Business
Matters Vol. 5 Issue 5
www.victoriachamber.ca #100-852 Fort Street, Victoria BC V8W 1H8
September/October 2009
the
torch starts
HERE Publications Mail Poste-Publications
40005319 The first Coca-Cola Torchbearer, Patricia Moreno
ABOUT BUSINESS MATTERS Business Matters is the news magazine of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce. It is published six times per year and distributed free-of-charge to members of the GVCC.
contents
september/october 2009 I vol. 5 issue 5
cover 6
Business Matters’ content is copyrighted: Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, Victoria, B.C., Canada. To advertise in Business Matters Contact: GVCC Account Representatives (250) 383-7191 chamber@gvcc.org
The Torch Starts Here
feature article 18
The Business of Heritage
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also inside 14
2009 Business Services Show
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Why Hire a Camosun Co-op Student?
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Board Election Schedule
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in every issue 4
Messages from the Chair and CEO
5
Member News
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18
Events Calendar
16
Prodigy Group
17
Greater Victoria Development Agency
24
New Members
26
Policy Moves
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Ask an Expert
The Chamber accepts no responsibility for unsolicited submissions. The business profiles, and the views and opinions expressed by advertisers in this publication are not necessarily those of the Chamber.
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Member Letters: 200 words Ask an Expert: 300 words (include high resolution photo and position title) Member News: Standard one page media release Please put “Member Letters”, “Ask an Expert”, or “Member News” in the subject line of your email.
messages
John Juricic Chair
Bruce Carter CEO
This summer has been one packed full of
News of the economy has absorbed a good
activity in the business community. Whether it is dealing with the changing markets for so many of our businesses in the current economy or speculating as to the changes in operations once the HST is introduced next year, there has been a lot going on. At the time of writing, we as a region are still awaiting announcements from the federal government regarding infrastructure investments in our region. We hope to see those projects announced soon and that the projects selected for funding will have a significant economic impact in the region. As a Chamber, we are most supportive of projects that offer immediate household sustaining jobs for our workers in the construction sector and economic benefit in the long run by creating the essential infrastructure foundations needed for business growth and development. One thing that I am pleased that the Chamber is involved in is the planning to launch the Olympic Torch Relay in our region. This event is something on which we can focus so much of our positive business energy and community pride. Not only will this event draw many people in our region into the community and be good for business, more importantly, it will draw millions of eyes to view our incredible region as people from around the world watch the Torch Relay begin. It is truly a spectacular event for our community and I am thrilled that the Chamber was represented on the planning committee. If you have not yet received your election information, you will receive it shortly. Nominations are open for board candidates up to September 24th. From my experience, I can tell you that serving on the board of the Chamber is a great way to contribute to the health and vibrancy of our business community. I would encourage you to consider that opportunity for yourself or nominate another member who you believe is able to contribute. Creating a better business community is up to all of us and we welcome your interest.
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part of business conversation over the last number of months, and the summer has been no different. We have heard changing reports from the federal government and different news from the Bank of Canada regarding how quickly we can expect to recover from the recession. Business is somewhat optimistic – and wary at the same time. We look forward to hosting both Minister Flaherty, federal finance minister, and Mark Carney, Governor of the Bank of Canada at events in September to hear more about our economic outlook. Provincially, the announcement about the introduction of a harmonized sales tax (HST) took the Chamber and the rest of the business community by surprise. We held an information session in partnership with the Downtown Victoria Business Association for our collective members in late August to hear from our members about their concerns and to hear from tax experts on what business can anticipate moving forward. We will continue to look at how the potential effects of the HST will impact on our region’s major industries. It is important for us to act in the best interests of our business members and provide as much up to date information as we can as we follow this issue in the coming months. While the economy and the tax environment seem to have consumed every coffee conversation, business goes on. October 21st marks our second annual Business Services Show, providing you a great opportunity to market to your target audience at the only complete business show in Greater Victoria. Visit our website for more details and be sure to reserve your place early.
Business Matters
member news
Steve Walker-Duncan, General Manager/ Executive Chef of the Ambrosia Conference & Event Centre is pleased to introduce Anthony Sanna as Sales & Marketing Manager. Sanna brings to Ambrosia over 15 years of hospitality experience that includes the Harbour Towers Hotel in Victoria, the Hyatt Regency Hotel Vancouver, and the Vancouver Trade & Convention Centre. His move to the Ambrosia CEC has introduced an innovative Social Media Marketing plan which includes Twitter accounts for himself and for Chef Walker-Duncan. On Twitter @AmbrosiaCentre and @chefswd. The Ambrosia Conference & Event Centre is available for a variety of special events such as corporate meetings/ seminars, trade shows, gala parties, Christmas parties and more. Ambrosia CEC can easily cater your event, on or off site. For more details please visit www.ambrosiacentre.com Island Savings Credit Union has launched two new electronic services to enable members to transfer funds online: INTERAC Email Money Transfer and “Me to Me.”
financial institutions. “Me to Me” is another first for this credit union, which launched “Save the Change” earlier this year. Island Savings was recognized three times at the Central 1 Innovation Awards in 2008, winning awards in both the Innovative Products and Innovative Services categories. More information is available on-line at www.ISCU.com or at one of the Island’s 14 branches. The Mary Winspear Centre is offering you a seat in the theatre! With this new fundraising event, you can purchase “Your seat” and preserve your family or business legacy with a commemorative plaque permanently installed on a seat in the Charlie White Theatre. The funds raised will go to assist with the on-going technological needs of the Charlie White Theatre and support the growth of arts and cultural events in the community.
Pink Sugar Cupcakery, owned by Adrienne Jopp, has expanded to a new location at 773 Fort Street. Dirk Ryneveld has joined McConnan, Bion O’Connor & Peterson Lawyers as an associate counsel.
For more information call 250-656-0275 or go to www.marywinspear.ca
INTERAC Email Money Transfer allows members to securely send funds to anyone with an email address and a Canadian deposit account. The sender does not need to know the recipient’s institution or account information, and no account information is on the Internet at any time.
Bullock & Kirstein Photography have just launched a commercial photography division! Providing creative image solutions for business photography needs is Bullock & Kirstein’s specialty. They have been serving Victoria’s business community for over 5 years and some of their clients include A-Vancouver Island, Investors Group, the Victoria SPCA & IBM Business Solutions.
The “Me to Me” service allows members to link their accounts at the credit union with accounts at other
Anna Bullock & Rebecca Kirstein, co-owners of Bullock & Kirstein Photography, have been leading the
Business Matters
way with unique, cutting edge wedding and portrait photography in Victoria for over 10 years. The team focuses on making the individual, the product or service stand out from the competition. www.b-kstudios.com
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Business Matters
the
torch starts
HERE Written by: Alice Bacon
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O
n October 30, 2009, the eyes of the world will be on Greater Victoria, as our community hosts the launch of the nationwide Olympic Torch Relay for the 2010 Winter Games. The flame will be lit by the rays of the sun in Olympia, and travel to Victoria directly from Athens, Greece. On its first two days of the relay, the Olympic flame will chart a course through virtually every municipality in the Capital Region. “45,000 kilometres, over 1000 cities, and over 100 days make up the Olympic Torch Relay, but there is only one starting point,” noted Alan Lowe, chair of the Greater Victoria Spirit Committee. “Greater Victoria has been preparing for our role in the 2010 Games for some time, and today we learned what a key role we have.” While this announcement, made on November 19, 2008, came as a wonderful surprise for most people in Victoria, it marked an important milestone in the efforts that the Greater Victoria Spirit Committee Society, the City of Victoria and various regional partners had been working towards for well over a year.
BACKGROUND The City of Victoria was first invited to a meeting with representatives from the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) in July 2008. Victoria was officially invited to host a Community Celebration for the Olympic Torch Relay; however the discussion quickly turned to the possibility that Victoria could have a larger role to play in the national event, and the possibility of Victoria being the starting point for the national relay was raised. Alan Lowe, Victoria city Mayor at the time, and chair of the Greater Victoria Spirit Committee, felt that this was an opportunity that the entire region could embrace and committed to putting the energy of the Spirit Committee and the city behind the project.
and Victoria resident Roger Skillings and VANOC Director of Operations Dan Doyle, also a Victoria resident, were champions of the idea from the beginning, and helped to shepherd the initial effort, which involved a meeting with select representatives from throughout the region to ‘take the temperature’ of the community to host the event. In September the Spirit Committee submitted a proposal package to the VANOC Board of Directors for consideration. The basis of the proposal was Victoria’s proven track record for hosting worldclass events as well as its unique character: “A sparkling gem on the West Coast of Canada, where the flame of the Olympic Torch is reflected in the water of the Pacific Ocean, Greater Victoria is an ideal community in which to host the launch of the Olympic Torch Relay. The Spirit Committee and the Task Force are committed to engaging the entire region, reaching as many members of our community as possible on the route, and showcasing the unique character of our communities, from the rustic fishing village and marine culture of Sooke, to the waterside charm of character
Olympic ambassador
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Business Matters
The Olympic flame represents unity, oneness of purpose, creativity and excellence homes along Oak Bay’s waterfront. The backbone of all of this is, of course, the people - the unique, dedicated people of our community, working together as volunteers, cheering on the torch and celebrating. For a select group of lucky citizens, there will be the most unforgettable experience of all - the honour of bearing the torch - whether it be on foot, in a kayak or canoe or even riding a skateboard, choices which reflect the diversity and appeal of our community.” Victoria was kept on pins and needles for approximately eight weeks, waiting and hoping to learn the news of the decision. “We were 99% sure of what their decision would be,” recalls Lowe, “but we got that final confirmation at the same time as the rest of the world. It was an exciting day!”
GETTING BUSY After the formal announcement was made, the real work began. The volunteer Olympic Torch Relay Task Force was assembled and the marathon planning meetings got underway. The committee is responsible for coordinating all the local content for the evening celebration, as well as liaising on media relations and communications, local fundraising, community and regional initiatives, security and logistics. Many aspects are managed through the City of Victoria’s special events division, with local event producer Alice Bacon seconded to the Spirit Committee to manage the process, act as a local liaison to VANOC’s Torch Relay team and help coordinate efforts within the City and throughout the region. “Considering the scope and magnitude of this event, we are making great progress in ensuring that this is an event that will be celebrated by the entire region, each community in its own way throughout the relay and together as one community on the evening of October 30th,” says Bacon. “It is a tremendous opportunity for everyone in Greater Victoria to get together and celebrate our spirit, our local talent, our natural beauty, our history and culture. The Olympic flame represents unity, oneness of purpose, creativity and excellence, and as a community, we’re all working hard to put a unique local slant on it in a way that will make us all proud.”
Courtesy of Skade Canada: Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir
CELEBRATING OUR COMMUNITY Local event producers TNT Productions were contracted to manage the technical and artistic aspects of the large scale Celebration. TNT’s proposal impressed the committee, particularly for its commitment to showcase the very best talent from our region, but in world-class style.
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Olympic Torchbearers, Caleb Taylor & Patricia Moreno
Francophone performers, local musicians and choirs, Set against the backdrop of the historic Legislative “Glowing Hearts” is an ensemble creation with state-ofbuildings, the Fairmont Empress and Victoria’s stunning the-art multimedia components, huge symphonic sound, Inner Harbour, the Olympic Torch Celebration will feature large-scale choreography, oversized a kaleidoscope of colour, energy giant puppets and much more. and light in a multicultural, Hosting the launch of props, “Oh Canada” will honour the return multidisciplinary spectacle. the Olympic Torch Relay of the torch to light the cauldron, and The Olympic Torch Relay “Afterglow”, the Celebration Finale, Celebration will feature ensemble will be a boon to the is an exciting, high energy act that performances featuring many of integrates a multi-media and pyrotechnic (tourism) industry at a Victoria’s best-known musicians, display with cross-cultural performers performers and artists, acrobatics normally slow period. and local musical stars. Thousands of and dance as well as involvement handheld torchieres, state-of-the-art glow by local luminaries, athletes and products and a thrilling pyrotechnics display will mirror the celebrities. symbolism of the flame, while adding to the beauty and The local contributions to the Celebration will be broken spectacle of this momentous event. into four components. “The Welcome” is a celebration of diversity featuring First Nations drummers and dancers,
Dollars and Sense
The goal is to promote not only the Olympic Torch Relay itself, but also the Capital Regional District and its communities. In staging the first day of the relay, the eyes of the world will be on our region. International travel media have already shown a great deal of interest in the event, and Tourism Victoria believes that hosting the launch of the Olympic Torch Relay will be a boon to the industry at a normally slow period. The economic impact on the community will be significant. The cost of hosting the Community Celebration is the responsibility of each community. The City of Victoria took a leadership role early on in supporting the event, with Mayor Dean Fortin and Victoria city council approving a contribution of $150,000 as well as in-kind city services and staff support. Funding requests were made to all regional municipalities, with Saanich, Esquimalt, Oak
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Bay and North Saanich making contributions. Diane Lloyd, volunteer Fundraising Chair (and Director of Development at the Royal BC Museum) created an innovative VIP Program to recognize local individuals and businesses who help contribute to the cost of staging the community celebration that fits within VANOC’s guidelines while acknowledging those who see the value in supporting the initiative.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Engaging the community is a high priority for organizers. Regular conference calls are organized to engage the region in a coordinated effort. Kelly Mann, co-chair of the Liaison Committee on the Task Force, brings his expertise as Executive Director of the BC Games Society to help ensure the larger community is informed, involved and excited. From Sooke to Sidney, communities are busy planning their own activities and developing ways of engaging the population in the celebration and fun. Pancake breakfasts, high school band performances, street banners, window displays, school art contests, team jerseys, athlete homecoming events and even an “Olympic Mile” are all in the works. The Greater Victoria Spirit Committee has developed support material, entitled “Setting the Stage”, for use by community groups, municipalities, schools, businesses and clubs, which offers ideas that everyone can use to mark this momentous occasion. Anyone interested in obtaining a copy or gaining more information can visit the society’s website at www.victoriaspirit.ca
International Airport on October 30th, and following a morning arrival ceremony in downtown Victoria where the cauldron and first torch will be lit, the Olympic Torch Relay will make its way through Victoria, Esquimalt, View Royal, Sidney, North Saanich, Central Saanich, Saanich and Oak Bay, returning to Victoria for the evening Celebration. On Day Two, October 31st, the torch begins its day in Sooke and will visit Metchosin, Colwood and Langford, before the procession makes its way up-Island for a noon celebration in Duncan and evening event in Nanaimo. Another item attracting keen interest is who will carry the torch in Victoria, and how torchbearers are selected. RBC and Coca Cola – both Olympic Torch Relay presenting partners - have held web contests for the chance to carry the torch, with RBC’s criteria on making Canada a better place to live, and Coke’s criteria based on a pledge for active living. RBC announced
their first selection locally in June, with Oak Bay’s Jeffrey Dubney being the lucky person chosen, with the remaining names released in late summer. The Spirit Committee had the opportunity to nominate the final torch bearer of the opening Day. For now the committee is keeping their identity under wraps – expect a public announcement on this and other exciting details about the community celebration events early in the fall. For more information on Victoria’s role in the Olympic Torch Relay, ways to participate or support the event, or on the Greater Victoria Spirit Committee society, please visit www.victoriaspirit.ca or call 250.361.0546. Article Contributor: Alice Bacon is a professional events producer who has always been attracted to things that light up: she was producer of Luminara Victoria for its first eight years and is excited to be involved in celebrating the Olympic Torch in Victoria.
The Olympic Torch Celebration will feature a kaleidoscope of colour, energy and light in a multicultural, multidisciplinary spectacle.
CARRYING THE FLAME Ultimately, the Olympic Torch Relay is all about carrying the flame, and there has been much speculation about the exact route the torch will take... that speculation will continue a bit longer yet. VANOC intends to reveal the exact route publicly several weeks prior to the start date. The Olympic Torch will travel through almost every municipality in the Capital Region in its first two days. The flame, in its travelling ‘safety lantern’, will touch down at Victoria
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events calendar
September 2009 Monday
Tuesday
Notes:
1
CEO Coffee Hour
A one hour policy discussion with Chamber CEO Bruce Carter The Victoria Foundation #109-645 Fort St. 8:30-9:30 am Members only please
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Wednesday Provincial Finance Minister
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Featuring Honourable Colin Hansen 11:30am-1:30pm Hotel Grand Pacific 463 Belleville St.
Business Education Series
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UT
Sponsored by Sector Learning Solutions Inc. Effective Social Media for your Small Business 11:45am-1:00pm Chamber office
D OL
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Thursday 3 10
Friday 4
Federal Finance Minister
Featuring Honourable Jim Flaherty 11:30am-1:30pm Inn at Laurel Point Terrace Ballroom 680 10 Montreal St.
Prodigy Group Mingle
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5:30-7:30pm Canoe BrewPub Marina & Restaurant 450 Swift St.
Business Mixer
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Hosted by Hotel Rialto 5:00-7:00pm 653 Pandora Ave.
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Business Education Series
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Sponsored by Sector Learning Solutions Inc. Using Webinars to Attract New Clients...and Keep Them! 11:45am-1:00pm Chamber office
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Governor of the Bank of Canada
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Notes:
Featuring Mr. Mark Carney 11:30am-1:30pm The Fairmont Empress Crystal Ballroom 721 Government St.
For more information or to register, visit www.victoriachamber.ca
Business Education Series • September 9 Paul Holmes and Catherine Novak IdeaZone.ca
Effective Social Media for your Small Business - Sold Out You've heard about FaceBook, Twitter and LinkedIn. You are bombarded daily with news stories about how Social Media is changing the way people use the Internet. Your customers are spending more time than ever using these new tools. Are you connecting with them?
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Business Education Series • September 23 Gerry Brimacombe
Sector Learning Solutions Inc. Using Webinars to Attract New Clients...and Keep Them! Growing your business requires a steady supply of new clients and the retention of existing business. Online webinars can help you accomplish both goals in a low cost, high impact environment. In this interactive workshop, learn how to use online Webinars to introduce yourself, your company and your services to new clients and keep them connected to you.
Business Matters
October 2009 Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
See pages 14 and 15 for information about our upcoming
Notes:
Business Services Show. Sun 5 4
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Canadian Chamber AGM
Note:
CEO Coffee Hour date changed!
CEO Coffee
Hosted by: Placement Group Hour Main Fl - 1124 Fort St. 8:30-9:30 am Members only please
Sponsored by Sector Series Learning Solutions Inc. Times Colonist Media Tour 14 11:30am-1:30pm Times Colonist 2621 Douglas St.
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1
Friday 2
Canadian Chamber Executive Conference Victoria Conference Centre
Business Education
Victoria Conference Centre 720 Douglas St.
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Thursday
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Prodigy Group Mingle
Sat 3
720 Douglas St.
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5:30-7:30pm Canoe BrewPub Marina & Restaurant 450 Swift St.
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21 Business Services Show
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Don’t miss out! Buy your booth today! 12:00-7:00pm 21 Garden Crystal 713 Douglas St.
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Business Mixer
5:00-7:00pm Crystal Garden 713 Douglas St.
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Business Education Series
Sponsored by Sector Learning Solutions Inc. Tips and Tricks for Effective Negotiations 11:45am-1:00pm Chamber office
For more information or to register, visit www.victoriachamber.ca
Business Education Series • October 7 Times Colonist Media Tour
Back by popular demand! Join us for a tour of the Times Colonist and a quick chat with Darron Kloster, Business Editor, on what he looks for in a great business story! Saskia Elias - Online and Working.com Sales Specialist at the Times Colonist will also provide suggestions on how to word your career and help wanted ads for optimal results. Working with the media can benefit your business!
Business Matters
Business Education Series • October 28 Maureen A. Sullivan NECI
Tips and Tricks for Effective Negotiations During this session, we will explore the key elements of any successful negotiation process including: the preparation stage, identifying and assessing options, dealing with the people issues, and development of a BATNA (Best Alternative to a Negotiated Agreement). You will learn tips and tricks for using various negotiation styles and how each has its place at the table.
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business services sh w
PRESENTED BY:
get what your business needs
BUY YOUR BOOTH TODAY! www.victoriachamber.ca
ABOUT
SHOW INFORMATION Date: October 21, 2009 Location: Crystal Garden 713 Douglas St.
• Only complete business show in Greater Victoria • Access to over 90 exhibitors from the business community • Over 600 business people attended last year • Local and regional business awareness through high profile location and exposure
OCTOBER 21, 2009
Tradeshow Hours: 12 p.m. — 7 p.m. Set-up: October 21, 9 a.m. — 11:30 a.m. Networking Reception Hours: 5 p.m. — 7 p.m.
•
CRYSTAL GARDEN
SPECIAL INVITATION TO THE
BUSINESS COMMUNITY Free Admission • Win Great Prizes!
Don’t miss out. Come check out these exhibitors: ’A’ Vancouver Island
Monk Office
Camosun College - Co-operative Education
NAI Commercial (Victoria) Inc.
CFB Esquimalt - Base Commander
Notaries on Douglas
Coast Capital Savings Credit Union
Pacific Coastal Airlines
Commissionaires Victoria, the Islands & Yukon Communication Connection Inc.
Rogers Broadcasting - 103.1 Jack FM & The Ocean FM 98.5
Douglas Magazine
Ross Place Retirement Resort
EmployMeBC
Royal Roads University
Enterprise Project Management Ltd.
Service Canada
Express Employment Professionals
Stewart Monumental Works
First Memorial Funeral Services
TD Merchant Services
Investors Group - Chatterton
The Lookout Newspaper
Island Blue Print Co. Ltd.
Times Colonist
Island Displays
Trailblazer Business Adventure
Jack Insurance & Financial Services Janor Solutions Inc.
Truffles Catering
Kabuki Kabs
Victoria Conference Centre
Kenmore Air
WorkSafeBC
Liesch Office Interiors
WorkSource, Business Victoria
Master Care Janitorial and Facility Services
WeDoHosting.com Inc.
Maximum Express
www.coffeeguy.org
Vancouver Island University - MBA Internship
MD Esthetics Laser Centre Note: The above is a list of exhibitors who have registered prior to August 17, 2009. Check www.victoriachamber.ca for exhibitors who have registered after this date.
• 713 DOUGLAS STREET
• GET WHAT YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS
GET BACK INTO THE BUSINESS MINDSET WITH MEMBER MENTORSHIP
David Vinnels Chair As we all get back to work after a glorious summer, I invite you to join us again at the Canoe Club for our September and October mingles. Get business back to the basics; come improve your 60 second elevator pitch, network with likeminded business professionals in Victoria, and bring a guest to introduce them to the rest of our Prodigy Group members. We’ve had a great summer this year, the Prodigy Group’s 3rd Annual Beach Volleyball Tournament was held at the Sticky Wicket Roof Top in July. With seven teams registered we had an exciting and action packed round robin tournament. Thank you to all those who donated prizes; Paul Holmes of Idea Zone, Rob Guthrie of WCG International and Dave Goudy of Serious Coffee. We also wanted to say a special thanks to Joel and the staff at the Sticky Wicket for their help as well as food and court donations. Our Member Mentorship program is actively taking applications as we continue this enlightening program. Throughout the year we will be accepting applicants from emerging professionals looking for a suitable mentor. We will be matching applicants with experienced chamber members who have expressed an interest in becoming mentors. We’ve received great feedback from participants thus far and are looking forward to facilitating new relationships in the program this fall. Prodigy Group is on Facebook, search for us and become a fan. You’ll get invitations to all of our events and can subscribe via SMS to our feed for the lastest updates on our programs and initiatives. Are you the type of person that likes to plan events? Do you have vision? Are you looking for an opportunity to use your business skill set? Consider applying for the Prodigy Group Committee, a volunteer position that lets you make a positive impact on the community and connect with likeminded Chamber members. We are now starting the application process for the 2010 Prodigy Group Committee. Please contact David Vinnels at david_vinnels@shaw.ca for more details and an application form.
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Member Mentorship matches emerging business professionals in Victoria with seasoned mentors, providing an opportunity for personal and professional growth through successful mentor relationships. Prodigy Group is now accepting both mentors and mentees on an ongoing basis. Our program will match the interests and availability of mentees and mentors and provide a framework for mutual growth. We encourage chamber members to apply today! Pass on your experience and strengthen the future of Victoria’s business community by mentoring our emerging leaders. We are currently looking for experienced mentors in the following fields: - Real Estate Development & Investing - Management Consulting - Public Relations/Marketing - Mediation & Wealth Management Apply today by contacting Janell Karst at Janell@blueoceaneducation.com. The Prodigy Group would like to thank chamber members for their participation in the Member Mentorship program. For more information on the program visit www.victoriachamber.ca/prodigy/mentorship
Business Matters
David Nicholson Chair Because of the efforts of the GVDA, the Greater Victoria region has been recognized as a hot bed of opportunity and a top North American “Micro City of the Future” according to the Financial Times. Ranked #1 in Canada and #3 in North America, Greater Victoria won top honours for our region’s economic infrastructure. The 2009/2010 FDi magazine North American Cities of the Future report compared over 60 different factors including; economic potential, human resources, high tech industry, business costs, quality of life and community infrastructure. The Greater Victoria region scored highly on a number of factors, including economic infrastructure and foreign direct investment strategy. In addition, the Greater Victoria Development Agency (GVDA) is letting the world know Greater Victoria is open for business with a new publication called “Business in Greater Victoria”. The publication will be distributed to major Canadian cities, San Francisco, Seattle, and to the Department of Foreign Affairs in North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. The aim of the publication is to invite investment and further diversify our local economy and all its sectors. An important regional initiative, the publication will highlight Greater Victoria’s key business sectors, economic strengths, labour force, as well as lifestyle qualities including real estate, climate, commuting, transportation and green and safe neighborhoods. An important mandate of the Greater Victoria Development Agency is to further strengthen economic conditions throughout our region by encouraging new investment and business from across North America and the world. For more information on how GVDA can help your business call our Economic Development Officer, Sasha Angus at 250-383-7191 ext 204 or email sangus@gvda.ca.
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Swan’s Hotel & BrewPub circa 1913
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the Business of
Heritage
reater Victoria has an ample number of heritage buildings in its downtown commercial district and residential neighbourhoods. Heritage architecture is a part of our community character and seen by many as the charm that sets us apart from other cities.
Business Matters
Both residents and tourists alike enjoy the heritage nature of our region. Though statistics from Tourism Victoria do not capture whether tourists come here specifically for heritage reasons, exit surveys say that 40% of tourists have visited historic sites while here. The Craigdarroch Castle, one prominent historic site, is sited as the third most visited attraction, garnering 12% of visitors in 2008.
heritage buildings as it is for those that are heritage. Some view that process as daunting and do not go through it, others as a challenge that they successfully deal with. There are benefits to working through those challenges. “There is a sense of personal comfort for customers who come into a well-maintained heritage structure,” says JC Scott. “And a sense of quality and permanence, which helps to create trust, and trust is a quality in customer relationships that all businesses seek.”
“What is perfect is contemporary designs that respect the city’s heritage concept”
While there are clearly specific businesses that exclusively focus on heritage, such as heritage walking tours or heritage attractions, heritage character is not used as an explicit marketing angle for Greater Victoria. Rather our heritage character is woven into the fabric of Tourism Victoria’s marketing message. The brand promise of Tourism Victoria opens by saying “Victoria is where old-world tradition meets new-world experiences.” Tourism Victoria uses images in their marketing that highlight the region’s history while at the same time blend the heritage with new product offerings. Tourism Victoria’s sales team helps to promote heritage by educating tour operators, travel agents, travel media, and meeting planners about Victoria’s heritage at trade shows, during training sessions and through familiarization tours.
The Heritage Landscape JC Scott is an architect with a degree in Architectural History who has been working in Victoria for some 30 years. His eye on Victoria sees heritage in the light of opportunity. Scott emphasizes the need to recognize that though the heritage character of our city is a part of our charm, Victoria should not view itself as a museum. “We shouldn’t just moth-ball our heritage buildings. Like Italy and France, we are business centric and must learn how to artfully create adaptive re-use approaches to developing heritage buildings.”
While there may be certain types of businesses that obviously work well in a heritage environment, Scott notes that all types of businesses in European cities are successful in buildings much older than those in Victoria. Creativity and respecting the value of heritage is the key while not getting caught up in maintaining smaller details, often interior, that don’t lend as significantly to preserving the heritage of the building. It’s commitment in action to blending old and new. In giving examples of old and new working together, Scott sites the Louvre in Paris as the perfect example of creative integration, with the pristine maintenance of the main building and the inverted glass pyramid in front of the Louvre, encasing the elevator entrance to the museum. “This is one of the most visited heritage buildings in the world, yet they don’t get all tied up about the modern addition. Both are honoured, celebrated and equal.” This type of creativity is possible because of working together and understanding the value of both old and new. Scott says that if we approach the development of our city with a thou-shalt-not-touch mindset to heritage, we create what he calls “the burden of history”. He notes that what
Through his experience, Scott sees the specific challenges for business as threefold: difficulties in the development process, the potential of increased costs and the possibilities of architectural limitations in what can be done with their properties. “However,” says JC, “I’ve dealt with all of these issues on different projects and they are all solvable.” Steve Barber, Senior Heritage Planner with the City of Victoria, partially agrees with the point of the difficulty in the process. He indicates that while it’s true that new developments in areas outside of a development permit area are generally not much of a problem, the process for development in a Development Permit Area is equally as rigorous for non-
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“
“
We are business centric and must learn how to artfully create adaptive reuse approaches to developing heritage buildings.
we instead need to do is “encourage a shift away from that approach through dialogue with people in roles that deal with heritage registration at all levels and by getting the message to the business community that heritage can be a business advantage. It simply requires the Art of Compromise.” Barber does not agree with the notion that preserving heritage in a stringent
Craigdarroch Castle circa 1890
manner is a burden. Though there are clear national heritage preservation standards that the city follows, he says most times heritage staff can come to an agreement with property owners as to what can and cannot be done architecturally. Still, what can be done architecturally with heritage buildings can cost significantly more than construction work on modern buildings – costs that some businesses simply cannot bear, even with the suite of incentive programs designed to assist owners. What is clear is that the City of Victoria has and will continue to work hard at maintaining our heritage character and the reputation that we have across the country for heritage preservation. Barber notes there is room for old and new and that we just need to strike a balance. “We need to be mindful of the value of heritage to the community. What is perfect is contemporary designs that respect the city’s heritage concept,” says Barber. City staff has a wealth of experience and knowledge on dealing with heritage conversions. There are professionals and organizations to help guide the building owners through the process. The potential outcome could be well worth the investment.
Businesses Built on Heritage With a heritage rich downtown, it’s not difficult to site companies that have made a name for themselves partially due to their signature architecture. Munro’s Books, Olde Morris Tobacconists, Rogers’ Chocolates to name a few. And Chris Le Fevre has carved a niche with award winning
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heritage conversions in Victoria’s Old Town. We interviewed a couple business owners who have made heritage a key aspect of their business. Abigail’s Hotel is a 23 room boutique hotel nestled in Fairfield on McClure Street. The hotel is in a heritage designated building circa 1930 and has received international recognition. One of the hotel’s most impressive accomplishments is being voted in the top 1% of the World’s Hotels by Expedia Insiders Select for two years running. Ellen Cmolik, owner of Abigail’s knows both the value and challenges of owning and running a business in a heritage building. Cmolik has done lots of renovations and maintenance to the building since purchasing it in 2003. From renovating existing rooms, to adding a laundry room, to repairing stucco and replacing the roof – there has been and continues to be ongoing work to maintain a high quality property. Not realizing all the issues and processes involved in renovating a heritage building, Cmolik was grateful for the assistance of the Victoria Civic Heritage Trust who helped navigate her through the process and saved her considerable money through advising on incentive programs. Still there are things she was not able to do because of the building’s heritage status. “I wanted to install double pane windows and was not allowed to do so because that would not comply to heritage standards,” says Cmolik. “As a result my heating costs are higher than they should be.” On the other hand, Cmolik readily submits that having her business in a well-maintained heritage building is
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a definite competitive advantage. “I don’t think we would get the approval ratings we do if we were in another type of building,” she says. “Heritage works in Victoria. It’s a quaint location and is part of why people come here. I’m happy I have my business in a heritage building even though it costs more to run.” Matt MacNeil runs great pubs, there’s no doubt about that. He is clear that
running his particular businesses in heritage sites is a good business move. Locating in heritage buildings is a business choice for him, not a matter of happenstance. Pubs and heritage are a good mix that simply works. “Pubs have been around for more than 1000 years,” says MacNeil. “The architecture of heritage simply matches the oldworld establishment ambience he
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wished to pursue with his business. “And some of the greatest heritage buildings were at one time either banks or churches. Those buildings were always located on the busiest corners in town.” Restoring the interior to authentic old world charm came with a price tag though. All in all, MacNeil said he likely invested twice as much in building the Bard and Banker to keep to the authenticity of the building’s heritage as a space of similar size would cost in a more modern building.
Irish Times Pub circa 1894
However, MacNeil’s pubs are destination locations. He often hears customers comment that they were told by others that they “had to go” to the Bard and Banker or one of his other locations, just to see the great authentic atmosphere. Always the entrepreneur, MacNeil admits he keeps his eyes and ears open for when other significant heritage properties become available and evaluates whether they are another good business opportunity. There is no question that the heritage character in Victoria positions us a unique destination on the West Coast with few if any other communities that can boast our character. We have seen many successful heritage renovations and preservations and we must all work to continue to develop these architecturally and economically important structures. The correct combination of modern services in heritage structures will and should continue to be a goal in our community. The complexities of how to preserve our heritage and yet continue to grow and develop requires considerable communication and understanding by all parties involved in heritage structures.
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camosun co-op success story
Why hire a Camosun Co-op student?
T
There are plenty of great reasons to hire a Camosun College co-op student. Two reasons bring McCall Bros. to co-op each year: vacation coverage and extra help during busy periods. Paul Taylor, CGA, and office manager at McCall Bros. hires a Camosun co-op student each year from the accounting program to assist with the busy fiscal year end as well as to carry on with day-to-day accounting procedures when Taylor takes a well deserved vacation. “As the only accountant, having a co-op student step in to take care of the day to day accounting work in your absence avoids returning to a huge backlog,” says Taylor. Although Taylor keeps in touch to provide any support the co-op student may require during his absence, he is able to relax and enjoy his vacation.
As the only accountant, having a co-op student step in to take care of the day to day accounting work in your absence avoids returning to a huge backlog. In this photo: Paul Taylor, Office Manager at McCall Bros and Co-op student Anastasia Brydge
From personal experience Taylor recognizes the value of co-operative education and is prepared to take the time to train a student each year; he realizes that the benefits gained are well worth the time invested in training. He finds the co-op hiring process relatively easy - choosing the student is the hard part. “The students are well prepared technically, although it is generally a new experience for the
students to work in a funeral home,” says Taylor. Brydge has no problem working in a funeral home. “Having the accounting experience is priceless,” she says. For more information about co-operative education at Camosun, call 250 370 4410 or visit www.camosun.ca/coop.
Anastasia Brydge, the current co-op student at McCall Bros., is enjoying working in a small business and really feels like part of the team. “This work term experience has reinforced my desire to pursue a career in accounting. Having a mentor like Paul is great, and I am learning so much by actually doing accounting work in the field.” Brydge is surprised at just how much the accountant in a small business has to do, and she now understands the relevance of all her other business courses, such as law and business ethics and how they come together in the real world.
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new members 3 Kings Contracting Ltd. We are a full service renovation contractor capable of carrying out any job efficiently and to a high standard of quality. Call today for a free quote. p: (250) 883-6810 e: jordan@3kingsltd.ca A to B Moving p: (250) 216-0276 e: info@atobmoving.com w: www.atobmoving.com A/C Logic Inc. Committed to providing the best and widest range of reliable and environmentally sustainable electric bicycles & scooters on Vancouver Island. p: (250) 384-4938 e: aclogic@shaw.ca Blue Ocean Education Inc. Blue Ocean Education will redefine entrepreneurship through innovative mentorship and higher level educational opportunities. Stay tuned for the launch of our ground breaking technology platform! p: (250) 514-3069 e: janell@blueoceaneducation.com w: www.blueoceaneducation.com CAFE Vancouver Island p: (778) 426-0248 e: vancouverisland@cafecanada.ca w: www.cafecanada.ca/vancouverisland California BODYLIFT At California BODYLIFT, we are dedicated to providing our clientele with a relaxing environment and time proven stress relief services. p: (250) 592-2639 e: calbodyvictoria@gmail.com Canadian Decompression & Pain Center (CDPC) CDPC Victoria Inc. treats pain associated with herniated discs, spinal stenosis, pinched nerves, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, scoliosis, fibromyalgia. p: (250) 592-7246 e: cdpcvictoria@gmail.com w: www.cdpc.info Goldstream Holistic Wellness Centre We provide the highest quality health products and services. A holistic and natural approach towards great health for ourselves, our family and community. p: (250) 590-9208 e: info@goldstrteamholisticwellness.ca w: www.goldstreamholisticwellness.com Irene Borecky / Westside Physiotherapy As an Athletic Therapist, I specialize in musculo-skeletal assessments and rehabilitation using manual therapy techniques and complete reconditioning back to an active lifestyle. p: (250) 382-0777 e: ireneborecky@gmail.com w: www.lifemark.ca
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Island CRM Island CRM, your local Maximizer Consulting Partner. We provide a wide variety of solutions for your customer relationship needs. Island CRM, Professional Solutions for Professional People. p: (866) 960-9831-703 e: info@islandcrm.com w: www.islandcrm.com Island Times Magazine A multi media approach to promoting businesses. Includes: Magazine ads, web traffic, directory, coupons and marketplace. Your 1st choice to advertise! p: (250) 240-7829 e: jdeleskie@shaw.ca w: www.islandtimesmagazine.ca Jawl & Bundon Lawyers p: (250) 385-5787 e: info@jawlandbundon.com KMS Tools & Equipment Ltd. A real tool store, for real tool users. We carry a wide selection of power tools, welding & woodworking equipment, automotive tools and much more. Best Value Guaranteed. p: (250) 391-4555 e: victoria@kmstools.com w: www.kmstools.com MacPros Consulting & Computers Group Ltd. The MacPros is a consulting and services company that provides accurate advice on Apple products and is the only Vancouver Island certified reseller of LightSpeed and Daylite business products. p: (250) 984-4100 e: christopher@themacpros.ca w: themacpros.ca Nash MultiMedia Inc . Give your business the internet exposure it deserves by directing clients your way with Nash MultiMedia Inc. Operating GreaterVictoria.com, VancouverIslandBedBreakfast.com and CanadianBedBreakfast.com p: (250) 590-0907 e: webmaster@nashmedia.net w: www.nashmedia.net Ocean Explorations The responsible whale watching leader for over 15 years. We take pride in our service and provide an adventurous, eco-friendly tour to locals and tourists. p: (250) 383-6722 e: whales@oceanexplorations.com w: www.oceanexplorations.com Old House Village Hotel & Spa p: (250) 703-0202 e: info@oldhousevillage.com w: www.oldhousevillage.com Pacific Rollshutters and Awnings Ltd. p: (250) 361-4714 e: info@pacificrollshutters.com w: www.pacificrollshutters.com
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www.victoriachamber.ca Pink Sugar Cupcakery p: (250) 590-8055 e: info@pinksugarcupcakery.com w: www.pinksugarcupcakery.com Quality Alarms p: (250) 389-1330 e: contact@qualityalarms.com w: www.qualityalarms.com Saunders Subaru Sales & Service Ltd. p: (250) 474-2211 e: sales@saunderssubaru.com w: www.saunderssubaru.com Sawyer Asset Management Group p: (250) 384-1184 e: segfunds@shaw.ca Super Services for Seniors Inc. Super Services For Seniors provides private senior support services, keeping seniors independent using a non-medical approach, offering services including, In-home support, companions, transportation, and 24/7 care. p: (250) 592-0029 e: ssfs@shaw.ca w: www.superservicesforseniors.com Uplands Golf Club Challenging golf. Welcoming people. p: (250) 592-7313 e: officeadmin@uplandsgolfclub.org w: www.uplandsgolfclub.org Victoria International Academy of English Ltd. Victoria International Academy is a private language school in downtown Victoria. VIA offers English programs for international students. VIA also has a nationally recognized teacher training program (TESL). p: (250) 414-0111 e: admin@eslschoolcanada.com w: www.eslschoolcanada.com Vixen Hair Studio Hair fashion with the customer in mind. p: (250) 381-8496 e: info@vixenhairstudio.com w: www.vixenhairstudio.com Wally Marcinkovic - Realtor p: (250) 686-1111 e: wally@victoriabchomes.com w: www.victoriabchomes.com www.coffeeguy.org Sharing the benefits of ganoderma, “The King of all Herbs,” through one of the world’s most consumed beverages - coffee. Ask about your complimentary coffee break. p: (250) 516-8091 e: bpeden@shaw.ca w: www.coffeeguy.org
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policy moves Meeting with Justice Minister Rob Nicholson The Greater Victoria Chamber joined other chambers and boards of trade in the province at a meeting with federal Minister of Justice, Rob Nicholson. This broad representative of the business community spoke with the minister about the need to amend the Criminal Code so that evidence that an offence is committed by a prolific offender is considered as an aggravating factor in sentencing. This amendment would need to be made to section 218 of the criminal code, which currently enumerates a number of aggravating and mitigating factors to consider during sentencing, but is silent on the nature of an offender’s incorrigible disregard for the law. Minister Nicholson noted that there are currently a number of pieces of legislation that have been introduced by his government to address issues of crime and public safety. Some that are particularly of concern to the business community include: • limiting credit for time spent in pre-sentencing custody; • identity theft and related misconduct; • modernizing criminal procedures including flight to avoid prosecution and streamlining the identification of criminals; • ending conditional sentences for property and other serious crimes; and, • legislation to provide police with investigative powers in keeping with modern telecommunications technologies.
Chamber Board Elections Have your say! Nomination letter goes Tuesday, to general membership September 8, 2009 Nominations close
Thursday, September 24, 2009 12 noon
Mailout ballots to general membership
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Ballots close
Wednesday, October 14, 2009 12 noon
Receive results
from Crawford Paterson - later in the afternoon October 14, 2009
Board Planning Session
Nov. 27-28, 2009
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Minister Nicholson noted that there are currently a number of pieces of legislation that have been introduced by his government to address issues of crime and public safety. Harmonized Sales Tax The announcement of the Harmonized Sales Tax for British Columbia has brought a flurry of activity. The Chamber and the Downtown Victoria Business Association partnered to hold an information session in August and has forwarded the questions and concerns of our members to the Ministry of Finance. The event was well attended with more than 200 members present. As this issue develops, the Chamber will be providing up to date information to members on how the HST could or will affect your business. Procurement Working Groups The Chamber identified challenges with the government procurement processes and has created working groups designed to provide constructive criticism to improve the procurement process. We have had three meetings so far to discuss procurement and have divided our work into provincial and federal government procurement. The federal government related work for the group is complete and chamber staff will work on issues related to National Master Standing Offer contracts as they affect local business. The provincial government working group has been very active and is part way through identifying tasks for a larger lobby effort. There are further meetings of the provincial working group planned. It is expected that the task of the provincial working group will continue for some time and the Chamber will provide more detailed reporting as that work progresses.
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ask an expert Why should I implement green computing in my organization? How should I start?
BC HST
>> Jessica Vreeswijk, Co-Founder of Terrabytes
>> Charlotte Hoggard, President, T. Charlotte Hoggard Inc.
Consider a few of these statistics: green IT reduces businesses’ energy costs by 15%, on average, reduces operating costs by increasing efficiency, increases employee and customer loyalty and helps organizations to be sustainable through technical solutions. The first step to applying green computing/information technology (IT) practices to your business is to know where you currently stand. Completing an assessment is critical to your success. An audit will provide you with your baseline and valuable data about your current operations. This data will enable you to assess whether there is a business case, set goals, effectively engage employees, measure the impact of improvements, and ensure you can demonstrate results. As the field of green IT is relatively new, there is still discussion about the appropriate key performance indicators and how to report on improvements. Experts recommend a combination of policy-based metrics (e.g. Do you have a responsible purchasing policy you adhere to?) and statistics such as greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption. How should you gather the necessary information for your assessment? While simple tools and calculators (such as Forrester’s Green IT Baseline Calculator) exist, the broad assumptions made by these calculators are restrictive. They often over promise and will lead you to set unrealistic goals. A customized assessment will go much further in providing a clear picture of the opportunities for your enterprise. A consultant should also provide recommendations for the highest leverage initiatives. The cost of bringing in a consultant to conduct an assessment in comparison to the cost savings identified is often very reasonable. Jessica Vreeswijk is the co-founder of Terrabytes, a consulting firm that helps businesses measure and reduce the impact of their IT operations. www.terrabytesconsulting.com
Harmonized Sales Tax (HST), is GST with some provincial adjustments. It will be filed on regular GST returns and rebate forms and subject to the regular GST registration requirements. The regular GST registration requirement is +$30,000 of GST/HST taxable supplies in four consecutive fiscal quarters and +$50,000 for public service bodies (there are additional special rules for charities). You can also register for GST/HST voluntarily if you make taxable supplies of less than the threshold but are only allowed credits for GST/HST paid related to the specific taxable supplies you provide. Once you are registered you must collect and remit GST/HST. If you choose not to register for GST/HST because you are below the required registration threshold, you would not collect GST/HST and would not be eligible for credits of the GST/HST paid related to the GST/HST taxable supplies. For the most part HST will be collected on items currently subject to GST. The BC government has announced that HST will not be collected on the following items: •
Fuel for motor vehicles, boats and aircraft;
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Books;
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Children-sized clothing and footwear;
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Children’s car seats and car booster seats;
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Diapers; and
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Feminine hygiene products.
BC has also announced there will be a partial rebate of the provincial portion of the BC HST on new homes up to $400,000 and a refundable BC HST credit of $230 per family member for individuals with income up to $20,000 and families with incomes up to $25,000. Can your experts answer all your questions now about BC HST? No. Until the actual legislation is drafted/finalized – we expect at least a draft by September 30, 2009 – we can only explain the current GST/HST in place and the information released by BC or federal governments. But the GST legislation does exist and our BC HST will be GST with minor adjustments at the rate of 12%. So to prepare your business for BC HST ensure your systems are correct for GST. Then your transition will be easier to the final BC version. Charlotte has over 20 years in the sales tax and forensic areas, with CRA and in public practice. t.charlotte@hoggardcga.ca
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