Women in Business 2014

THE FREE PRESS Thursday, March 6, 2014

LOCAL WOMEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Women in Business A celebration of Elk Valley Business Women

Alayna Pinchak, Owner / Operator of Alayna’s Place in Sparwood, BC THE FREE PRESS ~ MARCH 2014

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, March 6, 2014

LOCAL WOMEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE

International Women’s Day March 8, 2014

Outstanding women

By Jenna Jensen

I

t has been such an honour to have the opportunity to interview and learn more about each of these six outstanding women you will read about. They are known and recognized in their community for their outstanding dedication, passion and consideration for what they do. They are examples of positive change and empowerment and strive to make their communities a better place each and every day.

While working on this project, it became quite apparent to me that the six ladies I interviewed could have easily been 60 if space was no object. I am so grateful to know so many inspirational women who make huge impacts on our communities in the Elk Valley whether it be through volunteering, or opening a business that provides a great product or service. These women shape who our children become, and are people that our children can look up to. They are stay-at-home moms, employees and entrepreneurs.

I believe women have the power to make changes for the better, while being strong influential role models for the people around them. Women have the chance to brighten lives through monumental missions, or simple things such as welcoming a new family into a community, or inspiring other women to chase their dreams into a reality.

I am thankful for all of the amazing, brilliant women in my life, personally and professionally who inspire me to be a better person, follow my dreams and help me to remember that the most important thing is to enrich the lives of others around me. These women have shaped who I have become, and will help shape the person my daughter and many other young ladies will become.

I hope you enjoy learning more about these six wonderful women, and take the opportunity to notice the women around you so freely giving time and energy to make the world a better place.

For the future of women

I

nternational Women’s Day is celebrated in movement has had an enormous influence in turning many different countries around the world. It this day of celebration into a rallying point for the is a day during which women are recognized fight for every woman’s right to participate in the for their achievements, whether they are of a national, political and economic processes. This day is also the ideal moment for local cultural, economic, or political nature. It is an and international women’s occasion to look back on advocacy groups to lobby earlier battles for rights for positive change and One of the to celebrate the courage fought by pioneers in objectives equality, and above all it and determination of is a time to prepare the ordinary women to of International future for generations of thrive as individuals and Women’s Day is women yet to be born. support their families in a multitude of ways. to better prepare In 1975, during International Women’s Year, the United Nations initiated International Women’s Day, to be celebrated every March 8. Two years later, the General Assembly recognized the role of women in the fight for peace and development.

It is essential that women be a part of lasting solutions to society’s social, economic, and political problems.

Women’s freedom, safety, participation, and leadership are central to the balance of all things and all public institutions. Let’s think this March 8 about how we can make this happen, not just at home but all around the world.

the future for generations of women yet to be born.

Since its beginnings, this event has taken on a whole new dimension, as much in developed countries as in the developing world. The feminist

Women in Business PROFILE

The Free Press Celebrating women in non-traditional occupations

By Nicole Obre As we celebrate International Women’s Day it’s important to remember how far women have come in achieving equality with men, especially in the workplace. While women have continued to shine in the traditionally female-dominated sectors, caring for, educating, and helping others, there has also been a recent rise in women taking on nontraditional occupations.

Here at The Free Press, our office is made up entirely of women. In an industry that has always been considered a ‘boy’s club’, we are proud to have seven amazing women at the helm of the community’s newspaper. There has always been an unfortunate under-representation of women in hard news, business, and politics. But things are beginning to look up.

Did you know that women premiers now lead the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Newfoundland and Labrador, as well as the territory of Nunavut? Christy Clark has been governing B.C. since March 2011, Alysson Redford is head of the government in Alberta, Kathy Dunderdale was reelected premier of Newfoundland and Labrador in October 2011, and Eva Aariak has been Nunavut’s premier since November, 2008.

Getting a little closer to home, some of our own communities are currently led by women. 2011 saw two female mayors elected in the Elk Valley: Mary Giuliano for Fernie and Lois Halko for Sparwood.

It’s no wonder why political parties understand the attraction of female leaders. They are seen as being credible and innovative. Many people believe that they will be more attentive to social issues, such as the preservation of the public health system and improvements in education.

Other less traditional occupations such as firefighting, trucking, and auto repair are increasingly practised by women. With such a high demand in B.C. for skilled tradespeople, now is the perfect time for women to consider a career in the trades. Tradeswomen of all ages are finding challenges, independence, good pay, and job satisfaction.

The Elk Valley wouldn’t be what it is today without the mining industry and women are beginning to be more prominent, whether it’s on-site in a trades position, or off-site in an office position. The College of the Rockies is currently offering a three week training program that introduces women to the many different types of careers available within the coal mining industry.

Kaitlyn Haarstad, Bonny McLardy, Tamara Hynd, Nicole Obre, Jennifer Cronin, Andrea Horton and Sara Moulton.

At the end of the day, choosing a profession is a personal choice. Every industry has its value, and every person (male or female) has their own likes and dislikes. Whether women are finding themselves in ‘traditional’ or ‘non-traditional’ jobs, the victory is that women are continuing to increase their presence in the workforce within many different industries. Hopefully one day the two categories will disappear and all industries will be equally populated with both women and men.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, March 6, 2014

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LOCAL WOMEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE International Women’s Day

SPARWOOD

Jillian Doey Volunteer

O

ccupation: Sparwood Early Childhood Development Coordinator, Business Owner and Scale House Operator at South East Disposal.

What types of volunteering have you done within the community?

I am an active member of Sparwood Search and Rescue, Frank J Mitchell Elementary School Parent Advisory Council, and I have volunteered with a variety of organizations around town, mostly with organizations that help children and/or literacy.

What project have you done that you are most passionate about?

Everything that I do I do because I am passionate about it.

I try to help with projects that will not only benefit the people in the community, but the community itself. With the Early Childhood Development (ECD) Committee, we are about to fundraise for two toddler play structures in Sparwood.

In which ways do you see a benefit to your community?

I do a lot of work with children in the early years and with that our committee hopes that we can help these children grow to their full potential. Within the ECD committee we try to get community organizations to work together, and to develop partnerships. With Search and Rescue we are community based and work as a team, alone I am only one.

What do you enjoy most about what you do and what are the challenges?

I enjoy everything that I do and getting to see a plan go into action, and see the successes that come out of that plan. I like that I have the opportunity to learn from those experiences that don’t quite go as planned.

The challenges that I have faced are just trying to communicate exactly what we are trying to offer and how this will be a benefit, but with this I am learning how to communicate with the community differently, and use all of my resources.

What are your hobbies and things you love about your community?

I love being outside and being active outside with my family.

I am more of a summer person and enjoy camping and hiking.

I love that we have a beautiful backyard into the mountains and have the opportunity to live around all the wildlife that we have in Sparwood.

What do you strive to accomplish in the next 5 years?

Women in Business

Julie Gallant

ReAlign Massage Therapy and Yoga

J

ulie Gallant is a BC Registered Massage Therapist and Yoga Teacher, located at 472 - 2nd Avenue, in beautiful Fernie, BC. She has a strong passion for assisting and educating clients on healing, rehabilitation and maintenance. Having worked in a busy chiropractic clinic, she has had the opportunity to treat a broad range of injuries, chronic problems and conditions. Her knowledge of human anatomy and the steps required for optimal function has led her to the yogic path (she is a certified 200 hour teacher). Now offering private to semi-private yoga classes focusing on beginner and sports specific yoga and rehabilitation.

Her combined expertise in massage and yoga give her and her clients a unique advantage on the path to freedom of movement and overall wellness of the mind and body.

Call Julie to speak more with her about her services.

n e m o W g CelebraitninBusiness GIFT certificate

Personally and professionally I just want to continue doing all that I can do with my family and community.

Can you explain the difference you know woman can make in their community?

There are many amazing women that contribute to this community and make this such an amazing community.

Women are capable of doing anything and as long as you have passion, then it doesn’t matter what your sex is and you can do great things.

Can you tell us anything else about yourself?

I just appreciate everything that I am able to do and have the flexibility to be able to work, and have time to spend time with my family. Also I am not able to do what I do without the great teams that I am a part of, without them we would not be able to accomplish what we want.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, March 6, 2014

LOCAL WOMEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE International Women’s Day

ELKFORD

Carmen Murray Volunteer

Occupation: Secretary, Elkford Secondary School. I just started in September, 2013.

What types of volunteering have you done within the community?

Elkford Early Childhood Development Committee (in the past), Parent Advisory Committee at Rocky Mountain Elementary School, Wildcat Grass Smash Volleyball Tournament – annually during Wildcat Days. This year will be the ninth year. Wapiti Ski Club – Secretary/Treasurer, Elk Valley Vista Condo Board Member, Citizen Advisor Committee member and Madera Ranch RV Resort Board member.

What program/project/volunteering have you done that you are most passionate about?

All of them are important as they all add value and enjoyment to Elkford and area. Wapiti Ski Club is no exception.

In which ways does it benefit/assist others and your community?

Wapiti Ski Club was built and started offering alpine skiing in Elkford 40 years ago. It is made up of dedicated, hardworking, community-minded volunteers. Without the volunteers the hill would not run. Current estimates are averaged at over 7,500 volunteer hours per season.

Wapiti offers first time employment for the youth in Elkford during the winter season, on average hiring 30 youth each year.

Wapiti offers recreational activity during the long winter months. It offers a place for youth to gather and get physical

activity. It is much more affordable then going to Fernie and it serves the alpine skiing needs of many residents of Elkford.

What do you enjoy most about it, and what are the challenges?

Wapiti offers extra fun days like Family Fun Day, Winter in the Wild activities and free lessons through Non Stop Adventures for one weekend a year, as well as one day a year for the elementary school and one day a year for the high school. It is days like this where all the hard work comes together and the kids are having a great time that it makes it all worth it. The challenges are finding enough volunteers to do the countless jobs needed to run for three and a half months of the year. It is not common to have a primarily volunteer run ski hill anymore. We are lucky.

What do you strive to accomplish in the next 5 years?

My goal in life is happiness and health for my family, myself and my community. The way I think I can accomplish this is to stay active and find a balance in life. I think it is important to be involved in your community and be a part of the process, not part of the problem. It is easy to complain about how poorly things are being done but unless you are actively trying to improve it in a proactive way it is likely you are making it worse.

Can you explain the difference you know woman can make in their community?

I am a strong believer that women have a huge amount to offer in the workforce as well as in the community. I know a lot of women who choose to primarily stay at home to raise their kids and volunteer in the community. It is rewarding and

lets you keep your skills up, network and it allows potential employers see the assets you have.

Can you tell us anything else about yourself?

My family is very important to me – the one that lives with me and my extended family.

Living in a connected and safe community is important to me.

I can tell you I won an award through Alberta Venture Magazine and it was featured in the magazine. The award was Exemplary Young Employee of the Year.

Women in Business

Lori Dvorak Overwaitea Fernie

W

hat is your job?

I was promoted to Assistant Manager in January 2014 after 24 years with Overwaitea Fernie

How did you get into it?

I started when I was in my early 20s with a young family – Overwaitea was one of the better jobs in town for a young woman What do you enjoy most about it?

I love working with people – both team members and customers

What are the challenges?

Sometimes it can be difficult to balance business decisions and interpersonal sensitivity

Do you feel there are still challenges being a woman in business?

Not at all – lots of women within our company have been promoted to senior positions

How do you find balance between work, play and family?

I’m always happy to go to work; and happy to go home. It’s important to keep work and home separate and not let one affect the other How is working in a small town different from a city?

Because I grew up in Fernie, I already had good relationships with the community. Being in a small town allows you to really get to know your customers.

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, March 6, 2014

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LOCAL WOMEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE International Women’s Day

FERNIE

Dawn Deydey

Volunteer - Beyond Recycling Program Coordinator for Wildsight Owner of Entelechy Design

W

hat types of volunteering have you done within the community?

Much of my volunteering has been as the Wildsight Elk Valley branch’s Community Program Coordinator, in which I've played a role in creating the Community EcoGarden, Little Sprouts, AppleShare, Seed Swaps, Growing with Gardens, Keeping Food Real workshops, Fernie Earth Day celebrations, Fernie Time Exchange, Trashy but Flashy Fashion Show, Green Drinks, Fernie Ride Board, Advocates for Local Living, Mug Club, Think Tank Cinema, and Think Local First. Outside of that role, I've also been involved with creating the Wednesday Night Socials, Community Dollars and the Fernie Children’s Festival. None of these amazing projects would have happened if it was just me. So many other amazing volunteers in our community played key roles to bring these projects to life.

What project have you done that you are most passionate about and in which ways does it benefit your community?

The Community EcoGarden just celebrated its tenth anniversary. It's amazing to think it's been part of my life for the last decade. That definitely tops the list! Community gardens serve a diverse group of people and get the community outside to connect around growing food. The Community EcoGarden in Fernie helps our community take steps towards

food security and has created a beautiful green space for our community to use.

What do you enjoy most about it, and what are the challenges?

One of the best parts of the EcoGarden is the EcoGarden Advisory Committee. This core group of committed volunteers has done such amazing things to grow and expand the EcoGarden. Another great part is working with the school groups and kids camps that we run.

Harvesting carrots is like a magic act to kids. I love that!

Challenges include overall maintenance of the hoses and garden beds. A big challenge is also getting volunteers out to help care for the garden.

What do you strive to accomplish in the next 5 years?

Volunteer less.

What are you hobbies, and things you love about your community?

I play for Fernie's Avalanche City Roller Girls. It is the most

fun possible. I highly recommend coming out to check it out, we have four games in Fernie this year and one in Sparwood.

Can you explain the difference you know woman can make in their community?

We all have the power to make a difference and create the community we want to live in. Things may take longer than you thought, or turn out differently that how you originally planned, but that's okay. Even in failure there are seeds of success, sometimes things can turn out better than you even planned. When we follow what we are passionate about and get involved, you and your community benefit. When we connect with others in our community who are passionate about similar things, magic can happen.

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Fernie

CHAMBER “Companies that have women on their boards OF COMMERCE generate value to their corporations by broadening market vision, enhancing board dynamics, inspiring female stockholders and improving corporate reputation” Female entrepreneurship has already played and continues to play an important role in modernising societies and changing public attitudes towards women.

This is a great time to be a Canadian woman in business.

More Canadian women are self-employed than ever before and BC has the highest percentage of firms that are half-owned by women.

There are a great number of resources out there specifically aimed to support women in business – call the Chamber today 250 423 6868 for more information

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, March 6, 2014

LOCAL WOMEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE Women in Business

FERNIE FEATURE

Monique Mattersdorfer ET Hair Salon

W

hen was your business established?

I purchased the business in 1997, but it has been around for about 30 plus years, if not more.

I am very lucky to have taken over a well established business.

What is your job?

I am a stylist and owner/operator. I really just do a bit of everything.

How did you get into it?

I always wanted to be a hairstylist. I had a passion for it and always loved it. I graduated from high school, went to hair school, then Lori Mitchell the previous owner gave me a job here at the salon and I have been here every since.

What do you enjoy most about it?

My clients for sure. I have amazing clients that are like family. Some we see every week. We are lucky here at ET because our great clients make our job way easier and so enjoyable.

Do you feel there are still challenges being a woman in business?

For me, now that I have been doing it so long, not really. But as a women you really have to stand up for yourself and be frank.

How do you continue to evolve your business?

We evolve “It depends on what by doing business you are in. updates, going to You have to be there hair shows, learning more and keeping up with the and be dedicated, latest trends. We go to shows and classes put the time in.” whenever we can.

What are the challenges?

As a stylist we don’t really have many challenges. This business is pretty good and the shop runs pretty easy, but making sure I have enough staff has been a challenge as we hate turning customers away. I have an amazing staff now that really make things run smooth and do an amazing job.

Do you plan to stay in this role?

I think so, maybe not forever but for a little while longer.

What are your hobbies?

I go to the gym and do spin classes. Just basic Fernie family stuff.

How do you find balance between work, play and family?

It is difficult sometimes, but I have a supportive family. My husband is great and I have both sets of parents here, so I am lucky. My husband Darcy is really great and does the upkeep

Women in Business

Renee-Lynn Brailsford Painting by Renee-Lynn & Crew

W

hen was your business established?

2006, but I have been painting pretty much all my life.

What is your job?

Painter contractor, commercial and residential (with a big brush).

How did you get into it?

I am a fourth-generation painter; my grandfathers were all painters and artists. I believe it’s in my blood and now both my children, Jocelyn and Derek are painters; I love passing on my passion to the crew that work for me as well.

What do you enjoy most about it?

I enjoy the pure satisfaction of the change that paint transforms a place. Painting is the least expensive way to “change-up” your home/office/life.

What are the challenges?

The most challenging part of my job is getting the job done within the project estimate and time.

Deadlines are hard to beat sometimes when you have to wait for paint to dry!

Do you feel there are still challenges being a woman in business?

Absolutely yes, especially working in the trades industry where it is mostly male dominant. I have gained the respect through the years with contractors to know that I can do the job with greater attention to detail.

How do you continue to evolve your business?

I am taking on larger commercial contracts, having a greater challenge to manage more than one crew at a time during the short summers we have in the Elk Valley.

Do you plan to stay in this role?

I do plan to do more of the management part of the company and have the crew pick up the brush more than myself. I am training my son to take responsibility of his own crew to free up my time.

What are your hobbies?

I enjoy all outdoor activities, especially walking my 14 year old Alaskan Malamute Husky, Neeko every day.

How do you find balance between work, play and family?

Being my own boss gives me the greatest flexible opportunities to balance time for playing and family as most days I really like my boss!

Do you have advice for women wanting to start their own business?

Just do it! Take as many business accounting/management courses that you can to help you understand the aspects of operating a successful business and believe in yourself with confidence.

How is working in a small town different from a city?

I totally enjoy working in the small town of Fernie for the convenience of time, however, I have worked all over the Elk Valley; the saying “have paint brush - will travel” has taken my daughter and myself while we traveled South East Asia to volunteer painting in Thailand.

250-278-0304 • Fernie • paintingbyrenee@gmail.com www.paintingbyrenee.com

here and it’s really nice to have family here to help.

Do you have advice for women wanting to start their own business?

It depends on what business you are in. You have to be there and be dedicated, put the time in. I have worked really hard, finding the right staff is also key. Also, be consistent on your hours.

How is working in a small town different from a city?

I never have worked in a city. Here in Fernie I find people go out of town to shop and look for different products, not even knowing I may have the same product here, so that may be a difference.

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LOCAL WOMEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE Women in Business

SPARWOOD FEATURE

Amy Cardozo Crumbs Cakery

W

hen was your business established?

Crumbs was established in 2011 and officially open for public orders on March 15, 2012.

What is your job?

I have a few things going on…

I am the owner and operator of Crumbs Cakery. I design, bake and decorate custom wedding, birthday and special occasion cakes and cupcakes. I am a paramedic for B.C. Ambulance. I am also currently in school doing courses to obtain a higher license to provide a higher level of care in the Valley.

I own and operate Hooked on You. I make custom crochet creations such as hats, baby booties, infinity scarves, hooded cowls, mittens and more and I am the founder and president of the Sparwood Farmer’s Market Society.

How did you get into it?

I have been baking since I was a little girl. I love watching the chemical reactions of batters and doughs turn into something so pretty and delicious. When I got pregnant with my daughter in 2009, I craved cake constantly.

I just had to have cake all the time. That’s when I decided to try my hand at fondant and gum paste decorating. I wanted to be able to make my baby girl a beautiful princess castle

cake for her first birthday. I started practicing and I fell in love with the craft. I got many compliments - friends and family told me I should sell my stuff and make some extra cash.

I decided to start a Facebook page to pass word around and see how it went. The public response was humbling, to say the least.

What do you enjoy most about it?

Being in the kitchen making cakes really gave me a way to express myself and get back in touch with my creative side. This journey became a part of finding myself and the true self I lost years ago.

What are the challenges?

Keeping my website and bookwork up to date are difficult between everything else that I do. I end up having to set aside an entire day to spend especially on those things. I can’t justify the cost of out-sourcing at this point when I have the college education to do these things myself.

Do you feel there are still challenges being a woman in business?

Not at all. Being a woman in business has become ‘normal’ in today’s day and age as far as I’m concerned - especially in my line of work.

How do you continue to evolve your business?

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I am always challenging myself and trying new techniques to keep up with the trends. I keep up on many social media sites to keep an eye on what’s new and upcoming. I also like to offer new products to keep things fun and interesting - both for myself and my customers.

Do you plan to stay in this role?

You bet! I’m in this for the long haul. Like I said earlier, making cakes is how I express myself and stay in touch with my creative side. It’s a really good fit with my career as a paramedic so I don’t see anything changing any time soon.

How do you find balance between work, play and family?

Sometimes it can be difficult but because I run my own business, I have the luxury of choosing when I work and when I play.

Ambulance fits so well because it is based on availability. Essentially, I make my own schedule and choose when I want to work and when I want days off. I always make sure to make time for me, to do something to recharge my batteries. That’s most important.

If I’m not energized and healthy in both mind and body, what good am I to my children, family, friends, patients or customers?

Do you have advice for women wanting to

start their own business?

Don’t sit around and think about. Make a plan and get the ball rolling. You’re going to run into obstacles but that’s the most rewarding part. I found the biggest obstacles always seem to come right before the biggest rewards. If that’s not motivation to keep going, I don’t know what is. Moral of the story: don’t give up no matter how hard it seems. It will happen if you persevere.

How is working in a small town different from a city?

I can’t say from personal experience as I’ve only run my business and worked as a paramedic here in Sparwood.

Nina Sran

Fernie Pizza & Pasta After relocating to Fernie from Vancouver eight years ago, Nina opened the valley’s newest pizza shop in October 2013.

Since then, she has been appreciating the support of the community as she balances her family life with her new business.

“It’s a small town and everyone is very friendly; word travels fast and you really get to know your clients,” says Sran.

“Finding balance when you work long hours can be a challenge, but I think it’s something that everyone understands.”

Sran is full of encouragement for other women who are considering opening their own business and believes that hard work will overcome any challenges along the way.

“Just be proud, have conf idence and go for it!”

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THE FREE PRESS Thursday, March 6, 2014

LOCAL WOMEN MAKING A DIFFERENCE Women in Business

ELKFORD FEATURE

Tracey Farina

FarinaBella Massage & Spa When was your business established?

It was established in June 2012 after relocating to Elkford from Kitimat with my husband who was offered a position with Fording River What is your job?

I work as a massage therapist, not an RMT (Registered Massage Therapy). I also, along with my daughter-in-law Jolene Farina, do some of our spa treatments as well.

How did you get into it?

Health and wellness and beauty has always been a passion of mine, having a balance in your life where these elements are part of it is crucial to a full happy healthy life. I had been managing a health food store and we had a resident massage therapist. I was always amazed at how people looked and felt so much better after a massage treatment. I started to look into how I could become part of this world of massage therapy. Living in a remote, off the beaten path part of British Columbia made it extremely difficult to go to school, but with a supportive husband and family I was able to do a combination of school, one on one instruction, online, and workshop courses to complete my hours and schooling. Having many willing family and friends to practice on for free was a huge help; everyone wants a free massage. Since then I have attended many classes workshops and more online courses to always keep up to date with all the new and improved modalities that are offered, which in turn I can share with my clients.

What do you enjoy most about it?

I’d have to say the best part of my work is that I am always learning. The body is magnificent, and I feel blessed and

privilege to be able to work on people and see how massage therapy can change a person’s life.

What are the challenges?

I think the challenges are such that everyone is in a rush.

People find it hard to take time to replenish their bodies until they are hurting. Prevention is key to healthy balanced living but it is hard to convince a lot of people of that.

Do you think there are still challenges being a women in business?

Without sounding biased, I think working women in general have a challenge, whether it is their own business or working for an employer. They are the balance in the home and therefore it’s a challenge to keep it all going, and going well! But I also think this is why women in business are so successful. They can handle a multitude of tasks at one time while still challenging themselves to do better, encouraging others along the way to do the same, and continuing to create and hold a happy health home for herself and her family.

How do you find balance between work, play and family?

Balancing work, family and playtime can be a challenge for sure. I sometimes find myself folding towels at 11 at night and dreaming about what else Jolene and I can come up with to share with our clients. Thanks to my husband who is a huge help and support, he helps me to take a break, watch TV, and chill out as he puts it! Being with loved ones always puts the importance back into life and makes you realize the blessings you have around you.

Do you have advice for women wanting to start their own business?

My advice to women who are thinking about going into

business would be to make sure you have a solid support network, whether it be financial or physical, like family help, and then go for it. Yes, it is a challenge.

Yes you will have late nights. Yes you’ll wonder some days why.

But at the end of the day, you can sit back and look at what you have accomplished not only for yourself but for your family and the community around you. It’s a great feeling to know that you are providing a service that will help people in your community and that they no longer have to go out of town for. Also I would say make sure you do your best to support the businesses around you. Every little bit helps and makes a sustainable business environment in your community.

How is working in a small town different from a city?

I prefer working in a smaller community as opposed to a city, however small communites have their challenges, mostly because of volume. Many small community services have some of the best education, the best products and are usually the same or less in price, and are more likely to have better service as they have more time to provide a one on one experience for the client.

Women in Business

Ann Zweerink Extra Foods

H

ello! For those who don’t know me, my name is Ann Zweerink and I am the current owner/operator of the Extra Foods in Fernie.

I started my retail journey with Loblaws 23 years ago. Within those 23 years, I have worked in three stores and have held a variety of positions. I was first hired on as a cashier and from there took on any and all roles that came my way. I also held positions in the cash office, deli, bakery, grocery supervisor, assistant store manager, just to name a few.

My journey changed when I decided to take the store manager position in Fernie and my ever-supportive husband quit his job so I could pursue mine. We relocated to Fernie in January 2003. The Extra Foods opened on March 18 of that year. I was then offered the position of owner/ operator in April 2006 and I accepted the position with honour.

I very much value the role I have within the company today. Although the position I currently hold provides many challenges, I look forward to coming to work and leading my team to provide the community of Fernie with a clean, well-stocked and friendly place to shop.

I welcome any and all feedback; a compliment, a complaint, a donation request or a product request. I look forward to hearing from you.

Nothing makes my day better than being on the floor engaging with the customers and my staff.

Store Hours Monday to Sunday, 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM

DRUGStore Pharmacy™ Hours Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Saturday, 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Sunday, 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Extra Foods #8578 • 1792 9th Avenue • Fernie B.C. V0B 1M0 • Phone: (250) 423 7387 • Pharmacy: (250) 423 3264