Focus on Business 2014 by Northeast News

Inland Auto Centre Ltd.|11600 8 St., Dawson Creek, BC |250-782-5507

Inland Auto Centre Ltd.

Your One-Stop Shop for all you vehicle needs Inland Auto Centre has been a Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep dealer for over 40 years. Inland also changed to new ownership at the beginning of 2013 and is proud to announce Dan Brennan, who has been with Inland for over 23 years, is now General Manager and part owner along with Robin Campbell. Inland has 35+ employees with many years of experience in their related fields, whether in sales, service or parts. We are like a family at Inland and it’s our priority to improve customer satisfaction and customer service to make

any costumer feel welcome. We continue to grow as a business and so we have recently increased our sales staff to meet growing consumer demands. In addition, General Manager Dan Brennan is proud to announce the opening of Ride “N” Style located at 11609 7th Street, just behind Inland Auto Centre. They offer suspension lift kits, custom bumpers, automotive lighting, box covers, custom wheels and tires, winches and more, to all makes and models. Te-

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• Suspension Lifts • Custom Bumpers • Automotive Lighting

nacious Detail has also relocated their business to the same building for all your automotive detailing.

www.inlandautocentre.com for a virtual tour of our dealership Inland is always trying to grow and expand and make it a one-stop shop from vehicle purchase, finance, fleet, parts, service and now tires and accessories installation. From everyone at Inland Auto Centre, we would like to give a big thank you to all of our customers. We will continue to improve, to keep our customers happy and to gain more customers by continuing to grow and making Inland Auto Centre a one-stop store. Feel free to visit our web site at www.inlandautocentre.com for a virtual tour of our dealership and also join us on Facebook and Twitter.

• Truck Box Covers • Custom Wheels & Tires • Winches & More

Page 2 • Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014

9422 100 St., Fort St. John, BC |250-787-1544 |

Charnwood Creations

Charnwood Creations- Masterpeace Framing Framing & Engraving

bring the quality services of both comIn 2011 Masterpeace Framing expanded into the recognition and engrav- panies together, while retaining their unique differences and specialties as ing business and took over Charnwood Creations, merging the creative talents separate entities. Taking that step has strengthened of its framing staff, with over 20 years experience in the industry, with the their framing business and expanded tools and know how to create quality Charnwood Creations in its own right, bringing the McAleneys’ well estabengraved products. It all started when Allan McAleney’s lished creative talents to a company wife, Roxanne, decided to take a framing that was treasured in the community, course, thinking she could run it as a home but was losing ground. b a s e d At Charnbusiness Talented staff has mastered the wood Crewhile she ations, professional look and creative w h i c h took care of their you will flair you’re looking for. y o u n g f i n d family. She tucked enjoyed it more than expected, and so into Masterpeace Framing, convenientthey decided to open a store instead. ly located on 100 Street at 94th Ave“The more we got exposed to the pic- nue, you’ll receive individualized service that can’t be beat. ture framing business, the more we both For oil field and industry related serfell in love with it,” he said. The McAleney family frequently used vices, Charnwood Creations offers the services of Charnwood Creations to same day turnaround where possible. add custom engraving to frames, as cus- For commemorative items, Charntomers would request special words on wood specializes in everything from plaques, wood or glass for commemora- plaques and trophies for school and sporting events, to special awards and tive gifts. recognition products, as well as memoCharnwood Creations was its own business that traded hands and locations rial engraving. many times over its 40-year history. Inscribed vases, glasses and goblets When Allan phoned them for one such are all possibilities, and gifts for brides product in January of 2011, he was told and grooms, milestone anniversaries it could be the last time, since they were and graduations are popular choices. moving and hoped to sell the business. Charnwood’s talented staff has masThat’s when the McAleney family tered the professional look and crestepped to the plate, and decided to ative flair you’re looking for.

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 Pictured above is owner Allan McAleney displaying an engraved BBQ set. Below is his daughter Jesssica McAleney showing off her talent for framing and engraving.

Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014 • Page 3

Table of Contents

Feature Businesses for 2014

Inland Auto 2 Charnwood Creations 3 Contents 4 HairBin 5 Northern Auto 6 Fort Motors 7 Serenity Spa 8 Serenity Spa 9 Northeast News 10 Northeast News 11 Fort St. John Stats 12 Dawson Creek Stats 13 Driving Force 14 Creative Key Digital Imaging 15 Fort St. John Co-op 16 Pat’s Auto 17 Edge 18 Arrow Insurance Agency 19 Trail Blaz’n Power 20 Brauns Flooring & Home Decor 21 SpeeDee 22 Murray GM 23 Northeast BC Realty 24

Page 4 • Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014

10442 100 St., Fort St. John, BC |250-787-1552 |

The Hair Bin

Health & Body Wellness and Spa The Hair Bin - This full service salon and barber shop, which has been in Fort St John since 1986, is known as the ‘People’s Salon’ because it is known to welcome customers of all ages, with great customer service. “Customer service is everything to us” said Lorraine Isenbecker, owner of the Hair Bin, which has been a People’s Choice winner for nine years. “We know that our customers coming through our door are valuable to us therefore our customer service must express this so they can feel valuable, welcome and comfortable getting their services.” We have the largest retail salon in the north and offer a number of services for our customers to enjoy. Our men’s garage themed Barber Shop, complete with big screen TV’s and Xbox offers walk-ins so customers can come in when it best suits their schedule. We are just in the process of expanding to 8 stations to help serve you better On the beauty salon side, the business can handle large party bookings, such as weddings, due to a larger staff. They also try to offer walk-ins, where possible. The business offers a variety of spa services - from pedicures, manicures, gel nails, relaxation massages, waxing and facials and health products that take care of their customers. The salon even has it’s own product line. The businesses long term goal

is to expand its beauty service product further sometime in the future. For now, it continues to offer the service customers in the region have come to enjoy and provides training to local people wanting to get involved in the beauty industry - an important aspect of the business, said Isenbecker, is training local stylists. The Hair Bin recently extended its hours and is open until 8 p.m. on Wednesdays Thursdays and Fridays, to ensure their customers have options for their services. Its location is central in the city and is easily accessible, offering senior’s discounts and gift certificates.

Health & Body Wellness and Spa Life needs many moments like these....... Serenity. Tranquility. Peace. Everyone needs to take time for themselves. To relax, to re-charge and re-energize. Be pampered at the elite HB Health& Body Wellness and Spa. Rejuvenate mind, body and soul with a massage or body wrap. Bring your partner for a deluxe couples massage or bring a friend, parent, or child and share some special quiet time together.

At HB Health & Body Wellness and Spa, we offer a wide variety of massage services, organic mani- pedi combo, body wraps, exfoliation, waxing and much more. Our newest services include laser hair removal for women and men, electrolysis and laser body contouring to target those troublesome inches. Just newly arrived, the SlimX System which is the rage in the USA for loosing unwanted inches. A 30 minute relaxing massaging, infra red treatment that opens your fat cells and eliminates them through your lymphatic system. Treatments can be purchased separately @ $75.00 or 3 for $125.00. Receive a complimentary session with each package purchase. Book an appointment for yourself today or pickup a gift certificate for that special someone in your life, for a friend, or as a thank you for that hardworking employee. If you haven’t tried the Hair Bin or the HB Health & Body Wellness and Spa, Isenbecker said, it’s important that you do. “We care about people and we’ll keep trying to exceed customer service expectations by continuously improving our customer service.”

Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014 • Page 5

Northern Auto Electric|9005 109 St., Fort St. John, BC |250-785-5710

Northern Auto Electric

‘Electrying’ the Northeast since 1994 Specializing in electrical repairs, Northern Auto Electric has served the automotive needs of customers throughout the region for more than 19 years. Doris Donszelmann said they draw upon the expertise and equipment at the shop to do repairs that a lot of other shops can’t do. That includes running diagnostics (tests) on electrical systems or reprogramming (reflash) onboard computers (which can sometimes fix transmission problems), improve gas mileage, correct false trouble codes and other problems. “We’re looking at on-board computers, lights, electric windows, electric door locks, we repair all of that,” said Donszelmann. “It’s a specialty because a lot of shops don’t even want to touch electrical work. You have to understand programming. A vehicle consists of one main computer module, and then maybe 50 to 100 modules underneath that. We have all the programming and equipment to be able to do that kind of stuff, and a lot of people don’t.” Northern Auto Electric started off rebuilding starters and alternators, but has built up an inventory of automotive parts over time and has since become Auto

 Northern Auto Electric Ltd. has been in business to serve since 1994. Over those years, the services the company offers have expanded greatly.

parts person. Sense Parts Store. “One of our service technicians has been They carry all kind of parts, including some heavy-duty parts like VMACs (vehi- doing this for 30 years and another has been in the field for ten years,” said Doris. cle-mounted air compressors) and what they don’t have they order. The repair shop “It’s very valuable to have that kind of exservices and installs Webasto and Proheat perience.” Northern Auto Electric serves customers engine pre-heaters, inverters and legal driving lights approved by the Society of from Chetwynd to Fort Nelson and even some in Alberta. They see anywhere beAutomotive Engineers (SAE). tween three Doris said they work on “We also work on RVs, holiday to 10 vehicles a day, all makes and trailers, motorhomes, boats … most of d e p e n d i n g models. on the size “We also their problems are usually electrical.” work on RVs, of the job. About half holiday trailof their business is serving oilfield compaers, motorhomes, boats … most of their problems are usually electrical.” nies where they perform changeovers of Doris’ husband, Peter, has worked as an things like lights, pilot signs and methanol automotive technician for 30 years. When tanks from old trucks to new trucks. the previous shop he worked at closed, the couple decided to start their own business, which was incorporated in 1994. They moved into their current location, a 8,400-square foot shop at 9005 109 St, which has 4 shop bays and a front show 9005 109 St., Fort St. John, BC room. They currently employ seven people, 250-785-5710 including four service technicians and one

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Page 6 • Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014

11104 Alaska Road, Fort St. John, BC |250-785-6661 |

Fort Motors

FORT MOTORS LTD.

Fort Motors

Full service Ford dealership & Forest River RV Dealer Fort Motors, a full service Ford dealership with an RV department, has been serving the Fort St. John community since 1961. The company that started with Wally and Opal Gentles has remained in the family, as the couple’s youngest son, Brian, bought it from his parents in 1993. About two-and-ahalf years ago, Brian added a new general manager and partner, Bud Williamson, to the Fort Motors family. The business has grown remarkably from its earliest days, which Derrick Clark, service manager, attributes in part to their customer oriented model of business and exceptionally skilled long term employees. While Fort Motors brings in some of the best talent from elsewhere,

 Fort Motors in Fort St. John is one of the biggest in the industry, with over 60 employees

they also support Northern Lights College heavily and draw the best local talent to work in their service department. Fort Motors does everything from tire changes to major engine overhauls, and their extended hours, on weekends too, give them an edge above their competitors. “It’s a full menu of anything that you wish to have done,” said Clark. While Fort Motors is one of the biggest in the industry, with over 60 employees, they’re still growing. In fact, over the last three years they’ve gone from 20 service technicians to 30, a substantial increase. For more information, go to www.fortmotors.ca, or drop by 11104 Alaska Road North, Fort St. John.

Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014 • Page 7

Serenity Spa | Kaps Road, Charlie Lake, BC |250-785-0263

Serenity Spa

You are why we are here! This year is the fifth year of business for Serenity Spa and the owner and staff would like to thank all of you who love the spa the way you do. We know that without you, we would not have a business and be able to offer our unique services to this area. At the spa, the intention is to always provide a space where we can deliver our wellness and aesthetic services in the most relaxed and friendly atmosphere possible. We realize that each of our clients are unique and we’ll try to get to know you so that we can make your experience the best ever. If you ask for what you want, we will do our best to deliver. Our intention is to create a lasting impression you won’t soon forget. When you enjoy something you do, you want to do it again and again, and this is the expectation we have for you. We know that there are several businesses that offer similar services, but there are a number of factors that set Serenity Spa apart: The location: In a secluded spot near Charlie Lake, where it is peaceful and quiet, you will be welcomed at Serenity Spa. While you see the sign from the road, you will not see the building. Serenity Spa is in a house surrounded by trees and, like a hidden oasis, you may have difficulty finding it without directions. Once you have found us, you will be pleasantly surprised. You will see a house and think, maybe someone lives there, but no, it is entirely used as a spa. With five treatment rooms and a sauna room, you will find we can appear busy from the outside when there is still room for you inside. There is ample parking out front. The ambiance: When the house was chosen to be a spa, it worked due to the wonderful hardwood floors and fireplaces. The rooms are named chosen crystals and painted in colours that are relaxing and designed to please the eye. There is plenty of room to relax before and/ or after your treatments. We serve complimentary beverages and will bring in lunch if desired. The spa is designed to be your home away from home where the staff are your friends. The Full-time Professional Staff: Patricia Willis, a retired registered nurse who followed an urge to teach relaxation, and began offering Lymphatic Massage, Reflexology and Colon Hydrotherapy when she first opened the spa. When Linda Klamut joined her, in 2009 the spa services expanded.

As a Reiki Practitioner (a form of hands-on alternative medicine) she brings her very caring attitude to each treatment. Linda is our Microderm Abrasion specialist, doing facials, skin care treatments with IPL (advanced laser technology), LED, and RF (radio frequency), pedicures and massage. Robin Combs joined the staff in 2010 making it possible to service the public with a full menu of aesthetic services. Robin brought several years of experience and many of her long time clients, who appreciated her expertise. Robin will strike you as a consummate professional in all that she does. She is friendly and an expert at her craft. She, like Linda, is trained in skin care treatments with IPL, LED and RF therapies. Whitney Linville came to Serenity Spa in 2012, as a newcomer to the Peace. Like Robin, Whitney delivers the full line of aesthetic services, bringing several years of experience from southern BC. Whitney was a welcome addition to the staff as a caring, friendly goal-oriented and ambitious esthetician. She quickly fit in and helped organize the spa and serices within it, and soon took on some management duties and built a clientele. Iryna Semenukha is the newest addition to the Serenity staff. She is from Ukraine and is working in Canada while her husband studies at Northern Lights College. She is a fully qualified aesthetican and is enjoying the work atmosphere and friendly staff at Serenity. You will enjoy Iryna’s expertise, her sweet disposition and smiling countenance. Our wonderful part time staff who help us so often and offer their own specialized services are:

Page 8 • Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014

Kaps Road, Charlie Lake, BC |250-785-0263 |

Sandra Zoerb – Crystal Balancing, Bio-pulsar Aura Reading, Certified by Colour Energy. Judy Templeton – Healing Touch Practitioner, delivering Relaxation 101, a descriptive term used by Judy, which allows her to use her choice of many modalities she has been trained to deliver. Judy is also the artist, displaying her creations at Serenity Spa. These may be purchased at the spa as well. Sarah Collins – Aesthetician Angela Guile – Healing Touch Practitioner, Massage and Reflexology. The “green” element: The owner and staff have chosen to use organic products for all of their treatments, keeping your well-being as the top priority. Their choice was Eminence, a world remowned organic skin care product. The staff at Serenity Spa were trained directly by the president of the company in a recent course and are now certified as having advanced skin care knowledge. Eminence also has a green policy, where they plant a tree for every product sold. In the past few months over 1,000 trees have been planted due to Serenity Spas clients. Our conscientious staff have chosen to conserve and recycle so that they do the least possible damage to the environment. This initiative is not enforced by the owner, but rather a preference by the staff that is encouraged by the owner. We are proud to have received certification as a green spa by Eminence, and

Serenity Spa

to be listed on their website as such. While Serenity Spa continues to expand its services and staff, there is always an “adding to” but not “taking away” from its goal to help you relax. This is our primary purpose, as we know that stress causes illness, and relaxation brings you back to balance and assists with a feeling of well-being. Pat and the staff invite you to visit our oasis and experience the difference that Serenity Spa makes. We stand in a class of our own, providing the best we can for you. A lasting impression you won’t soon forget.

www.serenityspabc.com

Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014 • Page 9

Northeast News|9909 100 Avenue., Fort St. John, BC |250-787-7030

Northeast News Committed to our Readers! With our thumb on the pulse of the community, the Northeast News is dedicated to covering the events that matter most to the residents of northeastern B.C. We’re excited to be celebrating our 10th anniversary as a weekly, regional paper, and we look forward to continuing to build on the trust that we’ve formed with our readers. Our two reporters are passionate about bringing local stories to our readership of more than 40,000 throughout the entire Peace region. Four sales staff and a graphic designer are here to serve the needs of local advertisers, ensuring their message is heard loud and clear. Our paper is free and is delivered to every household and business from Tumbler Ridge to the Yukon border. While owned by Aberdeen Publishing, which also runs papers throughout B.C. and Alberta, the Northeast News continues to operate as an independent publication. Owner Robert Doull said this remains an important aspect because it allows the Northeast News to continue to respond more immediately to our local communities, Delivered to over 18,000 whether by makhomes, farms and ing donations to businesses in Northeast BC! charitable groups Give your advertising in the area, or by message more impact! covering the isPostal Delivered to all these communities! sues that matter

most to the people who live here. Doull has been in the business in different capacities for 40 years, but his passion for newspapers hasn’t changed. “I love newspapers, I’ve read them all my life and I enjoy being associated with them. I love the element of surprise of reading a newspaper and discovering something that you just didn’t know,” he said. Last year we introduced a new logo and website, and like many other papers, we have also started building an online readership through social media. This enables us to give current information to our followers when it happens. For more information on the Northeast News and how we can better serve you, call our Fort St. John office at (250) 787-7030, or our Dawson Creek office at (250) 787-7060. Check us out online at www.northeastnews.ca.

www.northeastnews.ca

Brenda Piper Sales Manager

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Celebrating 10 years as a weekly, regional paper.

Kristine Budac Sales Consultant - FSJ

Page 10 • Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014

Evelyne Brown Administration

1509B Alaska Avenue, Dawson Creek, BC |250-782-7060 |

Northeast News

Northeast News Committed to our Readers!

How many Canadians read community newspapers? The most recent research from CCNA demonstrates that community newspaper readership remains strong. Three quarters of Canadians (73%) in non-urban centres read a community newspaper according to the 2013 study, Connecting to Canadians with Community Newspapers. The steady readership suggests that community newspapers continue to have strong readership In todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new media landscape. Community newspapers continue to remain relevant to local residents for news, information and advertising.

GET READING!

TOLL FREE: 1-877-787-7030 FORT ST. JOHN: 250-787-7030 DAWSON CREEK: 250-782-7060

Give your advertising message more impact! Bronwyn Scott Reporter - FSJ

Jill Earl Reporter - DC

Lisa MacElheren Sales Consultant - DC

www.northeastnews.ca

Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 11

business Stats

the city of fort st john

Business renewals 1,625 New business applications 129 Our members are partners in the largest business organization of the Fort St. John and District area. Our â&#x20AC;&#x153;membership areaâ&#x20AC;? has no formal boundary. If the business environment of Fort St. John affects your business your membership in the Chamber is vital. It is a partnership that brings together positive and innovative thinkers to create an active and responsible Chamber. Our members come together to solve problems and create op-

portunities to establish a more vital business environment in Fort St. John and area. Membership in the Chamber of Commerce means something different to each business, organization and individual. Obvious reasons include the reduced costs for items such as phone bills, Interac fees, discounts on gasoline prices, and car rentals. The Chamber of Commerce Group Insurance Plan is also only available for members. This plan was made for businesses with one to ten employees in mind. Many members also feel that Chamber membership is part of being involved in the community.

Page 12 â&#x20AC;˘ Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014

business Stats

the city of dawson creek

Business renewals 1,261 New business applications 72 A Chamber of Commerce is a non profit action organization designed to meet community or area needs. It is a voluntary organization of progressive individuals and businesses that work together to advance the commercial, financial, industrial and civic interest of a community. The Chamber of Commerce is the voice of business.

The Dawson Creek Chamber of Commertce is a catalyst - a common vehicle mobilizing enlightened members from all segments of the business community to work together for the common good of the toatal community. With the aim of achieving economic success, staff, volunteers and business people strive to keep their areaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s econimbic conditions at a level where businesses and residents willingly and enthusiastically risk their captial in their community in hope of making a profit.

Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Page 13

DRIVING FORCE|Airport Road, BC |250-787-0634

DRIVING FORCE

Driven to exceed expectations Customer service has always been the number one priority to Driving Force locations across Canada, and Fort St. John’s locations are no exception. Recently celebrating their 10th anniversary in the city, and over 36 years as a company, DRIVING FORCE has continually proven that they are a force to be reckoned with when it comes to customer service. Branch manager, Montana Currie, says that all purchases come with a full tank of gas, two sets of keys and an owners manual. They do a very thorough inspection of all vehicles before they leave the lot and will even take care of registering the vehicle. They rent, sell and lease vehicles of all makes and models, so customers always get what they want. “We are not tied by any manufacturer, so you can literally get anything; any make or model,” said Currie. Driving Force can provide a pick-up service for customers in town, and delivery for corporate accounts, and have even delivered vehicles across Canada. They are able to access special parts and accessories to fit the clients’ needs, without marking-up the price of the parts. Their guiding philosophy is to work together to satisfy their customers by exceeding their expectations. This ensures

tomers enjoy quality service, competitive prices, flexible financing options, unrestricted choice in vehicles, and customization of both vehicles and services. Driving Force also has a location at the Fort St. John airport, to provide ease of access to their customers. “I think that they are an excellent company to work for, an excellent company to do business with, and we are driven to exceed our customers expectations, and driven to deliver anything that our clients want,” Currie said. They are IOS certified and have been named one of Canada’s best managed companies for the eighth year in a row, achieving platinum status. Founder Jeff Polovick was even named Prairie Region Entrepreneur of the year for business to business services. Currie said that Driving Force utilizes local businesses for the service needs, and believes shopping local is important for a thriving community. Their staff that at one time consisted of three people has now grown to 32, thanks to the booming resource sectors in the area, and their ability to continually produce happy customers. Visit Driving Force on 6674 Airport Road. 250-787-0634 | www.drivingforce.ca

c u s -

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Fort St. John Co-op| 10808 91 Ave., Fort St. John, BC |250-785-9088

Fort St. John Co-op second ocation: Airport Road, Fort St. John, BC |250-785-5651

Fort St. John Co-op

 Currently there are 4,652 members at the two Fort St. John Co-op locations, which are primarily fuel distributors.

Two locations to serve you better The Fort St. John Co-op has been contributing to the community and giving back to its members for 69 years. Currently there are 4,652 members at the two Fort St. John Co-op locations, which are primarily fuel distributors. One is at 91st Avenue and the other is on Airport Road. Both feature a full Cardlock facility and a convenience store, and carry a large selection of oils and lubricants. They also have tank rentals and tank purchases, and the 91st Avenue location carries propane. For a one time fee of $5, members get to participate in the profits for a lifetime. The more you support and purchase at the local co-op, the more you’re able to partake in the rewards in cash back and equity.

Company profits always go to shareholders, but in the case of a co-op, those shareholders are members of the community. This means that all money gained from the local co-op is reinvested back in the community. Profits are calculated at the year’s end, and this year $4.7-million was given back

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and events like the North Peace Fall Fair, hosted every summer at North Pine, 21 kilometers north of Fort St. John. The Fort St. John Co-op is one of more than 230 part owners of the Federated Co-operatives, which supplies and provides distribution to member co-ops in Western Canada. The Federated Co-op has its own refinery in Regina and is gives 100 per cent Canadian owned.

The Fort St. John Co-op back to the community, last year they gave $25,000 in scholarships.

to members, of which $2.7-million was in cash. The Fort St. John Co-op also gives back to the community at large, and last year gave $25,000 in scholarships and to sporting organizations, charities, non-profits

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9708 108 St., Fort St. John, BC |250-787-2225 |

Pat’s Auto

 Pat’s Auto at its new location (inset) with a large and diverse inventory.

Pat’s Auto

Full automotive supply parts store It was from very humble beginnings that Pat’s Auto Supply Ltd. was born almost 60 years ago. Back then Pat Gorman set out to sell auto parts to dealers in Northern Alberta with little more than his 1948 Fargo school bus. Today Pat’s Auto is a multi-million dollar jobber business with 70 employees in four branches; Grande Prairie, Hinton, Dawson Creek and Fort St. John. What started as a busload of common automotive parts – belts, tires, lubricants – is now a multiple location business with over 150,000 parts in stock within their inventory system. Pat’s Auto services dealerships, repair facilities, agricul-

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tural and industrial customers as well as individual retail customers. Today’s cars and trucks are constantly changing so Pat’s Auto has adapted to meet the complex and diverse requirements of their customers. As long-term members of the UniSelect/Bumper to Bumper group, a

Pat’s Auto has adapted to meet the complex and diverse requirements of their customers. leading distributor of replacement parts, equipment and related products, Pat’s Auto has access to a vast supply of automotive, heavy truck, agricultural and industrial parts and components. Being a member also provides tremendous support in product information, training and administrative support. Pat’s Auto is also an authorized ACDelco warehouse distributor. As the OEM supplier for all GMC, Chevrolet and related badges, ACDelco offers access to their large warehouse network, computer information systems and daily delivery.

Family is the continuous thread that connects Pat’s Auto even 60 years later. Pat Gorman eventually turned the business over to his son Dan who further developed the company, partnering with Uniselect and ACDelco to enhance an already robust parts selection. Dan in turn handed the business over to Kenton Switzer, the son of long-term Pat’s Auto employee and business partner John. With a business structured and ready to grow, Kenton has expanded Pat’s Auto’s reach into North Eastern B.C. as well south from Grande Prairie into Grande Cache and Hinton. Kenton credits the success of Pat’s Auto to his staff, some of who have been with the company for over 25 years. Kenton also partners with each branch manager, ensuring local ownership and strong community roots. Superior customer service, knowledgeable parts professionals, coupled with efficient delivery and procurement processes have proven to be a successful business model.

Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014 • Page 17

Edge Controls Inc.|34 Vic Turner Road, Dawson Creek, BC |250-784-0555

Edge Controls Inc.

Dawson Creekâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Local Electric & Instrumentation Service Provider The experts at Edge Controls in Dawson Creek have been serving their customers in northern British Columbia and Alberta for over six years, and now they will be doing so from their brand new building. Edge Controls have been in their new building, located in the new industrial park on Vic Turner Road, since November. The building boasts 16,000 square feet, quite a bit larger than their previous location on 104 Ave. The move was necessary in order to accommodate for the growth they were experiencing, and to better serve their customers. Their staff of 24 consists of journeymen electricians, journey instruments techni-

cians, as well as apprentices in various states. They provide electrical and instrumentation services to the industrial and

commercial sectors and are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Some services include: power distribution and motor control, wellsite and remote terminal unit installations, calibration and testing, zedi installs and servicing, administering measurement pro-

grams, programming and support, wet meter skid, plunger lift, chart recording and dead weight testers for pressure testing, compression and project management. Edge Controls puts safety first. Employee training is ongoing and safety tickets are continually updated, such as H2S and First Aid. They are also COR-certified (Certificate of Recognition) and comply with ISNetworld, Comply Works and Browz. To date, they have not had any reportable incidents. Although they have only been in the community since September 2008, owners look forward to meeting industry demands and believe they are here to stay.

Page 18 â&#x20AC;˘ Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014

9920 107 Ave., Fort St. John, BC |250-785-1676 |

Arrow Insurance Agency Ltd. Insurance is reassurance

Arrow Insurance Agency Ltd.

 Arrow Insurance welcomes people to come in and speak with one of the staff to make sure all of your insurance needs are met.

paramount, the customer is the reason depth that they have. I would be happy to Protecting your personal assets is important to securing peace of mind when life stack them up against any body in town why we are here, and so they deserve throws unexpected events your way. Esor in British Columbia as far as knowledge, that as far as I’m concerned,” he added. they are very good,” said Kirkpatrick. sentially, insurance is reassurance. Of his 16 staff members, five have completed all four levels of their Canadian He thanks his customers for growing Fort St. John’s Arrow Insurance Agency Accredited Insurance Broker program. with him over the last number of years, Ltd. offers insurance coverage products for homes, farms, automobiles, boats, air- Together with employees experience, and truly appreciates the relationships crafts, campers, mobile homes, commer- Kirkpatrick is confident he has the most that they’ve built. He enjoys watching his customer’s families grow, and is lookcial and industrial properties and Kirkpatrick attributes the success ing forward to serving the next genall types of business liability, including oil and gas and logging. of his business to his experienced eration. Glen Kirkpatrick started Arrow “I didn’t envision having an agency staff and loyal customers. Insurance in 1981. Growing up on this big when I started it because at a farm in Fort St. John, selling inthe time, probably the biggest agency surance to local farmers became Kirkpat- knowledgable staff in town. in Fort St. John at the time had six or sevrick’s business foundation. He attributes “I have people in here that have 18 years, en employees, I didn’t envision it, but it’s the success of his business to his experi- 22 years, 28 years experience, so there is been great,” said Kirkpatrick. hundreds of years enced staff and loyal customers. of experience in this When making a claim, Kirkpatrick and his staff of 16, work to ensure their custom- agency,” he said, Kirkers are comfortable with the process, and patrick himself having that all their questions are answered. Fur- 33 years of experither, staff routinely get into the mix with ence. the insurance companies they represent “I have such loyal and their customers. and experienced “All you do is pick up the phone and say staff that it makes my I need you. We are right there to step for- job easier, it makes ward and deal with the insurance compa- it easy for me to be ny and you, and get into the mix, to make in business. They are sure that you are being treated fairly,” said very good staff, I am Kirkpatrick. very proud of their “The best interest of the customer is knowledge and the Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014 • Page 19

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Trail Blaz’n Power|47 Vic Turner Airport Road, Dawson Creek, BC |250-782-6685

Trail Blaz’n Power

Passion for Wilderness

 Staff at Trail Blaz’n Power Ltd. have been sharing their passion for wilderness with residents of the North Peace since 1995. One of the many benefits of living in the Peace region is the vast wilderness that surrounds the area. Over the last several decades the off-road vehicle industry has grown to make exploring the great outdoors easier, and more accessible. Staff at Trail Blaz’n Power Ltd. have been sharing their passion for wilderness with residents of the North Peace since 1995, but now those in Dawson Creek and the surrounding area can have access to the same knowledgable staff. Formerly, Mountainview Recreation, the name change came with a change in ownership and a change in location.Trail Blaz’n has occupied their new home on Vic Turner Road since September, and manager Dane Smith said business has never been better. “It has been very busy, we are having one of our best years since we’ve been in Dawson Creek,” Smith said. “The growth I think has a lot to do with the fact that we are in this new building...

this new location, it’s much more friendly. The machines have always been popular, now that we are here with a good building, a good yard, good people [we’re growing,” he said, adding that their old location was very congested. Their new 5,000 square foot building is accompanied by an even bigger yard that enables them to carry a larger inventory of Can-Am and BRP side by sides and all terrain vehicles, snowmobiles, ski-doos and Marlon boats. Smith said that the yard also allows customers to take vehicles on a little test drive before purchase, and that Trail Blaz’n carries something for everyone. “There are people who all they want to do is just go and play in mud, and BRP makes a mud-specific unit for that, there are people who just want to go fast, and they make a specific unit for that. There are the every day casual riders who just want to go out and have a good time, they don’t need the most powerful, they don’t need the big mud machine,” Smith said.

He said special add-ons include winches, bumpers, power steering, fender flares, better tires, roofs, windshields, radios, stereos, global positioning systems, and snorkel kits. They stock ski-doo and Sledneck clothing, boat motors and boating accessories, generators and much more. Smith said that they have also recently started selling Husqvarna lawn and garden equipment in the Dawson Creek store, although its been available at the Fort St. John location for some time. The store is even planning on expanded their current location to offer more product. Trail Blaz’n also has a service department for repairs. “Just getting out, going to places that sometimes people have never been, seeing nature, just spending a day outside, you don’t know what you’re missing until you’ve gone out there and done it,” Smith said.

Page 20 • Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014

10020 96 Ave., Fort St. John, BC |250-787-1842 |

Brauns Flooring & Home Decor

Brauns Flooring & Home Decor Style Selection & Quality Braun’s Flooring and Home Décor got started in 2002, but owner and manager Jake Braun brings more than 30 years of experience to the business. As the economy shifted at the turn of the 21st-century, the time was right for Jake to step out on his own and launch his company, which has taken the local scene by storm and quickly risen to become an industry leader. Style, selection and quality is what sets Braun’s apart from its competitors, and has enabled the business to grow to become the largest flooring store north of

Edmonton. Their skilled staff of eight specializes in residential and commercial products, including window coverings and paint. With designers and estimators among the team, Braun’s has got all your bases covered. “Our focus is on having the best staff to be able to service the Peace River area to the best of our ability,” said Jake, adding that because most staff has worked there long enough, its feels like family. Braun’s Flooring supplies and installs everything from hardwood, laminate, ceramic tile, vinyl planking and vinyl sheet goods,

 Our skilled staff are here to help with all your flooring, window coverings and paint. From back to front; Vikki MacLean, Trudi Klassen, Malik Tansorbah Seidu, Jamie Hucker and owner Jake Braun. Missing from photo: Don Bazinet and Shanelle Pringle. to carpeting and area rugs. All of the big brand names that people will recognize are on display at their new 10,000 square foot location, at 10020 96th Avenue in Fort St. John. Braun’s Flooring was formerly located in the mall, but last May they took the plunge and moved to their own location, kind of a “control our own destiny” idea, said Jake.

Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014 • Page 21

SpeeDee “Your Office Experts” Ltd.|6149 Airport Road, Fort St. John, BC |250-785-3590

SpeeDee “Your Office Experts” SpeeDee has got you covered

into the Fort St. John business scene, and have proved themselves a force to be reckoned with. SpeeDee carries a vast range of stationary items and a healthy selection of furniture, carrying well known brands like Global Contract and Heartwood Manufacturing. Whether you’re looking to stock your paper supplies or redesign your office space, SpeeDee has got you covered, with industry professionals ready to help you with your day to day challenges.

SpeeDee Printers “Your Office Experts” began as a print shop in Prince George, and over time grew to sell all kinds of office supplies, from furniture and business machines to rubber stamps and other art materials. The company that was incorporated in 1958 by Maurice George and Associates expanded, and in 1964 a second location was added, in Terrace, B.C. SpeeDee continued to grow, and the company opened shop in Smithers, B.C., its third location. Most recently, in December 2013, SpeeDee Printers “Your Office Experts” came Page 22 • Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014

10204 Alaska Road, Fort St. John, BC |250-785-8005 |

Murray GM

Tradition of Service There aren’t many dealerships where you can settle into a café booth and enjoy coffee and a bite to eat while you get your oil changed a few feet away, but at Murray GM that’s just the thing to do. Clark Lang and his team pride themselves on putting customers first and taking care of everything, from the tires you’re riding on to the rumble in your stomach. As part of the Murray Automotive Group, Murray GM belongs to a tradition of service that dates back to 1926, when A.A. (Andy) Murray began to sell Star, Essex and Hudson cars. In 1934 he added the General Motors line. The Manitoba based business expanded, and today Murray Automotive Group consists of more than 20 dealerships, selling a combined 15,000 new and used vehicles each year. Doing things the ‘Murray way’ means carrying on that standard of excellence, where ‘Our reputation is your guarantee.” Today, Murray GM is celebrating 15 years in the community. Clark and his wife Judy originally lived in Manitoba,

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 Murray GM where “Our reputation is your guarantee. q The Murray GM Sales staff. Come down and talk with one of the staff to get you into that next vehicle.

the birthplace of Murray Automotive Group, but when the opportunity arose in 1999 to purchase a GM dealership in Fort St. John, they seized it and never looked back. “We’ve thoroughly enjoyed living in Fort St. John, we’ve got a lot of great friends here, and great customers that have been dealing with us every since I moved here,” said Clark. Murray GM offers new and used vehicle sales and has a large GM service depart-

Today, Murray GM is celebrating 15 years in the community. ment that does it all. They sell parts and accessories, and at their MGM Customs business component they sell and install lift kits, rims and tires. It’s an exciting time for staff and customers alike as new General Motors product is being released, including 2014 and 2015 trucks with a new body style. Part of what sets Murray GM apart is its long term and loyal staff, who have the best interests of the customer at heart. Neale Skauge, sales manager, has been at the dealership for over 35 years and continues to offer his expertise to the community. But it’s also that Murray GM takes community involvement seriously, and partners with different clubs and organizations to raise money for good causes. For their efforts they recently won the Community Driver Award for dealers in Northern B.C. That’s the kind of business that Murray GM is, and might be part of the reason that Clark Lang and his team are celebrating their milestone anniversary in the community this June.

Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014 • Page 23

CONGRATULATIONS RON RODGERS for achieving

2011,2012,2013 MLS® Top Commercial Realtor® as awarded by the Commercial Council of the BC Northern Real Estate Board

(based on the highest dollar value and number of units for commercial transactions sold in BCNREB)

Ron has been a long standing member of the Canadian Commercial Council of Realtors and member/director of the BC Northern Real Estate Board and BC Northern Commercial Council. “It is an exciting time to be doing business in north east BC right now. With the notoriety this area is receiving as a result of proposed projects like LNG, Site C, and the continued impact of the oil & gas resource industry, the type of clients I deal with range from local to world-wide investors and companies. I have, and will, continue to dedicate my time and resources to the commercial real estate market and look forward to what 2014 will bring .”

The BC Northern Real Estate Board (BCNREB) is nonprofit organization comprised of a membership of REALTORS® in Northern BC. BCNREB covers a large area from Queen Charlotte Islands to the Alberta border and 70 Mile House to the Yukon border,

excluding Dawson Creek, Chetwynd, and Tumbler Ridge who are part of the South Okanagan Real Estate Board.

Ron Rodgers

IT’S TIME TO INVEST IN NORTHEAST BC!!! Check out these opportunities;

Commercial Building & Land downtown core Fort St John, BC Over 6,000sf of retail & office space on 2 levels

ASKING $ 649,000 MLS® N4506640

3...Light Industrial LOTS 4.5 ACRES each Located of 100% road on the way to the proposed BC HYDRO SITE C DAM

Ideal location for your industrial shop, office, yard, trucking facility and more! Asking $769,000 each MLS® N4506687-8-9

3.6 Acre Industrial Land & Building along Alaska Highway

Over 6,400sf office/shop/warehouse multi-tenant building & living quarters Asking $1.489 Million

TRAILER & RV PARK

Ideal owner/occupied business with potential for growth. 12+ acre park, 70+ serviced pads...made up of long term residents & private rental units. Upgrades to services being phased in summer ‘14. Highway frontage between Taylor & Fort St John. Land & Business Asking $2.28 million

MLS® N4506519 A confidentiality agreement will be required prior to release of information.

Just over 1 acre commercial lot… located along 100th Street in hub of city. Asking $1.29 million

MLS® N4505472

MLS® N4506311

36.36 Acres Development Land

close to the new FSJ Regional Hospital. Invest now in the future growth of the city and services...potential for multiresidential development to offset community need Asking $1.54 Million

Cherry Lane Estates, Taylor, BC 4.76 to 6.7 Acre lots overlooking Taylor & Peace River Valley. Asking Price ranges from $149,000 to $166,000

MLS® V4022639

Now Asking

(services - power, Telus, PNG slated for summer) MLS® N220006+

$6.99 Million MLS® SOREB 144856 (BCNREB N4506324)

Court order sale Multi-Residential 1/2 Acre lot north of FSJ sports center. 146.6’ x 150’ lot zoned RM2 allows for more than your typical duplex plan!

Asking $539,000 MLS® N4505650

Call Ron at 250 785 4115 for more information or to arrange viewing of property.

FOR SALE

INDUSTRIAL MANUFACTURING COMPLEX Building: 137,000+/-sf steel frame open factory style design Land: 113.9+ acres HIGHWAY FRONTAGE POTENTIAL FOR FURTHER LAND DEVELOPMENT CALL RON for more information about this court order sale

Information is not intended to solicit properties already listed for sale, or buyers already under contract. Information is believed to be accurate but not guaranteed and should be verified.

Page 24 • Northeast News ~ Focus on Business Magazine, Summer 2014