EVENTS Meetings Industry: A Multi Billion Dollar Sector Coast To Coast British Columbia’s Meeting Places Come In A Variety of Styles, Sizes & Capabilities

BY DAVID HOLMES

G

oing to a meeting is a common enough phrase, in business or in everyday life. But when you think about it, what actually constitutes a meeting can be as diverse and as unique as the venues selected to host them. What hasn’t gone unnoticed is the fact that staging meetings, from intimate personal gatherings such as wedding receptions, to full blown conferences and expansive international trade shows, has become big business in Canada and around the world.

Col lectively referred to as t he Meet i ngs I ndu st r y, t he SEE MEETINGS AND EVENTS | PAGE 13

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ELOWNA – For the past decade the Fairfield Inn & Suites Kelowna by Marriott has been a favourite destination for tourists and family visitors to the Kelowna area. But increasingly this exceptional hotel has also become the right choice for business travelers to the region, thanks to its outstanding service and to the wide range of amenities and extras geared specifically for this emerging segment of the market.

“We’re still definitely a familyfriendly hotel, with something like 60 per cent of our visitors being tourists and other personal travelers. But certainly, especially during the off-season, business persons and other professionals represent an increasingly important component of our guest list,” explained Liz Klingbell, the General Manager of the Fairfield Inn & Suites Kelowna.

Opened in 2007 the Fairfield Inn & Suites is a four storey hotel featuring 160 rooms, including 34 studio suites, lodgings that include a living room, ideal for relaxing after a long day or for conducting one on

“Business persons and other professionals represent an increasingly important component of our guest list.”

LIZ KLINGBELL GENERAL MANAGER, FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES KELOWNA BY MARRIOTT

one business meetings. “Business travelers love the suites, if at the end of their day they don’t want to sit at a desk or lay on a bed to watch TV they can relax on the couch to watch TV – just like at home,” she said.

The facility has a staff of as many as 70, depending on the time of year. The hotel also features two main meeting rooms that can be configured for a variety of different applications. The Ogopogo Room is about 1,000 square feet, while the larger Okanagan Room (nearly 2,000 square feet) can accommodate groups of up to 150.

This room can also be divided into two smaller venues depending on the needs of the guest. The hotel also offers free wifi, a hot buffet breakfast and other amenities.

“The Fairfield Inn is geared to serve the business traveler so the future certainly looks bright,” Klingbell said.

MEETINGS AND EVENTS

SEPTEMBER 2017

13

MEETINGS AND EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

The Vancouver Convention Centre is the province’s busiest, playing host to more than 500 events each year

The Victoria Conference Centre is the largest and most active facility of its kind in the Greater Victoria area construction and operation of meeting places in Canada has become an increasingly important part of the nation’s economic mix.

Statistics released by the Meetings Mean Business Coalition, an industry-wide group of meeting organizers, indicates that in 2016 the staging of business meetings in Canada was responsible for 1.5 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In addition the

organization estimates that across the country more than 341,000 people are directly employed in some facet of this increasingly important sector.

“A conference centre is definitely an eco-system. It’s everything from the folks who actually work in the centre, such as the kitchen staff and the A/V (audio-visual) guys, to those that directly supply the industry, from the local taxi company

and the outside meeting planners who have organized the events in the first place,” explained Danielle Russell, the Executive Director of Convention Centres Canada (CCC).

“People may not always realize it but there are a lot of jobs connected to the overall industry. Literally there are tens of thousands of people involved in the meetings industry from coast to coast and beyond. Often Canadian centres

will also interact with international facilities in coordinating major events, so there is even a global component to the industry.”

Convention Centres Canada serves as a national umbrella organization for 24 of the largest convention centres in the country, offering marketing services, lobbying on behalf of the member centres, providing networking opportunities for the operators and other services. CCC has five member centres in British Columbia – including the largest purpose built convention centres in the province.

These include the Vancouver Convention Centre (the busiest in BC), the Victoria Convention Centre,

the Penticton Trade & Convention Centre, the Prince George Civic Centre and the Vancouver Island Conference Centre in Nanaimo.

Of course meetings and events can be staged anywhere there is sufficient room, from full blown conference centres to available space in a church basement. The hospitality sector is another central part of the meetings industry, with most major hotels having ballrooms, designated meeting rooms and even full sized convention space in some cases. Often, especially in medium sized centres such as Prince George or Victoria, SEE MEETINGS AND EVENTS | PAGE 14

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The Victoria Conference Centre features 73,000 square feet of meeting space, including 19 separate meeting rooms

MEETINGS AND EVENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

conference centres and hotels can work in concert, performing collaboratively to co-host large scale events that require more space than any single facility can provide.

In the Interior of the province the Penticton Trade & Convention Centre is among the very best in BC. The largest convention centre in the Interior of British Columbia and the only purpose-built convention centre in the Okanagan, the Penticton Trade & Convention Centre features over 60,000 square feet of flexible meeting and exhibit space. Located in the heart of wine country and only about

five minutes from the Penticton Regional Airport, this is the ideal location to combine business and leisure.

The complex offers 13,700 square feet of exhibition space, features a 3,300 seat theatre, has 1,200 parking stalls in an attached space and is conveniently located in proximity to hotel rooms.

Major organizers of events, such as the Victoria Innovation, Advanced Technology and Entrepreneurship Council (VIATEC) is the source of many of the large scale events held in the Capital Region – taking place at different venues around the city. From training sessions to major awards nights, VIATEC is the force behind many

The Vancouver Island Convention Centre is the largest purpose built conference facility located north of Victoria of the top public happenings that occur in Victoria each year.

Another major event held in the Greater Victoria area each year is the Rifflandia Music Festival, noted for bringing top entertainers and hordes of enthusiastic music lovers to the region. Again, thanks to the established infrastructure available in Victoria the organizers of this four day spectacular have a variety of options and venues to choose from.

“Being able to host major events,

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especially ones that draw a national or even international audience, are an excellent way for a community to get the word out about what it has to offer. That alone can help to encourage development and investment,” Russell explained.

“Another interrelated element of the industry is the individual convention bureaus and the local destination marketing groups – organizations created to help promote their communities. For these groups having facilities in place are real assets when attempting to draw visitors to their region.”

British Columbia is especially blessed, both by Nature and in having a solid conference space inventory in place to help attract events and revenues. The following are just some of the key conference / trade show destinations in the province.

The premier meeting place in the provincial capital is the Victoria Conference Centre (VCC) a sprawling complex, linked to the world famous Fairmont Empress Hotel, it features 73,000 square feet of magnificent meeting space, spread across no less than 19 separate multi-purpose meeting rooms. The VCC also includes a large exhibit hall if a companion trade show is part of an event and a 400 seat lecture theatre for formal training opportunities. Ample parking space is also available for all of attendees, thanks to a large two-tiered underground parking lot located directly beneath the centre.

Across the street from the Conference Centre is Victoria’s historic Crystal Garden, which serves as a companion meeting venue for the VCC. Considered one of the most beautiful meeting places in Western Canada, the Crystal Garden boast more than 25,000 square feet of meeting space, enough legroom to host exhibits or functions for up to 1,100 people.

Further north the Prince George Civic Centre is Northern BC’s leading meeting, convention and events facility. Serving groups in sizes ranging from 20 to 2,000 it

is utilized primarily for conventions, meetings, banquets, sporting events, trade and consumer shows, weddings, symposiums, receptions and more. The facility offers incredible versatility and flexibility, making it an ideal venue for any sized event.

The complex has nearly 53,000 square feet of total functional space (48,000 square feet of which can be used as exhibition space), and is adjacent to a 650 room hotel for added convenience.

Located in Nanaimo the Vancouver Island Convention Centre (VICC) is the largest facility of its type on Vancouver Island, north of Victoria. With a lovely ocean side location overlooking the city’s inner harbour and featuring 38,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, the centrally located VICC is a desirable location for hosting major events in the Central Island region. The Centre features full wireless access, digital way-finding, global broadcast capabilities, and will accommodate events for up to 1,300 people.

The VICC has up to 35,000 square feet of total exhibition space, has a range of different sized meeting rooms available and is in close proximity to a 179 room hotel – Nanaimo’s largest.

British Columbia is equipped to host trade shows, workshops and conferences of every size. For key players in the meetings industry those resources, when combined with the revenue potentials that major events create, will see these facilities become even more important in the years to come.

“No virtual workshop will ever take the place of a face to face meeting, or being able to handle the goods at a trade show. That’s one of the real ongoing strengths of this industry,” Russell explained.

“Not everything can be done in a webinar, there’s still very much a place for building trust and understanding – which really can only happen when meeting face to face.” www.conventioncentrescanada. com

OFF THE COVER

SEPTEMBER 2017

“You don’t really know

FITZPATRICK CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Vineyards. “Grape vines were planted in 1995 and three years later we got our first grapes. Today, we are producing a sophisticated product with the signature Greata crispness, acidity and freshness.”

“You don’t really know what you have with a newly planted vineyard for at least a decade,” G ordon ex pl a i ned. “I n ou r second decade, we began to see the really special qualities of the vineyard and now concentrate on making the sparkling wine and estate grown, site-specific still wines.”

The Fitzpatrick family have been involved with agriculture since 1913, when Gordon’s greatgrandfather purchased a farm in Rutland and eventually expanded into fruit packing houses known as Mac & Fitz.

In 1986, Fitzpatrick’s father, Ross, purchased a struggling winery east of Kelowna, renamed it CedarCreek Estate Winery.

Under Ross and Gordon’s management it became a two-time Canadian Winery of the Year award winner.

“In 2014 we sold CedarCreek to Von Mandl Family Estates for a deal we couldn’t refuse, but Greata Ranch was not part of the sale.”

Wit h a l l t he upg rades a nd new facilities, visitors can now

15 what you have with a newly planted vineyard for at least a decade.”

GORDON FITZPATRICK FITZPATRICK FAMILY VINEYARDS

With the new facilities visitors can enjoy two separate tasting experiences: still wines and sparkling wines produced using traditional methods CUTLINE: FITZPATRICK FAMILY VINEYARDS

enjoy two separate tasting experiences: still wines at a tasting bar within a stone’s throw of the vineyard, and the Sparkling Bar, overlooking the vineyard and Okanagan Lake. Sparkling tours include a walk through the vineyard, a visit to the crush deck and barrel room and an exploration through the caves, the heart

of sparkling wine production.

“My father had remarkable insight that extended far beyond producing a luxury product. The tours aren’t just about tastings.

It’s about providing an education in how sparkling wine is produced, starting from the grape on the vine to the final product.”

Pairing food with the right

beverage is also part of the experience at FITZ Wine. The bistro, which features the cuisine of Chef Tony de Luca, specializes in lunches and brunches on weekends. Its focus is on starring local, seasonal ingredients while adhering to a strict ‘from scratch’ policy.

“This project has been very

exciting, especially with the new branding package,” Fitzpatrick said. “I’m very proud of the look and feel of the finished product.”

Although Gordon takes care of the day-to-day operation of the vineyard, his father, Ross, at 84 is still very much in the picture ensuring that Fitzpatrick Family Vineyards offers memorable onsite experiences for its visitors.

F i t z p a t r i c k Fa m i l y V i n eyards is at 697 Highway 97S in Peachland www.fizwine.com

WORKPLACE HEALTH ECONOMIC PROSPERITY WE NEVER FAILED TO FAIL – IT WAS THE EASIEST THING TO DO

HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE DEREK SIENKO

E

conomic sustainability fo r Ca n a d a i n a f a s tchanging world economy relies not only on business opportunities, but also on a mentally and physically healthy labour force.

The Cost of Workplace Illness Canadian employers struggle with high absenteeism and soaring cost of disabilities due to mental and physical cond itions that employees a re faced with in their daily lives.

However, employers are still, for example, underestimating the impact of mental illness to their organizations. According to data from the Mental Health Commission of Canada and Statistics Canada, the average cost of mental health is almost $1,500 per person per year. Healthy organizations

depend on engaged, productive, a nd loya l employees, making workplace health and wellness more crucial to business success than ever.

Disease Prevention vs. Disease Management In today’s competitive economy, our society still mainly relies on a disease management model instead of disease prevention model; this cost Canadian employers and the health care system millions of dollars.

For example, our system is far too prompt to prescribe pills to cure the problem / symptoms quickly instead of focusing on a preventative approach to address the condition that the employee is str ugg l i ng with. According to scientific research and pertinent literature, many work-related illnesses can be prevented, but a more integrated approach to employees’ health and safety needs to be implemented in order for it to happen (JOEM, December 2013.)

Embrace a Culture of Health and Wellness The Disease Prevention model serves as a foundation for employers to develop effective disability and return-to-work programs that significantly reduce work related absences, cost of disabilities as well as increase employees productivity. Moreover, Disability

Management and Return-toWork programs that are based on prevention are incredibly effective and affordable for any size organization. These programs prevent employers from dealing with inconclusive medical information which lead to delays in return-towork rehabilitation and potentially unnecessary legal costs.

As we struggle to transition from the disease management model to a disease prevention mo del, we need to keep i n mind that workplace health and wellness plays an essential part in building a strong economy for today and for the future of our children. In the next issue, we will talk about Disability Management and Return-to-Work programs.

Derek Sienko, CEO of Diversified Rehabilitation Group Inc. can be reached at info@diversifiedrehab. ca or 250-860-2868

If you fail 70 per cent of the time in baseball (strike out) you get to the Hall of Fame

SALES JOHN GLENNON

Y

ou may recall this great quote. “We never failed to fail. It was easiest thing to do.” I’ve had a few people ask where did that come from and what’s it mean? It’s a good question and one I’m happy to expand on.

If you are old enough to remember the band Crosby Stills and Nash, it is a line from their song Southern Cross. We all take different things from songs but this one spoke to me about the world of selling among other human endeavors.

Sales is a high rejection business.

Typically, we fail more than we win. That’s true unless you happen to be a superstar who has a close ratio over 50 per cent. The fact is it’s a career where you fail often.

But it’s not the only career where you fail often. If you fail 70 per cent of the time in baseball (strike out) you get to the Hall of Fame.

Failing in sales is normal and it’s easy to do. The tough thing is to lessen the losses and be able to handle the rejection. It’s tough to commit yourself to making a plan, sticking to the plan and being committed to your career and your goals even when you’re not up for it. The successful people have learned to do that. They have the support internally and externally to overcome their emotional risks and negative feelings (head trash) that turn into procrastination.

At Sandler our training includes ways to be mentally and emotionally tough, to stay focused and disciplined and to learn from failure. It’s imperative if we are to succeed.

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.

16

SEPTEMBER 2017

EFFECTIVE SYSTEMS DRIVE KELOWNA HYUNDAI’S SUCCESS Growth signals need for expansion and development of larger facility

K

E L OW NA - Joh n Kot started his career in the automot ive i ndust r y washing cars. It wasn’t glamourous but it got him started on a trajectory that would see him graduating from the washing bay to principle dealer.

“I started when I was 13, working on weekends. When I got older I started doing oil changes during the summers. What the salespeople were doing caught my eye so when I graduated from high school, I went to work selling cars at age 17.”

John married his wife, Trina, at a ge 19 a nd toget her t hey moved to Alberta where they lived for 17 years. It was a smart move as it gave Kot more opportunities to grow his knowledge base and career within the auto industry. He held several management and executive positions in those years for large dealer groups in Edmonton.

“I was the junior man when I started at the dealership in Edmonton, but I knew there were great opportunities, so I began working my way up and

eventua l ly beca me the senior executive of a large dealer group.”

Living in Edmonton, Kot and his family often spent holidays in the Okanagan, specifically Kelowna. They enjoyed the lifestyle, weather and charm of the smaller city and its accessibility to the larger communities of BC and Alberta. John, Trina and their children moved to Kelowna seven years ago, first working for a local dealer group before jumping on the opportunity to buy Kelowna Hyundai.

“Throughout my career, I always had the desire to own a dealership. Six and a half years ago I heard about the Hyundai dealership. It was in an excellent location and there was a good volume of sales.”

Since Kot took over the dealersh ip, Kelow na Hy u nd a i has more tha n doubled its sa les volume.

“We took the dealership from 4 00 new c a r sa le s a nd 200 used car sales to 800 and 760 respectively.”

He credits several factors for the dealership’s meteoric rise in sales and volume, including adding the Buy Direct Truck Centre dealership in 2013. Located in the city just down the road from Kelowna Hyundai, it only specializes in used cars, SUVs and trucks.”

Extensive community support helps Kelowna Hyundai win the 2016 Community Driver Award CREDIT:KELOWNA HYUNDAI

John Kot and Sam Ghessesow presenting this year’s donation for KGH’s new Interior Heart and Surgical Centre CREDIT:KELOWNA HYUNDAI

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“This was a great spot for used cars that would nicely complement the Hyundai dealership,” he emphasized. “But none of it could be done without a great staff.”

With between 60 and 100 employees, it’s a large payroll and for Kot hiring the right people is key.

“We tend to hire on character, not so much on resu me.

Knowledge can be taught and

developed, but most importantly you have to have the right personality and the desire to make a career in the auto industry. And when you find a good person, you keep them.”

Kot first met his General Mana ger, Sam Ghessesow wh i le working in Edmonton. Ghessesow started on the sales floor in one of the dealerships that John managed. Three years ago, with the Kelowna dealership

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growing, Kot asked Ghessesow if he would move to Kelowna and join the team. He agreed, and has been there for three years, initially as the General Sales Manager, and now the General Manager.

He isn’t the only one that was drawn to working with Kot. “I have staff members here today that have worked for me over the years at other dealersh ips. T hey have helped me

17

SEPTEMBER 2017

Kelowna Hyundai is a family business with Jordan and Janessa actively involved at the dealership CREDIT:KELOWNA HYUNDAI

John Kot and his team took the dealership and more than doubled its sales in new and used cars CREDIT:KELOWNA HYUNDAI

“We took the dealership from 400 new car sales and 200 used car sales to 800 and 760 respectively.”

JOHN KOT PRINCIPAL DEALER, KELOWNA HYUNDAI

build a team that truly cares about each customer’s experience. Their loyalty is greatly appreciated.”

But with the growth came the need for more space.

“We recently bought five acres in a prime location. We’ll be building a whole new dealership incorporating the new Genesis premium luxury brand.”

Slated to open in 2021, the new facility will continue to showcase the successful model Kot has learned and created. It’s part of what’s brought the dealership its success.

“We have a process,” Kot explained. “There are policies in place to ensure that every one of our customers has a great

ex p er ienc e. A cross Ca nada Hyundai has a n ine per cent market share. We have a 17 to 19 per cent market share in the Kelowna market.”

For Kot being a part of an individual’s first vehicle purchase is more than making someone’s day. It’s about creating a lifelong customer.

“T here i s a rea l h ig h I get knowing that I’ve sold someone a car, but it’s also a big responsibility. We make sure it stays a great experience for all the car purchases that will follow that initial one.”

As one of the most successful Kelowna Hyundai dealerships in BC, it has received the 2012, 2013, 2014, and 2015 Hyundai President’s Award through its exceptional customer service.

It’s an honour that Kot freely sha res w ith h is sta ff. But it isn’t the only area that Kelowna Hyundai shines. Look at its listings of community involvement and you’ll see a business that cares about and is involved with giving back.

“We are very involved with the Kelowna General Hospital (KGH). Right now, we are committed to raising $100,000 for KGH’s new Interior Heart and Surgical Center (IHSC)

It’s a cause that is of particular relevance for Kot as his daughter was born with a heart condition.

Initiated in 2014, the pledge was to raise $100,000 over five years. Operation 200 runs every May and has successfully maintained its commitment.

“Everybody knows you need a hospital with all the right equipment, but when you go through something you realize just how important it is. With Operation 200, the goal is to sell 200 vehicles between Kelowna Hyundai and Buy Direct Truck Center, donating $100 from the sale of each vehicle to reach a target of $20,000 per year.”

T he ca mpa ig n ta kes pl ace during the month of May with the $20,000 check presented to the Kelowna General Hospital Foundation the following month.

“The IHSC provides worldclass care for families. It’s very gratifying to be a part of helping out,” said Kot. Kelowna Hyundai and Kot’s philanthropy extends beyond healthcare. It regularly supports organizations, including Okanagan College Trades Department-donating $20,000 over five years, Central Okanagan Bursary and Scholarship Society

with the annual Kelowna Hyundai Scholarship of $1,000 each to six lucky students in the local area and many more.

Recently, it donated $25,000 to the expansion and re-building of St. Joseph Elementary School.

Started in 1939 by the Sisters of Charity, it offers faith-based Catholic education with a holistic approach. The St. Joseph’s Project will not only expand the buildings, allowing more students to attend, but it will also provide upgrades for the existing buildings. In addition to the $25,000 donated to the expansion, Kelowna Hyundai also participated in the First Annual Josh Gorges Street Hockey Tournament, an event that saw $57,000 contributed to the St. Joseph’s Project.

Kot explained that the move to

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Kelowna has been a good one for his family. He and his wife have raised four children; two work with him at the dealership - Jordan is the Used Car Manager and Janessa is the Financial Services Manager. Up until two years ago, Brandon was working at the dealership as well. Now, as Kot explains it, Brandon has spread his wings and moved to Vancouver to try another dealership.

Kot’s youngest son, Logan, on the other hand, at eight years old, hasn’t decided yet whether he will join his father’s business or not. But there’s time for that after all; with the plans Kot has for expansion, Kelowna Hyunda i w i l l be a rou nd for ma ny years more years to come.

Kelowna Hyundai is at 3260 Highway 97 N in Kelowna. www.kelownahyundai.com

18

SEPTEMBER 2017

TOTAL INTERIORS LANDS NEW OWNER Seeing City of Kelowna from a unique perspective

K

ELOW NA - Arriving at Kelowna International Airport for the first time in August of last year, Abhinav Kanti was struck by two things: from his perspective, the lack of people in the terminal and then beauty of the city, surrounding hills and lake.

“W hen I got off the plane I wondered to myself where all the people were,” he said. It didn’t take long though, for Kanti to realize that Kelowna was going to be a good place to bring his family to live and work.

“It’s a beautiful city,” he emphasized, adding that what sealed the deal was the kindness of the people he met. “I really liked the different areas and all the play parks, but it was the openness and support of the people here that made me feel welcome.”

Kanti, who owned a factory in India that produced medical equipment, was always highly involved with customer service and direct selling. His business sold healthcare supplies distributing to hospitals as well as clinics.

Several years ago, Kanti began looking for a place to relocate his family to. He was looking for a lifestyle that was different from India, one with open spaces and plenty of opportunities.

“I wanted to move my family to Canada to enhance our quality of life and, though this country was on my radar, I didn’t have any specific province or city in mind.”

As many do when faced with a problem with no simple answers, Kanti turned to Google.

“I searched online for businesses for sale, ones that were similar to what I had successfully owned and operated in India. There were several, but only a few of interest.

I traveled to Kelowna with the idea of looking into Total Interiors.

I had looked at others but Total seemed to be a good fit.”

Kanti said that his method of

“I searched online for businesses for sale, ones that were similar to what I had successfully owned and operated in India.”

ABHINAV KANTI OWNER, TOTAL INTERIORS

determining the suitability of a business was by looking at a way to translate the systems he applied to his business in India to a business here in Canada. He explained that when he replaced medical equipment with office equipment, there were similar processes at all levels from purchasing to customer service and sales.

“Selling office interiors and furniture is a lot less stressful system than manufacturing and selling medical equipment. I can feel good promoting these products because they are still enhancing people’s lives.”

Once Kanti had determined which business best fit his skill set, the next step was to apply for a work permit, have his company hire him and then apply for permanent residency. The final move came on June 16 of this year.

“Our son is studying electrical engineering in the United States but our daughter is only 16 and moved with us. She is already enamoured with the beauty of the area. Within a week she had made friends,” he said. “This has been a real leap of faith, on all levels, but Roy Collins, the previous owner of Total Interiors, has been an amazing help throughout the transition.”

Kanti explained that Collins has introduced him to clients, explained some of the in-house processes and, most importantly, is teaching him about the work environment.

“A bh i n av i s ver y c apable, thoughtful with clients and great

Once the office design is complete, the installation team puts it all together CREDIT:TOTAL INTERIORS

Roy Collins, Total Interiors previous owner has been helping make the transition to new ownership a smooth process CREDIT:TOTAL INTERIORS

with the staff,” said Collins. “This is a great opportunity for Abhinav and I expect the transition will continue to go smoothly.”

“I come from a different work culture - a multinational corporation to an established regional business. I need to understand and absorb as much as possible so I can effectively contribute to the employees’ satisfaction and the customer’s experience. It’s a very exciting time, meeting people who are so full of energy.”

Even coming from a huge metropolis, Kanti says he gets a

strong energetic feeling from the city, saying it’s vibrant and alive.

“This city is throbbing and ready for take-off,” he said. “I am excited to be part of that so that my journey can contribute to its growth.”

But Kanti has had a few bumps in an otherwise smooth road. He is finding that running two businesses in two different countries is a bit of a challenge especially with the time zone difference.

He connects with his partners in India at night to ease any business transitions.

“I can sometimes be on the phone till late at night, helping the team to continue the company’s smooth operations. During the day, I am working with Total, getting to know the team here.”

He adds that Collins and the team at Total aren’t the only individuals that have positively impacted his move here.

“I’ve met many professionals of Indian ethnicity who have been very helpful. City Councillor, Mohini Singh, has helped the family settle into their new home. I don’t know how she manages all she does and still finds the time to help us out. Also, Gary Parmar of MNP, whom we hired as our accountant, has been extremely helpful introducing us to the culture and a new way of life in Kelowna.”

Kanti’s energy and enthusiasm fits well in a growing city; he has embraced many of the services and networking opportunities it has to offer.

“I’ve attended Rotary functions and Chamber of Commerce meetings. People at both organizations have been welcoming and very helpful.”

Most importantly, however, for the growth and continued success of his new business, Kanti

19

SEPTEMBER 2017

Total Interiors designs and supplies every aspect of an office environment, including space for creative thinking and brainstorming

A fully qualified design team helps create a comfortable and workable office environment CREDIT:TOTAL INTERIORS

CREDIT:TOTAL INTERIORS

The Kanti’s enjoying the rich multicultural nature of BC at Butchart Gardens CREDIT:TOTAL INTERIORS

Moving to Canada was a real leap of faith for Abhinav Kanti but Roy Collins and the office team are explaining the in-house systems and introducing him to clients CREDIT:TOTAL INTERIORS

appreciates the support that Collins is providing as he learns the ropes.

“I will stay and help Abhinav settle into the business as long as he needs me. Although I haven’t taken on any new projects since May, I’m willing to help him out if and when he needs me.”

Collins, who bought Total Interiors in 2003, has, over the past 15 years, taken the company from a used furniture dealer to a highly successful supplier and contractor of office furniture.

“We wanted Total Interiors to provide quality products and exceptional service at the best value,” he said.

Today, Total provides innovative working environments for educational, healthcare, hospitality and corporate environments.

Collins said that a contributor to Total’s success over the past years has been the supplier of the Teknion line of furniture.

“Teknion is Canada’s premier line and largest supplier in the Canadian office furniture industry. We were awarded the dealership in 2003. We are now known as the ‘go-to’ company that fully comprehends the various needs of company owners and managers in a competitive and complicated workplace.”

The company’s success has been punctuated with highly successful contracts with prestigious

When Abhinav Kanti and his family moved to Canada they made sure to take a tour of their new home province CREDIT:TOTAL INTERIORS

clients including Okanagan College, City of Kelowna, Royal Canadian Mounted Police detachment offices, and restaurants, hotels and medical offices.

“We just finished my biggest job in the history of the company,” Kanti explained, excited over its success. “It went off very well with the team working well together and without us giving the project manager a headache.”

He emphasized that Total Interiors is a home-grown company employing local designers, sales team and installers.

“We are the only supplier in the area that offers a one-stop solution to the office environment.

We have a qualified design team

that not only works with the client to discover needs and wants, but that also provides design ideas and drawings. We also have teams that install the product.”

He added that Total takes a client’s concept to its final execution, providing customized and sustainable commercial working environments.

As Kanti continues to learn from Collins and settles into his new home, he said that he becomes more excited and pleased with the decision he and his family made to immigrate to Canada and his new home town.

Total Interiors Showroom is at 420 Banks Road in Kelowna www.totalinteriors.ca

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS

20

SEPTEMBER 2017

was held on July 22nd in support of the Salmon Arm Women’s Shelter, and saw community members, volunteers and mall merchants contribute to a worthy cause through donations, nonperishable food items, personal care items, and cleaning supplies.

KELOWNA Urban Fare decided to match donations towards victims of the BC wildfires raised by Larry Sugar, a former Hollywood executive and producer. Sugar is a long-time customer of Urban Fare, and decided to set up a table outside their Yaletown grocery store locations to raise funds for those impacted by the fires in early August. All of the donations raised and matched went directly to the Red Cross, up to Sugar’s goal of $5,000.

The staff and faculty at Okanagan College welcomes a new Director of Human Resources to their team this September. Linda Heska will begin her role in the director position on September 18th, bringing with her postsecondary administration experience, in addition to her nearly 30 years of public sector management and consulting experience.

KAMLOOPS joined the firm from Vancouver as Manager for their Private Enterprise Group.

SALMON ARM

Above: students from the Toyota Technical College program has seen to date.

The former Flashbacks building has been acquired by BNA Brewing, who plans to take over and expand the size of the establishment.

On September 8th, Diversified Rehabilitation Group will be hosting their Courtyard BBQ for Kidney Walk for the second year in a row. The event will run from 12-3pm at 1395 Gordon Drive at Bernard Avenue.

Above: Linda Heska, new Director of Human Resources, Okanagan College Officials from Okanagan College and Toyota Technical College celebrated the 26th year of educational and cultural exchange as 120 students from Japan traveled to the Kelowna campus for training. Participants learned Collision Repair and Customer Service during their visit, and were able to explore around Kelowna and learn more about Canadian culture. This is the largest year of participation the

Royal Star Enterprises, Esso, McDougall Energy Inc., and the Kelowna International Airport are congratulated on the grand opening of the new YLW Airport Plaza. The location now features a Freshii, Tim Hortons, Esso and On the Run convenience store.

Jamie Schaab has launched a new business, Virtual Pro, which provides quality administrative support without the overhead.

The Kelowna Chamber office on 544 Harvey Avenue will be displaying works from ARTSCO’s Artscape program, featuring paintings by local artists, Ceren McKay and Maria Bayford.

Artscape is a community exhibition program that creates

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opportunities to display local art in significant community venues.

Axe Monkeys is a brand-new business owned by Dave Calhoun, and managed by Andrew Donn. The venture is Kelowna’s first axe-throwing facility, located at #8 – 3190 Sexsmith Road. The facility features nine axe-throwing lanes with large red targets, and bookings feature a session with an axe trainer who instructs on how to throw the axe.

Brett Sichello Design has undergone a name change to Nido Design Inc., as part of the firm’s change to provide ultimate energy efficient home design in the form of the design, prefabricated building envelopes construction, construction management onsite, and continuing client care. Nido is one of the largest passive house design and consulting businesses in the Okanagan construction sector.

The 2015 Terroir Collection No. 43 Reflection Point Pinot Noir from Mission Hill Winery has been named Best Canadian Pinot Noir and Best Canadian Red Wine at the Decanter World Wine Awards in London, UK. A Porsche Centre Kelowna facility is now open at 888 Finns Road, off Highway 97. The Porsche dealership is the first in Central BC and the Okanagan Valley, owned by Vaughn Wyant, President and CEO of Wyand Group. John Bokitch is the general manager and managing partner.

Illichmann Meat Sausage and Gourmet Foods celebrates their 50th year in business at 1937 Gordon Drive.

Allison Francis, CPA, CA has been appointed as manager of assurance and accounting at BDO. Francis was formerly with BDO’s Burlington branch in Ontario.

Jason Granger, CPA, CA has also

Troy Mick, currently the president and GM of the Silverbacks will be president GM of business operations of the The Salmon Arm Sports Inc group which consists of the Salmon Arm Silverbacks BCHL, Steamboat Wranglers RMJHL, Salmon Arm Elite Hockey & Power Skating School & the Maximum Edge Hockey shop. Scott Atkinson will add GM and Director of player personal to his responsibilities of head coach of the Silverbacks.

Aleece Laird has started up Amplify Consulting Inc., a company specializing in research and stakeholder engagement.

The company analyzes current perceptions and realities for clients, organizations and communities to then develop common sense solutions in building the ideal marketing and communications game plan. Laird has also been busy as a Director for the BC Chamber of Commerce.

For more information, please visit www.amplifyinc.ca.

Corrie Appraisals (Commercial) Ltd has changed names to Quality Appraisals Inc and located at #203 – 40 Lakeshore Drive, NE. Sicamous has been nominated for the Kraft/Heinz Project Play grand prize of $250,000 for planned recreational upgrades to Finlayson Park. The district’s entry for the funding is one of 1,195 applications for Project Play, with plans for funding to enhance the multi-use, multigenerational nature of Finlayson Park’s outdoor recreational facility. Nominations will be reduced to only four on September 4th, and then finalists will go to a public vote for the winner.

The Canoe Creek Golf Course has a new web address for information and bookings: www. canoecreekgc.com.

Safety Mart Foods celebrates serving Chase and the surrounding community for 40 years this year.

This year marks 30 years of community partnership for The Hudson Thrift Shoppe, located at 433 Hudson Avenue NE. Local Salmon Arm lawyer, Marianne Armstrong, who has been serving as administrative Crown counsel for the Salmon Arm area, has been appointed as a provincial court judge.

Armstrong begins her new responsibilities on September 6th and has been assigned to Kamloops and the Interior Region.

The Mall at Piccadilly presented $4,203 in funds raised at their fourth annual Charity Block Party to the SAFE Society. The event

Above: Aleece Laird, Amplify Consulting August 30th marks the grand opening celebration of Planet Fitness, which is located at 945 Columbia Street West.

The British Columbia Liquor Control and Licensing Branch has launched a new Licensee Education Program that provides owners and staff of licensed establishments with training on navigating BC’s liquor laws and operating their facilities. Two of these sessions are taking place at Thompson Rivers University on August 31st from 10am-noon, and 1:30pm-3:30pm.

The Residence modern retirement home is now open in Kamloops at 3300 Valleyview Drive.

The 13th Annual Keystone Awards are now accepting submissions for their 28 awards categories recognizing excellence in the homebuilding industry for the Thompson-Nicola region.

Submissions can be made online at www.chbaci.ca or by phone at 250-828-1844, until October 27th. The entries will be judged by builders and professionals from the Lower Mainland, with final awards being presented on February 3rd at a black-tie gala at Thompson Rivers University.

MOVERS AND SHAKERS

SEPTEMBER 2017

Iron Road Brewing, owned

by Richard Phillips and Jared Tarswell, has opened its doors as a new craft brewery on Camosun Crescent. Iron Road is the second venture of its kind in Kamloops and features a manufacturing and tasting room model, with products made and sold in the same location.

Kamloops’ Sagewood Estate Winery took home 13 medals and three acknowledgments at the NorthWest Wine Summit.

The awards received over 1,200 entries, and Sagewood’s recognitions featured: bronze for their 2016 dernier (Late Harvest, red), 2014 pinot noir, 2016 gewurztraminer, 2016 ortega, 2014 marechal foch, 2014 merlot/cabernet franc, 2016 marechal foch, and 2014 merlot. The winery took home silver for their 2016 Emmarie (rose blend), 2016 reisling, trocken (dry), 2016 gamay, and 2016 lerner; and it won gold for its 2016 pinot gris.

A Techstars Startup Weekend event is scheduled from September 8-10th, which allows new entrepreneurs an opportunity to learn about creating a business, while networking with investors, co-founders, sponsors, and mentors. The event will be held at Thompson Rivers University, and tickets are $99 per person, or $75 per student.

Mastermind Studios has been approved for a building permit to renovate new space at its Southgate location for a new sound stage for smaller insert sets. The sets are occasionally used for movies, green screen for visual effects, and mostly for commercials and television productions. Construction is anticipated to be completed by October.

PENTICTON The Penticton 2017 ITU Multisport Festival will be bringing thousands of athletes and supporters from all over the world to the region from August 18 - 27th to compete for the gold.

Vitamin King, located at 354 Main Street, celebrates its 25th year in business this year.

Harry McWatters is set to open new business venture, TIME Winery, in downtown Penticton.

McWatters, who is the president and CEO of Encore Vineyards (the parent company for Evolve Cellars), the McWatters Collection, and this new venture, prepares for his 50th vintage this year, anticipating the winery to be fully operational by midSeptember. TIME will be located in the updated PenMar Theatre building on Martin Street, and will operate as a full-fledge winery in addition to selling the wines.

Many Hats Theatre Co. celebrates their 10th anniversary in the community this year.

The Penticton Farmers’ Market will be relocating to 500 and 600 Blocks Main Street for August 19th and August 26th, and will be open from 8:30-1pm.

Plans for a new hotel located near the South Okanagan Events Centre received a zoning amendment after a recent public hearing received no opposition.

The hotel project may bear the Ramada brand, and would be located in the 900-block of Eckhardt Avenue.

Bananas Haircutters, located in Penticton Plaza near Co-Operators Insurance, has undergone a change in ownership as Bobi-Jo Malleck now runs the business. The Bananas team also welcomes Michelle Kim, formerly of the School of Hair, on staff. Michelle specializes in wedding and prom up-dos.

NHL Chicago Black Hawks defenseman, Duncan Keith, has entered into a three-year funding agreement with the OSNS Child and Youth Development Centre through his charity, Keith Relief.

The two components of the donation feature specific, allocated funds each year for families in financial crisis due to caring for their children, and an outdoor project on the centre grounds, the Duncan Keith Adventure Playground, which will begin construction in the spring of 2018.

Janet Parker, owner of Parkers Chrysler, has collectively donated $25,000 with her business to Discovery House, an addictions recovery centre for men dealing with drug and alcohol addiction. Parkers Chrysler held a fundraiser in June for the centre’s new building on Winnipeg Street, raising $7,720. Janet Parker then personally contributed $17,280 towards the project for a total donation of $25,000.

SUMMERLAND Three Summerland Chamber of Commerce members have launched brand new websites this month. The new websites feature a fresh design, mobile functionality for improved user experience and online shopping or booking capabilities. Wine Glass Writer Inc. has updated their site: www.wineglasswriter. com, while Brown Benefits displays their updated look at www. brownbenefits.ca, and Wellborn Bodyworks at www.wellbornbodyworks.com.

Four new businesses have joined the Summerland Chamber as new members: J & W Contracting Inc., offering general contracting services; Lux Quality Construction, offering commercial, residential and acreage / barn construction services; Purple Hemp Co. and home of Kyla’s Quest offers retail hemp and health products, teas and a smoothie bar; and Yvonne Whiting – Notary Public offers personal / estate planning, real

estate transfers and documents, notarizations and more.

and nose piercing services last month.

Mountainview Landscape Supplies has moved locations to 8900 Lenzi Street, Summerland.

Hunters Hill, a Summerlandbased development initiative, has announced the limited release of the first phase of their single-family lake view lots. The lots have been designed to feature choice views of Summerland and Okanagan Lake.

Bad Robot Computers and Electronics is pleased to announce a new store manager.

Adnan Alabudlrhaman will be assuming the new role, effective August 15th. Adnan will be taking over the position from Robert Hacking, who is moving on to a position with the RCMP Kelowna Dispatch team. The team wishes Robert well and congratulates Adnan on his new position.

Neighbourlink Summerland welcomes Brandi Esler to their team, as she has accepted a position as their new Office Support Coordinator. Esler formerly worked with the Calgary Neighbourlink division, and brings with her a wide variety of talent and experience.

Summerland Tirecraft has undergone a change in ownership as Charman and Clint Morey took over the business back in April.

They will be launching a grand re-opening from September 1-9th. The opening will feature sales, prizes and customer appreciation celebrations.

Mirjana Komljenovic is congratulated on recently being invited to attend the RBC Canadian Entrepreneurs Women of Influence Awards Gala in Toronto this November. She will proudly represent Summerland, and will be recognized for her work with Neighbourlink Summerland.

Maple Roch, located at 13224 Victoria Road North, is seeking local products made with their maple syrup or sugar in preparation for their retail store opening. They plan to showcase and sell local products such as granola, jam with maple, maple salad dressing, maple art, maple furniture, etc. Those interested may call 778-516-7624 (ROCH), email, or stop by their store location.

A sparkling new white van has been added to the growing fleet at Ogopogo Tours. Their Ford Transit “High Roof” van offers lower step height, centre aisle seating, large tinted windows and cool air-conditioned comfort.

It’s the most fuel-efficient van in its class, aligning with their Climate Action Plan and Carbon Neutral tours. The company was awarded the Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor for 2017, in addition to being nominated for Top 25 Tours of North America at Flight Network.

Adonica Sweet is the Director for Ogopogo Tours.

Open Skies Media celebrated a five-year anniversary on August 1st. Owner Luke Johnson has seen a great response for his business services, from website design to computer service.

Also celebrating their fifth year in business is Beauty and the Brit, who have introduced ear

21 and West Kelowna.

The North Okanagan Child Care Society was named as one of eleven recipients of VantageOne Credit Union’s Great Community Giveaway. The society was awarded $7,500 to build an infant toddler play space at their early learning centre.

The Family Resource Centre has also received a financial award of $7,000 from the Great Community Giveaway, which will go towards directing client services and programs within this budget year.

New business, Purple Hemp Co., has opened their doors in Summerland this July, expanding on their work with Kyla’s Quest.

They are founded on the premise that there is a growing need to normalize hemp and cannabis as a daily health regimen. The retail direction on health and deep wellness morphed into a physical store with a focus on natural hemp products. That includes skin products, dietary supplements, clothing and accessories, in addition to other professional health services on site.

Ukrainetz Workplace Law Group, owned by Veronica Ukrainetz, has donated $5,000 to the NONA Child Development Centre for their Build the Clubhouse Campaign. Ukrainetz has been a member of the clubhouse campaign team since its beginning.

Pat Loehndorf, General Manager, and the team at Bannister Honda congratulates Jason Tissington on being named Salesperson of the Month for July at the dealership while Robert McLaren was tops at Bannister GM at 4703 27th Street.

The Feast of Farms is taking place on September 9th. This second annual event features a farm-to-table culture and is a fundraiser for two $500 bursaries for 2018 SSS graduates.

As of September 1st, Concept Physiotherapy and Massage will be located in their new home at #200 – 4412 27th Street, Vernon.

VERNON The Adventure Bay development project in Vernon has announced the construction of model homes on their lakeview lots for 2017.

The development features an unspoiled waterfront, woodland and meadow trails, tennis and pickle ball courts, and more.

Fabricland West, located at 5509 – 24th Street, celebrates their 40th anniversary this year.

Farm Credit Canada (FCC) has awarded $10,000 to the Enderby Preschool Society for the purchase of equipment for a new rural daycare. The financial award is part of the organization’s FCC AgriSpirit Fund, which is giving $1.5 million to 78 community groups across the country in support of rural capital projects. This year, 1,214 applications were received nationally for the AgriSpirit Fund.

The Regional District of Central Okanagan celebrates its 50th anniversary of incorporation this year, servicing the area from North Westside to Peachland, including Lake Country, Kelowna

Daniel Draht has joined the team at Nixon Wenger LLP Lawyers as an Associate. Draht practices civil litigation, including property litigation, employment law, and other related business or commercial disputes.

Vernon Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram, congratulates employee Kent Hough, on achieving Salesperson of the Month for July. Vernon Dodge is located at 4607 27 Street. Kyle Muhle was top salesperson at Vernon Toyota at 3401 – 48th Ave and Dean Huttter was the star performer at Watkins Motors at 4602 27th Street.

Brett Squair has joined the firm of Davidson Pringle LLP Lawyers as an associate lawyer and member of their general litigation, business, estates and real estate practice team.

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OPINION

22

SEPTEMBER 2017 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, Josh Higgins – josh@businessexaminer.ca WRITERS | John MacDonald, Beth Hendry-Yim, David Holmes, Kristin van Vloten WEBSITE | John MacDonald

NDP WASTING NO TIME IN IMPLEMENTING RADICAL AGENDA

MARK MACDONALD

W

ith the slimmest of possible margins in the legislature, one would think the NDP and their Green sidekicks would tiptoe carefully in their first steps in government.

Guess again. With a resounding thump, the NDP is back, sending tremors throughout the province, moving quickly to implement their anti-business, ideologically based concepts which aim to crush the entrepreneurial spirit.

It’s the latest version of Shock and Awe. It’s like the NDP can’t help itself. The first time they became government, in 1972, Premier Dave Barrett was like a bull in a china shop, acting like the oneterm government it would be by introducing legislation and programs that to this day, remain headaches. The Agricultural

Land Reserve was a document more congruent with the NDP’s hidden manifesto, that suggests individuals should not have the right to own property. While the ALR has been effective in some areas by preserving precious farm land, it has often gone far over the line, making un-plantable and un-harvestable land undevelopable – even though the land itself is proven to be good for only development.

ICBC was a Barrett government creation, and the NDP is flagging a BC Liberal-commissioned report citing vast funding inadequacies in the insurance corporation that could see rates jacked as high as 30 per cent. While the pronouncements are politically charged – as most governments slag their predecessors with such reports – the NDP is hardly the party that has proven itself capable of balancing any set of books. The best solution to ICBC is to open the market to private insurers, where competition would prove to be the great leveler of rates. But don’t count on the NDP giving any such opportunity to the private sector.

That doesn’t fit their ideology.

The next time around, in 1991, former Vancouver Mayor Mike Harcourt, a Socialist in a suit, looked more tame and seemed

content to take his time implementing NDP doctrine and dogma. He didn’t enrage the business community and, in fact, his more balanced approach gave the NDP a real shot at a successive term in office, although it wasn’t fast enough for the “Ides of March” backbenchers who pushed Harcourt out after the Bingogate charityskimming scam orchestrated by Nanaimo NDP MLA Dave Stupich.

In 1996, Glen Clark asked for some “wriggle room” prior to his defeat of BC Liberal leader Gordon Campbell, then introdu c e d f u d g-it b u d ge t s a nd doomed-from-the-start aluminum catamaran ferries before he was finally ousted by a deckbuilding scandal. By then, however, he enraged the B.C. business community to the point the BC Liberals swept to power with a 77-2 seat majority. The NDP’s extreme agenda drove the NDP to near annihilation in 2000.

So what has the NDP learned from its own history? Obviously nothing.

Petronas’ cancellation of their multi-billion dollar investment in Liquid Natural Gas meant they walked away from the $9 billion they’ve already spent in B.C. Why? They realized with the inflammatory anti-resource rhetoric of the GreeNDP and

the campaign promises of extra taxation that this project was not going to be possible under this jurisdiction.

The GreeNDP then promises to fight with all their might the federally approved Kinder Morgan Pipeline, threatening jobs. They may yet cancel the Site C dam project, throwing 2,200 direct employees out of work.

Steps towards a $15 minimum wage were announced recently, yet another massive move in the first few weeks of the government.

It’s a blatant vote-pandering move, which always results in: Businesses trying to raise prices to pay for increased payroll. If the market can’t sustain that, they cut service and/or staff to keep costs at bay. Or, as McDonald’s is doing, companies introduce automation that will eliminate entry level, non-skilled jobs.

And the employees who get the minimum wage raise? They will only enjoy that for a limited time, because the price of everything else rises to match those increased costs. If the NDP really was sincere about helping minimum wage earners, there’s a simple solution, but it takes more time: Training. That will enable people to make more money as they can fill skilled positions that pay more.

NDP ideology seems to reject the basic law of economics: Supply and demand. Maybe NDPers believe that by killing well-paying resource-based jobs they’ll decrease the ability for average citizens to have wealth to provide demand, thus making it unnecessary to create more supply, aka development. The Green Party would celebrate that.

The NDP’s plan for affordable housing hasn’t been launched or even adequately explained, but perhaps it’s simply causing the housing market to cool due to a lack of demand, driving the price of homes down and making them more affordable. Let’s hope not.

It’s a mystery that the NDP has seen the same scenario repeat itself, now the third time in B.C. alone, but still refuses to learn or accept the realities of democratic society. They’re stuck in an ideological time-warp, and the worst thing about it? They believe they’re right, and refuse to learn from history.

Punishing entrepreneurs and business owners only causes them to pull back and stop moving forward with job-creating projects and companies. And without a thriving private sector, there isn’t money for social programs – or jobs for those who need them most.

JULY 18: A DAY THAT WILL LIVE IN INFAMY FOR CANADIAN PRIVATE CORPORATION OWNERS

DOUG JOHNSTON

O

n July 18th federal Minister of Finance Bill Morneau released proposed changes to the taxation of private corporations.

Although these changes have received remarkably little coverage, they have created shockwaves with CPA’s and tax lawyers that deal with the taxation of small businesses and their owners.

Justin Trudeau stated in 2015 “that a large per centage of small businesses are used by wealthy people to shield income from taxation.” In this writer’s opinion, and I have largely practiced in this area of taxation for 45 years, since 1972, these comments and tax proposals indicate a fundamental ignorance by Trudeau of how the

economy of Canada works and what comprises the vast majority of small businesses.

In 1972, the Carter Commission made substantial changes to Canadian tax law. For Small Business, it recognized that it was necessary to defer a portion of tax on income, based on the fact that income was rarely in the form of cash: It was represented by financing receivables, inventory, property, plants and equipment.

The Carter Commission however was clear that “a buck was a buck” which resulted in the concept of “integration”. That concept essentially says that the total tax the small businessperson pays first at the corporate level and then later on the dividends they withdraw from the small business should be approximately the same as the tax paid by an individual.

This has been the basic philosophy of the Canadian tax system since 1972. I have rarely seen anyone starting a small business that I would describe as “rich” or “wealthy”.

Indeed, if these entrepreneurs have a common character trait , it is the willingness to work

incredibly hard and risk everything for not just themselves but also their families. As these small businesses mature, the ones that have been able to survive are able to pay off liabilities of their active business and start to invest in what is called “passive” income such as commercial or residential rental properties and investments in the stock market.

In the proposals, the Liberals indicate that they think that it is “unfair” that this active income can be invested in these passive investments without further immediate tax being paid - despite the fact that the integration concept still results in overall income tax being the same.

In the example that the Minister gave, he suggested that an individual earning over $200,000 per year would pay approximate 50% of immediate tax while the small business corporation would only pay 15% .

To “fix this” and make it “fair”, the thrust of his proposal would be to increase the immediate tax from 15% to 50% which would TRIPLE the amount of tax paid.

According to the government, they hope to raise an additional

$250 million per year from Small Business.

The concept of “fairness”, in my experience, “is in the eye of the beholder”. Let’s compare a government employee, for example, and a small business person who are now both earning $200,000 per year.

The government employee has had his employer, the government, i.e.: us, paying into his pension plan from day one. The small business person in most cases is unable to contribute to an RRSP until later in life, as he has been putting all of his income into paying off the business.

The government employee receives vacation pay, pay for statutory holidays, pay for when he is sick or needs a “mental health day”. They are entitled to a “basket” of benefits such as medical, extended medical and insurance premiums. The small businessperson has received none of these benefits and their only ability to avoid retirement risk is simply to work harder and smarter now.

The reality is, for small business people, their corporation is their retirement vehicle and the Liberals propose to take it away.

The Liberals’ other proposal is to essentially eliminate family trusts through punitive taxation at the highest rates of tax for trust beneficiaries. This is based on the premise that “the reason for the existence of family trusts is to save tax”.

The true principal purpose of a trust is to facilitate the orderly transfer of an individual’s estate.

Trudeau, as a “trust fund baby”, should recognize this more than anyone.

Fundamentally, the Liberals are running $30 billion annual deficits and must have determined that since they are not likely to get many votes from the entrepreneurs that actually create wealth and jobs in Canada, they may as well tax them.

It will only be later, when these entrepreneurs, having lost all incentive to continue to build, simply give up. Then we will see the true cost of these misguided proposals.

Doug Johnston is a Certified Professional Accountant and founder of Johnston Johnston & Associates Ltd. in Nanaimo.

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