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

SEPTEMBER 2016

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DUNCAN Duncan Ramada turns 123 this year

Vancouver Island WWW.BUSINESSEXAMINER.CA PAGE 19

The Nanaimo Foundation Sets a Funding Record

GABRIOLA ISLAND

Group Has Supported the City’s Non-Profit Organizations Since 1982

Architrave Specializes in classic west coast style projects

PAGE 23

There were a lot of smiling faces August 16 when the Nanaimo Foundation presented $70,000 in grants

INDEX News Update Nanaimo Cowichan Valley Comox Valley Port Alberni West Coast Who is Suing Whom Movers and shakers Opinion Law

2 10 18 25 27 27 29 31 34 25

OUR 10TH YEAR

BY DAVID HOLMES

ANAIMO – Created with the goal of making the community a better place, the Nanaimo Foundation (NF) has been helping the region’s community groups and non-profit organizations since 1982. That level of active and generous support reached an alltime high August 16 when the organization presented $70,000 in grants to

11 different non-profit groups at a special ceremony held at Nanaimo’s Diana Krall Plaza. The exceptional funding support came as the result of a partnership between the Nanaimo Foundation, the Community Fund for Canada’s 150th and Island Savings Credit Union. “It really was an historic moment for the Foundation as it was the largest amount we’ve ever given in grants,” explained Laurie

Bienert, the Development Officer for the Nanaimo Foundation. Originally known as the Nanaimo Community Foundation, the NF was initially established and funded by members of the Associated Canadian Travelers Nanaimo Club (ACT) with the stated mission of aiding local charitable organizations. The Foundation’s motto is: Connecting and Sharing – Making Our Community Better, a mission the group’s current staff

and Board of Directors continue to vigorously support. “There are 191 different Community Foundations across Canada, groups that are increasingly important for the funding of local community organizations,” Bienert said. “The geographic area we serve mirrors that of School District 68, essentially Nanaimo, Lantzville, SEE NANAIMO FOUNDATION | PAGE 5

Centre Upgrading To Better Showcase Forest Industry History BC Forest Discovery Centre: A Regional Landmark For More Than 50 Years

Canadian Publications Mail Acct.: 40069240

UNCAN – They like making forest puns at the BC Forest Discovery Centre (BCFDC), that’s why Manager Chris Gale says, with a chuckle, t h at its on goi n g upg rad i n g program is all part of a plan to ‘spruce-up’ the facility. Continuing with the theme, a mighty oak has certainly grown from the tiny acorn planted at the site more than

50 years ago. “The origin of the Centre, which was created to celebrate and preserve the history of BC’s forest industries, goes back to the early 1960’s and the donation of more than 5,000 artifacts from the collection of founder Gerry Wellburn and his family,” Gale said. Originally called the Forest Museum, this tangible salute to

regional industries and eco systems was initially built around the Wellburn collection, an expansive assortment of forestry equipment ranging from steam locomotives to other rare and often large pieces of vintage logging equipment. A first Board of Directors for the fledging non-profit organization was founded in 1964, with the museum opening its doors to the

public in 1966. From its original 15 acre site the museum has grown over the years and now encompasses more than 100 acres. The Centre features a collection of old forestry buildings including a blacksmiths shop, a ranger’s lookout tower and a logging camp. “Of course the highlight of any SEE BC FOREST DISCOVERY CENTRE | PAGE 26

2 BC ICBC proposes referral system T he Insurance Corporation of BC is considering the idea of working with vehicle retailers who would pay ICBC a referral fee for customers. It would be aimed at ICBC customers who are searching for a replacement vehicle after their own is written off. Customers would receive a referral to a seller or sellers from ICBC when receiving money from the corp. ICBC issued a request for information to find out if retailers are interested in participating in the program. Customers would not be required to purchase a vehicle from a referred company. They would continue to have a choice on whether to replace a written-off vehicle and where they want to buy from. The proposed regime would not involve ICBC in any of the sales process. Last year, 48,000 ICBC customers had their vehicles written off, with a total loss in payments surpassing $500-million. Around 900,000 claims are handled each year. The program would bring in revenue for ICBC at a time when the corporation’s insurance rates have been steadily increasing

NEWS UPDATE along with the number of claims and related costs. The fee paid to ICBC by sellers has not been set, so there are no revenue projections as of yet.

PORT ALBERNI Upgrades coming to Port Alberni Airport The Port Alberni Valley Regional Airport will be receiving a grant of $729,215 to fund upgrades under the B.C. Air Access program, which was announced by Parksville-Qualicum MLA Michelle Stilwell. The funding provided by the Government of British Columbia will upgrade the existing runway lighting system at the airport to enable better access in lower visibility conditions. “Upgrading the infrastructure of this regional airport is an important investment in our com mu n it y a nd for ou r local economy,” said Stilwell. “Residents will benefit from increased and safer access, as will visitors when they come to explore all our region has to offer.” Through the B.C. Air Access Program, the government cost shares with public airports on development projects. These types of projects will allow airports to improve safety, accommodate larger aircraft and more frequent f lights, and further

support the continuing growth of local and provincial economies. The government is investing $24 million over three years for the B.C. Air Access Program. The program also encourages funding partnerships with the federal government, local and regional governments and agencies, and the private sector.

BC BC Ferries first quarter shows promise BC Ferries released its first qu a r ter resu lts i n l ate-August. Net earnings for the three months ended June 30, 2016 (the first quarter of fiscal 2017) were $27-million, compared to net earnings of $18.8-million in the first quarter of the previous year. T hese ea rn i ngs ref lect the effects of higher traffic levels, higher ferry transportation fees, higher retail sales and lower costs, partially offset by lower social program fees and higher operating costs. In the first fiscal quarter of 2017, revenues increased by 4.9 per cent to $219.2-million, while operating expenses increased by 1.5 per cent to $178.6 million, compared with the first quarter of 2016. Along with releasing BC Ferries’ first quarter results, Corrigan announced there would be

SEPTEMBER 2016

upcoming pricing promotions in the fall of 2016 and the spring of 2017. Details of the promotions are to be announced in the coming months. Passenger traffic increased by 2.5 per cent and vehicle traffic rose by 5.1 per cent, compared with the first quarter of 2016. During the three months ended June 30, 2016, BC Ferries provided over 42,000 sailings, carrying over 5.3-million passengers and over 2.1 million vehicles.

NORTH ISLAND Provincial Fund supports local projects A nu mber of Nor t h I sl a nd projects are benefiting from BC Rural Dividend Fund grants. The BC government is distributing over $464,000 in new funding to assist small communities in developing projects to strengthen and diversify their economies. Within the first year of the three year, $75-million program, $464,294 will be awarded to 30 local governments, 15 First Nations and two non-profit organizations from around the province. Locally, the Quatsino First Nations received $8,860 to explore the feasibility of using the Land Use Plan to identify economic opportunities; the ‘Namgis

First Nation received $10,000 for architecture to complete redevelopment plans for a historic building; and the Village of Sayward received $10,000 to develop a business plan for an experimental tourism project at the waterfront. Final decisions on project applications for single applications (up to $100,000) and partnerships (up to $500,000) are set to be announced this month.

BC Visitors to BC on the rise The number of overnight international visitors to British Columbia surpassed the two-million mark for the first six months of 2016. According to Statistics Canada, 2,307,624 visitors came to BC from January to June, a 12.4 per cent increase (254,935 additional visitors) over the same period last year. During the same time frame, other highlights include visits from the US which rose 12.4 per cent, visits from Mexico rose 38.6 per cent and visits from China rose 22 per cent. In addition, 656,676 international visitors came to BC in June alone an 8.6 per cent increase compared to June 2015. A number of factors are contributing to the growth in visitor numbers, including increased

NEWS UPDATE

SEPTEMBER 2016

air access and capacity to Vancouver, a low Canadian dollar and Destination BC’s new international market strategy. The Canadian Transportation Agency just announced a sixth mainland China based air carrier, Capital Airlines, will start ser v ici n g Va ncouver International Airport in December. The new flights are in part a result of the government’s elimination of a 2012 international jet-fuel tax to reduce costs for airlines and give travellers more choices.

TOFINOUCLUELET

new four-year research project to determine how to improve the quality of life for people in longterm care facilities. The $2-million project called Seniors Adding Life to Years (SALTY) is being overseen by Dr. Leah MacDonald of Island Health, partners from the University of Victoria and researchers from Alberta, Ontario and Nova Scotia. The study will focus on determining best practices being used across the country in long-term care homes. SALTY is funded by the Canadian Institutes for Health Research, the Nova Scotia Health Research Foundation, the Michael Sm ith Fou ndation for Health Research and the Alzheimer Society of Canada.

Ahousaht hydro project The Ahousaht Nation is looking at diversifying their economy with a hydroelectric project that could produce enough energy to power both Tofino and Ucluelet. The Ahousaht Nation, located near Tofino, is in the process of negotiating with Vancouver-based Elemental Energy to construct and operate a runof-the-river project on Bulson Creek. The project would employ between 30 and 40 workers from Ahousaht during construction with an additional four to six employed once the project is complete, according to Trevor Jones, CEO of the Ahous Business Corp. Run-of-the-river hydro projects produce electricity by using part of natural river flows and elevation difference. A portion of a stream is channelled downstream into one or more turbines, causing the turbines to spin, generating electricity. Once the process is completed, water is released back into the stream. In this case, water intake would occur at a 260-metre elevation, then move 160 metres to the generation site. Unlike hydro dams, this process only affects a portion of the stream flow. The project’s capacity is estimated to provide around 50 gigawatt hours annually, the equivalent of powering 4,545 homes a year according to BC Hydro. The electricity would be sold to BC Hydro. Early estimates put the project cost at $60-million. If the Ahousaht maintain majority ownership, it would generate between $5-million and $7-million annually, after 20 years of debt-servicing payments are complete.

CAMPBELL RIVER Island Health launches senior care research project Island Health has announced a

VANCOUVER ISLAND Coastal regions see marine marketing boost Small and remote coastal regions can prepare for a boost in tourism with the development of a collaborative marine tourism marketing and product venture. With funding from the Island Coastal Economic Trust, the BC Ocean Boating Tourism Association (BCOBTA) is entering into the third phase of its multi-year marketing program. The AhoyBC.com website is a central component of this program. T he site is a complete resource for marine tourists, offering everything from selfdirected circle tour options to information on charters, west coast Aboriginal culture, marine parks, and more. The next phase of the BCOBTA’s work will enhance market i ng for t he Broug hton Archipelago, Discovery Islands, and Vancouver Island West. These remote sub-regions are less-frequented by marine tourists and boaters, yet account for one-third of all BC ocean boating tourism revenue. Marketing efforts will include more detailed content for trip planning, attendance at boating shows and sending a video crew and travel writer to the Discovery Island region. The Island Coast Economic Trust is contributing $14,400 to the jointly-funded $37,600 project to focus marketing efforts specifically on those remote regions. Enhanced community profiles, regional showcases and a presence at consumer shows are just some of the elements of the overall marketing effort. The Enhanced Marketing Project is expected to be complete by spring 2017. The Island Coastal Economic Trust is a $50 million fund established in 2006 by the Government of British Columbia to help diversify the economies of central and northern Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast.

April 16, 2016

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

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

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Hospital Foundation Names New Ceo A Solid Legacy Continues To Push Excellence In Healthcare Focusing On Getting The Right Equipment For When Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Needed BETH HENDRY-YIM

ANAIMO â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation (NDHF) na mes a new CEO who promises to bring a healthy dose of energy and focus. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Nanaimo General Hospital is entering a very exciting time with new challenges to face,â&#x20AC;? said Janice Perrino, incoming CEO, adding that her goal is to continue moving forward, building relationships and making sure the hospital gets the best equipment it needs to do its job. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The stark truth is that our government gives us what it can, we have to come up with the rest,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And we will, because when our community needs the hospital equipment, it wants it to be there.â&#x20AC;? Coming from the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation, where over the past twenty years she was instrumental in raising more than $45 million, Perrino said that the secret to her success is by putting the needs out there to the public

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and making it clear as to what is needed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never had the public let me down, they always come forward, because people take care of their own.â&#x20AC;? Perrino brings an impressive background of experience including two terms as city Councillor and Mayor of Summerland, Chair of the Regional Hospital District for the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen, board director of Okanagan College and work with the BC Cancer Foundation in Kelowna. Over those years sheâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s found that it has been individuals who give the most because as she said, they have a vested interest in medical professionals having the right tools on hand for when they are needed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;At the end of the day itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about buying equipment for the hospital, and supporting healthcare facilities throughout the Central Island,â&#x20AC;? she said adding that Maeve Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Byrne, outgoing president with twenty-five years of leadership involvement at the Foundation, is leaving a solid legacy,

Incoming Nanaimo Hospital & District foundation CEO, Janice Perrino, brings an impressive background of experience to her new position. CREDIT:FERON ANNE WALKER

one that Perrino hopes to continue. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our next event will be raising between $150,000 to $200,000 by Christmas for purchasing several pieces of equipment. We will reach that goal because the Central Island has a history of pushing healthcare excellence.â&#x20AC;? Nanaimo Hospital & District Foundation is at 1801 Bowen Road in Nanaimo www.nanaimohospitalfoundation.com

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OFF THE COVER

SEPTEMBER 2016

Merger Of Co-ops Benefiting All BY DAVID HOLMES

ICTORIA – The success of Pen i nsu la Co-op, a nd t he ent i re Co-op movement for t h at m at ter, rests with the people who own it – the organization’s membership. For Peninsula Co-op, which is the largest organization of its type on Vancouver Island, the future looks very bright. In April Peninsula Coop g rew even la rger when it merged with the 6,000 member strong Comox Co-op. “We merged with the Comox and District Consumers Co-op in April. T he move included two locations, one a gas station and store in Comox as well as the original location, a cardlock outlet on Highway 19A,” explained Dave Hoy, Peninsula Co-op’s General Manager and Chief Executive Officer. Peninsula Co-op (which first opened for business in 1977) now has more than 85,000 active members a nd cu rrently operates 16 gas centres (plus one fo o d store i n Sa a n ich), from Duncan through to Victoria, plus the two outlets it now owns in the Comox Valley. Overa l l the cor poration has about 320 employees. Memb er-ow ned l i ke a l l Co-ops, the corporation issued about

Dave Hoy is the General Manager and Chief Executive Officer of Peninsula Co-op $5.5 million in rebate cheques to its membership in 2015, in addition to donating more than $370,000 to suppor t a w ide range of community-focused events and organizations. “T he way the Co-op works always starts with a group of people coming together with the desire to provide services that are needed in their communities, and in building local economies and jobs. They then elect a board of directors who in turn hire the staff to help look after the membership. Each individual Co-op is

NANAIMO FOUNDATION CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

autonomous,” Hoy explained. No s t ra n ge r to t h e C o-o p m o v e m e n t , H o y h a s n e a rly 40 yea rs ex perience w ith Co-op, including his moving to Vancouver Island in 2000 to become the General Manager of the Mid Island Co-op, a position he held u nti l ea rly 2013 when he assumed the same role at Peninsula Co-op. “Our Co-op is part of a retail orga n i zation wh ich is made up of about 200 Co-ops located all across Western Canada right up to the Manitoba / Ontario border.” The merger of the two geographically separated entities did not happen by chance, or qu ickly, but was the end resu lt of a process that bega n more t h a n t h re e ye a rs a go. O r i g i n a l ly t he sm a l ler Comox Co-op contracted some of its business and administrative f u nctions to the la rger orga n i zat ion wh ich h ad more resou rces to ca rry out those duties. In time it began to make more corporate sense to merge the two compatible orga n i zations, a pact that was finalized April 1. T he c o op e rat ive a m a l g a m at ion may not be the last Peninsula becomes involved with. To lea r n more plea se v i sit the Co-op’s website at: www. peninsulaco-op.com

Gabr iol a Isl a nd, Ced a r a nd Ladysmith. Earlier this year we established separate dedicated funds for Gabriola and Ladysmith, where we would look after the administration and the local organizers handle the distribution of funds to their local groups. It made sense for local people to identify and support the groups in their areas.” The key to the Nanaimo Foundation’s success is its volunteer Board of Directors, under the Chairmanship of Ted Carson and Vice Chair George Hanson. A veritable who’s who of local business and community leaders, the Board is rounded out by Tom Harris, Joyce A. Smith, Daniel Martinez, Jocelyn Matwe, Tim Mawdsley and Michael Wassermann. Collectively the Board and its tiny staff assess grant requests, coordinate with companion groups and distribute funding to the end users. “As a third generation Nanaimoite, I feel it is important to give back to the community that has given me so much. It is an exciting time to be a supporter of the Nanaimo Foundation and a part of the difference being made in our community,” Harris explained when describing his motivation for being part of the Foundation. “As a community foundation we support the health, vibrancy and vitality of our community.

5 We provide grants to non-profit organizations to help make our community stronger, helping to make it a better place to live,” Bienert said. “We support all corners of our community, everything from social services and health to environment and animal welfare. We support sports, arts and culture, children and youth. The list could go on.” The Nanaimo Foundation receives no government funding and but is wholly supported by private donations from the local business community and from citizens at large. In times of shrinking government support for community groups the assistance provided by the Foundation is increasingly significant and vital for the wellness of the community. The next big step for the group will be the creation of a new Community Engagement Committee which will focus on the task of raising the Foundation’s community profile. “They will help identify new opportunities for the Foundation to assist the community and to garner fresh support from the community,” Bienert said. “ T he si z e of t he c om m ittee which will be established in September has yet to be decided, but we’re very excited about extending the reach of the Foundation.” To learn more please visit the organization’s website at: www. nanaimofoundation.com

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SHRINKING WORKFORCE LEAVES MANY EMPLOYERS SEEKING NEW WAYS TO FIND TALENT

Millennial

Angelique Bulosan and Linda Beaudry from the Executive Search & Professional Recruitment team at MNP

The baby boomer work force is being replaced by millennials. Baby Boomers (1946-1965) Ages 50-69 Generation X (1966- 1980) Ages 30-50. Millennial or Generation Y (1981-1990) Ages 15-30 % of Canadian workforce Millennials Gen X Boomers

2014 36.8% 33.9% 31.1%

2010 27.4% 35.8% 36.8%

y Boomer Bab

ith the baby boomers rapidly moving out of the workforce, many small- and medium-sized organizations are finding themselves in a dilemma—the need to replace senior level leaders with years of experience and knowledge. But competition for talent is fiercer than ever and accessing the people who can move your organization forward is extremely difficult with traditional recruiting methods. Finding the right star can be done, but it requires the ability to dive deep into the leadership pool. Linda Beaudry, CHRP, leader of MNP’s Executive Search and Professional Recruitment team for BC, explains that the problem is two-fold. “First, it’s generational. Millennials are too young so everyone wants Generation X, but that’s a really small pool. Secondly, employers know how competitive the market is and understand the importance of employee engagement strategies to keep their top people.” As a result, there aren’t as many highly qualified people actively seeking new opportunities. The result is that employers that advertise open positions in the paper are often forced to choose the best from the worst. The good news is that many organizations today are quite flat; employees don’t have the chance to move up the ladder and achieve higher levels of success. So while they may be happy where they are, they might be motivated to move. The catch is that the opportunity has to come to them. “That means looking for passive candidates—people who are already excellent in that role who might move if the opportunity is right,” says Beaudry. “Once we understand what the organization is looking for, we can be very specific in our search, seeking out candidates either in the same industry or parallel to the industry, who have the skills and passion our clients want.” Beaudry, who has 30 years of experience in recruiting, typically works with enterprises that have 20 to 75 employees, limited HR capacity and no time to do a proper search when they need to fill a key position, such as a CEO, a Director of Finance, or a General Manager. Some come to her because they haven’t been able to find a good candidate while others need to fill a role so critical to their business

(Source: StatsCanada)

that they can’t risk not finding the best of the best.

Understanding what attracts individuals to organizations, Beaudry works

MNP’s Executive Search Services: Better Fit. Better Results. “Linda was fabulous. Very easy to work with and really got to know our company and our requirements down to a personal level.” - Judith Fleming, Controller, CD Nova Matching the right business with the right talent is MNP’s Executive Search teams’ specialty. We take the time to learn about your organization, corporate culture and role to find the ideal fit. The end result is shorter searches, smooth integration and a stronger team. For a better fit and better results, contact Linda Beaudry, CHRP, B.C. Leader of Executive Search and Professional Recruitment Services at 778.432.3056 or linda.beaudry@mnp.ca

closely with clients to help them identify and share the benefits of joining their company. “You need to be able to share with potential candidates a compelling story; one that gets them to want to risk changing roles,” she says. “That might be the opportunity to share in the rewards, work with an employer of choice, take a business to the next level or be part of a company that strongly believes in growing its people. We educate our clients on the market and what is required to attract quality candidates.” If you’re thinking of using an executive search firm to fill an important role, look for one that has a proven process and measurable results. For example, MNP collects ongoing feedback to measure the satisfaction of both the employer and the selected candidate. Beaudry’s team also follows up with the employer and candidate at 30, 60 and 90 days to ensure all is going well and offers a three-to-six month replacement guarantee that they’ll recruit a new candidate at no extra charge if the first one isn’t the right fit. Beaudry’s passion for connecting employers with the right leadership can be seen in her conversation and the results she achieves, which includes a 100 per cent success rate in placing candidates, a 98 per cent retention rate over two years and many repeat clients. So what drives her to put in so much effort to ensure a perfect fit? “I develop long-term relationships with my clients. It’s almost like I’m working in their organization and need to find the right person to ensure the organization’s continued success as well as the future success of the candidate,” she explains. “But I don’t do it alone. To do this properly, the client needs to go through our five-step process with me so I can find the people who not only have the technical skills required but, more importantly, the ability to motivate, inspire and lead.” Beaudry advises employers who have the time to go ahead and try to conduct their own search first. If they can’t find what they’re looking for, a professional will be able to locate someone who will not just fill the role but is effectively vetted and chosen on proven methods that ensure they are truly the right fit for the organization.

REAL ESTATE

SEPTEMBER 2016

New Provincial Tax to Impact Island Real Estate Sales Foreign Buyer Tax Was introduced By The Government August 3

ANAIMO â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The new Foreign Buyer Tax was introduced by the provincial government on August 3rd, but the question that has to be asked for those wanting to buy or sell property locally has to be: is this new law good or bad for Vancouver Island? The controversial new regulation slaps a 15 per cent property transfer tax on all residential real estate purchases made in Metro Vancouver and the Greater Vancouver Regional District by foreign nationals, foreign controlled corporations or trusts. The tax was introduced by the Province with the stated intent of addressing the issue of housing affordability for residents in the Lower Mainland. Since the tax was introduced concerns have been raised about its effects on housing markets beyond the Greater Vancouver area such as on Vancouver Island. What will the ramifications be if foreign investors simply change their focus market elsewhere? This change in focus is already being identified in Victoria with a dramatic increase in foreign purchasing. In the short term I think you will see the increase in foreign purchasing on Vancouver Island, mostly concentrated in Victoria and North Nanaimo. The bigger market impact has been from Canadians selling to foreign buyers and leaving the Lower Mainland and Victoria to head to the much more affordable Central Vancouver Island markets. Western Canadians have begun to realize that Central

â&#x20AC;&#x153;In the short term I think you will see the increase in foreign purchasing on Vancouver Island.â&#x20AC;? JOHN COOPER PARTNER, COOPER | MCLINTOCK & ASSOCIATES

Vancouver Island not only has the most affordable warm climate in Canada, but also enjoys access to Vancouver that is substantially more convenient than commuting from Victoria or the Okanagan. This trend is expected to continue as long as the price differential is maintained between the two markets. Provincial Finance Minister Mike De Jong acknowledges the tax will have an impact but at the moment no one knows how dramatic that impact will eventually be. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still too soon after the introduction to know for certain, but rest assured weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be keeping an eye on this volatile situation and its influence and will do our best to keep you informed. For more information, John Cooper can be reached at 250-751-1223 or by e-mail at john@coopermclintock.com.

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SEPTEMBER 2016

DEBT PROBLEMS - WHO CAN YOU TURN TO?

hen an individual is faced with debt problems, it is usually very stressful and confusing for them to find unbiased professional advice. In todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s digital age, most people turn to the internet to find answers. A Google search of various debt-related terms reveals hundreds of debt-relief websites that claim to have the ability to settle your debt for pennies on the dollar. You may be asked to make a series of payments hoping that they can actually deliver on this promise; beware, and do your research before parting with your

hard-earned money. Many of these organizations are not even located in Canada and most operate in an unregulated environment. Should they not deliver on their promises, you will have little recourse to recover the fees paid and you will still have not dealt with your debt problems. M a ny of t hese u n l icen sed organizations act as a â&#x20AC;&#x153;middle manâ&#x20AC;?; taking your money, leading you to believe they have the ability to protect you from your creditors, and then later will refer you to a Licensed Insolvency Trustee, adding unnecessary costs to the process. A Licensed Insolvency Trustee is the only professional who can administer Consumer Proposals and bankruptcies and no referral is required. A Licensed Insolvency Trustee will listen and provide impartial guidance on the best solution for each individual based on their own personal financial circumstances. We provide a free initial consultation designed to explore all options including, but not limited to, legal remedies such as Consumer Proposals, or as a last option, bankruptcy. Consumer Proposals are formal repayment arrangements with creditors, including Canada Revenue Agency. A Consumer Proposal reduces the total debt

Terry Rogers, CPA, CA, Licensed Insolvency Trustee at Smythe LLP

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as well as stops all interest and collection action. Manageable payments are structured over a period of no more than five years. Over the last few years, the popularity of Consumer Proposals has grown significantly, and in 2015, approximately 48 per cent of all individual filings in Canada under the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act were Consumer Proposals.

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Bankruptcy is the last option for debtors that are unable to make any other settlement arrangements with their creditors. Personal bankruptcy will also protect you against lawsuits, seizure of assets and garnishment of earnings. Most assets are exempt from seizure; in British Columbia you can keep up to $32,000 in assets, and in most cases, RRSPs are also protected. Personal bankruptcy provides a fresh financial start, allowing you to become debt free in as little as nine months. The time to contact a Licensed Insolvency Trustee is when the individual is first experiencing debt-related stress and before liquidating their assets. Waiting too long will often leave them with no option other than bankruptcy. Contact our office for a free no-obligation consultation and receive the professional debt relief advice that will help you keep your assets and become debt free. Smythe is a team of Licensed Insolvency Trustees with more than 35 years of experience providing debt counselling, consumer proposals, bankruptcy and other debt solution services to individuals, families and business. They can be reached at (778) 762-0800.

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INCORPORATION CONSIDERATION Try some VIU sturgeon

f you’re like most unincorporated sma l l busi ness ow ners or a professiona l whose regulatory body allows incorporation (known as a Professional Corporation) you’re likely considering whether or not to incorporate and, if so, when is the best time. W h i le it’s tr ue that i ncorporation does deliver terrific tax benefits and some creditor protection from your personal assets, there are pros and cons to i ncorporation that m ight affect your decision. C ons Cash Flow: If you need all of the profits from your business to support your personal cash flow needs, incorporation may not be for you as the cost of setting up and maintaining the corporation cou ld outweigh any tax benefits. On the other ha nd, i f you a re f i na ncia l ly able to retain some profits inside the corporation, you could derive significant tax deferral and potential tax savings. Taxing Questions: If you are just sta rti ng you r busi ness, incorporation should probably wait because losses incurred by an incorporated business can’t f low through to shareholders. In the early stages of you r busi ness, you’re l i kely better of f u si ng losses personally against other income. Once your business begins to

Stephen J. Struthers earn income in excess of your own personal lifestyle needs you may begin to benefit from the abi l ity to defer you r ta x liability to a future period and benefit from potential tax savings (in most provinces). Pros I ncome-spl itti ng: Reduce taxes by making your spouse or adult children shareholders as dividends will benefit from their respective marginal tax rates – or employing them in the business, provided the remuneration is reasonable for their work performed. Deferring certain expenses: You can deduct employee bonuses for tax purposes before year-end but are only required to actually pay out the bonus after year-end (certain restrictions apply). Leaving assets in the

corporation: T hey will continue to grow on a tax-deferred basis until you withdraw them. Creating a registered pension plan and tax-deductible group health and life insurance plan: For you a nd you r employees (wh ich cou ld i nclude fa m i ly members). Choosing a fiscal year spann i n g a ny 1 2-mont h p er io d : Select a fisca l yea r that coincides with business or cash flow peaks or when corporate expenses are higher. Structu ri ng you r corporation: To continue after your deat h for estate pl a n n i ng purposes. T here a re certa i n ly potential benefits to incorporation but incorporating also comes with costs (setup, legal and tax requ i rements, etc). Be su re to talk to your legal, tax and profession a l adv i sor before you do. Stephen J. Struthers, DBA, CFP is a Senior Financial Consultant with Struthers Wealth Management of Investors Group Financial Services Inc This column, written and published by Investors Group Financial Services Inc. and Investors Group Securities Inc. presents general information only and is not a solicitation to buy or sell any investments. Contact your own advisor for specific advice about your circumstances.

arksville Qualicum News Something deliciously f i s h y i s h a p p e n i n g a t Va nc o uve r I sl a n d Un ive r s it y ’s (VIU’s) International Centre for Stu rgeon Stud ies (ICSS) — a nd it’s catch ing on at loca l restau ra nts a nd reta i l outlets. T h e I C S S r e c e n t l y s t a r ted selling cans of smoked stu rgeon a nd fresh fillets to restaurants and retail shops — b ot h a s a revenue generator to help w ith the educat ion a nd resea rch t h at goes o n a t t h e f a c i l i t y, a n d a s a way of b u i ld i n g awa rene s s about what the ICSS does. So fa r th ree restau ra nts — t h e We s t wo o d B i s t r o i n Nanaimo, Pacific Prime Restaurant and Lounge in Parksv i l l e a n d E d i b le Ca n a d a i n Va ncouver — a re serv ing up V IU sturgeon processed and smoked loca l ly at St. Jea n’s Ca n nery a nd Smokehouse. “Our sturgeon are grown in a l a n d-b a s e d , c l o s e d-c o nta i n ment, re-ci rcu lat i ng system wh ich is used for t ra i n i n g o u r f i s h e r i e s a n d aquacu ltu re students, so there’s a local, environmenta l l y f r i e n d l y, e d u c a t i o na l a s p e c t to it,” s a id Jen ny Dawson-Coates, a V I U Fish

He a lt h Biolog i st. “It’s a l so a rea l ly n ice fish for eati ng. In other places in the world, it’s a delicacy.” T he ICSS ra ises thousa nds of white sturgeon to age two, at wh ich ti me fish densities need to be reduced. Because of federa l a nd prov i ncia l laws, releasing the fish into the wild is not an option. S e l l i n g s t u r ge o n p ro d u c t s is a n in novative way for the sel f-f u nded faci l ity to supplement gra nt fu nd ing. I sl a nders who wa nt to t r y s t u r ge o n c a n l o o k fo r V I U smoked ca n ned stu rgeon at severa l lo c a l re t a i l ers. For i nspi rat ion, t hey ca n a lso v i s i t t h e re s t a u ra n t s m e ntioned to see what chefs a re doi ng w it h t he smoked a nd fresh fish. W h ite stu rgeon — the la rgest stu rgeon species i n Nor t h A mer ic a — c a n g row up to six metres long and can live up to 150 years old. Sturge o n h a v e b e e n s w i m m i n g t he waters of t he world for more than 200 million years. Si nc e 198 4, V I U h a s b e en resea rch i ng wh ite stu rgeon a n d te a c h i n g s t u d e nt s a n d the genera l public about the species. For more on the ICSS v isit w w w 2.v iu.ca /stu rgeon /

NANAIMO

SEPTEMBER 2016

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h e Na n a i m o Ch a m b er of Commerce presents the 9th Annual Business E x p o s p o n s o r e d b y C o a s tal Community Credit Union, Thursday, October 20, 10 am – 5 pm at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre. T he trade show is targeted both to the public and for business to business marketing. Business Expo began as a way for Nanaimo businesses to meet each other, and to network in an environment where thei r products a nd ser v ices could be on display. It was like a pop-up shoppi ng m a l l for business. Consumers started to notice it was a great place to make deals and began showing up in increasing numbers.

Now, well over 100 exhibitors will share the experience and meet hundreds of contacts and customers. This year, Business Expo celebrates BC Small Business Month as well as National Manufacturing Month. It’s no secret that small businesses are a mainstay of the Nanaimo economy but it might come as a surprise that manufacturing is growing in the mid-Island. Additionally, exports are becoming a bigger focus of Nanaimo business interests, and not just by manufacturers. Software developers, educators, agri-food producers and processors, craft distillers, wineries and others are all seeking support in their export endeavours. That presented two reasons for the Chamber to bring some

special guests on board. Public Works Canada is assembling up to twenty booths from agencies, ministries and non-profits offering government services and funding support for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Together, we will also be offering a series of breakout sessions with topics like “How to Sell to Government”, “Pillars of Start Up” and “Access to Financing”. The Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters Association will present a luncheon with a keynote speaker addressing “International Trade & Export” from Vancouver Island. At the end of the day, Commu n ity Futu res hosts a n Awards Reception honouring Best Booth, Most Interactive and People’s Choice titles. The reception, hosted by the Coast Bastion, includes appetizers and refreshments. Access to t he T rade Show and breakout sessions are free but there is a small fee for the l u n c h e o n , a n d for n o n-e xhibitors to attend the Awards Reception. Mark October 20 in your calendar whether you’re a business in the com munity w ith s o m e t h i n g to s h o w o f f, a n entrepreneur interested in developing your business ideas, or a consumer interested in emerging trends and new, breaking products and services. Business Expo only happens once a year, call us today so your business doesn’t miss out. Kim Smythe is CEO of the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce. He can be reached at ceo@ nanaimochamber.bc.ca

Island home sales cool for July

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ANCOUVER ISLAND – Home sales in the Vancouver Island area cooled somewhat last month but posted a 19 per cent increase over July 2015. In July 2016, 608 single-family homes sold on the MLS® System compared to 512 last July. Month over month, sales decreased by 15 per cent from the 712 sales processed in June 2016. Last month’s active listings for single-family homes totalled 1,577, down 34 per cent from the 2,391 reported in July 2015 and beating June’s figure of 1,621. This is a historic low for the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board, which began tracking inventory levels in 1999. The last time inventory was this low occurred in 2005 when the number of single-family homes for sale dropped to 1,629. Low inventory is also

contributing to rising benchmark prices for single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments. Despite those increases, however, the Vancouver Island housing market continues to be affordable compared to the Lower Mainland and Victoria. In July 2016, the benchmark price of a single-family home in the VIREB area was $379,900, up just under 12 per cent from one year ago. The benchmark price of an apartment rose by 9.77 per cent to hit $207,900 wh i le t h e b ench m a rk pr ic e of a tow n house i ncreased to $277,900, up just over 10 per cent from one year ago. Benchmark pricing tracks the value of a typical home in the reported area. The average price of a single-family home last month was $409,816, an increase of 12 per cent over July 2015.

SEPTEMBER 2016

MEETING PLACES Connections and Community Develop through Meeting Venues Conference Centres Are An Effective Way To Promote A Community

Nanaimoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Vancouver Island Conference Centre can accommodate groups of up to 1,300 individuals BY DAVID HOLMES

he concept of a meeting place, a universally recognized location where the public can gather and where important discussions and business transactions could occur has been a part of the human

experience since the dawn of civilization. British Columbiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First Nations perfected the concept with the building of elaborate Longhouses that served a variety of social and cultural purposes. In Europe every village had a community hall or Great Hall that served an identical function. Far from diminishing,

in the electronic age the need for such facilities has become ever more important, only now the style, size and variety of the venues has reached unprecedented levels. A formal meeting place by definition can be anything from an intimate boardroom cloistering a handful of individuals in private

discussion, to a full blown conference centre with 1,000 plus delegates coming to the location from around the world. Typically a formal meeting place would be found within the structure of a major hotel, or in a specially designed and constructed SEE MEETING PLACES | PAGE 13

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MEETING PLACES

13 MEETING PLACES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12

conference facility. Regardless of scale all have the same things in common: facilitating the coming together of people in the most positive and efficient manner possible. “What a meeting place does is bring outside business, individuals and organizations to this community, which exposes it to these individuals who will ideally then look at it for alternate purposes such as leisure, travel, destination, residential and others,” explained Denise Tacon, General Manager of the Vancouver Island Conference Centre (VICC) located in Nanaimo. On Vancouver Island the Victoria Conference Centre (VCC) and its companion Crystal Garden comprises the largest operations of its type on the Island. The VCC alone provides more than 73,000 square feet of meeting space, features 19 different multi-purpose meeting rooms (including a 400 seat lecture theatre). Located directly across the street is the 25,000 square foot Crystal Garden, a historic structure in the provincial capital that is capable of accommodating groups of up to 1,100. “In our 25 years, the VCC has hosted 6,495 events generating more than $670 million in estimated economic impact for

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

SEE MEETING PLACES | PAGE 14

MEETING PLACES

SEPTEMBER 2016

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

MEETING PLACES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

Victoria,” it states on the VCC website. “Our conference centre is a key economic driver for our community. Our clients and their delegates come from a l l over the world. We attract business travelers and see them return as tourists, residents and investors.” To learn more visit the VCC website: www.victoriaconference.com Another major meeting

place in the province is the expansive Penticton T ra d e a n d Con ference Cent re ( P T CC), a va s t multi-function facility offering more than 60,000 squ a re feet of f lex i ble meeting and exhibition space. Idyllically located only blocks from the shore of Lake Okanagan the operation is the largest centre of its kind in the region and has served as a successful community ambassador for decades. The Centre’s main ballroom of fers more tha n 15,000 square feet of space,

there are eight additional meeting rooms of various sizes and it is fully equipped with the latest in audio visual and Internet based resources. “As the Okanagan’s only full-service convention facility, the Penticton Trade and Convention Centre annually plays host to conventions and conferences,” its website states. To learn more visit the P T C C w e b s i t e : w w w. pentictonconventioncentre.com SEE MEETING PLACES | PAGE 15

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For Tacon from the VICC a meeting place acts as a silent promotional partner for a community. “A meeting place can manifest a number of different opportunities for the community from the people who come here, depending on their interests. In many ways a facility like the VICC is a physical ambassador for the community.” One of the largest venues of its type on Vancouver Island, the VICC is a 38,000 square foot meeting and banquet space capable of hosting major conferences, trade shows and other p erson a l a nd bu si ness functions. The Centre can accommodate events involving as many as 1,300 people at a time, but also offers sma l ler meeti ng rooms. “Having a facility like this offers an environment where people can gather and have events in larger

“In many ways a facility like the VICC is a physical ambassador for the community.” DENISE TACON GENERAL MANAGER, VANCOUVER ISLAND CONFERENCE CENTRE

numbers. Having a major facility allows larger numbers of people to come together and celebrate or be informed all under one roof, in ways not possible if several smaller venues are used,” she said. To learn more visit the VICC website: www.viconference.com One of the premier meeti ng places i n Northern British Columbia is the Prince George Civic Centre (PGCC). As with all of the major provincial facilities adaptability and flexibility has proven to be its key to success. The largest space in the centre is its auditorium which can be either pa r t it ioned i nto t h ree separate rooms, or opened wide to provide 18,000 square feet of conference or

trade show space. Created to accommodate as many 2,000 people at a time it is the facility’s largest meeting space. The operation also houses eight smaller meeting rooms (for groups ranging from five to 140), an outdoor plaza area and p re-f u n c t i o n a re a fo r visitors to gather, register and meet and mingle prior to entering the main hall. To learn more visit the P G C C w e b s i t e : w w w. princegeorgeciviccentre.ca Regardless of scale, location or design, the province’s inventory of con ference faci l ities is among the best and most attractive in the country and will continue to well serve the province in the decades to come.

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

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

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

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

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

industry, this one-day safety workshop is for you. Learn from industry experts about fall prevention solutions through handson experience. To register to go www.bccsa.ca/fallsworkshop or for more information visit the news & events page on worksafebc.com.

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

Safety sessions

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

• Responsibilities for fall prevention in the construction industry

Where?

• Fall protection planning and procedures

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

• Ladders and scaffolding in construction

Four hands-on practical sessions

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

• Planning for safety — scenarios and written plans

Cost

• Fall protection equipment — selection and inspection

$25 + GST (lunch included)

• Fall protection options — from anchors to horizontal lifelines

for more information

• Ladder and scaffold safety — from selection to inspection

Visit the news & events page on worksafebc.com

COWICHAN VALLEY

SEPTEMBER 2016

CREATING A 10-YEAR DESTINATION DEVELOPMENT STRATEGIC PLAN

lthough the summer is a busy time for tourism operators in the Cowichan region, many have made time to participate in local and regional destination development activities. Destination BC a nd Tou r ism Va ncouver Isla nd re c e n t ly l a u n c h e d a new Destination Development prog ra m that w i l l g u ide the long-term growth of tourism ex p er iences for sout h Va ncouver Island, including the Cowichan region. O ver t he nex t eig ht to ten months, Destination BC and T AV I w i l l a s s i s t t o u r i s m

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industry stakeholders in creating a 10-year destination development strategic plan. The strategy will include: Identification of the region’s unique products, amenities and experiences; Identi f ication of strategic priorities; Identification of policy areas that may i mpede f utu re development act iv it ies; Ident i f icat ion of partners and resources needed to support goals, and Guidance on action and implementation planning The new Tourism Cowichan Society is also calling on tourism operators, businesses and organizations in the Cowichan region to provide input on regional destination marketing. A fast-paced and informative workshop was delivered by the Taiji Brand Group in early August, where industry stakeholders discussed the Destination BC bra nd a nd how the Cowichan region can benefit by leveraging it. Participants a lso prov ided i nput on a v ision for Cow icha n as a preferred destination and shared input on the tourism website and how social media can be improved. Tou rism Cow icha n is busy planning the Savour Cowichan festival, a ten day festival spa n n i ng f rom September

2 4 – October 3. Two lav ish events will be held on a floating barge in Mill Bay; while the Cowichan Valley artisan food and beverage producers host a myriad of other community based epicurean events. Check out the marquee events: Barge on In - Septemer 30 and Octoberfest - October 1 at savourcowichan.com ■■■ We are pleased to announce that the Cowichan region will once again have an Economi c D e v e l o p m e n t M a n a g e r. T he Econom ic Development Cow icha n offices have been without a permanent Manager p osit ion si nce G eof f M i l la r reti red i n 2014. T he Cowichan Valley Regional District selected Amy Melmock to fill this key position. Amy started on August 2, relocating to the Cow icha n Va l ley from Nova Scotia, where she was working as General Manager for the Neptune Theatre Foundation. Amy is a former resident of the Cowichan Valley and is looking forward to calling it home once again. A my ’s profe s s ion a l b a c kg rou nd i ncludes ex perience in economic development for regional governments, municipa l ities, federa l agencies, la rge events a nd non-prof it

orga n izations. She has pa rticular experience with strateg ic g row th i n the a rts, agriculture, tourism, IT, alternative energy and heritage sectors. ■■■ We’ve h ad a bu sy su m mer of welcom i ng new members to the Chamber: Harbour Air Seaplanes, Telus – Broadband Networks, Vancouver Island Event Catering, Canadian HazMat Environmental, Maple Bay Manor, Ancient Art of Stone, Stoneridge Sand and Gravel, Island Mobile Paws, Leeward Helicopters, Island Joy Rides – Boutique Cycling Tours, Blue Dog K aya k i ng, One Percent Realty, Taiji Brand Group, Mercury Refrigeration Products and Services, Wise Financial Services, Arctic Spas, Masons Store a nd Pat io, a nd Cast le Care Daycare Sonja Nagel is Executive Director of the Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at manager@duncancc.bc.ca or 250-748-1111

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SEPTEMBER 2016

HISTORIC HOTEL CELEBRATES 123 YEARS WITH A FACELIFT AND NEW NAME From high society to vintage car conventions the Kilninta mansion still welcomes visitors just across the bridge

UNCAN - The Ramada Duncan Hotel is a landma rk most travelers would never know turned 123 this year. It’s had several facelifts, additions and incarnations, from high society home to popular pub and hotel, but throughout the years it’s maintained a common theme of hospitality and welcome. Originally built by Ashdown Green in 1893, the stately house stood on 10 acres of land adjacent to the Cowichan River. Designed for his wife Constance, and named after a property in Scotland owned by her parents, Kilninta House was the epitome of elegance and grace seeing many from high society cross its threshold. Sixty years later in 1953, after two more owners, a bridge over the river and a new highway, the

Chuck Jamieson, who started working at the hotel in 1989, has kept a history of the 123 year old hotel. CREDIT:SHEILA LECLERC

“In 1989 Chuck Jamieson started working at the hotel; he’s been with it ever since.” SHEILA LECLERC

Meeting rooms are bright and airy and can accommodate small or large groups

SALES AND MARKETING MANAGER, RAMADA

CREDIT:SHEILA LECLERC

DUNCAN HOTEL

house was purchased by Colonel George Denson Ross-Smith and turned into the Silver Bridge Inn. Its location capitalized on the increased f low of traffic

The River Rock Bar & Grill is a popular destination spot for live music on Friday nights and an open mic on Saturdays CREDIT:SHEILA LECLERC

from the new road running past its front door. Over the next 30 years an additional motel block was added to the property and the Inn became a popular stopover for travellers heading up island or visiting the area for its natural amenities and beauty. “At the time it was one of the first places people would see com i n g i nto D u nc a n,” sa id Sheila Leclerc, sales and marketing manager. In 1987, Simon and Linda Hung purchased the Inn and began replacing room sections with areas for hosting conventions, conferences, special events and banquets. The Hungs also refurbished an older section of the house converting it into The Angler’s Tavern, paying homage to the original owner, an avid fisherman and creator of the Ashdown Green fly. “ I n 19 8 9 C h u c k Ja m ie s o n started working at the hotel; he’s been with it ever since,” said Leclerc, adding that he has religiously compiled a collection of articles documenting the history of the house, inn and hotel.

The new millennium saw the hotel take on a new identity and name, becoming the Travelodge with its signature sleepy bear sign greeting visitors as they entered the city. When the Hungs retired, their daughter Alice took over the general managing. In 2003 she SEE RAMADA DUNCAN HOTEL | PAGE 20

RESIDENTAL COMMERCIAL Congratilations Duncan Rawada (250) 748-2424

Congratulations Duncan Ramada from your Friends at

CIBC Vancouver Island Commercial Banking Team Simon Philps Director 250-356-4271

Wendell Pollard Senior Manager 250-356-4439 ext. 400

Senior Manager 250-286-4300 ext. 401

1175 Douglas Street, 2nd Floor Victoria BC V8W 2E1

952 Island Highway Campbell River, BC V9W 1B1

www.cibc.com

250 597 7853 | GoldenRuleRooﬁng.ca brendan@goldenrulerooﬁng.ca TREATING YOUR ROOF LIKE OUR OWN Congratulations Duncan Ramada on a Job Well Done

SEPTEMBER 2016

RAMADA DUNCAN HOTEL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

launched a half a million-dollar renovation that, according to Jamieson, included correct period lighting fixtures. “Two of the original fireplaces are still in use in the pub,” said L eclerc. “A not her h a s been boarded up and dry walled,” adding in a hushed tone that it and the attic/storage room were thought to be haunted. “T he story goes that every time someone tried to light a fire, the flame would mysteriously get blown out.” In 2010, the Cowichan Hospitality Group purchased the hotel and when the Travelodge contract was up in 2016 they chose to rebrand it as a Ramada Hotel. “The group felt the Ramada name was an elevated product and fit what the group was working towards achieving for the hotel.” Its latest renovations have made changes to its exterior, making it more noticeable and giving it an updated roofline, but the 34 rooms have also received splashes of colour and complete redos with Ramada’s signature red colour plus new carpets, paint, furnishings, linens, towels, mattresses and, in the bathroom, a tub surround shower combo w it h cu r ved shower curtain rod. “ We ’ v e a l s o u p d a t e d t h e a rt i n each room a nd the

configurations,” Leclerc said. Family suites now have bunk beds in addition to one queen size bed and full kitchen, and for those needing extra space, the Deluxe Family Suite has two queen beds, a pull out sofa and additional seating area. Even the pub got an update, with a modern look while still maintaining the character of the original building. L eclerc sa id t he hotel i s a bu sy pl ace, but not ju st for the overnight layover. Duncan plays big time with a variety of music festivals, like SunFest, Legends of the Valley and Rock of the Woods, attracting music lovers from across the Island and North America. It also sees its fair share of sports teams, government meetings and corporate brainstorm sessions. “Duncan is a nice half way point between Victoria and Nanaimo, with all the facilities to accommodate a variety of events.” Since the Hungs first added kitchen and banquet rooms, the RamadaDuncan has been providing services for group events, whet her it’s a conference, banquet, wedding or meeting. “We have up to f ive meeting rooms, with an additional smaller room in the pub that can be closed off and, with the Old Fork restaurant next door to the banquet rooms, it’s easy access for a banquet event.” She said that the hotel has also featured trade shows, including the annual Wedding Show and Business Showcase, pharmaceutical conventions, AGM’s of various groups, VIHA training sessions and even vintage car club conventions. Leclerc noted that the rooms are bright and open up into a courtyard where patrons can sit under one of several red maples or a 150-year-old Sequoia tree. “We can fit 250 people for a sit down dinner or lecture format and 300 if it’s a standing reception, plus our courtyard patio is licensed so drinks can be served outside.” One of the major perks of the hotel is the Old Fork Restaurant and adjacent River Rock Bar and

Sheila Leclerc is a longtime resident of Duncan and the Ramada’s sales and marketing manager CREDIT:SHEILA LECLERC

Grill. Leclerc said the restaurant, which opened in 2013, has become a staple for the community to enjoy a homecooked, everything-made-from-scratch a n d a l i t t l e -b i t- d i f f e r e n t breakfast. “I never l i ked Hol la nda ise sauce before I tried Chef Scott Walmsley’s. Now I do.” Served until 2pm, the breakfast menu has classic dishes like Huevos Rancheros, Omelettes and Eggs Benedict. But then Chef Walmsley gets a bit creative and adds a touch of the island with Crab Cake Benedict, BC Benedict, Asparagus and Tomato Benedict. A nd don’t just order an omelette, try Bird on a wire with shaved turkey breast or A Satisfied Mind with chorizo sausage, rancheros bean mix and blended cheeses, Earl Grey Oatmeal, Breakfast Banana Split, or Peanut Butter Pancakes. Leclerc explained that Chef Walmsley, her younger brother, is Celiac and because of this has built a separate menu for those avoiding gluten. “The kitchen staff makes all its ow n sauces and jam, and SEE RAMADA DUNCAN HOTEL | PAGE 21

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CREDIT:SHEILA LECLERC

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SEPTEMBER 2016

Rooms have been reconfigured with the largest family suites having two queen beds and a pull out sofa CREDIT:SHEILA LECLERC

RAMADA DUNCAN HOTEL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20

King suites are popular among corporate travelers looking for extra space

on Saturday they fire up the Smokehou se to create t hei r own smoked meats so they know exactly what goes i nto each item. They also have a separate deep fryer for our hand cut fries to avoid cross contamination and a Celiac friendly menu that includes items like lettuce wrap burgers.” Both lunch and dinner at The Old Fork are equally as unique as brea k fast. Both focu s on an array of specialty burgers from the ‘land, sea and sky’, including the Heart Attack Challenge 27, (wh ich i f fi n ished, is on the house), the Leaning Tower of Cheesa, W h at t he Cluck?, Deadliest Catch and, of course, as a side dish, deep fried pickles. The River Rock Bar and Grill offers the same menu and is housed in a portion of the

original Kilninta mansion. A destination spot for locals and visitors, Leclerc said that the ba r h a s rea l ch a racter w it h nooks and crannies and a large dance floor. Wit h l ive mu sic on Fr id ay night and a popular open mic on Saturday there are always opportunities for dancing. The music covers the spectrum of local Island talent from country music with The County Line to heavy metal from Shobocon and beach music with Tropical Mayhem. And you’ll never know what’s going to be playing on Saturdays as performers drop in to jam or even try out their latest stand-up comedy routine. Leclerc said that after a day of meetings at the hotel, it’s a great place to relax or let loose with a local craft beer from Red Arrow, Philips or Lighthouse Brewing, playing Keno, pool, watching TV or just enjoying the music, socializing or dancing. A s hdow n G re e n wo u ld b e pleased that his home has continued to act as an epicenter of social gatherings and events. Many people have crossed its threshold over the years, from social elites to corporate and athletic leaders. A lthough it has seen many changes, it still maintains that atmosphere of welcome. T he R a m ad a D u nc a n i s at 140 Trans Canada Highway in Duncan www.ramadaduncan.com

CREDIT:SHEILA LECLERC

RENEW THE JOY OF BATHING ™

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Information contained herein has been obtained from the owners or sources deemed reliable by NAI Commercial Central Vancouver Island Ltd. While we have no reason to doubt its accuracy, we regret we cannot guarantee such information. All measurements and other information herein should be independently verified by the reader or prospective user and is subject to the userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own inspection of the premises and due diligence work and to the userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s satisfaction with the results of such review.

SEPTEMBER 2016

BUILDING EXCEPTIONAL RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL PROJECTS SINCE 1993 Architrave Design Build: Specialists In Classic West Coast Style Projects

A BR IOL A â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Si mple i n form, complex in design and function, each residential or commercial project created by Architrave Architecture Design Build Ltd. is as unique and multi-faceted as the people the projects were constructed for. Born from a shared love of architecture and design, inspired by the natural majesty of Vancouver Island, and motivated by the legacy of a pioneer in West Coast architectural design, Architrave came into existence in 1993. In the following 20 plus years the firm has been responsible for creating more than 200 of the most exceptional structures found anywhere. â&#x20AC;&#x153;My father (Roger Kemble) was an Architect and he was very involved in the West Coast Modernist Movement in the 1950s and â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;60s. The work he did then was rea l ly pioneer i ng,â&#x20AC;? explained Architrave co-founder and Principle Margot Kemble. West Coast Modernism is a very specific form of architectural design that successfully melds elegance with simplicity, while emphasizing the use of natural materials such as timber and stone. A true West Coast design also uses the natural setting and topography to its advantage, ideally creating a structure that benignly fits within its environment. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Typically West Coast style features an open floor plan and will specifically respond to the environment, which thanks to our temperate climate means being able to incorporate the outside i n the desig n. West Coast Modernism designs will be fou nd a l l t he way up t he West Coast of North America from California to Vancouver and all over Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands,â&#x20AC;? Kemble explained.

Using classic West Coast design Architrave homes are always open and bright. PHOTO BY JEFFREYJ.COM

Use of solid elements such as wood, tile and steel are another hallmark of an Architrave project.

Each Architrave Design home has been created with the needs of the client in mind.

PHOTO BY JEFFREYJ.COM

PHOTO BY JEFFREYJ.COM)

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all about putting a building in the natural environment. Even when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re inside the building you still feel connected to the outside world. The building responds to the site.â&#x20AC;? The Genesis of the company occurred when Kemble met her future husband and business partner Vince Iameo when the pair attended the University of British Colu mbiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s (UBC) School of A rchitecture. Following graduation Iameo found employment in the Vancouver architectural community, but Vancouver Island and its natural beauty beckoned Kemble who began work for a Nanaimo architectural firm. Falling in love with the Islandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rustic charms, when the opportunity presented for her to branch out on her own to focus on West Coast residential construction, she jumped at the opportunity â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and has never looked back. Architrave Design Build, headquartered at 510 North Road on Gabriola Island, is literally a one

stop shop for West Coast design and construction, employing a full team of designers, builders and administrative personnel. The firm can take a project (residential, commercial or institutional) from concept right through to the handing over of the keys entirely in-house. In the past 23 years the company has experienced yearly growth, to the point that in 2014 it opened at second office, at 2404 Nanoose Station Road in Nanoose Bay, just north of Nanaimo. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Even when I was in architectural school I was always specifically interested in residential work. Vince does like working on the institutional projects. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a registered architect and a member of the AIBC (Architectural Institute of BC) so we have completed a number of commercial projects and public buildings since heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s come over and joined the firm,â&#x20AC;? she said. In addition to many exceptional and innovative homes located all across Vancouver Island and

the Gulf Islands, Architrave has produced such notable commercial structures as the Gabriola Community Health Centre, a 9,000 square foot multi function medical arts building as well as designing the Gabriola Recycling Centre. â&#x20AC;&#x153;West Coast designs are noteworthy for featuring natural materials and locally sourced materials if possible. We use t i m b e r f ra m e a n d p r i m a r y building forms such as steel, glass, metal; stone, concrete, tile and others. We live on Vancouver Island this is where Douglas Fir comes from, so all of our buildings incorporate it on some level. There is always going to be some form of timber frame in our projects,â&#x20AC;? she explained. With a focus on pu re West Coast style designs, by working closely with the clients at every stage to ensure each project is custom tailored to the needs, finances and taste of the clients, Architrave Design Build has experienced steady growth

throughout its existence. While not anticipating the need to open a third office any time soon, the company looks forward to what the future has in store. To learn more please visit the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website at : www. architrave.ca

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BETTER BUSINESS ...better lives In today’s marketplace consumer experience can make or break a business. So what does being a better business mean? We are midway into the second decade of the 21st century and, if there is a shift to be noted in the marketplace, it is the expectation of customers for businesses “to be better.” Technological advances and increased competition have contributed to the expansion of consumer choices. The Rosalind Scott, BBBVI President & CEO growing usage and inﬂuence of social media, online reviews and ratings have added transparency to the marketplace. Demographic shifts have expanded diversity and created new challenges and possibilities for businesses. These factors combined are resulting in a shift of power from businesses directly to consumers.

a special thanks to our

Community Partners

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(Victoria)

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SEPTEMBER 2016

BIGGER THAN WORK WITH ERIC TERMUENDE

COMOX VALLEY DIANNE HAWKINS

a ll is the sta rt of a new year for many people with school and busy schedules beginning. The Chamber is introducing new ways of looking at business as part of Small Business Month by bringing inspirational speaker Eric Termuende to the Comox Valley on Thursday, October 6 at the Stan Hagen Theatre at North Island College. Take the Floor: Bigger than Work w it h E r ic Ter muende aims to elevate business and create inclusivity within the business community with an

inspirational speaker followed by co ck t a i l re c ep t ion. E r ic spea ks a rou nd t he world to companies, schools, and organizations on how we are all bigger than work and if we improve people’s work environment we improve people’s lives. Eric believes that with collaboration and team work, at a company level a nd com mu n ity level, businesses and employees can thrive. Following Eric’s inspiring keynote presentation is an engaging cocktail reception at the NIC Lounge. The cocktail reception is geared towards putting your best foot forward. Bring your business cards, or another creative way of talking about what you do (door prize for the most creative). Make connections. Grow your business. Be inspired. Find collaborative partners. It all starts here. Enjoy a cash bar and appetizers from Custom Gourmet at the NIC Lounge. T ickets for Take the Floor: Bigger tha n Work w ith Eric Termuende are available September 6. $55 includes keynote

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and reception. www.comoxvalleychamber.tickit.ca ■■■ The Chamber wishes to ack nowledge t hese long-ter m members: Downtown Courtenay Business in Action: 30 year Chamber Member; and North Island College: 32 year proud Chamber member. Congratulations to these long-standing organizations in the Comox Valley. ■■■ Welcome new members: Vic’s Vac’s & Cle a n i ng Sup pl ie s, S to lt i n g G ro u p , M cK i n n o n Photography and Norse Heating. Ser v i n g over 500 memb er businesses totalling over 9000 employees; the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce is a fantastic resource for you and your business. Become a Comox Valley Chamber Member today! Dianne Hawkins is president and CEO of the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce. Reach her at dhawkins@ comoxvalleychamber.com or 250334-3234. www.comoxvalleychamber.com

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he planning staff at the City of Powell River have been busy with new development applications that, if approved, will provide a diversity of projects that will change the economy and the population in Powell River. The interest in the community has increased significantly during 2016 with a variety of new applications coming forward. We have highlighted a few of the newest projects in this column. The Chinese investment firm that purchased Block 55 in the Wildwood neighbourhood from the Catalyst Mill in Powell River is working with the City of Powell River to move forward with a large new development. The proposed project will include a master planned community featuring a private university at the core of the property, surrounded by student dorms, supporting retail outlets of approximately 100,000 sq. ft., multi- residential units, single family homes and possibly a marina. The City has been supplied with schematics for the project, and is awaiting formal applications. The City of Powell River is still awaiting a decision on an application for the

exclusion of 30 acres from the province’s land reserve in order to sell it to Sino Bright School BC. Council has given third reading in support of the application by PRSC, a joint company of City of Powell River and Tla’amin Nation. If the Agriculture Land Commission (ALC) approves the application, Sino Bright plans to purchase 132 acres of PRSC land and develop a 30-acre Townsite parcel next to Brooks Secondary School for an international school campus. Rezoning is at third reading; 30 acres of this property in the process of being rezoned to general commercial zone (C1) which will allow for the private school to be built. If the ALC approves the application, then a development and building permits can be submitted by the owner and considered by council. If the project goes forward it would present the city some opportunities to work with the developers to include items such as a cycle path along Marine Avenue leading from Townsite to Westview. The City of Powell River has been advised that partners Inclusion Powell River and Golden Life Management expect to make a rezoning application and a development application in the early Fall for a proposed 77-unit seniors housing next to Powell River General Hospital. The intention is to build the project on a 3.5-acre parcel located on Joyce Avenue between Evangel Church and the pole line. If the project proceeds, it is expected the facility will be open by the end of 2017. Clarice Coty can be reached at clarice@ buildinglinks.ca and through www. buildinglinks.ca

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BC FOREST DISCOVERY CENTRE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

visit to the Forest Discovery Centre is a ride on the train,” he explained. The BCFDC operates a 1.6 mile long narrow gauge railway that transports passengers back through time, an excursion that is always a highlight of any visit. Currently a diesel powered locomotive serves as the

propulsion for the train, with steam engines being used on most weekends and special events. “One of our major projects right now is the restoration effort for the Hillcrest #1 Shay locomotive. This will be a major undertaking but one we’re very excited about as this train worked its entire life in the Cowichan Valley and is a living part of the region’s history,” Gale said.

For visitors the highlight of any visit to the Centre is taking a ride on its narrow gauge logging train

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Hillcrest #1 is a 27 tonne steam locomotive that was built in 1920 and was used by the Hillcrest Lumber Company. The engine was used extensively in the Cowichan Valley for nearly three decades. A major repair project is now underway to bring the historic engine back to its original glory. Over the past three years it has been a priority to revitalize the BC Forest Discovery Centre making it more appealing to a younger audience, and to introduce the history and future of forest industries to a new generation. With innovative advertising, new exhibits, improved wheelchair access and a brand new animated sign from Talon Signs in Victoria the Centre has experienced a 46 per cent increase in attendance and a 300 per cent increase in memberships. Today the Centre operates numerous educational programs for visitors of all ages. The operation also assists the community by supplying more than 6,000 pounds of fruit from its newly revitalized heritage orchard and the new sign has really caught the public’s eye. “Talon Signs of Victoria have built a fantastic illuminated sign that will allow us to post messages and is very inviting to those passing the centre,” he said. “We’re only just learning how to program it, but it will be a major asset to the Centre.

Talon has also updated the interpretive signs within the park, which gives everything a fresh new look.” Keeping the Discovery Centre in operation is Gale and his staff of about 11 and a team of dedicated volunteers, a group of more than 70 who do everything from cleaning up to providing historic insights for visitors. “It is not an exaggeration to say that we couldn’t operate without our volunteers, many of whom are seniors who had worked in forestry themselves. They work very hard, and with their experience they are a resource that can’t be replaced,” he said. Another innovative project for the Centre has been the introduction of the soon to be completed two acre pollination garden which is the end result of a year’s planning. The garden will be planted to help encourage and enhance the area’s bee populations. With some funding support from the government the Centre will be able to plant and maintain what is essentially a combination bee sanctuary and pollination garden. “We’ve come a long way, but we hope with the changes the Centre will continue to be appealing and relevant for visitors of all ages for years to come,” he said. For more information about the centre please visit www.bcforestdiscoverycentre. com

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ast October, a survey of the Port Alberni business community let us know that many entrepreneurs wanted to make improvements to their commercial buildings. The majority indicated they were planning to spend under $25,000 so in January’s budget deliberations, staff asked City Council if they were willing to support a matching grant Façade Improvement Program. Council said ‘Yes’ and pro-actively allocated $50,000 to the initiative. Lori Camire, Executive-Director at Community Futures A lbern i-Clayoquot t hen stepped up and offered to research and implement the

program in order to get it in place in a faster fashion than what my work load would have allowed. Lori’s Board was so impressed with what they learned about the impact of façade improvement programs; they added $100,000 to the fund! They also added the cost of an architect’s services to ensure professional advice AND then offered up a loan program for the merchants who wanted to do more with their buildings. The last two elements of the program came out of their research into what makes for a really successful program and what challenges merchants face in participation. A two-stage application process was developed. The process stipulates that each business must be current with all taxes, licenses, permits, previous work orders and development permit conditions. It also stipulates that the contractors involved must have their business licenses. This has resulted in bringing a few entrepreneurs into complete compliance with over-due issues as a result of requests laid out by our Building Inspector and Fire Marshall on previous code matters.

Each single face improvement project had to have a minimum total renovation cost of $5,000 in order to apply. The maximum reimbursement allowed on those projects is 50 per cent up to $5,000. Reimbursement grants of 50 per cent are also being provided for corner lot, two face improvement projects with up to $7,500 allowed there with an additional $1,000 for buildings in 3 priority areas designated by Council. We are delighted to report that 26 buildings with improvements totaling over $600,000 are in the process of being approved and the first of the projects has been completed with terrific feedback. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff and Board of Community Futures Alberni-Clayoquot for their huge contribution to and investment in this program. It is improving both our curb-side appeal and business revenues. Pat Deakin is the Economic Development Manager for the City of Port Alberni. He can be reached at 250-720-2527 or Patrick_deakin@portalberni.ca

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hile we don’t have any final nu mbers yet but this summer has likely been one of the busiest in Tofino, as it has been in other areas of BC. If lack of vacancies and crowds were any indication, it certainly was. Amidst the busyness some exciting events took place over the summer, not the least of which is the annual Tofino Saltwater Classic – a fishing derby started by NHLer and part-time Tofino resident Brendan Morrison. This year’s derby raised some $60,000 for an array of local initiatives, including

the Tofino Volunteer Fire Department, the local elementary school and the Tofino Salmon Enhancement Society. ■■■ Congratulations to the Tofino Heritage Society on the recent opening of the Tofino Clayoquot Heritage Museum, located on the lower level of the Royal Canadian Legion on Main St. The realization of this project that showcases Tofino’s First Nations, and maritime and town history comes after many years of volunteer work on the society’s part. Two other NHL hockey players were recently involved in the purchase of a local resort. Willie Mitchell and Dan Hamhuis joined with developer Andrew Purdey to purchase Marina West Motel, a 63-room motel, restaurant and marina, located in downtown Tofino (previously owned by the Victoria-based LeFevre and Company). The three owners celebrated the acquisition with a community barbecue featuring

beer from Tofino Brewing Company and the music stylings of local band Little Saturday on August 14th at the resort. ■■■ Here at the Chamber we are planning several fall member activities, the first of which will be an evening boat cruise aboard Jamie’s Whaling Station’s Lady Selkirk vessel this month. Jamie’s is generously sponsoring this opportunity. ■■■ We welcomed the following new members over the summer: Tofino Soap Company, 251 Things to do in Tofino, Boulton Spice, Bean at the Cove, Renna Financial, Tofino Skylodge and Lisa Fletcher Jewellery. We welcome these local businesses to the Chamber network and look forward to serving them. Jen Dart is Executive Director of the TofinoLong Beach Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at 250.725.3153. www.tofinochamber.org

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WHO IS SUING WHOM The contents of Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 1972 Productions Inc 602-732 Broughton St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Bastion Inn Ltd. CLAIM $75,132 DEFENDANT Aryze Developments Inc 1839 Fairfield Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Queen Bee Painting CLAIM $14,740 DEFENDANT Bell Tech Systems Ltd 7TH Flr 1175 Douglas St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Owners of Strata Plan 1336 CLAIM $25,256 DEFENDANT Brittain Construction Corporation 1212-1175 Douglas St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Owners of Strata Plan 1336 CLAIM $25,256

DEFENDANT Broadstreet Properties Ltd 100 St Anns Rd, Campbell River, BC PLAINTIFF Prager, Scott CLAIM $9,657

Ltd 102-1497 Admirals Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Hourigans Carpets & Linos Ltd CLAIM $25,490

DEFENDANT CTG Building Solutions 970 Wild Ridge Way, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Property Stars Home Rescue CLAIM $10,481

DEFENDANT Homefront Ideas 6788 Wendonna Pl, Brentwood Bay, BC PLAINTIFF Sublime Custom Tile & Stone CLAIM $8,608

DEFENDANT CWS Global Welding 12774 Ivey Rd, Ladysmith, BC PLAINTIFF LJB Excavating & Trucking CLAIM $20,532

DEFENDANT Ikonomou Holdings Ltd 8-911 Gordon St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Owners Strata Corporation EPS 1336 CLAIM $10,176

DEFENDANT Dealers Own Publishing Inc 2107A Pierpont Rd, Coombs, BC PLAINTIFF Publico Properties Company CLAIM $8,322

DEFENDANT LVB Strategic Negotiations & Research Group Inc 103-9816 Seaport Pl, Sidney, BC PLAINTIFF Fritz, Justin CLAIM $6,469

DEFENDANT Dereks Appliance Services Ltd 958 Downey Rd, North Saanich, BC PLAINTIFF Fitzgerald, Wendy CLAIM $25,216 DEFENDANT Group3 Homes and Developments

DEFENDANT Manatee Holdings Ltd 1984 Comox Ave, Comox, BC PLAINTIFF Altech Diesel Ltd CLAIM $11,757 DEFENDANT

Out West Window Glass Home Maintenance Ltd 1476 Larkin Rd, Merville, BC PLAINTIFF Coastal Windows Ltd CLAIM $12,170

29 DEFENDANT Shelimar Developments Inc 1202 Fort St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Jordans Rugs Ltd CLAIM $15,492

DEFENDANT Outpost Bike Co 3202A Happy Valley Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Raleigh Canada Ltd CLAIM $25,156

DEFENDANT South Island Inspectech Building Inspections Inc 816 Dalewood Lane, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Burnside, Valerie Patricia CLAIM $25,216

DEFENDANT Pacific Rim Exteriors Ltd 3248 Puffin Pl, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Redblue Heatpumps & Refrigeration Inc CLAIM $9,272

DEFENDANT Valley Tech Contracting 3-961 Trunk Rd, Duncan, BC PLAINTIFF Mooney, Christopher Darryl CLAIM $20,000

DEFENDANT Reg Midgley Motors Ltd 202-1007 FORT ST, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Bingley, Bryden CLAIM $10,206 DEFENDANT Rock Steady Restorations Ltd 201 Selby St, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF Hourigans Carpets & Linos Ltd CLAIM $12,176

DEFENDANT Victoria Vintage China Rentals 5252 Old West Saanich Rd, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Paille, Bernie CLAIM $5,196 DEFENDANT Watertek Contracting 1781 Evergreen Rd, Campbell River, BC PLAINTIFF Lift Up As CLAIM $86,513

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Orca Sand and Gravel’s parent company, Polaris Materials Corporation, has applied for an expansion to the License of Occupation for exploration related to its new Black Bear Project near Port McNeill. The site is located adjacent to existing Orca operations south-west from Port McNeill, and covers 703 hectares of land within the boundaries of the existing and proposed extended License of Occupation. Polaris notes it hopes to achieve initial production from Black Bear in 2017.

Pope and Sons Refrigeration Ltd. of Parksville recently received the 2016 President’s Award from Carrier at a ceremony in Huntington Beach, California. The President’s Award is given to Carrier Factory Authorized Dealers that demonstrate technical expertise while serving as leaders for the Carrier brand and raising the standard for equipment sales.

Dr. Muthanna Kettana will begin practicing in Port Hardy at Port Hardy Primary Health Care Centre. Dr. Kettana is moving to Vancouver Island from Mississauga, Ontario. Brooks Bay Cable customers now have increased bandwidth and high speed internet, decreasing connection waits and slow connectivity issues, with the Port Alice Microwave Bandwith Project officially completed as of August 1. Taziker’s Restaurant and Pub is now under new ownership and features a new menu at 6435 Hardy Bay Road in Port Hardy. Black Press announces that Dave Hamilton is the new Group Publisher for its North Island Division. Wagalus Elementary School in Port Hardy celebrated its grand opening recently. Port Hardy’s Kwa’lilas Hotel is expected to finally open in September. Developers are anticipating a soft launch this month, with the restaurant and pub to open afterwards.

CAMPBELL RIVER North Island Nissan congratulates Colin Woodside upon earning the Nissan Club Excellence Award. Congratulations to two Campbell

River accounting students, Karen Hoskins and Tyler Staschuk, who passed the multi-day national Common Final Examination (CFE) recently. Coho Books is now open in a new location at 1066 Shoppers Row. The Music Plant located on 11th Avenue is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Merit Home Furniture is celebrating their grand reopening at 1300 Homewood Road. Violet and Keith Hopkins are the new captains of the Campbell River Salvation Army. They moved from Winnipeg in July to take over the role. Scott and Sarah Barrie have started a new business venture called Bough and Antler Northwest Goods. The new business features Campbell River area scenic T-shirts.

COMOX VALLEY Tracy Bono has joined the RBC Commercial Financial Services team as Commercial Account Manager for Comox Valley and Powell River. Black Market Food Truck is now open in a parking lot behind Mountain City Cycles on Fifth Street. The new food truck is the first of two food trucks opened in the City of Courtenay, which approved a new project to license mobile eateries in the city in June. Brian McLean Chevrolet Buick GMC announces that Gary

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Kremsater has been named the Top Salesperson of the Month. Billy D’s Pub and Bistro on 5th Street in Courtenay is adding patio seating to their location after obtaining provincial approval and municipal approval. The Avalanche Bar and Grill also plans on building outdoor seating for customers in the near future. After nearly seven years in her studio in Comox, Medical Exercise Specialist Mia Jerritt has sold her company, Core Studio to Daris Tendler. Mia will be moving on to pursue her dream of making her programs available on-line, starting with The Healthy Back Program.

Fresh Slice Pizza is now open at #3-2401 Cliffe Avenue in the Glacier View Plaza. Sunwest RV Centre introduces Brooke Price as their new Finance Manager. Also, Dan Hope has moved over from their service to their parts department. Sunwest RV Centre is at 2800 Cliffe Avenue. Investors Group congratulates Mandy Baker, Associated Financial Consultant, CPCA, for obtaining her Certified Financial Planner designation from the Financial Planning Standards Council.

Brother and sister duo Mark and Sari Smith have taken over Carstar Terminal Autobody at 440 East Island Highway from their dad Al Descoteau. Construction is underway on the commercial/residential complex at the Island Highway and Shelly Road, adjacent to Parksville Chrysler, notes dealer principal Bruce Alexander, who is behind the development. Island West Coast Developments Ltd. is building it. SEE MOVER’S AND SHAKERS | PAGE 32

Courtenay Kia welcomes Joel Duran to their team as their new Finance Manager. Joel brings over 10 years of international finance experience with him to the new role. Nick Copeland has been named the Salesperson of the month at the dealership. RBC Royal Bank welcomes Nicole Chow back to the Comox Valley market as the Senior Account Manager Business Personal for the entire Valley. Dr. Donald Curtis announces he will be opening a new practice this month named Sea Star Family Medicine at 2002 B Comox Avenue. Trail Bicycles is celebrating their 10th anniversary. They are at 1999 Lake Trail Road. Finneron Hyundai congratulates Jan Vandenbiggelaar for being the Top Salesperson for the month. Finneron Hyundai is at 250 Old Island Highway in Courtenay.

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Suzanne’s & Jenny’s (formerly Suzanne’s) is celebrating the grand opening of their location in Wembley Mall. Pucci’s Pet Grooming Salon is open in a new site at 1504 King Road.

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Western Edge Theatre at 25 Victoria Road has appointed Brian March as the new artistic director. Their former artistic director and theatre founder Frank Moher is stepping into the position of executive director.

Interior designer Tara Johnson has opened Twin City Design in the Alberni Valley. Ashleigh Clark of ‘The Peak’ Radio has taken a new career opportunity in Campbell River. Clark has been hosting the 2-6 p.m. afternoon drive time slot for the past two years. Guy Cicon will be retiring at the end of 2016 as the City of Port Alberni’s city engineer. Ken Watson, the city’s other on-staff engineer will also retire at the end of the year, leaving the city with a need for new professional engineers on staff.

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Through a grant application with Destination BC, the Port Alberni Chamber of Commerce is pleased to report that they have completely revamped the Visitor Services side of their website. Additionally the Chamber welcomes new members, Literacy Alberni, Orange Bridge Communications, Whalers on the Point, Duffin Cove Resort, Tonquin Fishing Charters, Botanical Garden and EcoLodge, Tofino Paddle Surf, Tofino Surf School, Chocolate Tofino, Action Pages and Sea Thru Windows.

TOFINO-UCLUELET Parkbridge Lifestyle Communities Inc, one of Canada’s largest owners of landleased properties and resorts, is looking to build next to Long Beach Lodge. Parkbridge purchased the land adjacent to the lodge that stretches out to the left of Cox Bay for $16 million in 2013. Parkbridge has proposed building a resort on the property. Phase one of the draft put forward for approval to the District of Tofino includes 30-50 units, with up to 300 units being constructed over a 10-year span.

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The Nanaimo Clippers have named Dustin Donaghy as their new assistant coach to head coach Mike Vandekamp for the 2016-17 B.C. Hockey League season.

Robert J Willis of HollisWealth has retired as Senior Investment and Insurance Advisor. Lorenzo Pederzani and his team, the Westmount Wealth Group at HollisWealth have taken over Robert’s practice.

The Art Matters Art Centre gallery and artist collective has opened in the Rotary Arts District.

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Royal LePage Nanaimo Realty announces the addition of Dan Ackerman and George Leschuk to their Royal LePage Service Group.

Steam Punk Cafe at 3025 3rd Avenue has expanded to include a free community library section in order to give to the community and promote literacy.

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17. The freshly-painted space, complete with museum lighting, is in the lower level of the Tofino Legion building at 331 Main Street.

Sunrise Ridge Waterfront Resort’s permit for 64 new units has officially been approved by Parksville council. The resort’s plan is to add 32 buildings, with two vacation rental units in each building.

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Tourism Tofino and the Tofino Long Beach Chamber of Commerce have officially separated recently, making Tourism Tofino an independent organization The Tofino Clayoquot Heritage Society (TCHS) celebrated the grand opening of the Tofino Clayoquot Heritage Museum August

Tony Harris is the developer behind a brand new oceanfront residential development called Legasea at 2835 Departure Bay Road. It will consist of six luxury penthousestyle units that feature three-bedroom and two-and-a-half bathroom units, modern furnishings, a private rooftop and other amenities. Construction on the project is set to begin later this year. Steve Marshall Ford at 3851 Shenton Road has named Adam Iverson as their Top Salesperson of the month. Moira Jenkins is the newly elected chairwoman of the Nanaimo Port Authority. Jenkins, who has been a board director since October 2014, assumed her role September 1. Doug McInulty has topped the sales charts for the month at Nanaimo Toyota at 2555 Bowen Road. Vancouver Island Hot Tubs has moved to a new location at #2 - 4151 Mostar Road. Amrikko’s By the Sea is planning to re-open at the corner of Departure Bay Road and Wingrove Street. Development plans have been submitted to the City of Nanaimo that would see the construction of a 904-squaremetre two-storey mixed-use building. The proposal features four residential units on the top floor and space for four commercial units including Amrikko’s. The Indian restaurant closed down after a fire damaged large portions of the building in 2013. Mike Corrigan, CEO of BC Ferries, said that he will resign, effective March 31, 2017. The announcement was made at the annual general meeting of the ferry corporation. An executive search has already commenced and will be looking at potential candidates both within BC Ferries and outside. Chantelle Norris has created Nanaimo Contemporary Ballet, the city’s first youth ballet company dedicated to neoclassical ballet. The new studio is at 2138 Bowen Road. The Landing Liquor Store is now open in the Brooks Landing Shopping Centre. ETSY, an online marketplace for entrepreneurs to sell their handmade or vintage goods, is celebrating the ‘buy local’ movement with pop-up shops across Canada, including Nanaimo. On September 24 Nanaimo will be one of 30 communities participating with 45 artists and SEE MOVER’S AND SHAKERS | PAGE 33

MOVERS AND SHAKERS

SEPTEMBER 2016

MOVERS AND SHAKERS

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CONTINUED FROM PAGE 32

entrepreneurs represented and at an event to be held at Nanaimo North Town Centre. Woodgrove Chrysler congratulates Eric Van Den Akker on his 20th anniversary of employment with the local dealership. Mali Esthetics is opening an esthetics and hair shop in the Hawthorne Corner on the corner of Wakesiah and 2nd Street. After 39 years with CIBC, Financial Advisor Alison Glencross has decided to retire. She has been working out of CIBC’s branch in Country Club Centre, and is looking forward to spending time with her grandchildren and doing some traveling. Generations Farms has moved to 3055 Quennell Road in Yellow Point. Yesteryear Farms has a new business license for its artisan meat business, at A-1981 Wilfert Road in Nanaimo. Ting Shang is holding a “soft” opening for the new Chinese restaurant at Port Place called Niche, “authentic” cuisine and delicacy. Strong Nations on Bowen Road, specializing in aboriginal gifts and educational books, are now supplying BC Ferries with four of their books. BC Robotics and Fastenal will be moving into a building being constructed at the back of Industrial Plastic and Paints on Boxwood Road. Sushi Wara has been under renovation at 108-50 Tenth Street and have switched from a carry-out to a sit down restaurant. New businesses: Euphoric Events & Entertainment, an event and wedding planning business at 103-584 Rosehill Street; Stay Gold Cleaning Services, a janitorial service at 34 Irwin Street; Beverly Mennie Counselling, formerly with Fraser Health, at 15-1601 Bowen Road. New Threads Alterations has taken over the former location of Dr. Bunting’s Chiropractic Clinic at 7175 Lantzville Road. Fit 4 Less is the name of the new gym coming to Nanaimo North Town Centre. Ken Venucci has left his position as buyer for Corporate London Drugs, and Cliff Fong has taken his place Janice Perrino is the new CEO for the Nanaimo and District Hospital Foundation. Children’s Treehouse is moving from Commercial Street to Country Club Centre.

LADYSMITHCHEMAINUS Vancouver Island Insurance Centre welcomes Sandra Narduzzi, Commercial Insurance Specialist to their team. Sandra will be working out of the Ladysmith office Thursday and Friday. New businesses in Ladysmith: Classic Pest Solutions Ltd. has opened at 781 Colonia Drive, and Brown Stone Masonry and

The Installation of the new Executive for the Ladysmith Legion was sworn in recently. The team includes Lorraine Stacey, Bill Stacey, Vanessa Izon, Diane Atherton and Karen Graczyk. Incoming President Jeanne Seney has also taken over from past president Gary Phillips. Vancouver Island Regional Library (VIRL), the community of Chemainus and the Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) are preparing to build a new library at 9796 Willow Street. The new 5,000-square-foot library is being built to replace the existing facility.

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Chemainus Valley Museum is celebrating their 25th anniversary.

COWICHAN VALLEY

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The Cowichan Valley Capitals recently announced they have a new majority owner for their B.C. Hockey League team. Ray Zhang is an international businessman from China and will take over from former owner Cory Wanner of Saskatchewan, who bought the club in 2013. Local minority owners still remain in the Duncan-area. Bob Beatty will continue as general manager and head coach.

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Raw Food and Juice Bar in Duncan is scheduled to open in early October. The Island-based restaurant chain currently has one location in Victoria and two in Nanaimo.

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My Secret Salon & Hair Esthetics is celebrating their first anniversary in business. The shop on Station Street in Duncan and is a full-service hair and esthetics salon. The doors to Rainforest Arts have officially opened. The opening took place at the gallery in the Chemainus Community Branch of Coastal Community Credit Union, which hosted the event and is renting retail space in its building to them. Jenny Gilbert is the new owner of Bistro 161 which she has renamed Gourmet Gardens Restaurant. Jenny bought the restaurant eight months ago and developed her own menu, based on culinary skills she developed in Hong Kong and over the years. The restaurant is located at 161 Kenneth Street in Duncan. Duncan will be home to the country’s first teaching incubator seed farm, thanks to a $70,000 grant awarded from the provincial government. The funding will be used to establish a 3.5-acre farm near Alexander Elementary School. The land is owned by the Municipality of North Cowichan, which has provided a five-year long lease to the Cowichan Green Community Society. South Shore Cabinetry, which has been operating in Lake Cowichan for three years, has received 12 nominations for CARE Awards. The Lake Cowichan business currently employs 13 people. South Cowichan Pharmacy at 845 Deloume Road is planning a sizable renovation. Villa Eyrie Resort on the Malahat – the former Aerie Resort - which is connected to the new Vancouver Island Motorsport Circuit near Duncan, is expected to open in September.

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OPINION

SEPTEMBER 2016 A division of Invest Northwest Publishing Ltd. Vancouver Island Office 25 Cavan Street,Nanaimo, BC V9R 2T9 Toll free: 1.866.758.2684 Fax: 1.778.441.3373 Email: info@businessexaminer.ca Website: www.businessexaminer.ca

PUBLISHER/EDITOR | Lise MacDonald SALES | Shawn Bishop – shawn@businessexaminer.ca, Josh Higgins – josh@businessexaminer.ca, Joanne Iormetti – joanne@businessexaminer.ca WRITERS | Julia MacDonald, John MacDonald, Beth Hendry-Yim, David Holmes WEBSITE | John MacDonald – john@businessexaminer.ca

GOOD ECONOMICS IS BAD POLITICS IN THESE TUMULTUOUS TIMES If voters don’t do their own due diligence, their ballots will most likely be cast based on the last emotional outburst to catch their attention prior to MARK MACDONALD

“I

didn’t know what I was voting for.” T hose words sti l l haunt me. It was one of several similar quotes from British citizens who cast their Brexit votes in favour of Great Britain leaving the European Union. Whether or not the “yes, let’s leave” vote is good or bad for the United Kingdom remains to be seen, and we’re not about to debate it here. Never t heless, I do bel ieve there is a dangerous mindset that pervades today’s electorate, which is not thinking at all. Citizens are urged to get out and exercise their votes, which is a good thing. But bei n g i n for med a nd educ ated about the issues a nd ca nd idates who will make decisions on ou r b eh a l f i s even more important. If voters don’t do their own due diligence, their ballots will most likely be cast based on

scribbling down their ‘X’ the last emotional outburst to catch their attention prior to scribbling down their ‘X’. Most sales decisions are made from an emotional base, and marketing reflects that. Mood swings very clearly drive many con su mer pu rch ases, but i f that’s all that determines the outcome of an election, we’re all headed for big trouble as a society. Du ring a recent election, a group of young to middle-aged people met to hear from candidates – or be heard. Many were unemployed and/or on income assistance. At the beginning of the session, candidates were asked, bluntly: “What are you going to give me?” Ju s t t h e b ra s h n e s s o f t h e quest ion, wh ich ca me f rom multiple sources, was shocki n g . B u t i t w a s t h e m i n dset beh i nd it t h at wa s most

t ro u bl i n g. W h at t hey were asking - and by doing so, suggesting - was they would vote for the person that would give them the most in terms of more government funding. O ne c a nd id ate’s re s p on se to the question was the party they represented would offer opportunity, in terms of education a nd tra i n i ng so i nd ividuals who needed a helping ha nd up so they cou ld move towards being economically self-sufficient, which would result in feeling better about themselves and having a bright future. T he respon se to t h at wa s, genera l ly, bla n k looks. Followed by a not her quest ion, much like the first: “What are you going to give me?” That question, obviously, is pervasive in North America. It seems to get elected, all politicians need to do is promise to continue to shovel more money off the back of the truck into the hands of those who vote for them. Yet that isn’t corruption. On the other hand, if a candidate went to a company and prom ised to g ive them cont ra c t s a n d f u n d i n g i f t h e y voted for them, that would be corruption. What’s the difference? There isn’t any. Both “methods” are corrupt. It’s just that the former hasn’t been identified as such, a nd most l i kely won’t

by those who fea r they’d be branded for “poor bashing”, or being heartless and cold. The end result is where we sit today: Political class warfare, where it’s okay to bash the “one per cent” or “two per centers” – you know, often the ones who create private sector jobs. And simultaneously empower those on the other end of the spectrum who either have to be, or want to be, totally government dependent. If this trend continues – and it shows no signs of abating – we could soon reach the point where the most powerf u l people in a country would be the unemployed and, perhaps, uninformed. I recently sat through a semi n a r t h at d i scu ssed whet her good econom ics cou ld be good politics. The conclusion reached by most was that it could not. If what really needs to be done to improve and susta i n a cou ntry’s economy is promised, i.e. realistic budgets and fiscal restraint where nec e ssa r y, voters wou ld t u r n it down. Belt tightening and “tough love” are necessary ingredients in strong and poor economies. Restraint is needed during times of largesse, in order to store up for leaner periods that doubtless will come through other stages of economic cycles. W hen government revenues are weaker, they

can’t provide as many services as voters demand. This is how the “real world” works, isn’t it? It is how government should work, but doesn’t. I f a politicia n today sa id they were go i n g t o t r i m go v e r n m e n t spend i ng – mea n i ng reductions in public service jobs – don’t you th i n k there’d be a concerted, forceful pushback? It would have to be a genuine financial mess before the majority of the electorate would vote for someone to clea n it up. And at this moment, North America isn’t there. A sudden jump in interest rates would get it there instantly, as would a major international conflict. So here we sit, with yet more major elections looming that are so important to millions of people. And all we seem to hear is emotional outcries designed to enrage the masses and avoid i mporta nt issues, d row n i ng out reason a nd pol icies that cou ld a f fect generat ion s to come. Most are now asking, “What are you going to give me?” Joh n F. Ken nedy who fa mously put it another way during his U.S. Presidential campaign decades ago: “A sk not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country.” Would JFK get elected today asking that now?

(33.5 per cent) while spending much more on the basic necessities (56.5 per cent). In fact, since 1961, the total tax bill has increased by 1,939 per cent, outpacing increases in shelter costs (1,425 per cent), clothing (746 per cent), and food (645 per cent). Even after accounting for inflation (the change in overall prices), the tax bill shot up 152.9 per cent over the period. A nd now taxes eat up more income than any other single family expense. While taxes help fund important government services, the issue is the amount of taxes that governments take compared to what we get in return. With more than 42 per cent of income going to taxes, Canadians might wonder whether they’re getting the best value for their tax dollars. That’s up to you to decide.

B u t to m a k e a n i n fo r m e d assessment, you must have a complete understanding of all the ta xes you pay. Un fortun ately, it’s not so st ra ig htforward because the different levels of government levy such a w ide ra nge of ta xes, w it h many buried in consumer prices. Therein lies the value of our calculations. A n i n formed citizen ry ca n h ol d go v e r n m e n t m o re a cc ou nt a ble for t he money it spends, and continue a public debate about the overall tax burden and whether we’re getting our money’s worth.

TAXATION = #1 COST FOR CANADIAN FAMILIES That’s 42.4 per cent of income going to taxes – more than the 37.6 per cent that goes to food, clothing and shelter combined CHARLES LAMMAN THE FRASER INSTITUTE

A NA DA - W hat’s your family’s largest expense? Canadians might say housing or food. But in reality, taxes consume more of the average Canadian family’s household income than anything else. W hen we say ta xes, we’re talking about all the taxes you pay to all levels of government.

This includes visible and hidden taxes: income taxes, payroll taxes, sales taxes, property taxes, health taxes, fuel taxes, vehicle taxes, import taxes, alcohol taxes and much more. A recent study by the Fraser Institute tracked the total tax bill of the average Canadian family from 1961 to 2015. For 2015, we estimate that the average family (including single Canadians) earned $80,593 in income and paid $34,154 in total taxes. That’s 42.4 per cent of income going to taxes – more than the 37.6 per cent that goes to food, clothing and shelter combined. Indeed, Canadian families spend more on taxes than the basic necessities of life. It wasn’t always this way. In 1961, the first year we have calculations, the average family paid a much smaller portion of its household income in taxes

SUBCRIPTIONS | $45 PER YEAR (12 ISSUES), $80 FOR 2 YEARS (24 ISSUES), SUBSCRIBE ONLINE: BUSINESSEXAMINER.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, 2016. Canadian Publications Mail Acct.: 40069240

LAW

SEPTEMBER 2016

NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN THE CANADIAN MUSIC BUSINESS Through its acquisition

LAW

of MediaNet and Audiam,

SOCAN can identify music on digital services

SOCAN has greatly increased its ability to be

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

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

of MediaNet and Audiam, SOCA N ca n identi fy the use of music on digital services such as Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube and Google Play. W hen songs are performed, in addition to royalties compensating the songwriters and music publishers, there are also royalties compensating the artists who perform the songs and music recording companies. P r ior to acqu i r i ng Aud i a m, SOCA N was not i nvolved i n col lecti ng roya lties for performing artists and music recording companies. I n c on t ra s t, a s i g n i f i c a nt portion of the business of Au d i a m wa s t h e c ol le c t ion of roya lt ies for p er for m i ng

a rtists a nd music record i ng companies. With the acquisition of Audiam, SOCAN now has the capabi l ity to col lect song w riter-music publ isher royalties and performing artist-music recording companies roya lt ies. Wit h ch a nges broug ht on by t he i nter net, songwriters and performing artists had become frustrated by the ineffectiveness of the performing rights organizations in the collection of royalties, resulting in a fracturing, w ith new perform i ng rights organizations being formed by the disenchanted. T h roug h its acqu isition of Med ia Net a nd Aud ia m, SOCAN has greatly increased its ability to be effective at identi fy i ng uses of music on the internet and collect royalties. SOCAN’s acquisition of Audiam’s expertise in collecting royalties for performing artists and music labels, has been hera lded by some com mentators a s a n i mpor ta nt new development that ra ises the possibility of SOCAN becoming a “one stop shop” on the Ca n ad i a n mu sic scene. T he fact that Med ia Net a nd Audiam are U.S. based also suggests that SOCAN will become more active in collecting royalties in the United States.

ISLA OWNEND OPER D & SINCE ATED 1968

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