» ENGINEERING
–PAGE 11
AGS
NOVEMBER 2014 DUNCAN Buckerfield’s continually grows, changes and adapts to the times.
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Vancouver Island BC PAGE 40
PORT ALBERNI Van Isle Ford received Diamond Club Presidents Award at opening of new dealership.
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INDEX
News Update 2 Nanoose 4 Parksville 7 Nanaimo 8 West Coast 9 Parksville 20 Qualicum Beach 20 Port Alberni 21 Comox Valley 33 Campbell River 37 Cowichan Valley 38 Port McNeill 44 Who is Suing Whom 46 Movers and Shakers 47 Opinion 50 Law 51 Contact us: 1-866-758-2684
OUR 10TH YEAR
Farm raised salmon bringing wealth to BC Fish farming is a growing industry BY GOODY NIOSI
“There is a vast market in
T
Asia that we are currently
he economic impact of salmon farming on the West Coast is significant. Currently it is an $800 million industry, and Jeremy Dunn, executive director of the BC Salmon Farmers Association (BCSFA) said it could easily rise to over $1 billion in the next five years. Salmon farms also put people to work on Vancouver Island. The BCFSA has social and economic partnerships with 17 First Nations. Very importantly, Dunn said, the fish farms are being operated to world-class standards. “We make our decisions on management based on science. Our members are all third party certified and our growers of Atlantic salmon who have the best aquaculture practices certification have now committed to a global leading position to have the Aquaculture Stewardship Council certification by 2020. This is the most stringent third party certification in the food
industry that BC can look at as a true growth industry.” JEREMY DUNN EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, BC SALMON FARMERS ASSOCIATION
business.” He added that wild salmon stocks have always run in cycles, even long before the first fish farm appeared on the West Coast. In fact, this year is seeing a record sockeye run and a near-record pink salmon run. About 80% of BC farmed salmon is exported to the United States; salmon is now the number two seafood consumed in the US, SEE FARM RAISED SALMON | PAGE 43
Jeremy Dunn says that salmon farming has a $1 billion plus potential for the BC economy
COMOX
Tailings Pond at Mount Washington holds mineral wealth North Bay Resources has information for potential future development BY GOODY NIOSI
Canadian Publications Mail Acct.: 40069240
not serving. This is an
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ancouver Island has untapped mineral potential just beneath the ground. So says Jacques Houle of Jacques Ho u le M i nera l E x plorat ion
Consulting, a geologist who has a 35-year career history, working out of Nanaimo since 2000. Initially he worked with the BC government, setting up his own practice in 2003 to consult with mining companies across
Canada. One of his most recent assignments, saw him working with North Bay Resources, headquartered in Pennsylvania, to explore the potential of an old mine site at Mount Washington for which
it holds mineral claims. North Bay Resources is seeking $1 million from investors to get a better handle on the extinct volcano’s hidden worth in a variety SEE TAILINGS POND AT MOUNT | PAGE 31
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NEWS UPDATE
NANAIMO Brownsfield Redevelopment Project wins national award
NANAIMO Helijet Laying Groundwork To Launch Nanaimo And Vancouver Helijet has begun the process of establishing scheduled helicopter service between its downtown Vancouver Heliport and Nanaimo’s Cruise Ship Centre facility, utilizing its fleet of familiar 12-passenger, twin engine, two-pilot Sikorsky helicopters. In recognition of a growing demand for fast, convenient air service between the two centres, especially for business travelers and commuters, Helijet plans to offer up to seven return flights daily Monday through Friday during the busy fall and winter seasons, when its air services are typically in high demand. Helijet will offer the fastest, most efficient and reliable air travel available between the two business centres, with
AGS
T he Downtown Nanaimo Business Improvement Association and participating property owners have won a National Brownie Award from the Canadian Urban Institute for the Terminal Avenue Brownfield Redevelopment Project. The Project, led by the DNBIA’s Planning, Design and Development Committee Chair, Darren Moss won in Category 6, Reach Out: Communications, Marketing and Public Engagement. The project saw more than 80 landowners collaborate with the BC government to undertake environmental, planning and design studies resulting in intensification and revitalization of the transportation corridor through downtown. The 2014 conference and awards were held on Wednesday October 29th in Toronto. The Canadian Urban Institute (CUI) Brownie Awards theme for this year’s event is Regenerate: Recognizing the impact of Brownsfields redevelopment in city building. The CUI Brownie Awards program was established in 2001 and recognizes leadership, innovation and environmental sustainability in Brownfields redevelopment and regeneration across Canada. In 2012, the DNBIA’s Planning Design and Development Committee proposed the 4 phase Terminal Avenue Brownfield Redevelopment Project to the DNBIA Board of Directors, which would begin the process of removing some of the barriers of development in the area.
The first phase of the project, to determine what type of contamination the area shared, required the collaboration of 80 landowners and was awarded a Provincial Brownfield Grant of $217,000, the largest award given in the Province that year. The outcome of phase 1 was the issuance of an Area-Wide determination for the corridor, facilitating potential development and reducing necessary environmental testing. The project has now moved ahead to phase 2 of the project, a Drinking Water Exemption Appl ication, wh ich w i l l significantly reduce the requirements necessary to meet provincial environmental standards when redeveloping in the corridor.
NOVEMBER 2014
flights taking just 18 minutes each way, day or night. In addition, Helijet will offer complimentary all-day vehicle parking for its Nanaimo passengers, as it does at all of its passenger terminals. Complimentary ground shuttle service to downtown locations will also be available, along with 15 minute prior-to-boarding check-in service, complimented with food and beverage service. “We’ve identified launching a new route between Nanaimo and Vancouver as a priority for us, and we’re working through all of the many planning, logistical, and operational matters that go with setting up an entirely new route like this,” says Helijet President and CEO Danny Sitnam. “As for when we’ll launch our inaugural flights, the timeline’s still a bit fluid, and depends entirely on how quickly all of the approvals and groundwork can come together. Best-case scenario, we could start as soon as this Winter, although a lot of work has yet to be completed, so an exact start-up date will be forthcoming.”
NANAIMO
Point operation. “We a re very excited to have A BC Recycling choose Nanaimo for its new expansion and operation” says Bernie Dumas, President and CEO of the Nanaimo Port Authority. “Sustainable economic benefits will be achieved for Vancouver Island, the City of Nanaimo and the Nanaimo Port Authority through incremental job creation and additional cargo throughput on barges and deep sea vessels.” ABC Recycling Ltd. is a Canadian family enterprise with a 102 year heritage serving and supporting local communities through the recovery, processing and recycling of scrap metal. “Our business has evolved over the past century and continues to grow in local and emerging markets globally. We continually invest tremendous time and resources in creating partnerships within the communities where we conduct business. The Nanaimo Port Authority’s Duke Point Terminal serves as an ideal logistics gateway to the global recycling market,” says CEO David Yochlowitz The Nanaimo Port Authority is one of 18 Port Authority’s across Canada, established under the Canada Marine Act, to promote and support the National, Regional and local economy and to ensure a safe and secure harbour for cargo operations.
BC Major Tenant Announced at Duke Point Terminal Nanaimo Port Authority announced the arrival of ABC Recycling Ltd. to its Duke
Credit card fee reduction imminent CFIB is pleased to see industry-led
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NEWS UPDATE
NOVEMBER 2014
solution to rising fees. With reports suggesting an imminent announcement on reductions to the credit card “swipe fees” charged to merchants, the Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses (CFIB) is pleased that relief is on the horizon for small firms. “CFIB is encouraged that it appears we have an industry-led solution to this critical issue,” said CFIB president Dan Kelly. “We have been working closely with government and all major players in the payments industry, and it appears this work will soon pay off. We hope these changes will bring about an end to the ‘arms race’ of ever-higher tiers of premium cards.” Small merchants have long expressed concerns about credit card processing fees, which add $5-7 billion to the cost of everything Canadians buy (1.5-3% of the purchase). For a full list of the fees associated with all major credit cards in Canada, go to cfib.ca/ a3162e.
COMOX VALLEY Comox Valley “The Best of the Best” The Economic Developers Association of Canada (EDAC) is Canada’s national association
of economic development professionals, representing every province and territories across Canada with 1,000 members. The Association recognizes that marketing a community is an integral part of the economic development profession, therefore provides The Marketing Canada Awards competition as an opportunity to exchange and review promotional literature and other marketing material produced by municipalities across the country. This awards program is open to those organizations that undertake to promote and market Canadian provinces, territories, regions, cities, towns and areas with a view to improving the economic well-being of Canadians. Comox Valley Economic Development & Tourism during the Economic Developers Association of Canada’s 46th. National Conference, was recognized with an award for its Promotiona l Event “Wi nter Bites” submission to the “2014 Marketing Canada Awards.” This year’s awards program, consisting of twelve (12) sub-categories, attracted one hundred and fifty (150) submissions from across Canada. “We are very proud to receive the P romotion Event Awa rd from EDAC for WinterBites,” said Richard Hardy, President, Comox Valley Economic Development, “It was tremendous partners like Vancouver Island
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Music Fest, Mount Washington Alpine Resort, the City of Courtenay, Comox Valley Minor Hockey, Courtenay accommodation properties and others, who truly made the event the success it was. This award is for them and the numerous businesses, groups and volunteers who supported this inaugural festival.”
COMOX VALLEY Seasonal flights to Mexico underway at YQQ The Comox Valley Airport now offers non-stop service to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico for another winter season. The first Mexico bound passengers departed from YQQ on Saturday, November 1 for sun, fun and sand onboard WestJet. Flights will continue each Saturday until May 2, 2015. “Last year more than 5,400 guests took advantage of this non-stop service to Mexico,” explained Comox Valley Airport CEO, Fred Bigelow. “This is the perfect option for residents who are seeking a quick getaway to somewhere sunny without any travel hassles. In just under five hours after taking off at YQQ, you could be taxiing into the gate at Puerto Vallarta and ready to hit the beach.” To reach the same destination on the same day, starting from Vancouver International Airport (Y VR), would add an additional five hours of travel time, plus an overnight stay in a hotel due to ferry schedules. The Comox Valley Airport has been working hard through its latest advertising campaign to remind North Island residents to do the math before booking a trip from another airport this winter. “It is easy to get enticed by a lower air fare on the mainland,” explained Bigelow. “But before you book that ticket, do the math and make sure you are taking into account the real cost of your trip including: gas, ferry, hotel and your time.”
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NANOOSE
NOVEMBER 2014
Fairwinds for sale Mega project is on the market BY GOODY NIOSI
F
airwinds is for sale. Less than three months after plans for a $2.3 billion development in the area received final approva l, the Na noose mega-project is up for grabs. Victoria-based property owner B.C. Investment Management Corporation (bcIMC) confirmed its intention to sell Fairwinds in mid-October. The resort community includes the Fairwinds Golf Club, Schooner Cove Marina, a fitness centre, more than 750 homes and approved plans to construct up to 2,000 more in phases. Previous estimates have predicted that the development plans could bring more than 10,000 people to Nanoose Bay, which had a 2011 population of approximately 5,674. In an email, a spokeswoman for bcIMC stated, “As a long-term investor, bcIMC reviews our investments as a normal course of business. We act in the best financial interests of our clients and are responsible for growing the long-term financial value of our clients’ funds. The sale process is underway so bcIMC cannot comment further during the process.”
“This really is a good opportunity for people or groups looking to invest in the island. It’s a premium property.” CHARLIE PARKER OWNER, REMAX OF NANAIMO
Fairwinds, a mega project in Nanoose is up for sale The Regional District of Nanaimo adopted zoning, utilities and development agreement bylaws for the property’s two neighbourhood plans on July 22. G eorge Holme, Na n a i mo Reg ion a l Dist r ict d i rector electoral area E said news of bcI MC’s i ntention to sel l wasn’t really surprising. He received a ca l l from Russell
Tibbles, Bentall Kennedy’s vice president for development and operations at Fairwinds to tell him the project was going up for sale. “It just seems to be the way these days,” he said. “There’s a lot of Asian money coming in this country and I think it will probably go that way.” He added that the only thing that surprised
him was that the announcement came so soon after all the work and money that went into rezoning. He also pointed out that for staff at Fairwinds and residents of t he complex not h i ng has changed. “It’s business as usual,” he said. “I guess the only thing that’s going to change is the ownership.”
Charlie Parker, owner of Remax of Nanaimo, said there is terrific potential at Fairwinds. “World class properties attract world class buyers. This is a good opportunity. There is a lot of investment in the area, including foreign investment. This really is a good opportunity for people or groups looking to invest in the island. It’s a premium property.”
VANCOUVER ISLAND
NOVEMBER 2014
$2M endowment if merger happens
V
a nc o uver I s l a nd and Gulf Island communities w i l l have a new sou rce of mu ch-ne e d e d c ommunity support through the merger of First West Credit Union and Island Savings. An endowment of $2 million will be established and managed w i t h i n t h e F i rs t We s t Fou nd at ion nex t ye a r, with funds granted from the endowment benefiti ng loca l cha r it ies a nd i n itiatives i n the communities that Island Savings serves. “First West is absolutely committed to the growth and prosperity of communities on Vancouver I sl a nd a nd t he Sout hern Gu lf Isla nds,” says Launi Skinner, CEO of First West Credit Union. “Through the creation of the Island Savings Community Endowment—the largest contribution into the First West Foundation to date—we are reinforci ng t h at we a re ded icated to acting local and emp ower i ng I sl a nders to make even more community investment decisions locally.”
T he Fi rst West Fou ndation is the charitable arm of First West Credit Union, with nearly $11 m i l l ion i n endow ment funds. Originally founded in 1996, the First West Fou nd at ion welc ome d Valley First in 2010 and establ i shed t he Va l ley First Community Endowment with $1 million in funding. In March 2013, t he E nderby Fi n a nci a l Community Endowment was established w ith $500,000 in funding. In 2014, the Foundation expects to have granted more t h a n $ 465,000— approximately $100,000 more than last year—to 118 projects i n 25 communities served by Valley First, Enderby & District Financial a nd Envision Financial. The Foundation also specializes in the management of legacy funds that benefit specific community causes and organizations. To date, seven legacy funds reside within the Foundation, i nclud i ng t he recent ly added Peter Bell Legacy Fund, which supports the community of Enderby. Gra nts from the Fi rst
We s t Fo u n d a t i o n w i l l generate funding for Island communities above a nd beyond ongoi ng community investment activities and non-profit relationships already e s t a bl i s h e d i n t h e region—partnerships that saw Island Savings invest $562,000 back into Island neighbourhoods in 2013. “T h i s I sl a nd Sav i ngs endow ment w ith i n the Fi rst West Fou nd at ion will provide support in addition to our Growing Island Families Together prog ra m,” says Rod Dewar, I sl a nd Sav i ngs CEO. “This much-needed funding from the endowment complements perfectly the important work we already do for families in our communities each year, taking our ability to give back to another level.” Though the creation of a substantial endowment was reviewed early on in merger discussions, the activation of the endowment itself is pending the outc ome of t he I sl a nd Savings member vote on the proposed merger with First West Credit Union.
MONK OFFICE: DESIGNING SPACES Compnay does it all: from interior design to technology
M
onk Office interiors, a division of Monk Office Supply Ltd., is the onestop solution for complete office design. With two staff designers to draw on, clients can configure the office that is right for them and provide a space where staff can maximize their productivity. “We offer space planning services for clients who are purchasing furniture or walls,” said interior designer Kirsten Cluett. “We also offer a la carte space planning – you don’t necessarily have to buy furniture from us.” She added that the designers work carefully to the client’s budget and also offer project management services. Monk Office Interiors is the distribution partner for DIRTT Environmental Solutions, a Calgary company that builds leading edge modular walls that can embed televisions and communication networking. “We determine the client’s needs and what services they might require,” Cluett said. “We like to educate them on the type
of furniture that we have and on the modular walls. Every business is so different. Ultimately we want to make sure their workers are the most productive they can be.” She added that recently Monk’s main copy centre, which is in the same building as the Office Interiors division, acquired a large format printer, which allows the designers to print out 24x36 plans, making the plans easy to read and mark up for the designers, architects and clients. “We can print off a big piece of paper and make changes on the fly much easier,” Cluett said. “We can look at elevations and really walk them through the space.” She said that the big advantage clients have in working with Monk Office is its broad range of services. Along with office supplies, interiors and furniture, the company also provides the technology and networking – every detail a company needs, right down to its stationery. “We can outfit the entire office,” Cluett said. “We’re here to make everything easier for our clients.” Monk Office Interiors is at 3335 Oak Street in Victoria. Monk Office Supply Ltd. is at 800 Viewfield Rd. in Victoria. www.monk.ca
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REAL ESTATE
NOVEMBER 2014
VANCOUVER ISLAND
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Steady Growth and Lower Inventory Levels Placing Upward Pressure on Housing Prices
S
ales activity throughout the VIREB coverage area in October 2014 was down slightly from September, but sti l l sig n i fica ntly h ig her tha n October of last year, resulting in our strongest October since 2009. Although the higher sales posted this October are encouraging, sales l a s t f a l l w e re w e a k b y comparison. As a result, balanced market conditions continue, which is good news for both buyers and sellers. V IR EB President Blair Herbert is encouraged by the numbers and reports that realtors in the VIREB coverage area are consistently busy. “October sales indicate that our market remains balanced,” says Herbert. “But as the year draws to a close, we’re seeing lower i nventor y levels a nd housi ng sa les sitti ng at 15% higher than this time l a st ye a r, wh ich i s b eginning to place upward pressure on the market.”
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A to t a l of 4 01 s i ngle-family homes sold on the MLS system in October 2014. This represents a 1.25% decrease from the 406 sa les recorded last month and a 15% increase from this time last year. Inventory levels are lower t h a n l a st ye a r, w it h active listings down approximately five per cent. BCR EA’s ch ief economist, Cameron Muir, reports that a lthough job growth isn’t as strong as hoped, consumer spendi n g i s on t he up s w i n g, which indicates optimism rega rd i ng the economy and has a positive effect on home sales. “We’re seeing continued e c onom ic g row t h ye a r over year, but do expect t h a t ra te o f g ro w t h to re l a x s om e wh at i n t h e c om i n g m ont h s,” s ay s M u i r. “ H o w e v e r, w e nevertheless expect balanced market conditions in line with inf lation to continue into 2015.” I n O c to b e r 2 01 4 , t h e bench ma rk price of a
s i n g le-fa m i ly hom e i n the VIREB coverage area w a s $ 3 17,9 0 0. B e n c hmark pricing tracks the va lue of a ty pica l home in the reported area. The avera ge pr ic e of a si ng l e -f a m i l y h o m e w a s $3 4 9, 2 70, a n i n c re a s e of six per cent over this time last year. The benchmark price for a single-family home in the Campbell River area was $268,900, up 3.43% from October 2013; in the Comox Valley, the benchmark price was $315,500, which is nearly the same as a year ago; Duncan reports a benchmark price o f $ 2 8 4 ,5 0 0, w h i c h i s a l most identica l to last year; Nanaimo’s benchmark price was $341,200, up 4.81% from last year; Parksville/Qualicum has a benchmark price of $360,100, which is 3.70% higher than this time last yea r; a nd the price for a b enc h m a rk hom e in Port A lberni is listed at $185,900, a 3.97% decrease from October 2013.
PARKSVILLE
NOVEMBER 2014
Stevens & Company Law is highly trusted firm
Firm does general law as well as specializing in First Nations law
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i n c e S a m S te ve n s opened Stevens & Company Law, in 1996, his vision of results through trust and respect has been a guiding principle of the firm. “It’s simple; we respect our clients,” said Sam Stevens. “We do that through gaining their trust.” Today the firm has expanded its practice to provide a wide range of legal services in the areas of wills and estates, civil litigation, real estate, corporate, employment and aboriginal law. Stevens has dedicated much of his life to serving the needs of First Nations. For the past seven years he has focused exclusively on residential school claims, having processed about 1,000 cases in that time. About 30,000 claims have been made against the Canadian government and church in an effort to address the abuse suffered at these schools. As a First Nations lawyer in practice since 1985, Stevens brings a unique background and perspective to his work. He is an Algonquian from North Bay, Ontario and a member of the Kitigan Zibi Nation. Upon completion of high school he attended Wilfred Laurier University in Waterloo Ontario and then worked for Canadian Pacific Airlines for 15 years. At that time he had a choice – go into management or select an entirely different career. He chose the latter course and entered law school in 1980,
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graduating in 1983. He articled at the Department of Justice and took a full time job as the first director of Native Law at the University of British Columbia’s Law School, a position he held for six years. He has also worked as an administrator in the Justice of the Peace program for the Northwest Territories. In 1994 he moved to Parksville to open his own practice. He said that like many fledgling businesses, the first few years were a struggle. However, since that time, the firm has developed areas of specialization. Stevens himself continues to work primarily in residential school litigation. “Gradually it got to the point where I was working in that area full time,” he said. He hired other lawyers, including his daughter Jennifer Stevens-Trotti, as well as Trish Goulet and Lisa Holmgren to work in all the other areas his firm handles. He said that
Sam Stevens focuses on First Nations law people come to his firm because they know they can trust the lawyers and staff. “In many respects it’s finding the person you connect with,” he said. “Not only do you have to have the skills to be a good lawyer, but you should be a person who has your client’s best interests at heart. With my law firm, we try to do that every time – we show the client who we are and give them the sense that they can trust us and that we will get results for them.” As three of the four lawyers in the firm are First Nations, Stevens hopes to continue working with First Nations people and communities,” Stevens said. “The firm’s past success and future vision remain consistent. Our clients trust us because they know we respect them and will practice the law in their best interests.” Stevens & Company Law is at 326 – 198 East Island Highway in Parksville. www.stevenslaw.ca
Stevens & Company Law respects its clients and wins their trust
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NANAIMO
8
NOVEMBER 2014
Purchase of Re/MAX office results in synergy Owners of Re/MAX of Nanaimo buy Re/MAX Camosun Victoria offices, expand market BY MARK MACDONALD PUBLISHER
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h a rl i e P a r k e r, M i k e Hei n r ich a nd G raem e P a r k e r h a v e d i s c o vered a not her route over t he Malahat. It’s v i a b a l lo o n , a s i n t h e s i g n at u re ic on of Re/ M A X . T he ow ners of Re/ M A X Nan a i m o h a v e p u rc h a s e d R e/ MAX Camosun Victoria from Wayne Schrader, who owned t he f ra nch ise, w it h f ive offices in Greater Victoria, for the past 25 years. “I’ve known Wayne for many years through our common interests a s Broker/O w ners,” says Charlie Parker. “He’s been thinking about retirement for a few years and this past February we began more serious discussions which culminated in this transition.” T he pu rchase mea ns the c o m b i n e d o f f i c e s h a v e 27 5 sales associates in total. Str uctu ra l ly, Hei n rich has moved to Victoria as the Managing Broker, while Justus Edmundson has been promoted to replace Heinrich as Managing Broker in Nanaimo. Schrader
will stay on at Re/MAX Camosun for several months to help with the transition. “I will be travelling between the two cities throughout the week i mplement i ng t he i nteg ration of ou r two g roups under the same balloon,” notes Parker. “Graeme is developing a training program that begins in November. “Both companies have tremendous staff resources, all of whom have been asked to remain on board.” Parker, who has deep roots in Nanaimo and is a past president of the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce, is originally from Victoria. “I have fa m i ly there, so for me, it’s just l i ke com i ng home,” he notes. “I have alway s s p ent a lot of t i m e i n Victor i a, a nd con sider it to be a world cl a ss city. M i ke, Graeme a nd I a re a n x ious to get involved in the community to try and make a positive difference.” Re/MAX Camosun, with 175 rea ltors, is the la rger of the two operations. Re/MAX Nan a i mo, wh ich h a s 100 rea lto r s , w h i c h c o n d u c t s o v e r 50 per cent of the real estate
The new owners of Re/MAX Camosun Victoria, from left: Graeme Parker, Mike Heinrich and Charlie Parker transactions within its market area. “In Nanaimo we’ve worked hard to create an environment of support, training, education
and a family atmosphere,” says Parker. “Both operations have had a high level of involvement from ownership and as a result have ma ny systems that a re
industry leading. We expect to see the best of both used throughout the new organization. Pa rker says he’s not iced a g ro w i n g n u m b e r o f m o v e s between the two Va ncouver Isla nd reg ions, a nd that the new col laborative structu re will allow clients to seamlessly buy and sell between the two centers through associations formed between sales associates in each area. “ I t’s t h e s a m e c o m p a n y a nd cu stomer ser v ice, w it h specific local expertise at both ends,” he adds. One of Parker’s initiatives at ReMAX Nanaimo has been the creation of Re/M A X University, specifically designed to train realtors. “As an organization, education and training has always been a high priority,” Parker states, adding they plan on offering the training to Re/MAX Camosun realtors over time. “With the industry becoming more a nd more complex a nd regulated, we found the idea of establishing our own training center made sense.” www.remax-camosun-victoria-bc.com
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WEST COAST
NOVEMBER 2014
Best of the best on the West Coast Wickaninnish Inn Voted “Best Canadian Resortâ€? in CondĂŠ Nast Traveler 2014 Readers’ Choice Awards; Wolf in the Fog Named Air Canada enRoute Magazine’s
“Tofino has
D
romantics and
e s t i n a t io n m a rket i ng orga ni zation (DMO) Tou r ism Tof i no a nnou nced t h at Tof i no’s icon ic Wickaninnish Inn and newest restaurant Wolf in the Fog have been recog n ized as the top busi nesses i n thei r m a rk e t s e c to rs b y i nfluential travel industry publications. A member of the Relais & Chatau x a ssoci at ion of fi ne hotel iers, chefs a nd restau rateu rs, t he Wicka n i n n ish I n n was na med the #1 resort i n Canada in the 2014 CondĂŠ Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards. Opened in June 2014, Wolf in the Fog was named Air Canada enRoute magazine’s 2014 Canada’s Best New Restaurant. “Tof i no h a s blossomed i nto the perfect
blossomed into the perfect destination for foodies, nature lovers, adventurers, families.� CHARLES MCDIARMID CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD AT TOURISM TOFINO AND MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE WICKANINNISH INN.
destination for foodies, n a t u re lo ve rs, a d ve nt u rers, rom a nt ic s a nd fa m i l ies,â€? sa id Charles McDiarm id, Ch a i r m a n of the Board at Tourism Tof i n o a n d M a n a g i n g Di rector of the Wickan i n n ish I n n. “A l l of us at the Inn are thrilled to be at the heart of this vibrant destination and to have the unique visitor experiences we provide recog n ized by the d iscerning readers of CondĂŠ Nast Traveler.â€? “ We h a v e a s t r o n g culinary community in Tofino,â€? said Wolf in the Fog’s Chef/Owner Nick Nutting. “There are a lot of incredible restaurants here, so to be able to bring awareness to that t h ro u g h A i r Ca n a d a’s enRoute award is an exciting opportunity. Our food philosophy at Wolf in the Fog is to go w ith the f reshest a nd best local ingredients and to let the flavours speak for themselves a nd I th i n k that rea l ly resonates with our guests.â€?
YOU’VE OUTGROWN YOUR TAX STRATEGY.
Where do you go from here? As your business continues to evolve, so should your tax structure. Whether you’re responding to ever-changing regulations, expanding across provincial borders, or ensuring the greatest net profit after a strong year, you need an up-to-date tax strategy that supports the specific needs of your business. With more than 50 years of combined experience, MNP’s Vancouver Island team of tax specialists deliver tailored solutions to ensure that you minimize your tax exposure and maximize your returns, so your business can continue to grow. Contact Jamie Kungel, CPA, CA, Regional Tax Leader at 250.734.4303 or james.kungel@mnp.ca.
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NANAIMO
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NOVEMBER 2014
CELEBRATIONS COMING TO AN END In May, we debuted “Wine, Women & Song”
s All Types of Custom Fabrication s 3TAINLESS AND Aluminum WELDING s 3HEET -ETAL &LASHING -aterials s #OMPUTERIZED WaTERJET #UTTING s 3TRUCTURAL 3TEEL FabircaTION -aterials s 2ETAIL -ETAL 3ALES sTank Fabrication
an experiential trade show focused on those three topics
NANAIMO
MONDAY - FRIDAY 8:00 TO 4:30 TOLL FREE 1-888-754-9711
Fax: 250-754-8913
KIM SMYTHE
I
t’s been a great year in Nanaimo, in fact it’s one of the best we can remember in our 125 year history. We have marked this momentous occasion a number of ways as we took the year to examine our past and plan our way ahead for the future. We started by rechristening our annual awards program as Nanaimo’s Business Achievement Awards. Thirteen local private and not-for-profit businesses were chosen from a list of 47 finalists to receive acknowledgement in a variety of categories. (Check for the 2015 call for nominations on our website now.) We published our annual “Gateway” magazine and, rather than use it to simply promote Chamber programs and services, we developed a narrative entitled
“Looking Back, Moving Forward” that featured glimpses into Nanaimo’s past and compared how our lives now compared to then – economically, culturally, and socially.. We used our Annual General Meeting as a time to name six new board members and to ‘Celebrate Success Stories’ with Nanaimo Economic Development Corporation, Young Professionals of Nanaimo, Community Futures, Downtown Nanaimo Business Improvement Association and Startup Nanaimo. In May, we debuted “Wine, Women & Song” an experiential trade show focused on those three topics. It was such a winner, that we immediately scheduled it for 2015. Reserve your space now for this entertaining and innovative event. This preceded our annual June Golf Tournament held at the outstanding Nanaimo Golf Club. In July we accepted the salute of the venerable Loyal Nanaimo Bathtub Society. It was a privilege
to celebrate the 48th annual ‘running of the tubs’ and it motivated us to become more involved in the future of tubbing in Nanaimo. We welcomed an outstanding Indian summer with the launch of another event – Nanaimo’s Seafood Chowder Festival with our partners “Lucky’s Liquor Store”. In October, our Business Expo demonstrated an eruption of economic energy at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre and received big high-fives from the business community. But we didn’t just party the year away. We made new strides forward in economic development with Team Nanaimo, excelled at government advocacy taking a lead role in getting out the vote for the civic election, and created two new series of professional development opportunities – Lightning Talks and Spark Sessions. All in all, we turned it into a year to truly celebrate success. The Chamber thanks you for everything you did to take part in the celebration, and invite you to be part of the success as we enter 2015 and the next 125 years. Cheers! Kim Smythe is CEO of the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce. Reach him at 250-756-1191 ext. 1 or ceo@nanaimochamber.bc.ca
NANAIMO
VIU one of three universities to get funding for research projects
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remier Christy Clark, speaking at the Vancouver Island Economic Summit, announced $2.6 million for research projects at Vancouver Island’s three public universities. “So much of what we take for granted in our daily lives was made possible by groundbreaking research,” said Premier Clark. “Funding research at public post-secondary institutions on Vancouver Island supports a vibrant innovation sector, creates jobs and has the potential to improve lives in
Specializing in; · Income splitting structures (Family Trusts) · Corporate reorganizations (section 86 & section 51)
· Section 85 rollovers Kevin Beausoleil BA, MBA, CPA, CGA
250 754 2111 kevin@beausoleilcga.com beausoleilcga.com
BC and around the world.” The research ranges from recording important First Nations’ knowledge about the health of coastal estuaries at Vancouver Island University, to research at Royal Roads University that benefits BC municipalities, to research at the University of Victoria into unmanned air vehicles that can help manage natural resources. “The funding supports diverse research projects that can help improve the health of our province, the health of our communities and
Nanaimo’s IT experts Your IT department
the health of our citizens,” said Advanced Education Minister Amrik Virk. “World-class research at public post-secondary institutions taking place here in BC is supporting an energetic research community in our province while creating jobs in a very exciting sector.” Thefundingisbeingprovidedbythe BritishColumbiaKnowledgeDevelopment Fund, which supports research infrastructure in British Columbia. “This funding plays an important part in supporting VIU faculty who put their expertise to work on indepth research initiatives that are relevant to the communities and peoples in our regions,” said Vancouver Island University president and vice chancellor Ralph Nilson. “It also supports the university’s goal to offer our students opportunities to take part in experiential learning, participating in applied research with highly qualified and engaged faculty at both the undergraduate and master’s level.” Since 2001, the provincial government has invested more than $2 billion to research and innovation in BC, leveraging an additional $1 billion in research funding from other sources, for a total of $3 billion. $550 million of that has been awarded through the British Columbia Knowledge Development Fund.
NANAIMO
NOVEMBER 2014
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FLYING FISH PART OF DOWNTOWN NANAIMO’S SUCCESS Store is all about cooking, living, giving
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s Flying Fish in Nanaimo nears its 11th anniversary, it can look back on growth, evolution, success and a quirky beginning. Owner Glen Saunders, a retailer with successful stores in Terrace and Prince Rupert, had no intention of opening a store in Nanaimo. He purchased the building at the corner of Commercial and Bastion Streets because he thought he had the perfect tenant. After six months, the deal fell through and Saunders was left with a big, old building. What to do? Move ahead, of course! Saunders renovated the building and leased half to a record store and the other half to a gift store. When the gift store vacated after only one year, Saunders wondered if he should take the plunge and give downtown Nanaimo something unique. Born and raised in Nanaimo, Saunders believed in the downtown and loved the location. He brought in friends from Saskatchewan who had substantial experience in retail. Together, they toured Nanaimo from the North End to the South. Saunders’ friends agreed there was a void and that it was time for an independent retailer to open a shop in the downtown that would offer something no other store
Flying Fish has grown with the downtown core did. Six weeks later, Flying Fish hung out its shingle and hasn’t looked back since! You’ll find no “fish and tackle� at Flying Fish. The theme of the store is Cooking, Living & Giving - and from the beginning it has been a store that has offered unique items in all three categories. When the record store moved down the street, Flying Fish saw an opportunity to expand and offer its customers beautiful, quality furniture. “It was an awesome decision,� Saunders said. “We’ve been an active part of the redevelopment of the downtown, of which we’re very proud. Obviously, it’s been successful because we wouldn’t have expanded otherwise - and it has kept getting better and better.� He added that with the new restaurants and shops opening downtown, the core of the city
With the store’s expansion, the furniture section has become very popular
“Obviously, it’s been successful because we wouldn’t have expanded otherwise – and it has kept getting better and better.� GLEN SAUNDERS OWNER, FLYING FISH
is genuinely coming into its own – and it’s a great time for Flying Fish. Saunders noted that the store has many loyal customers, some of whom come in several times a week. One attraction is the ever-changing window displays coupled with edgy and new products. The store is never dull; the unexpected is always expected. The “Fish Family� keeps the merchandise fresh by sourcing products from Canada, the United States and Asia. It’s really a team effort, Saunders said. “We’re always on the hunt. We look for what is unique and different. We follow what is going on fashion-wise in Australia and New Zealand, who are actually quite ahead of the game – they’re very cutting edge with their colour and where they’re going.� The variety of giftware, kitchen items, furniture, jewelry and home accessories attracts everyone from age 9 to 90. People from the surrounding homes in the Old City, downtown
Manager Heather Wetmore and owner Glen Saunders keep the store fresh and interesting condos and offices shop at Flying Fish as well as people from Protection and Gabriola Islands. Flying Fish is also a destination shopping experience for people from all over the Island and farther afield. And
while the merchandise and good pricing are a draw, service is most important. “Our people are our edge,� Sau nders sa id. “We have a n amazing team. Our team has already done the selection, so we’ve narrowed down the choices and we’ve picked the better and the best in all the categories. You’re not choosing between 20 things – you’re picking between maybe three things. And then the staff is there to help you. They can find what you’re looking for and match it up to your budget. It doesn’t matter whether it’s furniture or jewelry – we’ll help you find it.� Customers looking for a gift will also find the right card while the staff wraps the item ready for giving. Quality is important at Flying Fish but that quality also comes in different price ranges. Saunders said that sometimes people are surprised to find that gorgeous items at the store are often the same price or even less expensive than the same or similar items in bigger chain stores. After more than a decade, Saunders is looking forward to continued success in a now thriving downtown. “The store will always be an evolution. We’ll be travelling and we’ll see something new and exciting and know that this is the way we’re going. We will always continue to hunt out unique products – it’s the never ending quest.� Flying Fish is at 180 Commercial Street in Nanaimo. www.flyingfishnanaimo.com
Flying Fish’s windows displays have always been a big feature of the downtown scene
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Celebrating 15 years in Nanaimo, 56 years in Victoria Vancouver ■ Nanaimo ■ Victoria ■ Calgary ■ Edmonton ■ Lethbridge ■ Toronto ■ Kingston ■ Kitchener
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NOVEMBER 2014
ENGINEERING Engineers look to the future where collaboration is key New technology is changing how engineers do things BY GOODY NIOSI
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he engineering profession faces new challenges every day. They are known globally as the world’s problem solvers, and today more than ever, they are taking a global approach to finding solutions to the challenges that face the world – or the issues that affect people in a neighbourhood close to home. Rick Peleshytyk, a principal in the Kelowna office of Golder Associates, says that locally, engineers constantly have to keep up with changes in building codes. In British Columbia that currently means making sure that new buildings can withstand earthquakes. Golder Associates, with its head office in Calgary, consist of more than 50 offices worldwide and is particularly noted for its consultation, design, and construction services in earth, environment, and related areas of energy. The industries it serves include oil and gas, mining, manufacturing, power, transportation and more. Working in those fields means that the firm has expanded beyond engineering per se. “Engineering companies aren’t just engineering any more,” Peleshytyk said. “We have engineers and scientists and that includes biologists, soil scientists and landscape architects.” It is this diversity of skills and expertise that brought Golder Associates into the Bernard Avenue upgrade project in downtown Kelowna, where it worked with Focus Engineering. Golder Associates was responsible for the geotechnical work while the utilities were being replaced, did the asphalt design and also handled environmental monitoring and the landscape architecture for the streetscape. “I think that’s what a lot of the clients are looking for these days,” he said. “They want companies that can provide a lot of different services.” He added that in his own field of environmental engineering, changes in recent years include more soil remediation in place and risk management rather than simply dumping contaminated soil into the landfill. But here, as everywhere else, the future emphasis is on global collaboration.
Golder Associates provided landscape architectural, consultation, geotechnical and environmental services for detailed design and construction services of the Bernard Avenue project in Kelowna
“We want to be able to use the expertise we have across the world and bring that into one project, whether it’s in Kelowna or Alberta or anywhere RICK PELESHYTYK PRINCIPAL, GOLDER ASSOCIATES, KELOWNA OFFICE
McElanney’s Island Highway Improvement Project in View Royal won the People Choice award at the Association of Consulting Engineering companies of BC annual Achievement Awards “We want to be able to use the expertise we have across the world and bring that into one project, whether it’s in Kelowna or A lberta or any where,” Peleshytyk said. “I know that within Golder, that’s one thing we’re working really hard at: improving our communication systems internally so that people around the world can work on the same project.” He noted that he belongs to a global group of environmental engineers.
“You can put out a question to everyone and it’s amazing the experience and the knowledge that my colleagues have around the world. Tapping into that is what we’re really striving to do. This is probably what a lot of the other larger firms are doing as well. There’s a lot of knowledge out there and a lot of problems are the same technically no matter which country you’re in – and the technology is there to have virtual
meetings with people across the world. I think that’s the biggest change that we’re trying to make in the future.” For PBX Engineering Ltd. with offices in Victoria (which won new business of the year award 2014 from the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce) and Vancouver virtual meetings amongst staff and clients are the big trend. SEE ENGINEERS LOOK | PAGE 14
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FOCUS ON ENGINEERING
NOVEMBER 2014
PBX Engineering won new business of the year award 2014 from the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce
ENGINEERS LOOK CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13
Managing principal Ian Steele said that it’s a given that technology and software in his company, which focuses on electrical engineering, is constantly evolving. But the game-changer for his staff has been the smart phone. “For us, as a company, they really are a pretty powerful tool,” he said. “The collaboration and communication that’s possible using a smart phone has really affected our business in a positive way.” As an example, he pointed to a staff member on-site, who can take a photo with his smart phone and email it back to the office within seconds to get an opinion on an issue.
PBX Engineering works extensively on transportation issues. Steele said that the Regional Transportation Data System in Vancouver looks at routes in the region, measures travel times and provides trip advisory information; that makes a big difference to commuters – and they do it all on their smart phones. Google Street View has also been an evolution for the firm. Steele said that engineers can now virtually drive a roadway. “That has materially affected how we look at jobs,” he said. “We don’t actually have to do as much site investigation as we used to. There’s always an amount that has to be done, but to get questions answered or to get the layout of a roadway, especially in remote locations, that has been a very powerful tool for us.”
ACTIVE in the Development of Our Communities Peerless Road Recycling Depot
McElhanney’s Vancouver Island team includes more than 80 engineers, surveyors, and technical staff. We provide professional services to our clients through a network of five local offices. Engineering | Surveying | Mapping | Community Planning | Environmental
Your Local Partner Since 1910 www.mcelhanney.com Campbell River 250.287.7799 | Courtenay 250.338.5495 | Duncan 250.748.3335 | Nanaimo 250.716.3336 | Victoria 250.370.9221
FOCUS ON ENGINEERING
NOVEMBER 2014
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Ian Steele says that smart phones and apps have changed the way engineers collaborate and work cooperatively Beyond the more obvious ways a smart phone helps staff collaborate, Steele said that many apps have also proved useful. Recently someone on a site needed to know the angle of a slope of a concrete pad. Sure enough, he found a level app and had it calculated instantly. PBX has even developed its own app for the Ministry of Transportation that amalgamates different data sets in the province, particularly for border routes, giving travel time estimates for certain routes. Related to the innovation of the smart phone and other technologies, Steele said that in the future, his firm is striving to allow more flexibility for staff to work on-site or from their homes, but through a more integrative experience than simply teleconferencing. “We’re looking for ways, when they’re out of the office, to make that whole experience more seamless. We’ve been
The McElhanney project former Peerless Road Recycling Center turned a former incinerator site into a new state of the art recycling drop-off center exploring that so we’re looking at ways of stretching the work environment and making it less tethered to the physical office. That’s a trend for us.” For Russ Irish, branch manager of the Nanaimo and Duncan offices of McElhanney Consulting Services Ltd., the big change in recent years is also technology. He said that in his 35-year career he has seen more changes than his profession had seen in the past 200 plus years. McElhanney is a firm of civil engineers and land surveyors. Essentially, Irish said that the firm is involved in work that
supports the development of communities. The basics have not changed, he said – but how the work is executed has undergone a revolution. “The way that we did survey work 35 years ago was more similar to the way that George Washington surveyed than the way we do it today. And that’s the thin edge of the wedge.” He added that engineers are constantly re-learning how to do their jobs. “It’s a continuum of new techniques that are presented by advances in technology.” He noted that his company has more than
20 offices and 500 staff and about a third of his staff is currently focused on natural gas projects in northern BC. “We’re able to do that because of technology,” he said, noting that recently he teleconferenced with someone in Toronto while they both shared the same images on their computer screens. “When I want to communicate with my secretary, I send her an email. So the way that I communicate with someone who is 10 metres away is the same way I communicate with someone who is 10 time zones away.”
LOCAL ENGINEERING FIRM KNOWN FOR EXCELLENT SERVICE Sorensen & Associates specializes in efficient, feasible designs
S
orensen & A ssociates Engineering Ltd. is well known in Nanaimo and the mid-island area for excellent service and practical design solutions for structural designs. Before founding his own company, Ted Sorensen was a partner in a Nanaimo engineering firm. In 2010 he decided to go out on his own as a one-man operation. It didn’t take long before he rea l i zed he wou ld have cha l lenges keepi ng h is company small. “I’m working just as much if not more than I used to,” he said. “I just couldn’t keep up with the workload, so I hired a tech.” When that tech left, he had a choice: turn work away or grow the business. He opted to grow and in spring 2014 took on Dan Fell, an engineer he had worked with previously. Since then, the company has moved into larger premises that it can expand into. In addition to two full time engineers, Sorensen
& Associates also has two full time techs and one part time ad m i n istration sta f f. T he c ompa ny i s a l so lo ok i n g to hire a junior engineer. W hat h a s m a d e s u c h a re l a t ive ly new compa ny so successf u l so quickly? “We’re a small company and we can give personalized service,” Sorensen said, adding that the firm also offers good tu rna rou nd ti mes a nd competitive fees. Ultimately, Sorensen would l i ke to h ave a m a x i m u m of si x or seven people on staff: enough to handle the workload but keeping it small enough to continue to offer exceptional service. With any project, from single family homes to multifamily, commercial and industrial work, the firm focuses on service and sensible design. “Da n a nd I a re of the sa me m i ndset i n terms of how we design,” Sorensen said. We do efficient, feasible designs. We are also known for prompt service during the construction. We’re easy to work with; we’re open to working with the contractor if there’s a better way to doing things.” Sorensen & Associates Engineering Ltd. is at 103 – 5220 Dublin Way in Nanaimo.
Great Service to Us… Simply Means; • Prompt communication • Timely project turn-around • Practical design solutions 250 585-1360 • Cell: 250 816-4448 tsorensen@sa-eng.ca
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FOCUS ON ENGINEERING
NOVEMBER 2014
BC major projects on the rise
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otal capital cost of m a j o r p ro j e c t s i n B C conti nued to rise i n t he second qu a r ter of 2014, jumping by 10.4 per cent over the record high set in the prev iou s qu a r ter, accord i ng to t he Association of Consu lting Eng ineering Companies – Br it ish Colu mbia (ACE CBC)’s BC MPI Review, released recently. To t a l c a p i t a l c o s t o f m ajor projects in BC were up to $3 4 4.3 bi l l ion i n the second quarter of 2014, a 15 per cent increase over the same period last yea r. Tota l capita l cost represents the combined value of projects identified as proposed, construction started, completed and on hold. Total capita l costs have been on a steady upward trend since the third quarter of 2012. T he value of proposed projects reached a record high in the second quarter of $236.5 billion compared to $206 billion in the first quarter of this year. Of note this quarter was that total new proposed projects (projects appea r i ng i n the Major Projects Inventory for t he f i rst t i me) soa red to $3 4. 4 bi l l ion i n t he se cond quarter, the highest in several years, This was largely due to the emergence of one newly
proposed LNG project, the $30 billion Sarita Bay LNG project near Port Alberni. “While total spending in our prov ince continues to brea k record s qu a r ter a f ter qu a rter, it’s important to note that these gains are becoming more heav i ly weig hted towa rds proposed LNG projects in the Nor t h,” sa id Keith Sashaw, President and CEO, ACEC-BC. “While the outlook for major project activ ity a nd i nvestment in BC remains generally posit ive i n t he med iu m a nd long ter m, we a re re a l i z i ng with each passing quarter how strongly our province’s future e conom ic g row t h i s t ie d to push i ng these LNG projects pa s t t he s t a r t i n g l i ne f rom plan into reality. We need to make this happen.” Projects on hold saw a rise of 11.7 per cent to $22.8 billion i n t he se cond q u a r ter f rom the first quarter 2014, due in part to a depressed commodity market. T h e l a rge s t q u a r te rl y i ncrease by industrial category occu rred i n the Oi l & Gas E x t ra c t io n s e c to r w it h t h e addition of the new proposed Sa r it a B ay L NG proje c t resulting in a 64.5 per cent jump over the first quarter. Changes i n other i ndustries were
minimal. On a year-over-year basis, the Oil and Gas Extraction sector was 86.3 per cent higher, while the Resort sector was up 19.9 per cent. T he North Coast reg ion reta i ned its top sta nd i ng with the largest capital cost of projects at $116.4 billion in the second quarter. The Lower Mainland-Southwest regions followed at $82.5 billion. The m a jo r it y of p roj e c t s i n t h e Nor th Coast a re i n the proposed stage at $100.5 billion, wh ich is a lso the h ig hest of any region. Most of the proposed projects are related to LNG and mining. The Lower Mainland-Southwest region conti nues to have the h ig hest c apita l cost u nder construction at $41.3 billion, up slightly from the first quarter. Residential and Residential Mixed Use projects were t h e l a rge s t c a te go r y u n d e r construction as well as in the proposed stage. The Vancouver Isla nd-Coast reg ion saw t he l a rge s t i ncre a se i n the second qua rter w ith the addition of the Sarita Bay LNG project.
Q2 2014 Major Project Inventory Highlights: Project total capital costs by project status, Q2 2014 vs. Q1 2014: ■
Proposed: 14.8 per cent increase to $236.5 billion
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Construction Started: 1.9 per cent drop to $82.6 billion
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Completed: 91.1 per cent increase to $2.4 billion
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On Hold: 11.7 per cent increase to $22.8 billion
Project total capital costs by industrial category, Q2 2014 vs. Q1 2014: ■
Accommodation/Food sector: held steady at $4.7 billion
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Arts & Entertainment & Recreation sector: held steady at $1.8 billion
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Commercial sector: 0.1 per cent decrease to $9.5 billion
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Education sector: 6.9 per cent increase to $3.2 billion
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Health sector: 0.6 per cent increase to $3 billion
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Manufacturing sector: 0.2 per cent increase to $30.9 billion
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Mining sector: 4.5 per cent increase to $40.1 billion
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Oil & Gas Extraction sector: 64.5 per cent increase to $76.5 billion
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Pipelines sector: 2.5 per cent increase to $28.9 billion
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Public Administration sector: 7.3 per cent drop to $1.2 billion
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Residential sector: 0.2 per cent drop to $25.3 billion
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Residential & Mixed-use sector: 0.3 per cent increase to $26.1 billion
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Resort sector: held steady at $20.1 billion
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Transportation & Warehousing sector: 1.7 per cent increase to $25.3 billion
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Utilities sector: 1.4 per cent drop to $47.6 billion
PBX – A REPUTATION FOR INNOVATION Staff at PBX are adept both within the office and on-site
P
BX Engineering has established itself as one of the leading electrical consulting engineering firms in BC. With over 18 years of experience operating in three major market areas – transportation, security, and industrial systems – the firm has a reputation for getting things done, and done well. This past year has been exceptional for PBX, including the management repurchase of the firm from a large US company, rebranding, and the opening of a new Victoria office. “The return to a locally-owned business model has been pivotal for us” says president Ian Steele. “Our staff is excited and support from our clients and colleagues has been incredible. We are now positioned to realize the company’s full potential.” Cory Edgar, lead of PBX’s transportation business unit, believes that the solid reputation is based on the consistent delivery of high-quality designs. “PBX has built a reputation for providing innovative and cost effective engineered solutions for our clients,
including other engineering firms, developers, contractors, municipalities, and transportation agencies. Our projects are diverse, ranging from street lighting and traffic signals to more sophisticated traffic management technologies like reversible lane control systems.” Through their experience delivering large, specialized projects including the Johnson Street Bridge, Sea-to-Sky Highway, Pitt River Bridge, Golden Ears Bridge, and the Port Mann/Highway 1 Improvement project, as well as hundreds of smaller projects, PBX has built an impressive resume. But the expertise doesn’t stop there. “Historically, PBX has been known as a transportation system design firm, but our depth goes well beyond into other specialty areas, including municipal water and wastewater, marine ports and terminals, security, and alternative energy. Automation and control encompasses a large portion of what we do,” explains Victoria office manager Andrew Townend. Townend noted that staff at PBX are adept both within the office and on-site. “We’re a very handson firm. Site services are a large part of what we do. This includes programming, testing, and commissioning – we set ourselves
apart in that regard. You quickly learn which design aspects work and which don’t when you are responsible for commissioning systems.” While locally based, with a very strong presence on Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland servicing all of BC, they are no longer just a BC firm. “We have effectively applied our unique expertise to provide solutions for clients across Canada and around North America” adds Steele. “We have on-going projects in Alberta, the Yukon, the Maritimes, in New York, and in California”. PBX projects a busy year ahead and is planning for growth. “Continued support from our clients is enabling us to expand our resource capacity. We’re a strong proponent of the engineering coop program –in January we’ll be welcoming another student from UVic to our Vancouver Office” notes Steele. The company plans to add several permanent positions over the next year. “As the region expands and infrastructure demands increase, we’re building capacity that will enable us to effectively support our clients’ evolving requirements.” PBX Engineering maintains four offices in BC – Vancouver, Victoria, Qualicum Beach, and Squamish. Additional details can be found at www.pbxeng.com.
TRANSPORTATION MUNICIPAL SECURITY M A R I N E CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES
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ALTERNATIVE ENERGY AUTOMATION & CONTROL
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COMMUNICATIONS PROGRAM MANAGEMENT www.pbxeng.com
PARKSVILLE
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NOVEMBER 2014
M&N MATTRESS SHOP IS IN THE BUSINESS OF GOOD, HEALTHY SLEEP SPOTLIGHT
Parksville store educates customers on the principles of sound sleep
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ith its stellar reputation for customer service a nd a n in-store top quality product, its little wonder that M&N Mattress Shop Ltd. in Parksville has been nominated for a coveted Better Business Bureau (BBB) Torch award. Company owner and president Mark Nagra said that the store’s reputation centres on service, a great product and honest advertising. He also credits his wife, Neelam for bringing the store to the next level. Neelam has worked with her husband since day one and has managed the store since 2009. In the past two-and-a-half years, she has taken on sole management, leaving her husband free to supervise the recently opened Surrey store. “She r u ns the show better than I ever have,” Nagra said. “It’s because of her that the Torch awards nomination came in. She’s very organized, suppliers love dealing with her, and she’s doing all the advertising, ordering and customer service. In short, she’s running the store better than anyone I have ever
met in the industry.” He added that the staff is also exceptional. “O u r sa les sta f f h a s more knowledge than probably 95% of people in the industry. I ask my staff to email me every day about something they have learned, either about sleep or the product in our mattresses – mostly about the product and how it can benefit the customer’s health.” He said that health is M&N Mattress Shop’s prime concern. People need food, water, air and sleep. Sleep is one-third of people’s lives and too many people are not getting a good night’s sleep – and that affects their health. “People spend up to $50,000 on a new vehicle and they drive it two hours a day on average,” he said. “And they’re sleeping eight hours a day on something they don’t have to insure or pay upkeep on. As far as a major piece of furniture for the home, it is by far the lowest cost and the most important.” Because health is so important, 90% of the mattresses the store carries are made with natural latex, rather than manmade memory foam. Nagra said that latex is naturally anti-microbial and because it breathes so well, it does not retain moisture from perspiration – moisture that invites mould, mildew, fungus and dust mites. Latex also bounces back and retains its shape. It also doesn’t produce toxic off-gassing like man-made
M&N has a wide variety of quality mattresses
“We’re not just selling beds. We’re helping people. We’re not just selling mattresses – we’re selling sleep solutions. MARK NAGRA PRESIDENT AND OWNER, M&N MATTRESS SHOP LTD.
On behalf of our entire organization, we extend our heartiest congratulations to Mark and Neelam of M&N Mattress Shop.
Mark Nagra says his wife Neelam is largely responsible for earning the store a Torch nomination
Restwell Sleep Products is a Proud manufacturer of:
www.restwell.com
Congrats to Mark & Neelam on your well deserved Nomination! Sincerely your friends at Novo www.novotextilesco.com
materials such as memory foam. “We educate customers on the health of the materials in the products we choose to carry,” Nagra said, adding that the staff calls it a “beducation.” He said that most people have issues with beds that begin to sag and carry the indent of their bodies. The material the bed is made of makes all the difference. Given that most beds today can’t be
flipped, this “bouncing back” is more important than ever. “If you want real comfort, you should be getting latex,” Nagra said. “Because it’s rubber, it won’t lose its shape. The average life of latex is 30 years; the average life of is foam is five – seven years.” Because the staff genuinely cares about the health and comfort of its customers, people keep coming back. The
store has been on the island for 14 years, the past seven specializing as a mattress and bedroom furniture store. M&N Mattress Shop has been a member of the BBB for three yea rs a nd has a n A+ rati ng, the highest achievable. Nagra pointed out that all but one of the brand names it deals with in furniture and mattresses is made in BC - and all the mattress companies have A+ ratings. The store buys from the Restwell Mattress Company that produces the Ironman Recovery Mattress, an exceptional product that specifically assists people with issues ranging from arthritis to diabetes and poor sleep, and also helps athletes recover more quickly while increasing stamina. “It takes sleep to a whole different level,” Nagra said. M&N Mattress Shop and it’s Surrey partner are the only stores in Canada to carry all eight models of the Ironman, a mattress that contains Cellitex, a combination of 13 thermal reactive natural minerals that keep the body cooler in sleep and have a clinically
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NOVEMBER 2014
M&N Mattress Shop sells good-looking and space-saving cabinet beds
M&N Mattress Shop is located in Parksville proven beneficial effect on the body, increasing the oxygen in the blood. It has been tested by over 10 North American university medical centres. European and Australian governments have given celliant class one medical device approvals. Na g ra i s pa ssion ate about matching people with the right m a t t re s s a n d w it h h e lp i n g
people i mprove thei r hea lth and sleep patterns – the two go hand-in-hand. “I tell my staff – put yourself in the customer’s shoes,” he said. “What do you want done? We’re all about service, quality and value.” He added that it goes without saying that his store will match anyone else’s price – but its care of the customer
is matchless. It also offers free setup, delivery and taking away the old mattress. M&N Mattress Shop also specializes in space-saving cabinet beds – an excellent alternative to murphy beds. The cabinet turns into a bed in 30 seconds. Nagra cares about his customers but not more so than his staff. He said it’s his experienced “front line” that allows him to leave the store and talk to professionals like chiropractors and massage therapists about the benefits of his products. He particularly commended Sukh Khakh who originally began training and working with Nagra in 1993. Nagra called Khakh the “Doctor of Sleep.” “I would say that he is the best mattress sales person in Canada,” he said. “He studies sleep and he knows about customers’ issues.” Khakh is also an expert on the benefits of the Ironman mattress. When a customer comes into the store, Khakh questions them about any health issues they might have such as fibromyalgia, diabetes, sleep apnea and more. “We have all learned from him,”
www.parksvillemattress.com
Nagra said, adding that Khakh has so much in-depth knowledge that customers trust him – and rightly so. People also trust Carol Thomas who has been with the store since 2001. Nagra called her another star on the front line. “We’re not just selling beds,” he said. “We’re helping people. We’re not just selling mattresses – we’re selling sleep solutions. It’s a very calm store – it’s not high pressure. Everybody wants to be doing something that’s positive and here we have a very positive atmosphere all around.” The future is an exciting one for the Parksville store. Already Nagra has helped open another store in Surrey. Plans call for
franchising across the country, but Nagra said that he will never forget that M&N is a “ma and pa” operation with the initials in the name standing for his children, Matthew and Natasha. He said Nagra said that he is really in the health business because good sleep is a key component of health. “Beating people’s prices is easy,” he said. “We won’t be undersold. But getting the right bed for health issues – that’s what we’re all about – that and the best customer service.” M&N Mattress Shop is at 1 – 291 East Island Highway in Parksville. www.parksvillemattress.com
Ironman Recovery Mattress
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n Canada only M&N Mattress Shop Ltd. and its sister store, WR Mattress Gallery in Surrey, feature the full line of Ironman Recovery Mattresses. These mattresses are advanced sleep systems that feature Ironman Sleep Technology, which was scientifically designed and crafted by Recovery Systems International (RSI) for today’s elite athletes. This technology is now available to anyone who wants to recover better at night! The Ironman Recovery Mattress utilizes celliant, which is a trade secret material added to fibers of the mattress cover. Celliant is clinically proven to increase oxygen levels in the
body up to 24% during sleep and is in the cover of all Ironman Recovery Mattresses, as well as in the premium latex of the original and natural series of Ironman Recovery Mattresses. This creates a complete sleep system designed to deliver unparalleled recovery every night. Increased oxygen levels in the body helps naturally boost body recovery and creates the optimal environment to help people feel better and reduce pain. The benefits of becoming fully rested include increased confidence in taking on daily tasks with greater mental alertness and energy.
www.cabinetbed.ca
PARKSVILLE/QUALICUM BEACH
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Great night out in Qualicum Beach!
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hat’s what the Rotary - Chamber of Commerce Gala Dinner and Auction promises to be a great night! The event will be held on Saturday, November 22 at the QB Civic Centre. The Gala is an evening of celebration but also an opportunity to make a contribution to the annual good works of Rotary and the Chamber of Commerce. Both organizations have helped to make this a very desirable place to live. Each year Rotary members work with young people and contribute to the lives of many others. The Qualicum Beach Chamber supports a variety of initiatives in this town which have attracted people and business to our community. The Gala planning committee has injected new ideas to accompany a live
and silent auction and these novel fresh activities will make the evening memorable. On this Gala 2014 you can dress in your finest, or relive the spirit of the movie “Out of Africa” in costume. Once again the Rotary-Chamber planning team is offering many attractive items for auction, including a wonderful Mexican holiday in Puerto Escondido, wine trips to the Okanagan, and fabulous gourmet dining not far from home. There are items to appeal to every taste and interest; without a doubt this is the year to attend the Gala! While Gala tickets are moving quickly you can still order yours by calling the Qualicum Beach Cha mber of Com merce 250-752-0960.
We didn’t stop at just flags.
Local service on Vancouver Island.
NOVEMBER 2014
FARMLAND IS NOT GREENSPACE There is no simple response to people complaining about legitimate agricultural activities in urban
PARKSVILLE KIM BURDEN
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he business of farming has been an interesting topic of discussion in Parksville over the past several weeks. It started with an announcement that Wildflower Marijuana Inc. was set to purchase a piece of farmland in order to establish a medical marijuana growing facility. They were greeted by a residential neighbourhood up in arms with concerns about an industrial style farming operation being accessed through their community disrupting their lives. The second incident involved Island Valley Farms on Church Road burning slash piles that accumulated from clearing land to raise cattle. There were numerous complaints about the
areas and we all understand the need to preserve farmland smoke of these fires from the communities of Errington, French Creek and Parksville. Both of the properties that were the subject of the community opposition to their activities are in the Agricultural Land Reserve, zoned for agricultural activities and subject to a variety of permitting processes for the activities involved. Included in the background of my thoughts about these incidents are recent applications regarding the Ermineskine lands in Parksville and the Wosk property on the border of Parksville. Both of these properties have been the subject of removal requests to have them removed from the Agricultural Land Reserve and all applications involving these properties
have been rejected by local government before going forward for rejection by the Agricultural Land Commission. There is no simple response to people complaining about legitimate agricultural activities in urban areas and we all understand the need to preserve farmland. We do however need to establish an appropriate balance. Farmland is not green space. It is land set aside to ensure that we are able to provide agricultural products within local communities. Farmers who have made the commitment to use their land for its intended purpose need to be allowed to go about their business as long as they follow the prescribed practices. Farming is a business and provides jobs and an economic benefit to the community. Hayfields are beautiful to look at but growing hay is only one of many legitimate farming activities. If as a community we want to change the rules there is a process for that as well. Kim Burden is Executive Director of the Parksville & District Chamber of Commerce. He can be reached at 250.248.3613
PORT ALBERNI
NOVEMBER 2014
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FIRST NATIONS ACTIVE IN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
PORT ALBERNI BILL COLLETTE
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s it Business as Usual in Port Alberni? A good question. Certainly the business community is doing well which is evidenced by construction activity, new ventures popping up, and just a good strong feel out there. But not everything is ‘as usual.’ That’s because of the significant steps being made throughout the Port Authority itself and through our First Nations communities all of whom are very active in economic development. The Tseshaht First Nation are just about to complete a major sewer system upgrade that will vastly improve the well-being of the Tseshaht
peoples and indeed all in the Alberni Valley. The project links the Tseshaht Market, which also went through a recent major expansion, to the City of Port Alberni and along the way the Santu Housing Development will benefit with safe water and wastewater facilities. All of this bodes well for the economics of the area. The Hupacasath First Nation were heavily involved in the City’s summer long Sunset Street Market in partnership with the Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce. The Market saw tremendous growth over first year operations in 2013 and is poised to get much bigger over the coming years. Our friends along the beautiful Alberni Inlet; The Huu-ahy-at First Nation are involved in significant business ventures as they work alongside both the Port Alberni Port Authority and Steelhead LNG. Their projects include the Port Alberni Transhipment Hub which is receiving substantial interest from around the world as it would create for efficiencies
in container shipments by reducing shipping times, increasing opportunity for door to door delivery along the Fraser River, reduce the lower mainland truck traffic, and reduce the overall costs of trans-pacific shipping. Of course the employment opportunities for the Huuahy-at peoples and other Canadians is a wonderful offshoot of this development. Added to that is the ongoing plans for LNG via a strong partnership between the Huu-ahy-at First Nation and Steelhead LNG based out of Vancouver. This project also offers significant economic boom for the area, inclusive is income potential for many people wishing to return to the Alberni Valley to raise their families. The Chamber of Commerce applauds the efforts of the many people involved in each of these projects. Bill Collette is executive director of the Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce. Reach him at 250-724-6535 or bill@ albernichamber.ca.
GLOBAL CONNECTIONS l LOCAL EXPERIENCE l TRUSTED RESULTS Coffee Shop Busy coffee shop in Departure Bay Ferry Terminal. Nanaimo l $78,000 Under Contract
News Stand Departure Bay Ferry Terminal, steady year round traffic. Nanaimo l $295,000
Under Contract
Flooring Retail/Distributor Popular discount flooring retailer founded in 2003. Nanaimo l $295,000
Under Contract
Specialty Meats Shop Reputable premiere meats shop, established in 1976. Nanaimo l $330,000 Greenhouse Operation Successful seasonal wholesale operation, established in 2005. Lantzville l $295,000 Well Established Pub Superb neighbourhood pub operation in leased premises. Nanaimo l $398,000 Hotel & Pub 7 room hotel and neighbourhood pub. Land, building & business. Port Alberni l $439,000 l L&B
Trucking & Landscaping Business Full service, year round trucking & landscaping, operating since 1998. Nanaimo l $1,500,000 l L&B Equipment Sales & Rental Shop Premium performer. Specializing in equipment rental & sales. Port Alberni l $1,965,000 l L&B Moving & Storage 31 unit storage facility and moving company on 1.96 acres. Parksville l $2,550,000 l L&B Pro Mac Manufacturing Well established, profitable business located on 1.3 acres. Duncan l $4,975,000 l L&B
Gerry Van Vaals | 250 616 2155 | gerry.vanvaals@DTZnanaimo.com Carlee Jahelka | 250 616 1020 | carlee.jahelka@DTZnanaimo.com
PROJECT MANAGEMENT COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION
GENERAL CONTRACTING RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION
Van Isle Construction congratulates Van Isle Ford on the opening of your brand new dealership. We are proud to have been your partner in this project! Contact Don Anderson at 250.724.1628 or cell 250.731.4980 or at buildsmart101@gmail.com
PORT ALBERNI
NOVEMBER 2014
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NEW FORD DEALERSHIP IMPRESSES such an outstanding project. Not only was he excellent to work with, but he brought the project in on time and under budget. The staff can now get on with the day-to-day job of giving customers top-notch service every day. “I think we do a great job of putting customers first,” Pulford said. “We’re very proud of the new facility and the community and the way we do business. I think our staff is a testament to that.” Van Isle Ford Sales Ltd. is at 4831 Beaver Creek Road in Port Alberni www.vanisleford.com
SPOTLIGHT
Van Isle Ford presented with Diamond Club President’s award at grand opening
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el l over 200 people turned out for the grand opening of the new Van Isle Ford dealership this past September 10 – more than most big cities can muster. Since then, hundreds more have visited, every one of them completely wowed. When dealer principal Will Pulford purchased the dealership in May 2010, erecting a new building under Ford Motor Company’s Millennium Facility Program was part of the agreement. The difference between the old dealership and the new is vast. Pulford said that the old dealership, at 5,400 sq. ft., was so cramped they couldn’t even fit a car in the showroom. T he new s t ate-of-t he-a r t dealership occupies 15,997 sq. ft. and boasts all the amenities that people expect or want from a new facility. The crowd at the grand opening was impressed – even more so when Dianne Craig, the president and CEO of the Ford Motor Company of Canada Ltd. presented Pulford with the Diamond Club President’s award that the dealership had won in 2013. “It’s the highest award a Ford dealership can receive,” Pulford said. “She travelled all the way from headquarters in Oakville Ontario. To win the award you have to have a very high level of customer satisfaction, determined by surveys we get from them when they buy a vehicle or get a vehicle serviced at the dealership. Currently we have the highest VOC (voice of the customer) score of any Ford dealership on Vancouver Island.” He added that the dealership has a lot to be proud of, especially how it is helping to put Port Alberni on the map. Sales associates take time with their customers, making sure that each one is matched with the vehicle that is right for them.
At the grand opening, Dianne Craig, Ford Canada president and CEO presented Will and Chelsey Pulford with the Diamond Club President’s award, with Gerald Wood, GM Western Canada region “It’s almost a cliché – so many people say that customer service is a top priority for them. But we have customers coming to us from very far away. They will travel two or three hours to get their vehicles serviced with us.” He added that Port Alberni still has a small town feel. When someone walks through the front door, there’s a good chance that the sales associate will know them. Maybe their kids play hockey together or they belong to the curling club. Chances are the person who buys a vehicle today is a person Pulford or a staff member will run into at the grocery store tomorrow. “We live with our customers everywhere we go,” he said. “So we treat our customers very well.” Staff turnover at Van Isle Ford is virtually zero, he said. And all the staff members take great pride in what they do. The new dealership is built around the customer, with the customer lounge as a focal point. It offers free wifi, a large screen TV, iPads, a fireplace and comfortable seating. Comfort is another important feature of the
dealership. Although certain criteria in the design were dictated by Ford, Pulford made sure that the dealership reflected the comfort of a close-knit friendly town. Van Isle Ford service is impeccable – and tailored to what people in Port Alberni need. There is, for instance, a dedicated RV service bay to handle any issues with the thousands of RVs that travel through town on the way to the West Coast every summer. Van Isle Ford is the only dealership in town that can handle RVs up to 57 ft. in length and 48,000 pounds. Pulford said he is also proud of the dealership’s involvement in the community. When he moved from Kelowna to Port Alberni to buy the dealership, he vowed that he would make a difference. Van Isle Ford is involved in local minor hockey and Pulford donates $50 from every new and used vehicle sold in both his dealerships (he also owns the GM shop) to a customer’s choice of one of three charities. To date the dealerships have donated $52,000 to the Alberni Valley Rescue Squad, the Alberni Valley Charity Classic and
Ty Watson Hospice. “My wife and I really look forward to the day when we can say we’ve raised $500,000 fro local charity. When we retire we want to know that we made Port Alberni a better place to live.” Today, they can say that they made the city a better place to buy a car. Pulford credits Don Anderson of Van Isle Construction for helping to make the dealership
Proud Suppliers to Van Isle Ford 4737 Tebo Ave - Port Alberni
Flynn Canada is proud to work with Van Isle Ford
PORT ALBERNI
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NOVEMBER 2014
COMPANIES JOIN FORCES TO GAIN BIG ADVANTAGE Kamma & Blake Industries now part of Canadian Aberni Engineering Ltd.
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wo notable Port Alberni companies have joined forces to establish a growing boat building presence in the Alberni region. Kamma and Blake Industries joined with Canadian Alberni Engineering Ltd. (CAE) in late October of this year. Paul Blake, owner and president of Kamma & Blake had been operating
the company for 25 years and was ready for a change. When Canadian Alberni Engineering opened across the street, he saw an opportunity for both firms. “I could see a lot of commonality between the two companies,” he said. “So I approached them about a year ago and asked them if they thought the same – and so we have been working on this for about a year.” Structurally, the “deal” is an asset acquisition, where CAE has acquired the intellectual property from Kamma & Blake and has purchased a large portion of the equipment and inventory of the company as well as hiring most of the staff. Kamma & Blake will,
“Together, we can take on larger and more complicated projects – projects that require design input as well as construction. We have great people in both companies – really impressive people both in trades and in support roles. ROB ENGLISH VICE-PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS, CANADIAN ALBERNI ENGINEERING LTD.
however, exist as a company for the time being, partly in order to fulfill warranty requirements of existing vessels. Blake will also be employed by CAE as a project manager and designer. Rob English, CAE’s vice-president of operations said the acquisition was a win for both the companies and the clients of the two firms. “One of the advantages that Paul brings to the new organization is a great reputation as a designer and builder of aluminum hulled vessels. Canadian Alberni Engineering, on the other hand, really doesn’t get into the design side and primarily builds steel-hulled vessels.” General manager Steve Dunagan said that the new acquisition gives customers a larger company to deal Est. 1900
Rob English says the recent acquisition gives the company the ability to take on larger projects
Steve Dunagan says that CAE has the ability to machine and fabricate just about any parts required
with that has a history of both aluminum vessel fabrication as well as steel-hulled. “It opens up new markets for us,” he said. “Kamma & Blake has mostly serviced the government, Coast Guard and private sector while we have focused mainly on the forestry sector, building small tugs and barges. This also gives us a larger group of talented, skilled trades people to take on larger projects in the future.” CAE began as a ship building company in 1914 and has produced over 150 vessels such as tug boats, side-winders for the logging industry, seine and trawling fishing vessels, barges, skiffs, live fish transport barges, water taxis, work boats and supply boats. Over the past 100 years, the company has gone through different ownerships as well as name changes. In June 2013, the company was purchased by Canadian Maritime Engineering, jointly owned by Daniel Russell of Russell Industries Corp.
and Tony Kennedy of Canadian Maritime Engineering. Currently CAE’s customers are largely based in the forest industry; however the company has also built pleasure vessels and much more. CAE is also a full service machine shop and fabricating facility boasting a large fabrication area with over 20,000 sq. ft. under cover with seven overhead cranes. Vessels up to 30m in length can be built inside. Two marine lifts (150 ton each) and a 250-ton marine railway are on site. “We have the ability to machine and fabricate just about any parts required,” Dunagan said. “We do lots of structural work outside the boating industry for small craft harbours, mills, restaurants, apartment buildings and more. We are very diversified. We also have built vessels we have shipped as far away as Ghana in Africa.” He added that the company’s rich history and expertise give it a strong edge in the industry. “We have a highly skilled workforce. All of our trades people are journeymen or apprentices and our welders are Canadian Welding Bureau certified. A majority of shops now are non certified – but our clients know we are producing quality work.” English noted that because the company is part of Canadian Maritime Engineering, which is part of Russell Industries, it has the financial depth to take on larger projects as well as projects for iconic clients like BC Ferries and the Canadian Government who require performance bonding and/or insurance coverage. English said the company will now build on the proud history and accomplishments of both companies. “Together, we can take on larger and more complicated projects – projects that require design input as well as construction. We have great people in both companies – really impressive people both in trades and in support roles. They have energy and ideas and they’re contributing. That’s one of our big assets.” Canadian Alberni Engineering Ltd. is at 3101 Bird Street in Port Alberni. www.alberni-cae.com
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WEST COAST
NOVEMBER 2014
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2014 NEDC Aboriginal Business Awards
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uu-chah-nulth Economic Development Corporation (NEDC) held their 8th Annual Aboriginal Business Awards Luncheon at the Tin Wis Best Western Resort on October 25, 2014. NEDC is committed to promote and assist in the development and establishment of new and existing aboriginal business enterprises on & off reserve. The NEDC Aboriginal Awards celebrate the accomplishments of NEDC Clients and/or Nuu-chah-nulth owned businesses and Aboriginal owned businesses located within the Nuu-chah-nulth Region (West Coast Vancouver Island). Whether nominees are a small business owner or a sole proprietor running a business out of their home, managing a large staff of a community-owned enterprise, or they are growing a business from the ground up as an entrepreneur, these awards recognize
Charlie Cootes presenting award to Wya Point
Charlie Cootes with Don Catling
and celebrate their achievements. The award categories allow for the unique strengths and diversity within the business community and recognize motivation, focus and achievable goals. The NEDC Aboriginal Business Award recipients serve as an example of excellence and inspiration
owned by Richard Cameron; Best Youth-Owned Business – T’ashii Paddle School owned by Tsimka Martin her partner Emre Bosut; Best Cultural Business – Calming Hearts Counselling Services owned by Tooie Casavant; Best Environmental & Sustainable
while showcasing best practices to be shared amongst all business people, whether they are those already involved in business or those considering a business career. This year, six (6) winners were chosen by a committee as follows: Best New Business – The Ground Up Landscaping & Irrigation
Business – Wya Point Resort owned by Yuułu-ił-at-First Nation (YFN); Outstanding Business Achievement – Calorie Connection owned by Don Catling and Business Of The Year – Transformation owned by Carol Anne Hilton.
STORM WATCHING AND OYSTER FESTIVAL AROUND THE CORNER The Chamber is focusing on a Buy Local campaign for the fall and winter, highlighting the many locally made products from here, as well as local vendors.
WEST COAST JEN DART
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e have been enjoying the beginning of what promises to be an active storm season here on the coast, luckily also with some intermittent sunny breaks. At the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, it’s been a busy fall with many Chamber and community events and initiatives. The Chamber-hosted Harvest: Celebrating the New and Emerging progressive dinner held Oct. 8th was a huge success thanks to the participation of many local restaurants. Four new restaurants and food purveyors were involved, including Picnic Charcuterie, The Ice House Oyster Bar, The Fish Store and Oyster Bar, and Wolf in the Fog. Other participants included Shelter Restaurant, Jamie’s Rainforest Inn, and Tofino Brewing Company. Many thanks to all who attended and took part, Especially to Chamber board member Sheila Orchiston of Rare Earth Weddings who organized the entire evening. This may have to become a yearly event! The Chamber is focusing on a Buy Local campaign for the fall and winter, highlighting the many locally made products from here, as well as local vendors. In Tofino, Jingle Into Christmas is a pre-Christmas Buy Local event that involves specials at local merchants and longer hours on the first day of the weekend, Dec. 5th. Festivities extend throughout the weekend, with Christmas craft fairs and more. A great time to visit and
do some Christmas shopping! As part of our fall renewal period, the Chamber is surveying the business community on several fronts, asking about challenges in the business environment this year, as well as what we can do as a business organization to help. Part of the Chamber’s role is to assist with initiatives like affordable housing, which is an issue that has long plagued Tofino. In addition to lack of employee housing, the town experiences inflated real estate prices that make home ownership difficult for many long-term residents. The District of Tofino has commissioned a needs and assessments study to get a view on the current situation. The district has been down this road before, but hopefully the momentum is there to result in housing being built that will address local need, including employers’ need to house employees during the high season. A total of 354 people took the Tofino Ambassador Program—a free Chamber educational program aimed at residents and front-line tourism staff—in 2014. This is double the number from last year and our highest participation to date. We are looking forward to growing the program in 2015, with the help of our partner, the Raincoast Education Society. For more information, please visit www.raincoasteducation.org and our site at www.tofinochamber.org. Each month apart from the summer months, the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber is fortunate enough to host a luncheon for members, sponsored by the various restaurants and hotels in town. In October, the Tin Wis Best Western hosted us in the Beachfront Bistro. In November, the
Coastal Community Credit Union will be co-sponsoring our event, and the Pointe Restaurant at the Wickaninnish Inn will be welcoming us in December. On behalf of our membership, we thank the sponsors and speakers that support our Chamber events. We look forward to welcoming you to
Tofino in the near future (Oyster Festival is Nov. 14-16th!), and thank you for buying local —wherever you are! Jen Dart is executive director of Tofino Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at jendart@tofinochamber.org
NANOOSE
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NOVEMBER 2014
ANOTHER GOLD FOR TS WILLIAMS!
Keith Baker and Taran Williams accept the Gold CARE award for the Cadence
The rooflines of the Cadence echo the islands in the distance SPOTLIGHT
TS Williams Construction Ltd. continues its winning ways at the CARE awards
T Professional Glass Service
COASTCLOSETS Custom Closet Designs
Congratulations from all of us
at Coast Glass 1002-B Herring Gull Way | Parksville, BC V9P 1R2 250.248.4191 coastglass@shaw.ca www.coastglass.ca | www.coastclosets.ca
S Wi l l ia m s Con st r uction Ltd. left this years CAR E awards with another handful of Silver awards plus the Gold CARE award in the category Best Single Family Detached Home over $1 million for the Cadence, a spectacular waterfront home in Lantzville. The Cadence takes full advantage of its oceanfront setting, embodying the idea of harmony with nature. Company owner Taran Williams pointed out the unique rooflines as an example, barrel vaulted to blend in with the islands visible from the property. As with all TS Williams homes, the Cadence embodies quality in every single detail. The curved glulam beams were sourced from a special mill in Squamish. An outdoor waterfall is cunningly positioned and designed to give
DRYWALL 250-947-9220
Congratulations
TS Williams!
4737 Tebo Ave - Port Alberni
the appearance of spilling right into the house. The home boasts a glass and stainless steel staircase and a black glass fireplace wall that mirrors the view from the ocean. “It’s like having another window that reflects what you see outside right into the house,” Williams said. The pivot door at the entrance opens to a feature wave wall that not only gives a hint of what is to come around the corner in the great room, but also presents as a work of art. The home also features many concrete sinks concrete countertops throughout. At just under 5,000 sq. ft., every inch of the Cadence is quality. Williams built the Cadence for clients he’d worked with previously: people who had been so happy with what he had done for t hem b efore, t hey were more than happy to work with him again. As with many of his homes, the clients came to him with a concept, which he brought to Keith Baker of KB Design in Victoria, a designer he works with frequently. Once the design
was completed, it was a matter of working carefully in an environmentally sensitive oceanfront area and completing the house with the highest quality in mind. At this year’s CARE Awards, TS Williams Construction also won Silver in the following categories: Best Contemporary Kitchen (New or Renovated) under 230 sq. ft. TS Williams Construction Ltd. and The Interior Design Group - Elangeni Best Contemporary Kitchen (New or Renovated) over 250 sq. ft. TS Williams Construction Ltd. and The Interior Design Group The Horizon TS Williams Construction Ltd., The Interior Design Group and KB Design – Cadence Best Bathroom (New or Renovated) over 100 sq. ft. TS Williams Construction Ltd. and The Interior Design Group The Horizon Best Master Su ite (New or Renovated) over 500 sq. ft. TS Williams Construction Ltd., The Interior Design Group and
NANOOSE
NOVEMBER 2014
27
A black glass wall surrounds the fireplace in the Cadence KB Design – Cadence Best I nterior - Residentia l 2,800 - 4,000 sq. ft. TS Williams Construction Ltd. and The Interior Design Group - Elangeni Best Interior - Residential over 4,000 sq. ft. TS Williams Construction Ltd. and The Interior Design Group The Horizon TS Williams Construction Ltd., The Interior Design Group and KB Design – Cadence Best Millwork over 4,000 sq. ft. TS Williams Construction Ltd. and The Interior Design Group – Cadence W i l l i a m s c re d ite d A sh ley Campbell of The Interior Design Group for doing outstanding work on many of his projects. The Elangeni, an ocean view h om e, g a r n e re d p a r t i c u l a r attention for its kitchen with its bright, clean lines and cabinets whose taupe colour pops out and brings the room into focus. The floor plan is also accommodating for a retired couple who desired privacy for themselves and their guests. T he Horizon i n Na na i mo’s Rocky Point area blends the
An honour to share in this award
keithbakerdesign.com 250-384-1550
interior with the natural landscape. The West Coast modern home makes abundant use of walnut, stone and concrete. The contemporary staircase is a strong architectural element. Williams has now entered the Cadence into this year’s provincial Georgie Awards as well. The company has won Georgies in the past and in 2009 received a national SAM award for a home called Metro Mountain in the category Best Single Family Detached Custom Home between 2,500 - 4,000 square feet. The home’s features included both decorative elements and energy efficiencies including a heated driveway, cantilevered kitchen, integrated media/sound system, steam shower, self-starting generator system and a refrigerated wine room. It is also shockingly beautiful with soaring ceilings and abundant use of timber and wood accents. Williams credited Ken Tanguay from Structure Design with helping him bring his ideas into an award winning design. He noted that he works with Tanguay on many of his projects. Currently Williams is working on another waterfront home
“It has always been my ambition to do things that are creative and different. I treat every house as if it were my own – that’s the bottom line.” TARAN WILLIAMS
The Cadence boasts a glass and stainless steel staircase
OWNER, TS WILLIAMS CONSTRUCTION LTD.
Congr atulations T S W illiams Cons t ruc tion
in Lantzville and a home in the Departure Bay area of Nanaimo. Like all TS Williams homes, these will be far from ordinary. Typically, TS Williams’ homes are modern, often enhanced with timber. Some rise out of the environment as if nature had given birth to them; occasionally the shapes and curves of the land and sea are echoed in the structural elements. SEE ANOTHER GOLD | PAGE 28
LEGAL SURVEYS MUNICIPAL ENGINEERING LAND DEVELOPMENT AND MANAGEMENT
Nanaimo
Victoria
Parksville
250.758.4631 250.727.2214 250.248.5755 S er vin g t h e Communi t y s in c e 1959 | w w w.jeand e r son.com
Congratulations TS Williams
28 ANOTHER GOLD CONTINUED FROM PAGE 27
“Our motto has always been that we build long-term homes,” Williams said. “We put more money into quality windows and doors. All of our houses have a minimum of 50-year roofs. We focus on generous roof overhangs to protect the exterior from the rain – that’s always a key thing in most of our houses.” TS Williams Construction has a long standing reputation for “going the extra mile.” “You have to leave every job as if it’s your last,” Williams said. “We get work through referrals and we cou nt on those good references.” Twenty years ago, when Williams started building,
NANOOSE he had left school where he was studying architecture. “I figured out pretty quickly that I was a hands-on person,” he said. “So I went from being in school to saying, no I’d rather do it and create it myself, rather than have someone else create it.” He cut his teeth in the business in various places in the world including New Zealand where he built houses for three years. After a stint working in Ontario he travelled back to Vancouver Island where he created the reputation he has today of being one of the finest home builders on Vancouver Island – and beyond. “At first I took whatever was available,” he said. “I built timber frames in Tofino, Campbell
2220 Wilgress Road • Nanaiomo • 250.571.7584 Monday-Friday 8:00-5:00 • Saturday 9:00-5:00 kitchenandbathclassics.com
NOVEMBER 2014
River, Cowichan Bay – I travelled to wherever people would let me do my thing.” When he decided to settle in one area, he chose Nanoose Bay because it was the kind of area that he believed would welcome the style and quality of homes that he loves. After he built his first home, the world opened up to him. “It has always been my ambition to do things that are creative and different,” he said. “I treat every house as if it were my own – that’s the bottom line.” When a new client approaches TS Williams, the interview goes both ways, he said: not only does the client have to feel comfortable with the builder, but the reverse is also true. Then the client’s budget has to be established along with their ideas. “It’s key that all our clients contribute information throughout the entire project, from the initial design to the finish – so that the client gets their ‘dream’ home,” Williams said, noting that the first focus is on the customer’s budget. “We really insist that the client does the design with us. If we can establish a budget, we can design a house within their budget. We take the client’s input, we contribute our input and pick one of the designers we use. And then the dream house becomes a reality.” Because Williams makes a total commitment to each project he undertakes, he only builds two or three each year and that’s not about to change. “We’re a small and personal company,” he said. “We carefully select our projects to make sure that they reflect what we do. We work really hard to get our signature style homes. And I can’t give enough praise for our trades. It’s like a close-knit family. So much of our success is due to our trades. They love our houses as much as I do.” The focus is always on long-term value, he said. “It’s easy to build a home fast, but if you’re going to make a substantial investment, long-term value is the key. So we focus on very durable products that are meant for the West Coast – quality windows and doors, durable siding and real stone – we don’t
The Horizon features a dramatic staircase
The Cadence front door opens to reveal a “wave” wall use cultured stones or veneers.” Next year will likely see more entries from TS Williams in the annual CARE awards – but that’s not the focus of the work the company does – that focus is
the same now as it has been for the past 20 years: quality, not quantity. TS Williams Construction Ltd. is in Nanoose Bay. www.tswilliams.ca IDG is proud to be a working partner with TS Williams Construction
Congratulations to TS Williams Phone 250-758-5588 Visit us at abbafloorcoverings.ca
250.751.0922
#200 4311 Boban Dr Nanaimo BC
www.bcinteriordesigngroup.com
TAX
NOVEMBER 2014
29
INCORPORATING YOUR BUSINESS TO MAXIMIZE YOUR TAX SAVINGS
I
n the typical lifecycle of a business, you reach a point during the growth ph a se when you b eg i n making a profit with your business. That is often the time when it makes sense to incorporate. A corporation is a business which is owned and operated by the shareholders. Legally, a corporation is a separate entity with the same rights in Canada as an individual. While the shareholders own the shares of the company, the corporation owns the assets and is responsible for any debts or claims against the company. There are a number of advantages and disadvantages to operating a corporation which are outlined below. Advantages: Limited liability – Corporations can protect the shareholders against legal claims. Tax deferral – If a B.C. corporation is engaged in an active business, the first $500,000 of active business income is taxed at a rate of 13.5%. Debt repayment – If the corporation is taxed at a lower rate than you would be personally, you are able
Mike Hughes, CPA, CA to pay off debt faster than if you were in a partnership or proprietorship. Income splitting – If a corporation is structured correctly, dividends can be paid to family members of the business operator. Capital gains deduction – The $800,000 lifetime capital gains deduction can be utilized on the sale of the shares of a qualifying small business corporation. Raising Capital – A corporation has the option to raise capital not only by incurring debt, but also through equity financing. Disadvantages: Complexity – A corporation adds more complexity
and requires more professional advice. Costs – The additional complexity comes with increased costs for professional fees and other services related to the corporation. Loss restriction – Losses incurred by the business may get trapped inside the corporation. As your business grows and prospers, incorporating your business often makes sense. If your business continues to flourish, more complex structures can be introduced. These will be discussed in future articles. To read the full version of this article, and other useful articles from our Business Examiner series on corporate structures and tax planning, go to www.MNP.ca/ islandtax Mike Hughes, CPA, CA is a Taxation Specialist with MNP LLP | Accounting > Consulting > Tax. Contact Mike at 250.734.4301 or michael.hughes@mnp.ca. Please consult a tax advisor for advice on how the above information should be applied.
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Information contained herein has been obtained from the owners or sources deemed reliable by DTZ Nanaimo Real Estate 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 user’s own inspection of the premises and due diligence work and to the user’s satisfaction with the results of such review.
OFF THE COVER
NOVEMBER 2014
TAILINGS POND AT MOUNT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
of locations around the mountain. On Tuesday, Sept. 23 North Bay Resources released a 288 page technical report that Houle authored about its Mount Washington Project, which compiled previous information about minerals on its property and revealed new information about what exactly is in the tailings debris itself. In 2011 Houle noted t h e r e c o u l d b e $ 5-10 m i llion in metals in the tailings. This official resource estimate now indicates that out of 325,400 tonnes of material in total there is 241,625 tonnes at 0.119 grams/ tonne of gold, 5.68 grams/tonne of silver, 0.098% copper, and 8.26 grams/tonne of tellurium. It also infers there is 83,775 tonnes at 0.119 grams/tonne of gold, 5.68 grams/tonne of silver, 0.098% copper, and 8.26 grams/tonne of tellurium. Like many of his clients, North Bay Resources is a small company that has acquired mineral claims and has to advance them in order to retain them. The company has held the claim to the old mine tailings pond and the surrounding area since 2011. The pond isn’t the only location with enormous potential. Houle noted that one of the most interesting sites is called the Domineer and is located underneath the Boomerang ski lift on Mount Washington. The Domineer is a flatline gold bearing quartz vein. Houle said it was structurally similar to the nearby open pit copper mine, which the government is working on as reclamation project to stop it from leaching metals into the environment. “In previous days we didn’t know any better as an industry,” he said. “Sometimes we did things that weren’t the best. I think we’re way better now.” The testing at the tailings pond provides information, and for now that’s all it is, Houle said. Anyone who thinks work will begin due to this new information is ahead of themselves. Houle said that if North Bay Resources were to extract minerals from the tailings pond, they might
31
“The old coal seams made Nanaimo. The wealth created from that had a very strong impact on the formation of British Columbia and bringing it into Canada.” JACQUES HOULE PROPRIETOR, JACQUES HOULE MINERAL EXPLORATION CONSULTING
Jacques Houle says the tailings pod at Mount Washington has the potential to yield valuable minerals
have to build a second one. “Or you could stack the material on one end of the pond and then process through a plant, extract what you can and then redeposit it on the other side – it’s possible.” But no work is scheduled to go ahead at this time. The key thing, Houle said, is that the findings are documented and on the record. The pond is just one of many possibilities on the island. Houle said the wider potential is “outstanding.” “The old coal seams made Nanaimo. The wealth created from that had a very strong impact on the formation of British Columbia and bringing it into Canada. There’s fabulous history on that. There is great potential for more mines like Island Copper, Myra Falls and the Quinsam Coal Mine. We have potential for many more of those kinds of projects.” He added that BC’s environmental regulations are world class and that industry and the environment can exist side by side. “What we do is, we generate wealth,” he said. “The jobs needed here are very important. There are a lot of people who live here who would love to work here and not have to fly to Alberta to work on projects there.”
Jacques Houle says there is abundant potential in Vancouver Island’s mineral wealth
IS YOUR BUSINESS.. In Pursuit of Ethics? In order to be a truly “ethical business” everyone involved in the company (from the owners to the employees) must be able to think critically and recognize that every choice or action leads to a positive or negative consequence. While we might think such a skill set is something that is inherent in each of us, the reality is that making truly ethical decisions is a learned behaviour. If we consider that the concept of ethics is generally defined Rosalind Scott, BBBVI President & CEO as "moral principals that govern a person's or group's behaviour," then to be truly ethical we must first understand the moral values that shape our personal decision making. We often use the word ethics or ethical behaviour freely, assuming that there is one single standard for making an ethical choice or decision. In reality it’s a person's past experiences that define for them the difference between right and wrong, being honest or dishonest, choosing to make good decisions or poor ones. Many people think they are making the “best choice” based on their experiences and knowledge. But as the old saying goes "the path to hell is paved with good intentions."
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Guided by a certified educator, real life situations are presented in an entertaining, relevant, and memorable way in which the audience makes the decision and selects the direction of the program. IPoE is designed to help participants realize that everyday choices can lead to ethical consequences. This program confronts audiences with practical situations that challenge the group to use critical thinking skills while they wrestle with ethical decisions and the impact of those decisions. IPoE explores numerous ethical issues that are encountered in today’s world. By exploring these issues, participants learn answers to such questions as: • What would I do when presented with a particular ethical challenge? • Do I have the courage to do the right thing even when I really don’t want to? • Do I understand how my behaviour impacts others? The most unique thing about this program is that BBB will customize the program to your organization’s needs and budget. Elements of the training program can be offered as one hour presentations, part or full day workshops or ongoing weekly classes. Whether you are just looking for an interactive group presentation, or need to fulfill a professional certification requirement, IPoE can be adapted to your needs.
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COMOX VALLEY
NOVEMBER 2014
33
REFLECTING ON 10 GREAT YEARS!
COMOX VALLEY DIANNE HAWKINS
T
here are moments in our lives when many of us look back and wonder where years went, whether it’s our kids getting older, or how long ago we graduated or… you get what I’m saying. Recently, November 4th to be exact, I was faced with pondering where did the last 10 years go? It seems like yesterday I began
my position at the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce, focussed and excited to become part of our thriving business community. Having grown up in a family owned business, I understood the demands of owning a small business and keeping up with trends, feeding the family and weathering the many economic storms that come along. Being a business owner requires a certain amount of bravery and courage and the ability to adapt to change. I was ready to work with 500 businesses in the Valley to assist them in their day to day challenges and find ways to maximize what the Chamber could offer. There have been many changes at the Chamber and many great milestones have been reached. We have worked with the local governments on lowering business taxes, supporting inter-municipal business licences, advocating for a Regional Growth Strategy and
providing our recommendations. To name a few. My personal high points at the Chamber have been many, from creating and presenting advocacy policies, to working individually with our members, and creating a spirit of collaboration amongst organizations we work with. Every moment of the Chamber day is full of activity and the days fly by. A few very special highlights to me; February 13th 2009 was declared a bad day for plastic bags in the Valley, the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce, along with large and small corporations in the Valley handed out 75,000 re-usable bags to residents and businesses. This was launched as the “Grab your Bag” campaign in the Valley. This was no small task! With the assistance of a dedicated board of directors and supportive business’ such as Canadian Tire, Home Depot, Thrifty Foods, Petland, Slegg Lumber, Woofy’s, London
Drugs, the CVRD and the BIA’s we launched a great community project. In the spring of 2009, our Chamber presented a Bagless BC Policy to Chambers across the Province. It was a very memorable lively debate with our submission being tagged “the Great Bag debate!” While we didn’t manage to obtain full Provincial approval at the time, we had the opportunity to present the Comox Valley’s bagless success story. There are many terrific memories from these years, being part of the 2010 Olympics, along with Sarah Nicholson (Tourism Mount Washington), travelling with a delegation of Chamber CEO’s to China last year (Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou, Hangzhou) along with Campbell River Chamber CEO, Colleen Evans. In May 2010 we were recognized by our Chamber peers and awarded the 2010 Chamber of the Year in BC and in September 2010 I was nominated
for the Canadian Chamber Executive of the Year. In 2010 our membership reached 750 members!! While all these activities have been great milestones in my 10 year journey with the Chamber. I think perhaps some of my favourite times have been the individual coffees, lunches and meals I’ve shared with members over the years, some becoming great friends over time. Hearing their stories and their passions for business have inspired me in my role. I believe its relationships that grow good business, our stories, our lessons, the events and dreams that make up who we are, they propel us forward. Thank you Comox Valley – its been a great 10 years!! Dianne Hawkins is president and CEO of the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce. Reach her at dhawkins@ comoxvalleychamber.com
THIRD QUARTER CONSTRUCTION STATISTICS FOR COMOX VALLEY AND CAMPBELL RIVER
200-457 Cliffe Avenue, CourTENAY s !CROSS FROM THE 3ID 7ILLIAMS 4HEATRE
BUILDING LINKS CLARICE COTY
I
n a recent issue of Building Links, we compiled the 2014 third quarter construction statistics for the areas of Courtenay, Comox, Cumberland, the Comox Valley Regional District a nd Campbell River. These statistics detail the amount of permits and construction values that have been issued from Jan. 1 to Sept. 30. 2014. Construction activity is increasing in Courtenay, Comox, and Cumberland. The overall construction statistics have declined in Campbell River, due to a decrease in permits for commercial/private sector buildings this year. Last year at this time, permits totaled $90 million in Campbell River’ due to permits for four large buildings; this year, the construction value is $50 million. We anticipate that permit values for large projects will increase substantially in the next 12 months due to the construction of the addition to the Campbell River Hospital and the John Hart Dam. Overall construction values for all of the communities stand at
Custom home that has been built and sold at The Ridge in Courtenay $123 million compared to $142 million at this time in 2013; a slight decrease of 13%. We forecast that the total values will continue to rise slightly in the next three months, so that by the end of 2014, the construction values are expected to catch up by about 8% in tune with the values from 2013. Single family housing construction is poised to increase in the Comox Valley and Campbell River regions during the next 1215 months. The inventory of lots is increasing, and so is the demand for new custom homes. We have found that construction activity for new custom homes has increased significantly in the past six months. Various builders have commented that buyers from Alberta and Saskatchewan are returning to Vancouver Island to build their new home and other people are moving here to work on the John Hart Dam and the North Island Hospitals Project. Con st r uct ion act iv ity h a s
picked up in the Comox Valley subdivisions of The Ridge and Crown Isle and in the Willow Point area of Campbell River. There are also more applications and projects underway for multi-family housing in the region, with townhouses being constructed and priced starting at $199,900. Patio homes are also making a comeback with new patio home projects being constructed in both the Comox Valley and Campbell River regions. These new multi-family projects are being offered to buyers at all levels, from entry levels, to more luxurious, with prices ranging from $199 to $429,000 for patio homes. We project that the construction of multi-family homes is expected to rise by 15% in the next 12-15 months in this region. Clarice Coty is the editor and publisher of Building Links, a North Island Construction Report. Go to www.buildinglinks.ca to receive four FREE issues.
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34 COMMUNITY
NOVEMBER 2014
COMOX VALLEY Comox Valley is seeing economic growth Increasing diversification is beneficial to the valley BY GOODY NIOSI
T
he Comox Valley has historically been one of the fastest growing communities in BC. The latest BC Stats projects this trend to continue over the next few decades thanks to major employers including CFB 19 Wing Comox, thriving agriculture and aquaculture industries, and a strong yearround tourism sector, which has attracted investment and expansion by resorts, hotels and attractions in recent years. The construction of the new Regional Hospital, expansion at North Island College, and many new retail and residential developments are all evidence of the economic climate and abundance of investment opportunities. Proximity to both regional and international markets are convenient thanks to expanding transportation connections and flights via the Comox Valley Airport and Harbour Air, where passenger traffic is forecasted to continue to grow. This growth has been particularly evident in new home construction and home sales. Bryce Hansen, a sales professional with Remax Ocean Pacific Realty said that in the 12 months ending July 3, the Comox Valley saw 1,389 home sales, a 13% increase over the previous year. Sales prices are also up by about 5%. He said that most buyers are local and in the 30 – 40 age group. “The economy overall in the Comox Valley is doing pretty good,” he said. “It’s stable. I deal with a lot of business owners and when I talk to them, everybody is raving about how good business is right now. The feedback is very positive.” There have also been recent successes in agrifood investment attraction and industry expansion, including the hosting of major trade delegations including the MGM Grand food buyers delegation and the Korean Noblesse media delegation. “Holding the Island Agricultural Show here in the Comox Valley is a feather in our cap, and a testimony to the economic importance and size of the agrifood sector,” said Brad Chappell, director, Comox Valley Economic Development & Tourism, and owner of Heart of the Valley Farms. “It not only showcases the most up-to-date and advancing trends, technology and tools but
Mount Washington Alpine Resort draws people to the valley year round
Dianne Hawkins says the community needs to diversify
Bryce Hansen notes that real estate sales are up in the Comox Valley and business is doing well
creates and encourages a platform for sharing best farm and economic practices, which further invigorates potential investment in our growing sector. From my cattle ranching perspective, it is great to see the Comox Valley Economic Development Society (CVEDS) taking the lead to secure the show in partnership with great regional partners who understand the importance and impact that such a show will have on our region, in its ability to showcase both our progressive agricultural production and our leading edge farmers.” CVEDS has also secured the 2015 Islands Agriculture Show to be hosted in the Comox Valley.
“The amount of available agricultural land base, local climate, soils and water make it possible to grow a wide range of agrifood products,” said Gary Rolston, CVEDS agricultural development officer. “In 2001 there were 445 farms producing $26.6 million, but successful marketing and promotion of the Comox Valley as an agrifood destination has resulted in 34% growth and a significant increase in product diversity. Investors are increasingly recognizing the untapped potential of the agrifood industry in the Comox Valley, and as a result, we are seeing business startup and expansion in affiliated sectors including aquaculture,
agritourism, and value added production occurring.” T he Comox Valley has also launched a campaign developed to support the long-term success of its largest economic generator, 19 Wing Comox. The initiative was created in response to the Federal Governments’ Request for Proposal for the Fixed Wing Search and Rescue (FWSA R) Replacement Project. The companies, which submit bids are expected to recommend locations for future operations, training and maintenance as part of their proposals. Potential bidders include Lockheed Martin, Airbus Group, and Boeing, among others.
COMOX VALLEY
NOVEMBER 2014
35 diversification could well include the technology sector. At one time the Comox Valley was known as a resource based economy, she said. However, today men are flying to the oil patch to work and leaving their families at home. “We need to keep fa m i l ies together,” Hawkins said. “We need to build that unity in the community. We need to look outside the box for other opportunities and industries that could come to the Comox Valley.” She added that it is up to the community to decide where it wants to go in the future and questions need to be asked: “Where do we want to see the valley in five years? What do we want to be famous for – and then, how do we make that happen? When we use words like, ‘What do we want to be famous for?’ I think it inspires people to dream and I think the valley needs a vision. It is our visions and our dreams that keep us going.” North Island Hospital Project Update On August 7, Health Minister Terry Lake, Comox Valley MLA Don McRae and regional officials celebrated the ground breaking on the Comox Valley Hospital, part of the North Island Hospitals Project. Completion of the project is scheduled for 2017. The new Comox Valley Hospital Project & general health services sector economic quick facts are as follows: Con s t r uct ion cos t: $331.7 million Size: 39,800 square metres (approximately 428, 400 sq. ft.) # of Beds: 153 St. Joseph currently accounts for about 3%, and health care about 12%, of all jobs in the Valley Total income in the Valley reliant on health care is currently about $170 million per year (9% of all income), which will increase with a larger hospital Construction of the new hospital will result in 1150 direct & 820 indirect jobs in the Valley Sources: North Island Hospital Project, Statistics Canada
The village of Cumberland is a member of the thriving Comox Valley
”Investors are increasingly recognizing the untapped potential of the agrifood industry in the Comox Valley, and as a result, we are seeing business startup and expansion in affiliated sectors including aquaculture, agritourism, and value added production occurring.” GARY ROLSTON
Strathcona Park, a recreational behemoth, is in the Comox Valley’s back yard.
AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT OFFICER, COMOX VALLEY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SOCIETY
19 Wing Comox is one of three training centre location contenders, which also include 8 Wing Trenton, and 14 Wing Greenwood. Recognizing the opportunity and the threat to the region’s economy if the training centre were to be located elsewhere, CVEDS, and a dedicated volunteer technical working group, comprised of retired senior military officers, and representatives from the Comox Valley Airport, have developed a discussion paper that presents the Comox Valley and 19 Wing
Comox as the logical choice for the eventual location of a new FWSAR Training Centre. Additional input was also provided via the Vancouver Island Aerospace Group. “19 Wing Comox is the ideal location for this training, thanks to the aerodrome’s capacity, the synergies available with the existing Search and Rescue training facilities, and especially the mountainous and overwater training venues available yearround,” said Fred Bigelow CEO Comox Valley Airport. “Students who learn how to fly SAR missions here will be able to save lives anywhere,”
Current economic impacts for 19 wing include 1,000 regular force personnel, 120 reserves, 250 civilians employed, $65 million per year in wages, an operating budget of $100 million, and $10 million per years spent on local goods and services. More than 1,300 families love off base, contributing a significant amount to the tax base. Dianne Hawkins, president and CEO of the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce said that while many businesses in the Comox Valley are doing well, others are still recovering from the economic downturn of 2009. She said that
real estate is one area that seems to have picked up considerably especially in the more affordable housing segment. Tourism is also important to the valley, she said, but it can’t continue to be one of the main drivers of the economy. “I think that our community needs to diversify,” she said. “There are other things we need to do to draw people to the Comox Valley. Tourism is wonderful. This is a wonderful place to live, work, play and visit. We’ve got great properties for people to stay at. But tourism can’t just be one industry that carries the Comox Valley.” She added that
Airport Economic Impacts & Increased Services 14 new WestJet markets are opening up including increased flights to Calgary (YYC) at the Comox Valley Airport (YQQ) beginning on January 16th, 2014. The additional flights will result in an estimated 5% increase in passenger traffic year over year. Since opening in 2004, the Comox Valley Airport has grown to become a significant economic driver of the Comox Valley and North Vancouver Island: ■ 64% passenger grow th since opening in 2004 ■ 313,186 passengers served in 2013 ■ Supports 193 direct jobs ■ $367 million in GDP & $701 million in direct economic output generated by the airport and tourism business community
36
NOVEMBER 2014
Palladian Developments projects take them around the province
Nelson congratulates new branch manager
W
e, at Nelson Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd would like to congratulate Rob Curts on his recent promotion to Branch Manager at our Corporate Head Office location in Cumberland B.C. Rob has been with Nelson Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd for 20 years. With his strong knowledge in Flat Roofing, and being a Roofing Journeyman – Rob brings invaluable knowledge and experience with him, to his new role in the company. Many of you may know Rob as our Senior Estimator / Project Manager /and general go to guy (when you have a roofing question) for the Commercial Flat Roofing division of Nelson Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd. You will
be pleased to hear that Rob will still be involved with this division of the company and available to assist in future commercial projects.
From all of us at Nelson Roofing & Sheet Metal Ltd – Congratulations Rob, there is no doubt that you will be very successful in your new role!
Chris Cross, right, of Palladian Developments, receives a Merit Award for their Veridian project in Vernon from Ken McLaughlin of Re/MAX Commercial in Kelowna October 23.
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ext stop, Campbell River. Na n a i mo-ba sed Pa l lad ia n Developments Inc. has been b u i ld i n g p roj e c t s t h ro u g h o ut t h e province, but one of their latest projects is just up the road on Vancouver # & *3 Island. Palladian has been chosen by 5 7 " OJD % DMJ M 08 the Vancouver Island Health AuthorB 3 JD Z $ FE JOEVTUS 3% Nundertake ity to the Campbell River $0 O T & P J 3 U DUJ x KFD POTUSV Hospital site works contract. P S D Q O UIF OE TMB J phase of the project was let in FTU This S * FX XPNFO WF O PV S D O JT OE GP adva nce of the major hospita l conB 7B B ) SPV s t r u c t ion p roje c t, a n d i n c lu d e d a OO LT H %P BJT CSFB phased construction program to pre) % pare in advance for the major Hospi* &/5 " 5. tal construction works. It included 4 & /7 UZ / * the construction of two tempora ry STJ 0 4 OU F VOJWF $6 F 0 I E gravel parking lots for staff parking, ' J P U T U x U F NFO QSreconfiguration U the of the ambulance FX DPNNJ Oaccess H T road, and related underground PO F S B J U D S DUP VO T B T 7J OP YQSFTTF servicing, the installation of two new O JD B TFMT F modular office buildings to provide 67NJF $BT temporary space for staff during the +B / 4 0 3 transition prior to the major hospital & 5/8 */ contract, and the demolition and re 7 4 TT *& OF &3 VTJ construction of the Sunshine Wellness B C &8 O 3 # MPX x Centre. ,F O FTU HB F 8 OB [ J B M is an award winning cusB L UPalladian 0 FWJ PO QT 8PPLT UP Stom homebuilder that has been recogO PN I M X 5 UP UJPO nized by the home building industry XO CPSB %PFX DPMMB with 30 Silver C.A.R.E. Awards and 7 / Gold C.A.R.E. Awards for its work on * *&4 Vancouver Island. -*$ 0 1 /5 Their Veridian multi-family project .& / 3 7& in Vernon won a Merit Award in the 0 ( x SZ Southern Interior Construcrecent OB P J MVU UFHZAssociation Z Commercial Building WPtion B U MMF 7B SF O TUS SFS JO FO T FS T P S Awards for the Thompson, Okanagan F MP TTJN U P F 'SB O Z J HS VJTN EPMPSUJ Kootenay regions. P HMF OGJFMESBFTTFB RU Eand O -B PX EJU Q UJT FS “Pa l lad ia n Developments project CS OJN JVT
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ma nagers have yea rs of ex perience w it h c om merci a l , i ndu s t r i a l civ i l a nd mu lti- fa m i ly residentia l proj e c t s ,� n o t e s o w n e r C h r i s C r o s s . “O u r m a n agement tea m ca n g u ide the client through the project management process, to develop plans, drawings, scopes of work, and obtain trade pricing for the proposed project. Pa l lad ia n Developments prov ides Commercial General Contracting construction services. “We have a full complement of qualified superintendents, carpenters, concrete formworks capacity, and our own civil site servicing division,� Cross adds. “We a re C.O.R . certi fied, we have ‘Rel iabi l ity Status’ for works with Public Works and Government Services Canada, we are an approved contractor for Lower Mainland Health, BC Housing, BC Hydro, and we are IS Networld Certified.� Palladian takes pride in the quality of products and the quality of skill that goes into everything it does. “We keep an eye on technology and the future, using continuing education and local and provincial associations to keep on top of and ahead of what is coming up,� says Cross, adding their employees a re G old Sea l Cer t i f ied through the Canadian Construction Association. Pa l l ad i a n i s a st rong com mu n ity supporter of a number of worthwhile projects, and Cross is President of the Vancouver Island Raiders junior football team, based in Nanaimo. www.palladian.ca
CAMPBELL RIVER
NOVEMBER 2014
John Hart wins National Gold Award
T
he Canadian Council for Public-Private Partnerships (CCPPP) announced the 2014 recipients of the National Awards for Innovation and Excellence in Public-Private Partnerships (P3s). “The Council’s Awards Program has become increasingly competitive, which really speaks volumes about the calibre of the projects selected,” stated Mark Romoff, President and CEO of CCPPP. This year’s award winners will be bringing Canadians safe, clean drinking water; improving wastewater management; developing clean, reliable sources of energy; improved transportation routes; modern, consolidated judicial services; and cutting-edge health care facilities that are focused on the patients. These projects are delivered to the highest quality standards, while providing substantial savings and efficiencies over traditional procurement methods. «With 219 P3 projects across the country delivering consistent strong resu lts, Ca nada is solidifying its record as best in class,» added Mr. Romoff. The awards were presented on November 3rd at The Council’s annual conference. The industry’s premier P3 event attracts government and industry leaders
PHOTO CREDIT: BCHYDRO.COM
from across Canada and around the world. BC Hydro’s John Hart Generating Station Replacement Project (Project Financing) was the Gold Award winner. Construction of this $1.093 billion project began in March 2014 to replace the 67-year-old John Hart generating station to deal with earthquake preparedness, reliability and environmental issues. The annual generation capacity increases from supplying about 74,000 homes to about 80,000 homes. Financing for this project is a unique combination of funding with a sole equity provider and debt financing made up of a short-term loan and 19-year bond from the private sector in addition to the $700M from BC Hydro. An additional innovation is that this facility is being built completely underground and the
CAMPBELL RIVER COLLEEN EVANS o wrap up 2014 we are pleased to introduce a new holiday event – the Chamber’s Jingle Mingle, to show our appreciation for our members and welcome local business in our community. We hope that you will be able to join us for the evening. The ‘Holiday Jingle Mingle’ will take place Thursday, December 4th 5:00 – 7:00 PM at the Museum at Campbell River. There will be delicious appetizers, wine and spirits, fantastic prizes and great networking. We will be hosting the
property will better support the surrounding Elk Falls Provincial Park. Silver Award went to North Island Hospitals Project (Infrastructure Sustainability Award). The Comox Valley Hospital and the Campbell River Hospital are now under construction in response to rising demand for health services on north and mid-Vancouver Island. The LEED Gold standard facility is the first time a green bond has been used to fund a public-private partnership project in North America and the first time a green bond has been issued to finance public infrastructure in Canada. The 32.3-year bond raised $231.5 million, and was oversubscribed by investors, setting an impressive benchmark for future investments in green infrastructure in the province.
Jingle Mingle at the Campbell River Museum from 5:00 – 7:00 PM on Thursday, December 4th. Go to www.campbellriverchamber.ca/events to register today! P re-reg i st rat ion i s requ i red . T h i s e v e n t i s $ 1 0 f o r C h a m b e r M e mbers a nd $20 for Futu re Members. Please bring a non-perishable food item for donation to the Campbell River Food Bank. Interested in donating a prize? Donating a prize or auction item can be effective and affordable way to enhance your business profile. Please confirm if you would like to donate a prize by emailing admin@campbellriverchamber.ca or by calling 250-2874636 by Wednesday, November 26th. Please let us know what you will be donating so that we can begin promoting your prize or auction donation immediately. On behalf of the Campbell River Chamber, we hope that 2014 has been a prosperous year for you! Colleen Evans is executive director of the Campbell River Chamber of Commerce and can be reached at 250-287-4513.
Coming next month: Industry in Focus
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Toll Free: 1-866-758-2684 Contact Shawn Bishop Contact +PTI )JHHJOT shawn@businessvi.ca
NORTHERN ROPES & Industrial Supply Ltd.
Industrial & Safety Supplies Fire Ext. Charging & Testing, Complete Wire Rope Rigging Shop
HOLIDAY JINGLE MINGLE
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joTI@businessvi.ca
Vancouver Island
Campbell River, B.C.
Courtenay, B.C.
Ph: 250-286-1027 Fx: 250-286-1024
Ph: 250-334-3707 Fx: 250-334-3721
COWICHAN VALLEY
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NOVEMBER 2014
AWARD-WINNING AUTO SHOP A FINALIST FOR A BBB TORCH AWARD Then there’s the experience of picking up the vehicle once the repairs have been done. “The car will be washed and vacuumed,” Mellson said. “The interior and tires are going to be shined; the wheels will be polished up. We have two full-time detailers.” As a matter of fact, Mellson noted that a couple of times, customers have brought their repaired vehicles back several months later, just to get them detailed – and the shop has done it – at no charge. He said it’s that kind of customer service that has people telling their family and friends about Cowichan Collision. It also has people writing to the shop to express their gratitude.
SPOTLIGHT
Cowichan Collision has been serving the community for almost 50 years
A
t Cowichan Collision Ltd., success rests on service – and great service has led to outstanding customer satisfaction and industry awards celebrating that satisfaction. L a s t ye a r, M itchel l I nternational presented Cowichan Collision with the 12th anniversary AutocheX Premier Achiever Award (PAA) trophy and Award Certificate. The annual Premier Achiever Awards honour auto body shops that consistently achieve extremely high customer satisfaction scores as measured by AutocheX either independently or as part of an insurance-sponsored repair program. Shop owner Ron Mellson recalled the day he was informed that he was a winner. “ICBC really monitors what you do and they phone your customers through an independent survey company – and we won for excellence in customer service. The fellow from ICBC told me, ‘You have won,’ and I said, “I haven’t actually won anything – we have won. There’s no ‘I’ around here. I walked into the lunchroom
Experienced technicians do superb work to bring vehicles back to “as new” and told them and the crew was high-fiving each other. It was great.” Mellson went on to accept the award on behalf of his team. “It’s quite an achievement to win that award,” he said. “All you have to do is give excellence in customer service. Really, it all boils down to good, old-fashioned service.” Following on the heels of the AutocheX award, Cowichan Collision is now nominated for an outstanding service award in the Better Business Bureau’s annual Torch awards. Mellson said he has
no idea who nominated the shop, but once again, it’s a surprise and an honour. “It’s just great,” he said. “I’ve go t a n a w e s o m e c re w.” H e noted that great customer service starts the minute someone walks through the door. People are greeted and helped instantly. Next comes an inspection of the work required, and then everything necessary is handled seamlessly. If the vehicle is driveable, the customer comes back on the appointed repair day. If not, the
Blacky's Auto Recycling Ltd. Serving Vancouver Island Since 1960
work receives priority, but the shop also takes care of car rental arrangements or drives the customer where he or she needs to go. “Everything you might need is arranged,” Mellson said. “We’ll arrange a ride home; we’ll pick you up and drop you off. If you don’t need a car but you have a medical appointment or something of that nature, we’ll pick you up and take you to your appointment. We’ve even taken people grocery shopping. It’s a small community and we care.”
“Thank you so much for making my BMW 325CI look great again... it looks like it just came out of the factory. You certainly ‘Wowed’ me with your great service and very friendly staff. Your company is the one I will recommend!” ~ Lori O, Duncan BC “Awesome job, and faster than expected!” ~ Alan M, Crofton BC “Thanks so much for doing such a great job on my 2008 Tundra. From my first contact with your friendly, helpful office staff right through to getting into
member 30 Year
Congratulations Cowichan Collision on a Job Well Done 250 748 0341 • www.blackys.com Trans-Canada Hwy Duncan
Exceptional service has earned Cowichan Collision the coveted AutocheX award
1 800 567 2557
www.bcautowrecking.com
Congratulations from all of us at BC Auto Wrecking
COWICHAN VALLEY
NOVEMBER 2014
39
“All you have to do is give excellence in customer service. Really, it all boils down to good, oldfashioned service.” RON MELLSON OWNER, COWICHAN COLLISION LTD.
Cowichan Collision is trusted by fire departments, police departments, the DND and the community and driving away in my expertly repaired and immaculately detailed vehicle, it’s obvious that everyone associated with your company takes great pride in their work and that you are in the business of providing first rate service to your customers.” ~ Gregg W, Lake Cowichan BC “Big thanks for once again doing a fantastic job on a vehicle of mine. You guys rock!” ~ Tinker Computers, Duncan BC
“I like to think I’m extremely honest,” Mellson said. It’s par for the course for Mellson and the technicians in the shop to go the extra mile. If they notice some scratches that need polishing, for instance, and that weren’t part of the repair work, they’ll simply do it free of charge. The shop has been providing that kind of service since 1965 when it was founded by Mellson’s father, Hugh Mellson. He had been managing a shop in Victoria when he decided to strike
out on his own. In the summer of 1967, after two years of commuting, he moved his entire family to Duncan. At that time, Mellson’s brother, Rick, joined the business. Ron started working at the shop in 1977 and began running it along with his brother in 1980. “My whole life was about auto body,” Mellson said. Rick retired in 2011 and this January, Mellson’s son, Russell will become a partner. 2015 will prove to be a year to celebrate, not just because the third generation of Mellsons
will be operating the shop, but also for the shop’s 50th anniversary. Mellson said that if the last party they had on the occasion of the shop’s 45th anniversary is anything to go by, it should be quite a celebration. As the years go by, the shop’s reputation has continued to grow. “It’s all about old-fashioned service,” he said, adding that the crew is also extremely adept. His eight technicians are young, eager to work and highly skilled. Cowichan Collision looks after the fire trucks from Nanaimo and even Victoria. It handles work for police cars, ambulances and
DND vehicles from Comox and Esquimalt. “That’s our reputation,” Mellson said. He added that when his son joins the company, expansion plans will go ahead. They plan to add a new office and lunchroom as well as additional storage to the main building as well as adding a building to the lot. Father and son also want to open a second location in the Nanaimo area. “We’re making it happen,” Mellson said. Cowichan Collision is at 5194 Mearns Road in Duncan. www.cowichancollision.com
Mill Bay
Proud supporter of Cowichan Collision
From all of us,
Congratulations
250.748.1426 Duncan, BC
250.245.1429 Ladysmith, BC Cowichan Collision has earned its stellar reputation over almost 50 years of service
Toll Free: 1.800.818.5703 | info@plcpa.ca
250-734-1552 www.millbaytowing.com
COWICHAN VALLEY
40
NOVEMBER 2014
Change and growth are the future for Buckerfield’s Store is building on its proud 90 plus year history BY GOODY NIOSI
W
herever and whenever a Buckerfield’s store has opened, whether in Duncan, Nanaimo, Salmon Arm or West Kelowna, it has quickly become part of the community. The company has been doing business, growing and evolving for more than 90 years. Today it is still true to its roots as a feed store, but it is also so much more. It provides food for livestock and pets, gardening and landscaping supplies, beekeeper supplies, cookware, outdoor clothing and even toys fro children. Kelvin McCulloch, president of Buckerfields Ltd. sums it all up this way: “Buckerfield’s is a place for people who enjoy the outdoors – who are growing things and caring for things.” Buckerfield’s was founded by Ernest Buckerfield, who grew up on a farm near Moncton. In 1890 he arrived in Vancouver and began working as a salesman for his uncle’s grain company. A few years later, he established his own feed and flour business; in 1919 he joined with Frederick T. Vernon, eventually becoming a partner in the firm of Vernon & Buckerfield. Vernon and Buckerfield expanded gradually in the 1920s, absorbing other small millers. Buckerfields Limited was established in 1927 after Frederick Vernon retired from the business. Expansion continued through the 1930s and the firm soon became the largest feed company in British Columbia. In 1951 Ernest Buckerfield was hospitalized and did not believe he would survive
The newly renovated Duncan Store carries everything for caring for gardens, pets and livestock
“It’s an ongoing program: continuous improvement, continuous growth, continuous innovation in our product.” KELVIN MCCULLOCH PRESIDENT, BUCKERFIELDS LTD.
more than a few weeks. He sent a message to Federal Grain owner and president Harry Sellers, asking him to buy the company. After some consideration, it was decided that two Winnipeg-based, family owned firms, Pioneer Grain and Federal Grain, would purchase equal parts of the company. Soon after the purchase Ernest Buckerfield
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Andrew Gent, Kevin McCulloch and Robert Andersen and working partners of Buckerfields Ltd. recovered and continued as president until his retirement several years later. In 1965, Pioneer Grain acquired complete ownership of Buckerfields. The company was acquired from Pioneer Grain in February of 2005 by five shareholders with a vision to reestablish a retail chain of stores under the Buckerfield’s banner. Those shareholders are Kelvin McCulloch, Robert Andersen, Andrew and Barb Gent, Peter Baldry, and Gary Jacobs. All but the last two are involved in the operations of the company. McCulloch had returned as an international consultant from Europe in 2005 when he became acquainted with the managers who wanted to buy Buckerfield’s. At the time the company owned six stores. Today, it owns eight stores. “We certainly envisioned what we have today,” McCulloch said. “And we’re not in any way finished with growing and building the company and transforming it. It’s an ongoing program: continuous improvement, continuous growth, continuous innovation in our product.” In 2005 the company was maintaining itself without any expectation of strong growth. Since 2005, sales have increased 300%. Shortly after the partners bought Buckerfields, they sold the Courtenay store and opened stores in Salmon Arm, Abbotsford and West Kelowna. All the stores are doing well, McCulloch said, with the Abbotsford location being a useful conduit for imports from the United States. Buckerfield’s remains competitive due to several factors. “I would say that we have one of the best levels of customer service that people will find,” McCulloch said. “Our staff know more about the product than other staff do at other stores.”
Director of marketing Robert Andersen added that staff have a background in what they are selling. “They’re experienced and they are able to help you when you come in with a question, whether it’s about about fertilizer or a horse blanket.” The stores also have a wider selection in the products they carry that many other stores. Andersen pointed out that the store pays attention to the flyers produced by its competition and makes sure that its prices are in line. Moving forward, McCulloch said, “We certainly intend to have more stores and larger stores. We also intend to have a much more positive Internet and social media presence that we have now.” Andersen said that Buckerfield’s reaches the public through hundreds of thousands of flyers, which are the backbone of its advertising. However, with the imminent launch of a dynamic new website, Buckerfield’s will be able to reach even more people. It’s annual community events like Pet Photos with Santa have also been a significant part of the community. “We don’t want to go away from our history,” Andersen said. “But we want to have facilities that are attractive and we want to continue to hire people based on their ability to impart their knowledge.” The significance of Ernest Buckerfield’s contribution to the business community of Western Canada was recently reaffirmed in print when the story of his life appeared as a section of David Mitchell’s book B.C.’s Business leaders of the Century. And although he died in 1971, the legacy of the business he founded continues to flourish. Buckerfields Ltd. is at 5410 Trans Canada Highway in Duncan. www.buckerfields.org
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NOVEMBER 2014
SELL TODAY, EDUCATE TOMORROW
SALES JOHN GLENNON
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ave yo u e ve r g ive n a presentation to a prospect who seemed ready to buy … but found that, for some mysterious reason, the op p or t u n it y went nowhere once you r presentation was complete? Maybe before your big meeti n g, yo u we re ge t t i n g o n ly “green light” signals from the prospect. Maybe you decided that, because things seemed to be going so well, and because you’d done such g reat work up to th is poi nt i n the sa le, you were goi ng to go a l l out and share everything you had in your arsenal – even adding some new “bells and whistles” that the prospect had not seen before, but was sure to love. Maybe you thought the presentation went quite well. Maybe you expected a “yes” answer on the spot. W hy, then, d id the prospect tell you that it all seemed very interesting, that there was a lot to think about, that the two of you would be
in touch? Why did the sale feel further away at the end of your presentation than it did at the beginning? One possible explanation: In your excitement to go all out for this prospect, you threw in new elements, new features, new benefits, new pricing, or even entirely new solutions. You added one or more topics of conversation that the prospect had never discussed with you before. And when you did that, you gave the prospect the best reason in the world to postpone a decision: too much information. If you had left the educating for after the close, you’d have been better off. Many salespeople make the mistake of believing that one of the objectives of a presentation is to educate the prospect in all the various aspects of the solution, even those that have played no role in the discussion up to this point. Actually, there should be only one objective for a formal presentation—secure a buying decision. If you have effectively qualified this opportunity—discovered what the prospect wants, why he or she wants it, all the budget issues, and all relevant aspects of the decision process—the only thing left to do is close the sale. How? By demonstrating to the prospect how specific features of the product or service address the specific issues (and only those issues) uncovered earlier in the selling process.
T he presentation is not the place to introduce other features or benefits of the product or serv ice that were not previously discussed or don’t specifically address the needs and wants of the prospect. Yet, many salespeople do just that— bring up additional features and benefits, often in an attempt to demonstrate “added value.” What they actually do is introduce added confusion –which leads to a “think-it-over” response. That means no decision and no sale! Avoid the temptation to throw in lots of new information. Even one piece of new information about a featu re, ser v ice, or plan that is unfamiliar to the prospect is enough to stall your forward momentum with the prospect. Don’t try to educate tod ay. Sel l tod ay! A f ter the prospect becomes a client or customer, you can take all the time you want to educate him or her on other aspects of your product or service. Cop y r i g ht 201 4 Sa nd ler T ra i n i n g a nd I n si g ht Sa le s Consu lti ng I nc. A l l rights reserved. John Glennon is the owner of Insight Sales Consulting Inc, the authorized Sandler Training Licensee for the Interior of British Columbia. He can be reached at jglennon@sandler. com, toll free at 1-866-645-2047 or visit www.glennon.sandler. com
PATENTING GENES
INVENTING ANNE FLANAGAN
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fter years of the US Patent Office granting patents for human genes, it appears that human genes may no longer be patentable. This is good news for some and bad news for others. It is good news for those people who do not agree that something produced by nature should be patentable. Some say it is good news for patients as well. It is bad news for biotechnology companies - potentially very bad news. The US Supreme Court recently ruled that two cancer-associated genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2, owned by Myriad Genetics, are not patentable. Biotech companies fear that this will be extended to all genes, and potentially proteins as well. After all, there is no reason why it would be restricted to just human genes. Such an outcome could be catastrophic for both agricultural and medical biotech companies. While the ruling seems clear and potentially very broad reaching, there are complications. The main complication is that the ruling pertains only to “natural human
genes”. Genes that have been modified are not included. Some researchers contend that the mere removal of a gene from the genome constitutes modification. This clearly is not the case. What about synthetic DNA? Synthetic DNA is made in labs routinely by complementary DNA synthesis to produce cDNA or by chemical synthesis. If that DNA is exactly the same as the natural DNA - is it modified DNA? Do the researchers have to put in changes to the DNA to modify it so that it is no longer “natural”? If they do, how much change is needed? While the researchers are scratching their heads, wondering how to make gene sequences that can function in the desired manner, while being different enough from the natural gene sequences to be patentable, US patent attorneys are scratching their heads. They are waiting for the US Patent Office to interpret the Myriad decision. So far, the Patent Office has issued a memo indicating that human gene patents will no longer be granted. As this suggests, the interpretation will probably be in favour of disallowing human gene patents unless they are “modified genes”, the patent attorneys are trying to come up with alternative ways to patent genes. All in all, what appears to be a clear ruling has left biotech companies and their patent attorneys in a mess. Anne Flanagan is the principal at Alliance Patents. She can be reached at anne.flanagan@ alliancepatents.com
BC PROVINCIAL SALES TAX RULING FOR SMALL SUPPLIERS
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f you have businesses in BC or make sales to customers within BC, it is important to know that collecting and remitting PST is mandatory for most businesses regardless of whether you are registered with the ministry or not. However, some businesses are not required to do so. N o n -T a x a b l e S a l e s a n d Services In general, when products are taxable when purchased, the services provided with those products are also taxable. However, certain sales and services are non-taxable and thus collecting and remitting PST are exempted: ■ Sa les of rea l proper ty, such as residential houses and commercial real estate ■ A d m i ssion a nd memberships ■ P ro fe s s i o n a l s e r v i c e s other tha n lega l serv ic e s; e x a mple s i nclu d e accounting services, l a nd sc api n g, or hou se painting without the sale of taxable products to your customers ■ T ra n s p o r t a t i o n , s u c h as bus, train, ferry, and airfare
Registering for PST with the ministry is optional, but once you have registered PST, you are subject to collecting and remitting PST and no longer considered to be a small supplier Small Sellers You a re considered to be a small seller if you meet all of the following criteria: ■ You are in BC; ■ You do not sell vehicles, b oats, a i rcra f t, l iquor (except under a special occasion license), or accommodation in the ord i na r y routi ne of you r business; ■ You do not sell eligible goods and services in a physical shop; ■ Yo u a r e n o t a l e s s e r, an independent sales
Joyce Smith, President and CEO of JA Smith and Associates contractor (see below), or other contractors, such as an installation contractor, and ■ Your previous total annual gross revenue from all retail sales of eligible goods, software and services is no more tha n $10,000, and your reasonable estimated total gross revenue for next year is $10,000 or less. Small suppliers do not charge or collect PST on sales, but they still need to pay PST on purchasing products for resale.
Registering for PST with the ministry is optional, but once you have registered PST, you are subject to collecting and remitting PST and no longer considered to be a small supplier. Independent Sales Contractors (ISCs) An independent contractor is a freelancer or self-employed person who provides services or sells products to a company or individual under terms specified in a contract or within a verbal agreement. Before going into more detail about ISCs, the definitions of exclusive products as well as direct sellers need to be clarified. Exclusive products refer to those products that you acquire, manufacture, or produce and then are sold to the end users. A direct seller is someone who sells exclusive products to ISCs and does not regularly sell taxable products to retail stores. You are an ISC if you meet both of the following criteria: ■ You make purchases from a direct seller or another ISC for the purpose of resale or personal use, and you are not an employee or agent of this direct seller,
and; Yo u s el l t h e e xc lu s ive p ro d u c t s a t yo u r o w n residence, a non-commercial place, or a temporary place. ■ You should note that a direct seller is subject to PST collection and remittance, but an ISC is not. However, as with small sellers, ISCs are required to pay PST when they purchase exclusive products from a direct seller or another ISC. Please note that if you do not file your PST returns and make the full payment by the due date, you may get a penalty, interest, and lose the commission from remitting PST on time. If you are still not sure whether you have to collect and pay PST, please ask for professional advice from your accountant. ■
J.A. Smith & Associates Inc. is a team of dedicated professionals who provide reliable accounting, financial management and tax services to businesses and individual. They can be reached at 1-800-343-6133
42
NOVEMBER 2014
LED LIGHTING INCREASING IN POPULARITY, DECREASING OPERATING COSTS
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aving the right lighting is one of the most important choices that a business can make when it comes to energy efficiency in a small business. Not only that, it also helps create a better setting for employees and customers. For several years, the owners of the eco-toy store Dilly Dally Kids wanted to use LED lighting in its East Vancouver store, but couldn’t find a product that produced the warm light they were looking for. All that changed last year, when they switched three dozen MR16 halogen track lights to LEDs for savings estimated at about about 2,500 kWh per year. With a $312 rebate from BC Hydro on the purchase of the LEDs, the owners expect to pay back their investment on the upgrade i n just 18 months. A nd they solved two problems they had with the track lighting: frequent burnout and the extra, unwanted, heat produced by the halogen lights. T he Dilly Dally K ids story underlines both the importance of selecting the right lighting option, and the increasing popularity of LEDs, which have dropped in price by 85% over
the last five years. LEDs are especially suited as a replacement for traditional incandescent or halogen screw-in bulbs. Replacing traditional bulbs is a fairly simple upgrade for most businesses, and the payback can be less than a year, thanks to Power Smart incentives on efficient lamps. Plus, LEDs have dropped in price an average of 85% over the past five years and are now available in a wide variety of shapes. But even if a business is replacing high pressure sodium la mps or h igh-bay l ighti ng, LEDS offer increased energy efficiency and a longer lifespan than older lighting technologies. That longer lifespan means that you need to replace lamps less often, reducing maintenance costs. To find out which LEDs might work in a business, companies can start by looking at the available product incentives to see which LED incentives are available for the type of lighting that is being considered to be replaced. BC Hydro offers an e.Catalog to see all the available LED incentives. There is also an LED screw-in lamps tip sheet which
YOUR NEXT BUILDING CAN IMPACT MORE THAN JUST THE SKYLINE. Looking for new ways to build better? BC Hydro Power Smart’s New Construction Program can provide energy modeling funds to help you identify energy-saving measures that will lower operating expenses and increase the value and marketability of your building. For more information visit bchydro.com/construction.
A13-531
shows if a project is eligible for incentives, as not all replacements are (e.g. replacing CFLs with LEDs). They also offer information about screw-in LEDs, and have Power Smart lighting experts ready to address frequently asked questions.
The dollar savings ad up. In the past, business owners have received an average incentive of $3,174 by implementing an energy efficient upgrade project, like lighting. The incentive, plus the money saved on energy bills each year, means companies can
reinvest back into what matters most – the business. T he Power Sm a r t E x press prog ra m prov ides BC bu sinesses with incentives for implementing energy efficiency upgrade projects. www.bchydro.com/express.
OFF THE COVER
NOVEMBER 2014
43
FARM RAISED SALMON CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
second only to shrimp – and the number is growing. Meanwhile, the Asian market is clamouring for BC farmed salmon. “There is a vast market in Asia that we are currently not serving,” Dunn said. “This is an industry that BC can look at as a true growth industry.” The Namgis First Nation’s venture into closed containment salmon farming has shown very promising results. They were able to bring their pilot project to market at market prices and they’ve got a willing buyer in Safeway for every fish they can produce – and that means they are also creating jobs for their youth. Wristen said that the initial capital outlay for a closed containment operation is more than for a traditional open net pen farm, but lower operational costs make up for that. And every major grocery chain in Canada has taken on the Sea Choice program that is dedicated to selling only sustainable seafood, which includes closed containment farmed salmon. Wristen said that the business of closed containment farming is growing. “Market demand is really going to fuel the growth in that. Salmon from open net pens is still red listed whereas the closed containment salmon has just received a green listing – so that’s going to drive things.” James Walkus of James Walkus Fishing Company Ltd. in Port Hardy believes that farmed and wild salmon can thrive side by side. Walkus’ fleet of 10 boasts, including a new 105-footer, divides its time between fishing for wild salmon and transporting farmed salmon from open net pen farms to Port Hardy. He said that there simply aren’t enough wild fish to fill the consumer demand. However, that doesn’t mean that wild stocks are declining, he said. “Four years ago there were more sockeye than we’ve ever had. And then, this year again, we had a tremendous run of sockeye.” He added that fish farming is also important to the economy of Vancouver Island and all of BC. “I think the future for both farmed and wild salmon is very positive. We’re always trying to get our politicians to create jobs and the fish farm companies employ a lot of people and they employ companies like mine.” Dunn said there is an even bigger picture for the province to consider. “It’s not just farm raised salmon, but agriculture and aquaculture as a sector. We have great opportunities in our oceans
Karen Wristen says closed containment farms are economically sustainable
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Farmed salmon is in high demand and on our land to grow quality food that is recognized as extremely high end around the world. We’ve got great access to hungry markets. When people move from poverty into the middle class, they don’t first reach for an iPhone, they want to feed their families better, and that includes healthy protein that was out of their reach financially.” Fast Facts: BC Salmon Farming – Coastal Economic Engine: ■ In 2008, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) estimated that salmon farming in BC generates $800- Million each year towards the provincial economy. Through regulatory, policy and program reforms alone it could be generating over $1-Billion within the next five years. ■ The total BC salmon farming tenures remains unchanged since 2008 at 120, with 64-75 operating and 35-45 resting at any given time. ■ Currently about 80% of all salmon farmed in BC is exported – with the vast majority of that destined for markets in the United States. Approximately 10% of exports are destined for Asia. ■ BC salmon farmers are leading the way in achieving third-party certifications, continually developing
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high fish health and environmental monitoring practices, and leading the world in their commitment to transparency of information sharing. Farm-raised salmon has the highest landed and wholesale value for a seafood sector produced in BC. In 2008, PwC estimated that salmon farming in BC accounted for 6,000 direct, indirect, and induced jobs. Today’s number is likely lower as a result of stagnated growth, however the opportunity to exceed it is extremely achievable within two to
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three years. 775 people are directly employed by BC’s four largest salmon farming companies. 30% of the total direct employment of BC’s four largest salmon farming companies is First Nations, representing 240 direct First Nations jobs. $36.8-Million is the total gross combined payroll of BC’s four largest salmon farming companies. $22 is the average hourly wage paid by BC’s four largest salmon farming companies. $237.8-Million is the total collective value of the service and supply contracts of BC’s four largest salmon farming companies.
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PORT MCNEILL
44 COMOX VALLEY
PORT MCNEILL
Mount Washington Announces New Partnerships
Government and ‘Namgis First Nation Announce Runof-the-River Hydroelectric Development
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i t h w i n te r q u i c k ly approaching, Mount Washington has made some partnership moves before the snow sta r ts f ly i ng. Rockstar Energy Drink and Vancouver Island Brewery (Operations and Marketing. “From new beer to a rebranded terrain park with new COMOX VALLEY HEADLINE: Mount Washington Announces New Partnerships With winter quickly approachi ng, Mount Washington h a s made some partnership moves before the snow starts flying. Rockstar Energy Drink and Vancouver Island Brewery (VIB) will be partnering with the Resort this winter to create memories for visitors. “These new partnerships will increase the amount of promotions and events taking place at Mount Washington,” explains Don Sharpe, Director of Business Operations and Marketing. “From new beer to a rebranded terrain park with new features, we’re very excited to be working with these new partners.” Vancouver Island Brewery, Vancouver Island’s flagship craft brewery since 1984, will be unveiling a new brew with a Mount Washington twist this fall. The brewery will also be running Island-wide retail promotions
NOVEMBER 2014
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The terrain park at Mount Washington will be transformed into the Rockstar Terrain Park this coming season. PHOTO CREDIT: MOUNT WASHINGTON ALPINE RESORT
from October to January with an aim to give skiers and boarders the chance to win anything from season passes to lift tickets with mountain accommodation. The team at Rockstar Energy Drink have been working with Mount Washington’s terrain park crew over the last month to give the terrain park a new look a nd new featu res. T he
piece-de-resistance will be the new 24ft long Super Tubby Tank, a XL feature designed by Snow Park Solutions. New Rockstar park events, additional rails and improved flow will all be a major focus for the park this winter. Mount Washington Alpine Resort is located 30 minutes above The Comox Valley on Vancouver Island.
epa r t ment of Fi na nce Minister of Finance Joe Oliver a n nou nced t he Government of Canada’s support for the Kokish River Hydroelectric Project, through a P3 Canada Fund preferential loan of up to $12.94 million. This low-interest loan is the first of its kind in Canada and will help the ‘Namgis First Nation to build equity in the 45 megawatt run-of-the-river hydroelectric development located within ‘Namgis core territory. The infrastructure is producing electricity for sale to BC Hydro under a 40-year Electricity Purchase Agreement. A portion of the revenue generated each year will be directed into a ‘Namgis Community Benefit Fund. T his is the first P3 Canada Fund project with a First Nation and will be owned and managed by Kwagis Power LP, a limited partnership of the ‘Namgis First Nation and Brookfield Renewable Energy Partners, with Brookfield responsible for design, construction, financing, operations and maintenance, and ‘Namgis a
partner in decision making and monitoring. T he $1.2-billion P3 Canada Fund is managed by PPP Canada, a Crown corporation responsible for advancing Canadian public-private partnerships (P3s) through the provision of expert advice and support to all levels of government. “This innovative P3 project will allow the ‘Namgis First Nation to generate both energy and revenue while safeguarding North Vancouver Island’s ecosystem. It also means high-quality jobs will be available for people in the ‘Namgis community over the next 40 years,” says Oliver. “The Kokish River project embodies ‘Namgis values of respect for environment, culture and sound management. Through the P3 Canada Fund loan, we were able to establish a partnership with a corporation that shares our values. This partnership will enable our Nation to share in the economic benefits derived from our ancestral lands,” says Debra Hanuse, ‘Namgis First Nation Chief.
RURAL CHAMBERS HAVE UNIQUE CHALLENGES We are looking forward to the outcome of the Town of Port McNeill’s
Thank You
strategic planning and with anticipation, we are seeking
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strong communication, partnership and in short,
CHERYL JORGENSON
the economic success for
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those have chosen “rural
s a rural Chamber of Commerce, what affects the majority of city dwelling Chambers is not often the case up here in the woods. Being of an independent mindset in order to maintain business in the outlying districts is a given; self-reliance, a necessity. However what makes “this” really work is our relationships- at work and in the community. If you want to be Chamber cliché (kidding!), it’s about effect “networking”. The Port McNeill & District Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for a time of strategic planning and renewal. Chamber President David Mitchell stated recently, “As we prepare for “strategic planning in November, a key strategic goal needs to be: making our organization strong through the
modern living” in Port McNeill involvement of our members.” This is our goal and our membership is our priority. We are looking forward to the outcome of the Town of Port McNeill’s strategic planning and with anticipation, we are seeking strong communication, partnership and in short, the economic success for those have chosen “rural modern living” in Port McNeill. The Municipal All Candidates meeting played out to a standing room only venue in Port McNeill at the end of October. With long standing Mayor Gerry Furney stepping down, the meeting
hosted a roster of new and returning faces. Questions ranging from “how would you encourage and support enterprise (economic development)?” and “are you willing to think outside of the box?” were launched at our candidates. The focus was certainly on the two mayoral candidates with council candidates weighing on questions concerning possible expenditures and the Community forest. Port McNeill business has a keen eye on this month’s election results. A modest turn out took in LNG tour with LNG- Buy BC Gordon Wilson. The Port McNeill Chamber is ready to examine the possibility of related economy from LNG. Thank you to Gordon Wilson and team for making the effort. We will be looking forward to further development and consultation. With engaging in strategic planning and economic and tourism sector studies, the Port McNeill and District Chamber of Commerce is getting into position to move into 2015 with a clear focus and priority to serve our business community and membership. Cheryl Jorgenson is executive director of Port McNeill Chamber of Commerce and can be reached at 250-956-3131 or portmcneillchamber@telus.net
DUNCAN
NOVEMBER 2014
45
HAYES STEWART LITTLE & COMPANY CELEBRATES FOUR DECADES OF SERVICE SPOTLIGHT
Chartered Accountant firm covers Vancouver Island from Duncan head office
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rowing with their clients for 40 years. T h a t ’s w h a t ’s h a p p en i n g at Hayes Stewart Little & Company Chartered Accountants. Managing partner Dan Little puts it this way: “We only grow if our clients grow, and we’re growing.” In business since 1974, Hayes Stewart Little has five offices: in Duncan, Victoria and Nanaimo as well as a convenience office in Port Alberni and Vancouver. Their team now includes 25 professionals and a total team of over 50, offering a vast spectrum of services. “It creates a lot of opportunity when you have the number of professionals like we have,” says Little, who was raised in Victoria and joined the firm’s Duncan head office in 1987 out of university. “We did a client survey recently and the results were fantastic. It showed that we were doing the right things. The core services we offer, our foresight, looking towards the future and retirement, and the services we provide to our clients.” Hayes Stewart Little is much more than an accounting firm. Its extensive list of business management services includes evaluation of the efficiency and effectiveness of businesses, implementation of appropriate systems, budgeting and business plans, business development, book keepi ng, budget preparation and monitoring, financial statements analysis, fiscal year-end management, inventory management, performance monitoring and reporting for GST, WorkSafe and payroll.
The partners and principals of Hayes Stewart Little & Company Chartered Accountants It also offers full-cycle accounting management, which e n c o m p a s s e s a c c o u n t s receivable, accou nts payable, cash management. That is in add it ion to accou nt i ng a nd auditing, advisory services, succession a nd estate pla nning, business advisory services, business management and corporate restructuring and forensic accounting. Hayes Stewart Little is also affiliated with Price Waterhouse Coopers, which Little sees as another advantage for clients. “The Island is not large enough for another large firm, so it helps us to be affiliated with PWC for background support,” says Little. “It opens doors for our clients who have been dealing with us that have cross-border tax issues and need audit specialists. Through us and PWC, clients can take advantage of these services that are difficult to find on Vancouver Island.” The firm also belongs to JHI, an international association of independent mid-sized accounting firms located in 55 countries around the world, which gives them access to a wide array of technical resources and information on best
Managing Partner Dan Little practices. Joining Little as partners and principals of the firm are Tara Benham, Cara Light, David McNeill, Nancy McMahon, Janet Rowe a nd Mike Evans, Todd Humen, Kyman Chan, Marty Eakins and Chuck Chandler. Wo o dy Hayes, a fo u n d i n g partner of the firm, retired last year, but is still a regular in the Duncan office. “I think Woody’s idea of retirement is not working Sund ays,” jokes L itt le. “T h at’s
helpful for us.” Hayes Stewart Little has been making a difference at the provincial and national levels of their industry as well. Little is currently President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of BC, a position prev iously held by Hayes i n 1999-2000. Another partner, Chuck Chandler, followed Hayes in the post in 2000-2001. “Our firm has been very well represented at the provincial level,” says Little. “It’s been good for our firm, and it helps us monitor what is going on in our industry first hand.” Little is co-chair of the Transitional Steering Committee working towards merging the ICABC, the Certified General Accountants and the Certified Management Accountants under one umbrella, a process that started in 2011. “We were three small bodies on an international basis, but together, we’re now the fifth largest such organization in the world,” Little states, noting they’re now awaiting legislative approval in BC, which could come, possibly, this fall. “It’s been a really interesting process,” he says. “We’re
actually operating as a joint venture now through the Transitional Steering Committee, and I’m one of three co-chairs. We’re working towards a national education program. As if his own duties as a partner and the ICABC and transitional duties aren’t enough, Little also sits on the board of Island Savings Credit Union, which is currently working on merger under the First West Credit Union banner, which will include ISCU, Okanagan-based Valley First Credit Union, Envision Credit Union of the Fraser Valley, and Enderby Credit Union. Their insolvency practice is also growing, as the firm includes restructuring specialist David McNeill and Marty Eakins. Eakins, who is also experienced in fraud examination work (as is Little) possesses valuable skills to detect ‘white collar’ crime. “Being the largest independent accounting firm on Vancouver Island means a lot to us, but what does it mean to our clients? Our size offers a depth of expertise and a comprehensive range of services. Our independence allows us to offer a high level of personal service tailored to suit our clients’ needs.” www.hslco.com
1-250-746-8969
To your continued success Congratulations Hayes Stewart Little & Company on 40 years of business in Duncan. Cam McDiarmid Commercial Financial Services Tel: 250-746-2432 ® /™ Trademark(s) of Royal Bank of Canada. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. 30075 (01/2011)
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WHO IS SUING WHOM
46 WHO IS SUING WHOM The contents of Who’s Suing Whom is provided by a third-party resource and is accurate according to public court documents. Some of these cases may have been resolved by publication date. DEFENDANT 0700805 BC Ltd 200-7134 King George Hwy, Surrey, BC PLAINTIFF Windsor Building Supplies Ltd CLAIM $ 14,918 DEFENDANT 0776197 BC Ltd 2700 Beach Dr, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Acacia Landscaping Inc CLAIM $ 11,714 DEFENDANT 0952482 BC Ltd 225 Vancouver Ave, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Windsor Building Supplies Ltd CLAIM $ 14,918 DEFENDANT 0952482 BC Ltd 225 Vancouver Ave, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Windsor Building Supplies Ltd CLAIM $ 8,025
DEFENDANT 1953 Developments Ltd 225 Vancouver Ave, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Windsor Building Supplies Ltd CLAIM $ 14,918
PLAINTIFF Uncommon Cents Presentations Inc CLAIM $ 37,952 DEFENDANT Ashya Properties Ltd 6054 165TH St, Surrey, BC PLAINTIFF Windsor Building Supplies Ltd CLAIM $ 14,918
DEFENDANT Abstract Developments Inc 1976 Oak Bay Ave, Nanaimo BC PLAINTIFF Davison, John CLAIM $ 21,964
DEFENDANT Barak Enterprise Ltd 2700 Beach Dr, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Acacia Landscaping Inc CLAIM $11,714
DEFENDANT Amorous Homes Ltd 6054 165th St, Surrey, BC PLAINTIFF Windsor Building Supplies Ltd CLAIM $ 25,651
DEFENDANT BC Jade Designs 1-33 Manzanita Rd, Galiano Island, BC PLAINTIFF Yang, Ze CLAIM $ 25,156
DEFENDANT Amorous Homes Ltd 6054 165th St, Surrey, BC PLAINTIFF Windsor Building Supplies Ltd CLAIM $8,025
DEFENDANT CBS Prehung Doors Ltd 200-1260 Shoppers Row, Cambell River, BC PLAINTIFF Gentek Building Products Limited CLAIM $ 29,910
DEFENDANT Amorous Homes Ltd 6054 165th St, Surrey, BC PLAINTIFF Windsor Building Supplies Ltd CLAIM $ 15,080 DEFENDANT Artsee Eyewear Ltd 602-732 Broughton St, Victoria, BC
DEFENDANT Central Island Salvage Ltd 2530 Alberni Hwy, Coombs, BC PLAINTIFF Berk’s Intertruck Ltd
Client: McGregor & Thompson / Size: 9.8” X 6.2” / CMYK / BUSINESS EXAMINER
NOVEMBER 2014
CLAIM $ 10,385 DEFENDANT Century Group Constructors Inc 5150 Cordova Bay Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Wall To Wall Top To Bottom Cleaning Service CLAIM $ 12,608 DEFENDANT Davey Consulting & Agrology 2881 Virago Place, Ladysmith, BC PLAINTIFF Smith, Nolan CLAIM $ 25,216 DEFENDANT Davey Holdings Ltd 201-156 MORISON AVE, Parksville, BC PLAINTIFF Smith, Nolan CLAIM $ 25,216 DEFENDANT Duncan Tire (1999) Ltd 157 Trunk Rd, Duncan, BC PLAINTIFF Duncan Tire Ltd CLAIM $ 205,847 DEFENDANT Gartside Marine Engines Ltd 9830 4th St, Sidney, BC PLAINTIFF Kramar, Robert CLAIM
$ 5,216 DEFENDANT Macintosh Homes Ltd 505 5th St, Courtenay, BC PLAINTIFF Brooks, Steve CLAIM $9,336 DEFENDANT Mann’z Home Inspection 7250 144th St, Surrey, BC PLAINTIFF Sangha, Ranbir CLAIM $ 23,356 DEFENDANT Maximilian Huxley Building And Renovations 3295 Midland Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Slegg Construction Materials Ltd CLAIM $ 21,299 DEFENDANT Suzy’s Landlord Holdings Ltd 4192 Beckwith Place, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Bc Traditional Homes Ltd CLAIM $ 119,237 DEFENDANT Wc Eveson Holdings Ltd 301-830 Shamrock St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Canadian Western Bank CLAIM $ 978,972
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS ARCHITECTURAL HARDWARE CONSTRUCTION SPECIALTIES WASHROOM ACCESSORIES ELECTRONIC SECURITY DOORS & FRAMES LOCKERS
McGregor Thompson has been providing quality products to the construction industry for 50 years. Over that time, we’ve built relationships with clients, suppliers, and employees with honesty and respect, relationships that inspire and motivate us every day. For the past years and for all the years to come — thank you. We couldn’t have done it without you.
Visit our new Nanaimo distribution Centre and Show Room. 1920 Boxwood Road, Nanaimo, 250.729.7888
Find out more about us at www.mcgregor-thompson.com C A L G A R Y | K E L O W N A | N A N A I M O | S E A T T L E | VA N C O U V E R | V I C T O R I A
Version 1
MOVERS AND SHAKERS
NOVEMBER 2014
COWICHAN VALLEY Dr. Eric Meiner will be relocating to his new practice location on Brae Road in Duncan. White Light Marine has opened for business at 507 Louise Road in Ladysmith. Guy Bezeau has sold ReMax Ocean Pointe Realty in Ladysmith to a buyer from Saskatoon. Lurene Haines and Steve White will open the Stelur Eatery & Catering 1950’s style family diner in Ladysmith just after the annual Ladysmith lightup. The Community Farm Store celebrated the grand opening of its new location at 2-5380 TransCanada Highway. Coastal Community Credit Union congratulated Moira Hauk on being appointed as Regional Manager for its South Vancouver Island region. Flagship Ford congratulated David Faithful on achieving top sales for the month of September. Royal LePage Duncan Realty congratulated its top producers for the month of September, which includes: Laura Leppard, Wendy Mitton, Meredith Hood, Harvey Osborne, Elizabeth Biberger. Wendy Klyne of Royal LePage has announced her retirement from Real Estate effective at the end of October. Peter Baljet GM has announced the promotion of Dean McIlroy to Assistance Service Manager. The dealership congratulated its top performing sales associates for the month of September: Jerry Deol, Steve Aydon and Morgan Harrison. Pemberton Holmes announced its top five individual producers for the month of September, which includes: Dan Johnson, Catherine Hobbs, Shannon Roome, Ray Little, Ken Neal. Arlee Stroink has also joined the team of realtors. Little Caesars Pizza is celebrating the grand opening of its newest location at 112-2763 Beverly Street. ReMax Duncan/Mill Bay has announced its top performing associates for the month of September. The top three individuals are Cordell Ensign, Clint Steigenberger and Mette Hobden. The top teams are Cal Kaiser’s Team, Kin Johannsen’s Team and Debbie
47
Meiner’s Team. Discovery Honda recognizes Joe Graham and Les Charles for being salesmen of the month.
NANAIMO Concise Strata Management will be taking over Vancouver Island Strata Management effective at the end of November. United Parcel Service is opening an office in Nanaimo at 425 Madsen Road.
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Windward Beer and Wine has plans to open a location next to Country Grocer in early March.
Why leave your Computer Networks this way?
Regional Recycling will be taking over the former Richardson Foods location at 839 Old Victoria Road, with plans to be operational by early December. Sofa Source has moved to #3-5140 Metral Drive. Traore Building Maintenance has opened at 396 Wakesiah Avenue. LaStella Trattoria will be opening for business at 31 Wesley Street under the ownership of Ryan Zuvich.
With a combined 50 years experience, Managing Partners Dave Zambonelli and Bob Janes have been providing practical, cost effective solutions on Vancouver Island for over 30 years.
Manvirro’s Indian Grill will be opening at 1045B Terminal Avenue. Chartwell Retirement Residences has proposed a new seniors housing complex for 100-12th Street in Chase River. May’s Cleaning Service has opened for business at 1766 Harvest Place.
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Buddies Natural Pet Food Store, located on Departure Bay, will be closing its doors at the end of December. Ross Barnard has taken over from Rob Barrie as Sales Manager at Laird Wheaton GM.
104-3375 Whittier Ave. Victoria,BC V8Z 3R1 TEL: 250-384-7148 www.islandoffice.ca
Jacobsen Physical Therapist Corp. is opening at 201-1621 Dufferin Crescent.
SEE MOVERS AND SHAKERS | PAGE 48
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Charlie’s Closet has moved to a new location at A427 Fitzwilliam Street.
The Communities for Kids Festival of Trees will be happening at Nanaimo North Town Centre, and is looking for tree sponsors. The festival will run from Nov. 22 to the beginning of January. There will be breakfast with Santa Nov. 23 and other activities throughout the duration of the festival. Contact through email at: cfknanaimo@gmail.com
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48
MOVERS AND SHAKERS
MOVERS AND SHAKERS
Calais Spas and Billiards is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, located at 4000 Corunna Avenue.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 47
International Steel Detailing located on Barons Road has merged with Victoria’s Exact Detailing. Jim Gardiner will be acting as Vice President for the new operation.
The new Nanaimo Learning Centre celebrated its grand opening, being Nanaimo’s first urban Aboriginal public school. The Centre is run by the Vancouver Island West School District out of the Boys and Girls Club on Fifth Street.
Modern Windows has closed its Duncan location as of October 31. Dr. Arun Natarajan will be joining Dr. Anthony Booth at 14-1599 Dufferin Crescent. Dr. Paul Geneau of Nanaimo Eye Care will be moving to a new space at 6330 Dover Bay Road. Alberni Outpost will be relocating to the former Swiss Chalet location outside of Country Club Centre. Johnston Johnston & Associates on Wellington Road is expanding its office, taking over the adjacent space next to Geselbracht Brown Lawyers. Renovations are currently underway, with expected completion before summer. Hudson’s Bay located in Woodgrove Centre has welcomed Ingeborg Reive to its Elizabeth Arden team of professionals. The Downtown Nanaimo Business Improvement Association has announced its Board of Directors for the 2014/2015 term. Directors include: John Cooper, Jerry Hong, Louise Kellow, Blake McGuffie, Eric McLean, Shawna McPhillips, Nadine Shemilt, Judy Stephan, Leslie Sutton, Greg Badger. John Shepherd, formerly with VICC, is now at the Coast Bastion Hotel. He has taken over from CY Wong who is retiring after 25 years.
NOVEMBER 2014
Aboriginal rights lawyer Louise Mandell has been appointed VIU chancellor. She replaces Shawn Atleo who has been named Speaker for Indigenous Dialogue. Brad Taylor, Wes Harrison and Mitch Zylak have opened the Sound & Cinema electronics store in Nored Plaza. Vancouver Island Symphony Director Margot Holmes has been selected by Business for the Arts to receive the Cultural Champion Award at the Canadian Arts and Business Awards, recognizing her leadership in the field of arts. Lakeside Dental Clinic has welcomed Dr. Aleem Kara to the practice, located at 7-4800 Island Highway N. Nanaimo Honda has welcomed Tim Dakin to the dealership, located at 2535 Bowen Road. The Black Bear Pub celebrated its 25th anniversary Oct. 25. Nominations for the Third Annual Top 20 Under 40 are being sought until January 15, See 2015. www.20under40.ca Evelyn Hare, owner of Redhare Photography has been selected to become a Google Trusted
Photographer. Google Business Photos has recently been launched. Frontrunners has opened for business in its new location at 1825 Bowen Road. Tip Top Tailors has moved to a new location in Woodgrove Centre. Diamond Eyes celebrated its grand opening in Nanaimo, located at 6581 Aulds Road.
Johnston Franklin Lawyers has announced that Marsha Bishop has been named a partner of the firm. The firm will now be called Johnston Franklin Bishop Lawyers. Helijet is laying the groundwork to launch flights between Nanaimo and downtown Vancouver out of the cruise ship terminal. Nanaimo’s Coast Realty Group has announced the promotion of Kathy White to Manager, Coast Realty Group Rental Management Department, and Dave Curry to Managing Broker, Coast Realty Group Nanaimo Region.
Dodd’s Furniture & Mattress is celebrating its 37th anniversary in Nanaimo this year. Nanaimo’s first Bitcoin ATM has been installed in downtown Nanaimo’s Thirsty Camel. WestJet Encore has added a second daily flight between Calgary and Nanaimo. Leon Drzewiecki of NYLA Fresh Thread Inc. has launched a new line of heritage Nanaimo T-shirts that come out each month. UPS Canada opened its Nanaimo location at 425 Madsen Road. Cheryl Dill is the new executive director of the Central Vancouver Island Job Opportunities Building Society. Nanaimo council has approved Hilton Hotel The City of Nanaimo has selected Levelton Consultants Ltd. to conduct detailed annual inspections of all nine of the city’s dams. The $51,600 will stand for two-years. Nanaimo’s General George R. Pearkes housing complex, located at 10 Buttertubs Drive, is preparing to hand over its assets to Nanaimo Affordable Housing.
Navjot Parmar of J.A. Smith and Associates JA Smith & Associates has announced that Navjot Parmar has received her Certified General Accountant designation.
Woodgrove Chrysler congratulated Brittany Carey on her 5th anniversary with the dealership.
MNP LLP congratulated Shelley Graham, Louise Kellow, Alana Pearson, Chris Duncan, Traci Pogson and Jenn Schofield on their promotions to the Management and Senior Management teams within the Vancouver Island region.
The No. 1 reservoir on Nanaimo Lakes Road has been recognized with a corporate leadership award from the Community Energy Association to its energy recovery system.
The Artzi Stuff gallery and shop is celebrating its sixth anniversary this year.
The Nanaimo Aquatic Centre has reopened after almost a month of renovations, upgrades and cleaning at its facility. The BC Summer Games, held in Nanaimo this year, generated just under $2 million in direct benefits to Nanaimo and the surrounding region’s economy. Dog N’ Suds Pet Services is now offering a new teeth-cleaning service for dogs. The Uplands Road branch of RBC Dominion Securities has announced the appointment of Saul Hilchey to Vice President. Premiere Verbatim Reporting Ltd. has opened its doors for business at 235 Bastion Street. A new Cash Store will be opening next to Bosley’s in the University Mall Village.
ReMax’s Troy Gibson has been awarded the Circle of Legends. Elle Campbell of Elle Connects has joined the Adam Hawryluk – DLC Canadian Mortgage Experts team. The Vancouver Island Construction Association has announced its Board of Directors for the 2014/2015 term. Directors include: Don Cameron, Angus Macpherson, Alan Fletcher, Anthony Minniti, Katy Fairley, Dave Flint, Tyler Galbraith, Jason Kinch, Doug Savory, Sheldon Saywell, Todd Skelton, Yosef Suna, Eric Ulrich, Gerrit Vink, Roger Yager. Seven Nanaimo certified general accountants received their CPA, CGA designation at a convocation ceremony held Nov. 1. Those recognized are: Galina Anikanova, John Bratkowski, Saron Kim, Lisa McCabe, Christopher Munro, Navinder Sachdev, Nicole Shewaga.
NOVEMBER 2014
MOVERS AND SHAKERS
49
Luxe Aesthetic Medicine is under the new ownership of Candyce Bell BSN RN. Comox First Nation artist Andy Everson has been selected by the Royal Canadian Mint to create a design for a gold coin as a part of its Interconnection series of coins. Tsolum Mobile Veterinary Health Ltd. is celebrating its first anniversary, located at 6635 Island Highway N. Centre in the former location of the Clocktower Gallery. Charlene Patterson celebrated the grand opening of Char’s Landing, located at 4815 Argyle Street.
Please send any business news to Shawn Bishop. shawn@businessvi.ca 250-758-2684 ext. 130
PARKSVILLEQUALICUM Qualicum Beach’s Rotary and Chamber of Commerce is hosting the annual Gala Dinner and Auction on November 22 at the QB Civic Centre. A new ambulance station is being built at the Oceanside Health Centre, and is expected to open by April of 2015. Qualicum Beach Council has approved borrowing up to $6.5 million over 30 years to pay for the new fire hall under construction at Memorial Avenue and Rupert Road. The Amazing Hair Studio is celebrating its 4th anniversary, located at 1025 Lee Road. Mekong River Restaurant has opened a new location in Parksville at 625 Island Highway E.
PORT ALBERNI Ecuador and More is celebrating its 4th anniversary, located at 5417 Argyle Street. ReMax Mid Island Realty has welcomed Carolyn Shearer as its new managing broker. Steelhead LNG, the company behind the liquefied natural gas development southwest of Port Alberni, has named Victor Ojeda as its new President.
North Island College’s Dr. Michael Catchpole, psychology instructor was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to building and improving the field of distance learning.
Crowne Pacfic Development Corp. received approval for the multi-million dollar development of new rental apartments alongside the Courtenay River Estuary. The Comox Business Improvement Area has launched a newly designed, more userfriendly website.
The Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District will upgrade the airport near Sproat Lake to enable passenger service making it competitive with other Island Airports. The upgrade is projects to cost $6.2 million.
Dianne Hawkins is celebrating her 10th anniversary with the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce.
CAMPBELL RIVER
Ducks Unlimited Canada has unveiled its latest project, Beks Farm; an agriculture and wildlife partnership that will protect a plot of 26-acre farmland on Comox Avenue.
Moeller & Company Chartered Accountants has welcomed Charlene Brown to its team, located at 590 Eleventh Avenue. Campbell River Honda has welcomed Michelle Ford to its team, located at 2773 Island Highway N. Bill Howich Chrysler, RV and Marine congratulated Ron May on achieving top sales for the month of September, and James Adshade for tops sales for the month of October. Thong’s Jewellery & Repair is celebrating its 30th anniversary, located at 40-1270 Dogwood Street. ReMax Check Realty has announced the additions of Michael Stricker and Tim Waring to its real estate sales team. Campbell River’s new 133-suite Berwick By the Sea has celebrated its grand opening of 80 of its units. Coastline Mazda has welcomed Devery Thornton to its Parts and Service team. The Chameleon Hair Lounge is celebrating its 10th anniversary, located at 202-2266 S. Island Highway. Island Home Furniture is celebrating its grand opening, located at 1499 Island Highway.
On Top Fashions has been nominated for the People’s Choice Award through the Small Business BC Awards.
COMOX VALLEY
16-year-old Daniel Tsai celebrated the grand opening of Tailor Me at 4969 Argyle Street. Tsai plans to raise funds to attend fashion school in Vancouver.
Sunwest RB Centre has welcomed Eugene Van Anrooy and Bill Slayter to its team of RV Sales Consultants, located at 2800 Cliffe Avenue.
The Best Western Barclay Hotel has undergone more renovations, which includes all new lobby washrooms, sliding front doors and an outdoor awning.
Brian McLean GMC congratulated Graham Paul on achieving top sales for the month of September.
A pitch has been made by West Coast Aquatic to set up a Fisheries Stewardship
Finneron Hyundai congratulated Jan Vandenbiggelaar on being named Salesperson of the Month for September.
McKays Electronic Experts celebrated its grand opening, located at 250 Dogwood Street.
The Town of Comox has welcomed Edwin Hagmeier as its new Manager of Recreation, taking over from Mandy Johns, who is now the town’s Recreation Director. Dr. Phil Nasralla is celebrating the 20th year of his practice in Comox, located at 4-1841 Comox Avenue.
Mount Washington’s terrain park will be transformed into the Rockstar Terrain Park for the upcoming season. Comox City Council has approved in principle the Marina Park Vitalization Plan. Glacier View Lodge is beginning with site preparations for the expansion of the new Adult Day Program Centre this month. Blue Moon Kitchen, which opened its doors five years ago, has expanded to offer a year round Recreational Cooking School designed to inspire the love of cooking.
WEST COAST The BC Salmon Farmers Association will be holding its 31st Annual General Meeting and Salmon Aquaculture Business Summit in October 2015 in Tofino. Wolf in the Fog has been named the best new restaurant in Canada in enRoute’s annual top 10 list. Tofino hosted Canada’s first stand up paddleboard surf contest October 25-26.
OPINION
50
NOVEMBER 2014 A division of Invest Northwest Publishing Ltd. Vancouver Island Office 25 Cavan Street,Nanaimo, BC V9R 2T9 Toll free: 1.866.758.2684 Fax: 1.250.758.2668 Email: info@businessvi.ca Website: www.businessvi.ca
PUBLISHER | Mark A. MacDonald, mark@businessvi.ca EDITOR | Lise MacDonald, lise@businessvi.ca SALES | Shawn Bishop, shawn@businessvi.ca; Josh Higgins josh@businessvi.ca WRITERS | Goody Niosi, Christopher Stephens, Julia MacDonald
CANADA REMAINS AMONG WORLD’S MOST ECONOMICALLY FREE COUNTRIES, OUTRANKS THE UNITED STATES
FRASER INSTITUTE
O
nce again, Canada ranks among the world’s most economically free countries, ranking seventh overa l l a c c ord i n g to t he Fraser Institute’s annual Economic Freedom of the World report, released at a n i nternationa l event in Brussels. The report measures the economic freedom (levels of personal choice, ability to enter markets, security of privately owned property, rule of law, etc.) by analyzing the policies and institutions of 151 countries and Hong Kong. “The link between economic freedom and prosperity is
undeniable. Countries like Canada offer the highest quality of life and personal freedom while the lowest-ranked countries are usually burdened by oppressive regimes that limit the freedom and opportunity of their citizens,” said Fred McMahon, Dr. Michael A. Walker Research Cha i r i n Econom ic Freedom with the Fraser Institute. This year, Canada moved up one spot i n the ra n k i ngs, to seventh from eighth, and improved its score (to 8.0 from 7.9 out of 10). The United States, once considered a bastion of economic freedom, ranks 12th in the world. “The United States has suffered from a weakened rule of law, the ramifications of wars on terrorism and drugs, and a confused regulatory environment. Con sequent ly, it’s d ropp ed from second place in the world rankings in 2000 to 12th place th is yea r, five spots beh i nd Canada,” said Michael Walker, Fraser Institute senior fellow and co-founder of the Economic Freedom of the World project.
According to the report, based on 2012 statistics, the most recent year of available data, the top 10 most economically free jurisdictions are Hong Kong (which continues its streak of number one rankings), Singapore, New Zealand, Switzerland, Mauritius, United Arab Emirates, Canada, Australia, Jordan and (tied for 10th) Chile and Finland. “Hong Kong’s nu mber one rating based on 2012 data and the ongoing protests this year highlight how much Hong Kong stands to lose if the rule of law or fair treatment of all is undermined. This is threatened by encroaching mainland Chinese influence in Hong Kong’s legal system and attempts to impose government control on judges and their decisions—potentially turning the rule of law into a political instrument. This is an attack on Hong Kong’s future prosperity and international standing,” McMahon said. Other notable rankings include Japan (23rd), Germany (28t h), Ru ssi a (98t h), I nd i a
(110th) and China (115th). The 10 lowest-ranked countries are Myanmar, Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, Chad, Ira n, A lgeria, A rgentina, Zimbabwe, Republic of Congo and Venezuela, which retains the title of the world’s least economically free country. Some despotic countries such as North Korea and Cuba could not be ranked due to lack of data. According to fact-based research in top peer-rev iewed journals, people living in countries with high levels of economic freedom enjoy greater prosperity, more political and civil liberties, and longer life spans. For example, countries in the top quartile of economic freedom had an average per capita GDP of US$39,899 in 2012, compared to US$6,253 for bottom quartile nations. Moreover, t he average i ncome of the poorest 10 per cent in the most economically free countries in 2012, US$11,610, was almost double the overall average income in the least free
countries. And life expectancy is 79.9 years in the top quartile compared to 63.2 years in the bottom quartile. The Fraser Institute produces the annual Economic Freedom of t he World rep or t i n cooperation with the Economic Freedom Network, a group of independent research and educational institutes in nearly 90 nations and territories. It’s the world’s premier measurement of economic freedom, using 42 distinct variables to create an index, ranking countries based on economic freedom, which is measured in five areas: size of government, legal structure and security of property rights, access to sound money, freedom to trade internationally, and regulation of credit, labour and business. The 2014 report was prepared by James Gwartney, F lorid a State University, Robert A. Lawson, Southern Methodist University and Joshua Hall, West Virginia University. The full report is available at www.freetheworld.com.
BLUE IS BEAUTIFUL, AND THE BEST WAY TO MAKE GREEN
MARK MACDONALD
S
omehow, we need to trade our presentation of “the trades”. “T he trades”, i.e. welders, electricians, plumbers, carp enters, pip ef it ters, etc. – you know, the ones who build t h i n g s , m a n y o f w h o m a re working in the oil and gas industry, particularly in northern BC and Alberta. This is a very real “land of possibility” for young people wanting to find meaningful employment that pays handsomely well. If parents and educators still don’t give “the trades” the respect they deserve, and present them as significant, important
and fulfilling vocations, then we a l l lose, rea l ly. You nger students, who are easily inf luenced, could benefit from having these jobs presented as a gold standard for occupation. T he lon g-pre d ic te d s k i l l s shortage has arrived, and Canada’s lack of tradespeople is being magnified, largley, because we aren’t encouraging enough young people in the trades. Last year, the B.C. Construction Association went to Ireland to try and find 600 Irish trades people to fill positions. Two years ago, studies ind icated that 30,500 trades jobs would go unfilled in B.C. What would that figure be now? And as the northern Alberta oil fields continue to expand, so will the demand for skilled workers, and we’re si mply not produci ng enough. It’s as if our academics heard the skill shortage warnings and set about to encourage and turn out more “skills”, but those of the white collar variety. As the jobs multiply and baby boomers begin their withdrawal from the workforce, Canada now has to
open up its immigration gates to bri ng i n the workers that major industry needs, namely trades people. One can’t blame a lot of teache r s fo r p u s h i n g a c a d e m i a . T h at’s how t h e s y s tem h a s been set up. But people aren’t “one size fits all”, and there are undoubtedly students who are bored with sitting at a desk in a warm classroom that would be magnificent trades people. It’s a shame that something hasn’t been done earlier yet to identify these strengths. Germany, for example, identifies potential tradespeople much earlier in the educational cycle. As a result, the average age of a graduating tradesman is 19. In Canada, it’s 28. There is much room for improvement. I t ’s s a d t o s e e t e e n a g e r s g radu ate f rom h ig h school, scratching their heads, with absolutely no idea of what they want to do employment-wise, taking almost a decade longer to discover the promise a trades job holds for their futures. H ats of f to t he prov i nci a l government for stepping in to
push the education system to identi f y a nd tra i n potentia l tradespeople earlier, and provide training to get them on their way to a successful vocation earlier. There are simply too many stories of graduates, awash i n student loa ns, entering a workforce with bleak prospects for employment, and facing pay cheques wages as they try to not only pay back t h e i r l o a n s , b u t ge t a h e a d financially. For generations now, there is a sense of prestige bestowed upon young people who pursue white collar occupations. Parents are proud to note that their sons and daughters are doctors, lawyers, accountants. . . These are all admirable professions, without a doubt. But they a lso cou ld be l i m iti ng, especially in terms of making enough money to pay for student loans required to obtain degrees in these, and other office-based occupations. I h ad d i n ner w it h a you ng law yer f rom I rela nd, who moved to B.C. i n sea rch o f w o rk , a s t h a t c o u n t r y ’s
economy difficulties following a post-technology boom. He said he – and many other young white collar workers – are struggling to find enough work i n what is a very competitive industry. When they do find a paycheque, the pickings can be fairly scant. What Canada had a generation ago was a burgeoning middle class, filled with trades and industry-based workers who were paid handsomely for extracting resources in the fishing/ logging/mining industries and bringing products to market. That is back now, with the oil and gas industry driving the middle class back to prosperity. The average wage in the Fort McMurray is $189,000 a year. T here are many white collar workers who make a quarter of that sum. Money isn’t everything, without a doubt. But if we really want to give our young people the same opportunities we have had, we need to reinforce and glorify the value of blue collar jobs for those entering the workforce.
SUBCRIPTIONS | $45 PER YEAR (12 ISSUES), $80 FOR 2 YEARS (24 ISSUES), SUBSCRIBE ONLINE: WWW.BUSINESSVI.CA. DISTRIBUTION: SECOND WEEK OF EACH MONTH VIA CANADA POST AD MAIL. The publisher accepts no responsibility for unsolicited submissions. The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. Produced and published in British Columbia. All contents copyright Business Examiner Vancouver Island, 2014. Canadian Publications Mail Acct.: 40069240
LAW
NOVEMBER 2014
51
A NEW PERSPECTIVE ON CRAFT SALES LAW
Products can become lost on the internet
L
arge chain stores generally do not want to create a listing for a single product. That means that an inventor seeking to sell a product th roug h the cha i n store m u s t d o s o t h ro u g h a d i st r ibutor who a l ready is doing business with the chain. In exchange, the distributor charges 30%. The chain store will have a standard mark up, typically 50%. The chain store has high fi xed expenses and need a consta nt tu rnover of i nventor y i n ord er to m a ke money. If inventory of a particular product does not turn over within a reasonable time per iod, t he cha i n store w i l l cease carrying the product. In order to ensure turnover, pro ducts mu st b e pr iced to sell. This results in the chain store d ictat i ng to suppl iers what the retail price must be. For example, if the chain store determines the retail price is to be $10.00, the wholesale price must be $5.00 in order to do
In order to survive in the early stages, the inventor must look for ways to test the market for the new product that will see the inventor receiving a higher return which will offset the higher cost of producing products in small runs.
business with the chain store. Once the distributor’s 30% is deducted from the $5.00, this leaves the inventor with $3.50. Out of the $3.50, the inventor
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mu st pay for m ater i a l s a nd labour; the remainder (if any) the inventor retains as profit. When products are mass produced, there are “economies of sca le� that resu lts i n the per unit price being reduced. However, in the early stages of a product’s development, the product runs are typically small. There are a number of reasons for this. T he first reason is that the product is still in development and changes are being made. T he second reason is that most inventors have limited
resources; they cannot afford to produce in mass quantities. The third reason is that it has not, as yet, been con f i rmed that there is a market for the product. The inventor does not want to end up with 10 boxes full of products gathering dust in the garage. In order to survive in the early stages, the i nventor must look for ways to test the market for the new product that will see the inventor receiving a higher return which will offset the higher cost of producing products in small runs.
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Selling the product on a website dedicated to the product is the modern answer to that dilemma. However, while the internet allows the inventor to potentially reach a global aud ience, products ca n become lost on the internet. The most effective way to intera c t w it h t h e b uy i n g p u bl ic wh i le reta i n i ng most of t he sales proceeds is still at small venues; what a re com mon ly referred to as farmers markets, flea markets, and craft sales. T he publ ic vote w ith thei r dollars. If they do not have an interest in your product, that will be painfully apparent and you will barely recoup the cost of your market stall. If there is a lot of activity, the public will tell you if the price is too high or it will become apparent by poor sales numbers. I hope that the foregoi ng w i l l g ive you a new perspective. T he X mas craft sales season is upon us. I f you see a new and innovative product as you wander around the craft sales, I hope you will remember this a r ticle a nd treat the vendor with respect. He or she may be a budding entrepreneur who is merely passi ng th roug h a test market stage on the way to greater success.
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Michael Cooper & Douglas B. Thompson We assist your corporate lawyer by protecting your inventions and trademarks 201, 1007 Fort Street, Victoria, BC V8V 3K5
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