Business Examiner Vancouver Island - July 2016 by Business Examiner Media Group

JULY 2016

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PARKSVILLE

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Island Real Estate Office Takes National Awards Teamwork and determination enable brokerage to achieve success

Parksville

JOHN MACDONALD

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INDEX

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News Update Qualicum Beach INDEX Cowichan Valley News update Nanaimo Cowichan Valley Nanaimo Feature Nanaimo Comox Valley Parksville West Coast West Coast Campbell River Comox valley Who is Suing Whom Campbell River Movers and Shakers Port McNeil Opinion Movers & Shakers Law Opinion

2 7 9 102 9 12 11 32 18 44 19 45 20 49 22 51 24 54 32 55 36

OUR OUR 10TH 10TH YEAR YEAR

Canadian Publications Canadian Mail Acct.:Publications 40069240 Mail Acct.: 40069240

ARKSVILLE – Royal LePage Parksville-Qualicum Beach has been honored among Canada’s most outstanding real estate offices. Local realtor and office owner Clinton Miller recently received two prestigious accolades at the 2016 Royal LePage Leadership Conference in Nashville, Tennessee. Including the 2015 A.E. LePage Award for Brokerage of the Year - BC, and recognition for being one of the Top 5 Offices in Canada. The awards were presented following a comprehensive analysis of the brokerage’s business practices, including: sales volume, human resource practices and results, community engagement and a leadership evaluation. “This has been an incredible team effort,” says Miller. “Our group has done a phenomenal job

SEE ROYAL LEPAGE | PAGE 30

The team at Royal LePage Parksville Qualicum Beach with two major awards received from Royal LePage and the Shelter Foundation. (l-r) Ian Mackay, Lynn Martin, Clinton Miller, and Gary Hart

Cowichan Bay Firms a One Stop Shop for Real Estate Sales Worthy Custom Homes & Finance currently focuses on the Cowichan Valley BY DAVID HOLMES

OWICHAN BAY – Purchasing a home is in all likelihood the largest single expense a person will ever undertake in their lives. For even experienced home purchasers it can be intimidating, confusing and a cause for sleepless nights. Worthy Custom Homes & Finance (WCHF) has developed a unique

approach that eliminates the stress and worry by serving as a literal one stop shop when purchasing a new home. “We’re definitely unique in this market, we’re certainly not a conventional real estate office,” explained company President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) David Salmon. “The company actually began in Victoria in 1999 where we were

primarily involved in the financial side of things, structuring creative real estate deals and offered private funding. From there we found a niche helping people that needed assistance with financing, such as people who couldn’t quite qualify for conventional financing. That group was our target market in the beginning.” Today the company has evolved

into an entity specializing in not merely organizing the financing of a new home, but also serving as the custom builder of the home itself, in addition to working as residential developers. Fully licensed, bonded and insured, Worthy Custom Homes & Finance can take a client through a l l of t h e s t a ge s of a home SEE WORTHY CUSTOM HOMES | PAGE 42

2 VANCOUVER ISLAND Vancouver Island’s Economy Improving The CPABC Regional CheckUp, an annual economic report by the Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia (CPABC) found that the Vancouver Island/Coast’s economy is picking up after a sluggish year in 2014. “Most of the growth in our reg ion is happen i ng i n Victoria. Last year, we saw an increase of 7,284 new residents last year, with 89 per cent of them settling in the Victoria and Nanaimo areas. Continued population growth and record low interest rates stimulated real estate sales,” said Woody Hayes, FCPA, FCA, partner with Hayes Stewart Little & Company. “Increased tourism activity also added to the region’s econom ic g row th i n 2015. A lower Canadian dollar motivated more Canadians to have “staycations” and also attracted higher numbers of American and international visitors.” Economic growth stimulated job creation in the region. In 2015, the region’s job growth rate was 1.5 per cent, which was on par with Southwest BC and above the provincial growth rate of 1.2 per cent. The region’s

NEWS UPDATE labour market added 5,300 jobs in 2015, with the service sector making up the majority of the gains. Gains in the service sector were led by jobs created in the health care & social assistance, transportation and warehousing, and finance, insurance, real estate and leasing industries. These gains indicate an increase in demand for essential services that are driven by population growth. The goods sector saw an overall gain of 600 jobs in 2015. The construction industry added 3,800 jobs, which offset job cuts in the other four goods industries. The agriculture and manufacturing industries saw a combined loss of 2,800 jobs. Losses in the manufacturing industry were due to a reduction in wood and pulp manufacturing jobs. These losses likely reflect unfilled job vacancies rather than cuts, as the forestry industry remained active. The Port of Nanaimo saw increases of 12.1 and 17.5 per cent in lumber and raw logs export volume in 2015. Report Highlights: As of September 2015, there were 148 major projects valued at $61.8 billion in the region – 69 projects valued at $47.4 billion were proposed, 57 valued at $11.9 billion were under construction, and 18 valued at $2.5 billion were on hold. Proposed LNG projects comprised more than half or $32.0 billion of total major project value. In 2015, the region’s consumer

insolvency rate per 1,000 adults (aged 18 and older) remained unchanged from 2014 at 3.0 per 1,000 adults. There were 28 reported business bankruptcies in the region in 2015 compared to 39 in 2014. This is an indication that the region’s economy is improving.

PARKSVILLE/ QUALICUM 2016 Looking to be Another Banner Year for Tourism PQ News T hose who watch tou r i sm numbers closely in our region say 2016 is shaping up to be better than 2015 — and that was a record year for many operators. The numbers available from the first four months of the year show occupancy rates at hotels, motels, etc. were up 13 per cent from 2015 and the all-important revenue per available room stat shows a 37 per cent increase, said Blain Sepos, executive director of the Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism Association. Looking forward for the rest of 2016, Sepos said he’s hearing from a number of hotel members who say they are entering a month already having made their budgets because of all the bookings they have. “T he com mon v iew is that

JULY 2016

because ou r dol la r is wea k, Canadians aren’t travelling to the States, they are coming here instead, but I’m not sure that’s entirely the case,” said Sepos, pointing to the fact the loonie is about the same value now compared to the greenback as it was in May or June, 2015. Still, Sepos said some less scientific indicators point to the fact Canadians are spending their money here rather than south of the border, said Sepos. “We’ve seen a lot of red plates (Albertans),” he said. “We’re cheaper than going to the States or Bahamas.” Parksville and District Chamber of Commerce executive director Kim Burden said he is also hearing good-year stories. Burden said 6,000 people have stopped in the visitor’s centre at the chamber in 2016. That’s double the number over the same period last year, he said. The BC government reports that the number of international visitors to the province went over the million mark for the first few months of 2016. From Ja nua r y to Apri l, 1,172,637 visitors came to BC resulting in an 18.2 per cent increase over the same period last year, according to a news release. BC ex per ienced g row t h i n international overnight entries from some of its key markets in April over the same month in 2015, including: ■ Germany up 33.4 per cent.

■ China up 32.9 per cent. ■ South Korea up 31.9 per cent. ■ Mexico up 28 per cent

VANCOUVER ISLAND BC Ferries Releases Year-End Results BC Ferries released its year-end results for fiscal 2016. Consolidated net earnings were $69.6 million for fiscal 2016, compared to consolidated net earnings of $49.1 million for fiscal 2015. “ We a re plea sed w it h t h i s year’s net earnings as they ref lect an improving economic outlook for BC in general, as well as the success of our cost containment practices over the past few years along with the recent increase in traffic. Put into context, this year’s earnings are approximately the cost of one of the three new Salish-Class vessels currently under construction to replace 50-year old ships,” said Mike Corrigan, BC Ferries’ President and CEO. “Over the next 12 years, a $3 billion capital program is required to replace aging vessels, assets and information technology to ensure the long-term viability of our coastal ferry service. With the average age of our fleet at 33 years, we need to renew or replace a ship a year for the next SEE NEWS UPDATE | PAGE 3

NEWS UPDATE

JULY 2016

NEWS UPDATE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

decade and continue to invest in the future.” R e v e n u e s i n c re a s e d f ro m $841.1 million in fiscal 2015 to $869.8 million in fiscal 2016, primarily due to an increase in traffic volume, driven by a lower Canadian dollar and the general improvement in BC’s economic activity. Operating expenses increased from $722.5 million in fiscal 2015 to $744.2 million in fiscal 2016. The $21.7 million increase is primarily due to increases in maintenance, labour, cost of goods sold and amortization costs, offset by lower fuel costs. Capital expenditures in the three and twelve months ended March 31, 2016 totalled $70.3 million and $181.2 million, respectively. For fiscal 2016, $114.2 million of these investments were for vessel upgrades and modifications, with the remainder for terminal marine structures; terminal and building upgrades and equipment; and information technology. In fiscal 2016, BC Ferries experienced a 4.9 per cent increase in vehicle traffic and a 4.5 per cent increase in passenger traffic compared to fiscal 2015. This increase in traffic sees a return to traffic levels experienced in 2009 prior to the turbulence i n t he Ca n a d i a n a nd world economies.

VANCOUVER ISLAND Several road and bridge improvements coming to Vancouver Island Keeping provincial highways, bridges and side roads in good condition is key to a safe and reliable transportation network, and government has earmarked more than $28 million for this year’s rehabilitation program on Vancouver Island. These new projects include: $4.4 million to resurface sections of H ig hway 1 between

Duncan and Mill Bay $4 million to replace the San Josef Bridge located on San Josef Road, west of Port Hardy $3.3 million to resurface Highway 28 near Buttle Narrows between Campbell River and Gold River $3.2 million to resurface sections of Highway 4 between Port Alberni and Tofino $2 million towards the Eve River Bridge embankment stabilization project on Highway 19, north of Sayward “This year’s transportation projects will benefit recreational and commercial traffic as well as local residents and commuters,” said Comox Valley MLA Don McRae. “This is a substantial investment that is great news for our communities for the jobs being created along with the safer and smoother connections that will result.” Work begins this spring depending on the weather conditions at each project location, and all are anticipated to be completed by fall.

Bigelow explained that Northern Vancouver Island residents continued a strong pattern of travel throughout 2015, in particular with the utilization of YQQ’s new Air Canada service to Vancouver. The route experienced outstanding growth of 45 per cent since the airline began operating out of Comox in May. WestJet added Q400 service to Calgary early in 2015, culminating in a 28 per cent increase in new seats at YQQ since 2013. The airline did not waver in its commitment to Comox, even as the economy in Alberta weakened. YQQ passengers continued to support the service, adding to growing numbers at the airport as passengers accessed new destinations in WestJet’s ever

growing network. Despite double digit growth, the Comox Valley Airport Commission took a cautious approach with finances in 2015/16, recognizing current growth patterns are unlikely to be sustained in the coming years. YQQ reported an increase in revenue from $4.0 million to $4.3 million while expenses increased slightly from $3.2 million to $3.3 million, resulting in a net surplus of $1.1 million. “It is important that we invest our savings now, for future expenditures like parking lot expansion and building maintenance as our terminal is beginning to show the first signs of wear and tear since its opening a decade ago,” explained

3 B i ge l o w. “ We a re p ro u d to have one of the lowest Airport Improvement Fees in the country and we plan to maintain that competitive edge by ensuring our future infrastructure needs are planned for in a cost effective manner.” The Commission also unveiled its new five-year strategic plan wh ich i ncluded a n upd ated Vision, Mission and Goals for the Comox Valley Airport. The Commission’s new Mission has been adjusted to recognize the link between air service and the local economy, and its ensuing Goals focus on air service development, fiscal responsibility, master planning and employee retention.

April 16, 2016

A 7.8 Magnitude Earthquake Hit Ecuador Hundreds died. Thousands were injured.

COMOX VALLEY Comox Valley Airport Unveils Strategic Plan T h e C o m o x Va l l e y A i r port (YQQ ) was pleased to report a record-setting 10 per cent growth in passenger numbers despite economic challenges, including a weakening Canadian dollar and declining transborder travel patterns. Passenger traffic at YQQ reached an all-time high of 351,530 in 2015. The same year oil prices saw a sharp drop, resulting in massive energy sector layoffs which created ripple effects across the country for communities linked to oil patch employment. “We were very fortunate to maintain our levels of air service at the Comox Valley Airport when capacity was being reduced at other western stations due to the economic conditions in Alberta,” said Comox Valley Airport CEO, Fred Bigelow.

ntire towns the size of Nanaimo and larger were left with 80-90% of the structures destroyed. No one has insurance. Now that the Quake is past the news cycle, the donations are slowing. The Ecuadorian people are asking the Vancouver Island business community to help by giving to a charity that is currently on the ground helping. Two such charities are:

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VANCOUVER ISLAND

JULY 2016

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Adult Experiential Training Program Held its First Class In 2005 BY DAVID HOLMES

ANAIMO – For more than a decade Leadership Vancouver Island (LVI) has been offering grassroots leadership development programs for participants of all ages and from communities all across the region. With a stated mission of delivering transformational personal and professional development experiences, LVI graduated its latest class in mid June, and is gearing up for its next class, set to begin in September. “We started Leadership Vancouver Island 11 years ago through the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce. The concept was to bring a leadership development program to the smaller communities,” explained Russ Burke, LVI’s Recruitment and Sponsorship Chair. “Major cities have had these leadership programs for years but it was something not readily available

Leadership2: Sponsor Steve Arnett and Tara Plett both of Nanaimo Youth Services Association in the smaller centers. It was difficult for the local Chamber to come up with the funding to do that so we approached the BC Chamber of Commerce and they were able to get some funds through corporate donations, from BC Hydro, Terasen Gas and others.” In 2004 Dr. Ken Hammer (from what was then Malaspina University-College) was h i red to help

organize the program and to establish a curriculum for the participants. The process was approved by the BC Chamber in 2005 and that year a pilot project for Leadership BC was launched in Kamloops, Quesnel and in Nanaimo. The following year a Ladysmith project was launched. The Nanaimo and Ladysmith programs were SEE LEADERSHIP | PAGE 5

VANCOUVER ISLAND

JULY 2016

Russ Burke is the Recruitment and Sponsorship Chair for Leadership Vancouver Island

“We bring in people from all different walks of life Participants in the last program included (l to r): Will Scott, Tara Plett, Meaghan Douglas, Brenda Krastel, Kait Bergan

to deliver the curriculum.”

LEADERSHIP

RUSS BURKE

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

amalgamated several years ago and a new program launched in the Tofino/Ucluelet area. “This program is not strictly about youth. The people in the program range from age 18 to 73. We have people in the program in their 20’s, 30’s, 40’s, 50’s and 60’s including a 73 year old grandmother who said at the end she did this to tell her grandchildren that she had graduated from something, as she wasn’t able to coming out of school.”

Students in the program (the class size is limited to a maximum of 25) participate in a minimum of 80 hours of instruction spread over a 10 month period. The process involves a two-day leadership retreat, eight full day seminars and ultimately the development of viable and deployable community projects working in co-operation with existing community organizations. “There is a $2,000 tuition fee to participate. Most people are sponsored by their employers but we expect them to come up with $300 of their own money as we feel

it’s not a great idea for them to be there because their boss thinks it’s a good idea, they need to be honestly motivated for the program to really benefit them,” Burke said. The class begins each September, but by November the participants will have broken off into smaller groups which are then tasked with developing a community project they can develop and introduce. “Once in the smaller groups they decide upon a community program for them to undertake. They have to come up with the idea, they have to have a community partner, they have to design it, they have to

RECRUITMENT AND SPONSORSHIP CHAIR, LEADERSHIP VI

5 execute it and it has to be done by graduation in June. Much of the actual leadership learning takes place during that phase of the program.” Not a strictly academic program (although the course is recognized by Vancouver Island University (VIU) as being worth six transferable credits), the core of the experience is the hands on application and launch of the various individual projects. “It’s very much an adult experiential program. We bring in people from the community, they may be professors from VIU, and they may be motivational people from Vancouver. We bring in people from all different walks of life to deliver the curriculum. But really it’s all about the experience of doing, it’s not all about book learning,” he said. With a mantra of: Leading Self, Leading Others, Leading Community, the Leadership VI organizers are confident the program will continue to inspire, educate and motivate community and business leaders throughout the region. With the next class set to begin in September, and with about 16 people already signed up the future of the program looks very bright. “We’re offering a program for individuals that will provide them with a broader set of skills that will place them in a better position for self leadership, leadership in their workplace and leadership in their home environment,” Burke said. To learn more please visit the company’s website at w w w. leadershipvi.com

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ACCOUNTING

JULY 2016

REGULAR AND ACCURATE FINANCIAL REPORTING

s Chartered Professional Accountants we provide the objectivity as an independent advisor to help business owners realize their full potential. We are in a unique position to not only report on financial results, but to also understand all the inputs that created those results. I have recently had the pleasure to work with two Vancouver Island based businesses, both with profits in excess of $1 million per year. What makes these successful companies different? First, I would say they take a broad view of their business by focusing on growing their wealth as opposed to concentrating on increasing sales or reducing expenses. Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s look at a few examples to help illustrate what I mean: Well managed and profitable businesses have streamlined business processes and work hard to remove duplicated efforts and tasks. Even without intimate knowledge of a particular business we can often help by conducting a walkthrough of sales, production and cash management processes. This identifies areas of strength and weakness in a business system. Wages are typically the most significant cost in a business. While it might appear obvious that profitability increases by using fewer or less expensive workers, the businesses with the great profits

Mike Berris, CPA, CA, CBV noted above have plenty of employees earning good wages. However, these companies have analyzed and developed processes that make them efficient. If employees do not have a good idea on how the entire organization works as a team, they tend to protect their territory by creating silos. Generally, we identify this by the way employees share information, help in the sales efforts and how they handle administrative duties. Sometimes it is merely the case of being stuck in a process because that is the way it has always been done. Proper utilization of business assets is so important. This ranges from your credit and accounts receivable policies, inventory management and utilization of capital assets. Effective business management

is ultimately about making good business decisions and executing on a consistent basis. Too many business decisions are based on gut feel, often because of incomplete information. Business decisions and processes should be based on feedback from customers, employees and good financial analysis. Good financial reporting is much more than preparing financial statements once a year for the tax department or your banker. Take the time to learn what the profit drivers of your business are and how to manage them. This starts with good basic bookkeeping that produces an accurate monthly financial statement. We are very aware that your day-to-day schedule leaves little time to work on your business rather than in it. Having said that, we have firsthand experience of the financial rewards (cash flow and wealth creation) that come about when businesses take the time to develop information systems, and have the willingness to change obsolete or inefficient work habits or systems. Yes it takes effort, but it can also reap significant rewards. Smythe LLP is a team of dedicated professionals who provide reliable accounting, tax and advisory services to businesses and individuals. They can be reached at 250-751-3383.

QUALICUM BEACH

JULY 2016

Qualicum Beach resident opening first store Q Parksville Qualicum Beach News UA L ICU M BE ACH Cheryl Campbell h a s spent her career designing and redesigning other peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s stores, but now itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s her time. Campbell, the owner of Alcove Homegrown Living (689 Memorial Ave., Qualicum Beach), has had a career as a visual merchandiser her for more than 25 years, but recently she said she decided it was her turn to open a store. A s a v i su a l merch a nd i ser, Campbell said she would do window displays, store merchandising and special event. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Visual merchandisers are the people who show and sell the products,â&#x20AC;? Campbell said. The soft opening for Alcove Homegrown Living was June 1 and then the grand opening was June 19 which Campbell said made sense because it coincided with the Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Show & Shine in Qualicum Beach. However, Campbell said the idea for the store was a quick process. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We decided early-ish in the spring to open, so it was a pretty quick turnaround,â&#x20AC;? said Campbell, adding that once the location became available, things started picking up. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It made me move a bit quicker than I had expected. Once we made the decision, we got organized. I

gathered a team together and we pulled it all together.â&#x20AC;? The entire process, Campbell said a â&#x20AC;&#x153;family thing.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our kids were definitely really instrumental. Everyone was really supportive,â&#x20AC;? said Campbell, adding that her son Geoff, who is a graphic designer, and her daughter Kyla, who owns Realm Food Co. in Parksville, helped throughout the process. Campbell said Kyla helped with the brand and the name of the store, while Geoff did all the brand identity for Alcove Homegrown Living. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everything that you see, he created and helped me design all the signage, my business cards, my promotional material, Facebook,â&#x20AC;? Campbell said. Geoff is working on the website, which he said is a â&#x20AC;&#x153;work in progress,â&#x20AC;? but it should be up and running in about a month. Geoff said he spent a lot of time drawing different forms and shapes to come up with the logo. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We just wanted it to feel natural and organic to fit the mood of the shop,â&#x20AC;? Geoff said. The whole premise behind Alcove Homegrown Living is products that are made within 100 miles of the store. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If I was going to open a retail store, I wanted to do something that was in my heart, something

that I believed in and supporting the community,â&#x20AC;? Campbell said. And people already recognize some of the designersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and artistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; work in the store, according to Campbell. Campbell said she built the business on body care, wearables, ed ibles, a r twork a nd things for the home. When coming up with the idea for the store, Campbell said she had an idea of some of the products she wanted to sell. She added she went to the Make It show in Vancouver to get an idea for some handmade products.

From left: Mikhayla Roht and owner Cheryl Campbell have been working to get the store up and running in the past few weeks since the soft opening on June 1 CREDIT: LAUREN COLLINS PHOTO

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REAL ESTATE

JULY 2016

Vancouver Island Lifestyle A Genuine Selling Feature Region Noted For Its Exceptional Real Estate Opportunities

ANAIMO – Ask anyone who has moved to Vancouver Island why they made their decision to relocate and the odds are extremely good that the word ‘lifestyle’ will come up in the conversation at some point. It’s no exaggeration to say that we’re living in just about the best place anywhere. The weather is fantastic, the recreational and social activities are boundless and if we’re talking about real estate prices, a quick glance at what it costs to buy in the Lower Mainland tells its own story. Some potential mainland-based purchasers may be concerned about living on an island, but when you think about it downtown Vancouver is only 35 kilometers away and is easily accessible by float plane and by multiple ferry routes. W hat about those outrageous home prices? During the past year, the benchmark price for a detached home in the region - not just the City of Vancouver itself - has climbed 30.1 percent, to $1.4 million, according to new numbers from the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV). In sharp contrast, according to the recently released Vancouver Island Real Estate Board (VIREB) Buyer Profile, in 2015 86 per cent of the homes purchased across the Board’s coverage area were priced under $500,000 with less than 1 per cent selling for more than $1 million.

“I moved my family to Vancouver Island in 2008 for affordability and lifestyle and have never looked back.” JOHN COOPER PARTNER, COOPER, MCLINTOCK & ASSOCIATES

This dramatic price difference highlights what an incredible opportunity awaits anyone considering a move from the Lower Mainland to Vancouver Island. With a growing number of transportation options, the feasibility of living on Vancouver Island and remaining connected to the Mainland has never been simpler. Outside of Greater Victoria, Vancouver Island still boasts an average single family sale price of under $400,000. With record low unemployment and virtually no traffic due to congestion – what more could you want? I moved my family to Vancouver Island in 2008 for affordability and lifestyle and have never looked back. I enjoy ultra convenient access to Vancouver with money left over for travel and adventure and time left over to spend with my family. For more information, he can be reached at 250-751-1223 or by e-mail at john@ coopermclintock.com.

COWICHAN VALLEY

JULY 2016

SUNFEST COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL AROUND THE CORNER Chambers of Commerce across the island and the province are looking at integration model

COWICHAN VALLEY SONJA NAGEL

h e D u n c a n C ow i c h a n Chamber of Commerce is proud to be one of 125 Chambers belonging to the BC Chamber of Commerce. We are also pleased to announce the new President and CEO for the BC Chamber of Commerce is Val Litwin. Currently the President of the Whistler Chamber, Mr. Litwin takes the helm of the provincial Chamber on September 7. Unfortunately, South Cowichan Chamber of Commerce has dissolved, leaving the Valley with four Chambers, each of which operates a Visitor Centre. These are the Duncan Cowichan Chamber, Chemainus and District Chamber, Cowichan Lake District Chamber and Ladysmith Chamber. The Duncan

Cowichan Chamber Board and staff are working to welcome former South Cowichan Chambers to our Chamber family. Chambers of Commerce across the island and the province are looking at integration models. The Esquimalt Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce recently agreed to work toward integration. Recent task force findings indicated that integration will provide increased benefits to members while reducing administrative overhead. ■■■ Like most island destinations this year, the Cowichan Valley has a substantial increase in visitors from Canada, the U.S. and Europe with a 10 per cent increase in visitors served at the Cowichan Regional Visitor Centre. Since January 2016, visitor centre staff and volunteers have also reached out to almost 2500 individuals at events through

John Daly and Paul Goydos commit to Pacific Links Championship

ICTORIA – Two-time major champion John Daly and 2014 winner Paul Goydos have committed to the 2016 Pacific Links Championship, tournament officials announced today at a press conference held at host site Bear Mountain Resort. The 2016 Pacific Links Championship will be contested on the Resort’s Mountain Course the week of September 19-25. The long-hitting Daly shocked the golf world in 1991 when he went from ninth alternate to tournament winner at the PGA Championship at Crooked Stick Golf Club in Indiana. The unknown former Arkansas Razorback brought drives in excess of 300 yards and a fanatical fan base to golf on his way to securing PGA TOUR “Rookie of the Year” honors that season. Daly collected five PGA TOUR champion titles throughout his career, including the 1995 Open Championship at St. Andrews, where he defeated Italy’s Constantino Rocca in a playoff, after Rocca made a 60-foot putt from the famed Valley of Sin on the final hole of regulation to force extra holes. On April 28, 2016, Daly turned 50 and began competing on PGA TOUR Champions, where he has already recorded two Top-20 finishes in his first six starts.

Daly is one of a handful of major champions to commit to the US$2.5 million event over the past week, including Mark Calcavecchia, Jeff Sluman, Larry Mize and Bob Tway. Goydos won twice during a 22year PGA TOUR career, claiming the 1996 Arnold Palmer Invitational and the 2007 Sony Open in Hawaii. After winning in Hawaii, the Long Beach, CA native famously battled Sergio Garcia down the stretch at THE PLAYERS Championship, only to finish runner-up after a playoff loss which ended on the iconic island green par-3 17th. In 2010, the affable Goydos again made headlines when he recorded a first-round 59 at the John Deere Classic, becoming the fourth player to post golf’s magic number in PGA TOUR history, as well as the oldest to do so at the age of 46 years and 18 days. At the 2014 Pacific Links Championship, Goydos notched the first of his two career PGA TOUR Cha mpions titles, posting a 19-under 197 total for a one-shot victory over Fred Funk and Scott Dunlap. The tournament also announced that tickets for the 2016 Pacific Links Championship are now on sale. Fans can visit www.selectyourtickets.com to purchase tickets.

the Mobile Visitor Services Program. These increases continue to demonstrate the effectiveness of face-to-face engagement to help guests make the most of their time in Cowichan. ■■■ The Cowichan Valley Regional District recently approved a five-year agreement with new Tourism Cowichan Society to deliver destination marketing. Destination BC is matching the CVRD funding. The Society will develop and launch an aggressive marketing campaign positioning Cowichan as a leading destination. ■■■ The Sunfest Country Music Festival takes place at the new, purpose-built Laketown Ranch Music and Recreation Park on the north side of Lake Cowichan. The new location offers expanded camping, parking and accommodates even more country music fans. The Festival is offering regular shuttles from Victoria, Duncan and Youbou. Sunfest runs July 28 – 31 and the line-up includes: Carrie Underwood, Dallas Smith, Dierks Bentley, High Valley, Neal McCoy, The Road Hammers and others. In addition to BC’s premiere country music festival, Cowichan is home to the Islands Folk Festival, July 22 – 24, the Rock the Woods Music Festival on July

21, and the 39 Days of July Summer Festival is on now through to August 1. ■■■ The Chamber welcomed seven new members in June: Maple Bay Day Charters, WeeChip Cowichan, Station Street Eyecare, Village Chippery, McLay Heritage

House, KW Doors and Windows and A Memorable Canadian Gift. Sonja Nagel is Executive Director of the Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at manager@duncancc.bc.ca or 250-748-1111

NANAIMO

JULY 2016

CAN TECH TAKE OVER?

NANAIMO KIM SMYTHE

anaimo is recognized as the 4th community in the province leading the way

in growth of tech sector development – right behind Kelowna, Victoria & Vancouver. BC’s technology sector supports innovation, new product development and new business models in sectors identified as priorities in the BC Jobs Plan. This, in turn, supports the creation of high-paying jobs that give families economic stability and builds vibrant communities. Provincially, the technology sector directly employs more than 86,000 people, and wages for those jobs are 60 per cent higher than BC’s industrial average. In 2013, the sector grew at a rate of 4.7 per cent, a higher rate than the 3.2 per cent growth observed in the provincial economy. New

technology companies are emerging at increasing rates throughout the province and Nanaimo makes an appealing location due to its proximity to the heart of the sector, Vancouver, and because of its affordable, attractive lifestyle opportunities. BC is a global technology leader, with strong industry clusters that include clean technology; information and communication technologies; wireless, digital and screen-based media; and health and life sciences. Nanaimo is well-positioned for further tech growth based on its diversification towards an educational, knowledge-based and health sciences economy. In December, the province

announced the launch of a $100 million venture capital fund. But, capital is only one of three pillars in the #BCTECH Strategy. The remaining two pillars, talent and markets, include actions to deepen the technology talent pool by developing and attracting the highest quality talent, and actions to make it easier to access new markets. This, in addition to recent announcements of changes to the K-12 curriculum that provides every student with the opportunity to learn computer coding by Grade 9, reinforces support of growth in the economy with an accompanying growth in jobs and business startups stimulating further positive business activity in communities all over

Vancouver Island. Minister of Technology Amrik Virk will be in Nanaimo this month to explain the development of the province’s tech strategy and where the future might take us. Other speakers will offer their opinion on whether tech will take over Nanaimo’s economy or, more aptly, when! Minister Virk is our keynote speaker at the Chamber’s July monthly luncheon to be held at the Nanaimo Golf Course on July 13. Tickets at www. nanaimochamber.bc.ca Kim Smythe is CEO of the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce. He can be reached at ceo@ nanaimochamber.bc.ca

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actually protected? I recently reviewed a patent that was named one thing and claimed quite a different thing. That is a pretty obvious issue to deal with, but what is not easily dealt with is reviewing and understanding the claims. If they are very broad, then the patent probably has a reasonable value. If they are very narrow, then, in most cases, the value of the patent will be less. A broad claim can be defined as having few elements or features recited. A claim to a table having four legs would be a very broad claim. A claim to a table having four legs, an oak top, each leg attached to the oak top with a one inch bolt would be a narrower claim. You would have difficulty avoiding the first claim, but it would be easy to avoid the second claim, as all you would have to do is make the top out of a different material or use anything other than one inch bolts to attach the legs to the top. Unfortunately, it is not quite that simple. The claim would probably not refer to one inch bolts, but would refer to a fastener, and no length of the fastener would be recited. Now you have to know how to construe the claim and that means reading the entire application and all the claims. Having done that, a determination can be made as to what the applicant really means. This is the time to bring in the patent professional who can make that determination for you. Next month I will continue on this discussion and will focus on making an assessment for applications that are pending and have not gone to grant. Anne Flanagan is the principal at Alliance Patents. She works with a cadre of highly skilled professionals and can help you build the team you need to succeed. She can be reached at anne.flanagan@alliancepatents.com

JULY 2016

COAST BASTION HOTEL: KEY PART OF LOCAL HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY “I knew right away that Downtown Hotel A Nanaimo Landmark For More Than 30 Years

I wanted to move to Nanaimo and that this is the hotel I wanted.”

ANAIMO – A landmark structure in the city’s downtown core, an iconic Nanaimo building and a cornerstone of the region’s hospitality sector the Coast Bastion Hotel has been a fixture for lodgings and gatherings in the city for more than 30 years. Overlooking the historic Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) Bastion and the city’s breathtaking waterfront, the Coast Bastion Hotel is a major employer, significant tax payer and a vital part of Nanaimo’s downtown business community. Current General Manager Henry Traa has been with the hotel since last October, moving to the Harbour City from Winnipeg where he was involved in developing hotel properties. “I’m fairly new to Nanaimo but I knew two years ago that my wife and I wanted to move here,” he explained. In Winnipeg he worked for Lakeview Management Inc. for more than 24 years, where he was Vice President of Operations and Development. Lakeview, founded in 1964 by entrepreneur Jack Levit, is a major player in the real estate and hospitality development sector, and is Manitoba’s largest hotel company. “Was VP Development for Lakeview Management who help developed, operated and Managed Lakeview Hotels group of Hotels. We were a development company and through its Lakeview Hotels division we managed hotels, all the nitty-gritty stuff such as selecting the site, design, construction and the actual operation.” Following his time with Lakeview he moved onto the Winnipeg Convention Centre where he functioned as its Vice President of Operations. Working with the Convention Centre for five years he expanded on his extensive hospitality sector experience. While travelling on holidays with his wife

HENRY TRAA GENERAL MANAGER, COAST BASTION HOTEL

he visited Nanaimo and knew immediately that he had found the place where he wanted to live. “I knew right away that I wanted to move to Nanaimo and that this is the hotel I wanted, so as Coast was looking for a General Manager I sent in my resume,” he said. “My wife and I did a road trip from Kelowna to Victoria to see where we might want to end up, came to Nanaimo and I fell in love it with it at first sight. I’m here for the long haul, we bought a lot and we’re going to build a house, so it’s a major commitment to the city.” Constructed in the mid-1980s, the Coast Bastion Hotel is a 14 story structure featuring 179 guest rooms, assorted banquet and meeting room services, the elegant Minnoz Restaurant & Lounge and has a staff of nearly 90 full time employees (some Ambassadors that have now worked at the hotel for 30 years). No stranger to the role of hotel General Manager Traa had previously held an identical position at the Radisson Suites Hotel in Winnipeg, a 160 suite room facility in the city’s downtown core. “That was in 1990 so I have a long history of running hotels, but I’m really excited about being part of the Coast Bastion,” he said. “A lot of careful thought obviously went into the design of this hotel. What a fabulous location the designers had to work with! Imagine being able to overlook the harbor as we do, it’s an absolutely fabulous location. Whoever had the foresight to build the guest rooms the way they did, where 99 per cent of your guest rooms are facing the harbor, really has to be applauded. One of the things I really like is that pretty much all of the rooms can enjoy the views,” he said. Constructed just over 30 years ago the Coast Bastion Hotel is

General Manager Henry Traa (right) confers with Derek Anderson, one of the hotel’s nearly 90 employees

A local landmark the Coast Bastion Hotel has dominated the city’s skyline for more than 30 years

From Manitoba, Henry Traa has readily embraced the city’s distinctive West Coast lifestyle managed by the Coast Hotel group through a management contract, but the building and the business itself is actually owned by the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE), Local 115 through the membership’s pension fund. “Coast Hotels has now managed the Coast Bastion for the IUOE for 30 Years,” Traa explained. As a key part of the Nanaimo hospitality sector the Coast Bastion and its staff find themselves busy years round. Not counting restaurant visitors, attendees at banquets or participants in the symposiums and workshops that are continually being held at the complex the hotel will welcome an average of 7,000 guests per month. “People don’t realize how many people

come through this building every month, that’s just guests, that’s not counting the banquets and the other functions we host,” he said. A community resource, the Coast Bastion Hotel’s meeting rooms and banquet facilities have been the focal point of countless functions over the past 30 years, while injecting millions of dollars into the local economy annually. From the extensive employee payroll to the purchase of services and materials locally, the hotel is a central player in the downtown business community’s economic vitality. “We want to be viewed as a community resource as we are a big part of the community. We want the community to use it, we want them to come here,” Traa explained. “We work very closely with the Symphony because we’re right next door to the Port Theatre which we view as a great downtown asset – the theatre and the entire Vancouver Island Conference Centre (VICC). This relationship is good for all partners. People can make a night out of it – they can come here

for dinner and then go to the theatre and its all only minutes apart.” For Traa having the VICC in such close proximity is a real benefit for his operation. “A Conference Centre’s job is to sell conferences and that means we’re here to sell guest rooms so we have to work in partnership with the Conference Centre. It’s here, I don’t think it’s going anywhere right now so our job is to find a way help them sell conferences so we can sell guest rooms.” For the future Traa says his facility will continue to do what it has done for decades, provide quality accommodation, fine dining and a range of banquet and meeting rooms for its expanding list of clients. “We hope to continue seeing the hotel serve as a staple in Nanaimo. We’re proud to be here. I known the Coast Hotels group are also proud to be in Nanaimo. We’re here to stay and I hope to be here to train someone to take over from me one day to continue that legacy.” For more i n formation v isi t t h e h o t e l ’s w e b s i t e a t : www.coasthotels.com

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JULY 2016

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NANAIMO Nanaimo a Viable Option for Technology Start-ups A fresh perspective, growing technology industry, affordable housing and increased tourism builds city’s profile BETH HENDRY-YIM

ohn Hankins, new CEO of the Nanaimo Economic Development Corporation, wants to raise the profile of the harbour city. “We’re listening to the narratives about Nanaimo with a fresh perspective and focusing the dialogue around the city’s affordability, its access to larger communities, the friendl i ness of the people a nd the successful companies that are already making a mark on the international marketplace,” he said. Since he took over the helm in January of this year, Hankins has already welcomed Bloomberg P ress to t he cit y for a n a r t icle about Na n a i mo t h at

made it to the National Post and the Globe and Mail. Named a ‘made-in-BC solution’, the article showcased Nanaimo’s prox im ity to Va ncouver a nd t h e p o te nt i a l for p e ople to work in the big city, afford a home i n Na na i mo a nd enjoy the West Coast lifestyle. “I a l so wa nt to se e at tention on Nanaimo as a vibrant business hub,” Hankins said. “We’ve got well-established compa n ies l i ke Inuktun a nd V M AC pro du ci n g h i g h-end products a nd doi ng very wel l. R a isi ng awa reness has brought the Conference Board of Canada to the city to host their Western Outlook. We’ve a lso seen v isits from the US SEE NANAIMO | PAGE 13

Summer tech party with JP Obbagy, board vice chair of Innovation Island, Paris Gaudet, executive director and Graham Truax, executive in residence CREDIT:LISA HENDERSON

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NANAIMO

JULY 2016

13 NANAIMO CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

commercial consulate with future visits expected from other commercial consulates including the UK and Australia.” T he NEDC has also been wo rk i n g c l o s e l y w i t h Va ncouver Island University researching specific industries that would fit well in the community, like the clean technology sector. “We applied for and received funding to create a profile of t h i s sector a s it h a s a lot of potential for the island. T he report is slated to be released in September.” R a n k i n added, t hat i n Ju ly NEDC will be celebrating the second yea r a n n iversa r y of “Square One” a tech incubator and co-working space for remote technology workers. “It has propel led Na na i mo

Marine Domain Awareness broadcasts weather data to surrounding vessels for real time decision making SEE NANAIMO | PAGE 14

CREDIT:NANAIMO PORT AUTHORITY

INCREASED CAPACITY AT NANAIMO PORT AUTHORITY LOWERS COSTS FOR TRUCKING COMPANY Warmland Logistics sees deep sea berth and container service improving efficiencies in moving freight

ANAIMO - Greater options, greener footprint and a better return on investment has Phil Chambers, vice president of Warmland Logistics Inc., excited about partnering with the Nanaimo Port Authority (NPA) and DP World Nanaimo. A new barge berth, a load on/ load off container service and the expertise and connections of a world leader in international shipping logistics is offering Chambers and Vancouver Island better opportunities in importing and exporting. “Having a container service from Vancouver to Vancouver Island means my customers get their goods faster and at a lower cost,” Chambers said. Warmland transports a diverse variety of products that includes recycling materials, manufactured goods, and general trade items. It has 10 employees and two owner/operators and has

www.npa.ca

been serving the central island for 5 years. Chambers, who has been in the trucking and logistics industry for 20 years, said that in this highly competitive field the new services provided by NPA and DP World are helping to reduce shipping time and costs and is giving his company an edge in the marketplace. “Profit margins are low and the price of fuel high,” he explained. “If there are options that save the company and my customers money, those savings get passed down the line to the consumer and everyone is happy.” He explained that part of the savings comes as a direct result of NPA’s installation of a new barge berth which adds an additional 82 metres to the existing 170-metre deep sea berth. According to David Mailloux, manager, communications and public affairs at NPA, the new berth allows simultaneous loading and discharging efficiencies. “The expanded deep sea berthing option reduces congestion and delays while increasing capacity and versatility,” he added. The expansion also means solutions for short sea shipping links to the mainland terminals, in particular, DP World’s Vancouver Centerm container terminal, and

www.dpworld.ca

“The more people that utilize the service, the lower the costs and that enriches everyone’s bottom line.” PHIL CHAMBERS VICE PRESIDENT WARMLAND LOGISTICS INC.

more direct connections to global markets. For local lumberyards, garden centres, seasonal importers, the aerospace industry, manufacturers or even breweries importing raw materials, the increased efficiency and cost saving is appealing. “The DP World Vancouver/ Centerm route is attracti ng new clients to Warmland,” said Chambers. “The service is significantly cheaper, with the ability to move a higher volume of containers to Nanaimo or the lower mainland headache free.” He added that there is even an ocean going line-Westwood Shipping-that calls in at the Nanaimo Port Authority once a month, providing direct access to the Asian market. For Chambers, higher capacity,

Phil Chambers said the new facilities at NPA save his company time and money CREDIT:WARMLAND LOGISTICS INC.

shorter distances travelled and reduced fuel usage also means a greener footprint. DP World barges can carry as many as 168 containers, saving a number of trips back and forth and reducing cargo emissions by as much as 62 per cent. “B u nd l i n g sh ipments a nd transporting containers in quantity cuts down on the amount of distance and time they are on the road,” he said. The addition of a mobile harbour crane has also increased NPA and DP World’s capacity to handle shipments better and faster. At 104 metric tonnes with a 51-meter

outreach, the crane optimizes Vancouver Island’s first load-on/ load-off container service to Vancouver. With DP World awarded the right to operate the Port of Nanaimo’s facilities, it allows DP World Vancouver and NPA a greater ability to diversify the variety of commodities handled between cities. “Improving efficiency is everything in this business,” Chambers emphasized. “The faster you move the customer’s product the better. The crane is one more tool to speed up the transport of goods.” Chambers added that for many, shipping freight via barge and the deep sea port in Nanaimo is a new way of looking at moving product on Vancouver Island and it has opened up new opportunities. “To keep your expenses down you have to look at the movement of customer goods in a different way,” he said. “If you can offer clients a reduction in shipping costs you’re going to increase your customer base. The more people that utilize the service, the lower the costs and that enriches everyone’s bottom line.” Discover a new and better way of transporting your goods. Contact 250-722-2290, www.dpworld.ca or 250-753-4146 ext 229 www.deapsea.npa.ca for more information.

Nanaimo Port Authority’s Duke Point Expansion featuring the Liebherr 104 Metric Tonne Mobile Harbour Crane and new Barge Berth

NEW SHIPPING OPTIONS for VANCOUVER ISLAND

14 NANAIMO CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

into being recognized as the fourth largest tech centre in BC.” Building on technology takes various forms, including creati ng a supportive env i ronment for remote workers and te c h n olo g y t h at i nte rs e c t s with other local industries. “We have entrepreneur’s developing software to improve efficiencies in the aquaculture i ndustr y, i n hea lth ser v ices to create platforms for better rural access to healthcare, and in virtual reality game development,” said Paris Gaudet, executive director of Innovation Island Technology Association, a tech incubator for the central island region. “Many of the companies we are currently partnering with are working at creati ng new solutions to real world problems.” Recent statistics are showing positive growth. In the past 24 months its ventu re acceleration programs have created 57 new jobs generat i ng $1.4 million in revenue and attracting $2.4 million in private investments and $1.4 million in government grants and other investments. “Of the 44 companies we are working with, 43 per cent need to hire within 12-14 hours and 70 per cent need f u nd i ng to scale.”

NANAIMO She explained that funding for the tech industry is unique in that it doesn’t always come from traditional sources such as banks and other financial institutions. Rather it includes f r iend s a nd fa m i ly, g ra nts, a ngel i nvestors a nd ventu re capitalists looking for the next great investment. “We see the economic impact when a company hits an idea out of the ball park. It creates headlines, attracts attention a nd d raws ot hers to t he region, creating competition and building a tech ecosystem.” Surprisingly enough, Gaudet said that the age range for tech start-ups in Nanaimo ranges from the late 30’s to 50’s, many of whom h ave c om e to Nanaimo with a technical piece they are interested in building and then have chosen to stay. “It’s an unusual demographic, but one that gives us a competitive advantage by building a talent base with business and life experience.” Technology is making waves i n the city i n other a reas as wel l, esp eci a l ly at t he Por t Authority. In 2015 the Marine Domain Awareness (MDA) program went live, providing 24hour monitoring of ship traffic from Alaska to Oregon with an emphasis on the Salish Sea. “ T h o s e t h a t h a v e s t u died the MDA system are very SEE NANAIMO | PAGE 15

JULY 2016

“I want to see attention on Nanaimo for viable real estate options, not just for residential, but for businesses as well.” JOHN HANKINS CEO, NANAIMO ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION

Bernie Dumas CEO, Nanaimo Port Authority said that the Marine Domain Awareness program provides key information CREDIT:NPA

NANAIMO

JULY 2016

NANAIMO CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

Janice Stromar, president elect of the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board CREDIT:JANICE STROMAR

i mpressed w ith its capabi lities – especia l ly w ith the information provided by the d e d i c a te d w e a t h e r s t a t i o n at D u ke Poi nt,” sa id Bernie Dumas, CEO of the Nanaimo Port Authority. T hrough the integration of land and water based sensors and satellite feeds at specific times, data can be brought to t he N PA O perat ion s Cent re i n Na na i mo at the assembly wh a r f, to b e d i s pl aye d i n a layered format, providing full situational awareness. Weather data can be broadcasted to surrounding vessels for real time decision making a nd t he i ncrea sed respon se time supports NPA’s mandate for ensuring vessel safety and security, environmental protection and precise navigation. “ O n-go i n g a n d r e a l t i m e monitoring can reduce the response time for an incident and save time to engage the appropriate agencies for improved c o n t rol a n d fo r m i n i m i z e d pollution,” he added. “Due to the system’s comprehensive recall capability, the lessons learned from an incident are precise a nd accu rate, wh ich provides key information for improvements that contribute to incident prevention.” T he system i ncludes automatic electronic monitoring

24 hours a day and, at times, a dedicated person monitoring screens to augment the automated procedure. The whole project has the potential, as it grows, of bringing between six and 10 jobs to the city. Nanaimo’s real estate mark e t i s re f l e c t i n g t h e c i t y ’s i ncreased prof i le. It saw a n increase of 46 per cent in May 2016 over last year at the same t i me, a nd, accord i ng to t he Vancouver Island Real Estate B oa rd ( V I R E B) 2016 P re s ident-Elect, Janice Stromar, it isn’t just an older demographic discovering the city. “Although retirees frequently choose to migrate to Vancouver Island, we are seeing younger professionals trading in their homes on the Lower Mainland for a significantly nicer property here,” she said. According to a recent press release by the V I R EB, home sellers have the upper hand in the current market as buyers compete for available homes. “T his is a fantastic time to sel l, but some homeow ners have been hold i ng back because they love their home or a re worried they won’t fi nd a n o t h e r p r o p e r t y t o b u y,” sa id St rom a r. “More hou ses a re now com i ng onto t he market but buyers snap them up quickly; we still don’t have enough inventory to satisfy the demand.” T he repor t a lso noted that

15 tourism ‘posted a huge spike recently, which aids local economic conditions.’ It doesn’t hu rt that Ex ped ia a nd other web based travel sites a re headlining the city as one of the Top Ten to visit. In addition, the NEDC was awarded government funds to launch three significant campaigns to draw visitors up island to Nanaimo. A fresh perspective, a growi n g t e c h n o l o g y i n d u s t r y, affordable housing and an increased tourism profile have Nanaimo moving forward to become an active and cosmop ol it a n hu b for t he c ent ra l island.

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JULY 2016

LUXURY AND AFFORDABILITY WITH EASY LIVING LIFESTYLE

Using the natural topography of the slope capitalizes on stunning views CREDIT:KEITH MAZURENKO

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ADYSMITH - GNB Builders and Project Partner, The Gales recently took gold in Best Single Family Production home at the Vancouver Island Business Excellence Awards for the Gales development, a luxury development of patio homes and condominiums nestled on a slope a few minutes south of Ladysmith. It offers spectacular views, award winning energy efficiency, and country living minutes from major shopping and travel. Bu i lt by GNB Builders, the

HEIDI BIANCHINI INTERIOR DESIGNER, GNB BUILDERS

Located on a cul-de-sac, the development is surrounded by native trees and vegetation SEE THE GALES | PAGE 17

CREDIT:GNB BUILDERS

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An open and airy feel is the theme of each floor plan CREDIT:GNB BUILDERS

THE GALES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

Greg Bianchini, president of GNB Builders and Heidi Bianchini, business manager and designer CREDIT:GNB BUILDERS

development capita l i zes on sweepi ng 1 20 to 180 deg ree views of Coffin Point, Thetis and Valdes Islands and the North Shore mountains by utilizing the unique grade of the land. “We worked with the natural topography of the slope to capture the view for each property without blocking other homes’ views and maximizing privacy,” said Heidi Bianchini, GNB Builders’ interior designer. Located at the end of a private road, the homes are built on one side of the road, maintaining

Brian Senini

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SEE THE GALES | PAGE 18

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condos being added in future phases. Open and airy is the major concept flowing through the entire development with the interior of the homes continuing that theme. The kitchen and great room are framed by large windows, the kitchen boasts granite countertops and stainless appliances, and flooring is a combination of hickory engineered wood on the main level and CRI certified carpet on the bottom floor. “Finishing products are current with durability, environmental impact and features supporting

ANTON BRYSON

VINING SENINI

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an open feel. T here are wide boulevards, meandering walking paths and native vegetation that surrounds the whole project. “Each home gets plenty of sunlight with landscaping taking advantage of native plant species and micro drip irrigation system for low maintenance and environmental responsibility,” said Keith Mazurenko, Realtor. T he u n it s ra n ge f rom approximately 2700 sq ft to 3,093 sq ft and are walkouts with large, full or half-sized finished or unfinished basements, main level entry and views from both top and bottom f loors. There are several floor plan choices and

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Sweeping 120 and 180 degree views of North Shore mountains, Thetis Island and Coffin Point CREDIT:GNB BUILDERS

THE GALES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

maximum enjoyment and resale value,” said Bianchini, “The design took into consideration the needs of our aging population with the master bedroom, second bedroom and laundry room all on the level entry main floor and a large soaker tub and five-foot shower with bench in the master ensuite.” The Gales current showhome highlights the most unique features about the development it’s Platinum rating through Built Green Canada. It achieved an 83 Energuide rating with is energy efficient appliances, Enerchoice

Your total

fireplace, Carrier Infinitiy heat pump with heat recovery ventilator, water savings fixtures with Rheem lifetime hot water tank, insulated hot water lines with recirculation pump and low VOC paints. “We also installed premium, energy efficient vinyl windows that carry a lifetime warranty, low flow toilets and cement fiber factory finished siding that add to the low maintenance of the home,” said Bianchini. T h e B u i l t G re e n p ro g ra m evaluates each home based on its energy efficiency, indoor air quality, use of environmentally preferred materials, water conservation and ventilation.

flooring

As part of the assessment, Built Green also evaluates the builder’s business practices and waste management protocols and requires the hiring of an energy advisor to perform a blower test to rate the building’s envelope performance. “The last two showhomes were rated by Built Green Canada as Platinum, the highest rating available in this program,” she added. When complete, the project will have a total of 42 duplex or single family units and two condo buildings totalling 26 units. Prices range from $599,000 to $639,900. “ W h e n yo u c o n s i d e r t h a t

Nanaimo is only 20 minutes north and Duncan 15 minutes south, you are getting a lot of home for your money, especially when you compare it to prices in larger communities like Victoria or Vancouver,” said Mazurenko. He sa id t h at cu r rent ly t he people looking at and purchasing the homes in the development are a combination of empty nesters looking to simplify, retirees enjoying the small town charm, and semi-retirees working remotely as consultants. But he said it is also seeing people from back east looking for a second home where they can spend half of the year enjoying the coast’s many amenities, including the

weather. “We have people from Alberta living here and working out of their home offices,” he added. “The airport is only ten minutes away from Ladysmith and a flight to Calgary is one and a half hours.” He added t h at w it h one of the best marinas north of Victoria, the community sees a fair amount of people from Alberta and the interior anchoring boats in the Ladysmith harbour. “T hey can be on the water, enjoying their boat, within a couple of hours.” The town of Ladysmith is a SEE THE GALES | PAGE 19

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Keith Mazurenko said close proximity to marinas, airport, ferries and larger city centers draws people from across the country CREDIT:KEITH MAZURENKO

The entry of the Gales

THE GALES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

Greg and Heidi Bianchini receiving the VIBE Award 2016 – Best Production Home – The Gales

sig n i f ica nt d raw for people wanting to have more of a connection to their community and environment. With a population of under 10,000, it retains that small town charm with numerous community festivals and events and yet still has amenities like a full size recreation facility, shopping, fine dining, numerous sandy beaches, and great access to the back country. “Our climate allows for year rou nd boati ng a nd w ith the back country practically at your door it isn’t far for great hiking, quading or even canoeing on our numerous lakes.” GNB Builders is a homebuilder with over 30 years of experience in the building industry which specializes in Built Green homes and major renovations. In 2008, GNB Builders became a certified Built Green Builder designated through Built Green

Congratulations to GNB Builders on your new project The Gales!

Canada with all homes certified Built Green since then. In 2012, it was awarded the prestigious BC Built Green Builder of the Year by Department G of Built Green Canada. The developer, The Gales Joint Venture, owns the property and

has been involved with GNB Builders since 2005. In 2014 GNB took over The Gales Development as the builder for the project. Bianchini said that in the fall of 2016 the next phase of the project will begin and feature a revised floor plan that includes a dedicated mudroom/laundry room with a walk through pantry. Mazurenko said that the luxury and value in these homes can’t be beat, not only for the view but also for the homes’ size, quality products and workmanship and high end design, all wrapped up in a great community. The Gales is on Farrell Road in Ladysmith. www.thegales.ca

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AUTOMOTIVE Automotive Sector One Of Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Economic Bright Spots Canada Has Enjoyed A Long Love Affair With The Automobile BY DAVID HOLMES

he automobi le a nd the stor y of Ca n ad aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s development are virtually inseparable. According to the Canada Science and Technology Museum the nation, no doubt due to its expansive size, was an early recognizer of the value of self propelled transportation. In fact in 1867, the year of Canadaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Confederation, the first steps toward automotive dominance in the country took place in a humble way at the Stanstead Fair in Stanstead, Quebec. A mong the l ivestock, fa rm equipment and prized jars of ja m s a nd jel l ies Henry Seth Taylor, a l o c a l j e w e l e r a n d clock ma ker demonstrated a self-propelled steam powered cont r iva nce, appropr i ately named the Steam Buggy, for its obvious similarity to a horse drawn buggy. This pioneering machine had taken Taylor seven years to design and build. Shortly after, following a system failure and an unfortunate crash, Taylor abandoned his

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;The automotive sector in many ways drives the local economies, especially in the smaller centers,â&#x20AC;?

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SEE AUTOMOTIVE | PAGE 22

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AUTOMOTIVE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21

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dreams of self-propelled travel and Canada’s chance to make motoring history slipped into oblivion. But the wheels of time turned and nearly 20 years later Karl Benz in Germany demonstrated the first practical gas powered eng i ne, mou nted i n a cr ude motorcycle which ultimately sparked a revolution in transportation. Canada’s first truly practical automobile, an electric powered machine, first hit the streets of Toronto in 1893. Co-designed by William Still and Frederick Featherstonehaugh, the elega nt two seat m a ch i ne wa s a ssem ble d by the Dixon Carriage Works and could hit a then jaw dropping 25 kilometers per hour. Three years later in 1896 Sherbooke, Quebec’s George Foote Foss (a mechanic and tradesman) built the first successful and marketable gasoline powered automobile in Canada. The nation would never be the same again. T he Canadian Vehicle M a nu factu rers A sso ciat ion (CVMA) reports that currently one in seven Canadians is involved in the automotive sector in some capacity. From a new car dealership marketing the latest products, to the oil change depots helping to keep cars old and new on the road, the overall automotive sector is responsible for more than 550,000 jobs across the country. T he manufacturing of cars and trucks, in 11 light duty and three heavy duty manufacturing plants is responsible for 12 per cent of Canada’s manufacturing Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and for more than 20 per cent of Ontario’s total GDP. In British Columbia the sale of new cars generates more than $11 billion in economic activity each year and directly employs more than 36,000 people who work in the province’s 370 plus

new car dealerships in nearly 55 communities across BC. Blair Qualey is the President a nd Ch ief Executive Officer (CEO) of the New Car Dealers A sso ci at ion of B C ( NC DA ), a trade association with approx i mately 37 2 new ca r dea lersh ip members a rou nd the province. For him his association’s members are key economic drivers in the communities they service. “T he last econom ic i mpact study that we did, which was carried out by MNP, showed that our membership generated more than $11 billion in economic activity every year, while being significant local employers and corporate taxpayers,” he said. “Latest figures show that new car dealerships alone contribute something like two per cent of the provincial GDP and that’s only the new car dealers. What sets our members apart from other members of the sector is that our folk are all franchised new car dealers.” For Qualey new car dealers in BC have continued to be major economic success stories, despite of any uncertainties in the general provincial economy. “T he econom ic stor y of the dealers in our industry over the last number of years has been a very rosy one and a strong one.” Coming to the industry eight years ago following a successful career in business administration, Qualey said he has seen positive growth in the industry, buoyancy that bodes well for the future. “We have come off a couple of re c ord ye a rs i n ter m s of vehicle sales across the country and particularly across this province. In April alone there were 200,000 vehicles sold in one month across this country which is an all time record,” he said. In terms of an economic impact t he automot ive se ctor SEE AUTOMOTIVE | PAGE 23

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Tradesman George Foote Foss demonstrated a functional gasoline powered automobile in 1896

AUTOMOTIVE

JULY 2016

Across Canada more than 550,000 people are directly employed in some part of the automotive sector

AUTOMOTIVE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

often serves as a weather gauge for the overall fiscal health of any region. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our folks tend to be a bit of a canary in the coal mine. People in the real estate sector often come running up to me when they see me at an event to find out how vehicle sales are, because basically if weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re seei ng issues those problems quickly translate through to the rest of the economy.â&#x20AC;? So how does the future look today? If new car sales are an accurate indicator of the confidence of the buying public then the future looks bright indeed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Based on what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen in the first quarter of this year weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re likely to have yet another record year, beating last

yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s record which beat the year before,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Taken as a whole the automotive industry is massive, nationally and provincially, and frankly one that sometimes can be underappreciated. In BC we focus on tourism, mining, forestry, technology and other things that may be a little more high profile. But in reality the automotive sector in many ways drives the local economies, especially in the smaller centers,â&#x20AC;? Qualey said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;T hey are big employers, huge ta x payers and are invariably good corporate citizens. I doubt if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find a hockey rink or arena anywhere that doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a new car dealerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s logo in it somewhere.â&#x20AC;? To learn more please visit the associationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website at: www.newcardealers.ca

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LOCAL AUTO DEALERSHIP HAS GROWN & EVOLVED WITH THE REGION

Sue Finneron received the President’s Award of Merit from Don Romano, President of Hyundai Canada

Finneron Hyundai was Canada’s number one Hyundai dealer In 2015

Finneron Hyundai has been in operation since 2009 and is now preparing a major expansion

OURTENAY – When Finneron Hyundai says it’s Number One, it’s not marketing hype, it’s a fact and it has the award to prove it. “Last year we were recognized as the Number One Hyundai Dealership in Canada,” explained dealership General Manager Sue Finneron. Finneron Hyundai opened for business in 2009, so winning the company’s top honor in only six years is a major achievement. “Within six years we climbed to the top of Hyundai. There are about 220 Hyundai dealerships in Canada and as far as I know this is the first time a Vancouver Island dealership has ever won, much less one in a community as small as Courtenay,” she said. The long drive to the top for Finneron and her staff literally took decades, and involved twists and turns along the way. But for her the recognition is just another milestone that she and her family have achieved since they first moved to the Comox Valley more than 30 years ago. “I guess you really could say I grew up in the car business,” she said.

Another member of the exclusive 35 year employee club is Kevin Brown, one of many long term employees “ My D a d ( M i ke Fi n neron) moved the family to Courtenay in September 1979 to open a General Motors (GM) car dealership (Mike Finneron Pontiac Buick GMC), so from the time I was 10 years old I knew that working with cars is what I wanted to do.” Finneron operated the Pontiac dealership for more than 30 years before an economic downturn and a changing corporate climate threatened to put the brakes on the family’s involvement with the automotive industry. “After

A full service car dealership Finneron Hyundai’s service department is one of Canada’s best the GM bankruptcy in 2009, almost 30 years to the day we s w itc he d to Hy u nd a i ,” s he remembers. “What happened was that the US Government made General Motors drop Pontiac, so anyone that was a Pontiac Buick dealership pretty well across the board learned that their contract with the company would not be renewed. The decision was due to

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the overall GM bankruptcy, not because we were a poor dealer or anything like that.” Hitting such a sudden and unexpected corporate brick wall could have spelled the end of Finneron’s auto sales prospects, but not being someone to shy away from a challenge, and concerned for the safety and survival of his employees, he immediately shifted gears and made the

move to the Hyundai product line. Sue Finneron literally grew up around the car dealership, starting out washing vehicles on the lot. She has been working full time for the business for more than 24 years (16 as General Manager). “Our timing with switching to Hyundai couldn’t have come SEE FINNERON HYUNDAI | PAGE 25

Congratulations to Finneron Hyundai on your Milestone 250 338 7777 www.speedyglass.ca Cliffe Ave Courtney

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Just a few of the dealership’s staff took time out to celebrate winning the President’s Award of Merit

Long time employee Cathy Ruthven has worked with the dealership for the past 35 years The dealership has acres of room to park and showcase its line of quality Hyundai vehicles

The Finneron family has been part of the Comox Valley auto sales business since 1979

FINNERON HYUNDAI CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24

at a better time. The product they offer is amazing and the management of the company is

exceptional,” she said. “T he awa rd we received is especially significant for us as it is based on several different criteria, including customer satisfaction, market share and

percentage of target reached, accessory sales and others. The company recognizes the top 15 dealers across the country. In the previous year we were in that top 15. But never in a million years

did I expect to be Number One.” Not merely being the first Island dealership to win the top spot, Finneron Hyundai is also the first female-managed dealership to be recognized as the nation’s best, a point Finneron is happy to relate. “The real reason we won all comes down to in the end, is the extraordinary staff that we have,” she said. “Mike and I consider the Team here at Finneron Hyundai a second family.” “The longevity of our employees is a real factor. Two of our team, Cathy Ruthven and Kevin Brown have been with us for 35 years, while more than 50 per cent have been with us 10 years or more.” Finneron Hyundai, with its staff of 30 is located at 250 Old Island Highway in Courtenay. The present site has been home to a car dealership for decades,

at one time serving as a Honda and later as a Volkswagen dealership before making the switch to Hyundai. “For us Hyundai has been a very positive change. It’s a great company to work with, we’re thrilled with the product, thrilled with the company and we’re not just a number to them,” she said. “At one point Mike and I actually talked about the possibility of closing the store when we learned about not renewing our dealer agreement. We thought about it, but then he said ‘you can’t unscramble eggs and our staff have supported us so we need to keep the jobs for them’ that’s when we decided to make the move to Hyundai,” Finneron explained. “One day we were G enera l Motors, we had 11 cars left and I found a home for them. We then had six car carriers come in with 60 Hyundai vehicles and we became Hyundai and we’ve never looked back,” she said. “The Comox Valley is growing as is the Hyundai brand, so we are building a new dealership building on the adjoining property. We have customers who have been coming here for decades, we always appreciate their support and we are constantly looking for ways to improve their experience with our company. “ To learn more please visit the company’s website at www.finneronhyundai.com

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GUY GARAGES A GAME CHANGER FOR DOWNSIZING BABY BOOMERS â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lots of people are Parksville development offers unique storage solutions for car, boat and RV owners

looking for hobby spaces, and this is a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;mancaveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; where they can go. I truly believe this will change

ARKSVILLE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Some might call it the â&#x20AC;&#x153;ultimate man-caveâ&#x20AC;?. Ron Chiovetti calls it a â&#x20AC;&#x153;game c h a n g e r â&#x20AC;?, s e e i n g t h e n e w GuyGarages complex as the ultimate storage solution for car, boat and recreational vehicle owners who have downsized their main residences and need a place for their special â&#x20AC;&#x153;toysâ&#x20AC;?. Guy Garages features a total of 41 strata units in seven buildings, in the Fairdowne Business Centre at 1240 Valley Road in Parksville. Phase one of three phases is already built, and the unit sizes vary from 1,000 to 8,000 square feet. They have 25-foot wide bays with 20 foot ceilings, 14 x 14 foot insulated garage doors and metal walk-through doors. This makes the units ideally suited for full sized recreational units, boats and collector vehicles â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;toysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; that need to be stored, particularly if owners have decided to live in smaller living quarters.

the thinking of baby boomers.â&#x20AC;? RON CHIOVETTI GUY GARAGES

SEE GUY GARAGES | PAGE 27

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Ron Chiovetti, left, and Tom Harris inside one of the Guy Garages units, which shows some of the capabilities for storing cars and boats

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Security is a priority at the gated Guy Garages, which also features 24-hour video surveillance. Owners have 24-hour access to their units

GUY GARAGES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26

Larger units at Guy Garages are big enough for the largest, fullsized recreational vehicles

A l l u n its a re out f itted for security, telephone and cable, and owners have unlimited, 24 hour, 7 day a week access to their units. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life altering,â&#x20AC;? says Chiovetti, one of four partners in Guy Garages. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s allowing couples to sell their 4,000 square foot home and move to a maintenance-free condo so they can travel, and they still can have a place where they can go and hang out with the four cars.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lots of people are looking for hobby spaces, and this is a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;man-caveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; where they can go,â&#x20AC;? he adds. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I truly believe this will change the thinking of baby boomers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfect for people who are coming from the lower mainland after selling their homes, but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to buy acreage.â&#x20AC;? While a strata ownership storage facility of this size is new

for Vancouver Island, there are a number of similar projects across the United States. Calgary has several. One of the partners in the venture, Moray Keith, owns a similar storage unit in Arizona. Jim Bond is also a partner, as is Tom

Harris, whose initial discussions with Chiovetti spawned the idea for the development. Harris was looking for a place to store some collector cars. One thing led to another, and a site, next to Chiovettiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Isle Golf Cars in the Fairdowne Business Centre Ltd., seemed perfect for the idea. A ll of the partners have enjoyed success in their other businesses. Chiovetti purchased Isle Golf Cars several years ago, after a lengthy career in the oil and gas business based in Calgary. T he bu si ness sel l s new a nd used golf carts, and rents them to golf clubs up and down Vancouver Island, particularly for tournaments. Chiovetti estimates there are 3,000 golf carts on Vancouver Island alone, as residents living in golf communities like Arbutus Ridge and Eaglecrest, for example, use them as regular transportation to scoot around the neighborhood. Ha rris is President of Tom Harris Cellular and the Harris Auto Group, which includes four dealerships selling Kia, Mazda, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Chevrolet, GMC and Buick vehicles with stores in Parksville, Nanaimo and Victoria. Tom Harris Cellular features 50 stores and is the largest Telus Authorized Dealer in Canada. Keith knows first-hand how SEE GUY GARAGES | PAGE 28

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Units at Guy Garages are expected to become home to collector vehicles

GUY GARAGES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27

This Guy Garages unit is home to a BMW, boat and fifth wheel, as well as an entertainment centre complete with pool table in the mezzanine

popular the Guy Garages concept will be, through his own ownership experience in the U.S. He is president of the Dueck Auto Group, which includes three General Motors dealerships in the lower mainland. Dueck on Marine is one of the largest GM outlets in Western Canada. A hockey ent hu si a st, Keith is president of the Chiefs

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Development Group, which built the Prospera Place multiplex in Chilliwack, and Langley Events Centre in Langley, which will be home to the Western Hockey Leagueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vancouver Giants starting this fall. He is also coowner of the B.C. Hockey League Chilliwack Chiefs. Bond owns Ventana Construction, an award-winning Burnaby-based general contractor and construction manager based in Burnaby that builds projects throughout the lower mainland. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We felt this was the ideal locationâ&#x20AC;Ś it services all the main highways north, as well as south and west,â&#x20AC;? says Chiovetti. â&#x20AC;&#x153;What makes this unique is people can customize their units to suit their individual needs. T hey ca n have a mezza n i ne space, they can put a car hoist in, they can have a games room, they can have their own personal space and design it any way they want, and we can build it for them. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is the only facility in North America that has a drivethrough bay, so if buyers have a fifth-wheel unit, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re able to drive it right through the other side.â&#x20AC;?

Each unit is fully equipped w ith a two-piece bathroom, work sink and counter, side wall and overhead lighting, an HRV system for air circulation, radiant tube natural gas heating, 24/7 video surveillance, up to 200 amps of electrical service, and 24 hour access. It also includes a 25 x 50 foot car wash station with lifts on both sides, enabling owners to reach the top of their RV. It also includes an automotive f luid dump station to dispose of used vehicle f luids in an environmentally friendly manner, with oil/water separators, as well as an RV sani-dump station. Some of the units are ideal for lounges that include pool tables. There is currently a membersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lou n ge, wh ich m ay b ecome permanent if thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what the eventual owners of the rest of the units decide to keep it. Chiovetti notes that Guy Garages is different than typical storage facilities. Chiovetti adds that Guy Garages meets the state-of-theart environmental rules and requirements of the Regional SEE GUY GARAGES | PAGE 29

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GUY GARAGES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 28

District of Nanaimo – which has the same environmental standards of the city of Vancouver, for example. The site retains all of its own water. GuyGarages.ca utilized tilt-up concrete wall construction in building the facility, using huge cranes to lift up the engineered 40,000 pound steel reinforced concrete wa l l pa nels, wh ich were poured on-site. “Our vision is that we have 40 owners that share a common interest,” says Chiovetti. “They have an opportunity to have their own sports lounge and get together with friends, family, people with collector cars and boats, and our vision is to not only finish this complex, but to build another one.” Chiovetti points out that the

ability to purchase the units outright – as opposed to leasing – is an attractive opportunity for individuals who view ownership as an investment in their future – and their families. “People can share these units as well. . .they can buy them as an investment, and event rent them out themselves if they want,” he adds. “Here i n the M id Isla nd, people are looking to downsize, and move to a maintenance free lifestyle, but they don’t want to give up their garage space,” says Chiovetti. “It gives them the ability to have a maintenance free extension to their home. This active-use storage facility not only gives people a place to store their vehicles, but also to come and work on them.” “It is truly an opportunity for people to downsize their homes where they have three or four

vehicles that they can’t find space for any longer,” he says. “It’s not their living space – it’s their hobby space.” If people downsize and choose to l ive i n condos or ret i rement-friendly complexes like Craig Bay, for example, there is typically no room on-site for RV’s or extra vehicles. Some proje c t s don’t a l low t h em , period. T hat’s where Chiovetti believes Guy Garages fills that need. It’s a new concept for Va n c o u v e r I s l a n d , b u t t h e owners are excited about the i nterest bei ng show n i n the project. “O ne couple c a me here to take a look, and the wife burst into tears, as she realized what this meant for them,” he notes. “They could sell their home and travel like they’ve wanted to do for years, and this represents

freedom to them. He can store his toys here, and they can travel wherever they want, which is what she wants to do.”

Guy Garages is at 1240 Valley Road, off Fairdowne Road, in Parksville. www.guygarages.ca

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30 ROYAL LEPAGE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

of working together to produce at a really high level. The agents have confidence in the supporting staff, and that enables them to go out into the community and provide the high level of service that we’re known for. “We’ve worked really hard to develop a cohesive working environment here. There’s a lot of collaboration between the different levels of the organization, and that’s allowed us to achieve the success we’ve seen so far. A significant contributor to that has also been the fact that the Oceanside area is a highly desirable retirement destination for people across the country. We couldn’t be happier about these awards, and are excited about what the future has in store.” On top of the office’s national recognition, five of its realtors have been named to the Royal LePage Chairman’s Club, from only six total on Vancouver Island. These realtors are in the top 1 per cent of producers across Canada. Miller attributes these achievements to his unique approach to management, and the relentless work ethic of his agents. He purchased the brokerage from Dave Ney in 2010, and has continued operating as a realtor while managing the office. It has grown significantly since he took over. Following the acquisition of Coast Realty last year, it now boasts an incredible 65 per cent of all real estate transactions for Zone 5, which covers from Nanoose to Deep Bay. “I’ve been really fortunate along my journey in this industry,” says Miller. “When I started as a realtor in 2003 I put everything I had into my job. The effort and determination that I put into the beginning of my career enabled me to push through the

JULY 2016

significant challenges presented by the 2008 financial crisis and beyond. “Obstacles like that force you to develop a competitive edge, to step up the level of service you provide, and rise above the heightened standards and expectations set by your customers. The skills and character that were developed as a result of those difficult times have contributed greatly to the success this company has seen.” His reputation for delivering results, both in transactions and in extraordinary customer service, has enabled him to rely almost exclusively on referrals for the majority of his own deals as a realtor. Something that has allowed him to build strong relationships with the brokers he currently manages, as they know they never have to worry about competing for listings and sales. “Working as an owner and broker at the same time has given our office some interesting advantages,” says Miller. “Being on the frontlines myself, I’m learning about the different technologies and trends in the industry as they develop. We’ve been able to implement many of these tactics and processes very quickly, which has helped us to consistently deliver the best possible service to our customers.” The results produced by the Royal LePage office have enabled it to give back a great deal to the community. Last year it was recognized as a leading contributor to the Shelter Foundation, Canada’s largest real estate NPO. The organization invests in local housing opportunities for women and children who are escaping violent homes. The brokerage is also in the process of transitioning to a new 6,000-square-foot location at the end of this year. Details will be announced at a later date. www.parksvillerealestate.com

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From left: Adam Speigel, Senior Manager at BDC who will be responsible for the Courtenay office, BDC Account Manager Joey Smith and Blake Simpson of RBC Dominion Securities PHOTO BY JOHANN VAN RENSBURG

OURTENAY – The Business Development Bank of Canada has opened a new bra nch on Va ncouver Island, at 951 Fitzgerald Avenue in Courtenay. The new centre will serve the Comox Valley, Campbell River and North Island region with financing and advisory services, including working capital, real estate and equipment purchases. “Entrepreneurship and small business plays an important role in Courtenay’s economy,” notes Johann Van Rensburg, Manager, Business Centre for BDC in

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COMOX VALLEY

JULY 2016

THIRD ANNUAL GREAT VALLEY RALLY AND GOVERNANCE REVIEW

COMOX VALLEY DIANNE HAWKINS

u r r e n t l y, t h e C o m ox Valley Chamber is continuing its effort to init iate a G over n a nce Rev iew for the Comox Valley area. T he review is for the sole benefit of the Comox Valley, and its’ residents. I n the case of the Comox Valley, the governance review would consist of examining items such as: defining

governance roles, determining if the current governance i s a d d i n g va lu e or cre at i n g barriers; outlining if current processe s a ssi st i n ach ievi n g c om mu n it y goa l s, lo ok at regional issues (air, water, development planning, waste management) and review tax spending to ensure tax dollars are being used efficiently. The review would provide a non-biased study of the Comox Valley’s current governa n c e m o d e l a n d d e te r m i n e what needs to be done, if anything, to make this a better, m o re e f f i c i e n t c o m m u n i t y than it already is. A n on line petition is being launched and will be ready to accept signat u res i n t he com i ng week s. Comox Valley citizens in support of learning the facts and

having a study done can sign the petition at www.cvgovreview.ca. ■■■ The Chamber of Commerce i s ready, set, a nd go for t he 3rd annual Great Valley Rally on July 23. This adventurous event h a s a d i f ferent fo c u s than the usual business network i ng events or bu si ness development workshops. It brings the three communities together in support of a valley-wide community-building initiative. T h e G re a t Va l l e y R a l l y i s mo del led a f ter “t he A m a zi ng R ace” w it h tea ms reading maps, facing challenges, check points, business stops a n d m o re a s t h e y n a v i g a te t h e i r w a y t h ro u g h t h e C omox Valley. The race will end

with an afternoon of fun with music, a BBQ for participants, and awards ceremony at this year’s recipient Filberg Heritage L odge a nd Pa rk A ssociat ion. Each yea r, t h is event benefits a different project in the Comox Va l ley i nclud i ng the Cumberland Forest and the downtown Courtenay mural project. To read more v isit: www.greatvalleyrally.com ■■■ The Chamber wishes to ack nowledge t hese long-ter m members: Best Western Plus – The Westerly Hotel is celebrating 32 years as Chamber member! Sunwest Auto Centre is a 29-year strong Chamber member. Congratulations to these long-standing businesses in the Comox Valley. ■■■

The Chamber welcomes these businesses as new Chamber members: Best Buy, Pen i n su la Co-op a nd T ravelodge Courtenay. ■■■ T he Comox Va l ley Ch a mber of Commerce works hard to actively streng then loca l bu si nesses t h roug h advocacy efforts and networking events T he Ch a mber v i sion i s : C o m m u n i t y a n d b u s iness leadersh ip th rough excellence, innovation, and sustainability. Dianne Hawkins is president and CEO of the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce. Reach her at dhawkins@comoxvalleychamber. com or 250-334-3234. www.comoxvalleychamber.com

JOHN HART GENERATING STATION PROJECT COMMUNITY EVENT The dam is expected to be completed in 2018/2019 at a cost of $1.093 billion

BUILDING LINKS CLARICE COTY

he construction of the John Hart Replacement Project began in spring 2014 and it is well underway. It is being built to improve seismic performance, improve reliability, and to protect downstream fish habitat. In February 2016, about 245 people were working on the construction site with the majority being local. The dam is expected to be completed in 2018/2019 at a cost of $1.093 billion. The powerhouse cavern has b een bu i lt, a nd look s qu ite

Construction photo – Downstream of John Hart Dam. This shows the initial work to excavate the upper part of the vertical power tunnel shaft. The shaft will join up with the 1.5 km horizontallyoriented underground power tunnel that is being excavated towards the water intake from the powerhouse area PHOTO CREDIT: BC HYDRO NEWLETTER

spectacular, with windows and a walkway on the upper level of the cavern, with a staircase that zigzags eight times before it reaches the floor. A big milestone in May was the main access tunnel officially moving past the loose rock feature. Full rock blasting has resumed. The main access is so large, that heavy equipment can easily drive through tunnel. The second annual community site event is being held on Sunday, July 17, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. BC Hydro and InPower

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BC, the project contractor, are pleased to invite the public to the second annual John Hart Generating Station Replacement Project community event – a unique annual opportunity to see the construction site. Scheduled activities include a tour at the construction site, displays and activities at the interpretive centre area including the Museum at Campbell River, a puppet show and crafts, barbecue provided by the Kinsmen club, community booth displays and bucket rides in a BC Hydro line truck. Plus, the John Hart Project Interpretive Centre will be open to provide more project info. The only permitted way to get to the site is by the free passenger bus service. Passengers will be picked up on Shoppers Row, directly in front of Spirit Square. Buses will run approximately every 10 minutes beginning at 9:30 a.m. until about 2:30 p.m. A continuous loop will run from Shoppers Row to the two construction site locations (at the underground portals and John Hart dam) to the interpretive centre area, and then back downtown. The project team will have a tour guide on each bus. Construction activity will be shut down for this event so people can walk around the defined areas (there will be no access into the underground tunnels), and see the unique construction equipment on display. Come and see the exciting work on this legacy project for Campbell River and BC Hydro! If you have any questions in advance of the event please contact Stephen Watson at steve.watson@bchydro.com or 250 755 4795. Clarice Coty can be reached at clarice@buildinglinks.ca, and through www.buildinglinks.ca

JULY 2016

COMOX COMPANY ADDS TO THE PLEASURE OF HOLIDAY TRAVEL

B.C. Shellfish & Seafood Festival continues to grow in popularity

Sit back and enjoy the view – let someone else do the driving

OMOX VALLEY - Sometimes the most disconcerting part of arriving at a favoured destination is getting there. It’s good news, then, for traveler’s from across Vancouver Island and beyond our borders to know that Comox Coach & Shuttle can help with the answer to that dilemma. “We have three coaches, a mini coach and four fifteen passenger vans that we use to pick up clients, take them to their destination and then pick them up when they’re ready to return” owner, Dave Smith, told Business Examiner Vancouver Island. Located in the lush Comox Valley, Smith says his company has transported tour groups to sites all over the Island, to Seattle, San Francisco, Kelowna as well as numerous trips to Vancouver and Victoria. Not only are the destination points varied, their many clients hail from Switzerland, Germany, China, Japan, New York and across Canada. “We also regularly take folks to Murphy’s Sportfishing in Fair Harbour, local Evergreen Seniors group to the Tulalip Casino in Washington and the Gaglardi Christian Academy for their extra curricular activities. Two biggest summer time destinations are the Moutcha Bay Resort, part of the Nootka Marina Adventure group, and Strathcona Park Lodge. Clients heading for Moutcha Bay come from all over North America, including groups that are picked up in Seattle; Strathcona Park lodge clients come from around the world, with a group coming this month from Germany. “Our business is doing well and

Tony, Glen and Dave, ready to take you to your destination we have good business relationships with other transportation companies down Island. They like the service we provide and the work we do.” Formerly the owner of six incorporated companies including service businesses, a restaurant, a coin-operated dog wash and Comox Taxi. Smith realized that he wanted to spend less time working and more time with his wife Diane. “I’ve been married to Diane, for twenty six years and we have two sons, Tyler and Alex. I spent fifteen years in the military and receive a medical pension as a result of my service in the Middle East. I ran for city council and may again, but that is up to Diane.” While some folks may think that reducing what was a former payroll roster of over 70 employees to just three is a step backwards, Smith says most business owners can’t wait to execute an exit strategy. That said, he’s not ready to retire. Smith recently co-purchased a property on Braidwood and is now working with city staff to gain Ryan Road access. Once access is approved he has a major hotel chain and a fried chicken franchise interested in the

development project. When asked to share what he considers the secret to his success, Smith’s response was quick and to the point: Work 18 hours a day. “It’s not a secret and there’s no hidden formula. It’s just hard work; you can’t call 18 hours a day ‘lucky’. It’s also about being honest, straight forward and building relationships with people who understand that everybody involved in a project needs to make money; if they don’t, the project doesn’t work. You don’t have to make a lot, you just have to make it consistently.” Giving back to the community has always been a top priority. Smith has volunteered for countless charity and fundraisers, including Relay for Life, Tour de Rock, Nautical days, Music Fest, the Salvation Army. He now sits on the board of directors for Dawn to Dawn (D2D). Recently this action group, dedicated to ending homelessness in the Comox Valley, partnered with the Transition Society, organizing the “Coldest night of the Tear”, raising over $60,000. Fo r m o r e i n fo r m a t i o n o n transportation options go to www.comoxcoach.ca or phone 250-898-8533.

Congratulations Comox Coach & Shuttle from all of us at Presley & Partners 951 FITZGERALD AVENUE, COURTENAY (250) 338-1394 | 1-877-338-1394 | presleyandpartners.com

The June 10 Freshfest Dinner at the Old House Hotel & Spa was a resounding success, as hundreds of visitors tasted the farmraised seafood creations prepared by award winning BC chefs, including Locals’ Ronald St. Pierre. BY MARK MACDONALD BUSINESS EXAMINER VANCOUVER ISLAND

OMOX VALLEY – More exhibitors and a lot more visitors. T hat’s the result of the 10 th anniversary of the BC Shellfish & Seafood Festival held June 9-19 in the Comox Valley. The week-long expo and festival featured feasts, a trade show, symposium on the industry as a whole, and keynote speakers addressing a number of important industry-specific topics. Bruce Dirom, President and CEO of Hardy Buoys Smoked Fish in Port Hardy was one of the panelists in an Advancing the Seafood Processing Sector session that focused on leading edge technology and product innovation that is helping the aquaculture industry remain cost ef fect ive i n t he g loba l marketplace. While some might argue that such advancements lead to less jobs, industry officials believe it keeps companies profitable a nd competitive, ensu ri ng their long-term stability. It’s one of the best ways that North American firms can compete with similar operations in Asia which pay a fraction of Canadian labour costs. Not to mention the fact that the industry struggles at times to a t t r a c t n e w e m p l o y e e s , even though the jobs are well paying. Larry Couch of Marel US showed a video that featured a 1 2-foot long f i l let i ng m ach i ne t h at cou ld process 25 fish per minute. A de-boning unit uses x-ray technology to identify pin bones in the fish filet, which utilizes streams of water from a waterjet to debone the fish. B en Stewa r t, BC’s Sp eci a l Representative in Asia, moderated a presentation on the T ra ns Paci f ic Pa r tnersh ip

(T PP) t h at i ncluded T revor Paul from the provincial gover n m ent, a nd Eva Ya zon of the BC Trade and Investment Representative Office in the Philippines. The federal Liberal government has yet to ratify the TPP, which was negotiated under t h e p re v i o u s C o n s e r v a t i v e mandate. Participating in TPP negotiations were Canada, the United States, Brunei, Chile, New Zealand, Singapore, Australia, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru and Vietnam. If Canada does officially sign on, it gives this country unprecedented access to other member cou nt r ies, w it hout t he prev iou s a d d e d b u rd en of excessive tariffs that give adva ntages to home-g row n industries and products. With TPP participation, BC ex por ts a re ex pected to i ncrease by $492 million – 65 per cent of which are goods, and 35 per cent services. For example Japan, the third largest economy in the world, and second largest seafood importer, has restrictive import taxes on Canadian aquaculture products that make them cost noncompetitive. Under TPP, 66 per cent of Japanese tariffs on seafood – which range from 3.5 per cent on atlantic salmon to 6 per cent on hake - would be eliminated immediately. A n emerg i ng m a rket l i ke V ie t n a m , wh ich h a s g row n by 2,000 per cent since 2011, could prove to be a tremendous market for Canadian seafood, sans tariffs. “BC busi nesses a re wel l a head a nd ready to ta ke advantage of the TPP,” says Paul. Stewart pointed out that in the one year since the South K o r e a- C a n a d a F r e e T r a d e Agreement was implmented, C a n a d i a n s e a fo o d e x p o r t s have i ncreased a whoppi ng 74 per cent.

JULY 2016

A VANCOUVER ISLAND SUCCESS STORY “In the future we will Apple Electric celebrates nearly 30 years of growth

be concentrating on waste water treatment and natural gas fuelling.

AMPBELL RIVER - When Stephen Kuehnel launched Apple Electric in 1989 he started out with meager equipment, to say the least. “We began small; starting out with basically a pickup truck, a 6’ ladder and a drill. We’d provide free estimates to every builder we could,” he told Business Examiner Vancouver Island. Since that inauspicious beginning nearly 30 years ago, Apple Electric has become a force to be reckoned with in the local, provincial and even national world of Electrical, Electronic and Communications services. Based locally in Campbell River with a dedicated management team and office staff of 10 and currently employing approximately 80 Journeyman Electricians and

Of special significance to Sunshine Coast dwellers was the recently completed work on the Tla’amin First Nation’s new Government House.” STEPHEN KUEHNEL FOUNDER AND PRESIDENT, APPLE ELECTRIC

Wall wash-down lighting at new Moricetown Health Centre in Smithers, BC

Founder and President, Stephen Kuehnel Apprentices they now do contract work far beyond the shores of Vancouver Island. “We cover British Columbia, the Yukon, and the North West Territories. We specialize in remote location projects” Kuehnel explained. A single solution electrical contracting company, Apple Electric provides a wide range of electrical services for Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional customers (ICI) Included in the range of contracting services offered by the company are New Construction, Additions, Renovations, Maintenance and Design Builds. Apple Electric focuses primarily on the ICI end of the business since they purchased the franchise Mr. Electric in 2009 which cares for the majority of residential work from Nanaimo all the way to the North end of Vancouver Island. Kuehnel noted that one of Apple Electric’s main focuses is providing services to First Nations; their schools, health centers, and community centers. Of note is the Campbell River Indian Band Office, the Maaqtusiis Senior Secondary School for the Ahousaht First Nation, on the remote West Coast of Vancouver Island. Klahoose First Nation New Relationship Centre on Cortez Island; which received the 2011 VRCA Silver Award of Excellence, and the recently completed Tla’amin First Nation’s new Governance House on the Sunshine Coast. T h e y a l s o h ave e x te n s ive

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Cable tray installation at Hamilton Transit Station CNG Compound in Richmond experience in the marine industry working with BC Ferries, Department of Fisheries and Small Craft Harbours. To mention only a couple of projects done for BC Ferries; the Westview Berth rebuild in Powell River and Little River terminal in Comox where they installed ship to shore power, the waiting rooms, and area lighting. Also the berth re-build on Denman Island and East Hornby Island with new electrical distribution systems at each terminal in self-contained sea containers with cable tray and cabling for ship to shore power. Currently, they are working on several DFO projects including Steveston Harbour in Richmond where they are retrofitting all the TRC and RC kiosks, along with renovation of existing buildings. Also on the go is the Heriot Bay Wharf Reconstruction on Quadra Island. Apple Electric is also concentrating on another of its specialties - Waste Water Plants and Natural Gas Fueling Stations. Natural gas fueling involves the transition of transit buses to more environmentally friendly natural

gas. “We go around to communities where the buses all run on diesel but they want clean energy. We’ve done these types of conversions in Nanaimo, Kamloops, Mississauga, Medicine Hat, and we’re currently working on installing compressed natural gas infrastructure at the TransLink Ha m i lton T ra nsit Centre i n Richmond.” Another notable area of expertise for Apple Electric is Infection Control services for hospitals and health facilities. “Basically in order to work in a hospital you have to set up mobile booth(s), move them to where you’re going to be working, seal off the area, suit up, ensure the air scrubbers are on, then seal yourselves in and get to work. After the work is complete you do it all again in reverse.” We’ve done this many, many times; a few examples are the Campbell River General Hospital Negative Air Rooms was one such project, also, Nurses Residence and Hospital Pharmacy Upgrade in Campbell River, the Powell River General Hospital Kitchen renovation and the Mills Memorial Hospital Electrical Services Upgrade in Terrace. A number of our key employees have special certification that is necessary for this through the Canadian Construction Association.” When asked to describe what he believes is the reason for the past and continuous growth and prosperity of the company he attributes it to three primary reasons; risk-taking, his philosophical approach to management and maintaining a core group of well-trained and trusted employees. “For someone in my position you have to accept an enormous SEE APPLE ELECTRIC | PAGE 35

JULY 2016

Klahoose First Nation

Boardwalk lighting in Alert Bay

Team work, on the job

APPLE ELECTRIC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 34

amount of risk; the further you want to go, the more risk you

have to take. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re constantly assuming a lot of risk in a business of this size and scope. Being able to rely on your Project Managers, Administrative Team,

Foreman, Journeymen and Apprentices to do the job correctly and effectively is huge. If something was to ever go wrong on the job site it comes back to you. Proper training and safe work practices are huge.â&#x20AC;? Since the beginning, the company has been very active in the training of Apprentices. Just this past year the Industry Training Authority presented Apple Electric with a Certificate of Recognition for their commitment to training apprentices and investing in BCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skilled labour workforce. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re an open shop company, non-union, in fact, the largest

open shop electrical company on Northern Vancouver Island. Essentially what this means is we pay our top electricians higher than union rates; however, our first-year electricianâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rate is about 18per cent less than standard union rates. The reasoning for this is that the set union rate creates a problem with 3rd and 4th-year apprentices and 1st and 2nd-year journeymen being overpaid compared to 1st and 2nd-year apprentices and more experienced journeymen. Becoming a knowledgeable electrician requires a vast amount of experience. Schooling provides you with the tools but not the practical on the job experience which is where training and teaching on the site comes in. We get a lot of 4th-year apprentices and 1st-year electrician applications. They are more hirable at the slightly reduced rate. When we make sure that the gap between them and the more experienced journeymen is substantial two things happen; the person making the higher wage doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mind helping the new person learn and the first year person wants to gain more knowledge to make more money. All of a sudden thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an incentive to gain experience,â&#x20AC;? he explained. Apple E lect r ic i s proud to have worked on a number of

award-winning projects, including the now defunct Target Store in Campbell River which won Vancouver Island Real Estate Boardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Commercial Building Award. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Unfortunately, for them, they are no longer in business,â&#x20AC;? Kuehnel commented. Apple Electric was nominated for Intermediate Business of the Year in 2014 by the Campbell River Chamber of Commerce, and for two years running have been voted Best Electrical Contractor by the people of Campbell River. In all of its growing success and recognition, neither Kuehnel nor his team, have forgotten the need to give back to others. They donate to an extensive list of charities including the Campbell River Rotary Club, UNICEF, Oxfam, Covenant House, Amnesty International, Cystic Fibrosis Canada, the Canadian Red Cross, Campbell River Foundation and Hockey for Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Also, himself being a cancer survivor, Cops for Cancer is high on his list of non-profits worthy of support. For more information and to see more of the projects and specialized electrical services offered by Apple Electric please visit their website â&#x20AC;&#x201C; www.appleelectric. ca , email info@appleelectric.ca or call 250-830-0997 if you have any questions.

Happy Clients of Apple Electric

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JULY 2016

‘Place of Smiles’ Receives National Recognition ‘Social Enterprise’ combines therapy and business

UNCAN – Vancouver Island’s own Providence Farm, an initiative that works with people with developmental, mental health and brain injury challenges, has been nationally recognized for its community contributions. Run by the Vancouver Island Providence Community Association, Providence Farm employs 30+ staff, and enjoys the support of 117 volunteers from the community. It supports individuals with mental health challenges, including seniors

suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Chris Holt, the Providence Farm’s executive director, and Jim Dias the board chair travelled to Ottawa to receive a 2016 Canada’s Volunteer Award - Social Innovator in the ‘British Columbia and the North’ category. “It’s been very humbling for everyone involved to be honored among so many amazing individuals and organizations across the country,” says Holt. “This award reflects the incredible efforts of

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our volunteers and staff who have worked so hard to support our vision and the program’s participants. “We have been able to develop a true sense of community here with the help of everyone involved. Each person is dedicated to innovating whenever possible, and that has been a large contributor to our success and longevity.” Providence Farms boasts a unique operational structure that has enabled it to go beyond the traditional limitations of non-profit organizations. The farm draws on funding from two primary sources, half from the government, and half generated internally through the sale of goods produced via its various social enterprises. These include farming, rentals, woodworking, and the general store onsite. Island Health and Community Living BC contribute the majority of government funding. “We have recognized for quite some time that we can’t rely on the government for everything that we need,” says Holt. “Our program is quite unique in that we want to create long term meaningful employment opportunities for the participants. Social enterprise is a way to do this. Over the years we have been able to develop permanent jobs for members of society that

Providence Farm executive director Chris Holt receiving a 2016 Canada’s Volunteer Award from The Honourable Jean-Yves Duclos PHOTO CREDIT: EMPLOYMENT AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT CANADA

have traditionally had challenges in the mainstream workforce and this is definitely a direction we will continue to develop. “Our therapy programs provide opportunities for those living with various mental health challenges to bring some balance to their lives. In return, the people we serve help make the farm a beautiful place for the community who support us. The community around us has recognized the value that we add to the region, and has shown incredible support through volunteering

in various capacities, becoming members and by making the decision to buy locally from our general store.” The organization’s success has been part of a global trend towards supporting programs that operate on the basis of achieving a ‘triple-bottom-line’. “People are always looking for opportunities to give back,” says Holt. “In our situation, they recognize that we add value to society, as well as the fact that we have very real costs to cover. What we’ve been able to do over the years is generate revenue and help people at the same time. “It’s been an incredibly rewarding experience, and I look forward to what the future holds for us. Our ultimate bottom line is the joy we see on the faces of our visitors, volunteers and participants. We are a place of smiles.” Future plans include an innovative therapeutic plant labyrinth, further development of the general store, and expansion of woodworking and more promotion of local agricultural tourism and education. Community members are welcomed to visit the site throughout the week to enjoy the unique setting created by Providence Farm. www.providence.bc.ca

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80% SOLD

Opportunity to position your business in this new industrial development in central Nanaimo. 1 acre lots available. For Sale | Prices Starting at $499,000

Approx. 8 acres Heavy Industrial zoned property; includes small home and 2,500 sq ft shop. Great potential! For Sale | $589,000

Well -finished 2,521 sq ft strata unit with 3 offices, reception, washroom and mezzanine. Zoned I -3 High Tech Industrial . For Sale | $429,000

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9.6 acre development site with possible subdivision potential. Prime central location. Zoned I -1 Light Industrial. For Sale l $2,945,000

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COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL MIX 20,000 sq ft building on 0.65 acre in Coombs. Ideal for owner -occupier &/or lease a portion of the premises. For Sale | $1,495,000

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY Quality strata property in prime location, stable commercial/residential tenant mix, excellent income potential. For Sale | $2,785,000

Multi-tenanted property including residence. Property has three different zones covering many uses. For Sale | $1,395,000

COR -2 - CENTRAL NANAIMO Customize this first -class 1,238 SF unit to your specifications. For Sale $279,900 For Lease $12.50/SF + OET

DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES 161 Island Hwy W., Parksville

Rare Opportunity - In popular tourist destination community, this 7 Acre Oceanfront Development Site is zoned CS -2. Level walk -on beach access. For Sale | $4,975,000

1441 Island Hwy E., Nanoose

Opportunity to purchase unique 2.56 acre Industrial 1 zoned property on Island Hwy (19A) in Nanoose Bay. Great potential! For Sale | $1,329,000

2414 & 2430 Island Hwy E, Nanoose

Excellent 5.7 acre development opportunity, 3 parcels with a long -term tenant in place on one parcel. Commercial 5 zoning. .For Sale | $2,500,000

2601 Mission Rd, Courtenay

Highly visible 2.8 acre development site adjacent to the newly constructed Comox Valley Hospital. For Sale | $1,960,000

Information contained herein has been obtained from the owners or sources deemed reliable by NAI Commercial Central Vancouver Island Ltd. While we have no reason to doubt its accuracy, we regret we cannot guarantee such information. All measurements and other information herein should be independently verified by the reader or prospective user and is subject to the u ser’s own inspection of the premises and due diligence work and to the user’s satisfaction with the results of such review.

JULY 2016

COWICHAN EXCAVATING COMPANY HAS GROWN DRAMATICALLY “I never imagined the Stone Pacific Contracting first opened for business in 2004

company would grow as fast as it did.” BRANT STONE OWNER, STONE PACIFIC CONTRACTING

UNCAN – Conceived as a small venture a dozen years ago, Stone Pacific Contracting Ltd. has grown and evolved from a couple of excavators and a handful of employees to become one of the larger excavation, land clearing and trucking enterprises working in the South Island region. “Back in 2004 there were three of us who started Stone Pacific, basically as a side project,” remembers company owner Brant Stone. “We had one excavator and I essentially managed it in my spare time. I ended up bidding on a little subdivision at that time and then we found that we needed a dump truck and a second excavator and the company started to grow from there.” Coming from a Civil Engineering background Stone used his training and experience to acquire additional contracts and to find new and larger projects to work on. “At the time things were really booming so we continued acquiring new equipment and additional crew. It was pretty easy for us to expand as the work just kept rolling in.”

After several years of operating his fledgling excavation business as a sideline Stone recognized that the firm had the makings of becoming a solid business venture. In 2010 he bought out his partners to operate the company as its sole owner. It was a move that he has never had any cause to regret. A true family business, his wife Jill administers the office while two of Stone’s cousins also work for the company. “I never imagined the company would grow as fast as it did, but like anything else once you get into business if it’s not growing and changing it’s essentially dying. So every year since then we’ve always tried to either

Keep up the good work TF: 1-877-715-1019 Ph: 250-746-4511 Fx: 250-746-4507

2999 Allenby Road Duncan, BC V9L 6V8 cowichanpetroleum.ca

A real asset for Stone Pacific is that it operates its own quarry, assuring a steady supply of aggregate expand or to tap into some new market that we’ve not previously explored,” he said. Today Stone Pacific Contracting regularly works for clients from Nanaimo to Victoria and has a crew of more than 60. Operating a fleet of trucks (gravel and lowbed), rock crushers and screeners, excavators, dozers, compactors, rock drills (air track and hydraulic) and even such specialized machines as Slingers (a specialized style of dump truck that incorporates a conveyor system to move its load with pinpoint precision) the company has the experience, crew, training and technology to handle an expanding range of construction and excavation assignments. Typical projects the company undertakes includes heavy civil ea r t h mov i ng, forestr y road building, underground utility works, the production of aggregate materials such as gravel, land clearing duties, demolition, general trucking and more recently subdivision development through

Stone Pacific Contracting has had a great deal of experience in the construction of logging roads its new development arm. “Local governments are among our more frequent clients. While we also have federal contracts the majority comes from local municipalities, the Regional District and private clients, such as

Congratulations to Brant, Jill and the team at Stone Paciﬁc Contracting! We’re proud to be part of your crew. Cory Hay, Senior Manager, CWB Equipment Financing 250.390.6405 Cory.Hay@cwbequipment.com cwbef.com

subdivision developers,” Stone explained. “Working with other firms we are involved in a couple of subdivision projects right now in a SEE STONE PACIFIC | PAGE 39

Proud to support a successful local business like Stone Pacific Contracting

JULY 2016

Part of the company’s fleet include Slingers, a specialized form of dump truck that uses a conveyor belt

Urban or rural, Stone Pacific Contracting handles any job, including working for area municipalities

Some of the logging roads completed by the company take place on mountain slopes and other remote locations

The company, which first opened in 2004, has an expansive fleet of vehicles including heavy transports

STONE PACIFIC

company is equally at home operating in remote locations. In particular Stone Pacific Contracting has gathered a great deal of experience constructing forestry roads, in many cases on steep and

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 38

developer’s capacity. This is an area I’d like to see become a larger part of my business as I enjoy the

Congratulations to Stone Pacific Contracting on your success in the industry We are proud to be serving the transportation industry on Vancouver Island for over 35 years.

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development work. We’re also in every sense an equal opportunity employer as the company always employees Cowichan Tribes members and have successfully completed many projects with the

First Nations in the past.” Experienced working in an urban or suburban environment, thanks to its background constructing subdivisions and working for municipalities, the

Congratulates Stone Pacific Contracting on their success! 1080 Goldstream Ave, Victoria, BC

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difficult terrain. “Bu i ld i ng logg i ng roads is something that you’re not likely to see, as it’s out in the bush far SEE STONE PACIFIC | PAGE 40

Congratulations to Brant and Jill and the entire team at Stone PaciÀc Contracting. Phone 250.748.2531 Fax 250.748.3627 www.duncanpaving.com

40 STONE PACIFIC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 39

away from civilization. We do quite a bit of road building for the forest sector, which is another of the special niches we like to fill,” he said. “It can get a little tricky as we’re often out of the lowlands and up into the highlands, clawing our way up some of these really obnoxiously steep mountain slopes. There we’ll be, drilling and blasting our way slowly to the top. It’s certainly a specialized type of service.” Another unique aspect of the services Stone Pacific Contracting can offer is that it can provide its own supply of gravel and other aggregate, thanks to a quarry and gravel pit it operates. “We run a quarry in Cobble Hill where we produce a lot of manufactured product primarily for use in town, everything from three to four foot rip rap used for building rock walls and structural retaining walls down to crushed road bases (gravel), cart path material and that sort of thing. Having our own supply readily available is a real benefit for us and our clients.” Safety for his crews and for those his company encounters on a daily basis is another part of the firm’s ongoing business plan. Stone Pacific is currently in the process of becoming COR™ (Certificate of Recognition) certified, and will be fully certified by the fall. The company also has

Congratulations on your success! We are proud to work alongside you. (250) 709-8259 Duncan, BC

JULY 2016

a dedicated safety person, while the firm’s forestry division is fully SAFE (Safety Accord Forestry Enterprise) certified, as required by the BC Forest Safety Council. “You generally have to have that level of certification if you want to work in the bush,” he said. “We take safety very seriously, but you have to otherwise clients will not take you seriously, and why would they? If you’re working for a big forestry company they simply won’t want you on their site unless you have all of the right certification. We never want to be seen as any sort of a fly by night type of operation, that’s not what got us to where we are today.” For Stone, after more than a decade of experience, an expanding fleet of trucks and equipment, an evolving variety of services and products and a solid reputation for quality and professionalism, the future is looking very positive. “We have a great management team. We are continuing with our ongoing expansion efforts and plan to increase our coverage area to eventually include all of Vancouver Island and maybe even over on the Mainland at some point,” he said. “We have an excellent reputation with the local governments and other businesses so of course we want to maintain and continue that standing into the future.” Expanding on the company’s experience as a developer, rather than as a service provider is another of the key components of Stone Pacific’s future evolution. Presently the company is serving as the developer of a pair of local subdivisions, but further similar projects could easily play roles in the company’s future endeavors. “Right now we’re working on two subdivisions, residential single family type projects. I would like to continue having something like that ticking away on the back burner,” he said. “Slow and steady growth is part of the business plan. Every year we’ve always managed to add something to our fleet or to our product line. Even during slower times, like in 2009 and 2010 we still managed to continue growing so our strategy I guess is to make sure we have a solid

The company began with a single excavator but has grown over the years to include a wide range of machines

Basic land clearing and excavating assignments continue to make up the bulk of the company’s workload foundation under us at all times and to slowly and surely continue to build the business.” For Stone the Cowichan Valley is more than just a place of employment, its home and he and his family have strong links to its past. A fourth generation Cowichan Valley resident, he is hoping to someday pass the company on to his daughters, but as they are

still young he has a way to go before passing over the reins. “Our roots certainly run deep in the Cowichan Valley. My great grandfather came over from England right around the turn of the century and he ended up settling in the Valley,” he explained. “I have three daughters, 7, 9 and 11 so it’s going to be a while yet. Of course I don’t know if they

will ever become involved in the business, or even if they’ll want to but the door is certainly open to them if they want to give it a try. It would be kind of neat to see a fifth generation staying and working in the Valley. That would be a legacy for sure.” To learn more please visit the company’s website at: www. stonepacific.com

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OFF THE COVER

JULY 2016

WORTHY CUSTOM HOMES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

purchase, dealing with the real estate companies on their client’s behalf, navigating the complex paperwork involved while saving the customer from having to pay real estate commission fees. “What Worthy Custom Homes does is offer a unique, personalized service, assisting with every aspect of the deal, of the home build. Where most builders would expect the clients to have all their ducks in a row before they start their service, what we do is handle every aspect of the deal from start to finish all in-house at our ocean front office in Cowichan Bay,” Salmon explained. T he WCHF business model sees the firm providing its clients with a range of options, tailored to meet the needs and fiscal capability of each individual client. These services will include assisting with the financing process, such as the company’s proprietary ‘low money down assistance program’ – geared toward customers who have come up a little short in terms of putting together their down-payment on a new home. “We can assist with that as we have a private fund within the company to deal specifically with that scenario,” he said. As a combination financial firm, home builder, residential developer and real estate sales coordinator Worthy Custom

Fiona (Feebee) the Office Manager, David Salmon (center) and Gary Osborne look forward to the future

“We’re definitely David Salmon proudly shows off one of the custom designed and constructed homes his firm is famous for

unique in this market; we’re certainly not a conventional real estate office.” DAVID SALMON PRESIDENT, WORTHY CUSTOM HOMES & FINANCE

Homes & Finance has a team of about 20, dispersed in its various divisions. The company’s operations are divided into four basic areas: Finance, Construction, Sales and Development. “We’re not realtors ourselves but we work with a lot of realtors, mortgage companies and other firms involved in the sale of real estate. All of our people play a part in putting together the services that we offer.” W h i le t he t rad it ion a l approach to purchasing a home is more like shopping at a variety of independent mom and pop

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stores scattered all over town, the service provided by Worthy Custom Homes is more akin to shopping in a mall – with all of the products, services and options available under a single roof. “We can help you explore all of your options, determine the best way to meet your needs, even if you feel you don’t have a lot of options available to you,” Salmon said. “With us you have choices, and through us we can help you build a beautiful, quality custom home. While we do work with other builders we mainly focus on our own products, which are custom built new homes.” During the past two years WCHF has also began exploring and expanding its role as a developer as well as a builder. The company has been instrumental in initiating a number of new developments across the Cowichan Valley for example. Describing himself as born entrepreneur, Salmon has been involved with business his entire professional life, but has found through Worthy Custom Homes a real sense of satisfaction, when bringing homeownership to those who might not otherwise have been able to purchase a new home. “My partner, Gary Osborne, runs the construction side of things. He’s a gifted builder having learned his craft in England. He’s a second generation contracting construction person so he knows all the aspects of home building from the ground up.” A professional project manager/designer Osborne benefits the firm’s range of clients with their unique project needs. Customer’s projects are driven by individual goals and Worthy aims to deliver projects efficiently, on time and to budget while maintaining an exceptional quality of service. Considerable effort is made to ensure each stage of the projects are managed, communicated and executed with efficiency. Meticulous attention to detail

David Salmon is the president and CEO of Worthy Custom Homes & Finance a firm launched in 1999 is demonstrated in the scale and scope of the work. Osborne has built a reputation for delivering projects professionally and in style, he is skilled in promoting excellence in communications between team members and always aims to exceed the client’s expectations. He has over 25 years experience in both heritage buildings and modern to contemporary builds and is passionate in designing them to be exquisite and sustainable in the long term. For the f utu re Sa l mon envisions his unique home sale business model being expanded elsewhere on the Island. “We have definitely explored the idea of franchising, which might be something that we look at a little more seriously in the future,” he said. “For now we’re going to keep p u sh i n g for wa rd , cont i nue bu i ld i ng qua l ity homes a nd continue expanding on our development work. We’re thinking about opening another office further north, maybe in Campbell River, but for right now our focus continue to remain the Cowichan Valley and the entire South Island area. The future looks exciting.” To learn more please visit the company’s website at: www. worthyrealestate.ca

JULY 2016

THE CALL OF THE INN Formerly an unused building, Cable Cove Inn is now flourishing

OFINO - It’s the kind of a place one dreams about when considering a personal or couple’s get-away: luxurious rooms, ocean views and idyllic seclusion. Although Jae Valentine and her husband, Bill Walker had visited the area on a number of occasions, they never dreamed that their anticipated retirement plans would someday include the purchase of Tofino-based Cable Cove Inn. “We’ve gone there many times during off-season but we never thoug ht we’d buy a nd r u n a business there. We wanted to retire in a couple of years but instead, we bought the Inn,” Jae told Business Vancouver Island. The combined history of the Inn, Bill’s background in financial management, Jae’s love of people and customer service, and the renewal of a run-down, bankrupt and former professional services office is nothing less than fascinating. “T he bu i ld i ng orig i na l ly housed a dental office on the main floor and the family lived u p s t a i rs . T h e n e x t o w n e rs turned it into a B&B and they were there for 15 years. A few years after they sold it, it went into foreclosure,” Jae explained. That’s where Bill enters the pict u re. A s m a n a ger of t he mortgage company that was involved with the foreclosure, he knew the condition of the building and the work required to re-invent or re-open it. That’s the first part of the story. The next chapter begins with Jae, an experienced newspaper editor and manager for 20 years. Realizing that her first business love was in distribution and logistics, she set up an organization now known as the National Distributors Alliance. After leaving that profession

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The yurk; a future king-sized bridal suite

A view from above Cable Cove

A daytime view from each balcony she then took a position with the Nanaimo-based Vancouver Island Symphony for the next 11 seasons. “We’d planned on retirement in the next couple of years, but the Inn kept following us. One day Bill’s son told us he’d decided to move to Ucluelet where he wanted to build a house. Then, we had a financial interest in a nother proper ty where the owners were retrofitting and they offered to give us a lot of free furniture.” T he couple were u nable to escape the g row i ng conv iction that becoming involved with the Inn was the thing they were supposed to do; plans for

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Gardens to soothe and delight the senses retirement were put on hold when they purchased the building in the fall of 2015. Finally, an almost “icing on the cake” moment happened when a former colleague and photo journalist, Mark Corbett, wanted to make a change in his life and mentioned that he was thinking of moving to Tofino. “We just knew it was right. Mark is now our manager” Jae continued. And right it has proven to be.

Utilizing her many business and personal connections, word of the newly renovated Tofino resort is spreading, with inquiries coming from Vancouver Island, the provinces of British Columbia and Alberta, Washington State and Germany. When asked to explain why it is advertised as a Couples Only facility, Jae noted that the configuration of the rooms only allows for one queen-sized bed in each unit. Each room has a

private balcony, breathtaking views of the scenery and wildlife, and a gas fireplace. Five of the six rooms also feature Jacuzzi tubs. Service to other clients currently is being expanded, though. Jae says they will be adding two more rooms in the near future, including a girls get-away suite that will sleep up to six people. An existing yurt will be turned into a king sized bridal suite. There’s little more that could be wished for in terms of the per fect get-away u n less, of cou rse, you cou nt the location and the unique customer service. “It’s located in the heart of Tofino. You park your car and walk to everything; you d o n’t e v e n re a l i z e y o u’re downtown because you’re on a dead-end street. We also do coffee and tea service to our guests’ doors every morning and we are happy to book excursions and coordinate tours for them. We make sure they get the most out of their visit.” For more information contact www.cablecoveinn.ca or call 250.725.2660.

Congratulations Cable Cove Inn on your Successful Opening AND

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JULY 2016

HEALTHY HARVEST FARM: AN AMAZING ENTERPRISE AND A GREAT STORY

PORT ALBERNI PAT DEAKIN

he Healthy Harvest Farm is an enterprise sponsored by Port Alberni’s Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA). The initiative, in its 6th year, grew out of a desire to give CMHA clients meaningful work in a calming environment and to give the community a source of fresh, local produce. The farm helps clientele gain a transferable skill set, learn how to work as a team member and feel appreciated for their contribution. It also increases personal wellness by giving participants the opportunity to get grounded by having their hands in the

soil and nurturing plants in a peaceful setting. The farm also provides work experience for clients of INEO, a local employment services agency. Fifteen CMHA Clubhouse members, 8 INEO clients, more than 30 community volunteers, and 2 classes of Alberni District Senior Secondary students have been on the farm this growing season. Having a broad cross section of the local community work alongside participants helps decrease the stigma around mental illness and reduces the isolation of the participants. The farm is on fee simple land ow ned by the Hupacasath First Nation and leased to CMHA for a small annual sum. An interesting aspect of the lease is that the production of organic vegetables only is written into it and while these are non-certified at the present time, they follow, as much as possible, the biodynamic calendar. The Hupacasath are on the same farm site and share a greenhouse as they expand their own food production initiatives. The two groups have been working together to increase the capacity of the

farm by expanding the irrigation system (with financial assistance from the Alberni Valley Community Foundation) and investing in other infrastructure to extend the growing season. This year the farm was expanded to more than double the growing capacity. This increased the scope of training for the participants and will increase production and revenues. At this point the farm also relies on grants and has a joint application in with INEO hoping to capture federal funding for a youth training program; a joint application with the Hupacasath for fencing for the site; and other applications which would help to cover participant’s wages. A grant from the Vancouver Foundation spread over the last two years has been crucial to the operation of the farm. To learn more please email healthy.harvest@cmha.bc.ca or call 250.735.0520. Pat Deakin is the Economic Development Manager for the City of Port Alberni. He can be reached at 250-720-2527 or Patrick_deakin@portalberni.ca

HIGH SPEED OPENS DOORS FOR WORKING REMOTELY

TOFINO JEN DART

ere on the west coast we are welcoming the arrival of high speed internet to the entire community. While some businesses and residents have had high speed internet for some time, the fibre optic network was not functional until this month. The new fibre optic development by prov iders Telus a nd Mascon Cable changes the game for the a rea. Not on ly will visitors be able to change speeds they’re accustomed to at home, but businesses now have fewer impediments. It a lso open s up a nother potential sector

Thursday, July 14th

– the remote worker. In the past this sector was limited, as often internet providers could not meet requirements. Now, Tofino’s tight housing market may be the only restriction for potential remote workers f rom making the lifestyle move to the west coast. T he Chamber together with the District of Tofino is looking at ways to embrace this new potential economic sector. Mascon Cable is a Chamber member and new compa ny to t he area, having taken over t h e i nter n e t n e t work of the former Seaview Cable. I n a d d it ion to the fibre optic upgrade, the Salmon Arm-based compa ny i s a l so providing cable television services and has donated two channels to the community, including one to the Cha mber of Com merce. We a re tha n k f u l to be able to offer additional advertising opportunities to ou r members th roug h the cha n nel a nd a re

appreciative of this new community partner. ■■■ We welcome the following new members to the Chamber network: Tofino Coffee, Tofino Air, Jarmos B&B, Habit Clothing, Girl on a Board Kite School and Pilot House Media. ■■■ Here at the Chamber we have now wrapped up our events until September as our members turn their focus to the busy summer season. Our final member event in June was a delicious lunch at the Ice House Oyster Bar on June 28 th . A huge thank-you to Alan Beesley and his crew at the Ice House, who provided an amazi n g s pre ad , c omplete with fresh oysters, salad, choice of entrees, and dessert. Jen Dart is Executive Director of the TofinoLong Beach Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at 250.725.3153. www.tofinochamber.org

Thursday, July 21st

Circo Osoria Canada (Circus) - No Animals 7:30 pm - Russell Field

2EGISTRATION AT .OON s 3HOT 'UN START AT PM $INNER AT PM !LBERNI 'OLF #LUB

Friday, July 15th Boat Show & Shine Noon - Blue Marlin Inn

Saturday and Sunday July 16th & 17th Saturday, July 23rd Noon - Williamson Park

Regatta 10:00 am Sproat Lake Provincial Park

JOIN US FOR THESE WONDERFUL JULY EVENTS IN PORT ALBERNI FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE GO TO THE CITY OF

Port Alberni

www.alberni.ca/events

Saturday, July 23rd Tsunami Bike Fest 2016 Noon to 5:00 pm 3rd Avenue

CAMPBELL RIVER

JULY 2016

Tug Company Has Serviced The Coast For More Than 40 Years West Coast Tug & Barge Equipped To Handle Virtually Any Size Of Cargo

West Coast Tug & Barge has operated along the BC coast since 1976, from Alaska to Washington State

AMPBELL RIVER – If it’s too big, too heavy or too cumbersome to travel by road, rail or air – sea transport is the surest and most cost effective manner to get it there. For more than 40 years Campbell River’s West Coast Tug and Barge Ltd. has been successfully keeping industry supplied and on the move. Operating a fleet of rugged and reliable tug boats the company has been serving clients all along the west coast (from Washington State to Alaska) since 1976. West Coa st T u g cu r rent ly operates vessels ranging from 40’ to more than 70’, tugs capable of towing the heaviest of cargoes. Specialists in barge towing, current owner Lukas Olsen and his team (Olsen is fourth generation Vancouver Island born and raised) have the experience, the equipment and the local knowledge to deliver a vast range of goods on time and on budget. The company has an extensive experience in moving freight of all kinds, log barging, equipment delivery and general towing. West Coast Tug and Barge currently operates a fleet of four tugs, six barges, three log loaders, four winders and a host of ancillary equipment that even

includes a helicopter. The firm currently has a staff of about 25. Under the firm’s current management the firm has experienced an incredible 350 per cent growth in the past decade But much more than a transportation service, with four decades of experience behind it West Coast Tug and Barge can also provide services not normally associated with a transport company. The company has a long relationship with the Canadian Coast Guard, has assisted with log booming ground installations and can even offer advice on intermodal applications such as incorporating helicopters (including its own) to reduce any potential negative impact on the local marine environment. Bulk freight such as aggregate or ores can realistically only be moved by sea. West Coast has the capacity to move loads as large as 7,000 metric tonnes, making it the right choice for moving the heaviest of cargoes. In addition, British Columbia’s beautiful coastline is dotted with remote camps and sheltered communities, destinations that can only be reached by air or by water. Providing barges with deck capacities of nearly 25,000 square feet, West Coast Tug can deliver the goods, from pallet freight to

construction materials and vehicles to even the most remote and inaccessible location. But there’s much more to the company than the loading and moving goods, the firm also has the capacity to repair and construct. The company has the proven expertise to carry

A postcard moment: one of the company’s tug fleet, barge in tow, works its way through waters near Campbell River out capital refits on all types of tugs, barges and other marine assets. Its construction experts can assist with such diverse tasks as breakwater installation and repair, stiff leg construction and installation and much more. Starting on its fifth decade of

service, West Coast Tug and Barge looks forward to the challenges and triumphs that lay ahead. The company’s motto really does say it all: Propelling Business Forward Since 1976. To learn more please visit the company’s website at: www. westcoasttug.ca

The company’s fleet of vessels is capable of handling virtually any transport job, such as towing log barges

UPCOMING CHAMBER EVENTS

T CAMPBELL RIVER COLLEEN EVANS

he Chamber is welcomi n g Honou rable Steve Thompson, Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations to Campbell River for an exclusive luncheon. The event will be taking place on July 15th, 2015 from 11:30 am - 1:30 pm at the Anchor Inn. If you have an interest in BC forestry, climate change, fish, wildlife or habitat management you can purchase your tickets on t he Ch a mb er website at www.campbellriverchamber. ca or contact Ashleigh Wilson,

Memb er Ser v ices, M a rketing and Events Coordinator at 250-914-1144. ■■■ Calling for Speakers! The Chamber has officially launched a call for Proposals for the 2016 Lunch and Learn Series! The primary purpose of the Chamber’s Lunch and Learn Program is to provide informative and educational seminars that are relevant to the starting, operating and managing of growing businesses. Have a topic you would like to speak

about? A trend in information technology? A better way of doing things? Share your interests and expertise in a Lunch & Learn hosted by us! I f yo u wo u l d l i k e to s u bmit a proposal, please contact Ashleigh. Proposals are due by June 30th at 4:00pm. We welcome your ideas! ■■■ Nom i n at ion s a re op en for the 2016 Business Awards of Distinction! Do you know a business or individual who deserves to be

celebrated a nd recog n i zed? Nominate them for a 2016 Business Award of Distinction here! https://www.surveymonkey. com/r/M2RLLJK For a full description of the awards head to the Chamber website www.campbellriverchamber.ca. Colleen Evans is CEO of the Campbell River Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at colleen.evans@ campbellriverchamber.ca

JULY 2016

CHBA PROMOTES PROFESSIONALISM AND HELPS PROTECT CONSUMERS Association helps builders do business better by vetting information and connecting like-minded individuals

A NA I MO – T he Canadian Home Builder’s Association on Vancouver Island(CHBA-VI) raises the bar on the residential construction industry advocating for its members and promoting consumer confidence. Representing homebuilders in Canada for more than 65 years the Canadian Home Builder’s Association (CHBA) provides its 8,000 Canadian member firms with a voice for businesses serving the residential construction industry. CHBA Vancouver Island is the regional non-profit arm of the association with 120 member companies. It covers all island regions and focuses on achieving a stable business environment for its members, promoting and protecting the interests of consumers and supporting the professionalism of its businesses. “We help our members do business better by vetting information for them on things like building code changes, new building technology and financial issues,” said Kelsey Botting, executive officer CHBA-VI, adding that the

Jason Schmidt serves as vice president on the CHBA board and partner at Pheasant Hill Homes

Pheasant Hill Homes Ken Connelly and Jason Schmidt receiving Single Family Builder of the Year CREDIT:CONCEPT PHOTOGRAPHY

CREDIT:JASON SCHMIDT

“We help our members do business better by vetting information for them on things like building code changes, new building technology, and financial issues.” KELSEY BOTTING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CANADIAN HOME BUILDER’S ASSOCIATION VANCOUVER ISLAND

association provides not only relevant and current training, but also networking opportunities and liaison with all levels of government. Jason Schmidt, vice president, CHBA-VI, Pheasant Hill Homes, said that, the association acts as an advocate for professionalism in the industry, providing a code of ethics its members must adhere to. “The public can rest assured that when dealing with CHBA members they are working with the best in the industry.” He also noted that ongoing education is required by law for home builders. CHBA offers seminars, workshops and continuing education credits for upgrading and

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VANCOUVER ISLAND BUILDING EXCELLENCE AWARDS Single Family Builder of the Year

staying current with changes in regulations and building codes. “Mandated education has been the best thing to happen to the residential building industry in BC in some time,” he emphasized. “It helps ensure builders keep on top of code changes, new products and technology, especially in regards to energy efficiency and seismic upgrades.” Schmidt added that the organization serves to protect the consumer, promoting an extra layer of security by demanding a higher level of professionalism. Last year, CHBA-VI introduced a new line up of awards with 29 categories that recognize high standards in building, renovation

and design on Vancouver Island. T he Vancouver Island Building Excellence awards or VIBE awards include seven categories such as Sales and Marketing, Special Achievement and Residential Planning, Design and Construction. This year, the VIBE award gala, attended by 175 industry leaders and hosted by TV personality Bruce Williams, was sponsored by premier diamond partners; Homeowner Protection Office and BC Housing, Emerald Partners; Slegg Building Materials, and Gold partner; Fortis BC. Media partners included CTV, Y.A.M. Magazine and Black Press and held at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre. “We had two major winners,” said Botting. “Pheasant Hill Homes, winning four awards, including Single Family Builder of the Year and Best Single Family Kitchen under $50,000, and Mac Renovations which won Renovator of the Year.” Also in the winner’s circle were CA Design, Residential Community of the Year and Keith Baker Design Inc. for Project of the Year. “The awards recognize excellence in our profession,” said Schmidt “It provides a format for showcasing our work to the public and being judged and recognized by our peers.” CHBA-VI is at 170 Wallace Street in Nanaimo www.chbavi.com

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JULY 2016

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER EXPANDING HIS NANAIMO CLIENT LIST Aspect Designs: Langley Firm Specializes In Computerized Home Design

A NA I MO – D i sproving the old expression, TJ Reavley is proof that you really can go home again. A Nanaimo-born residential architectural designer and the owner of Langley’s Aspect Designs, Reavley has learned that working out of the Lower Mainland is no detriment to serving clients in his home town. “Having grown up in Nanaimo I know a lot of builders and developers there, in fact we just finished a coach house project (a backyard secondary suite) in the city and now I’m hoping to continue doing more work in Nanaimo,” he explained. Aspect Designs is an architectural design and drafting business that primarily serves the residential construction market. Using the latest in computer assisted design and 3D rendering technologies the company has specialized in the creation of a range of projects such as spec homes, custom houses, secondary suites, additions, garages and of course coach houses. The company has worked across the

Architectural Designer TJ Reavley was born in Nanaimo but operates out of Langleybased Aspect Designs

“I can see myself working in Nanaimo much more in the coming months.” TJ REAVLEY OWNER, ASPECT DESIGNS

Computer design systems can be used to illustrate how a home will look long before it is actually constructed Lower Mainland and even south of the border in Colorado, California and in Washington State. While continuing to operate out his Langley headquarters Reavely says he has an ongoing working relationship with Nanaimo’s See The Future Contracting (STF) and expects that thanks to that partnership he will become more involved in the local construction sector. “I’m going to continue to be based on the Lower Mainland but by partnering with them I can see myself working in Nanaimo much more in the coming

Agreement signed to fast-track Seafood exports into China

OMOX VALLEY – S e a fo o d e x p o r t s are expected to be fast-tracked through the Comox Valley, following the signing of a strategic cooperative agreement in the Comox Valley on June 10. A n t h o n y Wa n , c o fou nder of Gfresh, the world’s l a rgest on l i ne marketplace for seafood, signed the agreement with Inspection Group Canada (CCIC Canada) representatives Gang Yang, the General Manager, and Deputy Manager Adam Zhao during the B.C. Shellfish Festival, coordinated by the Comox Valley Economic Development Society. The agreement enables Ca nad ia n ex por ters to sell directly to over 2,500 wholesale buyers in China and Asia through Gfresh’s online application. It is the first seafood e-commerce platform with its own inhouse cold-chain logistics solution, which includes customs handling, temperature controlled delivery vans and quality

From left: Gfresh International business development manager Cora Su, Gfresh co-founder Anthony Wan, Comox Mayor Paul Ives, B.C.’s special representative in Asia Ben Stewart, CCICCA general manager Gang Yang, Comox Valley Economic Development Society Executive Director John Watson and CCICCA deputy manager Adam Zhao. inspectors. Incorporated in 2004, CCICC Canada is an oversea s subsid i a r y of t he China Certification and Inspection Group and is headquartered in Vancouver. Currently, China customs will detain and inspect between 25-50 per cent of the fresh seafood products entering China, a process that can take 4-5 days and result in financial losses

and reduced freshness and quality of the product once it is released for market consumption. This agreement is aimed at developing a pre-shipment inspection solution for Canadian seafood exporters via Gfresh, which is expected to become the quickest trade route possible, as well as lower customs inspections rates. www.gfresh.com

months,” he said. A one-time Nanaimo based roofer, Reavley moved to the Vancouver area to attend the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) to study Architecture and Building Engineering. Unfortunately an accident saw him sidelined temporarily as he recovered and acquired addition education. Launching Aspect Designs in 2015 as a means of getting back into the construction trades he now looks forward to reestablishing his presence in the Harbour City’s building sector.

“I regularly travel to Nanaimo to visit family and friends anyway so it makes sense to have at least part of my business based there,” he explained. “We have several clients who have inquired about having other laneway houses done in the Nanaimo area, which speaks well for the future. I’ve always had a love for the Island and a passion for building, so for me this is the perfect win-win.” To learn more please visit the company’s website at: www.aspectdesigns.ca

JULY 2016

Family Business Association Breaks From National Organization Retaining autonomy and successful programing motivated association to become individual entity

Members of FBAVI felt peer advisory groups and family business events were a vital part of the success of the Vancouver Island chapter. L to R: Mike Brooks of Rinald Tax Advisory and FBAVI Treasurer and right, Stewart Story of Story Construction and FBAVI BETH HENDRY-YIM

f it isn’t broken don’t fix it. A solid piece of advice that t he newly formed Family Business Association Vancouver Island (FBAVI), takes very seriously. Originally known as the Canadian Association of Family Enterprise Vancouver Island Chapter (CAFEVI), the group offers unique and targeted support for businesses owned and operated by mu ltiple fa m ily members. With a sizeable membership and highly successful programing, it has been one of the most active chapters of CAFE in Canada. However, when the national organization chose to change some of its policy and structure to better serve the needs of its struggling chapters, the Vancouver Island branch asked its membership for their opinion. “Our members were not comfortable with the changes national was wanting to make to its standardized experience,” said Stewart Story, president of the former CAFE VI and newly created FBAVI. “A lot of thought went into the decision by national to ensure it delivered good value to all of its members and we understood its need to consider all chapters.” But in 2015 when the membership was asked for an informal vote on the new direction CAFE was taking, it unanimously supported an autonomous position to retain its independence, values and popular activities. “Our group took a look at the services our membership valued most. Of paramount importance were the peer advisory groups and reg u lar fam ily business events.” “A CAFE chapter in Nova Scotia chose to became autonomous at the same time and it helped tremendously to dialogue back

Lively discussion at FBAVI launch with Dorothy, Walter and Leigh Large of Country Grocer, Ross Borland, Vessel Liquor Store, and Oliver Sommer of Black Press CREDIT:FBAVI

Story said that executive director Bernadine Rudichuk was a major reason the transition from chapter to single entity went so smoothly CREDIT:FBAVI

“Our group took a look at the services our membership valued most. Of paramount importance were the peer advisory groups and regular family events.” STEWART STORY PRESIDENT FAMILY BUSINESS ASSOCIATION VANCOUVER ISLAND

and forth about what worked best for each of ou r g roup’s members and how to implement any legal changes,” said Story. “There were a lot of commonalities, especially around how both groups focused more on sharing stories and experiences, not just business cards.” Story explained that family businesses are unique entities, not for the goods or services they provide, but for the inner dynamics and legalities of working, and in some cases living, side by

Cindy Plumb of Pajo’s Restaurants and David Webb, Fernhill Financial CREDIT:FBAVI

side with a family member on a regular basis. “It creates a unique set of circumstances that can be very rewarding, but can also come with its own challenges. Having a community that understands those shared experiences is invaluable.” He added, that retaining the community it has fostered and built over the years was an important consideration. Peer advisory groups, which operate like a mini board of directors are made up of between eight and 10 members, meet monthly, providing opportunities for participants to share successes and discover solutions to the challenges they are experiencing. “Panelist events generate great d ia log ue,” sa id Stor y. “A nd were some of the services our members wanted to keep.” He added that the FBAVI members sha re t hei r fa m i ly busi ness stories providing opportunities

for others to learn from their successes. The group also hosts regular workshops for practical information on topics such as employment law, exit strategies and legacy building and dealing with the challenges of conflict in the family. “We have a dedicated group of members from as far away as the Great Bear Rainforest, and up and down the island,” said Story. “Some even drive to our venues in Victoria monthly to attend meetings and events, and to participate in our lively and informative discussions, or if they can’t make the drive they join in via Skype or video conferencing.” As the newly formed Family Business Association Vancouver Island, the organization will continue to represent and serve the island’s family business community. The legalities of changing the organizations

name and affiliation have been completed with legal considerations and bylaws rebuilt to suit its new independent status. In early June in Victoria, the rebranded entity was launched at a well-attended gala event. Story said, that the new logo and brand is representative of the group’s aims. Designed by member, Hot House Marketing and Don Dagg, the simple design encapsulates the intertwined nature of the family business. “There has been no ill will between CAFE and FBAVI. The new direction the national association is taking works for them, and we want to continue to provide the support services that have made us successful and work for our members.” He added that one of the reasons the transition from chapter to single entity has been so smooth is because of the group’s executive director, Bernadine Rudichuk. “Her work and efforts are the real asset to our organization. She helped throughout the collaboration with Nova Scotia and kept our group and aims cohesive and focused.” The group’s success and popularity is now driving the creation of a chapter in other parts of mid/ north Vancouver Island, broadening its reach and extending its programming to the Island communities. Interested family businesses, looking for a forum to deepen understanding of the dy na m ics a nd i ntricacies of working with family members are encouraged to contact fba@ familybusinessassociationvi.ca. The Family Business Association Vancouver Island is at www. familybusinessassociationvi.ca

WHO IS SUING WHOM

JULY 2016

WHO IS SUING WHOM The contents of Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Suing Whom is provided by a thirdparty resource and is accurate according to public court documents. Some of these cases may have been resolved by publication date. DEFENDANT 839816 BC LTD 823 Canada Ave, Duncan, BC PLAINTIFF Directcash ATM Processing Partnership CLAIM $ 25,200 DEFENDANT Bavarian Imports Auto Repairs Ltd 1712 Kidson Rd, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Befus, Lane CLAIM $ 7,077 DEFENDANT Boal Enterprises Ltd 112-7088 West Saanich Rd, Saanichton, BC PLAINTIFF Hoek Van Holland Landscaping Ltd CLAIM $ 7,198 DEFENDANT Call in The Plumber

2174 Stone Gate, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Tiurpenko, Andrey CLAIM $ 5,546 DEFENDANT Chiron Health Services Inc 201-19 Dallas Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Kehler, Christopher Mark CLAIM $ 18,034 DEFENDANT Cornerstone Properties Ltd 201-2377 Bevan Ave, Sidney, BC PLAINTIFF Jurinich, Mario CLAIM $ 20,426 DEFENDANT Filko Marble and Granite 1130 Fair Rd, Parksville, BC PLAINTIFF Schnirer, Otto Joseph CLAIM $ 11,341

PLAINTIFF Eecol Electric UlC CLAIM $ 70,920

PLAINTIFF Couldwell, Heather Marie CLAIM $ 40,000

DEFENDANT Green Sky Labs Inc 245-1627 Fort St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Lamb, Thomas CLAIM $ 18,944

DEFENDANT Maplewood Properties Ltd 210-3260 Norwell Dr, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Opus Engineering Ltd CLAIM $ 25,171

DEFENDANT Island Water Hauling Inc PO BOX 120, Cedar, BC PLAINTIFF Coast Outdoor Advertising Ltd CLAIM $ 15,357

DEFENDANT Oceanside Kitchen and Bath Corp 1130 Fair Rd, Parksville, BC PLAINTIFF Schnirer, Otto Joseph CLAIM $ 11,341

DEFENDANT Islands West Manufacturers Ltd 4247 Dieppe Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Wood, Ronald Clement CLAIM $ 25,156

DEFENDANT Pacific Bulldog Construction Ltd PO Box 939, Sooke, BC PLAINTIFF Slegg Building Materials Ltd CLAIM $ 42,476

DEFENDANT Gaslight Heat Services Ltd 10293 Sparling Pl, Sidney, BC PLAINTIFF Chaturvedi, Mahesh CLAIM $ 12,895

DEFENDANT Jubilee Self Storage Ltd 311 Cottonwood Dr, Campbell River, BC PLAINTIFF CR Metal Fabricators Ltd CLAIM $ 6,497

DEFENDANT Parkside Hotel & Spa Ltd 402-707 Fort St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Rowland, Deirdre Anne CLAIM $ 25,216

DEFENDANT GP Systems Limited 300-736 Broughton St, Victoria, BC

DEFENDANT Kareco Holdings Inc 3538 Promenade Cres, Victoria, BC

DEFENDANT Re Nu It Home Improvements 260 Willemar Ave, Courtenay, BC PLAINTIFF

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49 McCooey, Rose CLAIM $ 25,256 DEFENDANT Saanich Peninsula Realty Ltd 9830 4th St, Sidney, BC PLAINTIFF Prices Alarm Systems (2009) Ltd CLAIM $ 8,574 DEFENDANT Stepping Stone Therapy Inc 3388b Tennyson Ave, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Craig, Natasha CLAIM $ 22,876 DEFENDANT Vancouver Island Running Company Inc 420-880 Douglas St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF GWL Realty Advisors Inc CLAIM $ 13,349

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS

JULY 2016

St. Joseph’s General Hospital is pleased to announce that Heather Shivas is the co-recipient of the UBC 2016 Practice Educator of the Year Award for Pharmacy 489 - Institutional.

NORTH ISLAND Echo Bay’s The Paddlers’ Inn, owned by Bruce and Josee McMorran, has been awarded a Green Tourism Award by GreenStep Solutions. K’awat’si Economic Development Corporation has been nominated for the 2016 BC Aboriginal Business Awards in the Community-owned Business of the Year category, notes Chief Executive Officer Conrad Browne. The pub in the Glen Lyon Hotel location in Port Hardy is now called Taskers. Marine Harvest Canada has been recognized for their sponsorship and training of tradespeople by the Industry Training Authority. North Island College is offering its first Lego robotics camp for to up to 200 elementary school students across the North Island this summer, thanks to a $42,000 grant from the Canadian Internet Registration Authority. Through this program, students learn vital science, technology engineering and math (STEM) skills required for many future careers. The Port Hardy Public Library’s official re-opening ceremony was held on June 11 following renovations. OrcaFest 2016, hosted in Port McNeill August 19-21, will be expanding the duration of the festival to last three days.

CAMPBELL RIVER MNP welcomes Rachelle Burt as their new partner. Rachelle has more than 15 years of experience delivering advisory and operational accounting support services focusing on aboriginal and forestry services. The Cottage Clothing Co. has opened its doors at 914 Island Highway.

Diane Baldwin is pleased to note that her Scrapbook Central business is celebrating its 10 th anniversary. The outlet is on 14 th Street in Courtenay. The Tackle Shack held its grand opening recently at Pacific Playgrounds. Merit Home Furniture is celebrating their grand re-opening following the completion of their expansion and renovation. Bill Howich Chrysler RV & Marine welcomes new sales manager Darren Irving, RV & Marine Manager Dave Healy and sales team members John Owens and Tyler Spiers. Todd Chilton has joined the management team at Tyee Chevrolet Buick GMC at 570-13 th Avenue. Capri Tennant has joined the team of professionals at Septen Financial Ltd. Jason Tchir is the new pro at Quadra Golf Course. Campbell River has been selected as one of five communities across BC to be the home of an accessible, youth-friendly, multiservice storefront for young people aged 12-24. The centre will be situated in John Howard’s 10th Avenue building, which will undergo extensive renovations in preparation for its opening. Strathcona Toyota is currently undergoing expansion and renovations at their North Island Highway location. All departments will be open for the duration of the project. Colleen Hogg, owner of People’s Drug Mart on Quadra Island, has been named winner of the B.C. Pharmacy Association’s Excellence in Practice Award for this year.

Tyee Plaza owners have made application to the city so that they can build a mixed- use building near Spirit Square.

COMOX VALLEY The Comox Valley Small Business Association, now in its 18th year, announces its 2016-17 board of directors is: Janet Martyn president, Lori Ball vice-president, Maria Dann treasurer, Elva Murdoch secretary, Kathy Sekulich responsible for social, Ed Martyn is in charge of programming, Marie Kalawa for the newsletter and Facebook, and Heather Thompson for membership. The association presented Ed Martyn, owner of Thrive, with the Lawrence Belfrage Memorial Award at the organization’s June awards reception. The Bayside Cafe recently celebrated their grand opening on June 25th. They are located at 5-2760 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay. ThermoTec Mechanical Ltd. is celebrating their 10th anniversary in the Comox Valley. Rice Toyota Courtenay is pleased to welcome Morgan Davis to their team of professionals. Morgan brings over 12 years of Finance Experience in the Automotive Business specializing in Credit Rehabilitation and Specialized Finance. Congratulations to Island Honda at 1025 Comox Road in Courtenay for marking their 30 th anniversary in business.

Congratulations The Wine Cottage owners Lyle and Pamela Brodie on celebrating their 20th anniversary, and for winning two gold and two silver medals at the 2016 Wine Maker International Amateur Wine Competition.

Cumberland Dental Centre welcomes Dr. Ben Kim to their team of dentists, while Dr. Sukhman Sidhu joins the team at Comox Avenue Dental.

St. Joseph’s General Hospital Foundation is changing their name to Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation.

Comox Valley Airport reported a 10 per cent jump in passenger numbers for last year, bringing them to an all-time high of 351,520 in 2015, notes CEO Fred Bigelow.

With only one other Island community taking higher billing (Saanich) the town of Comox received its second top-100 ranking in a row in the annual MoneySense list of Canada’s Best Places to Live.

Dr. Sadhana Kulkarni has joined the team at North Island Eye Centre, and she is replacing the retiring Dr. Elizabeth Cornock. Sadhana joins Dr. Glen Hoar at the practice at 201-1771 Comox Avenue in Comox.

Bush and Company Trial Lawyers have moved to a new location at 860 Cliffe Avenue, Courtenay.

Patrick Yaton has opened TidySum Financial Planning in The Hub at C-357 Fourth Street in Courtenay.

A tip of the hat to Tree Island Yogurt for capturing a Silver Award for Product of the Year at the recent FoodProWest 2016 Awards Gala. Merissa Myles and her husband Scott DiGuistini are co-owners of the company. The Cornerstone Café & Taphouse is a new business at the corner of 5th Street and Cliffe Avenue in Courtenay. Congratulations to Jan Vandenbiggelaar for topping the sales charts at Finneron Hyundai, and for Malinda Mazzocchi for doing the same at Brian McLean Chevrolet Buick GMC. Dunsmuir Medical Clinic is pleased to welcome Dr. Stephen Fox to their medical team. Dr. Fox is a General Practitioner with an interest in pediatrics, internal medicine and palliative care.

PARKSVILLEQUALICUM Close to You in Parksville is celebrating their 25th anniversary. Alcove Homegrown Living is now open in Qualicum Beach at 689 Memorial Avenue. The Shoe Inn has moved to a new location on the corner of Memorial and Second avenues. Morningstar International Golf Course has added new “short course” tees. Tourism in Parksville-Qualicum is shaping up to be more promising than in 2015. The numbers available from the first four

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months of the year show occupancy rates at hotels, motels, etc. were up 13 per cent from 2015 and the all-important revenue per available room stat shows a 37 per cent increase according to the Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism Association.

PORT ALBERNI Brian Francis has opened Alberni Gear and Tackle in the former Anker Electric building on Bute Street at Fifth Avenue. The Twisted Spoon is now open in the Howard Johnson Hotel on Beaver Creek Road. The food outlet owned and operated by Chef Art Nesbitt.  Berks Intertruck is celebrating their 45th year in business. They are located at 4147 6th Avenue, Port Alberni.

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Jeremy Brown’s new business, Pro Active Industries, is a boat restoration and repair company at the corner of Bute Street and 4 th Avenue.

Long-time Port Alberni boat enthusiast Bob Cole has donated close to a dozen outboard motors for the summer to the Maritime Discovery Centre. Bob formerly owned the Port Boat House. RE/MAX Mid-Island Realty welcomes Darin Oscienny to their real estate team.

Tofino Co-op welcomes Chelsea Bauer as their new Human Resource and Safety Manager.

Website: www.ﬁnelinemarking.com

The former Jensen Florist building at 1001808 Bowen Road is being changed over to become a Fresh Slice Pizza outlet. Marion Kliment has joined the team at Imagine Cruise & Travel at 2834 Norwell Drive. Joe Lefeudo is back in the car business, having joined the sales team at Harris Mazda at 2525 Bowen Road.

Naturopathic Doctor John Yim has moved his office to Bowen Road on July 1, in the former Joyce Smith office.

The West Coast Multiplex Society is targeting 2017 to start construction on a skating rink that would be the first phase of the West Coast’s multiplex project. The multiplex is expected to eventually include a swimming pool and fitness centre.

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The Nuu-Cha-Nulth Seafood Development Corporation has purchased St. Jean’s Cannery.

Love & Inity recently opened next to the Blue Door Cafe, in the former Ecuador and More location in Harbour Quay. Carla Jean is the owner.

TOFINOUCLUELET

Phone:

The Kamloops Blazers ownership group have announced that Don Moores has been named the hockey club’s President, Chief Operating Officer and Alternate Governor. Moores, who was born and raised in Kamloops, will have full autonomy over the business operations of the Kamloops Blazers. Since 2008, he has been the Co-Owner and General Manager of Maximum Yield Publications, based in Nanaimo.

Bennefield Construction Ltd. is building eight townhouses at 540 Franklyn Street.

Leaf Compassion Cannabis Dispensary officially opened its doors for business.

Email: Info@FinelineMarking.com

NANAIMO

The City of Port Alberni has officially hired Krista Tremblay as their new manager of human resources. Tremblay spent the past 16 years working for Catalyst Paper’s Port Alberni mill.

AV Financial is celebrating their 20th anniversary this year. As part of celebrating the landmark, the company has undergone a rebrand. Certified financial planner Aaron Vissia is the owner of the business, on Johnston Road.

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JULY 2016

Jamie’s Whaling Station has purchased the Chinook Princess fishing vessel from Oak Bay Marine Group. The vessel will operate out of Ucluelet and replace the Lady Selkirk, which moved over to the company’s Tofino operation in March. The covered cruiser has capacity for 22 people and will deliver up to three tours per day until the season ends in October.

APAC Investigations has opened at 1-5148 Metral Drive.

Hired Guns Creative has moved to 41 Chapel Street, Tanya Gruszecki has reopened My Favourite Fabric Store on Wesley Street, and Cindi Cameron has moved her Luscious Me Clothing to Fitzwilliam Street. All three were tenants in the former Jean Burns building that suffered a major fire recently. Classic Care Cleaning Services owner Lorne Roelofsen has purchased the property at 1920 Northfield Road from Wenner Electric. Former New York Pizza owner Pete Maltesen is now working in sales for Haarsma Waste Innovations. The former Namul restaurant location at the top of Rutherford Road is going to be called the Thai Orchid. David LeNeveu has opened Leneveu Legacy Financial Inc. which offers financial planning and investments, sharing space with CF Financial at 101-5180 Dublin Way. David is now also a minority owner of the Nanaimo Clippers of the BC Hockey League. He is a former Clipper goalie who played in the National Hockey League. Francine Baker is the new owner of The Buzz Coffee Shop on Dufferin Crescent, purchasing the business from Scott Henderson. Locar Construction is currently doing the site preparations for a new 22 lot subdivision on Hidden Hills Drive. Nanaimo Nissan Dealer Principal Jim Revenberg is opening a Duncan Nissan dealership this summer. This will be the fourth dealership for the Revy Auto Group, which also includes Comox Valley Nissan

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS

JULY 2016

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the corner of the Island Highway and Cedar Road will be called Chacalaka Bar & Grill. Pannyota Giannikos is the owner.

and Sunwest Volkswagen. Isabella’s is a new vanity and accessories business at 5-2330 McCullough Road. Lurine Rapuso Counselling and Family Therapy is now open at 305-477 Wallace Street. The coffee shop opening in the former location of Paliana’s in Nanaimo North Town Centre will be called Sugar Beans, owned by Tom Bishop. Cliff Freeman has left the Carlson Construction Group, and is being replaced by Dennis Stolz. The Dover House senior care facility near Hammond Bay Road is expanding with a new 33 unit building. Sushi To Go is going into a new location at 50 Tenth Street

New businesses in Ladysmith include Susan Wheeler’s Green Design at 559 Gourmeaux Crescent, a national design award recipient; Gary McLellan Plumbing & Heating at 30-658 Alderwood Drive; Mark Brierley’s new John Sawyers Wood Shop at 13231 Island Highway, where they make tables and chairs from old tree stumps. Daphne Carlyle has earned the prestigious Yousuf Karsh Lifetime Achievement Award by the Professional Photographers of Canada. The Chemainus & District Chamber of Commerce welcomes their newest Executive Director, Lori Frankson.

COWICHAN VALLEY

Island Mediquip is moving to 2258 Dorman Road.

Buckerfield’s is getting a new head office, which will be located behind their store in Duncan. The Duncan-based company currently has eight locations across the province.

Darryl Saam has a new business titled Discovery Inspections at -5144 Metral Drive. Nanaimo’s new BC SPCA building opened their new building this past month at 154 Westwood Lake Road. The state-of-theart, $3.4 million Nanaimo and District Community Animal Centre was built by Island West Coast Developments, and is viewed as the development model for the B.C SPCA’s province wide $58-million facilities upgrade program. Nanaimo British Club celebrates their 30th year in the community this month. To mark its anniversary the club held a street party style celebration at the Wellington Royal Canadian Legion. The Directors of Royal LePage Nanaimo Realty are pleased to announce the addition of Neil Aldridge to their Royal Services Group.

LADYSMITHCHEMAINUS An Esso gas station and a Tim Horton’s outlet will be joining Microtel and Ladysmith & District Credit Union at Chemainus First Nations’ New Town just north of Ladysmith, as part of the new Oyster Bay Developments project. The long-anticipated Holland Creek residential subdivision in Ladysmith has finally received third reading from Ladysmith Council. Fourth reading is final approval of the development, which will include 610 dwelling units on 140 acres. Negotiations began in 2012. The former location of Gryphon’s Lair, and long before that, the Omega Restaurant, at

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Riot Brewing, a microbrewery based in Chemainus will be open as of this summer with five types of beer to offer.

Industrial Plastics is adding a storage room and expanding its office space at 2052 Boxwood Road.

Bosley’s pet supplies in north Nanaimo is expanding by almost doubling their space, with the addition expected to be completed this summer.

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Schnitzer Steel will be vacating their yard in Duncan, which will be taken over by Coast Environmental.

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BC Tourism Cowichan Society has awarded Taiji Brand Group of Maple Bay the contract to develop a brand strategy to enhance Cowichan’s tourism offering. Destination BC granted TCS $138,000 for destination marketing funding. Congratulations to Station Street Eyecare on celebrating their grand opening. The much anticipated commercial development proposed for Berkey’s Corner has finally been given the green light to proceed by the Municipality of North Cowichan.

Custom Builds

For the second year in a row, Duncan’s Jacquie Gordon’s Bed & Breakfast has been awarded a Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor. The award celebrates excellence in hospitality and is given only to establishments that consistently achieve glowing reviews by their guests on TripAdvisor. Discovery Honda welcomes Lloyd Jones to their team. Lloyd comes from Campus Honda.

Spec Homes

On June 6, the Vancouver Island Motorsport Circuit on the highway to Lake Cowichan celebrated their grand opening. Duncan’s Red Arrow Brewery took home awards at the prestigious 14th annual Canadian Brewing Awards ceremony held in Vancouver. The brewery’s Pigmy Pale Ale won a bronze award in the English-Style Pale Ale category, and a second bronze for its Midnite Amber Ale in the NorthAmerican Style Amber Lager category. Sotheby’s International Realty are pleased to welcome Constantin Popa and Mariana Popa.

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OPINION

JULY 2016 A division of Invest Northwest Publishing Ltd. Vancouver Island Office 25 Cavan Street,Nanaimo, BC V9R 2T9 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 | Shawn Bishop – shawn@businessexaminer.ca, Josh Higgins – josh@businessexaminer.ca, Joanne Iormetti – joanne@businessexaminer.ca WRITERS | Julia MacDonald, John MacDonald, Beth Hendry-Yim, David Holmes, Linda Wenger WEBSITE | John MacDonald – john@businessexaminer.ca

EVERYONE BENEFITS WITH FREE TRADE – ESPECIALLY CANADIANS What free trade agreements are all about is enhancing trade opportunities between countries, pri ma ri ly th rough the elimination of MARK MACDONALD

tariffs

satisfied a nd a ha nd fu l sti l l unhappy. We were then given one more chance to trade before the final vote was tabulated. O n ly one p erson wa s s t i l l unhappy, with the caveat she didn’t like the restaurant card she had, although her family certainly would. Everyone else rated the cards they held in their hand as a 10. One of the moderators then declared: With free trade, everybody wins. Those participating couldn’t deny what they just witnessed firsthand themselves. Obviously, that’s a test-tube sized sample, but as a country, Canada has certainly seen the benefits of free trade. Our economy has grown substantially since the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) was implemented in 1993. There will always be naysayers against free trade agreements, m a i n ly f rom protect ion i sts that believe if we put walls up

hen people trade freely, every one ends up happy. Here’s an example that demonstrates this perfectly. Recently I attended an econom ics workshop featu ri ng jou r n a l i sts f rom across t he country. In one segment, each person was randomly given a $15 gift certificate. T he g i f t cer t i f ic ates were from a variety of outlets: Coffee shops, restaurants, clothing and department stores. Attendees were then asked to grade their level of satisfaction with what they had received from 1-10: 1 being least satisfied and 10 being most. Most of the two dozen participants were dissatisfied with their cards, and very few were totally pleased, so we were invited to trade with whomever we wanted in the room. After that round, another survey was taken. This time, three quarters of the people were very

around our country, then we’ll be a prosperous, self-sustaining economy. Nothing could be further from the truth. Perhaps the most vivid example of protectionism on a national scale is North Korea – and this was pointed out numerous times during the seminar. Poverty and scarcity across the board, in all sectors, are the norm under h e av y-h a nd e d tot a l it a r i a n governments. What free trade agreements are all about is enhancing trade opportunities between countries, primarily through the elimination of tariffs. To the layman, tariffs are really protectionist taxes designed to give home country businesses a competitive advantage, which also benefits government coffers. Canada’s participation in the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) was negotiated by the previous federal government under Prime Minister Stephen Harper, one of 43 free trade agreements signed by the Conservatives. TPP negotiations have been underway for years, and Canada agreed to terms before last fall’s election. The 12 countries involved in the TPP are: Brunei, Chile, New Zealand, Singapore, Australia, Canada, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Peru, the United States and Vietnam. The agreement needs to be officially ratified by the federal Liberal government, and it is expected that they will. To not do

so would invite certain economic peril, if only for the reason that those countries participating in the agreement would be advantaged, while those outside would be severely crippled by prohibitive tariffs which will affect the pricing of goods and services. During a recent presentation at the BC Shellfish & Seafood Festival in the Comox Valley, Trevor Paul, Manager of International Trade and Economic Relations for the province of BC, spelled out exactly how Canada will benefit from participation in the TPP. Paul was speaking of the aquaculture industry in particular, but this is a microcosm of economic benefits that would undoubtedly be enjoyed in other Canadian export sectors. For example, Japan has the world’s third largest economy, and is the second largest seafood importer in the world. Last year, they imported $87 million worth. With the TPP, 66 per cent of Japanese tariffs on Canadian se a fo o d w i l l b e el i m i n ate d immediately. That includes Atlantic salmon at 3.5 per cent, crab at 4 per cent, geoduck at 10 per cent, Pacific salmon 3.5 per cent and hake 6 per cent. Vietnam’s aquaculture imports have grown by an astonishing 2,000 per cent since 2011 to $77 million. Under TPP, 83 per cent of tariffs will be eliminated

for seafood. Ben Stewart, BC’s Special Representative in Asia (he was the MLA who stood down to allow Premier Christy Clark to run in a by-election in Westside-Kelowna, which she subsequently won), drove the point home regarding free trade agreements. Since implementation of Canada’s free trade agreement with South Korea, signed in 2014, Canadian seafood exports to South Korea have jumped an astonishing 74 per cent. Can we expect those types of increases across the board under the TPP? Not likely. However, when these tariffs/protectionist taxes are eliminated, it suddenly puts Canadian companies on an even level price-playing field with other nations. That, combined with the quality of our seafood and environmental practices, arguably gives our companies an edge in a competitive market. Free trade goes both ways, and Canadian companies will have to be their best to compete in these other markets. The opportu n ities for a less-popu lous country like Canada in larger markets far exceeds trade going the other way, as Canadian consumer opportunities are less in terms of numbers and therefore as a market. Nevertheless, with free trade, everyone ends up happy. Canadians should be happier than most.

VANCOUVER ISLAND MUNICIPALITIES TAKE LITTLE ACTION MAKING THE PROPERTY TAX SYSTEM FAIR FOR SMALL BUSINESS

CFIB RICHARD TRUSCOTT

n the lead up to the deadline for property tax payments, the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) released its tenth annual Property Tax Gap Report that reveals some Vancouver Island businesses pay

up to five times as much municipal property tax as a resident on the same assessed property value. The report analyzes the disparity between what residential and business property owners pay in taxes (based on the same assessed property value) for each municipality and scrutinizes their inclination to place a much larger tax burden on businesses. The ratio between business and residential rates is known as the property “tax gap” and is an indicator of tax fairness (not tax levels). This year’s report shows the tax gap grows as municipalities grow. The tax gap for the twenty largest municipalities in BC stood at 3.04 in 2015, compared to the provincial average of 2.60. And the worst tax gaps

were some of the most populous cities – Coquitlam (4.24), Vancouver (4.15) and Burnaby (3.98). “CFIB has long warned municipalities, as they grow, to resist the urge to over-burden small businesses. This report makes it crystal clear that there is still a large discrepancy between how small and large cities treat the local business community,” notes Richard Truscott, vice-president for BC and Alberta. On Vancouver Island, the average property tax gap in 2015 was 2.71, the second largest regional gap in the province and above the provincial average of 2.60. A tax gap of 2.71 means a commercial property owner pays over two and a half times the taxes of a residential property owner on the same assessed property value.

“Vancouver Island municipalities collectively made no progress in making their property tax systems more small business friendly between 2014 and 2015,” notes Richard Truscott, vice-president for BC and Alberta. “The region’s 2015 tax gap remains the same as 2014, a troubling finding when the region also maintains the second h i g h e s t a v e ra ge g a p i n t h e province.” Of the 37 municipalities in region, the least small business friendly municipality (i.e. the worst tax gap) in 2015 belonged to North Saanich at 4.83, followed by Lantzville at 4.00 and then Colwood at 3.95 (see table below). Conversely, Port Alberni had the most equitable gap at 1.63, then Port McNeill at 1.68

and Port Alice at 1.84. The two largest cities in the region, Victoria and Saanich, both have high tax gaps which increased in 2015. Victoria’s gap of 3.12 is up 3.4 per cent in 2015 from 2014, while Saanich is at 3.40 and up 1.6 per cent. “Mayors and councils need to ensure they are actively working on ensuring the property tax system is fairer for business. That takes real political will, which appears to be missing in the region at present,” Richard Truscott concluded. CFIB is Canada’s largest association of small- and medium-sized businesses with 109,000 members across every sector and region, including 10,000 in BC.

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LAW

JULY 2016

INFRINGEMENT INSURANCE There are two types of

LAW

infringement insurance,

Is it for you?

defensive policies to

mericans are reputed to be more litigious than the people of other nations, including Canada. A number of our firm’s clients have been involved in legal actions in the United States. These legal actions generally occurred when our client had com mercia l success, or was on the verge of hav i ng success, in the United States. In some of the lawsuits, our client was the defendant, that is, our client was being sued for patent infringement. For example, a client with a natural gas control product was ta k i ng substa ntia l busi ness away from a major company in the field. T he major compa ny sued the cl ient asserting infringement of a group of patents, including a claim for “convoyed” sales. “Convoyed” sales are sales of non-patented products (wire, tubing, etc.) s old a lon g w it h i n f r i n g i n g products, the thinking being that such convoyed sales would not have occurred except for the infringement. In other lawsuits, our client was the plaintiff, that is, our

protect you when you are sued and abatement policies to protect you when your intellectual property rights are infringed Michael Cooper and Doug Thompson of ThompsonCooper LLP cl ient wa s s u i n g for patent infringement. For example, a client in the field of non-destructive testing had patented tech nolog y for check i ng for gas leaks that used a non-toxic vapou r that ca rried a dye. When the client starting taking substantial business away f rom t he i ndu st r y leader i n gas leak detection technology, the industry leader copied the technology to avoid a further erosion of its ma rket sha re. This forced our client to bring legal proceedings in the United States to en force its patent rights. Our client spent well over a million dollars in legal fees before finally achieving

success in the litigation. However, in order to avoid a repetition of such an expense, the non-destructive testi ng client subsequently purchased a policy of infringement insurance. T here are two types of infringement insurance, defensive policies to protect you when you are sued and abatement policies to protect you when your intellectual property rights are infringed. The cost of the policies depends upon industry sector, gross revenues and other factors. There is generally a minimum 10per cent co-pay requirement. The important take away is that infringement insurance exists.

It is provided by specialized insurance companies and not by general commercial insurance companies. Since acquiring infringement insurance,

the non-destructive testi ng client has become involved in five U.S. patent lawsuits. They estimate that having the infringement insurance has saved them at least 2 million dollars. There is a further benefit in having infringement insurance. For example, not too long ago, we sent a “cease and desist” letter to an alleged infringer, and received a very aggressive and belligerent response. We notified the infringement insurance company. After receiving a letter from the infringement insurance company, the attitude of the alleged infringer changed completely. Presumably because the presence of infringement insurance demonstrated to the alleged infringer that our client had the financial backing to litigate the dispute, the alleged infringer got in touch with our office and the matter quickly settled. I f you r compa ny is hav i ng c o m m e rc i a l s u c c e s s i n t h e United States that is at least in part based on your intellectual property rights, or you are operating in a field in which other players have intellectual property rights, you may wish to review your circumstances to determine whether infringement insurance would be beneficial for you.

CFB Comox in the running for search and rescue training facility

OURTENAY – 19 Wing at CFB Comox is heavily involved in a strong push to have a Fixed Wing Search and Rescue program training facility, as the federal government is expected to decide on its permanent location before the end of the year. Team Spartan, led by Leonardo Aircraft, General Dynamics Missions Systems-Canada and DRS Technologies Canada, held a press conference June 22 at the Holiday Inn Express in Courtenay to unveil their proposal. If built, the facility would be comprised of 72,000 square feet of working space, and will employ around 30 full time workers. Winnipeg, Manitoba, Trenton, Ontario and Greenwood, Nova Scotia are the other three possible locations. “By putting this state-of-the-art training facility in Comox, Team Spartan will meet the needs of the Royal Canadian Air Force by co-locating with the rotary-wing search and rescue fleet that is already there,” says Steve Lucas, spokesman for Team Spartan. “It enables the Canadian Armed Forces to proceed toward a search and rescue centre of excellence in Comox.” The training centre and support system would be designed, built and delivered by a team of Canadian-based companies led by Team Spartan partner DRS Technologies Canada Ltd. It

GOT AN IDEA? From left: Comox Valley MLA Don McRae, Comox Mayor Paul Ives and Steve Lucas of Team Spartan will be designed to house the training aids and full flight simulator for the proven C-27J Spartan aircraft. ATCO Frontec of Calgary will be responsible for the design and construction of the new training centre. “DRS has a history of providing exceptional training solutions to all three elements of the Canadian Armed Forces,” says Steve Zuber, DRS v ice president a nd genera l manager. “Now we will be partnering with other respected Canadian companies to provide an exceptional end-to-end training solution for Royal Canadian Air Force aircrews and maintenance personnel.”

Comox Mayor Paul Ives, noted that the Comox Valley Economic Development Society got involved in this process several years ago, and announced that the Town of Comox will waive payment in lieu of taxes on the buildings, if they’re built, as part of their contribution to attract the facility. “We think Comox is really the only place in Canada this should be,” Ives adds. Potential bidding packages are expected to include many of the biggest names in aviation: Lockheed Martin, Cascade Aerospace, Airbus, Boeing, Bell Helicopter and Victoria-based Viking Air.

Let us help you protect it. Thompson Cooper is Victoria’s leading source for legal advice focused on intellectual property.

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