Impactvisual.ca's News Feed http://www.businessvi.ca/ Fri, 12 Mar 2010 01:07:29 -0800 649 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=681 Commercial building awards
VICTORIA - The Commercial Division of the Victoria Real Estate Board is currently seeking nominations for its 18th annual Commercial Building Awards.
This competition is dedicated solely to the advancement of excellence in exterior construction and design of commercial building and development projects throughout the Greater Victoria area.
Eligibility is simple. Nominated projects must have been completed between June 1, 2008 and May 31, 2009, be sensitive to the environment, esthetically pleasing and answer a specific developmental need within the community.
Excellence awards are presented in Industrial, Commercial and Investment categories. Subcategories are developed by the competition judges and are based on nominations received. Judges are chosen each year from Victoria’s business community.
For more information or a copy of the nomination form, please visit www.vreb.org/commercial.html or call the Victoria Real Estate Board at (250) 385-7766.

Columbia Fuels sold for $34.5M
VICTORIA - Columbia Fuels has been sold for $34.5 Million to Alberta-based Parkland Income Fund bought the home-heating oil supplier for $34.5 million.
“We’re a major national independent fuel marketer and we don’t have a large presence on Vancouver Island so it was a natural fit with us,” Mike Chorlton, Parkland president, said.
Columbia Fuels sells bulk fuel, lubricant, cardlock and biofuel, as well as being the major supplier of home heating oil on the Island. It has 200 employees.

Bear Mountain sale is near?
LANGFORD - Bear Mountain owner Len Barrie is apparently reconsidering selling the development to Siraj Capital, a  Saudi Arabian financial consortium.
The sukuk, or an Islamic bond issue, hopes to raise $380 Million by the end of August to buy Barrie, who also owns the National Hockey League’s Tampa Bay Lightning, out of Bear Mountain.
Barrie is president and CEO of the Bear Mountain Master Partnership, was in London negotiating with Siraj, but told the Victoria Times Colonist that he admits he is undecided about selling the 500-hectare development which he believes could be worth between $2.5 Billion and $3.2 Billion when fully built out.
“I think we might want to hold,” Barrie told the Times Colonist, noting the Victoria real estate market has started to rebound and his development has recently inked deals for 120 properties with expectations that number could hit 190 in August.
For the past six months, Barrie and his group have been negotiating with Siraj Capital on a deal rumoured to be worth over $400 Million.

Red Barn stores purchased
VICTORIA - A group of four former Thrifty Foods managers have purchased the three Red Barn Market outlets in Saanich.
Russ Benwell, Ashley Bourque, Sam Schwabe and Peter Hansen have purchased the Red Barn Country Market at Vanalman Avenue, and markets at Mattick’s Farm in Cordova Bay and at 5550 West Saanich Road from Ian Fatt, who is retiring.

Concert looks at Yates build
VICTORIA - Concert Properties is looking at building a 12 storey office building in the 700 block of Yates Street.
Concert owns the vacant lot at 726-728 Yates, and has acquired, subject to conditions, adjoining properties to the east, including the English Sweet Shop up to Millie’s Lane.
Concert would build an office tower featuring retail stores at ground level with two levels of underground parking, if it obtains the necessary zoning.
Concert has built a number of projects in Greater Victoria, including the Belvedere condominiums in the Humboldt Valley, the Chelsea in Fairfield, and the Marriott Hotel and the Astoria.

Developments on their way
VICTORIA - A number of new developments are coming soon to Vancouver Island, as developers witness signs of recovery in the real estate market.
Sunriver Estates in Sooke is one of the projects on its way, with others including Qualicum Landing in Qualicum Beach, and Woodland Shores, a $95 Million development between Youbou and Lake Cowichan that covers 1,200 acres.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2009 15:03:45 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=680 Real estate sales promising
Powell River Peak
POWELL RIVER - The same number of sales were recorded this May, compared to May, 2008, Powell River Sunshine Coast Real Estate Board statistics reveal.
In May 2009, the average price of a single-family residential home in Powell River was $279,950. In May 2008 the average price was $328,028. This year, 20 single-family homes sold for a value of $5.6 Million. In May last year, the same number of homes sold, but for a value of about $6.4 Million.
Also in May 2009, six other single-family units sold for a total of about $1.6 Million. That compares to five units that sold in May 2008 for $793,900.
Overall, 31 units sold in May 2009 for a value of about $8.2 Million. That compares to 34 units that sold in May 2008 for a value of about $8.3 Million.
Meanwhile, the city of Powell River issued 19 building permits in May 2009 for a value of $885,500. In May 2008, 23 building permits were issued for a value of about $3.2 million.
In May 2009, four residential units were created compared to three in May 2008.
To the end of May 2009, 72 permits were issued for a value of about $4.2 million. In the same time period last year, 84 permits were issued for a value of about $11.7 million. In 2009, 20 residential units were created to the end of May.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2009 15:01:09 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=679 Wal-Mart making progress
Campbell River Courier-Islander
CAMPBELL RIVER - Site preparation for Campbell River’s Wal-Mart Supercentre is finally underway. After sitting idle and silent for months, the site across the highway from Home Depot came alive Monday as an army of excavators went to work.
“It’s our biggest job in Campbell River,” said Wayne Schofield, owner of Ketza Pacific Construction, named general contractor for the project last week. “We’ve done bigger jobs (elsewhere) but this is fairly good sized job for the town. It’s probably the biggest one since the Discovery Mall was built I would guess, about 1997.”
Ketza Pacific came to Campbell River from the Yukon in 1993 to build the Sportsplex. Walmart plans to build a 14,205-square-metre (152,900-square-foot) Supercentre at 1477 Island Highway, across from Home Depot. The store was originally proposed to be in the 100,000-square-foot range, but the world’s largest retailer announced last July that plans had been expanded to a larger ‘Supercentre.’ Walmart said last month the store will provide more than 350 permanent jobs and up to 200 construction jobs.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2009 15:00:36 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=678 Funding relief for Harmac
Nanaimo Daily News
NANAIMO - Officials at Harmac pulp mill say they may not get the maximum amount they qualify for in federal funding from Ottawa’s $1-billion aid package for the nation’s struggling pulp and paper industry, announced last week, but they expect it will be enough to allow the mill to move forward with long-delayed projects.
Harmac, just one of 27 pulp mills from across Canada that fits the criteria for funding from the Green Transformation Program, is eligible to receive more than $70 million.
The program is designed to help offset approximately $7 billion in subsidies that American pulp mills receive, but only Canadian mills that use black liquor in their operations can qualify for the funding, which leaves out other struggling pulp mills on Vancouver Island.

Port storage possibilites
The Harbour City Star
NANAIMO - With pulp and sawmills across B.C. closed to the ongoing downturn in the forest industry, the Nanaimo Port Authority has had some inquiries in recent months about storing disassembled mills on its docks.
However, Bernie Dumas, president and CEO of the NPA, said no action has yet been taken on any of the inquiries and no mills were identified as targeted for shipment overseas.
A disassembled pulp mill from Squamish has been stored on two acres of the NPA’s waterfront property close to the Harmac pulp mill since last year, awaiting shipment to China.
“We’re more than happy to keep the pulp mill from Squamish on our docks as long as its shippers (Cole Freight Inc.) continue to pay the storage bills, and we’d certainly consider storing other mills on our property as well, but there haven’t been any offers yet,” Dumas said.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:58:57 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=677 Council okays Ucluelet multiplex
Westerly News
TOFINO - Tofino council endorsed a $17 Million funding application that the Westcoast Mutiplex Society is submitting to the federal government tomorrow.
The grant application is for total funding of the multiplex that would house a skating rink and a swimming pool, serving local communities on the West Coast.
Kendal Kelly, co-chair for the society, appeared before council on Tuesday to explain that they needed one signature from a local municipality to support their application for infrastructure funding through Western Economic Diversification Canada’s Community Adjustment Fund.
“There is no matching needed, we’re just looking for council to endorse our application,” Kelly said.
The society was only made aware of the grant recently and that’s why their appeal to council for support was on such short notice, Kelly explained.

Smaller operators don’t favor tax
Westerly News
TOFINO - There were several objections to the idea of extending the equivalent of a two per cent additional hotel room tax to smaller accommodation providers when the issue was discussed during a recent Tofino chamber of commerce meeting.
The idea of having accommodations with three or fewer rooms contribute some sort of voluntary tax to equal the two per cent additional hotel room tax contributed by fixed roof accommodations was brought up for discussion at the general membership meeting after the chamber board raised the issue.
Tofino’s fixed roof accommodation providers (with four or more rooms) have been charging the extra tax (on top of the Hotel Service Tax, at eight per cent) since June 2007 after the majority voted in favour of it. The province then returns funding to the chamber’s marketing arm - Tourism Tofino - to be used for marketing the area.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:57:42 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=676 Mastrodonato retires
• After 50 years in the workforce, Joe Mastrodonato has stepped down from his manager’s position at Coast Realty and retired.
• Chad Van Diemen has taken over as the new Head Coach for the Powell River Kings hockey team in the 2009-2010 year.
• Listeners are encouraged to tune into Powell River’s newest radio station VOAR Christian Family Radio 101.3 FM.
• Former Powell River resident Dan Lucas celebrated his 20th year as owner/broker of Lucas Real Estate in Portland, Maine, recently. A standout in Powell River Minor Hockey, Dan played on Wayne Gretzky’s line in Sault Ste. Marie before becoming a first round draft pick of the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers. He played for the Flyers and Maine Mariners.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:54:21 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=675 Ideal Tackle renos done
• After renovations, Ideal Tackle is open again in their 2663 Island Highway address.
• SouthEnd Farm Vineyards, owned by Jill Ogasawara and Ben McGuffie, is a recent business venture on Quadra Island, which offers a variety of quality, island-produced wines.
• The Campbell River Storm Junior B hockey team has hired John Hedican as their head scout.
• Kevin Grief was Top Overall Salesman for the month of June, while Ron May was named Top New Car Salesman for June at Bill Howich Chrysler RV & Marine, on 2777 North Island Highway.
• A Power Smart Excellence Award was handed to the Shook, Wickham, Bishop & Field law firm on behalf of BC Hydro, in recognition of their excellence in energy conservation.
• Still Water Books and Art is a brand new business venture on Shoppers Row, owned by Trevor and Ruth McMonagle. Customers are welcomed to visit their location for quality merchandise.
• Dr. Jan Lindsay has been named as the president of the board for  North Island College, making this the board’s first woman president.
• A new Subway location is now open for business in Mariner Square, near Save-On-Foods.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:53:53 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=674 Duncan new Tayco manager
• The staff at Tayco Paving Company congratulate Andrew Duncan upon his being promoted to General Manager.
• The Comox Valley saw the recent grand opening of Brambles Market in 244 A 4th Street, which offers all locally made and grown produce and products.
• Gary Banman, Jay Miller, Al Rylance, Len Bowes, Cary Kerr, Todd Austin, Lorrie Guyader, and Bruce Miller, all staff at Brian McLean Chevrolet on 2145 Cliffe Avenue, are to be congratulated on their dedicated service and status with the General Motors Service Consultants and Tech Guilds.
• Brand new business The Broken Spoke Coffee House at 420 Fitzgerald Avenue, offers no-charge coffee cupping at 2:00 on Saturdays.
• The BC Lung Association has appointed Haley Humphrey to their 2009/10 board of directors.
• Rob Backhouse has been named as the Division Director for Investors Group on #22 - 1599 Cliffe Avenue.
• Courtenay’s Insurance Centre can now be reached in their new location of #109 - 364 8th Street.
• Leslie Beierback is welcomed to the sales team at Sunwest Auto Centre, on 401 Ryan Road.
• Popper’s Cafe recently held their grand opening on #105 - 501 4th Street. The cafe features delicious European inspired specialties for a fair price.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:51:53 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=673 Studio House now open
• The Studio House is a brand new store located on 451 Main Street, which sells locally made clothing, monsters and art to customers.
• The staff at Pacific Rim Chiropractic & Naturopathic Medicine at 381 Main Street, welcome Jenn Hewko as their new Registered Midwife.
• As of June 18th, Tofino Post Office member Gitte has retired her position.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:49:56 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=672 Bezeau building Park
• The local Port Alberni Co-op recently celebrated their 81st anniversary serving the community.
• Christina Proteau, a local lawyer with Badovinac, Scoffield, and Mosley, was called to the bar at the Port Alberni Provincial Court.
• Port Alberni is expecting a Lube-X business, started by Kim and Betty Heeks, to open at the North Port Plaza in the near future.
• A & A Carpets on 5110 Argyle Street, is now in their 34th year of business.
• June 13 marked the opening day of the Matte Gallery and Art Supplies store on 4297 Princess Road. The store is owned by Julie and Len Matte.
• Harbour Barber is now open to the public on the Harbour Quay, offering kid’s and men’s haircuts.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:48:49 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=671 Brady’s now Advantage
• Brady’s Quality Signs has undergone a change in name and ownership. The business was purchased from Brady and Patty Reaume by Perry Brooks, and it is now under the name of Advantage Signs & Prints.
• A Cedar Grove Roofing Supply store is now open in a location on 1000 Shearme Road.
• After 25 years serving the community, Ballenas Engineering, owned by Hans Heringa, is going out of business.
• Disco Lemonade Clothing & Stuff is now open for business on #4 - 102 East Island Highway.
• The professional sales staff at Joe Cunningham Ford on 410 East Island Highway, welcomes Earl Logan to their team.
• Parksville Husky bids farewell to Rob and Brenda Deleau, after 36 years of dedicated service.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:45:35 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=670 Hughes joins Enzo’s
• Heather Hughes has just joined the Window Covering Department at Enzo Interiors on 2221 McGarrigle Road. They can be reached at 250-758-3381.
• Michael Mah, a chartered accountant with Nanaimo’s Church Pickard & Co., was presented with a Community Service Award recently from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of BC.
• Cooks Nook opened June 13th in Country Club Centre. They can be reached at 250-760-1017.
• Clothing store Urban Planet opened in the North Town Shopping Centre. They can be contacted at 250-760-2001.
• The former Cruise Ship Centres has changed its name to Expedia Cruise Ship Centres. Open Monday-Saturday, 9-5, the company is the strongest travel agency in Canada, and has multiple offices throughout North America. They can be found at #103-6750 Island Highway N.
• The Solace Centre, Massage Therapy, Yoga and aromatherapy has opened at 719 Fitzwilliam Street. It is owned by Lynne Carroll. For more information, go to www.solacecentre.ca.
• Dean Forsyth has opened Dean’s Computer Clinic on 48 Kennedy Street. They can be reached by phone at 250-619-2547, or by email at deanforsyth@gmail.com.
• Lorne Mielty has recently taken up a sales position with Armtec, a company specializing in drainage tubing, culverts, bridges, infrastructure items and more.
• On behalf of the Children’s Miracle Network, all sales associates for the Nanaimo Re/Max realty branch have chosen to donate money to the foundation on behalf of every property sale, making Nanaimo a ‘Miracle City’ for Western Canada.
• The Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation was the recipient of $2,500 from the Harewood Arms Pub, for the purpose of their ER space expansion.
• Svea Interior Design has been opened at owner/designer Svea Lewington’s home 4th street. Her specialties are furniture selection and placement, and lighting design. For more information go to www.nanaimointeriordesign.com.
• James Kungel has joined the team at Meyers Norris Penny as Senior Tax Manager. To find out more about how Kungel or other accountants can help you, call 250-753-8251.
• 2006 Citizen of the Year, and Chairman of Vancouver Island Conservation Council for B.C., Don Hubbard recently retired from his position at Hub City Paving. Beginning with Hub City in 1965, Hubbard has been working with them for 44 years.
• Long Lake Chateau Independent Retirement Living is had its 20th Anniversary and Grand Reopening Celebration on June 13th. Find out more about the company at www.longlakechateau.com.
• Wholesale Sports Outdoor Outfitters is hoping to open its first store on Vancouver Island at the old Canadian Wholesale building on 4900 Wellington Road by the end of the month.
• Mid-Island Co-op opened its 9th gas bar in Nanaimo on June 28th on 1350 Cranberry Avenue.
• ABC Ready Mix recently brought on Shane Moscrip as their dispatcher. For more information about the company, go to www.abcreadymix.ca.
• Illuminations Lighting Group on Wellington Road recently celebrated its 34th anniversary with a 10 day sale at the end of June. Find out more at www.illuminationsbc.com.
• West Coast Shutters, Blinds, and Closets has moved to a bigger location at #2-6332 Metral Drive. Find out more about the company at www.westcoastshuttersbc.com.
• The McDonalds restaurant on Mary Ellen Drive has finished its renovation and is now open again for business.
• A Serious Coffee store will be opening up in the Vancouver Island Conference Centre at 60 Commercial Street. Their business hours will be 6:30-9 Monday to Friday, 7-9 Saturday, and 7-8 Sunday.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:45:02 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=669 Bezeau building Park
• The Heritage Business Park project on 1158 Rocky Creek Road is a creative venture being developed by Guy Bezeau, the owner of Re/Max Ocean Pointe Realty of Ladysmith.
• The Business Improvement Area now features a website, specially designed by Artzstudio’s own Art Soles.
• A successful year of business was celebrated by Hansel & Gretel Candy Co. on 9748 Willow Street.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:44:23 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=668 Hattons buy Motorsports
• Duncan Motorsports at 1063 Canada Avenue, is under new ownership as Don and Natalie Hatton take over the business.
• A Canadian Tire location is now available in the Cowichan Valley, with the address of #216 - 275 Fell Avenue.
• Stephen Frasher, previously with the Washington Group, has become the new president of Western Forest Products.
• The Cowichan Valley Capitals hockey team’s most recent shareholder, Robert Davison, has taken up the position of Managing Partner and General Manager of the team.
• The Cowichan Valley Meat Market is in it’s 6th year of business serving the community.
• Graham Bruce, former mayor of North Cowichan, has been named as the executive director for Island Corridor Foundation.
• Two new employees, Chelsea Wall and Heidi Mendenhall, are welcomed to the staff at Chainsaw Sally’s full service salon, located on 138 Southshore Road.
• The Quamichan Inn at 1478 Maple Bay Road, now has their verandah and patio open to the public.
• Duncan’s 49th Parallel Grocery store celebrates it’s 2nd anniversary, in it’s location on 550 Cairnsmore Street.
• David Faithful has been named as the Salesperson of the Month for May at the Ken Evans Ford dealership, on 439 Trans Canada Highway.
• Dr. Gordon Levin is set to take over the dental practice of Dr. Eric Qualley, who retires from his practice on #9-301 Festubert Street.
• The professional styling team at Tran’s Haircut welcome Tracey to their 442 Trans Canada Highway location.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:43:28 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=667 Warkentin joins SLQ
• Streetlight Intelligence Inc. (“SLQ”) is pleased to announce that David Warkentin has joined SLQ in the capacity of Chief Marketing Officer, effective June 24, 2009. Mr. Warkentin has 30 years of hands-on leadership in sales, sales management and general management experience.
• The Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants has named John Rankin as a Chartered Accountant - designated specialist in Investigative and Forensic Accounting (CA-IFA). The office of JR Rankin is located on 1903 Hampshire Road.
• Stephen Whipp Financial has opened up an office in Victoria’s Westshore, found in Suite 200 - 2826 Bryn Maur Road in Langford.
• Victoria’s Cactus Club Cafe location received a top rating in the province for it’s bathroom commodity on behalf of The Powder Room, a website that rates the nation’s restroom general upkeep,  waiting lines, and cleanliness - or lack thereof.
• Dominion Lending Centres Victoria, owned by Roger Levesque, was stated as 6th best in Canada for 2009.
• The Victoria Conservatory of Music has elected their board of directors for the coming year, consisting of: Ray Moore - Treasurer, Jinnie Bradshaw - Vice President, Leslee Farrell - Vice President, Ed Chwyl - President, Sandy Henderson - Staff Representative, Jane Butler McGregor - Ex Officio, Wes Wraggett - Faculty Representative, and Governors Sandra McCallum, Bob Waldhaus, Bob Plecas, Heather Maclean, Bruce Dutton, Jeremy Kinsman, Shannon von Kaldenberg, and Wendy MacNeil.
• WildPlay Ltd. adventure recreation company in Victoria, has been chosen as a finalist for the 2009 Global Dell Small Business Excellence Awards.
• The board for the 2009-2010 Victoria Tall Ships Society has been finalized as: Barry Newcomb - President, Roger Girouard - Vice President, Bob Brown - Treasurer, Steven Threadkell - Secretary, Kevin Carle, Audra Malawsky, Torunn Andersen, Deborah Zornes, Susan McLoughlin, Harry Martin, Anne Daniels, Tim Henderson, Rick Town, Eric Zhelka, Jeannie Fuller, Doug Watt, Donna Atkinson, and Lorne Whyte - Trustees.
• KPMG senior manager Lenora Lee was presented with an Early Achievement Award from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of BC. The institute also awarded chartered accountant Jaime Roberts with a Community Service Award.
• Roger’s Chocolates on 913 Government Street, has won first place for the Victoria News Group’s Best of the City competition, making this their 14th win in a row.
• Dale Gann is the new president of UVic Properties Investments Inc., which manages the Vancouver Island Tech Park in Saanich and the Marine Technology Centre in North Saanich.
• Redbird Communications has been awarded the brand development project for the North Island Tourism Advisory Council, and is currently doing scouting tours and stakeholder consultation prior to beginning creative work.
• Leah Rourke, Director and Principal Interior Designer of Rourke Group Design Inc (RGD), is celebrating the company’s one year anniversary at their new location on Vanalman Ave with having passed the National Council for Interior Design Qualification exam.
• Former Tourism Victoria president and CEO Lorne Whyte, has been appointed as the executive director for the Help Fill a Dream Foundation.
• A Home Outfitters location is now open on 3170 Tillicum Road.
• Coast Capital Savings welcomes Tracy Redies to their staff as the new Chief Executive Officer. Three new directors: Christian Findlay, Dan Burns, and Karen Kesteloo, were also welcomed onto the board of directors.
• A new superintendent has been chosen for the Catholic Independent Schools of the Diocese of Victoria, as Leo Challand takes over from Joseph Colistro.
• Streetlight Intelligence Inc. has named David Warkentin as their new Chief Marketing Officer.
• Business Examiner newspaper is pleased to announce that Simon Lindley has joined Manager-Editor Martin Hunter on their team as a Senior Sales Consultant. Simon is a former Publisher of Business Examiner who has been with the Better Business Bureau. He can be reached at simon@businessexaminer.net or 250-381-3926.
• Chris Kucharski has been elected as the Vice President of Operations for Shaw Communcations Inc.
• The Appraisal Institute of Canada has awarded Bronwen Vaughn of Baker & Osland Appraisals Ltd., the status of Accredited Appraiser.
• Fashion Focus Hair designers welcomes Sharleen to their staff at The Bay Centre Mall.
• Clare Martin has joined on to the staff at Vision 2000 Travel Group’s Blaney’s Travel branch.
• Adore Jewelry is a new business opened up by Alexander Carey, a seasoned jeweler in the area. The store is located in Market Square.
• Centra Windows opened at 945 Alston Street on May 23rd. To find out more information about the company, go to www.centrawindows.com.
• Rick Brintnell is stepping down as owner of Bell Buoy barber shop, and Pamela Glover will be taking over. After 49 years of cutting hair, Brintnell will not be retiring all together, but working two days a week.
• Erin Lumley has joined the team at Henley and Walden Personal and Business Law as an Associate Lawyer. They can be found at 201-2377 Bevan Avenue in Sidney.
• TD Canada Trust in Victoria has appointed Gerry Smith as Senior Manager. Smith has been with TD Canada Trust for 14 years, and has been in the mortgage business for 35.
• Shannon Renault, of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, and Nicola Lemmer, B.C. Ministry of Advanced Education and Labour Market Development’s director have joined the board of the Our Place Society.
• Studio 26 Photography’s Loren Greig is now president of the Vancouver Island Women’s Business Network. For more information on the network, go to www.viwbn.org.
• Romeo Restaurants, an Island business celebrated it’s anniversary recently. The business was started 35 years ago by Dmitri Mavrikos in Duncan, and was soon followed by a Victoria restaurant.
• Robinson’s Outdoor Store celebrated its 80th anniversary in business recently.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:42:49 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=666
Could Catalyst be a catalyst for tax revolt?

Will Catalyst become the catalyst for a much wider tax revolt?
Catalyst employees hand delivered $1.5 Million cheques to Port Alberni, North Cowichan, Campbell River and Powell River for their property taxes - a combined $6 Million.
The bill was actually $23 Million. Catalyst made good on their promise. They’ve been asking for tax relief for years, only to receive a relative pittance in promised reductions from North Cowichan, Port Alberni, Campbell River and Powell River.
Council has been reluctance to acquiesce to Catalyst’s demands  - they’ve got a budget to operate and voters to please - but it’s clear they just don’t get it. The forest industry, B.C.’s cash cow for a century, has been experiencing tough times for years. There’s not a lot left to be milked after suppliers and employees have been paid. In many cases, the forest companies have been bleeding red ink for quarter after fiscal quarter, and in order to become viable over the long-term, they need to cut their costs. Now. It’s serious.
A story in the Victoria Times Colonist quotes a Catalyst consultant as stating: “You’ve got a situation where Catalyst shares have been trading between 8 cents and 20 cents a share and municipal property taxes now account for 6 cents a share. People have got to recognize that this is a serious issue.”
Catalyst has also approached the B.C. Supreme Court about unfair municipal tax rates, claiming it pays 35 per cent of the property tax bill in the four cities, yet uses only 6 per cent of the services.
Municipal politicians are expressing outrage at Catalyst, using inflamatory language as they “stand up” for their taxpaying residents and voters.
One might understand politicians posturing on this issue, because it has dire ramifications for homeowners and other sources of tax revenue. Yet it’s indicative of what has become the mindset of many in this province: That business is big, bad, cold and made-to-be-taxed. Perhaps one can understand: For politicians who make these decisions, they become eligible for paycheques when enough residents write their name down on a ballot at election time. And there are a lot more residents than business owners in every community. All they look at, apparently are those numbers.
In B.C., business owners are not allowed to cast votes at election time on behalf of their companies, despite the significant investment they’re making in the communities they serve. Being denied that right, they are also at the mercy of the patrons at city hall, whose job it is spend the money firms earn, then pay tax on.
If Catalyst is successful in their appeal, what next? Will commercial property taxpayers decide to take on local governments through class action suits to challenge tax rates that are far in excess of what homeowners pay? Perhaps. How else can the business community make local governments pay attention?
A friend of mine told me how, during the days of Bob Rae’s reign of error in Ontario, the NDP government was implementing arduous policies that were crippling the economy and punishing business and taxpayers. A small group of people decided to organize a tax revolt, encouraging homeowners to refuse to pay their property taxes. What they were encouraged to do was put their property tax in a savings account, and the interest earned would be enough to pay the penalty for late payment of taxes. Enough people participated to make it effective.
While scoffing at first, the government was forced to pay attention and back up. They simply began to run out of money.
It’ll be most interesting to see how the courts rule in the Catalyst case. If it rules in favor, then watch for more change.

]]> Wed, 15 Jul 2009 14:41:57 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=665 Courtenay store makes number 11 for QF

By Goody Niosi Writer

COMOX VALLEY - Driftwood Mall is getting a new grocery store.
It’s Quality Foods, which began in 1982 as Qualicum Foods in Qualicum Beach, which has announced it will be expanding this fall with its second store in the Comox Valley with a new 45,000 square foot store at Driftwood Mall.
Founding partner Ken Schley says, “We’re very excited to expand our unique brand of grocery retailing to the residents of Courtenay and surrounding communities. We have received many requests for a more accessible choice in food stores to those residents, including Cumberland and Royston shoppers.
“We will have all of the same features available to shoppers that has made our Comox store an award-winning shopping destination.” 
Marketing director Rob MacKay says that plans call for the store to open sometime this fall although no specific date has been set. He notes that the Driftwood Mall store will be modelled after the Powell River store that opened earlier this year, which in turn was modelled on the Qualicum Beach store that was rebuilt in 2004 after the original store burned down.
The Qualicum Beach store with its innovative layout is often an eye-opening experience for people new to the area, MacKay says.
“The owners and managers have travelled a lot and they gathered ideas from all over Canada and the United States and worked to put it all together into a cohesive package.”
One of the things that makes Quality Foods stores unique is that local residents take tremendous pride and ownership, MacKay says.
“When residents have people come from out of town they say, ‘Let’s go down to the grocery store!’ And they get in there and their guests say, ‘Wow! I get it!’”
Quality Foods stores really are that special, MacKay says. Driftwood Mall will be Quality Foods 11th location in the mid Vancouver Island area.
“We provide a unique shopping experience,” MacKay says. “And that’s actually part of our mission statement – to provide unique and genuine customer experiences.”
He points out that people can get groceries anywhere. What keeps people coming back is the experience and excellent service combined with a beautiful layout and design that makes shopping interesting and fun.
The new store at Driftwood Mall will likely not be the last one, MacKay says. The store owners are always open to new opportunities and more chances to better serve their island community.
Quality Foods was recently named one of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies, for the second time. It first received the awarad in 2007.
 “This has been a very special award and a source of pride for everyone at Quality Foods,” says Schley. “Our managers have gained a certain confidence, and many people in the stores feel as though they are part of a bigger picture, contributing to a common success.
www.qualityfoods.com

]]> Thu, 09 Jul 2009 16:19:19 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=664 Harbour Air opens waterfront restaurant

By Goody Niosi Writer

VICTORIA – The Flying Otter Grill has landed.
Harbour Air has opened The Flying Otter Grill at their floating seaplane terminal in Victoria’s Inner Harbour.
“We are very excited to offer both our passengers as well as the Greater Victoria community another venue to enjoy,” said Randy Wright, Harbour Air’s Senior Vice President. 
A sister company to the popular Flying Beaver Bar and Grill on the Fraser River at the Harbour Air Richmond Terminal, The Flying Otter will offer a similar waterfront atmosphere with indoor and outdoor dining, as well as quality pub-style food with a west coast flare, to go along with a wide selection of beers on tap.
“For years, The Flying Beaver has been well known for its successful formula of attracting local residents, business clients, tourists as well as aviation enthusiasts,” says Wright. “Opening this new waterfront restaurant in Victoria is a great opportunity for us to extend this unique venture to Vancouver Island.”
The Flying Otter Grill will be open for breakfast every morning and cater to both the lunch and dinner crowd. Passengers on Harbour Air will be offered preferred pricing for food purchases for meals pre and post flights.
Harbour Air Ltd. is based in Richmond, and has been in business since 1982.
Services include regularly scheduled flights connecting Vancouver Island and the Mainland as well as scenic tours and private charters.
In 1982, the company began with two small seaplanes and a plan to service British Columbia’s forest industry, Harbour Air Ltd. was founded.
With growing success, Harbour Air expanded to provide scheduled services between Vancouver, the Gulf Islands, and Vancouver Island. The company’s CEO and founder is Greg McDougall, an avid outdoor adventurist who is still very involved with the organization today.
In 2007, Harbour Air began an operation in Malta, offering scheduled service to Gozo, and scenic adventure tours using a Turbine Single Otter. The company also purchased Aeroflite, now operated as Aeroflite International Services Ltd., a third-party maintenance outfit in Richmond, to offer line and overhaul maintenance for both the company’s aircraft, as well as to service outside clients and operators.
Recently, Harbour Air was the first airline in North America to become completely carbon neutral, by purchasing high quality carbon offsets to mitigate all flight and corporate operations.
The company is currently funding energy efficiency projects on the Lower Mainland, including the Delta View Life Enrichment Centre, a palliative care hospice that uses Ground Source Heat Pumps as apposed to traditional energy methods, eliminating the equivalent emissions of 110 cars from the road each year. The company is actively working with Vancouver-based Offsetters to find new projects centered around Vancouver Island and in other communities the company services.
Today, with over 25 years in service, and more than 30 aircraft, Harbour Air has become the largest all-seaplane company in the world. Regional services include regularly scheduled flights that connect Vancouver, Victoria, Nanaimo, Richmond, Langley and the Gulf Islands.
The company offers a wide range of flightseeing tours departing both downtown Victoria and Vancouver that will take you from the high towering peaks of the Olympic Mountains to the incredible rugged shorelines of Vancouver Island.
Private charters are also available to take you to anywhere you want to go in spectacular British Columbia. The company currently employs over 300 people during the high season, spread over five locations.
The company is currently looking at international opportunities overseas, and has been approached by investors in India, China, Ireland, and Nicaragua and is in negotiations with the Canary Islands.
Locally the company is reviewing possibilities for new regional routes and has looked at Comox, Seattle, and areas around the Fraser Valley.
www.harbourair.com

]]> Thu, 09 Jul 2009 16:17:23 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=663 Catalyst showdown:
Time for cities to blink

Mark MacDonald - Publisher

Catalyst Paper has filed a petition in B.C. Supreme Court to ask for a judicial review of property tax rates in three communities: North Cowichan, Campbell River and Port Alberni, with one to come: Powell River.
Their argument: They’re tired of paying industrial tax rates that are 10-20 times higher than residential tax rates in the communities they serve. This appears to be a last resort by Catalyst to have local politicians hear their cry for help. The company is bleeding red ink, and has for some time. Their very public appeal for relief has been largely ignored, unless one wants to count miniscule reductions as something close to what is needed in such dire circumstances.
Catalyst is supposed to be on the hook for $19.3 Million this year, a figure they have stated repeatedly that they have no intention of paying.
Interesting use of wording by the media and local politicians, accusing Catalyst of playing “hard ball” with the city by taking them to court to cut their taxes to reasonable levels. How about the word volley? They’re just returning the serve as the city holds a hard line on the excessive taxation. No, that’s not “hard ball” it’s looking after the taxpayers - voters - who vow to remember their house tax hikes the next time they go to the polls.
Which part of this equation is the municipalities not getting? The company is staggering, and many people believe they’re going to need to permanently close one, if not two, mills in the area. They’re no longer in a position to be the cash cow, milked incessantly to keep funds flowing into the city’s coffers. Don’t the politicians realize that once a mill shuts, those $80,000 jobs that pay mortgages and raise families are gone, too?
This time, it’s the cities’ turn to blink on this game of chicken.
New NDP Farm Teams?
Typically, the NDP re-builds and re-stocks its candidates for provincial and federal politics through local school boards and city councils. Check out the resumes of MLA’s: They more often than not contain years of civic service.
The NDP may have identified a new way to infiltrate government via raising the public profile of future candidates: Run for election to the Board of Director of the Chamber of Commerce Board.
Think about it: What better way to position oneself as a fiscal moderate, and business leader? Hiding in a Chamber Board. With a Chamber Directorship on their resume, it would be hard for voters to distinguish immediately that a particular candidate was NDP. That’s because NDP candidates usually have deep union roots, and the party’s policies are decidedly anti-business and development.
What to do if this looks like it might become a problem? Perhaps prior to elections, Chambers should ask point blank what a candidates’ political affiliations are. Pro-active Chambers have been ahead of the curve for years, anyway, recruiting high profile business people whose reputations make them popular ballot pics during elections. Get enough of the people you want, and believe have enough name recognition to get elected, and it simply wouldn’t be a problem getting progressive directors in place, no matter who ran against them.
Chambers need to pay attention to this, not for partisan political reasons, but to protect their mandate of furthering trade and commerce in their respective markets. There are Chambers which have been taken over by factions already, which has resulted in the Chamber not being the voice of all business, at all. And that voice is the best and most powerful thing that any Chamber has.

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:55:14 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=662
60 years for Hindle
• Hindle’s family owned and operated camera and stationery business has celebrated 60 years in business and in the same location.
• Randy Forbes, general manager of Coast Realty Group is pleased to appoint Dawn Adaszynski as managing broke of the Powell River Office. Dawn has been with the company for 22 years. She replaced Joe Mastrodonato who is retiring.
• Dealer Principal Felix Massullo was pleased to receive news that Massullo Motors will remain as a GM Canada vehicle dealership.
• Former Powell River Mayor Arnold Carlson, and ex owner of the Inn at Westview, passed away recently at the age of 83.

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:53:26 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=661
Larkam joins Royal LePage
• Evan Larkam has joined the team at Royal LePage Advance Realty.
• Though Barrie Brown Pontiac Buick GMC won’t be selling GM, Brown determines he is not done in the auto industry and is planning to keep operations going albeit in a new direction.
• Jullen is back at Spot Light hair studio in Merecroft Village.
• RISS has opened Bellords Barber Shop in Tyee Plaza.
•  Campbell River Chamber of Commerce celebrated 2009 Business Awards of Distinction. Micro Business of the Year went to Stonehouse Teas owned and operated by Tanya Hofer; Small business to Rehabilitation in Motion: Intermediate Business to Chan Nowosad Boates; Large Business to Quality Foods; Family Friendly Business to Rehabilitation in Motion; Young entrepreneur to Brett Giese of Crowne Pacific Homes and Candice Martel of Edem Street Spa.

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:52:42 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=660
Hawkins on BC Board
• Dianne Hawkins, Executive Director of the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce and BC Chamber Executive representative, was named to the B.C. Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for 2009-10 at the recent AGM In Prince Rupert.
• Walter and Sandra Moses, founders/owners of Ablaze MetalArt, are the recipients of this year’s Home-Based Business Assocation Business Inspiration Award.  
•  Kathy McIntyre, owner of Classic Printing, notes the company has recently acquired a state of the art Ryobi 3404E-DI Digital Offset Press enabling them to offer high quantities, and extremely high quality, at a competitive price.
• Ian Heselgrave has been appointed as Acting CEO of the Comox Airport until a replacement has been secured.
• WestJet has announced that it will fly from Comox to Puerto Vallarta as part of its winter schedule. The brand new seasonal non-stop service will begin in November.
•  A permit has been approved for City Suds Carwash to change a self-serve car wash to a touchless drive-thru wash bay.
• Cockeyed Optical on 4th street had its first anniversary celebration.
• Tod English, regional director of the Central Vancouver Island Region Office for Investors Group welcomes Kimberly Nixon as a consultant in the Courtenay office.
• South Hollow Art Studio and Gallery, specializing in artwork from the Comox Valley, West Coast and garden images just had it first birthday. 
• Roots the Salon is pleased to welcome Shihoko Funakuro who hails from Japan with more than 20 years experience in the fashion and style industry.
•  Lacy is now at the new Cliffe Ave Dog Spaw located in the Courtenay Veterinary Clinic.
• Candice and Rob of Shades Window Coverings had their first anniversary celebration. They offer a complete mobile service that brings the showroom to your home.
• Beaufort Vineyard and Estate Winery won gold in the All Canadian Wine Championship for their 2008 Gold Panacea. Co-owners Susan and Jeff Vanermolen were thrilled.
• The Old House Restaurant welcomes everyone to join them in celebrating 35 year in the Valley.
• Comox Valley Orthopedics is moving. Dr. K. Sundby and Dr. T. Woods will be at their new address 1729B Comox Ave in the former Comox Library.

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:51:57 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=659
Norwoods in Ucluelet
• Norwoods at 1714 Peninsula is Ucluelet’s newest eatery. They are open for lunch and dinner.
• The Green Room Garden Centre is now open at 1816 Peninsula Road. They carry plants, trees, soil and bark mulch.
•  Two new surf shops have opened. Relic Surf Shop in the back of Tula clothing store, co-owned by Nicole Bray and Bill Fend is the owner of the Long Beach Surf shop. Bill opened his second store in Ucluelet.

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:51:17 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=658
30 years at Beaver Creek
• Mike and Arlene See celebrated their 30th year of family ownership of the Beaver Creek Market.
• Alberni Golf Club on Cherry Creek Road marked its 80th anniversary.
• Pescadores Bistro at 5093 Johnston Road is now open 7 days a week.
• Congratulations to Rainbow Lanes for 50 years of bowling in Port Alberni.
• Stephen Ansley and Janet Hopper-Ansley have set up shop in the Harbour Quay with their new jet boat  tour  business. They offer scenic and speedy tours Tofino to Port Alberni.
• A & A Carpets Floors First on Argyle Street had their 34th birthday.
• Kudos to Louise Pearson, owner and operator of Finishing Touches in receiving the Excellence in Customer Service Award from the Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce. This is her 30th year in business.
• Christina of Clip 21 Hair Studio is back from maternity leave and welcomes all her customers to come and see her.
• Finishing Touches celebrate 30 year of excellence in business.

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:50:37 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=657
New luxury resort coming
• A $35-million luxury resort is underway, being built by David Steele and Pat Delesalle. Completion is set for December.
•  Little Qualicum Cheeseworks is in discussion with the Milk Marketing Board about starting an organic milk processing plant. It would be the first of its kind on Vancouver Island.
•  MoJo’s Home Care & Bathing Program is now open with certified care aides. They can be reached at 250-927-3670.
•  Stylist Emily Twigge, formerly of Chez Sabine, has joined the Studio Salon team located in Bowser.
•  Arrowsmith Wine Shoppe is celebrating its 10th anniversary.
•  Melody’s Shear Attitude had its grand opening. They offer hair design, tanning and beauty consulting and are located on 1-692 Beach Road.
•  Ann Buchanan, of Parksville Insurance is the contact for Oceanside ROI (Return on Investment) business  networking group. She can be reached at 250-248-5784.

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:49:55 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=656
Builder sailing to Hawaii
• Greg Constable of Island Westcoast Developments is going on the adventure of a lifetime. He’ll be the skipper of Narrow Escape Plan B, a 40 foot sailboat that will be competing in the Trans Pacific Yacht Race starting July 2 from Long Beach, California to Diamond Head, Waikiki, Hawaii. Joining him on his crew members will be Doug Backhouse, Roscoe Cutler Band Webster Kimmerly. The race is expected to take 9-10 days.
• Experienced stylists at the new Salon D Boutique Hair Salon on 166 Selby Street, welcome clients to visit them for any hair care needs.
• Country Club Centre’s Maycock Eye Care store celebrates their 60th year in business. The location features optometrist Dr. Jesse Petreman.
• Three graduates from Vancouver Island University are congratulated upon receiving their honorary degrees: Dr. Richard Beamish achieved his Honorary Doctor of Science, Dr. Roy L. Taylor received a Honorary Doctor of Science, and Rick Hansen received his Honorary Doctor of Laws.
• June 1 marked the grand opening of WestCoast Shutters, Blinds, and Closets at #2 - 6332 Metral Drive.
• Shamsun Niazi has opened up a brand new cat hotel on 1704 Fry Road. Kitty Korners offers a lounge with feline entertainment and individual condos.
• The Nanaimo Conference Centre now features an IRIS eye care centre, which celebrates their grand opening June 6th.
• Gone Fishin’ celebrates their 8th year in business providing outdoor equipment to customers.
• The professional team at DTZ Barnicke welcomes Ian Geddes to their 201-155 Skinner Street location.
• Christopher Tarala has achieved Top Sales for the month of May at Wheaton GM, on 2375 Hayes Road.
• Now in their 40th year of service to the community, Tom Lee Music welcomes clients to visit them at 6894 Island Highway North.
• Lisa Trimmer and Dave Baker have developed a new business advisor/chartered accountant firm at #8-4800 Island Highway North.
• Watkins Event Decor is a brand new business by Stephanie Watkins, which offers wedding and event rentals and decorations. The business operates out of Stephanie’s home at 89 Lenwood Road.
• Bubble Tea Stars, owned by Alex Doan, is found at Unit B 123 Commercial Street and offers a variety of Vietnamese specialty foods.
• The 2009 National Image
Continued on Page 57
Continued From Page 55
Competition of the Professional Photographers of Canada  in Regina saw Lance Sullivan, of Concept Photography have two images accepted and exhibited in the National Image Competition.
• Mike Kleywegt, a CNC Machinist trained by Nanaimo manufacturer, VMAC, won the silver medal at the 15th Canadian Skills Competition 2009 in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. Kleywegt, who joined VMAC as a co-op student, won the gold medal in the CNC Machining category at the B.C. Skills Canada competition recently, qualifying to compete in the national competition.
• Rhondda Sellars is now the Marketing Coordinator for Wexford Creek on 10th Street, a new Seniors Housing facility, with both Complex Care and Independent and Assisted Living Suites.
• President Rob MacCallum notes the Canadian Home Builders Association - Central Vancouver Island has moved its offices to 170 Wallace Street.
• James Kungel, CA has been promoted to Senior Tax Manager in Meyers Norris Penny’s Nanaimo office.
• Russ Shaw has been appointed manager of the new RONA store that is opening June 8 in Chase River, at Island Highway South and Maki Road
• Opening soon in Nanaimo North Town Centre is Everything for a Dollar.
• Christina Maynard, Media Paul Dodds.

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:48:44 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=655 Kennedy is new president
• Chemainus & District Chamber of Commerce new president is Mona Kennedy of the Dancing Bean Cafe & General Store.
• Take 5 Publications has moved to their old location at 622 First Avenue.  

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:47:52 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=654
Tillie in as president
• John Tillie, an associate broker at Re/MAX of Duncan, has been elected president of the British Columbia Real Estate Association.
• Christina Tipton, CA has been promoted to Tax Manager and Baljeet Basi, CA has been promoted to Assurance Manager in MNP’s Duncan office.
• Island Savings has won an Achievement in Marketing Excellence (AIME) award and two Achievement in Marketing (AIM) awards at the recent MACU awards gala in Quebec City. TIsland Savings recently hosted the grand opening celebration of its 14th branch at the new Cowichan Commons development just north of Duncan. Louisa Finn is the new Vice President, Marketing and Community Investment.
• The Island Corridor Foundation announced that Graham Bruce has been selected as the new executive director for the Foundation.  The Foundation is the owner of the E&N Rail corridor running from Victoria to Courtenay and Parksville to Port Alberni.
• Previous administrator Frank Raimondo is back helping the Cowichan Valley Regional District with a special project. Warren Jones is the current administrator.
• Pemberton Holmes congratulated its top producers for the month of April: Karrie Brennan, Dan Johnson and Richard Hughes.
• Canadian Tire has opened at their new location at Cowichan Commons. According to owner/operator Bob Bridget, the new store is twice the size of the old location with 10 service bays.
• Sahtlam Auto Detailing has opened at 4976 Cowichan lake Road.
• Becky McLeod joins the staff at Mint Hair Design.
• Dwight International School will open their doors in August at 2371 East Shawnigan Lake Road.
• Dr. Gordon Levin has taken over from Dr. Eric Qualley who has since retired after many years of practice.
Rocky Creek Winery won 3 medals at the All Canadian Wine Championships. A total of 1071 wines from 173 wineries entered from across the country. They won gold for their Pinot Gris 2008, silver for Pinot Noir 2007 and bronze for Robin’s Rose 2008.

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:47:12 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=653 Forest chief earns degree
• John Borden, chief scientific officer for Contech Enterprises, has received an honorary degree from the University of Northern British Columbia as part of the school’s annual convocation ceremony on May 29.  Borden, a forest entomologist, was recognized for his decades of service to B.C.’s forestry professionals.
• Neverblue Media is moving to a new office, at Suite 201-1221 Broad Street in Victoria.
• ASL Environmental Sciences Inc. has merged with G.A. Borstad Associates Ltd. The environmental technology firms are based in Sidney.
• Lane Furnishings held their grand opening at 758 Cloverdale Avenue recently.
• Jeffrey and Chris Wilson have opened Saanich Roadhouse Bar & Grill at the corner of West Saanich and Prospect Lake roads in the former site of El Rancho Mexican restaurant.
• Royal Roads University has appointed Cyndi McLeod as vice-president (marketing, recruitment and business development). McLeod comes to Royal Roads after 10 years at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops.
• Congratulations to Church and State Winery owner Kim Pullen for having their 2006 Quintessential wine named top wine of the year at the 2009 All-Canadian Wine Championships in Windsor, Ontario.
• Gerald Chang is now the chief financial officer at ImmunoPrecise Antibodies Ltd. in the Vancouver Island Technoogy Park.
• Jawl Properties has won a Power Smart Excellence Award for demonstrating leadership in energy conservation. BC Hydro made the announcement at a ceremony in Vancouver in May that also recognized 11 other winners from across B.C.
• DFH Real Estate Ltd. welcomes Margot Wilson to their team.
• Business Examiner publisher Mark MacDonald is pleased to announce that Martin Hunter has joined the newspaper as its new Manager/Editor. Martin returns to work for the Business Examiner after several years with Accutemp and Johnson Controls.
• Congratulations to Tom Lee Music, for celebrating its 40th year in business in Canada. They have a store in Langford at Millstream Village.
• Tej Wirk has joined Mullin DeMeo as an associate lawyer.
• Coast Mountain Sports is now open in the former A&B Sound building on Yates Street.
• Access Panel Solutions has moved to a new facility in the Esquimalt Industrial Park, at 2-835 Devonshire Road. The plan, which makes and distributes architectural access doors, moved from Quantico, Virginia. Their brand name is Bauco Products Inc.
• Rob Cruickshank, formerly of Telus, is now chairman of Carmanah Technologies Corp. He takes over from David Green who will remain on the board of directors.
• Home Outfitters celebrated its grand opening in Tillicum Mall. It replaces Linens N Things which was one of 500 stores to be closed by the U.S. retailer.
• Amos and Andes, a store specializing in natural fibre clothing has moved to 1037 Fort from 795 Fort.
• Nicolas Loebel, chief technology officer of Ondine Biopharma Corp of Vancouver, is a new board of director for ESI Environmental Sensors Inc. He takes over from Edwin Mitchell.
• Copeland Communications ad agency has promoted Doug Brown to managing director. They service B.C. Ferries.
 • Annette Quan is joining Manulife Securities Inc. in the Munro Center, after her time with BMO Bank of Montreal main branch.
• After 11 years as marketing manager of Inn at Laurel Point, Wendy Floyd has begun an online business of making custom swimwear. Her business is Sisterfloyd Designs. She has about 25 different designs and the prices ranges from $39 to $129.
• Five-star Brentwood Bay Lodge & Spa has finished the construction of a 1,200 square foot meeting space. They hope to attract corporate functions, business meetings and social events.
• Sooke Harbour House owners, Sinclair and Frederique Philip, have won best Vancouver Island restaurant for the 20th year in a row.
• Tony Scott, co-owner of Mother Computers and Lowell Buscher of Softwind Systems Inc have joined forces to provide computer support for small to medium sized businesses.
• Uomo Modern Barber has launched a line of hair and body care products  ,called the OM line, made from natural ingredients. The shop is run by Steven and Simona Bailey.
• Geoff Courtnall, former NHLer has stepped down as head coach of the Victoria Grizzlies.
• KMS Tools and Equipment Ltd has opened two new locations. One in Victoria and one in Campbell River. Ryan Hare, operations manager, reported the company had take over House of Tools in both locations as well as some others in B.C..
• Jeff and Micki Keenliside have just opened Lucy’s in Fernwood Square across from the Belfry Theatre. Micki, the chef, has previous experience with Tofino’s Shelter, Cafe Brio and Apres in Whistler to name a few.
•  Scott Quinney, former corporate revenue manager of Coast Hotel’s & Resorts is now general manager of Coast Victoria Harbourside Hotel & Marina.
• Bone Creative is an ad agency aimed at helping businesses stay afloat during difficult economic times. Rod Grainger and Jason Dauphinee previous of the Malahat Group, Hugh Ruthven of DDB and Shon Taylor of Catapult Images Studio have banded together and put together the business. They are at 1322 Broad Street.

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:46:22 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=652 People spending more at Shoppers
VICTORIA - According to Shoppers Drug Mart Corp. consumer spending is on the rise.  Jurgen Schreiber, chief executive  reported that the amount of money spend per basket on average is up considerably.
The recent trend is for buyers to take fewer shopping trips but this isn’t showing true for Shoppers Drug Mart. Schreiber credits an increase in-store promotions to their success.
Executives predict the pharmacy end of the business will continue to increase from 20.8 per cent to 25.1 per cent by 2011. Forty per cent of those buying prescriptions are over 60.

Building permits taking off
VICTORIA - Greater Victoria building permit increases can be credited to hospital construction and retail and office improvements.  March showed growth of 33.4 per cent, $159.7 Million compared to $119.7 in February according to Statistics Canada. 
Royal Jubilee Hospital received a permit for patient care expansion for more than $129 Million, while in February Uptown shopping centre was issued a $92 Million permit. A $299 Million permit is expected soon for a construction project at CFB Esquimalt.
There was an increase of 23.5 per cent across Canada in March in building permits to $4.5 Billion. This was the first increase in 5 months.

Massive ships arrive at Ogden
VICTORIA - Ogden Point harboured two super-sized cruise ships bringing tourists and ultimately shoppers to the city.
Rain somewhat dampened their spirits and made for a less successful shopping day than anticipated. The ships were originally bound for Mexico but rerouted over concern for the swine flu.
They attracted many locals who came to watch the massive structures pull into the Point. Many of the tourists made their way to Butchart Gardens while others did some shopping downtown.


Telus year was profitable
Telus Corporation made $322-Million in profits the first quarter of 2009 in spite of the shaky wireless subscription results.
Last year showed $292-Million in profits during the same period. The share earnings were up from $0.90 to $1.01.
Growth was caused by wireless voice revenue and wireline data revenue. The month of April brought 48,000 new cellphone subscribers compared to 88,000 the same time last year.
The average use per customer went from $61.88 to $58.39.

Colwood tower to go ahead
VICTORIA - The tallest tower in Colwood will be build in spite of the death of the head of the family operated company.
Leslie Mitton of Leston Holdings, passed away at age 64 from cancer. The company received approval for the 29-storey condominium in 2006 and will continue the venture as soon as the local economy shows some improvement.
The estimated development costs for the 1945 Sooke Road site have increased to $100 Million from the originally planned $90 Million. The basic design will not change.
The exterior will be glass and exposed concrete and the first four storey’s will be of granite.

Arbutus RV short in bid
VICTORIA - Arbutus RV lost its $1.8 Million bid for the bankrupt travel trailer manufacturing plant in La Grande, Ore. The plant was being sold by Fleetwood Enterprises.
The winning bid was $2.05-Million from Northwood Manufacturing another maker of travel trailers and also of La Grande.
Many leaders in the industry have file for bankruptcy protection or reported large losses. Arbutus’ owner, Craig Little, says his company is surviving during this time because of their track record and the retired population on the Island. He has owned the company for 21 years.

Decent profit for Tim Horton’s
VICTORIA - Tim Hortons showed a 7.5% profit despite current economic conditions  with results in line with projections. The U.S. market also showed improvement where it had previously demonstrated little enthusiasm.
First quarter profits were $66.4 Million which translated into 37 cents a share and up from 33 cents the previous year. The U.S. showed an increase of 3.2 per cent, up one per cent from last year.
Horton’s opened 20 new stores in Canada and eight in the U.S. down from 100 in total last year.

Carmanah sells to Coast Guard
VICTORIA - The United States Coast Guard (USCG) has placed an order for hundreds of solar-LED marine lanterns from Carmanah Technologies.
Valued at approximately $600,000, this latest shipment of 701-5 and 704-5 lanterns will replace older incandescent lanterns throughout the region, while providing an additional level of safety and security for marine traffic and Gulf Coast communities during the hurricane season.

Hazpro offers asbestos service
VICTORIA - Local entrepreneurs have launched Hazpro Environmental to provide safe and affordable asbestos, vermiculite and mold abatement services to the residential and small business sector of Vancouver Island.
The company launch has been met with huge success in a short period.
www.hazpro.org

Real estate market stronger
VICTORIA - The Greater Victoria area housing market gained additional strength in May with a significant increase in sales along with firm prices.
A total of 879 homes and other properties sold in May through the Victoria Real Estate Board’s Multiple Listing Service (MLS), up 17 per cent from the 747 sales in April and up 14 per cent compared to the 770 sales in May of last year. Prices for single family homes and condominiums were up slightly while townhome prices showed little change.
Victoria Real Estate Board President Chris Markham says there is every indication the rebound in the market will continue in the months ahead.
“Sales were significantly higher last month than a year ago and prices appear to be strengthening in key sectors,” he says.
Markham noted that the number of properties available for sale dropped in May. In addition, continuing attractive interest rates and growing consumer confidence are helping to fuel activity which is particularly strong in the mid-price range.
“Over half of the single family homes sold last month were priced between $400,000 and $600,000,” Markham says.
There were 33 sales of single family homes over $1 Million including six on the Gulf Islands. There were 3,789 properties available for sale at the end of May, down 13 per cent from the 4,332 properties available in the same month a year ago.
The average price for single family homes sold in Greater Victoria in May was $573,442, up from $550,736 in April. The median price also rose to $525,000. The six-month average was $550,756. The overall average price for condominiums was $306,971 in May, up from $292,252 in April.
The average for the last six months was $292,766. The median price for condominiums rose in May to $279,500.

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:45:07 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=651
MISTIC sets date for tech awards
NANAIMO - Mid-Island Science, Technology & Innovation Council says 4th annual Science, Technology & Innovation Awards and Tradeshow will be held during National Technology Week on November 5.
The inaugral MISTIC Trade Show will follow the awards on November 6.
The MISTIC Science, Technology & Innovation Awards highlight and recognize the many knowledge-based businesses located in the Mid and North Vancouver Island including the Sunshine Coast. 
“The businesses and individuals have demonstrated passion, commitment, sound business practices and innovative thinking”, says Carolyn Tatton, Executive Director of MISTIC. 

Nanaimo wins for urban design
Nanaimo Daily News
NANAIMO - Nanaimo has the best urban design plan in the province, according to the Planning Institute of B.C., which recently selected the city’s strategy as the best in site planning and design.
The association of professional planners recognized the city’s efforts to reduce vehicle traffic and surface parking in its downtown while promoting pedestrian-friendly, high-density living. Members commended the designers for their 54-page, glossy-covered document that gives a clear and thorough explanation of the new guidelines and appeals to both professionals and the general public.
D’Ambrosio architecture and urbanism in Victoria consulted with other planners and community members in an effort to devise a strategy to transform 70% of downtown space into modern urban homes, shops and offices. From the condos along Front Street to a new vision for the single-storey buildings along Terminal Avenue, Frank D’Ambrosio and his team returned to the city’s original plan of 1891, and created a sustainable vision for the future.

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:43:06 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=650
TimberWest sells land for ag project
Campbell River Courier Islander
CAMPBELL RIVER - Three Vancouver Island parcels of TimberWest Forest Corp. land have been sold for a total of $4 Million in B.C. buyers who plan to use them for their resources and for agriculture.
The largest, a 408-hectare site, is in the Qualicum area. An 85-hectare site called Cranberry Lane is in Campbell River, and a 20-hectare property called Shaw Creek is in North Cowichan.
These sales are among parcels of land that will go on he market annually for the next 25-plus years, said Stechen Bruyneel, communications director for Couverdon Real Estate, TimberWest’s real estate business. With 324,000 hectares, the forestry company is the largest holder of private land on the Island.

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:42:10 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=649 InSight works on Parksville plans
Oceanside Star
PARKSVILLE - InSight Developments held an open house in Parksville recently to hear what residents had to say about a proposed 26-acre community at 151 Despard Ave., adjacent to the downtown core.
“When we purchased the property, we inherited a set of existing plans that had already been approved by the municipality,” explains InSight President Doug Bromage. “We immediately realized we could improve on them. Our first goal was to go through the appropriate channels and consult with the mayor, city planners, businesses, homeowners, schools and interested organizations to get a sense of their needs. Then we met with the public to hear their input.
“Now we’ve incorporated this feedback into a variety of master plan concepts and development approaches for this new community, and we are ready to share these with the public.”

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:41:25 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=648
Mining award for Orca project
PORT McNEILL - Polaris Minerals Corporation’s subsidiary Orca Sand & Gravel Ltd., has been selected by the BC Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources as a recipient of the 2008 Stewart/O’Brian Safety Award for having zero lost time accidents during the year.
Herb Wilson, President and CEO, Polaris Minerals Corporation, said: “Safety is our number one priority, and we are pleased there were no lost time accidents during 2008, a year in which we doubled production at the Orca Quarry to 2.4 million tons. Staying safe requires vigilance, effort and investment at all levels of the organization, and receiving this award for a second time is a testament to the quality and professionalism of our team”.

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:40:36 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=647
The irrelevance of public opinion

Mark MacDonald - Publisher

Contrary to public opinion, not everyone’s opinion really counts. Or even matters.
We’ve just gone through yet another election, where the people have spoken, and made a decision about who is going to govern for the next four years. That decision is final.
But on the way to that decision, we’re left with trying to navigate a landslide of opinion data, knowing that “the truth is out there somewhere.” Following the polls - conducted by teams of experts, we’re told - has become confusing. The results are often so diometrically opposed, that one must wonder if the polls were even taken on the same planet.
I sometimes listen to talk radio, as I enjoy hearing a variety of opinions on various topics. I read letters to the editor. I’ve even checked out some internet blogs. But lately, I find myself increasingly tuning them out, as I ask myself some questions:
Who are these people? Where do they find the time to call in, or write? Are they speaking for themselves, or are they part of an organized, behind-the-scenes effort to get a message out? Then there’s the fact that many of the viewpoints are simply “out there”, leaving us with good reason to be thankful they’re not in a position to actually do the things they say.
The fact of the matter is, people who are actually doing something are too busy working to take the time to call in or sit down to jot down their thoughts. In most cases, the doers are busy doing, as in: Those who can, do. Those who do not, criticize.
This is so evident in the realm of “public” hearings. Developers have learned the hard way that in order to get their project through public hearings, they need to orchestrate efforts to get their own supporters to stand up and speak up. It has become necessary, simply to counterbalance the inevitable negativity raised by groups who are opposed to virtually everything, and seem to make a career of attending such public forums.
Public hearings are important, largely because politicians and bureaucrats who make decisions concerning the projects are swayed by them. Unfortunately, these decision makers take the easy way out and view the few, loud voices of naysayers as legitimate gauges of the public opinion, as opposed to simply a sample.
For that reason alone, the information gathered at public hearings needs to be taken into account. As a good friend once told me: You should always listen to your enemies - because they will tell you things your friends won’t tell you, because they’re afraid of hurting your feelings. There will be some good information gleaned from the process. If there is a recurring theme unveiled in your market research, we need to take heed.
In regards to business, what is important, really, is what’s important to your customers, the ones who have made it their custom to frequent your establishment and invest. And the ones who will in the future. Not the ones who stand on the fringe and tempt you by saying “If you change this, I’ll buy. . .” And don’t if you do.
Public opinion is important. But how important? And is that opinion “pure”, or even legitimate? I’m more and more inclined to believe that much of so-called “public opinion” is either not a true gauge of the public, or simply not valid, well thought out opinion.
Market research is much the same. From the information gathered, we need to determine a defined focus, concentrate on that, and cut out the clutter.
This is the bottom line: What do our customers - decision makers - want? Those who support what we do, and would buy from us if they had the opportunity. That’s really what’s relevant, and what we should focus on. The rest is just noise.

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 15:10:08 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=646 Tom Harris is busy changing gears

By Mark MacDonald - Publisher

NANAIMO - For Tom Harris, his business is all about family.
He grew up in his family’s automobile business, and started Tom Harris Chevrolet Oldsmobile Cadillac in 1983. His family helped grow a portfolio that grew to include several dealerships and Tom Harris Cellular.
Tom treats his staff and team members like family, and they took the recent news hard, that Harris recently sold his dealership at the corner of Bowen Road and the Island Highway to Wheaton GM.
In one way it was the end of an era. Yet in others, it is the beginning of a new one.
Harris has plenty to do, as the Tom Harris Auto Group is a going concern with Island Kia, Harris Mitsubishi and Christensen Mazda.
Oceanside Chevrolet in Parksville, run by son Mike Harris, the Dealer Principal, will add the Buick, GMC and Pontiac lines as part of the deal with Wheaton. And there are 21 Tom Harris Cellular stores on Vancouver Island, the lower mainland and Calgary, Alberta.
Still, the sale of the signature Tom Harris GM store is a big change for the patriarch, whose roots in the business go deep. Very deep.
Tom’s dad, Jack Harris, started selling Austin, Jaguar, Rolls Royce and Packard vehicles in Victoria for Plimley’s on Yates in 1949, the year Tom was born.
“Dad excelled at car sales, and he developed a big customer base right out of the gate,” recalls Tom. 
Jack Harris went on to sell Pontiac Buick vehicles, moving into management, and worked for Olson Motors Ford until 1964, when an opportunity came up in Nanaimo to operate a Rambler agency.
From 1964-67, Jack Harris sold Ramblers, Jeeps and Triumphs at 1050 North Terminal, adding a Toyota-Isuzu dealership at the corner of Crace and Nicol Street in 1965.
“He had a star sales person, Bill Hustler, who really  wanted to buy the dealership, so he sold it to him,” Tom recalls.
“My dad was a really good car guy, and he sold tons of cars at the Rambler dealership,” he notes. “He bought about 20, 1965 Pontiac convertibles from a lease company in Vancouver one time. I think everyone thought he was crazy, but they all got sold.”
Besides work and raising his family, Jack built boats and trailers as a hobby, “a stress reliever”, Tom says. An accomplished woodworker and welder, Jack had served an apprenticeship at Frank Beban Sr.’s blacksmith  shop before the war.
In 1966, Jack met Bun Dobson, who had built many of the railroad trestles on Vancouver Island and they became good friends. Dobson owned five and a half acres - which had been a chicken farm - at the end of Bowen Road, and they decided to construct a building for a new vehicle dealership.
It was five times larger than their old location, and had 12 service bays - as opposed to 3. Jack Harris had been approached by Ford, but settled on Chevrolet/Oldsmobile/Cadillac, purchasing the assets of General Auto Sales and moving the dealership to the new site in 1967, the year Tom graduated from NDSS.
With the new GM opportunity, Jack Harris resigned the other franchises and let them go.
“We spent 42 years on that site,” muses Tom. “Dad ran the dealership very successfully until 1982, when he fell victim to 20 per cent interest rates, and what I would call unscrupulous banking practices.”
At that time, dealerships were required to underwrite the financing of each vehicle,  (known as recourse financing) and when the economy soured and customers began turning in their keys and cancelling their leases, the bank closed in on the dealership, the de facto guarantor for each loan.
Tom tried to buy the dealership from his father, but “the bank got in the way”, forcing Jack Harris Chevrolet to close.
Tom worked feverishly behind the scenes towards getting the new Tom Harris Chevrolet up and running, in 1983, after only six months.
He was ready. Tom himself started washing cars, then worked his way up in the business.
Tom started selling vehicles for his father in 1969, becoming one of the youngest sales managers in the country in 1970, at age 21.
“There was a bit of apprehension at first, but the guys on the sales floor could see I knew what I was doing, and that helped,” recalls Tom.
“I believe it makes a difference to come up through the business,” he says. “The big thing is it allows you to relate to the other people in the business, and experience the challenges they face on a daily basis.”
When it came time to run his own operation, Tom was confident.
“I absolutely knew that no matter what, we could sell cars. As long as I didn’t have the same problems (with financing regulations) that my Dad had, I knew we’d do well.”
Along with partner Jim Gauthier from Winnipeg, Tom Harris opened his own dealership on June 3, 1983, mortgaging everything he owned to do so.
“That was a good day,“ says Tom. “Most of the people that worked for my Dad came back to work for us. We made money the first month, and never looked back.
“I was only 33, but it felt good because I’d always been confident that the dealership could sell cars, and that I could sell cars.”
By mid 1983, the recession that had started in 1981 had bottomed out, and the market began to tick upwards.
Cellular Calling
In 1987, opportunity knocked again.
“A lady from Cantel walked into our dealership to see if I was interested in buying a cellular telephone,” Tom says. “At that point, there was no cellular service on Vancouver Island, but I’d seen that technology earlier that year and it fascinated me.
“I asked the lady to explain to me how it worked as far as selling it,” he says, noting one phone cost $3,500. “There was more profit in the phone itself than there was in small cars at the time. I told her I’d rather be selling the phones than buying them from you.
“That’s how Tom Harris Cellular started,” he said, noting that Gord Gerlock was the first to sell the phones for him. “We moved cellular sales upstairs in the Chev building, and you had to walk up a huge staircase. And the business just started to grow.”
Today, with 10 stores on the Island, six in the lower mainland, four in Calgary and another to come in Squamish, Tom Harris Cellular is one of Telus Mobility’s largest dealers in Canada. Tom Harris Cellular employs over 100 people.
In 1999, Harris opened the Kia dealership in the former location of Westwood Power & Marine across from the GM dealership. That same year, Tom and his brother Ted bought Woodgrove Chev Olds in Parksville from Bill Taylor, who had been the original dealer since 1981. That dealership is now Oceanside Chevrolet Buick GMC Pontiac, and last year Tom and Mike bought Ted out.
In 2003, Howard Jeglum bought Joe Cunningham’s building on Bowen Road, which he had been leasing to Nanaimo Toyota (which had bought the Revelstoke building at the corner of Bowen and Kenworth),. Jeglum moved Christensen Mazda there. Harris opened Mitsubishi in the former Mazda location.
Then in 2007, Jeglum decided to sell Christensen Mazda, and Mike and Tom bought it.
The recent sale of Tom Harris GM to Wheaton had been in the works for a couple of years. The Pontiac, Buick and GMC have been added to Oceanside Chevrolet.
“We think that’s very good, because with the demographics in the area, the Buick product is very popular, and has a lot of appeal,” he says.
Countless Contributions
The Harris family has made a point of contributing to the communities they serve from a both a personal, and business perspective. Tom recently completed his term as a director of B.C. Ferries, but he has also served the Junior Chamber of Commerce, been chair of United Way, headed the Nanaimo Hospital Foundation, and spearheaded the campaign to build a new location for St. John’s Ambulance.
That’s besides the countless number of financial and sponsorship contributions the Harris Group has made to a wide variety of community and civic causes.
In 1971-72, Harris was involved in a group called the Joint Service Clubs Council, a collaborative effort that include the Jaycees, Rotary, Gyro, Kinsmen, Kiwanis and others and headed by Frank Crane to work together towards creating a community recreation centre.
The group created the vision and funded the cost of a referendum, when Nanaimo residents voted to build the Beban Park Recreation Centre, home to Nanaimo’s first indoor pool, Frank Crane Arena, and much later, Cliff McNabb Arena.
Family Ties
Tom’s father, Jack, died in 1983. His mother, Evelyn, although not directly involved in day-to-day operations, has been a true strength to the family.
“She never went to work in the dealership, but she was always involved,” says Tom. “My mother was here to help, and be a sounding board. As a result, she probably has more knowledge about the car business than anyone who is involved in a day to day basis.”
Tom and his wife Christine have five children, with the oldest and youngest involved in the business. Mike, the oldest, is Dealer Principal at Oceanside, while Tony, the youngest, is sales manager at Harris Mitsubishi. Elizabeth works in a Whistler art gallery, Cynthia is the head of the Silver Department at Southeby’s in London, England, and Stephanie is taking her master’s degree in journalism at the London School of Economics.
Mike’s wife Amanda has served as the Controller of Harris Mitsubishi and Island Kia for the past seven years, and has just gone on maternity leave.
A whole new generation of Harrises began on June 7, when Amanda and Mike welcomed Matthew Thomas Harris into the world.
Tom’s brother, Jack has been involved in the business since the beginning, and serves as the Chief Financial Officer for the Harris Group. Ted Harris now works as an independent used car wholesale broker, and Danny, the eldest brother, worked at the dealership as well.
“All four brothers found their way into the car business, including Danny, who passed away a year and a half ago,” says Tom.
And of course, there’s the staff, many of whom have been with the Harris Group for many years. John Hagar, for example, has been Tom’s right hand man for many years, and has been a big reason for the Nanaimo GM dealership’s successes.
“This really is a family business, and there’s a real family feeling amongst the staff,” he says.
www.tomharrisauto.ca

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 14:35:52 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=645
Second 18 holes open at Bear Mountain

By Mark MacDonald - Publisher

LANGFORD - Fore! Make that 36.
The Valley Course is now open at Bear Mountain Resort, the second 18-hole course at the renowned Jack Nicklaus layout.
The Valley Course officially opened with a gala reception May 31, the latest in a string of announcements at developer Len Barrie’s dream that was hatched in 2001.
“These 36 holes combined with its incredible land and seascapes is irresistible, and I expect Bear Mountain to become one of the most sought-after golf destinations on the continent,” says Barrie. “A world-class golfing experience for all to enjoy has always been at the centre of my vision for Bear Mountain from the outset, and has been a decade in the making.”
The Valley course meanders through forest, borders lakes, and traverses creeks and rivers throughout its 18 holes, and plays to par 71. Measuring 6,807 yards from the Golden Bear tees - around 400 yards shorter than its sibling, the Mountain Course, Valley is considered a ‘friendlier’ version of the original.
“It’s very playable,” says Barrie. “We’ve already had one guy shoot a 63, and one of the ladies shot a 90. They were very impressed.”
The first nine holes of the Valley course opened for play in August, 2008.
Barrie says next up for Bear Mountain is finishing the Nicklaus Academy next spring, and it’s onwards to full build-out of the 1,300 acre property. There are already 12,000 homes at Bear Mountain, but by the time all construction is completed, in 15-20 years, there could be 6,000 homes.
“We’re good for awhile,” says Barrie, adding the development is healthy due to “us having all of our major infrastructure in before the (financial) world blew up.”
The Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa, opened in June, 2006, is becoming one of the most sought-after golf destinations in the Americas.
Bear Mountain Resort unofficially started in the fall of 2001. Barrie owned a home that faced the third green of Royal Colwood Golf Club.
Seeking additional space and sunlight in his backyard, Barrie had a contractor cut down 28 trees he believed were on his property. The club disagreed and took Barrie to court, where he was forced to pay damages and find a new place for his family to play golf.
A close friend of Barrie’s suggested that he should build his own golf course. So he did.
Shortly thereafter, Barrie purchased the 1,300-acre parcel of land that is now Bear Mountain Resort. It wasn’t until after the property was purchased that a complete site investigation was undertaken and Barrie learned of the project’s potential.
Barrie originally envisioned a nice golf course with a clubhouse and a few homes around it. That vision has evolved into a lifestyle-based community with a total projected build-out value of $4 Billion with the potential for more than 6,000 residences.
Since the first sales launch in 2002, Bear Mountain Resort has had buyers coming from as far away as Germany and the Middle East. Pre-sales were in excess of $500 Million.
“Had I known what would lie ahead, I may not have tackled the project—my resolve to purchase the property rose purely out of naivety,” says Barrie. “One of the main reasons Bear Mountain Resort has been so successful is that I had no preconceived notions—no one told me ‘you can’t do this’. I simply didn’t know any better.”
Barrie played 184 games in the National Hockey League, and he has managed to attract other NHL investors to the property, including  former Calgary Flames Mike Vernon, former Florida Panther Joe Nieuwendyk, the new General Manager of the Dallas Stars, Rob Niedermayer of the Anaheim Ducks, Ray Whitney of the Carolina Hurricanes and Ryan Smyth of the Colorado Avalanche.
Barrie’s son, Tyson, scored the winning goal for the Kelowna Rockets in the Western Hockey League playoff final against the Calgary Hitmen, and is expected to be drafted in the upcoming NHL draft.
“He’s excited,” says Len, who is part-owner of the Tampa Bay Lightning. “He’s projected to go in the mid to late first or second round.”

]]> Tue, 16 Jun 2009 14:33:47 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=644 Dollar Store going to Centre

The Nanaimo North Town Centre will be getting a new Dollar Store soon.
• • •
Island West Coast Developments is currently developing Nanaimo’s first Platinum LEED building: their new home for their business, at the corner of Northfield and McCullough Road.
• • •
Warren Keller who was previously at Slegg Lumber in Lantzville, will be now with Rona in Chase River, which is expected to open June 18.
• • •
The old flour mill on Milton Street has been torn down and some plans are in place to develop the lot.
• • •
The Subway restaurant next to the Great Canadian Casino at Port Place Mall has plans to relocate, as their lease is up.
• • •
A new retail development is starting on Gabriola called Madronna Market Place.
• • •
Ken Connolly of Pheasant Hill Homes is the general contractor for the Neighborhood Church renovation/expansion.
• • •
L&E Excavating will be tearing down the Good Neighbors Thrift Store, where Sun Glo Lumber used to be located.
• • •
Rexall Drugs is planning a big expansion in the former Food Country location in Chase River.
• • •
Serious Coffee and Iris Optical are now located on Commercial Street under the Vancouver Island Conference Centre.
• • •
The Young Professionals of Nanaimo was officially ratified at its first Annual General Membership.
The YPN is a group of young business professionals of Nanaimo with over 60 members to date and growing.
Their last event was a social event with a dinner buffet followed by a Casino night at the Nanaimo Yacht Club. The group meets at least once a month for either a business meeting, a social meeting, or an educational meeting.
• • •
WildPlay Nanaimo is expanding into Whistler with a park opening there slated for this summer.
• • •
Vondella Mechanical is currently installing energy efficiency upgrades to the Vancouver Island Conference Centre.
• • •
Vancouver Island University has some major plans for the future on the table.
The plans include building a new road from the Third Street connector, upgrading some of the roads, increasing the full time residence, decreasing some of their existing buildings, and a new “Gathering Place” building.
The master plan is available on their website.
• • •
Dave Parkin is the new manager at the Re-Store for Habitat Humanity.
 • • •
Olympic Boat Sales on Stewart Avenue. has gone out of business. Dave Boxrud, the previous manager, is now Running Coast Performance Marine.
• • •
Tina Worsley, the owner of Tina’s Diner is opening up Bellezza Bath and Beauty at 45 Commercial Street.
They will sell all natural bath and beauty products with some produced in Canada. She expects to be open sometime in May.
• • •
Walter Anderson says ITC Computers has relocated to the new InSight Development, Hawthorne Corner, at Wakesiah and Jingle Pot Road.
Dan Morris is now working for ITC Computers.
• • •
Wayne Procter is purchasing the Parksville Husky Station.
• • •
Ortho Depot is opening at Port Place Mall.
• • •
The Bowen Road Farmers Market at Beban Park is open for business again.
• • •
Slegg Lumber in Nanaimo is now open on Sundays.
• • •
Jenny Ford – Cook Nook Kitchen and Gift is relocating to Country Club Centre. The expected opening is mid June.
• • •
Lance Sullivan notes that Concept Photography has relocated back to their original studios on St. Andrews Street from their downtown location on Commercial Street.
• • •
Benson Meadow Markets, formerly Shady Mile Market, is now open.
• • •
Dollarama is currently looking at relocating. Under consideration is either the former United Furniture Warehouse or the Petcetera building.
- Chris Cathers writes about business in Nanaimo. He can be contacted at chris@businessvi.ca

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 10:34:59 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=643
The irrelevance of public opinion

By Mark MacDonald - Publisher

Contrary to public opinion, not everyone’s opinion really counts. Or even matters.
We’ve just gone through yet another election, where the people have spoken, and made a decision about who is going to govern for the next four years. That decision is final.
But on the way to that decision, we’re left with trying to navigate a landslide of opinion data, knowing that “the truth is out there somewhere.” Following the polls - conducted by teams of experts, we’re told - has become confusing. The results are often so diometrically opposed, that one must wonder if the polls were even taken on the same planet.
I sometimes listen to talk radio, as I enjoy hearing a variety of opinions on various topics. I read letters to the editor. I’ve even checked out some internet blogs. But lately, I find myself increasingly tuning them out, as I ask myself some questions:
Who are these people? Where do they find the time to call in, or write? Are they speaking for themselves, or are they part of an organized, behind-the-scenes effort to get a message out? Then there’s the fact that many of the viewpoints are simply “out there”, leaving us with good reason to be thankful they’re not in a position to do actually do the things they say.
The fact of the matter is, people who are actually doing something are too busy working to take the time to call in or sit down to jot down their thoughts. In most cases, the doers are busy doing, as in: Those who can, do. Those who do not, criticize.
This is so evident in the realm of “public” hearings. Developers have learned the hard way that in order to get their project through public hearings, they need to orchestrate efforts to get their own supporters to stand up and speak up. It has become necessary, simply to counterbalance the inevitable negativity raised by groups who are opposed to virtually everything, and seem to make a career of attending such public forums.
Public hearings are important, largely because politicians and bureaucrats who make decisions concerning the projects are swayed by them. Unfortunately, these decision makers take the easy way out and view the few, loud voices of naysayers as legitimate gauges of the public opinion, as opposed to simply a sample.
For that reason alone, the information gathered at public hearings needs to be taken into account. As a good friend once told me: You should always listen to your enemies - because they will tell you things your friends won’t tell you, because they’re afraid of hurting your feelings. There will be some good information gleaned from the process. If there is a recurring theme unveiled in your market research, we need to take heed.
In regards to business, what is important, really, is what’s important to your customers, the ones who have made it their custom to frequent your establishment and invest. And the ones who will in the future. Not the ones who stand on the fringe and tempt you by saying “If you change this, I’ll buy. . .” And don’t if you do.
Public opinion is important. But how important? And is that opinion “pure”, or even legitimate? I’m more and more inclined to believe that much of so-called “public opinion” is either not a true gauge of the public, or simply not valid, well thought out opinion.
Market research is much the same. From the information gathered, we need to determine a defined focus, concentrate on that, and cut out the clutter.
This is the bottom line: What do our customers - decision makers - want? Those who support what we do, and would buy from us if they had the opportunity. That’s really what’s relevant, and what we should focus on. The rest is just noise.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 10:33:23 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=642 New owners of Zen Zero
• The Sequoia Springs Golf Club, owned by Barrie Brown, is now open to golfers after undergoing a renovation period.
• After changing locations, Harbour Light Marine Antiques can now be accessed at 460 11th Avenue.
• Jim Revenberg has acquired the Campbell River Storm Junior B Hockey team from former owners Mike Rushton and Mike Feeney.
• The staff at Royal LePage Advance Realty on 972 Shoppers Row, are pleased to welcome Beverley Wall to their real estate team.
• Esther Clausen is now a part of the Discovery Planet Child Centre early childhood education team, at 1260 Greenwood.
• At Barrie Brown GM on 2700 North Island Highway, Gerry Boyd wsas Salesman of the Month for April.
• The Feller Financial Group welcomes Danielle Flynn on to work with Life Insurance at their 102-500 South Dogwood Street address.
•  The North Island College now has Dr. Jan Lindsay, Vice President of Education at Douglas College, as their board president.
North Island
• Jonathan Lok, RFT, a Registered Forest Technologist with Strategic Forest Management Inc. in Port McNeill, has been elected to serve as President of the Association of B.C. Forest Professionals. Steve Lorrimer, RPF, of Ladysmith, has been elected as a councillor of the organization.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:40:13 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=641 More honors for Carlson
• Joyce Carlson, publisher of the Powell River Peak, was recently honored with a British Columbia Community Achievement Award for her dedication and volunteer work in the community and various organizations.
• The General Practice Services Committee has recognized Dr. Deb Hocking with a provincial leadership award, for her cooperation with the practice support program in the Powell River community.
• Options for Living is a new business started up by Wendy Pelton, which offers life coaching and counselling to clients. Wendy can be reached by dialing 604.485.4884.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:38:45 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=640
New owners of Zen Zero
• The Zen Zero smoothie bar has recently been purchased by Marussia and Kyla Nesling, Devinder Agnish, and Duston Gooding from former owners Alan Murray and Janette Murray-Wakelin.
• Dr. Kevin Jackson has taken over the dental practice of Dr. David Fraser in the Comox Valley.
• The Comox Centre Mall has finally reopened after an extensive renovation period, and now features a new section and outside restoration.
• Mark Howarth has joined Colin Greenwood as the co-owner of Greenwood’s Traditional Pies and Pastries.
• The Canadian Association of Disabled Skiers has awarded Mount Washington Alpine Resort with the title of Ski Area of the Year.
• Simon’s Cycles celebrates their 21st anniversary in business. They can be visited at #3-1841 Comox Avenue.
• The address of 1761 Comox Avenue now belongs to Duduza Bed & Bath store. The store recently held their grand opening and welcome customers to visit their location.
• The Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce has elected Linda Graceffo of Sparkling Graphics & Design, as a director of the board.
• A new wing named “Mountainside” has now opened up in the Best Western Westerly Hotel, which includes 36 new rooms totalling 144 rooms in the entire hotel.
• Kevin Niemi is the newest Mortgage Consultant at Verico Select Mortgage, located on #5-212 5th Street.
• Liz Tribe is pleased to note that Comox Centre Mall held its grand opening/re-opening April 17.
• Customers are invited to view the new Comox Valley Self Storage facility at 1566 Ryan Road East.
• Brian McLean Chevrolet has chosen Malinda Cottingham as their Salesperson of the Month in April.
• Robert Mulrooney, a financial advisor with Dundee Wealth Management in Courtenay, traveled to Omaha recently to attend the Annual General Meeting of the company that Warren Buffet heads, Berkshire Hathaway.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:37:47 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=639
Wheaton back at resort
• Former Long Beach Lodge Resort Executive Chef Rob Wheaton has recently returned to the resort as Director of food and beverage. Wheaton moves to the management side of the hospitality industry following a decade-long career as an executive chef at restaurants, including Shelter and Long Beach Lodge in Tofino, as well as at the Water Street Cafe and The Beach House at Dundarave Pier in Vancouver.
• Both Stormlight Outfitters on 390 Main Street, and Method Marine Supply on 380 Main Street, celebrate their 10th year in business to the Tofino area.
• The Ucluetian is now open to the public, featuring a 3 bedroom condo, commercial shop area, and retail space for rent.
• Celebrating it’s first anniversary of business, is the Ukee Baby early childhood clothing and accessories shop.
• The Tofino Long-Beach Chamber of Commerce has named their 2009 board of directors: Don Travers of Remote Passages Marine Excursions, Roland Arnet of Lagoon Island Mariculture, Douglas Wright of Tlaook Cultural Adventures, Warren Rudd of Tofino Natural Heritage Society, Krysta Demers with the MacKenzie Beach Resort, Ram Tumuluri of Cable Cove Inn, Jay Bowers of Pacific Surf School, Miche Milford with Affinity Guest House, and Naomi Carson of Tofino Tech.
• An Inspirational Leadership Award was presented to Angie and Cindy Dennis of the Duffin Cove Resort, on behalf of the Aboriginal Tourism of BC organization.
• Ucluelet’s Thornton Motel employee Jo Pedersen, has vacated her position with the motel to take up employment with RE/MAX Anchor Realty, Qualicum Beach.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:37:06 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=638
Oliver takes over at CT
• Jim Oliver is the new owner of Port Alberni’s Canadian Tire, which is now managed by Ken McCallum, a former employee from Jim’s last Canadian Tire venture in Alberta.
• The local gift and chocolate shop, Choice Chocolates, has been purchased by Denise Lange from former owner Chris Readshaw.
• Sean Parker, an advisor with Sun Life Financial at Parker Financial Services, has placed 39th in the country for work with insurance revenues and investments.
• A recycling depot specifically for metal is now available in the Alberni Valley at 4700 Tebo Avenue, called Ellice Recycle Ltd. The company branch is managed by Sukhdev Krishan.
• The West Island Woodlands Advisory Group were honored with a Chairman’s Award from the CSA Sustainable Forestry Management User Group.
• Double R Meats invites customers to celebrate their 19th anniversary serving the area.
• New salesman Dwight Nass is welcomed on to the staff at Arbutus RV & Marine Sales Ltd.
• Hetherington Industries Ltd. has opened up a branch of their environmental company in Port Alberni, at 4715 Roger Street.
• Multi-Max The Movie Store on 4805 Johnston Road, is into their 10th year providing the valley with entertainment.
• The Hupacasath Band has elected Shaunee Casavant, a member of the Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce council, as their Chief Counsellor.
• Christina Spence Proteau is the new Associate Counsel at Badovinac, Scoffield & Mosley law firm on 3290 Third Avenue.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:36:21 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=637
R.O.I. group is popular
• Oceanside R.O.I. (Return on Investment) Business Group is networking group that started in last fall. Knowing that businesses in Oceanside, when working together go father than those who work alone. Members believe that flexibility is important so membership guidelines suit today’s fast paced and usually very busy professionals. The group meets every Wednesday morning at 7 a.m. at Serious Coffee at #9 1209 Island Hwy. For more information call Ann Buchanan at 250-248-5084.
• The Business Works Self-Employment Program celebrates their first anniversary putting others into business.
• Smart Fitt Holistic Fitness trainer Sally Whibley and her daughter Marie, have started a hand made hula hoop business at the Errington Farmers Market.
• Hicks Financial announced that Stuart Kirk has joined the Hicks Financial team, says Grant Hicks, president of Hicks Financial. Also joining the Hicks Financial team in client service is Stuart’s wife, Louise Kirk. Grant and Stuart are Investment Funds advisors with Manulife Securities Investment Services Inc.
• The Parksville And District Chamber of Commerce welcomes their newly appointed board of directors: President - Ed Galenzoski, First Vice President - Gary Child, Second Vice President - Doug Riederer, Secretary/Treasurer - Keith Anderson, Directors - Wendy Sears, Rudi Widdershoven, Al Cameron, Arlene Sandeman-Allen, Shawna Broekhuizen, Bruce Cownden, Lisa Leger, and Penny McMordie.
• Oceanside Tourism is now in their 16th year of business serving the community. Janice Holden is now Manager of Membership and Administration, taking over from Dorothy Mansell, who moved to Toronto.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:34:23 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=636 Changes at tourism group
• Christina Maynard, Media Relations Coordinator in the Marketing Department of Tourism Vancouver Island, has decided to pursue other opportunities. Kara Booth, who has been in the Receptionist position, has been promoted to the Marketing Department as a Marketing Coordinator. With Booth’s departure as receptionist, Lindsay Szymanski, Distribution Coordinator, will take on additional responsibilities to include reception and information services and general administration.
• Oak Bay Bikes celebrates their third year of business, welcoming customers to visit their location of #2-5771 Turner Road.
• The City of Nanaimo has recognized Camela Tang for her involvement with the city’s arts and culture programs, with a Honour in Culture Award. Carmella Luvisotto was also honored with a Excellence in Culture Award for her musical education.
• The Board of Trustees for the Municipal Finance Authority of BC has welcomed on Joe Stanhope, chairman of the Regional District of Nanaimo.
• The Inn on Long Lake celebrates it’s 24 year old family owned heritage this year, welcoming visitors to stay with them at 4700 North Island Highway.
• High Rides Ltd. is a motorcycle training venture, newly located at 2253 Wilgress Road.
• Spring seasonal jewelry at Keller’s Jewellers Ltd. on 7180 Lantzville Road, is brand new and has been specially selected by Joe Keller, after he attended an Independent Jewellers Conference earlier in the year.
• WestCoast Shutters Blinds & Closets invites customers to see their new showroom, at #2, 6332 Metral Drive.
• Sun Life Financial’s Mark Manfredi is congratulated upon receiving the honored title of Member of the Year for the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce this year.
• Nanaimo seniors have a new care organization available to them as the Good Samaritan Wexford Creek is now open, making this the Good Samaritan Society’s newest branch.
• Kevin O’Byrne is welcomed to the team at Christensen Mazda, on 2525 Bowen Road, as their new manager.
• Thrifty Foods Nanaimo has made the decision to go plastic bag free as of July 22nd, offering cost-effective reusable bags for customer use.
• The Nanaimo Chrysler dealership on 4170 Wellington Road, welcomes two new sales consultants to their team: Dan Haylow and Leslie Zietsman.
• ScanDesigns is now in their 33rd year of business serving the community, at 1711 Bowen Road.
• The Wheaton GM sales team applauds Christopher Tarala for achieving Sales Person of the Month for March, at the 2375 Hayes Road dealership.
• Lisa Gravelle is pleased to present  The Bite Cafe on 508 - 6581 Aulds Road, which serves soups, salads, coffee and other refreshments to customers.
• The address of 78 Wharf Street now holds Boutique Mac, a small Apple Computers service and accessory store owned by Jason Belsey.
• Sartorial Boutique is a recently opened women’s clothing and accessories shop, located at 295 Wallace Street. The business is owned by Tashe Vitaly.
• The Art Oasis, run by Mike Fidgeon, offers art for all budgets and tastes at 43 Commercial Street.
• Belts and boots, shoes and bags, can all be found at Andrea Savard’s Shoefly Shoe Collections, a new venture on 4 Commercial Street.
• Oceanview Golf Resort and Spa is the new name for the Cable Bay project, headed by spokesman Roger McKinnon.
• After taking a job as the CEO of Hywel Dda Local Health Board in Wales, Howard Waldner has vacated his position of CEO and president of the Vancouver Island Health Authority.
• Kelly Frech is welcomed to the Sabo, Cross & Co. accountant firm, on #22 - 4800 North Island Highway.
• The Downtown Nanaimo Partnership Society has named city councillor Merv Unger as their new president.
• Bev Park has been appointed as the president for Couverdon, a real estate section of the TimberWest Forest Corp.
• Nanaimo’s newest radio station, CKAY FM, has been started up by Paul Nattall. The station is geared towards individuals aged 34-60, and puts forth various broadcasts such as local news and weather.
• CBC’s the Dragon’s Den show has accepted local seamstress Eleanor von Boetticher and her entrepreneurial idea to sell hand made Elvis costumes, made especially for impersonators.
• Nanaimo’s Molly Maid franchise has been purchased by Natasha and Paul Dodds.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:33:04 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=635
New directors at Chamber
• The 2009 board of directors has been announced for the Chemainus and District Chamber of Commerce as follows: Mona Kennedy of Dancing Bean Cafe & General Store - President, Emily Holmes from Flowering Tree Natural Spa - Vice President, Ingrid Rennblad - General Manager, and Directors - Ward Yeager of Yeager & Associates, Robyn Gerland of By the Beach Bed and Breakfast, Karen Lockhart of Meadowvale Farm Gourmet Foods, Kathy Delcourt from the Chemainus Theatre Festival, Shelley Rouse of Chemainus Valley Courier, Kimberley Knight of Island Savings, Peter Matthews of the Saltair Pub & Liquor Store.
• Home Hardware has opened their new location at 1010 Ludlow in Ladysmith.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:31:17 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=634
Changes at CA company
• Amidst changes taking places at Hayes Stewart Little & Company, Brock Campbell and Andrew Smith are welcomed on as chartered accountants, Dan Little has been presented with his FCA designation, and Janet Rowe has become a partner with the firm.
• Terence Fitzgerald of Spawn comics, has received the Distinguished Alumni Award from Vancouver Island University for excellence in his field.
• Benjamin Werbski is now a part of the sales team at Sutton Group - West Coast Realty.
• Pemberton Holmes congratulates Ken Janicki, Dan Johnson, and Kelli Anderson on achieving Top Sales for March. Michele Devost is welcomed on as a new realtor for the Pemberton Holmes team.
• Colin WIlkinson is the Top Salesman for April at BowMel Chrysler on 461 Trans Canada Highway. John Barger has joined the dealership’s sales team.
• RE/MAX Duncan/MillBay welcomes on Reena Parhar to their realty team, at 472 Trans Canada Highway.
• Poppy Fields Home & Garden Gifts are changing locations from their Whippletree Junction space, to their new store at the Duncan Foam & Futon building.
• Open again on 62 Kenneth Street, Nhatrang Maki Sushi is serving delicious sushi and Vietnamese dishes.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:18:38 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=633
Angus in as VIEA chair
• Sasha Angus, Economic Development Officer with the Greater Victoria Development Agency, has been named as the Chair of the Vancouver Island Economic Alliance for 2009 – 2010. Rick Roberts of Rick Roberts Consulting is Vice Chair, Don Hubbard of Lafarge Canada is Treasurer, Maureen Young of Coast Capital Savings is Executive Secretary and Russ Hellberg of Maglynn Holdings is Past Chair.
• Coast Capital Savings welcomes on Tracy Redies, former leader of HSBC bank Canada, as their chief executive replacing Lloyd Craig.
• BCAA Broadmead has opened their newly redone facility at #120-777 Royal Oak Drive.
• Jessica Vreeswijk has been appointed to Business Trends Quarterly’s ‘Green Enterprise’ panel. Vreeswijk is the founder of Terrabytes Consulting, a leading green information technology firm.
• Free consultations are offered at the recently opened Canadian Decompression & Pain Centers, located on 1825 Fort Street.
• Lane Home Furnishings welcomes customers to visit their new store at 758 Cloverdale Avenue.
• A Lee Valley Tools garden and tool location is now available for Colwood shoppers, open on  314 Wale Road. Bill Speed is the store manager.
• The City of Nanaimo’s spring commercial – “Amazing Nanaimo” won Victoria Producer Howard Harding an Honourable Mention Retail Commercial Award from the 2008 Television Bureau of Canada competition in the travel and tourism section.
• C.P (Ken) Rebel has joined Focus Engineering Geomatics Planning as their new Manager of Transportation Structures.
• Victoria local writer Ann Kelly has recently published a book entitled “Ready...Set...GOLF! An Essential Guide for Young Golfers”, in which she explains the fine points of the golf game for youth.
• A head professional has been put in place at the Bear Mountain Resort, as Tony Harris steps up to the plate.
• The BC Human Resources Management Association (BC HRMA) announced the finalists for the Rising Star Award and the list includes two HR professionals from Victoria. Meg Burrows, a hiring consultant with the BC Public Service Agency, and Ruth Mitchell, recruiter for Red Seal Recruiting Solutions Ltd. were announced as finalists for the prestigious industry recognition.
• Tanya Smith is welcomed on as the newest Business Growth Specialist for the CHEK News team.
• World renowned chef Andrew Dickinson has been employed by the Blue Crab Bar & Grill, a part of the Coast Victoria Harbourside Hotel and Marina.
• A petition to merge the companies of Coastal Community Credit Union and the Quadra Credit Union, has just been approved by the Financial Institutions Commission of B.C. The merge became official at the end of April.
• The Art Advisory Council for the Capital Regional District is pleased to have Arlene Carson and Marilyn Sing on their team.
• Billy’s Bistro is a brand new restaurant venture started by Billy Feltmate. The restaurant is located opposite Victoria City Hall, and offers refreshing seafood entrees to hungry customers.
• The Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Sara John Fowler will be the new CEO of Mount St. Mary Hospital effective May 19. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of British Columbia and a Graduate Certificate in Project Management from Royal Roads University.
• After 26 years serving the Royal Bank, Georgina Wong has vacated her position with the company to help manage the Don Mee Chinese Seafood Restaurant.
• The office of Lang Michener LLP welcome their newest lawyer Joan Young, who was previously a part of Heenan Blaikie LLP.
• Giving up her position with Market on Yates, Julia Santos is welcomed back as the main floral designer at Grower Direct Fresh Cut Flowers of Victoria.
• The Better Business Bureau of Vancouver Island has elected Columbia Fuels Inc.’s Peter Dunderdale as their new president.
• Waffles To Go is a brand new business venture started by Renaat Marchand, which offers fresh Belgian liege waffles to tourists and passers-by at the Inner Harbour.
• Daniel Jarvis has taken the position of chief financial officer for Concert Properties.
• Jordans welcomes Greg Holtz as their new floor manager, joining Jonathon de Vooght, the store’s furniture manager.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:17:55 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=632
Vecima signs deal with Telebec
VICTORIA - Vecima Networks Inc., a provider of equipment supporting broadband access to cable, wireless and telephony networks, has signed an agreement with Télébec, a member of the Bell Aliant Regional Communications group, to supply Broadband Wireless Internet base stations and customer premise equipment.
Vecima designed the Remote Rural Broadband System  to specifically meet Télébec’s needs throughout the Quebec region using radio spectrum recently made available by Industry Canada.
“We are seeing good strength in our wireless business, supported by this and other recent contract wins, and believe the growth will continue for our BWIN™, WiMAX and SDR radio platforms,” said Vecima Chief Executive and Chairman, Dr. Surinder Kumar. “

Conference looks at the region
VICTORIA - The Greater Victoria Development Agency hosted a regional economic summit for elected officials, featuring presentations from a number of industry representatives.
The summit was attended by eight mayors of the region with a ninth municipality represented by their deputy mayor, as well as the chair of the CRD
The summit provided a detailed snapshot of major industries in the region, their current challenges and primary growth opportunities, followed by a roundtable discussion between elected officials and industry.
“The summit was a great opportunity to bring together a representation of the majority of our political decision makers with the industry stakeholders to discuss our regional economy,” said Sasha Angus, Economic Development Officer. “I think that everyone left with a better understanding of our economy and were united in their concern of how we can address economic issues as a region.”
The summit ended with a strong show of support for the Greater Victoria Development Agency to continue in its leadership role on the regional economy.

Victoria real estate on the rise
VICTORIA - Sales of homes and other properties throughout Greater Victoria soared in April while prices remained stable with some modest fluctuations up and down, depending on the property type.
A total of 747 homes and other properties sold in April through the Victoria Real Estate Board’s Multiple Listing Service, up 24 per cent from the 602 sales in March. There were 768 sales in April of last year. Prices for single family homes showed some increase while condo and townhome prices were mixed.
The average price for single family homes sold in Greater Victoria last month was $550,736, up from $534,689 in March. The median price also rose to $515,000. The six-month average was $540,179. The overall average price for condominiums was $292,252 last month, virtually unchanged from $294,393 in March.
The average for the last six months was $285,848. The median price for condominiums rose in April to $273,950. The average price of all townhomes sold last month was $400,695 down slightly from $405,003 in March. The median price rose, however, to $390,000. The six month average was $399,826.
There were 3,861 properties available for sale at the end of April, virtually unchanged from the 3,859 properties available in the same month a year ago. There were also 3,859 properties available for sale at the end of March of this year.
MLS® sales last month included 421 single family homes, 204 condominiums, 74 townhomes and 11 manufactured homes.

Anacortes ferry gets reprieve
SIDNEY - Town of Sidney Mayor Larry Cross announced that the Washington State Legislature had voted to retain the Washington State Ferry Anacortes/San Juan Islands/Sidney service, on April 27. 
The Mayor noted that the successful Save Our Ferry campaign has involved a great number of individuals and organizations on both ends of the run and the decision to keep the service is a reflection of their commitment and energy.
Although Washington State Governor Christine Gregoire had announced last December her intention to cancel the ferry service to Sidney, both the State Legislature and Senate agreed with the argument that the run actually represents a net gain to the economies of the communities it serves and to the state in terms of spending multipliers and taxes. 

Golder works with first nation
VICTORIA - The team of Golder Associates Ltd., Scia’new (Beecher Bay) First Nation, and the Ts’ouke Nation is using sub-sea technology to map ancient fishing sites on the sea-bed in the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
The team is experimenting with side-scan sonar to see if it can detect the remains of reef-netting sites along the near shore between Becher Bay and Sooke Harbour.
“Reef-netting” is an indigenous method of capturing salmon unique to the Straits Salish. They were used only in the southern Strait of Georgia, eastern Strait of Juan de Fuca, and San Juan Islands to catch the annual Fraser River sockeye salmon run. Reef-nets have not been set in BC for over a century. 

BBB Torch Awards May 21
VICTORIA – The Better Business Bureau of Vancouver Island (BBB) announced the 2009 Torch Awards nominees during a special presentation at the Westin Bear Mountain Victoria Golf Resort & Spa.
This year’s Torch Awards event is a red carpet gala celebration May 21 at 6 p.m. in the Ballroom at the Bear Mountain resort.
‘A’ Channel reporter Astrid Braunschmidt and BBB President Peter Dunderdale of Columbia Fuels announced the 51 consumer nominated businesses for each of the 12 Torch Award categories.
Tickets are $125 (+GST) per seat. Price includes a four-course gourmet dinner and the awards gala presentation. To register call: 250.386.6348 ext 109. For more information about the Torch Awards visit vi.bbb.org.

More cruise ships for Victoria
VICTORIA - Two of the largest cruise ships to ever visit victoria were re-routed to the capital city in April.
The Carnival Splendor has put Victoria on its agenda, following Royal Caribbean’s Mariner of the Seas, which also announced that it was re-routing cruises from ports in Mexico. Worries over swine flu are sending large numbers of tourists to other destinations.
Chemistry Consulting Group partner Frank Bourree sees the arrival of the extra cruise ships as a windfall for Victoria.

Cruise ship refit will benefit
VICTORIA - The 18 deck tll Golden Princess, now in the Esquimalt Graving Dock, is the largest vessel to ever pull into the dock.
Weighing in at 108,000 tonnes, it is 290 metrres in length and almost 36 metres wide. The graving dock is 38 metres wide, so the vessel barely fits.

Barnett back in as OCEAN chair
VICTORIA - Brian Barnett, president and CEO of OCEAN Crewing Network Inc., was elected Chair of the OCEAN Industries BC for a second term.
The announcement was made at the group’s Annual General Meeting at the historic Union Club of British Columbia in April.
“People who depend on the Ocean and Marinespace economy for their living have needs for a focused effort to recruit people for work, the right combination of training and a common platform to promote their products and services,” said Barnett.
At the Metro Victoria Economic Summit with local Municipal leaders, OCEAN Industries BC called for Environmental Campaign organizations to consider a pause in their campaigns so that Industry and ENGO’s can determine how best to collaborate on the forthcoming Ocean Planning process, scheduled for part of the coast of British Columbia.
OCEAN CEO Patrick Marshall referred to the Memorandum of Understanding between Vancouver based Washington Marine Group and the British Columbia office of the World Wildlife Fund.
Elected to the board were Capt. Thomas A. Wood of Wood Marine in Powell River, Robert Beadell of Invicta Marine Marine Consultants of Victoria, Scott Lindsay of Seabridge Marine Services Ltd. of North Vancouver and Tracy Burgess, British Columbia Centre for Aquatic Health Science of Campbell River. Others on the leadership team are Diane Hewlett, Manager, District of Kitimat as Vice Chair; Marine Pilot Capt. Al Flotre as Treasurer; Tracey Burgess of BC Centre for Aquatic Health Science.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:16:18 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=631
$10M upgrade for Catalyst mill
Alberni Valley Times
PORT ALBERNI - A $10-million mechanical upgrade at the Catalyst plant in Port Alberni promises to bring down the cost of producing paper.
Earlier this week, Catalyst staff began to operate a pair of new Canadian-built electrical motors in the chemo thermo-mechanical pulp room.
The entire pulp output of the mill goes through these machines,” said operations manager Jason Seabrook. “We had two motors rated at 26,500 horsepower each, and we’ve now upgraded them to 34,000 horsepower apiece.”
The CMTP process uses pressure, steam and mechanical energy to convert raw wood chips into extremely fine pulp.

Coulson bombers off to California Alberni Valley Times
PORT ALBERNI - Coulson Group of Companies just got a whole busier this summer.
After months of negotiations, the Port Alberni-based company signed a multi-million dollar deal with the United States federal government that will see one of the Mars bombers heading south for the summer.
“For us when we started with this business we knew that B.C. had about two weeks of potential firefighting season,” explained Wayne Coulson, owner of Coulson Group. “Now we’ve been able to get our aircraft into the biggest market in the world.”
He says California guarantees them lots of fires, as they always have a busy season that often sees damages as high as $1 Billion in a single season.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:13:07 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=630
Housing boom for south Valley?
Comox Valley Echo
COMOX VALLEY - Land between Courtenay and Royston could eventually be developed with homes for around 2,000 people if a proposed new local plan is approved.
The South Courtenay Local Area Plan has been drawn up over the past 12 months by consultants working with city council planning staff.
It’s drafting followed the City’s annexation of more than 500 acres of land, all formerly administered by the regional district, in November 2007.

Days Inn coming to Comox Valley
Comox Valley Echo
COMOX VALLEY - Plans for  a new 94-bedroom Days Inn at the southern entrance to Courtenay were warmly welcomed by city councillors last night.
Saskatoon hotel owner and developer Grant Smith plans the four-storey hotel on a 2.6-acre site between Cliffe and Kilpatrick Avenues next to the Anfield Shopping Centre.
It will include a large conference meeting room capable of hosting about 250 people and an indoor pool with water slide and adjoining fitness centre.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:11:19 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=629
Business increase noted at the PNC
Nanaimo Daily News
NANAIMO - Business has started percolating at the Port of Nanaimo Centre but it’s not fast enough for the management company that bought the retail leasing rights last summer.
The main-floor retail space remains vacant at the PNC, but Serious Coffee has a sign in the window of one of those spaces that reads “Opening Soon.”
Nanaimo Mayor John Ruttan, who owns Nanaimo Travel across Commercial Street from the PNC, said he’s relieved to see businesses begin to move into the centre that houses the museum and Vancouver Island Conference Centre.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:09:49 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=628 Tofino airport gets new terminal
The Westerly News
TOFINO - A new terminal building will soon be built at the Tofino-Ucluelet airport.
Mike Irg, manager of planning and development for the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District, (the airport’s owners and operators) confirmed the project will soon be put out to tender.
“We’re in the process of having it designed and it will be gong out to tender really soon,, but it hasn’t’ yet,” Irg said.


Wave energy gets green light
Alberni Valley Times
TOFINO - A multi-million dollar green energy project to be built off Amphitrite Point could have major spinoffs for Port Alberni.
It’s part of a a $32-million green energy initiative announced by the province, with $4.75 directed towards the West Coast. Two million will go towards a wave-generation project off Tofino, by Sync Wave Systems, another $750,000 to a geo-thermal initiative by Tla-0-qui-aht First Nation, and another $2 million to a partnership of the District of Ucluelet and Pacific Coastal Wave Energy Corp.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:09:06 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=627 Plutonic project approved by B.C.
Powell River Peak
POWELL RIVER - BC has approved an environmental assessment certificate for Plutonic Power Corporation’s Upper Toba Valley project.
The proposed $330-million project includes three run-of-river generation facilities at the headwaters of the Toba Inlet, on Jimmie Creek, Dalgleish Creek and the Upper Toba River. Together they will generate about 130 megawatts.
The projects will use much of the main infrastructure built for the East Toba-Montrose Creek project, including the same transmission line, road infrastructure and barge facility. A 2.3-kilometre transmission line will be built to connect to the 230-kilovolt transmission line under construction.

Two awards for Texada quarry
Powell River Peak
POWELL RIVER - A quarry on Texada Island has received two environmental awards for 2008.
Lafarge USWC division received the awards from the Wildlife Habitat Council of North America and the National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association (NSSGA).
Kevin Spenst, general manager of the division, said the president of Lafarge recently travelled from Calgary to present the awards to the quarry. “The Wildlife Habitat Council award is for work we do on our claim with regards to the environment,” said Spenst. “We have special fish species in some of our ponds that we look after. We have a bat habitat and things like that we help set up on our site.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:07:26 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=626 Awards celebrate best in commercial building

by Mark MacDonald - Publisher

PARKSVILLE - InSight Developments of Nanaimo captured two major awards at the second annual Vancouver Island Real Estate Board’s Commercial Building Awards - April 23 before a packed house at Tigh Na Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre.
InSight won Excellence Awards in the Mixed Use - Commercial-Residential category for Hawthorne Corner, and Senior’s Housing for Origin at Longwood.
The City of Nanaimo’s Port of Nanaimo Centre won the Judge’s Choice Award for best overall entry, as well as the Excellence Award for Community Institutional.
Other Excellence Award winners were The Ridge Phase II of Ucluelet in Multi Family, the Van Isle  Veterinary Clinic in Courtenay in Commercial/Retail, E.N.G. Sheet Metal Ltd.’s Warehouse Renovation in Courtenay in Industrial, the Meyers Norris Penny building in Nanaimo for Commercial Renovation/Restoration, the building at 125 Wallace Street in Nanaimo for Office, and Black Rock Oceanfront Resort in Ucluelet for Hospitality.
“The judges had a very difficult time making decisions about this group of nominations,” says Event Chair Jay Cousins. “The Vancouver Island construction industry can take a bow for the fine work they produce each year.
There were over 30 finalists in the awards, representing properties north of the Malahat on Vancouver Island to Port Hardy, including Tofino and Ucluelet.
Meyers Norris Penny LLP Chartered Accountants & Business Advisors was the title sponsor of the event, with Terasen Gas, the Business Development Bank of Canada, RBC Royal Bank, Business Vancouver Island newspaper and Concept Photography sponsoring categories at the gala.
“MNP is proud to support the Commercial Building Awards for the second straight year,” says Wendy Lewis, a partner with presenting sponsor MNP. “It’s our way of paying tribute to the commercial building sector and the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board for all the great work they do throughout the year.
“Not only are successful builders and developers important economic drivers for our local communities, but the commercial buildings they create also make the Island a better place to live and work.”
Nanaimo Mayor John Ruttan said “I was extremely impressed with the high calibre of architecture and design style evident in new building projects all over the Island, and of course I was quite proud that the Port of Nanaimo Centre received the Judges Award in its category.
“Stantec Architecture, ITC Construction, and the City project team deserve high praise for the work they did on the Centre, as well as all the other contractors and workers who had a hand in the project.”
Other awards and finalists, by category, were:
Mixed Use: Award of Merit - The Portside of Comox. Finalist: The Moorage of Ucluelet.
Senior’s Housing: Finalist - New Horizons Care Facility of Campbell River.
Multi-Family: Award of Merit - Eaglewood at Qualicum Beach. Finalists: Creektrail Properties of Duncan, The Gales of Ladysmith, Marine Vista of Nanaimo, and Pacific Grande of Parksville.
Community Institutional - Award of Merit - Oliver Woods Community Centre of Nanaimo. Honorable Mention: Cowichan Valley Regional District’s Trans Canada Trail - Glenora Staging Area in Duncan, Fire Station #4 in Nanaimo.
Commercial/Retail - Award of Merit - Country Grocer in Nanaimo. Finalists: Shoppers Drug Mart in Comox, Courtenay Toyota.
Industrial - Award of Merit - 2459 Cousins Avenue in Courtenay. Honorable Mention: Shellbren Industrial Business Centre in Nanaimo. Finalist - Wash Me On Ludlow in Ladysmith.
Commercial Renovation/Restoration - Finalist - Pioneer Home Hardware Building Centre in Elmwood Park Plaza in Campbell River.
Hospitality - Finalists - Old House Village Hotel & Spa in Courtenay, Oceanside Village Resort II in Parksville, and Fourteen Thirty One at Cox Bay Tofino.
Affordable Housing - Honorable Mention - Tin Wis Staff Housing in Tofino.
Island Westcoast Developments Ltd. and Windley Contracting of Nanaimo had three of their projects honored during the evening.
To be eligible for nomination, investment, commercial or industrial building, development or renovation projects located within the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board area (Mill Bay to Port Hardy, including Tofino- Ucluelet) had to have been completed between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2008.
A video presentation of the awards can be seen at http://www.conceptphoto.ca/vireb

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:04:56 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=625 Victoria celebrates business champions

by Mark MacDonald - Publisher

VICTORIA - The best in business in Victoria was celebrated by the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce at the Greater Victoria Business Awards at the Fairmont Empress Hotel in April.
A total of 13 awards were handed out in front of the crowd of over 325, as well as the Governors’ Lifetime Achievement Award, which went to Thrifty Foods founder Alex Campbell. 
“It was a fantastic evening,“ says John Juricic, chair of the Victoria Chamber. “We have such incredible talent and energy in our business community and people that are really committed to our regional community. It is really wonderful to pause and recognize their accomplishments.”
Victorian Epicure Inc. was named Business of the Year for companies with over 76 employees. Margaret Lucas of Hotel Rialto was named Business Person of the Year.
Lucas, general manager of the Hotel Rialto, notes the project is about much more than simply restoring an extraordinary heritage site – it’s also about bringing life back to a neighbourhood.
Community is very important to Lucas and a big part of the reason she was awarded the Chamber Award. She is the past chair of the Chamber, a member of the Downtown Victoria Business Association, a director of the Victoria Hospice Society and a director of the Coalition to end Homelessness.
Talking about the award, she says, “I couldn’t believe I was even a finalist – and to win the award was amazing. I was very thrilled.”
In 2004, Lucas accepted the position with the Hotel Rialto after 16 years as general manager of the Olympic View Golf Course.
“It was a wonderful opportunity to not only revitalize the hotel but to also help revitalize the whole north end of Douglas Street,” she says. “Our goal was to build it up and make it a nicer place for people to come.”
She praises Danilo Danzo, the owner of Hotel Rialto for undertaking the “labour of love.”
“It’s a legacy project,” she says. “He has transformed it and it is truly spectacular.”
With the Vento Tapas Lounge and Breve Bistro open as of mid-May and the 60 renovated rooms opening at the end of May, Lucas says that the hotel is fulfilling its promise.
“This is really giving people a reason to come down to our end of the city. I think people will be thrilled to frequent the services we are providing there and then the Bay is going to be transformed into beautiful condominiums – and there you have the people for the neighbourhood.”
Monk Office Supply won the Sustainable Business Practices award.
Ross Hill, President of Monk Office, accepted the award on behalf of the company.
“We’re very proud to receive this recognition from our peers. Our staff has been incredibly passionate about reducing our environmental footprint,” he says.
Both Hill and Jeff Lumley, Director of Operations and Facilities,  agree that good environmental practices have become a habit at Monk Office.
“Not a day goes by,” says Lumley, “when I don’t receive an idea from a staff member about how we can improve our existing systems. With the dedication of our staff, I’m sure we will continue to do great things to make the world a better place for our children.”
Other awards were:
Business Leadership: Accent Inns.
New Business: Root Cellar Village Green Grocer Ltd.
Innovation: Island Displays.
Outstanding Customer Service: Robinson’s Outdoor Store.
Business of the Year (1-10 employees): SW Audio Visual.
Business of the Year (11-25 employees): Robinson’s Outdoor Store.
Business of the Year (26-75 employees): Neverblue.
Employer of the Year: Megson Fitzpatrick Inc.
Young Entrepreneur of the Year: Scott Dewis of Race Rocks Digital.
Employee of the Year: Sheri Kasnik of Island Savings Credit Union.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 09:03:31 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=624

Collecting monies your company is owed

Back in law school, they label this area of the law “creditors’ remedies”.
Graduating in 1982, and commencing work in those depressed economic times provided fantastic training with respect to conceiving or utilizing creative remedies to collect monies that clients are owed for outstanding obligations of all variety.
Often, the debtor will not have the means to pay the creditor.
Too often, creditors do not understand the array of remedies available to collect monies owed, or to at least secure their position sufficiently to recover those monies when the economy improves, the value of assets increases, or perhaps cash flow in various businesses returns to the pre-distress levels.
The analysis of your options begins with the nature of the debt.
If it is a simple debt related to a contract, in the ordinary course the creditor can commence legal action for debt if the debtor refuses or is unable to pay. While the justice system can sometimes be cumbersome, particularly in the small claims venue governing claims of less than $25,000.00, there are ways in which to speed the action through to judgment more efficiently.
For instance, an application for summary judgment can put pressure on the debtor that will either allow you to obtain your judgment or perhaps to negotiate some current payment as well as better security over time.
If you simply have a claim for debt, you generally are an unsecured creditor, and it is preferable to attempt to convert that status to a secured creditor so that in the event of bankruptcy you might have some protection against the tangible asset.
If you have supplied services or materials to a property, you may be able to claim a lien or certificate of pending litigation encumbering the property.
If you are a secured creditor, you have been granted a charge over personal or real property securing your claim against the equity in that property. Even if there is no equity in that property, the value of the property can increase and your secured charge can then attach the increase in equity in the property.
It is always desirable to get security against property rather than having an unsecured claim for debt or even an unsecured judgment.
Bringing pressure to bear on the debtor before other creditors can allow you to lawfully achieve payment or certain advantages rather than being the last in the queue.
Many creditors will already know that taking a judgment does not guarantee payment.
However, a judgment can be registered against the debtor and its property. A judgment lasts initially for ten years, but is renewable on multiple occasions.
Often, judgment may be valueless during depressed economic times, but acquire value over time as the value of the debtor and the property increases. It is possible to register the judgment without being a secured creditor, which may in fact achieve a comparable result.
If the debtor refuses or neglects to accommodate, it is important to understand through your counsel or directly the creative remedies that may be employed to recover payment in these times of economic duress.
- Gregory N. Harney

]]> Tue, 12 May 2009 08:57:28 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=623
Chris Cathers - Business Development

The latest plans for Port Place Mall is to double the size of London Drugs and Thrifty Foods, have the Medical Arts Centre in its own building and a road going through the middle.
• • •
Vondella Mechanical is currently upgrading the Vancouver Island Conference Centre’s mechanical/boiler units to a more eco friendly solar heating and heat pump system worth about $1 Million.
• • •
Westcoast Shutters is opening an outlet at Metral Station.
• • •
Karl Meljholm has taken over as manager of personal training at Northridge Fitness.
• • •
Intraworks IT and Intraworks Electrical have taken over the old Sears Appliance location and are renovating the 4,000 sq. ft. of office/commercial space located on Boban Drive in Nanaimo across from Shaw Cable.
• • •
The City of Nanaimo is seeking the supply, installation and servicing of Automated Teller Machines (ATM’s).
• • •
Hazelwood Construction Services Inc. is still doing construction at the BC Ferries Deparuture Bay terminal.
As well has just been awarded the contract for the Hwy 14 - Sombrio No. 3 Bridge Replacement a construction project of a 24.6 metre long concrete box beam bridge with cast-in-place abutments, 540 metre of approach roadwork including paving, the design, supply and installation of 940 square metre of MSE wall.
• • •
The Regional District of Nanaimo has been granted a development permit worth $4 Million for their renovation of their building.
• • •
There is a new bakery called Dragon Fly Bread Co. on Ross Road next to the Sausage House where Grandma’s Pies used to be.
• • •
Mud Sharks Coffee is moving into a new location beside Benito Gelato on Cliffe Street.
• • •
The Globe Hotel is now being run by Stuart Merilees. His plans are to operate for the next 15 months as a strip bar and then do renovations and turn it into an Irish style pub similar to the Irish Times in Victoria. He plans to open in April, and renovations are currently underway.
• • •
The Administrative Professionals Day, formerly known as Secretary’s Day, is April 22.
• • •
Serious Coffee and Iris Optical are opening locations below the Vancouver Island Conference Centre on Commercia Street.
• • •
Sushi Take Out is going to open at 80 Nicol Street.
• • •
Funk Your Fashion Consignment & Walkabout Clothing has opened on Commercial Street.
• • •
Randy Koplarchuk has been awarded the Columbia Fuels contract to do oil furnace repair in Nanaimo.
• • •
The Haven Women Only Facility is breaking ground for an expansion to be completed in July.
• • •
McDonald’s Restaurant on Nicol Street is undergoing a major renovation.
• • •
Bill Rankin is no longer the general manager at Origin at Longwood.
• • •
Andrea Savard has opened Shoefly downtown.
• • •
Coldwell Banker is expanding its office on Rutherford Road.
• • •
Ken Connolly of Pheasant Hill Homes has a renovation contract for the Alliance Church.
• • •
Quale Electronics is closing their Nanaimo location.
• • •
The Co-Op Gas Bar & Convenience Store at the Moose Lodge in Chase River is open for business.
• • •
London Drugs in Nanaimo North Town Centre will be undergoing a small renovation.
• • •
Thompson Automotive Machine has new owners in Dave Pearce, Fraser Lee and Erik Buik.
• • •
Corry Hostetter, currently the marketing person with the downtown Nanaimo Partnership, was the successful candidate to fill the vacant destination marketing coordinator position with the City’s Economic Development Department.
The Nanaimo Downtown Partnership has an opening for Marketing & Events coordinator.
- Chris Cathers writes about business in Nanaimo. He can be contacted at chris@businessvi.ca

]]> Tue, 07 Apr 2009 09:28:32 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=622 Mark MacDonald - Publisher

What’s so bad about run of river power?

If nothing else, the environmental lobby is relentless. There is no stone left unturned in this band of zealots’ efforts to stop anything that appears to pose an environmental threat.
Don’t log the forests. Don’t kill the wolves. Don’t mine. Don’t burn coal. Or wood. Don’t build more mega dams. Don’t build nuclear power plants. And their latest focal point: Stopping run-of-river, “green” hydro generating projects on B.C. rivers.
The latest battle ground is a little puzzling in the fact that run-of-river projects are typically some of the least invasive methods of producing power. About the only thing that is clear about the environmentalists’ war on run-of-river proponents is that they are against everything, period.
With environmentalists indicating that everything that generates power is “wrong”, it leaves one to ask: What is a “right” and acceptable mode of producing power - that allows us to have so-called “green” industry in the first place? Wind power, that is subject to the elements and can julienne bats and birds? 
Have they forfeited their use of computers and electrical dependent technology in their efforts to get their message out? Reached their “battle grounds” via foot or horseback? Or did they drive a vehicle?
Just wondering. And still waiting for the movement to tell us what they do want, and how they plan to generate the power we all need. It’s looking more and more like they just don’t want anything, period.
• • •
In the interest of solving Native land claims, the B.C. Liberal government is poised to recognize aboriginal title. It’s a startling turnaround from the party’s earlier stance over a decade ago, and viewed by many as a progressive step towards loosening the log jam that prevents negotiated settlements.
This is the result of plenty of back room negotiating and wrangling in the courts, to which most of us probably pay little heed. It doesn’t affect non-natives that much. Not now, anyway. Many people have long been nervous about the term “First Nations”. “First” was a clever piece of marketing; a brilliant positioning statement. The “Nations” part means so much more.
This past week, we received a press release from an aboriginal group which included this tag-line at the beginning of the story: “COAST SALISH TERRITORY/VANCOUVER”. The positioning of COAST SALISH TERRITORY before the name of the city is deliberate, and, likely the next push of the envelope towards making non-aboriginals think they’re trespassing in what we know as British Columbia. Don’t forget we’ve already heard some muted rumblings about renaming B.C., how it is “disrespectful”, outdated, etc.
“Nations” is more than marketing. It is positioning. The B.C. Liberals recognized that when they fought the Nisga’a Treaty, but now, apparently, don’t see it as a problem. But it very well could become one. Just as when any government issues an apology for past “wrongdoings”, it’s not just about soothing hurt feelings. It’s a very important legal position - which ultimately leads to reparations, where this generation pays for the sins of ancestors’ past. And those reparations are usually expensive, in money or land.
Are we paying attention? If this method continues, it might not be long before we no longer live in a province, but in another nation - other than Canada - without even changing our address.
• • •
Bravo to the City of Vernon for holding the line on taxes in their upcoming budget. Councillors very well might be able to keep tax increases to almost zero - 0.2 per cent - for 2009.

]]> Tue, 07 Apr 2009 09:27:17 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=621
Holiday Inn Express opens in Courtenay


COMOX VALLEY - There’s a new hotel in the Comox Valley that aims to attract families and the business traveller with exceptional service and amenities.
The Holiday Inn Express & Suites Comox Valley opened to the public in early March with a Grand Opening April 1.
General manager Lynn Larsen says, “We’re really excited because we’re offering something very unique to the Comox Valley. We’re offering a hotel that caters to the family traveller.”
For families there’s an indoor pool complete with water slide and a hot breakfast buffet that opens as early as 6.30 a.m. on weekdays and 7 a.m. on weekends. The buffet not only offers the standards but also hot egg and meat dishes.
“The breakfast bar is really popular with families,” Larsen says. “Most don’t want to try to go out to find a restaurant and wait in line-ups.
It’s nice to just wander downstairs and breakfast is served or you can bring it up to your room.”
Corporate travellers also appreciate the fast, delicious breakfast options along with a complementary 24 hour business centre, 24-hour fitness centre and free high speed and wireless Internet access in all rooms and common areas.
“It’s a very unique concept,” Larsen says.
The Holiday Inn Express rates are competitive with what is available in the Comox Valley and that includes excellent group rates. The new Holiday Inn Express features 91 rooms including 50 standard rooms and large family rooms that feature two queen beds as well as a separate bedroom with a king bed. Each room also boasts a 32-inch flat screen TV.
The rooms also come with fridges and microwaves. All standard rooms also feature flat screen TVs.
The rooms are also beautifully designed, Larsen says, drawing inspiration from the water and the beautiful natural scenery that surrounds the area.
“We want the guests to feel like they are guests in our own homes,” she says.
Holiday Inn Express also offers business travellers a boardroom for meetings up to about 14 people and it also makes the great room available to larger groups after lunch.
All of these features add up to a very special offering in the Comox Valley.
“Holiday Inn did their research and discovered there was a market for this – this was much needed in the valley,” Larsen says. “They gave a lot of thought to the market they wanted to attract. The ideal guest for us is the corporate traveller who comes back on the weekends with his or her family.”
Larsen says they expect to generate excellent year-round business and to attract travellers from Alberta and from the lower part of the island. The Comox Valley offers direct flights to the Alberta market and attractions such as skiing and golf that draw people all year round.
Larsen notes that the hotel hand-picked the staff and also offers incomparable service.
“Customer service is the central focus of what we do,” she says, noting that each person on staff believes in going the extra mile. She cites as an example that a business traveller recently had to leave early in the morning before the breakfast buffet opened.
Without being asked, the staff put together a breakfast tray for him at 5 a.m. and brought it to his room. That, says Larsen, is the sort of service the hotel believes in.
Holiday Inn Express also believes in working with the hospitality industry in the Comox Valley.
“I think there’s enough business here for everybody,” Larsen says. “And this is such an exceptional hotel. I can’t see how we wouldn’t be successful.”
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Comox Valley is at 2200 Cliffe Road in Courtenay
www.hiexpress.com

]]> Tue, 07 Apr 2009 09:24:57 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=620
Victoria based firm Neverblue expanding


VICTORIA - Neverblue is growing out of this world.
 The Victoria-based rapidly growing lead generation company, announced its global expansion March 18.
Neverblue was founded in Victoria in 2004 and purchased by Vertrue Inc., an $800 Million Internet direct marketing services company in February 2007. Neverblue is a premier global performance-based affiliate network that brings together choice affiliates and quality online advertisers as partners through carefully monitored, custom advertising.
The company’s affiliates use a combination of different marketing tactics, including search engine marketing, email marketing, contextual advertising, incentive marketing and banner ads.
Simply put, clients turn their ads over to Neverblue. Neverblue puts them on its network where its affiliates drive traffic to the advertising.
Neverblue is in the business of getting results. Its model works on Cost Per Action (CPA). Marketing and communications coordinator Breanne Storey explains, “Someone actually has to click on the ad, go through and enter information. It might be an email address or a credit card in some cases. When that information is entered the advertiser pays. We actually know that someone has seen this ad and they’ve taken the time to enter the information.”
CPA is a lower risk way to advertise and a method finding more and more support with advertisers. Neverblue has been growing so rapidly and doing so well the company decided in 2008 that it had to expand to overseas markets to continue its phenomenal expansion.
Maximilian Kless, senior manager of international business development says, “Neverblue is uniquely positioned to help advertisers grow internationally and to bring the most profitable opportunities in the marketplace to successful affiliates.
“There is much more growth to be had. With top global campaigns, multi-language service and support, rapidly growing international traffic and a proprietary technology platform that is optimized for global business, Neverblue is just beginning to help partners capitalize on the global opportunity.”
Neverblue is focussed on the UK, France and Germany along with its current North American business. The company’s web site is now available in German and French and advertising for the company is available in French, German and Spanish as well as English. Storey says,
“We have advertisers who are specifically looking to generate leads for those countries so the ads are targeted to those nationalities.”
Storey attributes Neverblue’s success in large part to a young, vibrant and savvy staff that gives customer service beyond expectations. Each client is assigned an account executive as well as a business development manager who helps them grow their accounts and helps determine other areas of growth and lead generation.
Neverblue also participates in trade shows and builds strong relationships with its customers.
Storey says that the company has more expansion planned this year and in the years to come.
“We’re going to keep growing,” she says. “We’re going to keep growing internationally. There are a few other countries we’re planning to expand to later this year.”
Neverblue is developing exclusive offerings for its clients that none of its competitors can match. The company is also growing its network to offer its clients more opportunities to get its product or service in front of the public.
Neverblue has just signed an exclusive agreement with the leading online jewelry retailer Bidz.com.
The agreement expands the relationship between the two companies and names Neverblue the exclusive agency for Bidz.com and Buyz.com worldwide display advertising. 
The deal also makes Neverblue the exclusive Performance Marketing Network for Bidz.com in France, Germany and the United Kingdom.
Neverblue is at 302 – 852 Fort Street in Victoria.
www.neverblue.com

]]> Tue, 07 Apr 2009 09:23:48 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=619
Tips on lending your way to tax savings

Blair Dwyer - Dwyer Tax Laywers

The recent economic crisis has seen a marked decline in interest rates.
This can give rise to income-splitting opportunities.
Say that I earn a significant income but my wife has no income. I can lend money to my wife so that she can invest and earn her own income. Unless my wife annually pays me a minimum amount of annual interest, however, I (not my wife) will have to pay the tax on any income or capital gains that she earns from the investments.
This is one of the many “attribution rules” scattered throughout the Income Tax Act. Even though the investment income belongs to my wife, it is “attributed” to me for income tax purposes unless my wife pays me that minimum amount of annual interest.
That minimum amount of annual interest is based on the Canada Revenue Agency “prescribed rate of interest”. With the recent decline in general interest rates, that prescribed rate of interest has declined to just 2%.
Say that I lend $10,000 to my wife and she invests that money. My wife will have to pay me 2% interest ($200 per year). I will include that $200 in my income and my wife will deduct that $200 in computing her income.
Any return in excess of 2% is taxed as my wife’s income, at her lower tax rate. Even a GIC would pay about 3% interest. Other investments – even in these dire economic times – can pay up to 7% and even more. If my wife (the borrowing spouse in this example) pays tax at a lower rate than me (because she earns less income), the difference in our tax rates means an annual tax savings.
With proper documentation, that 2% rate can be locked in indefinitely. Assuming that the economy will eventually recover despite the doom and gloom out there, a timely loan to a lower-income spouse can result in significant long-term tax savings.
In summary, the spouse with the higher income lends to the spouse with the lower income, who pays interest to the higher-income spouse at the 2% rate and gets to pocket – and pay tax on – any excess return.
Most economists predict that the current recession will be with us for some time. Interest rates in the United States are already near 0%, and it is possible that the Canada Revenue Agency prescribed rate could decline even further (from 2% to 1%) in an upcoming quarter. If this happens, the rate will be at an all-time historic low.
Borrowing at 2% does not necessarily mean that you lose out if the rate declines to 1%. If the borrowing spouse is very sweet to the lending spouse, it might just be possible to convince the lending spouse to refinance the loan at that lower rate.
I won’t speculate on the exact incentives that the borrowing spouse might have to offer for refinancing, but I have faith that it will be more romantic than the last time you refinanced a loan with a bank.
- Blair Dwyer is with Dwyer Tax Lawyers in Victoria.

]]> Wed, 18 Mar 2009 13:05:40 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=618 Housing market shows increase
VICTORIA – Sales of real estate in February jumped to 403 - up 63 per cent over the 247 recorded in January, statistics from the Victoria Real Estate Board reveal.
At the end of February there were 3,844 properties available for sale, an increase of 16% over February, 2008. This January’s total was 3,678.
The single-family home average price in February was $542,396, an increase over January’s $526,148. February’s condominium average price was $286,985, up from January’s $259,742. The average cost of a town home in February was $381,383, down slightly from January’s $393,982.

Hillside granted approval for plan
VICTORIA – City Council recently approved a $60 Million upgrade and expansion for the east side of the Hillside Shopping Centre.
The 7,448-square-metre expansion will add 20 stores, the majority of them selling women’s and men’s fashions. The upgrade and expansion will begin in the late summer or early fall this year

Waiting for Airport funding
VICTORIA – The Victoria Airport Authority is hoping to secure provincial and federal funding by May for the extension of the main runway from 2,133 to 2,560 metres - long enough for direct flights to England.
By April, the Authority will have spent $500,000 in preparation for the expansion, which is expected to cost an estimated $41.2 Million.
The extension is expected to bring in an additional 32,700 visitors every year, as well as 64 new jobs. Construction could begin next January.

Royal Caribbean will return
VICTORIA – Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines will be making stops at Ogden Point again this year, bringing in around 400,000 passengers and more than 130,000 crew members, according to the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority.
Royal Caribbean’s return marks the end of a one year hiatus, as their ships made Prince Rupert their B.C. stop in 2008. This year, 25 cruise ships are expected to stop at Ogden Point for an all-time high of 215 visits. There were 201 in 2008.

Third revision for Tillicum Centre
SAANICH – A third revision of plans for Tillicum Centre has been unveiled.
The revision still calls for a high-rise residential development, however, the height of the proposed towers would be dropped in favor of smaller suites. The Official Community Plan’s eight-storey height limit can be bypassed if provisions are made for the surrounding community, such as green features or incorporated affordable housing.
Owned by RioCan Real estate Investment Trust, the Centre’s planned 280,000-sqaure-foot project could feature 280 units, and would also have commercial space on the ground floor.
The Kelsey’s and Montana’s restaurants would be relocated.Prices of the units could be as low as $200,000, with units on higher floors costing $1 Million or more.

Goldstream Meadows closer
LANGFORD – City Council recently passed a motion that would allow developer Les Bjola to build Goldstream Meadows, a subdivision of tiny cottages near Langford Lake.
The development would feature groupings of around 500 cottages, ranging from 400 to 1,200 square feet, as well as an additional 100 condominium units. The subdivision will have mostly affordable housing.

CMHC forecasts 2009 housing
VICTORIA – The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation is predicting a decrease in the Greater Victoria housing market this year. New home construction is expected to fall to 1,350 units, and the 2010 forecast projects 1,250.
Housing sales are forecasted to decrease by 12.5% to 5,400 units, but in 2010, sales are expected to increase to 5,600. The average price of all types of housing is expected to fall 12% to $427,000, and in 2010 even further to $420,000.

Hudson project moving forward
VICTORIA – Construction on the $300 Million Hudson redevelopment of the former Hudson Bay building on Douglas Street has been slowed due to the installation of a new geothermal system, as well as changes to Blanshard Street parkade access.
The project is currently in Phase 1, to be completed in the spring of 2010, featuring 152 units, ranging from $382,000 one-bedroom apartments, to a $1.5 Million penthouse. The second phase will feature three towers. In total, the development is expecting to have around 650 units.

Income triples at Vecima
VICTORIA - Revenue was up 33 per cent, and operating income more than triplesdfrom the first half of last fiscal year at Vecima Networks Inc., which reported its six month financial results for the period ending December 31, 2008.
Vecima designs, manufactures and sells products that enable broadband access to cable, wireless, fibre and telephone networks.
The results include a 34% increase in second quarter revenue to $36.9 Million compared with $27.4 Million in fiscal 2008; six month sales up 37% over the same period last fiscal year.
It also reported 33% year-over-year growth in converged wired products for the second quarter, reflecting from rising worldwide demand for broadband access.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 11:11:51 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=617
Lund Hotel offered in treaty
POWELL RIVER – The provincial government has offered the Lund Hotel, of which Tla’Amin already owns 51%, as part of a treaty settlement with the First Nation.
The remaining 49% would allow the First Nation’s group to have land-use jurisdiction and governance. The hotel would pay its taxes to the Tla’Amin taxation authority, but local services such as water and sewage would have to be arranged with the Powell River Regional District.

ICET contributes to 2010 effort
POWELL RIVER – Island Coastal Economic Trust (ICET) will contribute to Sunshine Coast 2010 and Tourism Vancouver Island programs aimed at maximizing the area’s exposure during the upcoming 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
ICET is pitching in $400,000 towards the $1.1 Million project, which will include creating media kits, hosting an event in Vancouver promoting the area through images and video footage, and familiarization trips for travel writers.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 11:02:04 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=616
Peak nod for Carlson
• Powell River Peak Publisher Joyce Carlson is one of 45 B.c. residents named as recipients of the BC Community Achievement Awards. She’ll receive her award March 10 in Victoria.
• Dr. Dan Lafferty would like to welcome Dr. Vidushi Melrose to the clinic at D-1-6935 Harvie Avenue, across from Quality Foods.
• Jenessa Blanchet has earned her Certified Management Accounts designation from the CMA Society of B.C. board of directors.
• Cory Clouston, an assistant coach with the BCHL’s Powell River Kings in 1994-95, is now the head coach of the National Hockey League’s Ottawa Senators.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:59:41 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=615
McPhedran joins firm
• Chris McPhedran, CA, has joined the firm of Chan Nowosad Boates Chartered Accountants.
• Murray Callaghan has joined Deluca Veale Investment Counsel Inc.
• Ripzone has moved to 652-11th Avenue.
• ShoreRunners held the grand re-opening recently of their new location near Mariner Square between Save On Foods and the new Home Hardware at 1371 Greenwood Street.
• McElhanney civil/structural engineering firm has moved to 1307 Shoppers Row, in Tyee Plaza.
• Ian Emery of International Forest Products has been named to the council of the Assembly of BC Forest Professionals. Jonathan Lok of Strategic Forest Management Inc. in Port McNeill has been named President.
• Tom Cahill was the top salesman at Barrie Brown GM in January, while Ron May did the same at Bill Howich Chrysler RV & Marine. Howich is the new North Island Arrow canopy dealer.
• The new 80,000 square foot Home Depot has opened in Campbell River.
• The Waterfront Group/Dundee Securities Corporation is pleased to note that branch manager Cecil Baldry-White has achieved the Canadian Investment Manager designation.
• Tide Line Gallery & Stained Glass Supplies is now open at the Maritime Heritage Centre.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:58:43 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=614
Pinnacle for Brian Rice
• Congratulations to dealer principal Brian Rice and his team at Courtenay Toyota for winning the coveted Toyota Pinnacle Award for customer service.
• Booster Juice owner Tye Harlock held the grand opening of their Courtenay location at #8-3195 Cliffe Avenue recently.
• Joaquina France and Natalee Rhodes are the new in-house certified aestheticians at Roots The Salon in Comox Mall.
• Modern Family Pharmacy at 204-1530 Cliffe Avenue is now called Living Room Pharmacy.
• Allan Greene, pharmacy manager at Courtenay Rexall, is pleased to welcome Leslee Johnson from Comox Rexall as the new Front Store Manager.
• The Old House restaurant is back - as The Old House, after the owners changed the name back to the original from Tomato Tomato. The popular eatery is between two new Old House Village accommodation buildings and Oh! Spa in Courtenay.
• Congratulations to Mike Paroshy for being the top salesman at Brian McLean Chevrolet in 2008.
• A tip of the hat to Ron Graham of Baxandall Ford Country for completing his Master Technician training.
• BCAA has closed its travel office in Courtenay.
• Larry Epp was tops in sales at Arbutus RV’s Courtenay location in 2008.
• Jody Frerot and Beverly Stuart have been promoted to Client Managers at Presley & Partners Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors.
• Sam Troy has joined the team at Investors Group.
• Sea to Sky BNI (Business Network International) is opening a second chapter in the Comox Valley. The leads and referrals group will meet each Wednesday. For information, call Dave Robertson at 250-890-0245.
• Otter’s Kitchen Cove is now open at the corner of Comox Avenue and Port Augusta Street, across from Comox Shoes.
• Gibsons Mayor Barry Janyk has been elected chair of the Island Coastal Economic Trust.
• Owner Stu Tunheim is pleased to note his Budget Blinds recently celebrated its first anniversary in business.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:54:50 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=613
Hall in at Black Rock
• Boutique Hotels & Resorts of British Columbia president Mike Duggan is pleased to announce that Carly Hall is the new hotel manager of the Black Rock Oceanfront Resort in Ucluelet. She has served six years as General Manager of the Long Beach Lodge Resort, and has also been with Tofino’s Middle Beach Lodge.
• Tofino Co-Op is holding the grand opening of its newly renovated building April 18.
• Sharon Lingenfelter is the new Executive Director of Tourism Tofino.
• Steve Bernard is back as president of the Tofino Business Association. Bruce McDiarmid of Tofino Vacation Rentals and Wickaninnish Estates is vice president, Dennis Evans of Ocean Village Beach Resort as secretary-treasurer, and directors are Keith Gibson of Gibson Bros. Contracting and Chris ledger of Mainstream Canada.
• Peninsula Cafe at 1648 Peninsula Road in Ucluelet is now open after its renovations.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:53:49 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=612
Graham in Dog house
• Bryant Perrier was removed as coach of the Alberni Valley Bulldogs of the B.C. Hockey League, and has been replaced by former Nanaimo Clippers assistant Nolan Graham.
• 99 in the Shade Party Supplies Balloons & More is celebrating 11 years in the Alberni Valley. Port Alberni’s largest selection of wedding and party supplies has over 99 kid’s party supplies in stock.
• Ron Lapine notes that Rice Financial has changed its name to MGI Financial Inc.
• Love Rush is on the move, next to Josoco Fashions at 4977 Argyle Street.
• Chris Arcus has purchased Ralph’s Men’s Wear  at 3021 Third Avenue from John Clark.
• Congratulations to the McLean & Higgins plumbing business which has been in business now for over 50 years.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:52:45 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=611 Permit for new Dolly’s
• Dolly’s Home Hardware has received a development permit from Qualicum Beach council for a 10,762 square foot Dolly’s on Second Avenue.
• Dave Moore has opened Heavy D Motors in Whiskey Creek. Their specialty is automotive and truck repair.
• Morningstar Farm has added some wine to their cheese, launching Morningstar Creek Winery, notes Susan Hirmer.
• Vic and Lucia Andrushko are pleased with their new shop for Nanoose Bay Collision.
• The 14th Annual Family Health and Wellness Fair is March 28 at the Parksville Community and Conference Centre.  This year’s theme is “Living in Balance” and encourages people to live in balance with their body, their environment and their community. It will feature over 50 exhibitors, free seminars, entertainment and door prizes. www.vividliving.com

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:52:13 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=610
New name for Insurance co.
• Coastal Community Insurance Agencies Inc. has changed its name to Coastal Community Insurance Services (2007) Ltd., notes Senior Vice President Operations Rob Grundison.
• Michelle Quaife has joined the staff at Kleijn Nurseries at Morden Road and the Island Highway.
• Rainy Crick Wine, owned and operated by Karen and Brian Wyatt, welcomes Cass Currie to their team. The Wyatts are celebrating their 14th year in business, and they’re at 106-5070 Uplands Drive.
• Congratulations to Houle Electric for being named gold award winners for Best Electrical  Project by the Vancouver Regional Construction Association.
• Ross McKeever is now the sales manager for Couverdon, the newly created real estate division of TimberWest Forest Corp. McKeever was formerly with Colliers International Victoria.
• Penny McMann says there will be a Built Green Seminar in Nanaimo April 17-18 at the  CHBA-CVI Boardroom at 202A – 2520 Bowen Road. Instructor is Einar Halbig of E3 Eco Group Inc. For info visit www.chbabc.org
• Kevin Beausoleil, MBA has joined the team at E.R. Heese Accounting and Tax Services at 6-77 Victoria Crescent.
• Andrea Savard has left the B.C. Lions football administration team to open the Shoefly shoe store on Commercial Street.
• Lorcan Byrne is the new store manager of The Home Depot in Nanaimo.
• Tiffany Nelson has joined her advisory practice with Jim Tyson at Investors Group on Uplands Drive.
• Keith and Kevin Greenard of The Greenard Group have expanded their ScotiaMcLeod wealth advisory practice to Nanaimo.
• Christopher Tarala was top salesman at Wheaton Pontiac Buick GMC in February.
• Kate Wiles has opened Rain Salon and Day Spa at 1635 Bowen Road.
• Nanaimo resident Geoff Murdoch has been named General Manager of the Williams Lake Timberwolves, which makes its return to the B.C. Hockey League next season. Murdoch played junior hockey with T-wolves new owner Jack Wright, the 1980-81 Coastal Division scoring leader with the Nanaimo Clippers.
• Dr. Melissa Oberholster has joined the Townsite Medical Clinic at 512 Campbell Street.
• The Bold Knight Restaurant is celebrating their 32nd birthday.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:51:14 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=609
Hincks to chair BIA
• Geoff Hincks, owner of Chemainus Books, is the new chair of the Chemainus Business Improvement Area. Vice chair is Lou Roelofson of Best Western Chemainus, while secretary-treasurer is Shawna McPhillips of Coastal Community Credit Union. Other directors include Christine Weicht, Clare Boulton, Tony Newton, Warren Goudling, Ward Yeager, Gary Rivest and Ellen Bootsma and Ian Barker.
• Steven Lorimer of Ladysmith has been named to the council of the Assembly of BC Forest Professionals.
• Morningstar Bison Ranch is now selling bison meat. www.m-star.ca
• Ricardio’s Gifts & Paraphernalia is now open at 9780C Willow Street in Chemainus. Their grand opening is March 14.
• Ingrid is the new manager of the Chemainus Chamber of Commerce.
• Congratulations to John Surtees of Re/Max Ocean Pointe in Ladysmith, upon being recognized in Victoria by Re/MAX Western Canada for making the top 15 per cent of Re/MAX sales people in the west. There are over 4,000 salespeople flying the Re/MAX banner in Western Canada.
• Jo-Ann Robson is pleased to note that Pilates Ladysmith Body Resource Studio is now open. The business is located at 524 First Avenue.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:50:07 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=608 Grand opening for Stone Mart
• Stone Mart Landscape Supplies held the Grand Opening of their location at the corner of Boal and Polkey recently.
• Linda Slader and Brad Jardine welcome mortgage specialist Yvette Schulenberg to their team at The Mortgage Centre at 1-2628 Beverly Street.
• Duncan Music is now open in Mill Bay.
• Bruce Cafferky has joined the Duncan office of RBC Dominion Securities.
• Laura McBeth and Ian Sparshu have become the new owners of Cobble Hill’s Cobblecino’s Cafe & Catering.
• Lake’s Marine Supply is now open at 5968 Trans Canada Highway in Duncan.
• Roses and More has a new owner in Lisa Money.
• The top producing salespeople at Pemberton Holmes in 2008 were Dan Johnson, Kelli Anderson, Ken Janicki and Josh Heath.
• Steve Aydon, Angela Ketch and Rob Eastman topped the sales charts at Peter Baljet GM in February.
• David ‘Ford’ Faithful was top salesman at Ken Evans Ford last year.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:49:20 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=607 Tighe in at United Way
• Former Island Publishers President Jim Tighe starts as associate campaign director of the United Way of Victoria on March 23.
• Iqbal Dodd, owner of Six Mile Furniture and Standard Furniture, has purchased the former Liberty home furnishings building at 163- Store Street and is opening another outlet called Modern Living by Standard Furniture. Dodd is also rebranding his Standard Furniture on Cloverdale Avenue, calling it Lane Home.
• Cindy Choi, a CGA with Chan & Company, has been named to the board of directors of the Certified General Accountants Association of B.C.
• Steve Drane has opened his new 30,000 square foot location for his Harley-Davidson dealership, the only one on Vancouver Island. It’s in Goldstream Meadows, just off the West Shore parkway.
• Pearl Graham has opened The Blue Angel, a jewelry, art and handbag outlet at 560 Yates Street.
• Pacific Rollshutters and Awnings has moved to 2745 Bridge Street, in with Debra Ruffell and Nigel Brown of Ruffell and Brown Interiors. Linda and Bruce Holland have sold Pacific to a partnership that includes Ruffell and Brown, and Don Beatty, former owner of Lightway, and business development manager at Illuminations.
• Butchart Gardens donated $10,000 to help Craigflower Farmhouse after the tragic fire on Jan 23, 2009. Dave Cowen, General Manager of The Butchart Gardens presented Bill Turner, Executive Director of The Land Conservancy with the cheque.
• Peter Hansen, formerly with Thrifty Foods, is now selling vehicles at Three Point Motors Mercedes Benz.
• Victor Skaarup of Investors Group Financial Services is the new president of the Financial Advisors Association of Canada (Advocis).
• Dr. Levente Degi has joined the team at Juan de Fuca Veterinary Clinic.
• Maxxam Insurance Services, formerly Sussex Insurance inside the Real Canadian Superstore, has moved to a new, larger location at 867 Goldstream Avenue.
• Dr. Steven Gordon is pleased to note that Cook Street Village Laser welcomes the latest in laser technology to Victoria: Laser Light Hair Therapy. This cold or low level laser therapy treatment capitalizes on the regenerative power of light on cell function to promote and improve hair growth.
• Serious Coffee held a grand opening for their View Royal location at 1701 Island Highway recently.
• Robert Down is now a broker assistant at Colliers International Victoria.
• Rogers’ Chocolates president Steve Parkhill has been appointed to the board of governors at Camosun College.
• Suzanne Caviness has opened her own esthetics studio at 2345B Sooke Road in Colwood. Previously, she was with La Moda Hair Studio and Day Spa in Hillside Centre.
• Jodie Farup has joined the real estate sales team at Century 21 Queenswood Realty Ltd.
• Home Outfitters is expected to be the store to move into the former Linens N’ Things location at Tillicum Centre. Home Outfitters has 10 stores throughout B.C., including Langford and Nanaimo.
• Elegance Nails held a Grand Opening for their Nail Salon in the Westshore Town Center on 150-2945 Jacklin Road recently.
• Mike Shemilt is pleased to note that Island Blue Print has expanded its large format color imaging capabilities with the installation of a new OCE flatbed printing system.
• Mike Purewal, who owns A&B Tailor Shop in the Bay Centre and Breeze Boutique at Bastion Square and Government, has taken over management of custom suit maker Curt’s Custom Tailoring at 780 Fort Street.
• TD Canada Trust is pleased to welcome David Steinberg to their Mobile Mortgage Specialist Team.
• Six Mile Furniture held the Grand Opening of their new location at #309-895 Langford Parkway recently.
• Where Canada magazine has named Aura at Laurel Point Inn as one of the top 10 new restaurants in Canada.
• City Administrator Rob Buchan is no longer with the City of Langford.
• President Willie Mounzer is pleased to note that Caffe Artigiano has opened its first location in Victoria, at the Bedford Regency at 1140 Government Street.
• Amanda Mills of Mills Appraisal Group has been appointed chair of the Victoria chapter of the Appraisal Institute of Canada.
• Karen Kesteloo, CGA, a Director of Coast Capital Savings, has obtained the Chartered Directors designation from the Directors College of McMaster University.
• Congratulations to Dr. Brian White, director of Royal Roads University’s School of Tourism and Hotel Management, upon receiving a lifetime achievement award at the B.C. Tourism Industry Awards.
• Martin Leclerc, the new general manager of the Fairmont Empress Hotel, is the youngest GM in the 101 year history of the property, and he’s also the  first one who is French.
• Dr. Julian Parsons has moved his clinic into the old Mac’s Convenience store location at 2349 Millstream Road in Langford. The larger clinic, now called Energy Health Clinic, offers non-surgical spinal decompression with the DRX9000 machine (the first on Vancouver island), for treatment of herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, facet syndrome and spinal stenosis. The clinic also offers a wide variety of services.
• Quester Tangent chairman Bill Collins is pleased to note the Sidney based company has signed a $3 Million-plus contract to supply floor mapping software to the Indian navy. They’ll also provide a $250,000 driving simulator to the operators of the Sky Train in Vancouver.
• Royal Roads University has officially opened an office in downtown Victoria, at Shoal Point at 105-19 Dallas Road.
• Shelagh Rinald has moved Rinald Tax Advisory Inc. to 841 Yates Street.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:48:28 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=606 Media: The author of its own demise

By Mark MacDonald Publisher

Reports of trouble within the newspaper and television industries are striking close to home.
Both Seattle daily newspapers, the Times and Post Intelligencer, are in serious financial difficulties. Both Canwest and CTV Media have announced multi-million dollar losses. Victoria’s TV station, CHEK, has been put up for sale.
Obviously, the global credit crunch has become the tipping point for troubled major daily newspapers and TV stations, but one needs to look behind the headlines to get a full picture. Advertising revenues have dipped dramatically, but why? The internet is one of the main reasons, but it’s the news outlets themselves that have loaded up the web’s information arsenal, which is now causing them great concern.
In their rush to “out-scoop” the competition, daily newspapers have scurried to be the first to post news on the web. But by putting their “news” on-line, they’ve made their own print products “olds”, by effectively beating themselves.
Readers can now get the latest news and information on-line, often many hours before it would be delivered to their doorstep. The logical conclusion of prospective paid subscribers is this: “Why would I pay to subscribe for something that I already get for free?” Daily newspaper subscriptions have fallen steadily over the years, as the Internet has grown. Readers can get their news fix instantly, for no charge, and be informed without buying a paper. Subscription revenue is an important piece of the financial puzzle at any daily, and that erosion of revenue has the industry less prepared than normal to weather financial storms.
One of the problems with the internet from a business standpoint is the fact that the newspaper industry has not been able to make it pay. At least one major media company has made two significant investments in on-line products that failed miserably at reaching the lofty revenue targets that were set for it. To date, no major news firm has been able to come close to making their on-line versions replace the revenue generated by print publications.
Putting the news (which is expensive to gather, once one factors in salaries and expenses) on the net is fashionable. But what if daily newspapers didn’t put all their news on the internet? Would the internet really be the source for news? Most likely not.
Sure, there would be news on the net, but how reliable would it be? Would it be compiled by savvy journalists well aware of the importance of adhering to libel and slander laws? Or would most net news be produced by on-line bloggers who have no fear of repercussions, or see the need for objective, accurate, legal opinions?
Serious readers would be forced to look elsewhere for the information they want, and if the only way they could get it was from  by buying a subscription, they would. That would help daily newspapers financially, putting less strain on advertising to bring in much needed revenue, making the papers stronger. . .
The love affair with the internet is still on. If you’re in business and want to be taken seriously, you need to have a website. But really, they are more like brochures, or store fronts. They are portals, really, to bring customers into the business, where they need to be sold and serviced by real people.
But from a readers’ perspective, if you’re like me, computers can be hard on your eyes, and on-line reading can be frustrating, with annoying pop-ups littering the screen. Give me a piece of paper, any day.
Yes, the internet is here to stay. But will it be the be-all, end-all of media? Who knows? I just wouldn’t bet against the daily news industry finding a way to re-create a profitable, info gathering business. It may take awhile, but they will, somehow.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:29:57 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=605
New Rona for South Nanaimo
NANAIMO – Pacific Building Systems’ owners Wayne and Grant McKinnon are building a new 35,000 square foot Rona building supply store in south Nanaimo, on the former site of Chase River Motors.
It will be the fourth store owned by the Cobble Hill based brothers, and will employ 60 workers. Pacific Building Systems also owns Cobble Hill-based Pacific Homes, which was recently awarded a $4 Million contract to build 48 town homes which are headed to Ulan Bator, Mongolia.
City frequent user of VICC
NANAIMO – Thus far, the City of Nanaimo is the biggest user of the Vancouver Island Conference Centre (VICC).
The City already has the centre booked for 30 events this year, with each event costing taxpayers a minimum of $1,000.
Atlific Hotels and Resorts is the operator of the VICC, and receives a 9% fee on bookings. From last June to December the VICC generated $800,000, less than the 12 month forecast of $978,000.

Low-flow toilets for Nanaimo
NANAIMO – The City of Nanaimo has decided to offer rebates on low-flow toilets, in attempts to ‘go green’, as well as postpone the need for new dam that could cost between $75 and $100 Million.
The rebates are offered to individuals who buy a new low-flow toilet, and recycle their old one at the Nanaimo Recycling Exchange or the Cedar landfill. The rebate is $50 for a six-litre toilet, and $75 for a dual-flush 2-6 litre toilet.
To qualify, individuals must present proof of purchase of the new toilet, and proof of the recycled toilet. West Bay Mechanical Ltd. has developed a special program to allow customers to take advantage of the incentive.

HarbourLynx suit proceeds
NANAIMO – Nanaimo Harbour Link Corporation, which operated the defunct HarbourLynx passenger ferry service between Vancouver and Nanaimo, is continuing its $2 Million lawsuit against Cullen Diesel Power that started in April, 2007. HarbourLynx is seeking recompense for damages, expenses and losses.

Kevin O’Bryne has left Neal’s Nanaimo Chrysler and is now the sales manager at the Harris Group’s Christiansen Mazda on Bowen Road.
• • •
The funding for the new Fisheries & Oceans Research building at Vancouver Island University has been approved – an estimated $4 Million. The tender for the contractor is going out in July, 2009.
VIU also has plans to upgrade the Aztec building, Day Care building, Visual Arts building, two Environmental Studies buildings, Trades Facility and Academic building – waiting for Provincial Funding.
• • •
Plans for a major renovation of the almost 40 year old Beban Park Complex are in their early stages. The tentative design and construction schedule is set for late spring.
• • •
The Nanaimo Port Authority lift facility project has been put on hold.
• • •
An 18 unit townhouse complex is going in at Stephenson Point on Wiltshire Drive.
• • •
Steve Copp Construction building large warehouse on Bowlsby Road off Old Victoria.
• • •
Jakes Contracting from Abbotsford has been awarded the Nanaimo Airport expansion and has been quoted as saying they were committed to hiring in the Nanaimo area.
• • •
Glenda Goddard of Essex & Kent Mortgage Brokers has taken a temporary position as a Privacy and Compliance Manager for Coast Capital Savings in Surrey. Goddard will continue to offer mortgage brokerage services with Cheryl Niven.
• • •
Shear Creations is operating temporarily out of Jentri Esthetics and will relocate to a new permanent location at the shopping plaza on Metral Drive by the Days Inn.
• • •
The Globe Bar on Front Street has closed down.
• • •
There is a new Chinese buffet opening on Wallace Street called the Red Peonise Buffet beside Basque.
• • •
World of Water has opened up on Bowen Road next to ITC Computers.
• • •
City Tile has hired Chris Gibson, formerly of Dragon Tile, as a sales rep.
• • •
MacBain Properties is opening executive office rentals in the Old City Quarter, in the premises formerly occupied by Vancouver Island Tourism.
They’re hoping to open at the end of March and will have about 12 – 15 offices available for rent.
• • •
Purolator Courier has plans to build a new facility for their operations on Boxwood Road.
• • •
Shady Mile Market has closed and is being transformed into Benson Meadows Market. The new operation will be a similar concept to its predecessor, but with no animals.
• • •
Dundee Investments will be relocating to Georgia View Village across from Costco on Applecross Road.
• • •
Dairy Queen at Country Club Centre is undergoing major renovations.
• • •
Concise Systems has a new network technician in Rob Moffat.
• • •
Ben Kason is the new Manger of Information Services at Vancouver Island Regional Library.
• • •
Thompson Automotive Machine in the Northfield Industrial Park has new owners: Fraser Lee, Dave Pearce and Erik Beuk.
• • •
Peter Ertsos is the new Guest Services Manager at Woodgrove Centre.
• • •
InSight Developments has shut down construction on their Front Street condominium project for the winter and will resume in the spring.
• • •
Greg Constable’s Island West Coast Developments has his trailer parked outside the Lions Club next to St. John Ambulance building on Labieux, and plans are to construct a new office building.
IWCD is also currently building a new office on the corner of Northfield and McCullough.
• • •
Cruiseship Centers next to Moxie’s has been sold. Former owners Randy Borger and Judy Miller will stay on as sales reps.
• • •
Berk’s Intertruck is now offering truck fabrication, notes owner Brian Sabourin.
• • •
Cook’s Nook at Port Place Mall is moving to Country Club Centre in July.
• • •
Wholesale Sport Outfitters is scheduled to open in June in the old Real Canadian Wholesale building on Wellington Road, next to the Old Island Highway, just north of the new Galaxy Motors.
- Chris Cathers writes about business in Nanaimo. Tell him your story by emailing him at chris@businessvi.ca

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:27:48 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=604 Cultural centre for Port Alberni?
PORT ALBERNI – A multi-Million dollar aboriginal culture building could be in the future of Clutesi Haven Marina.
The Tsu-ma-as Transformation Centre has been discussed at length by the Hupacasath First Nation, Port Alberni Port Authority and the City of Port Alberni for years.
The total price of the project is $4.4 Million, which would be funded in part by the federal and provincial governments, contributing $1.7 Million, Island Coastal Economic Trust$1.7 Million, and the Hupacasath $1 Million.

Opportunities for Harbour Quay?
PORT ALBERNI – Beck Environmental Services Ltd. of Vancouver has started test drilling the site of the former Columbia Fuels tank farm at Harbour Quay.
The drilling is to determine if the area can be sold for redevelopment, or if it is too contaminated and needs to be fenced off. Shell Canada owns the site, which has been shut down since May, 2008.

DCC bylaw to go before council
PORT ALBERNI – Developers in Port Alberni could soon be subject to Development Cost Charges (DCCs), as the City has written a proposed bylaw to implement the charges.
Port Alberni is one of only a few B.C. cities that don’t currently have DCC’s. The proposal calls for $6,213 for a single family unit, and $49 per square foot of commercial space. That is lower than Ucluelet, which charges $12,882 and $66.

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:24:11 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=603 Multi-Million Marina for Victoria?

By Goody Niosi Writer

VICTORIA - Victoria International Marina is poised to make a multi-million dollar impact on the city.
The project, which had its beginnings in 1988, is finally coming to fruition. Robert Evans, vice president of Community Marine Concepts Ltd. that is responsible for the project in partnership with Western Asset Management Development Group, says that he expects to begin construction later this summer with completion in 2010.
In 1988, Evans was a partner in Pacific National Investments that purchased the 16 acres at the entrance to Victoria’s Inner Harbour from the province. At the time, the land was substantially different than it is today, Evans says.
“The land had to be restored. There was a city garbage dump, a coal yard, barge landing site, an old shingle mill – all sorts of things.”
The 1984 plan for the Songhees was a collaboration between the City of Victoria and the province with Pacific National Investments taking part in the finalization of the plan in 1988. Under a joint agreement, Evans’ company paid to clean the site and bring in services. The company also put in parks and the waterfront walkway.
“It cost millions,” Evans says, adding that the marina was always part of the plan. Evans points out that the marina buildings will occupy only 60 metres of the waterfront walkway, making the waterfront as accessible to the public as always.
When Evans’ company purchased the land, it also bought the rights to build the marina with the city guaranteeing the zoning. One of the purposes of the Marina is to give the neighbourhood a focus, Evans says.
“Right now the Songhees is all residential – no commercial. So the town centre is going to be the marina site. We’re putting in a coffee house and a restaurant and a marine interpretive centre.”
Victoria International Marina will offer only 50 berths when completed but those berths are intended to attract the world’s luxury yachts. Community Marine Concepts has already paid out about $2 Million to local consultants and engineers to make sure they get it right.
Evans notes that Yacht Path International, the world’s biggest transporter of luxury yachts, recently named Victoria one of the 12 most desirable yacht destinations in the world. Yacht Path is advertising that fact everywhere, Evans says, and that is bound to attract the luxury vessels to the city.
In order to be ready to respond to the influx of yacht tourism, business people from British Columbia, Alaska and Washington have joined together to form the Can-Am Oceanic Yacht Alliance (COYA). In their latest meeting on March 7, the group strategized marketing plans for the area.
“You can’t buy that kind of exposure,” Evans says. “The future existence of the marina is the catalyst that got a lot of this going.”
Evans says that he certainly expects to profit from the marina but his bigger interest is in the economy of the city. He admits that he is passionate about Victoria and about contributing to its success.
“Victoria is very special,” he says. “One of the best analogies might be, ‘The Monaco of North America.’ When you look down the harbour at the Empress and the Legislature buildings, there’s no finer view on the planet. And we have a working harbour and we need to capitalize on that.”
He adds that Victoria International Marina will generate a significant amount of money locally. Each luxury yacht that makes its home at the marina for a year generates about $2.5 Million in income just to pay for operations and maintenance.
Many luxury yachts are also in the charter business, going for about $30,000 - $40,000 per week. Charter yachts generate about $5.5 Million per year in income.
“By the time this project is mature, it should produce about $50 Million a year in economic impact,” Evans says.
As for the even bigger picture, he says, “It’s a 25 – 50 year venture that will benefit Victoria for the next 100 years. Cities have to be alive. There hasn’t been a major attraction that provides an international market draw in Victoria’s harbour for years – and this is it.”
Community Marine Concepts Ltd. is at 1244 Muirfield Place, Unit 104 in Victoria.
www.victoriainternationalmarina.ca

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:19:57 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=602
National Geographic picks out PA’s Batstar

By Goody Niosi Writer

PORT ALBERNI - For residents of Vancouver Island, world class adventure lies in their own back yard.
Port Alberni’s Batstar Adventure Tours was recently named one of the best adventure travel companies on earth by National Geographic Adventure magazine. Batstar joined an illustrious group of 200 international companies in receiving the honour and was the only such company to be recognized on Vancouver Island and the only sea kayaking company to achieve the honour on the West Coast.
Co-owners Blake and Rhonda Johnson say they were thrilled when they heard they had been named by the magazine and the thrill has not worn off in the past few weeks. Rhonda Johnson notes that even being invited to apply for the honour by the Canada Tourism Commission was an honour.
“We went through a very detailed and very thorough application process,”
Rhonda Johnson says. “It covered everything from our camping practices to our cultural integrity to sustainability to business practices to our staff and client satisfaction – everything.”
Based on the success of that application, Batstar was then required to submit a list of clients – not hand-picked – that National Geographic contacted. When the rigorous examination was completed, Batstar came out with a 90.5 per cent rating.
“As a very small company we’re very proud of that,” Johnson says. “It’s also great because we found little areas where we can grow.”
What makes Batstar Adventure Tours so special? Johnson says it isn’t necessarily what they do, it’s how they do it. “We love what we do and I hope that maybe that makes the difference. We are really passionate about this and we have always focussed on what we know.”
What Batstar Adventure Tours knows is fully guided, deluxe, detail oriented, all-inclusive guided outdoor tours – generally sea kayak tours of the West Cost. Johnson stresses that when she says “all-inclusive” it really means that everything is taken care of. All a client has to do is pack clothing and show up on the appointed day.
“The way we look at it is that we try to do everything we can to take care of all the details for our guests,” Johnson says. “Our guests are very busy people and both Blake and I came for the corporate world so we understand how time crunched people are.
“Everyone should have a chance to go on a trip like that because it allows you to stop multi-tasking and it allows people to stop thinking one hour ahead about what has to be done next.”
Guests spend their time exploring the outdoors, camping in luxury tents and putting aside all their other cares and worries. Johnson says that people just glow with health  and serenity when they return from a week long or even a weekend trip.
She notes that most of the company’s trips are one-week durations although they also offer 10 day expeditions and occasional day trips in the Alberni Valley.
The Johnsons founded their company in 1999. They were both living in Edmonton in the early 90s. Rhonda had a successful career as a lawyer while Blake worked as a graphic artist.
They both loved the outdoors and took trips to Vancouver Island as often as possible. Eventually friends began to ask if they could come along and Rhonda  discovered she enjoyed organizing the trips. She also began putting together corporate trips for her company and  they evolved, almost organically into the company they own today.
In 2001 the couple moved to Port Alberni to devote themselves to Batstar Adventure Tours full time. The company is very successful, Johnson says and employs exceptional guides, who have had a large hand in bringing international recognition to the company.
Johnson says that part of the credit for Batstar’s recognition also goes to the community.
“Our guests come to Port Alberni for the start and end of every trip and we are getting guests from all over the world saying we are a high quality community. The people our guests have met while they are here made a difference in our ranking.
“I want our community to feel proud and I want people on Vancouver Island to realize that our whole area is world class.”
Batstar Adventure Tours is at 4785 Beaver Creek Road in Port Alberni.
www.batstar.com

]]> Wed, 11 Mar 2009 10:18:32 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=601 $60M expansion for Hillside

VICTORIA – Victoria City Council has been presented with a development permit proposal for the Hillside Shopping Centre.
The $60 Million proposal focuses on renovating and expanding the shopping centre, and it has received a positive reception by the surrounding community.
The 7,448-square-metre expansion will add 20 new stores to the east-side of the centre, which is owned by OPB Realty Inc. The expansion will mean that the free-standing automotive building will be removed.

Coast Mountain Sports on island

VICTORIA – The former A&B Sound location on Yates Street will soon be home to a new Coast Mountain Sports retail store.
The 9,000-square-foot heritage building has been under construction for some time. Coast Mountain is owned by the Forzani Group, and sells marine and camping gear, outerwear, backpacks and hiking footwear.
The new Coast Mountain outlet will be the first on Vancouver Island, 10th in B.C. and 23rd in Canada. The Forzani Group also owns Sport Mart, Nevada Bob’s Golf, Sport Chek and Athletes World.

Strong quarter for A&W sales

VICTORIA – A&W Restaurants increased sales by 11.2% in 2008.
A strong fourth-quarter drove annual sales to $710.5 Million, the A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund reported, adding sales grew by 7.5% in the final quarter. Increased sales, according to company president Paul Hollands, are in part due to the organization’s strong relationship with baby boomers, who have grown accustomed to the brand since childhood.

Skirt Mountain project proposed

LANGFORD - A major project has been proposed for Skirt Mountain in Langford, and it seeking approval by the City’s planning, zoning and affordable housing committee.
The 84-hectare South Skirt Mountain proposal includes more than 2,800 residential units, as well as institutional and commercial structures to be built over 15 to 20 years. The project, adjacent to Goldstream Park, is estimated to be valued at around $1.7 Billion.
The group behind the proposal includes Bear Mountain Parkway Estates Ltd., owned by the Marquardt family, Totangi Properties Ltd., owned by Warren and Blair Robertson, and Skirt Mountain Village Ltd., owned by Russell Trace and Ron Coutre.
South Skirt Mountain will feature single family homes, condos, schools, commercial space, churches, and a village on the mountain’s slopes. 40% of the development will left as open space to preserve the area’s natural views, forests and wetlands.

Record year for Victoria Airport

VICTORIA - The future is looking bright for the Victoria Airport Authority, which had a record setting year in 2008.
Last year the airport saw more than $1.5 Million passengers go through its terminals, a 3.8% increase over 2007.
The Airport Authority has expansion plans for 2009, including construction that has already started on a $9.4 Million maintenance building and airport fire hall. The authority is also looking at a $23 Million upgrade of the Pat Bay Highway and McTavish Road intersection.
The Authority will also pursue a $41.2 Million expansion on its main runway. The main runway would be increased in length from 2,133 metres to 2,560 meters.
Christine Stoneman of Chemistry Consulting is the new Chair of the Authority, taking over from Gordon Denford, who served as Chair from 2007-08 and just completed eight years on the Board of Directors.
Vice Chair and Chair, Airport Consultative Committee is        Peter Bray; Board Secretary, and Chair, Governance Committee is Mel Couvelier; Chair, Audit and Finance Committee Peter Dolezal; and Chair, Planning and Development Committee                 Chad Rintoul.

Accent offering unique flight gift

VICTORIA - Accent Inns has introduced a new “gift of flight”.
Their new Flight Adventure Package is available at the Vancouver Airport location, where aspiring pilots who yearn for the thrill of commanding a complete 60-minute flight with real checklists and procedures.
The adventure takes place in a flight simulator modelled after the Boeing 737 or an Airbus 320, and is followed by a smooth landing and a relaxing “layover” in their Accent Inn Vancouver Airport hotel in Richmond.

New owners for film school

VICTORIA - The Victoria Motion Picture School has been renamed the Pacific Film & Multimedia Academy.
Local entrepreneur Oliver Drew has taken an interest in the school and intends to be the driving force behind its re-invention.
The school is in its 18th year of delivering professional training for the motion picture industry. Drew plans to have PFMA evolve, grow and constantly strive to find new technologies and skills relating to film production. PFMA will cover writing, directing, producing and editing.

New recipe at Island Chefs

VICTORIA - The Island Chefs’ Collaborative, a chef-driven organization that works to raise the profile of local food producers and supports the use of locally-grown food, elected a new executive at their recent annual general meeting.
Cory Pelan of La Piola Restaurant. was elected President.  Ken Nakano of The Fairmont Empress was elected Vice President, Alberto Pozzolo of the Italian Bakery continues as Treasurer, Candace Hartley of Dunsmuir Lodge is Secretary and David Mincey of Camille’s accepted the role of Director in charge of the Farmer Grant Program. Ken Hueston of Smoken Bones Cookshack is Past President.
The Island Chefs’ Collaborative (ICC) is a Vancouver Island-based organization comprised of member chefs who are committed to using locally-grown, sustainably produced food.
www.iccbc.ca

HR group honors excellence

VICTORIA -  of The Vancouver Island Region of BC Human Resources Management Association recognized HR professionals for achieving their Certified Human Resource Professional designation in 2008, at a January 28 event at the Union Club.
Earning the designation were:  Linda Bell of the RCMP, Catherine Best of Tourism British Columbia, Justine Brousseau of ElderSafe Support Services, Judy Collins of the Times Colonist, Bruno Dragani of Coastal Community Credit Union, Kim Foster of Vancouver Island Health Authority, Cynthia Pemberton Fuller, Mariana Gerenska of BC Public Service Agency, Debra Gibson of Sysco Victoria Inc., S. Dawn Kardos of Capital Regional District, Donna Kerkhoven of DND/CFB Esquimalt, Deborah Lang of Coastal Community Credit Union, Michelle Leduc of Vigil Health Solutions, Mason McIntyre of DND/CFN Esquimalt, Ruth Mitchell of Red Seal Recruiting Solutions, Eata Mitchuk of Hotel Grand Pacific, Debbie Nussbaum of BC Transit, Kathleen Obad, Camelia Pakzad-Vaezi of Backcheck, Janet Rowley of Fresh, Susan Ryan of Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation, Tendayi Sithole, Lisa Stark of BC Public Service Agency, Jacqueline Stephens of Camosun College, Caroline Tawell of VFC Inc., Melanie Trudel of Grant Thornton, Nicole Villeneuve of Mountain Equipment Co-op, and Helen Welch of Tourism Victoria.
The Vancouver Island Region of BC Human Resources Management reaches from Victoria to Port Hardy with a current membership of over 550 human resource professionals.

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:33:21 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=600 It is government budgeting season.

At the time of writing, the federal government was poised to release its budget and has given the public ample warning that it will be a budget with significant deficit spending. By all appearances, the provincial government’s budget set to come out in mid-February will also run a deficit. Is this good news for the country and province?
The Chamber encourages governments to maintain balanced budgets. However, the economic downturn currently upon us is quite unprecedented and calls for a different approach. It is not prudent to maintain a balanced budget in government and watch business across the country suffer as a result. 
Over the last couple of months, the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce has been involved in policy meetings with other chambers and business organizations. The majority of the groups involved support deficit budgeting in the short term if the deficits result from investing in infrastructure projects across the country.
Such investments will not only provide long-term assets that will benefit our communities for many years to come, but will also keep our skilled trade workers in the country and maintain the strengthened skills base we have developed over the recent boom period. A concern of many business sectors, particularly those that are trades-centred, is that they will loose their human resources during the downturn and not be in a position to respond when the economy bounces back.
Along the same lines, investment in skills upgrades to better position us for the emerging economy is an important part of planning for the rebound. It is likely that we will see emerging industries in new technologies and eco-energy production coming out of this recession, which will be good for our economy for the long term, and we need to capitalize on the opportunities now to prepare for those positive eventualities.
Of equal importance are measures to ensure business liquidity, such as ensuring access to capital and introducing tax measures and processes to cut expenses and red tape. One tax measure the Chamber recommended was the capital gains tax deferrals in order to encourage the re-investment of private money into the economy.
This is particularly important in real property to help encourage greater private sector involvement in the construction of rental accommodations. 
Clearly, the next couple of years will be trying for us all. We need to encourage our governments to assist where they can – ensuring access to capital, investing in infrastructure and skills for the future, and providing a better taxation environment in which business can flourish naturally.
From there, we have work to do on our own to position our own regions and communities to come out of the recession in a position of strength.
- Bruce Carter is the CEO of the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce.

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:31:29 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=599 Whyard joins Garling firm

• David Garling Barrister and Solicitor/Notary Public, at 4581 Marine Avenue, welcomes William E. Whyard to the law practice.
• January 20th marked the opening of Powell River’s first Quality Foods location, managed by Bruce Robertson. The store is located in the Crossroad Village Shopping Centre.
• Dog Gone Grooming and Boutique is the new name for the previous Grooming by Lou Anne salon, and is now owned by Jessica Medford.

• For your FREE listing in Business People, email info@businessvi.ca by February 20 for inclusion in our next edition!

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:30:25 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=598 Big changes at Ripple Rock

• A brand new staff and management are among the changes made to the Ripple Rock Pub, which is open again at #1 - 2231 South Island Highway.
• Ron May was named as the Top Salesman for the month of December at Bill Howich Chrysler RV & Marine, on 2777 North Island Highway. Kevin Greif is also congratulated upon achieving Top Salesman for 2008 at the dealership. At the 2008 Special Olympics, Bill Howich Chrysler lot attendant Dave Devison was awarded 3 gold medals in powerlifting.
• Cecil Baldry-White is congratulated on being designated as a Canadian Investment Manager for the Waterfront Group/Dundee Securities Corporation, located on 101-909 Island Highway.
• Campbell River’s city council has approved a major development permit for Barrie Brown Pontiac Buick GMC Ltd., as they plan for a new parts dealer/service centre/dealership centre, on Meredith Road and the North Island Highway.
• The new Chief Executive Officer for Rivercorp, was chosen as Adrian “Brad” Bradbury, as he was previously the company’s Manager of Economic Development and Tourism.

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:29:45 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=597
Marketing on a shoe string

• Carolyn Touhey is an award-winning marketing consultant who opened SmartBiz Strategy, a marketing consulting company in the Comox Valley. She’s teaching the “Marketing On A Shoestring” course at North Island College. For info, call the college at 250-334-5000 ext. 4602. 
• The DeLuca Veale Investment Counsel Inc. welcomes Murray Callaghan to their firm at 2082B Comox Avenue.
• Staff at Arbutus RV & Marine Sales Ltd. Courtenay commend employee Larry Epp on his 2008 Top Sales achievement.
• St. Jules Method Performance Products and Training Systems, owned by Marc St. Jules, has made a high-profile client as Dale Purinton, previously with the New York Ranger NHL hockey team, has come to learn at the facility.
• Ray Francis of the Courtenay Coast Realty Group, was inaugurated as the new president for the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board.
• After 68 years and countless years serving British Columbia, Stan Hagen, MLA of Comox Valley, has passed on. He was honored with a memorial service attended by over 2,000 people, including Premier Gordon Campbell.
• Brian McLean Chevrolet, at 2145 Cliffe Avenue, welcomes Bruce Langlands onto their team of Sales Consultants. Mike Paroshy is also congratulated upon achieving Salesperson of the Month for December.
• A new clinic for the Comox Valley Nursing Centre is now open on the corner of Grieve Avenue and 10th Street. The nursing manager for the location is Patricia Foster.
• The Velvet Underground Hair Group at 254-101 Simms Lane, have hired on a new stylist, Laura, to join their team.
• Dr. Hoekstra has joined the clinic of Eyes on the Harbour Optometrists, on 1805 Comox Avenue.
• Brand new to Comox, the Surgenor Brewery, owned by Bob Surgenor, is finally open, and has already begun the brewing their first batch.
• Matthew Low is welcomed as a new associate lawyer to the law corporation of Swift Datoo & Company, on 201-467 Cumberland Road.
• Courtenay’s Trendsetters Consignment Clothing Co. on 475 Cliffe Avenue, is now owned by Anna Palumbo.
• The corner of Cliffe Avenue and 17th Street now holds a new location for The Investor’s Group.
• Victor Anasimiv has joined the group at Dominion Lending Centres as a mortgage specialist.

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:28:53 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=596 Big deal for golfer Little

• Jackie Little, amateur golfer and part owner of Hollies Executive Golf Course, was named as one of the top women amateur golfers in North America for her accomplishments.
• The new Aroma Restaurante at 4264 10th Avenue, is now open to customers. Delicious Italian dishes are served, including entrees and pasta dishes.
• Barlow’s Home Entertainment Centre on 520 3rd Avenue, owned by Keith Adams and Ken Barlow, celebrates their 40th year in business serving the community.
• The Pennyworth has changed locations, and will now be serving at the 4918 Napier Street address.
• Harbour Pizza Factory on 5010 Argyle Street, has changed ownership and now offers fresh pizza dough ready for purchase to customers. 
• The Port Alberni Port Authority’s Jason Penner was chosen to act as a ‘go-between’ for the Holland America and Residensea World cruise ship lines, docking this year in Port Alberni.

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:28:06 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=595 Brown-Eyed Susan’s opens

• Brown-Eyed Susan’s has opened at 210 West Second Ave, Unit 1 in Qualicum Beach. Rick Williams and Brenda McConnell have re-located this store from Ontario. The store sells fashion accessories, lingerie, sleepwear and beachwear.
• Hosting Nation Data Inc. at 201-160 Corfield Street in Parksville is calling on businesses and individuals from the Central and North Vancouver Island regions to help raise funds for regional BC SPCA organizations in the central Island.  Their goal is to raise $10,000 in donations by March 31 by donating half of all hosting fees from new clients signed up during this period.www.hosting-nation.ca/spca.
• The Qualicum Beach Chamber of Commerce is please to announce Anton Kruyt as the 2008 recipient of its Lifetime Achievement Award, sponsored by Coastal Community Credit Union. The Community Awards are February 18 at the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre.
• Martyn Engineering Ltd. with their Mid Island location at #2-180 West 2nd Avenue, owned by Mike Newton, has joined R.F. Binnie & Associates Ltd.
• Ron Cantelon, MLA for Nanaimo-Parksville, has been appointed as the Minister of Agriculture and Lands, by Premier Gordon Campbell.

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:26:44 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=594
Lewis joins West Bay


• West Bay Mechanical Ltd. on 2215 McGarrigle Road, is pleased to welcome Joe Lewis to their team. The company now provides 24 hour cooling, heating, and plumbing services to clients. • La-Z-Boy Furniture will be building a new warehouse on Boxwood Road in Nanaimo.
• Chris Turnbull and Rick Bayko have purchased a new future home for their Den Mar Electric Ltd. company. It will be beside the new location of West Bay Mechanical Ltd., which is at 2215 McGarrigle Road.
• Chris Erb of SupErb Construction and a number of other companies are busy building a 20 unit affordable housing project at the corner of Meredith and Bowen Road.
• Naturopathic Physician Dr. Marianne Trevorrow notes the Inspired Health Clinic at 11-321 Wesley Street had three new practitioners: Jennifer Hewko, RM, a registered midwife; Karyn-grace Clarke, IBCLC, a certified lactation consultant, and Angela Slade, CYC, a certified youth counsellor and coach.
• Vancouver Island Furniture has been forced to close its location at 6461 Metral Drive, as their franchise agreement has been ended, and their lease abolished.
• The Western Financial Group was joined by Bakes-Jarvie Agencies, as the largest insurance network in Western Canada, on January 1.
• The grand opening was celebrated for Nanaimo’s Full On Fitness location at 2030 Boxwood Road.
• Livleen Kaler has taken over the responsibilities of Robert Pilz as vice president and CFO of finance, at Response Biomedical Corp.
• The staff at Peak Communicators welcome two new employees, Melissa Orozco and Linda Munro, to work as consultants with the company.
• Wheaton GM at 2375 Hayes Road applauds Christopher Tarala as their Top Sales Person for the month of December.
• The BCHL All-Star game in 2010 will be held by the Nanaimo Clippers, led by general manager and head coach Bill Bestwick.
• Nanaimo’s new dental practice, Allsbrook Dental Centre, is operated by Dr. Richard Cloutier, and it’s address is 1009-Unit 7 Allsbrook Road.
• After years of service for Rickwood’s Menswear, owned by Derek Rickwood, Marg Thompson has decided to retire her position with the store.
• Sean Krause has sold his Nanaimo Junior A Timbermen lacrosse team to Tyson Leies - head coach, Dave Bremner and Paul Meakes - assistant coaches, and Forbes Mitchell - general manager.
• The Top Salesperson for 2008 at Arbutus RV & Marine Sales Ltd. Nanaimo, was employee Robert Ham.
• The honor of B.C.’s Person of the Year in residential construction, was awarded to Doug Bromage of InSight Developments.
• Dan Sigouin, an investment advisor for RBC Dominion Securities at 101-5050 Uplands Drive, was recently promoted to Vice-President of the Nanaimo branch.
• The reception team at Island Veterinary Hospital welcomes Melissa Pequin to their Bowen Road location.
• Guy Pedden has been bumped up from his position as Service Advisor, to Parts Manager at Woodgrove Chrysler, located  at 6800 Island Highway North.
• The Society of Notaries Public of British Columbia has named Tiah Workman of Nanaimo, as their second vice president.
• An award for outstanding quality standards was issued to Nanaimo’s Best Western Dorchester Hotel, on behalf of the Best Western company.
• Sun Life Financial, at Suite 202- 5800 Turner Road, welcomes Cory Betz to their professional team.
• A new doctor is available at Anchor Family Medicine on 1450 Waddington Road, as Dr. Peter Metrowich settles in.
• ScotiaMcLeod’s Greenard Group, comprised of Kevin and Keith Greenard, have broadened their services to reach Nanaimo and its nearby area.

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:26:08 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=593
New Savings branch open

• The new Cowichan Commons Island Savings branch is now open, with Karen Colquhoun as branch manager, and Betty Callaway as insurance manager.
• Smitty’s Family Restaurant has opened to the pubic, at 5325 Trans Canada Highway.
• Bernard James, owner of Whippletree Country Auctions, recently filed for bankruptcy, putting him out of business.
• Vancouver Island’s largest independent real estate company, Pemberton Holmes Real Estate, welcomes Brad Barr onto their realty team. Dan Johnson is congratulated upon reaching the top 10% of Pemberton Holmes for 2008.
• For the seventh year in a row, Steve Aydon has been named Salesman of the Year at Peter Baljet GM, on 6300 Trans Canada Highway. Jerry Deol has achieved Salesman of the Month for December.
• Jason Foster is welcomed back to the Metro Toyota Duncan dealership, at 6529 Trans-Canada Highway.
• Plans to build a coffee-roasting facility for the Salt Spring Coffee Company, are met with protest from neighboring Saltspring islanders. Concerns as to the environment surrounding the coffee plant are still being expressed.
• The New BowMel Chrysler dealership, at 461 Trans Canada Highway, congratulates Kent Fortin on achieving top sales for the 2008 year, and Colin Wilkinson for being named Top Salesman for the month of December.
• Cori McCaw has recently signed on as a member of The Mortgage Centre, on 1-2628 Beverly Street, after previously working at Jardine Parkinson Mortgage Corp.
• John Horgan, semi-retired owner of Discovery Honda has sold 70 per-cent of the business to Peter Baljet, a GM dealer.
• A new indoor canine training and daycare facility called Cedar Ridge Complete Canine Care is now open for business.

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:25:16 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=592 Bigrigg opens Argosy firm

• President Douglas Bigrigg is pleased to note that Argosy Communications Products Ltd. is now open at 1121 Baldwin Place. The company provides independent manufactures representation for Land Mobile Radio (LMR) Communication manufactures located worldwide. Daniels Electronics Ltd. has appointed Argosy as their Canadian Manufacturers Representative.
• Victoria Foundation Chair Chuck Burkett is pleased to note the Board has three new members: Heather Raven, Deirdre Roberts and Bob Worth. Ian Izard continues his role as President of the Honorary Governors.
• Del Elgersma and Lianne Macdonald are the owners of Beacon Law Centre, which has opened a new office in the heart of Brentwood Bay on West Saanich Road.
• Jessica Moulson is the CEO of Vibes Fitness, a fitness facility specializing in whole body vibration therapy that has just opened at 1821 Fort Street in the Jubilee Center.
• Businessman and author Hugh Carter is publishing his second book on an up to the minute strategy for retirement preparation. For info see 4infor@pension paradigm.com.
• An Artemis PR & Design website won gold at the Georgie Awards. The website, www.gemiller.ca, won a Gold Georgie Award in the category Best Website by a Canadian Home Builders’ Association of BC Member. The award was handed out at CHBA BC’s annual Georgie Awards program on January 31.
• Shelagh Rinald has relocated her practice, Rinald Tax Advisory Inc., to 841 Yates Street and continues to specialize in providing tax advisory services to individual and family enterprise.
• Dr. Cheryl Cuddeford’s General Medical Practice, which specializes in seniors’ health, has moved to Westwind Medical Clinic at #107-755 Goldstream Ave.
• Doug Ransom has joined the staff of Canaccord Capital as an Investment Advisor.
• Two of Iris Laser Eye Surgery’s locations have added to their staff. Dr. Justin Epstein, an Optometrist has joined the team at 1964 Fort Street, while Dr. Netty Sutjahjo and Dr. Lesley Bursey, also optometrists, have signed on to the 2423 Beacon Avenue location in Sidney.
• Hamid Salimian of Bear Mountain has won the gold medal in the Culinary Olympics at Erfurt, Germany. Salimian competed in a large stadium that housed three full kitchens, and made a three course meal for 110 people.
• Arbutus RV and Marine Sales Ltd. has named Ken Carstensen the top salesperson of 2008. Carstensen works at the Sydney branch.
• Little Thai Place had its grand opening on January 31st at #137-2745 Veterans Memorial Parkway.
• Grant Thornton, at 888 Fort Street has promoted both Kent Fullarton and Dawn Tipton to senior manager, and have welcomed Mike Stubbing as a partner in the firm.
• DFH Real Estate has named three employees realtors of the year. In Victoria, Rich Couvelier has been named, Ron Maber has been named in West Shore, and Tim Beaumont in Sidney.
• David Rusen, a long time realtor, has joined the team at ReMax Alliance. Contact him at 250-386-8875.
• The Westshore office of Pemberton Holmes has moved to a new location at Hatley Park Plaza, #112-2244 Sooke Road.
• Carol Hamilton, Steve Howe, Kyara Kahakauwila, and Corrine Thompson, all local businesspeople, have been elected to the WestShore Chamber of Commerce.
• Cruise Holidays Pacific, owned by Rhonda Parker, is having it’s grand re-opening after the store-front was destroyed in a fire on Oak-Street last April. It’s new location is at 270-2950 Douglas Street.
• Island Coastal Economic Trust has elected Barry Janyk as it’s chairman.
• A Distinguished Alumni Award has been given to VanCity Credit Union chief executive Tamara Vrooman, and Bob de Faye, deputy minister of aboriginal relations and reconciliation. This will happen at the University of Victoria.
• Health Point Consulting is being opened by Dr. Jason Walker. For more information, call 250-590-3713.
• Previously a dining room manager for the Fairmont Empress, Pamela Sanderson was named as the regional general manager for Cascadia Liquor Stores.
• Brent Jordan is the new account manager and business developer for Revenue Wire, after previously being involved with the Victoria Advanced Technology Council.
• People’s Pharmacy is a new venture for Debbie and Ali Laal, and can be located at 890 Esquimalt Road. 
• The new chief executive officer and president of University of Victoria’s Innovation Development Corporation, is Brent Sternig.
• Suburbia Advertising welcomes Catherine Hamilton to work as their special projects representative and account management.

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:24:33 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=591 Cole opens business for boats

After 19 years in the marine business, Rob Cole has opened up his own mobile business Island Time Boat Tops.
Cole was born and raised in Port Alberni and felt there was a void that he wanted to fill. He stands behind his product and gives West Coast Quality service.
“I specialize in marine products. I know the boats from the bottom up,” he says. “When the tall ships came to Port Alberni I was asked if I could repair the jib sail on the HMCS Oriole and I did.”
Cole has not limited himself to boat tops but also made an enclosure for LB Woodchoppers.
His specialty is boat tops and vinyl coverings such as the seats in the boat. He has a mobile sewing unit, makes custom canvas, marine vinyl, commercial upholstery, outdoor enclosures and fifth wheel and RV skirting.
• • •
Krystal Freeman and husband Jay are avid fishers and have opened Twin City Seafood in the Adelaide Shopping Centre on Johnston Road in North Port Alberni.
Krystal says “I noticed that Port Alberni didn’t have many retail outlets for seafood so decided to open one.”
They carry a wide variety of seafood such as live lobsters, crabs, clams and oysters. They also have wild fresh scallops, halibut, salmon, snapper, sole and shrimp.
These items are all local, with the only exception being lobsters and king crab.
• • •
Capelli Hair Gift and Home Décor is celebrating their 29th anniversary in business in the valley.
Owner/operator Rose Low Dirocco first started the business in the Alberni Mall that was on Johnston Road, and after a few moves, the business has settled in Victoria Quay in North Port Alberni. They recently added full esthetics with a certified esthetician, Sherrie.
Low Dirocco started out with herself and one other stylist and an assistant. By the end of the first year she had 7 stylists, and she now has a staff of 15. They are also a great place to get the coveted webkinz. The gift selection is unique and there is a wide variety.
• • •
Todd Kacsmar has opened a new restaurant in Port Alberni Aroma on the corner of 10th Avenue and Rogers Street.
The food is mostly Mediterranean and specialtizes in steak and pasta. They also offer appetizers, salads, seafood and vegetarian meals.
Kacsmar moved to Port Alberni from Ontario where he took his training at George Brown College in Toronto. He has been in the restaurant industry for 19 years, including two in Europe.
All sauces and soups are made from scratch and they have daily lunch and dinner specials. Guests can dine by candlelight, with fresh flowers on the table and jazz playing in the background. Manageress is Christina Lynch.
• • •
Doug Tilley recently took over the business of making wiener sticks for campers from Joe Gardner and has named the business Tilley Sticks.
They are made with cedar handles, nail steel shafts and stainless steel forks, and are great for roasting wieners but also for marshmallows - and smores.
Tilley will soon be making the fork backwards to make them even safer for people to use. They are currently available at Quality Foods, Extra Foods, Petro Canada and  campsites.
- Sonja Drinkwater writes about business in Port Alberni. Tell her your story by contacting her at 250-723-4306.

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:22:57 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=590 Coffee Shop Views New Horizons

Pacific Brimm Coffee and Tea Co. is a well established charming coffee house in the heart of Parksville.
Gary Child and his wife Renata have made this the pace to be and could have easily be satisfied with their success. But in December they opened another quaint café on the outskirt of town called Quick-Brimm.
As Gary was opening the door to this new place, he decided to build “Coffee Kiosks” and enter into the franchise market. One might find a K-Brimm in a neighborhood soon.
• • •
Black & White Party Rentals (bwparty.com) started renting tables, linens and dishes 16 years ago.
Dave Willie and partner Ian Livingston spend their lives at parties. They recently invested $750,000 in a new state of the art facility to house their  equipment and set-up displays to demonstrate how he can turn events, parties, weddings…etc. into fabulous, scrumptious affairs.
Dave travels up and down Vancouver Island making dreams come true. He has also transported his equipment to stage events in Vegas.
I said it before, “We are special!” It could be because of the coffee from Pacific Brimm or the parties from Black&White. Who knows? There is this feeling of confidence and optimism which permeates into our businesses and our people in general.
The USA just elected a new leader and we can feel a wave of energy sweeping that country. If they keep the momentum, it could make a huge difference for everyone, including us in Canada. In Parksville, we would be happy to ride this wave.
Anton Checkhov said: “Man is what he believes”. I personally endorse this statement but I also realize that belief and passion can be overwhelming unless you have the energy to take the first step forward when others are retreating. As the Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce, I am proud to work side by side with entrepreneurs who are charging forward. Here are two more businesses who represent the Parksville spirit.
• • •
The Glassies – Parksville’s Community Awards, are set for March 6. For tickets call Linda at 250-248-3613.
• • •
Members of the Oceanside Resort Community, and the City of Parksville, are pleased to introduce Parksville Uncorked – Wine & Culinary Festival, February 27-March 1.
The City will come alive with gala events, wine tasting brunches and winemakers’ dinners that will take place at The Beach Club Resort, Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre and Pacific Shores Nature Resort.
- Mike Bourcier is Executive Director of the Parksville & District Chamber of Commerce.

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:19:33 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=589

Mike O'Hare new manager of the Kingfisher Resort

Welcome to the new manager of the Kingfisher Oceanside Resort, Mike O’Hare.
• • •
Congratulations to our Spirit Committee in securing the the Olympic torch relay to travel through the Comox Valley. Great job!
• • •
The TD Bank is pleased to announce the appointment of Roman Rybski as the new Small Business Advisor.
• • •
Ken Dawson, Chair of the Comox Valley Airport Commission, is pleased to announce the recent appointment of Judith Round to the Commission.
• • •
ValleyLinks, a gateway to the Comox Valley and home of Volunteer Comox Valley - has moved to 310 Puntledge Road in Courtenay.
• • •
97.3 The Eagle radio is now streaming online at www.973theeagle.com.
• • •
Congratulations to MISTIC award winners: Information Technology Service - My Tech Guys, Value Added Products - Woodland Flooring, Aquaculture; Shellfish - Pentlatch Seafoods and finalist in New Media - Lost Boys Learning.
• • •
Chucks Trucks is now a BCAA Approved Repair Centre and boasts about their 98% approval rating.
• • •
Jacob’s Well of downtown Courtenay is proud of their new web site: www.jabobs-well.ca.
• • •
In 2009, we need to change the way we think about doing business. Social networks online continue to grow, sites such as Facebook increase networking opportunities, now is the time for business to embrace another option in communicating with their customers. These are just a few options available to Chamber members.
Small business owners need to re-connect with other business owners to continue to grow. Networking is still one of the easiest ways to meet a new customer and focus on business development. Networking, combined with getting out to local groups and getting involved in your community, are great ways to grow a small business.
Smart networkers win in business. Networking is about using what you have and relating to people in a variety of different environments. As a networker, you understand the importance of being positive, offer business value added services and maintain a positive outlook on life and in business.
Business owners who get out and mingle, meet, greet, offer value and advice generally make the world a better place.
Thanks to Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce president Gen McNamee for this!
- Dianne Hawkins is Executive Director of the Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce. She can be reached at dhawkins@comoxvalleychamber.com

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:18:16 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=588 Two Farmers Markets merge

The Cowichan Region’s two largest farmer’s markets have merged into one.
The Duncan Farmer’s Market which was previously at the BC Forest Discovery Centre and the Market in the Square in downtown Duncan have merged into one market that will be in the Duncan city square. The new market will spill over onto Craig Street to accommodate the more than 100 vendors that are expected to participate in the 2009 season.
According to Marv Carver, Chair of the Market in the Square, the new market promises to be bigger and better with the additional vendors and on-going entertainment during the summer. The market is scheduled to start up in late March.
• • •
Economic Development Cowichan (EDC) has launched a new web site that includes a resource directory for Cowichan businesses.
The resource directory provides a valuable resource to the region and it replaces a previous directory that was difficult to keep updated. The new resource directory allows the business to submit their business information on-line and the information will be kept up to date with a yearly email reminder.
www.discovercowichan.com and click on Economic Development.
• • •
Economic Development Cowichan has received funding from Invest Canada Community Initiatives to explore the clean technology sector and develop initiatives to enhance and attract clean technology companies to the Cowichan Region.
Results are expected by March and BMC Business Management Consultants and TFC Consulting Ltd. have been hired to complete the study. For more information contact Kathy at 250-746-7880 ext. 248.
• • •
The average house price in the Cowichan Region for December, 2008 was $350,223 up slightly from $346,718 in December 2007. The median house price of $365,000 was highest of all Vancouver Island regions outside of the Victoria market.
The number of units sold was down from 42 in December 2007 to 21 in December 2008.
- Kathy Lachman is Business Development Officer for the Cowichan Region Economic Development Commission. she can be reached at klachman@cvrd.bc.ca

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:16:51 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=587 Changes at local legal firm

Changes in the legal service sector include a move by lawyer, Stacey MacCausland, from Johnston & Company to Villani and Company.
John Sinclair retired in December, who has served as lead Crown Counsel. Ian Tully Barr has assumed the position.
• • •
Save-On Foods recently completed its makeover, and now Quality Foods has opened it doors.
Located in the Crossroads Shopping Centre, QF provides Powell River residents another grocery option.
• • •
Congratulations are in order for Leanne Penner on the launch of her new business, Ignite Design.
• • •
Congratulations to Shirley Martin on the opening of Martin’s Housekeeping. Shirley brings with her a solid background as a chambermaid in the hospitality sector.
• • •
Theden Forest Products and Compuwood Manufacturing Ltd. have had their products chosen for display in BC Showcase during the 2010 Olympics and Paralympic Winter Games. The showcase is a medium for exhibiting some of BC’s outstanding goods and craftsmanship.
• • •
Bill and Linda Fonseca are the victims of their own success. The owners of Centsible-Two have decided to close the Townsite location and amalgamate the business in their Marine Avenue location. They’re inviting all their customers to visit them in Westview.
• • •
Lisa Beeching of Lisa’s Bookkeeping recently moved from Townsite’s Rodmay Hotel to her new location on Marine Avenue.
• • •
Vancouver Island University– Powell River Campus presented its new Custom Training program at the January Chamber of Commerce luncheon. The program offers options for local employers who are interested in customized training for current and potential employees.
www.viu.ca and click on the Powell River campus.
Federal MP, John Weston, also spoke at the Chamber luncheon. Powell River - Sunshine Coast MLA, Nicholas Simons will be the guest speaker in February. Be sure to make your reservations with Kim at the Chamber. The Chamber’s annual general meeting and elections will be held at the February meeting.
• • •
Former Economic Development Officer, Don Allan, now of Sunlife Financial, reports the Chamber’s group insurance plan sales greater than any ever recorded in the chamber’s history. Congratulations are also in order for Don, upon achieving a place among the Top 20 chamber sales persons in the province.
- Linda Wegner writes about business in Powell River. She can be contacted at techwriting@shaw.ca.

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:15:43 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=586

Mom is taking her books down the road.

Mom’s Book Bin is moving from her current location on St. Ann’s Road, across from Chance’s Community Gaming Centre, and is joining the crowd on Pier Street. The popular used book store is taking up residence in the old Pier Street Convenience Store location, next to KFC.
• • •
Deluca Veale Investment Counsel Inc. recently announced that Murray Callaghan has joined their team.
Well known for his community involvement and volunteerism, Murray is making the move from Edward Jones Investments on Dogwood in Campbell River.
• • •
Red Mile Resources, a Canadian capital pool company, has invested in the Myra Falls and Quinsam mines.
A royalty deal with Myra Falls’ owner Breakwater Resources (worth $18.2 Million) and Quinsam Coal’s owner Hillsborough Resources (worth $40.1 Million) gives both mines a cash infusion and Red Mile a cut of future profits.
• • •
Vancouver Island North MP John Duncan recently announced a $250,000 for the centre’s new salmon smolt testing. An additional $24,000 in funding was given to the B.C. Salmon Farmers Association, headquartered in Campbell River, to adopt expertise from New Zealand in cryopreservation techniques.
• • •
The CRTC has given final approval to Shaw Communications for the purchase of Campbell River Television.
The final handover is expected in the early part of February, with the current board overseeing the liquidation of assets and distribution of funds to the membership around the early summer.
- Sean Smith writes about business in Campbell River. He can be reached at sean@jobready.com

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:14:09 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=585 Gillingham Cabinets has opened their new showroom at 4131 Mostar Road.
Gillingham Cabinets started in Duncan, and has specialized in kitchen and bathroom cabinet manufacturing for over 20 years.
• • •
Matt Hussmann is the new managing director for the Nanaimo Downtown Partnership. Hussmann is from Washington, DC, where he spent the last 20 years in downtown revitalization and management.
• • •
Ryan Stolz, formerly with Team Gillette of Re/MAX of Nanaimo, has branched off on his own and is now with the Sutton Group on Turner Road. Stolz says he is offering a new approach to real estate investment buying and selling. www.myrealestatesolutions.ca.
• • •
Dirk Heydemann of Heydemann Art of Photography has launched his new website: www.heydemannphoto.com
• • •
Saywell Contracting is the project manager for the Regional District of Nanaimo Transit building renovation and addition.
• • •
Greg Badger is opening a new store called Funk Your Fashion at 83 Commercial Street downtown.
• • •
Tony Harris is now the sales manager at Harris Mitsubishi at 2595 Bowen Road.
• • •
Renovations are underway at the Thrifty Foods at Longwood Station, notes manager Brian Frith.
• • •
The City of Nanaimo has a number of tenders open for vehicles. The City has a new water treatment on top of their infrastructure plans, waiting for funding.
• • •
Pure Self Defense is now open on Bowen Road, across from the Nanaimo Hospital Foundation office.
• • •
Tectonica is renovating the lower floor of their building on Crace Street, kitty korner from the Buy Sell and Trade location. Tectonica will also be the contractor for the new Rexall building where Food Country was located.
• • •
More Than Movies will be opening a Video Depot in the new Co-Op convenience store.
• • •
Blue Notes in Woodgrove Centre is undergoing renovations.
• • •
Horton CBI Ltd. are the general contractors for the new Terasen gas storage plant out in Timberlands/Cassidy area.
• • •
A new Chinese festaurant will be opening beside the Basque downtown.
• • •
Subway on Bowen Road has plans for renovations.
• • •
Windley Contracting is currently building the new Spirit Square at Maffeo Sutton Park.
• • •
The Drift Restaurant is closed and will be transformed into a night club called Level 2.
• • •
The new owner of the Somerset Pub and the former Starlight Bistro is James Stolsky. Both businesses will have a name change.
• • •
Paul Manhas is expanding his liquor store in South Park Plaza in the vacated space that was the former home of a New York Style Pizza location.
• • •
Cash Store is opening another location at the Metral Station.
• • •
Wildplay is expanding in Victoria and the mainland.
• • •
Andy Schiler, a CMA, has started Controller of Call, offering outsourced controller services to businesses.
 • • •
ABC Precast & Ready Mix Ltd. has been awarded a $1.6 Million contract with SNC Lavalin to produce bridge deck panels for the Coast Meridian Overpass in Coquitlam.
• • •
Peter Ertsos was reported last issue that he was opening a deli in the Old City Quarter, which is not the case. Ertsos is currently working as a consultant in Victoria and the lower mainland.
 - Chris Cathers writes about business in Nanaimo. He can be contacted at chris@businessvi.ca.

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 09:12:44 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=584 Some benefits from tighter job market

Mark MacDonald Publisher


We’ve been hearing for years now about the looming skill shortage. Canada was facing a dearth of trained workers, and would be unable to fill all the positions that would be created in the marketplace, particularly as Baby Boomers retire.
Well, a strange thing happened on the way to today. The economy stopped growing as it had grown accustomed to. Remember “Freedom 55” and the goal of retiring 10 years younger than the mandatry 65 years of age? For some, it’s been replaced by Freedom 75, thanks to pensions and retirement income diminished by a shrinking stock market.
Will that skill shortage be as pronounced as expected? Eventually, yes. People can’t work forever, and they’re entitled to the retirement they’ve worked towards for so long. But if they can’t afford it, then they’ll probably delay it for awhile.
Retirement is a worthy destination, but is it really that enjoyable for everyone? Particularly those who have no hobbies or interests outside the office. There are more than a few stories about retirees who struggle mightily with having “nothing to do all day”, and even worse, pass on before they can even enjoy the “golden years”.
I suspect that some Baby Boomers will opt to stay on their jobs for longer. And that’s not a bad thing for employers. Not only will they be able to delay the inevitable re-training of new staffers in the short term, but because there are less jobs in the marketplace, they can be more selective about whom they hire. And they won’t have to pay a king’s ransom to sign new workers, who in an overheated marketplace might have multiple jobs to choose from and play one anxious employer off another, to drive up the bids for their services.
Good, well trained workers are hard to find. Employees that have worked in an industry or for a company for a number of years amass a wide variety of skills, information, experience, friends and contacts almost by osmosis, that simply can’t be easily replaced by a fresh-faced newcomer, no matter how enthusiastic they may be. A lot leaves a company when a veteran manager or top salesperson walks out the door.
Employers know what they’re getting with a Baby Boomer, and the work ethic that age group possesses. More than a few owners and managers believe the next generation of workers comes with question marks. The young’uns often come with a profound sense of entitlement, and don’t yet understand the meaning of hard work, so critical to the success of any company.
The skill shortage is coming, but perhaps not so soon now.
Last year, the Canadian Transportation Agency ordered airline companies to provide free extra seating for disabled and obese travelers who required it. In January, Air Canada and WestJet responded by introducing a policy that will require a doctor’s note from passengers seeking the extra seat, first.
Some might see the doctor’s note as embarrassing, and there will be complaints. It is Canada, after all. But in regards to obesity, perhaps the airline companies can make some mileage out of this. 
The TV show “The Biggest Loser”, is a fascinating, inside look of how obese people conquer inner demons and cravings, unveiling a whole new “them” that they can admire and feel good about.
But how do they get there? Counselling, diet, and lots and lots of exercise. They learn to eat less and eat right, and they sweat the pounds off under the watchful eye of expert personal trainers. The results are amazing, and transforming.
If someone put together a Canadian version of “The Biggest Loser”, perhaps the airline companies sponsor it. There’d be lost of “Biggest Winners” in that scenario.

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2009 08:38:55 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=583 $60M expansion for Hillside

VICTORIA – Victoria City Council has been presented with a development permit proposal for the Hillside Shopping Centre.
The $60 Million proposal focuses on renovating and expanding the shopping centre, and it has received a positive reception by the surrounding community.
The 7,448-square-metre expansion will add 20 new stores to the east-side of the centre, which is owned by OPB Realty Inc. The expansion will mean that the free-standing automotive building will be removed.

Coast Mountain Sports on island
VICTORIA – The former A&B Sound location on Yates Street will soon be home to a new Coast Mountain Sports retail store.
The 9,000-square-foot heritage building has been under construction for some time. Coast Mountain is owned by the Forzani Group, and sells marine and camping gear, outerwear, backpacks and hiking footwear.
The new Coast Mountain outlet will be the first on Vancouver Island, 10th in B.C. and 23rd in Canada. The Forzani Group also owns Sport Mart, Nevada Bob’s Golf, Sport Chek and Athletes World.

Strong quarter
for A&W sales
VICTORIA – A&W Restaurants increased sales by 11.2% in 2008.
A strong fourth-quarter drove annual sales to $710.5 Million, the A&W Revenue Royalties Income Fund reported, adding sales grew by 7.5% in the final quarter. Increased sales, according to company president Paul Hollands, are in part due to the organization’s strong relationship with baby boomers, who have grown accustomed to the brand since childhood.

Skirt Mountain project proposed

LANGFORD - A major project has been proposed for Skirt Mountain in Langford, and it seeking approval by the City’s planning, zoning and affordable housing committee.
The 84-hectare South Skirt Mountain proposal includes more than 2,800 residential units, as well as institutional and commercial structures to be built over 15 to 20 years. The project, adjacent to Goldstream Park, is estimated to be valued at around $1.7 Billion.
The group behind the proposal includes Bear Mountain Parkway Estates Ltd., owned by the Marquardt family, Totangi Properties Ltd., owned by Warren and Blair Robertson, and Skirt Mountain Village Ltd., owned by Russell Trace and Ron Coutre.
South Skirt Mountain will feature single family homes, condos, schools, commercial space, churches, and a village on the mountain’s slopes. 40% of the development will left as open space to preserve the area’s natural views, forests and wetlands.

Record year for Victoria Airport

VICTORIA - The future is looking bright for the Victoria Airport Authority, which had a record setting year in 2008.
Last year the airport saw more than $1.5 Million passengers go through its terminals, a 3.8% increase over 2007.
The Airport Authority has expansion plans for 2009, including construction that has already started on a $9.4 Million maintenance building and airport fire hall. The authority is also looking at a $23 Million upgrade of the Pat Bay Highway and McTavish Road intersection.
The Authority will also pursue a $41.2 Million expansion on its main runway. The main runway would be increased in length from 2,133 metres to 2,560 meters.
Christine Stoneman of Chemistry Consulting is the new Chair of the Authority, taking over from Gordon Denford, who served as Chair from 2007-08 and just completed eight years on the Board of Directors.
Vice Chair and Chair, Airport Consultative Committee is        Peter Bray; Board Secretary, and Chair, Governance Committee is Mel Couvelier; Chair, Audit and Finance Committee Peter Dolezal; and Chair, Planning and Development Committee                 Chad Rintoul.

Accent offering unique flight gift

VICTORIA - Accent Inns has introduced a new “gift of flight”.
Their new Flight Adventure Package is available at the Vancouver Airport location, where aspiring pilots who yearn for the thrill of commanding a complete 60-minute flight with real checklists and procedures.
The adventure takes place in a flight simulator modelled after the Boeing 737 or an Airbus 320, and is followed by a smooth landing and a relaxing “layover” in their Accent Inn Vancouver Airport hotel in Richmond.

New owners for film school

VICTORIA - The Victoria Motion Picture School has been renamed the Pacific Film & Multimedia Academy.
Local entrepreneur Oliver Drew has taken an interest in the school and intends to be the driving force behind its re-invention.
The school is in its 18th year of delivering professional training for the motion picture industry. Drew plans to have PFMA evolve, grow and constantly strive to find new technologies and skills relating to film production. PFMA will cover writing, directing, producing and editing.

New recipe at Island Chefs

VICTORIA - The Island Chefs’ Collaborative, a chef-driven organization that works to raise the profile of local food producers and supports the use of locally-grown food, elected a new executive at their recent annual general meeting.
Cory Pelan of La Piola Restaurant. was elected President.  Ken Nakano of The Fairmont Empress was elected Vice President, Alberto Pozzolo of the Italian Bakery continues as Treasurer, Candace Hartley of Dunsmuir Lodge is Secretary and David Mincey of Camille’s accepted the role of Director in charge of the Farmer Grant Program. Ken Hueston of Smoken Bones Cookshack is Past President.
The Island Chefs’ Collaborative (ICC) is a Vancouver Island-based organization comprised of member chefs who are committed to using locally-grown, sustainably produced food.
www.iccbc.ca

HR group honors excellence

VICTORIA -  of The Vancouver Island Region of BC Human Resources Management Association recognized HR professionals for achieving their Certified Human Resource Professional designation in 2008, at a January 28 event at the Union Club.
Earning the designation were:  Linda Bell of the RCMP, Catherine Best of Tourism British Columbia, Justine Brousseau of ElderSafe Support Services, Judy Collins of the Times Colonist, Bruno Dragani of Coastal Community Credit Union, Kim Foster of Vancouver Island Health Authority, Cynthia Pemberton Fuller, Mariana Gerenska of BC Public Service Agency, Debra Gibson of Sysco Victoria Inc., S. Dawn Kardos of Capital Regional District, Donna Kerkhoven of DND/CFB Esquimalt, Deborah Lang of Coastal Community Credit Union, Michelle Leduc of Vigil Health Solutions, Mason McIntyre of DND/CFN Esquimalt, Ruth Mitchell of Red Seal Recruiting Solutions, Eata Mitchuk of Hotel Grand Pacific, Debbie Nussbaum of BC Transit, Kathleen Obad, Camelia Pakzad-Vaezi of Backcheck, Janet Rowley of Fresh, Susan Ryan of Nanaimo & District Hospital Foundation, Tendayi Sithole, Lisa Stark of BC Public Service Agency, Jacqueline Stephens of Camosun College, Caroline Tawell of VFC Inc., Melanie Trudel of Grant Thornton, Nicole Villeneuve of Mountain Equipment Co-op, and Helen Welch of Tourism Victoria.
The Vancouver Island Region of BC Human Resources Management reaches from Victoria to Port Hardy with a current membership of over 550 human resource professionals.

]]> Wed, 11 Feb 2009 13:54:51 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=582 Airport runway contract awarded

NANAIMO - Nanaimo Airport has awarded a $9.1 Million contract to Jakes Construction to extend its runway from 5000’ to 6600’ and undertake associated improvements, including measures to improve the airport’s reliability. 
The work is scheduled for completion by November, 2009.Jakes Construction was the low bidder.    

MISTIC seminar: Accessing funds

NANAIMO - NANAIMO - “Accessing Money: How to Beat the Odds” seminar is the first phase of a three phase Capitalinx Program that the Mid-Island Science, Technology and Innovation Council (MISTIC) is launching in February. 
“Access to capital is a key barrier to the growth of innovative companies,” says Carolyn Tatton, Executive Director of MISTIC. “A major drawback is that many of the companies have a limited knowledge of funding sources for start-up, research, development and expansion.”
The seminar will be led by Tom O’Flaherty, former President of Bedford and Richmond Software (Maximizer) who will talk about his and others experience of overcoming financing challenges to grow very successful companies. 
The seminars run  February 17 in Duncan; February 18 in Nanaimo; and February 23 in Campbell River.  The cost is $30 per person and includes a comprehensive resource workbook.
For more information email info@mistic.bc.ca

Plans for casino expansion altered
Nanaimo Daily News

NANAIMO - The Great Canadian Casino Company will reduce hours and lay off staff at its Nanaimo casino and has said there will further delays for a planned expansion.
Blaming a soft economy, a casino spokesman described the move as a “proactive” step to head off losses during financially troubled times.
Great Canadian announced plans in May to rebuild its downtown casino by doubling floor space and adding underground parking, but in December the company said the expansion was postponed until 2010 at the earliest. Further delays are possible.
Howard Blank, spokesman for the B.C. company, would not reveal the number of jobs affected. Nor will he say what it means for the company’s long-term expansion plans.
“We have not announced any plans to scrap anything with that facility, we are just delaying it at the moment,” Blank said. “Our company has been looking for ways to improve efficiencies and streamline the way we do business across the board.”
He said cuts that started at head office are now filtering down to the gambling tables.
“There’s some layoffs and terminations occurring at that casino, as well as some other properties and our corporate office in B.C.,” Blank said.

]]> Wed, 11 Feb 2009 13:51:27 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=581 CEO Looks Forward

Mark MacDonald Publisher

COMOX VALLEY - As President and CEO of Canadian Western Bank, Larry Pollock knows a thing or two about finance.
He’s as good an authority as any on the subject, and he offered his analysis and projections at the 1st View Economic Forecasting Event at the Best Western Westerly Hotel in January. 
So, where exactly are we in this economic cycle? Has the economy hit bottom? Not quite yet. But it could be close.
“When we will hit bottom is when we know the market value of a home in the United States,” he says. “I believe we’re getting extremely close.”
Pollock pointed to figures that indicate it now takes an annual income of $36,000 to obtain a mortgage in the U.S. - up significantly from the previous, almost invisible qualification standards in the U.S. that started economic instability in North America.
“You could basically buy a home (in the U.S.) if you could fog a mirror,” says Pollock,
He doesn’t see Canada’s economy suffering like the
United States, because Canada has the “best banks in the world.”
“There’s a clause in our bank act that states you can’t have a mortgage with less than a 20 per cent down payment, unless it’s CMHC approved. Leverage is restricted, and our banking standards are high. Canadians tend to buy homes they can afford.
“For that reason, I don’t believe we’ll see the same declines that they have had in the United States.”
There is plenty of money currently sitting on the sidelines, watching what is happening with the stock market. Waiting.
“There is $8.5 Trillion in cash on the sidelines today,” he notes. “That is a staggering amount. But if we can get that money to move back into the market, it will really take off.”
The government is doing what it can to hasten that, by driving bond rates down, making it cheaper to service debt and force money into the marketplace.
“Non-government fixed rates are high. There is tremendous incentive for people to come back into the market.
“The consumer always drives the recovery,” he says, noting the stock market typically leads the recovery by six months. “We’re going to have lots of stimulus from governments on both sides of the border. That will drive inflation, though, and people on fixed incomes will pay the price down the road.”
Pollock’s presentation pointed towards the Clinton administration as the beginning of the economic unravelling in the United States. Former President Bill Clinton dreamed aloud of giving every American the opportunity to purchase their own home.
That “dream” began to be realized thanks to various incentives, as well as allowing the mortgage marketplace to run unchecked by government regulation, creating the current nightmare.
Pollock give one example where a drug addict, who had never had a job, lived in a 500 square foot shack constructed of plywood on blocks, and held a $103,000 mortgage.
“He never even had a job. That mortgage was in 15 different mortgage pools. It was unbelievable.”
With Adjustable Rate Mortgages, in some cases, customers never even made one payment. Others simply kept rolling other outstanding bills into their mortgages.
“Borrowers were, basically, financially illiterate,” he says. “They didn’t know what they were doing.”
Pools of funds containing suspect mortgages were packaged and then sold. U.S. banks bought in, and Wall Street re-packaged and sold the debt. On August 15, 2007, asset-backed paper hit the market. Mysteriously rated Triple A, they sold easily to a greedy, if not trusting, marketplace.
“The construction industry got into the game and built too much product, which drove prices up way beyond where they should have been,” he notes.
Governments over-leveraged. Oil soared to $150 per barrel. Consumers lost confidence.
“Then the market stopped buying the toxic soup,” he says. “The banks had to buy it back, but they didn’t have enough cash, so it created a liquidity crisis.”
The arrival of new U.S. President Barack Obama will help, as the promised stimulus package is expected to kick in soon. Pollock is optimistic about the new leader.
“John F. Kennedy could sell screen doors to submarines, and Obama is a little bit like that,” he says.
Pollock’s positive outlook starts with Canadian Western Bank, headquartered in Edmonton. With Canadian Direct Insurance, Canadian Western Trust and Valiant Trust Company under its wings, 1,300 employees and $11 Billion in assets, CWB has recorded 82 consecutive profitable fiscal quarters. The bank has posted double digit growth in 24 of its 25 fiscal years.
Canadian Western Bank has maintained their roots in the country’s four western provinces, and Pollock says 80 per cent of loans through the institution are commercial.
The bank has branches in Courtenay, Nanaimo and Victoria.
In 2008, which was one of the worst years ever recorded in the banking industry, CWB posted 16 per cent growth.
“People want to hear positive news,” he notes, addressing the constant stream of negativity throughout the media. “We need a ‘can do’ attitude.”
Pollock believes there’s good news for employers on the labour front.
“You can find good people now,” he says. He recalls that in recent years in Alberta, employers were desperate for anyone to work at their companies, almost to the point where “the next foreman is the next guy to come through the door without booze on his breath.”
At home, B.C., in particular, is in better shape than most to handle a downturn, with low unemployment, GDP growth, busy ports and a trade surplus. The province is flush with commodities.
“We’re a productive, hard working people,” he notes. “The only limitation is our imagination, at the end of the day. And chaos breeds opportunity.”

]]> Wed, 11 Feb 2009 13:45:02 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=580 Economic forum rolls out Langford tax relief plan

Mark MacDonald Publisher

LANGFORD - Stew Young is a businessman.
A very successful one. His Alpine Group of companies celebrates 25 years in business this year.
He’s also parlayed his business acumen into civic politics, as he was recently re-elected to yet another term as Mayor of Langford. He, along with his team of councillors and administrators, have run the city like a business, and it shows.
Since first elected in 1993, Young has managed to hold tax increases to less than two per cent. Not per year - in 16 years. And he’s not afraid to tell it, in hopes of attracting even more businesses to Langford.
Young led an Economic Forum at Bear Mountain in January, at which time he reminded the over 300 in attendance - they had expected half that number - about the tax advantages of setting up a business in Langford.
Young had earlier announced that Langford planned to offer 10 year tax holidays for new office and government
building construction, as well as rental accommodation.
“We’re looking at ways we can be part of an economic solution,” Young said.
The plan came about as a result of many months of meetings with builders, investment groups, city staff and community leaders, in an effort to head off a sluggish economy and attract new investment - which means jobs.
Young estimates the economic plan could be worth more than $2.5 Million. Included in the package is an offer to waive building permit fees for one year for all new residential construction.
“Langford will be one of the first municipalities in Canada that will waive its building permit fees,” Young told the Times Colonist. “You will not see a building permit fee on residential or multi-family housing units.”
Langford will still collect Development Cost Charges.
The 10 year tax holiday will be available to anyone building new rental accommodation, on the stipulation that the rents are 10 per cent or more below market value. It would also apply to new seniors housing, or affordable housing.
Builders of new office space would need to sign a covenant agreeing to never charge for parking, in order to obtain the break.
Young also made a not so subtle suggestion that Langford would be a good location for government offices. Currently 70,000 people of Greater Victoria’s 300,000 residents live in the West Shore, so he reasons that a proportionate amount of government offices would be entirely appropriate.
“They will make a choice to live in Langford if they have their government job out here,” he adds.
Casey Edge, Executive Officer of the Canadian Home Builders Association in Victoria, said “Once again, Langford is ahead of the curve.
“Getting a building permit in Langford is a far less bureaucratic process than other municipalities,” he said. “There is a lot of redevelopment that could take place in the core municipalities and it’s just not getting done.”
Also presenting at the economic forum was Avi Friedman, a McGill University professor and sustainable housing expert, who made a dynamic presentation about the possibilities that are available. Dr. Keith Martin, MP for Esquimalt-Juan de Fuca, also spoke.

]]> Wed, 11 Feb 2009 13:42:28 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=579 Restacon Services has two new additions

Restacon Services has two new additions: Flemming Anderson, a journeyman carpenter with a Bachelor of Education, and Alex Gardnar.
• • •
The Drift Restaurant is closed once again.
• • •
Flying Fish in downtown Nanaimo recently celebrated its fifth year of providing cooking, living and giving for customers.
• • •
ABC Precast & Ready Mix Ltd. has been awarded a $1.6 Million contract with SNC Lavalin to produce bridge deck panels for the Coast Meridian Overpass in Coquitlam.
Justin Bennett, Manager Structural Precast for ABC, says production will start towards the end of January and run into June.
• • •
The Mohawk gas station in Southgate Plaza is switching over to Petro Canada.
• • •
H&R Block tax service is opening in University Village Mall in Harewood.
Shoppers Drug Mart is now open at University Village, and a CIBC bank is opening there also.
• • •
Leon’s Furniture on Metral Drive has changed its name to Vancouver Island Furniture.
• • •
Jeet Manhas, who is running as the Liberal candidate in the Nanaimo riding against NDP incumbent Leonard Krog in this spring’s provincial election, is opening his campaign office in the previous location of the Return It depot in Terminal Park.
• • •
Peter Ertsos will be opening a Mediterranean deli in the Heritage Mews in February.
• • •
Paul Manhas is opening a new liquor store in Nanaimo North Centre in January. The store will be about 4,000 square feet.
• • •
Thrifty Foods on Turner Road is undergoing some renovations to its store.
• • •
Darryl Eff and Barry Butler have joined RBC Dominion Securities.
• • •
Accutemp Refrigeration has been purchased by Johnson Controls.
• • •
Tea Desire has opened at Woodgrove Centre.
• • •
Heather Maycock has been hired as a travel trade representative at Tourism Nanaimo.
• • •
Vancouver Island University is in the middle of a $1.5 million expansion plan called the Gathering Place.
- Chris Cathers writes about business in Nanaimo. Tell him your story by contacting him at chris@businessvi.ca.

]]> Fri, 16 Jan 2009 14:41:36 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=578 Platinum Award 49th Parallel Grocery

49th Parallel Grocery in Cedar received a Platinum Award from the Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers recognizing 10 years of excellence in the grocery industry.
• • •
Island Savings Credit Union has been recognized by the 2008 Innovation Awards, placing second and third in the Innovative Products category for its “Road to Beijing” and “Penny the Owl” campaigns, and third in the Innovative Services category for its member-drive campaign.
• • •
Early Bird applications are available for the 2009 Home Show. For inquiries call the Chamber office 250-245-2112
• • •
Ingrid Ursula Chiri of Look Quality is a Shaklee Independent Distributor. She recently had Shaklee’s latest products on display in the Façade and will be joining us in the Home Show.
www.LookQuality.com
• • •
Is your business recession-proof? Work with a business coach to move forward with confidence. Contact Clemens Rettich Business Coaching at clemens@clemensrettich.com
• • •
IIE Solutions provides website hosting, website design, eCommerce development, web database applications development, marketing solutions for websites, blogs and email newsletters and custom graphic design for websites or printed products.
www.iiesolutions.com
• • •
Ravens watch over us at 2510 South Wellington Road. They announce the arrival of spring and add an element of mystery to the community. To honour them the owners have renamed their property ‘Ravenwood Acres - Your Vacation Suite at The Mission’. www.atthemission.com
• • •
Detoxify with a new rare White Tea from Olivia’s Fashion & Furnishings.
Olivia’s White Goddess tea possesses the highest level of antioxidants of all teas, conferring many health benefits, including healthy, firm skin, cleansing properties and enhanced immune function. http://www.olivias.ca/Tea.html
• • •
Paul Mycroft Design provides affordable, professional web design, email newsletters, and search engine expertise for Ladysmith and Vancouver Isl. www.paulmycroft.com.
- Tricia Pearson is manager of the Ladysmith & District Chamber of Commerce.

]]> Fri, 16 Jan 2009 14:38:55 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=577 Parksville doing  better that the BC Average

There must be something special in the air about Parksville.
During a time of economic unrest, our small businesses seem to be doing better than the B.C. average. I guess we are forced to look at alternatives, seek new ways of achieving our goals and scrutinize every financial transaction to ensure our viability.
These challenging times might end-up being the wake-up call we needed and will make us smarter in the future.
There is always someone who will shine during challenging times, here are two such successful businesses.
• • •
In a mere five years, Buztronics Canada Co. has grown from a simple idea to a multi-million dollar company – and it’s still growing fast.


Buztronics manufactures environmentally friendly LED lighting for cars, motorcycles, trucks, off road vehicles, snow vehicles and the marine industry. It also has a very successful promotional division that has exploded onto the market.
You have probably seen their work on logos or products carried by Canadian Tire, Blackberry, Microsoft, Boston Pizza, Tim Horton’s, Molson’s, Addidas, Wall-Mart and Nike.
Paul and Lori Nielsen deserve the right to brag. Check it out at: www.buzline.ca.
• • •
Kyle Reeves and Jason Scoffings from Parksville demonstrated their strength and determination by slaying the dragons on Dragon’s Den.
These two entrepreneurs designers and manufacturers of the K-track system which turns a mountain bike to a snow machine turned down a $300,000 offer from the Dragons on national TV, as they were not ready to part with 50% of their company.
As I was watching this show, I also heard the Dragons saying “We might have just made a VERY big mistake”. Check their site for this awesome invention from Parksville/Qualicum
www.ktrakcycle.com
• • •
On March 6 the Parksville Chamber will host the 2008 Annual Community Awards, “The Glassies” at the Parksville Community & Conference Centre. The Chamber of Commerce is proud to host these awards to honour excellence in both business and community services.
A business or person does not need to be a member of the Chamber to be nominated. All residents, employees and businesses of Parksville and District (Parksville, Nanoose Bay, French Creek, Errington, Coombs Bowser and Deep Bay) are eligible for nomination.
Nominations are being accepted for the following categories:
• Citizen of the Year
• Youth of the Year (19 years and under)
• Business of the Year
• Outstanding Customer Service
• Volunteer of the Year
• Community Builder of the Year
• Environmental Sustainability Award
The Awards night is not only a chance to celebrate the successes of the finalists, but a great opportunity to meet, greet and network with the many contributors of our community. The event includes a pre-gala reception, gourmet buffet dinner, live music and awards ceremony.
Tickets may be reserved by calling the Chamber office at 250-248-3613.
Sponsorship opportunities are still available for those who would like to contribute to this special celebration.
- Mike Bourcier is Executive Director of the Parksville & District Chamber of Commerce. He can be reached at mike@chamber.parksville.bc.ca

]]> Fri, 16 Jan 2009 14:37:04 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=576 New framing business opens

A new framing business has opened in the Alberni Valley, called L7 Picture Framing, owned and operated by Carrie Furness.
It is on the corner of Johnston and Bishop roads (across from Dennis Jonsson Motor Products) and is easily identifiable by the striking mural painted by local artist Brad Piatka.
Furness along with her partner and four teenage children are very happy to be Port Alberni. Furness is not only a framer but also an accomplished watercolour artist. She paints exquisite portraits for a very reasonable price.
She is very pleased and proudly announces that she has done work for Port Alberni’s Beijing athlete Travis Cross and also for Art Wynans, who has operated Wynan’s Furniture and Upholstery for the past 53 years.
The store frames more than pictures, including everything from jerseys to medals. Furness owned and operated a frame shop gallery in New Brunswick. Born and raised in Nanaimo, she also worked at a gallery in Ladysmith.
• • •
The Kingsway Hotel on Kingsway Street in South Port Alberni announces new owners to their adjacent restaurant: Jack and Lorna Scale. The eatery opened October 20 and is aptly called Jack and Lorna’s Café.
The cafe is open Monday through Friday and takes pride in preparing home style cooked meals, serving soup and sandwiches, fish and chips made with their own special recipe, schnitzel, pork chops and other tasty dishes.
• • •
Carmoor Cookery is owned by Jaunita Erickson, Kelly Pletti and Lynn Mickalko.
They have been friends for a long time and decided to open a business where they could showcase their love for cooking great food. They prepare good, nutritious meals that can be taken home either frozen or are ready to eat.
They also have many wonderful desserts, hors d’oeuvers, imported ingredients for the gourmet cook, and homemade preserves that taste like grandma used to make.
They also have fresh homemade pasta dishes with sauces and lasagna, and are open Tuesday through Saturday Special orders for parties are available.
They are at the corner of Kingsway and Argyle Street in the Carmoor Building.
• • •
Arrowsmith Aluminum & Vinyl is owned by Brian Schram.
Brian is a siding contractor and is currently completing work on Junction Self Storage located adjacent to Sherwood’s Autobody.
He also did the Coast Realty building on Johnston Road, and many residences locally and on the West Coast.
Brian guarantees his work for a minimum five years. He uses Kaycan products manufactured in Canada, and w.ill travel anywhere on the Island.
- Sonja Drinkwater writes about business in Port Alberni. Tell her your story by contacting her at (250) 723-4306.

]]> Fri, 16 Jan 2009 14:34:39 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=575
Next-Gen Sports is ready for a strong year.

After making a move from their Dogwood location to the plaza on 12th Avenue, next to the Dragon’s Lair a little over a year ago, they have been building up their stock of used sports equipment, preparing to serve the sports enthusiasts who might not have the money needed for new equipment.
“Sports are an outlet for many people to escape to,” says Kaylynn Fox, the store owner. “We are making sure that they can afford to enjoy them.”
• • •
Mussels and More Pottery has won the Campbell River Tourism Society’s Business of the Year award.
Jan and Mike Sell moved their business into the Campbellton area of town a little less than a year ago, taking over the former Kirk’s Auto Parts location. Since then, they have continued to build their reputation and product line and have been an important part in changing the look of their neighbourhood.
• • •
Campbell River City Planner Paul Stanton will be starting out 2009 with a new in a new city.
After seven years of serving Campbell River and being an important part of Campbell River’s rapid growth, Stanton has taken on the role of Director of Development Service for the City of White Rock.
• • •
With the final sale of Campbell River Television to Shaw Communications, the members have elected new members to the final Board of Directors.
Current Board President, John Kerr, was elected with the most votes, while Sterling Campbell and Sean Smith took the last of the three available positions. The current board will oversee the final portions of the sale, the liquidation of the assets and payouts to the CRTV membership.
• • •
After many years as a sales consultant for Barrie Brown Pontiac GMC, Doug Hougham is moving on. He is staying with the GM family, however, joining the sales team at Tyee Chevrolet in downtown Campbell River.
 - Sean Smith writes about business in Campbell River. He can be reached at seans@jobready.ca

]]> Fri, 16 Jan 2009 14:29:10 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=574 Scheduled opening of Quality Foods generating interest...

The soon to be opened Quality Foods store, located in the former Safeway location in Crossroads Shopping Centre, has generated lots of interest. The opening is scheduled for the end of January.
Crossroads welcomed three new businesses this past year.
Minato Restaurant moved from its Joyce Avenue location to the centre. With expanded facilities the popular dining spot will now be able to accommodate more customers. The other two businesses, both new to the community, are Fields and Pharmasave.
• • •
Powell River’s business community has seen a number of changes over the past year, and there are some success stories.
For example, under the leadership of the Powell River Chamber of Commerce, more than two dozen businesses became members during 2008. Strong growth in the Chamber reflects the commitment of many citizens and businesses to the economic well being of Powell River.
• • •
Career Link reported its total employed and self-employed clients for 2008 reached 762. This is out of a total of approximately 1,000 clients who met with counselors.
• • •
Several businesses moved in 2008. Drake Medox increased its visibility by moving to Marine Avenue.
• • •
Shona Scott delighted her customers with the re-opening of a newly designed Beyond Bliss Salon and Spa. The final phase of the new facilities, Limelight, a natural juice bar, recently opened. Patrons are invited to sample the healthy lunches and snacks.
• • •
The transformation of Overwaitea to Save On Foods was completed late in 2008. We commend management and staff for great service through the many disruptions brought about by construction. Gerry Prosser is Operations Manager,
• • •
In November, civic elections resulted in a number of business people gaining seats on the City Council.
During the same month, the Chamber’s Horizon Business Awards attracted a sold-out audience of business owners and representatives.
Heading into January 2009, Laura and John Passek are excited about their new business. The Passeks recently purchased Crystal Clear Engravers (formerly Crystal Clear Photo and Engraving) from Roger Pagani.
• • •
Words of Worth, a business-focused writing and research company, celebrated it fifth year of operation in Powell River this past September. Owner Linda Wegner invited a number of representatives from the business and non-profit sectors to join her for an evening event held in January at Town Centre Hotel.
• • •
Thank you to Robert Dufour for his contributions to this column over the past several years. Robert is kept busy with his company, Works Consulting, and he’s chosen to discontinue reporting Powell River business news for Business Vancouver Island.
- Linda Wegner will be writing about business in Powell River. Tell her your story by emailing her at contactus@wordsofworth.ca

]]> Fri, 16 Jan 2009 14:28:14 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=573
Speculation on Bear Mountain

VICTORIA - The Sports Network has reported that Len Barrie has sold the Bear Mountain luxury resort to a Dubai group for $500 Million and a spokesman for Barrie says the resort has not been sold.
Barrie, who is a partner in the National Hockey League’s Tampa Bay Lightning, opened Bear Mountain in 2003. the resort includes a Jack Nicklaus golf layout and 156 rom Westin Hotel, along with residential homes.

Alberta group joins tech park

VICTORIA – The Vancouver Island Technology Park has a new resident from Alberta.
The Alberta Research Council (ARC) has moved into a 5,000 square foot section of the park to research different issues surrounding water, more specifically, the Council has set up a water isotope lab. Renovations to the park will need to be made in order for the move to be complete; these renovations should finish sometime in March.
The water isotope lab will be used to determine the age, history and origins of different samples. In addition to identifying different water types, the lab will examine the water-cycle and what controls it.
Employed at the ARC’s new location will be a mixture of 12 full and part-time workers, in addition, research assistants, graduate students and doctoral fellows will also be employed.
The ARC has made the move not only to join forces with other research teams in the area, but also to use the new location as a marketing tool.

Value Village looks at Langford

LANGFORD – A recent development application to Langford City Council has indicated that a Value Village could be in store for the area.
The application included a development permit amendment, as well as drawings which showed the Value Village logo on the proposed 1017 Langford Parkway location.
Value Village’s parent company Savers Inc. shared no specific details, instead issued a general statement via their public relations company Dou Public Relations, which stated that the company was looking to put new locations in the Victoria area.
Value Village, a thrift store, has had a presence in Victoria since 1988 when its first Store Street location opened. Should the Langford proposal be approved, it would join the more than 200 other locations across the United States, Canada and Australia
.
Hydroxyl gets court protection

VICTORIA – Hydroxyl Systems Inc. has entered into the protection of the court, and will continue there until a re-vamped financial plan will be presented, which is expected to address unsecured creditors.
Steve Lum of Campbell Saunders Ltd. has been appointed as a monitor.
Hydroxyl Systems is a 15-year-old wastewater treatment company that has undergone recent changes due to the economic downturn. The changes have resulted in a reduction in staff from 30, down to 20.
The problems are not for a lack of business, rather, a rescheduling of business, where several large contracts they have obtained were moved from late 2008, to the first quarter of 2009. That includes a multi-million dollar deal with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. The company has around 400 shareholders, with one principle owner.
In November Hydroxyl was named by VIATeC as one of the Top 25 Local Technology.

Major award for Green Steam gun

VICTORIA – Green Steam Inc. has just won the Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters 2008 regional technological innovation award.
The award was earned for a weed removal product that blasts the weeds with heated steam. The Green Steam gun was the brainchild of former Canadian Forces gardener Steve Vaughn, who left his job and partnered with Milroy Engineering to complete the production of the gun.
Vaughn is currently in talks with an unspecified manufacturer to licence his product, which already has U.S. patents, and Canadian and European patents that are currently pending. It cost around $250,000 to develop the gun, paid for in part by a $15,000 grant from the National Research Council.
The main use for the gun is for weed removal on hard surfaces such as sidewalks, but there have been discussions regarding a smaller domestic version.

Top 25 tech firms named

VICTORIA – The top 25 revenue producing technology companies in 2008 were recently announced by the Vancouver Island Advanced Technology Council (VIATeC).
In order to be on the list a company had to be either founded or head-quartered in Victoria.
All 25 companies employed around 2,500 last year, and had combined revenues of more than $760 Million. The median revenue for each company was $13.3 Million, up from $13 Million last year.
In alphabetic order, the top 25 go as follows: Abebooks.com, ACD Systems, Agresso, Archipelago Marine Research, Aspreva Pharmaceuticals, Beanstream, Boardwalk Communications, Camacc Systems, Carmanah Technologies, Contech Electronics, Daniels Electronics, EDS Advanced Solutions, Hydroxyl, MDA Access BC, MYRA Systems, Neverblue Media, OA Solutions, Paretologic, Procura, Reliable Controls, Schneider Electric, Scott Plastics, Seastar Chemicals, Trafford Publishing and Vecima Networks.

London next for airport?

VICTORIA – Additional flights to San Francisco have been announced by the Victoria Airport Authority (VAA), and in addition, runway expansion plans that would allow direct flights to London are also being discussed.
United Airlines’ Victoria-San Francisco route will now have two daily flights as of March 29, but the runway expansion needed for the potential London flight is still in the discussion phase.
To get the Victoria-London route ‘off the ground’, the main runway would have to be extended from 2,133 to 2,560 metres, which is expected to cost around $20 Million. The VAA is currently looking for air carriers that would be interested in the route.
The VAA has also requested airport access upgrades at the Patricia Bay Highway and McTavish Road intersection that would be vital to the new routes opening up. The Authority has already committed $3 Million to such upgrades, which are expected to cost $13 Million in total.

Sidney works to save ferry

SIDNEY - Planning is underway on efforts to save the international ferry service that operates between Sidney and Anacortes Washington.
In December, Washington State Governor Christine Gregoire announced her intention to eliminate the service as a cost cutting measure, effective at the end of summer this year.
Sidney Mayor Larry Cross and Councillor Kenny Podmore attended a “Save the Ferry” meeting held at the Anacortes City Hall January 7.  Hosted by Anacortes Mayor Dean Maxwell, the meeting included representatives from the city’s Chamber of Commerce and key stakeholders from the San Juan Islands, the county government, the county economic development agency and other interested parties. 
The meeting was an opportunity to share information and rally support for a campaign to save the ferry service and to develop a plan to move the campaign forward.  Among the matters raised at the meeting was a sense that the economic benefits generated by the service far outweigh the savings suggested by the Governor.
Mayor Cross commented after the meeting: “I was impressed with the passion and deep concern of the participants on what a huge economic blow this would be to the greater Anacortes and Washington community.”

]]> Fri, 16 Jan 2009 14:22:41 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=572
Expansion of casino delayed

NANAIMO –The Great Canadian Casino Company has decided to hold off on its $50 Million expansion plans for the Port Place Shopping Centre until 2010, at the earliest.
The on-hold 23,000 square feet expansion, which would double the current size of the casino, includes an additional 225 slot machines and 200 underground parking spots. The slot machines are expected to generate around $3 Million for the City. When the addition is complete, the original 19,000 square foot casino will be demolished and replaces with a new 22,000 square foot building, which will include an additional 280 parking spaces.


Grand re-opening for Harmac mill

NANAIMO – The Harmac pulp mill recently held its Grand Re-Opening.
The mill has already been in production since October 2, which followed a five-month shutdown after the original owners, Pope & Talbot, went bankrupt.
Harmac was bought by a group which consisted of Pioneer Log Homes, based out of Williams Lake, the Sampson Group, based out of Vancouver, Totzauer Holdings, based out of the Fraser Valley, and the mill’s former managers and workers.
They bought the mill for $13.2 million.

Nanaimo Airport Expansion on Target

NANAIMO - The Nanaimo Airport Commission has announced that the planned improvements to the runway and approach lighting system at the Nanaimo Airport are on target, despite the shifting nature of the region’s economy.
The NAC has been working with various agencies during the past year and is now in a position to proceed with this important initiative.
“We have put out tender documents to pre-qualified general contractors and are pleased to say that the airport improvements will go ahead as planned,” stated Mike Hooper, Nanaimo Airport Commission President and CEO. “We’ve done our due diligence and secured the necessary funding and we’re well on our way to breaking ground on this project.”
Phase one of the airport improvements will see the extension of the runway by 500 meters, the addition of high intensity approach lighting and an instrument approach.
Jerry Pink, NAC Board Chair, noted that “The airport is a major economic driver for our region. It is more important now than ever, to provide the best possible service to our growing clientele.”
Marilyn Hutchinson, City of Nanaimo Economic Development Officer, is in agreement that the Airport expansion is an important driver for the Nanaimo region. 
“Air transportation is key to the continuing growth of the Island’s small business community,” says Hutchinson. “As business owners pursue new customer markets on the Lower Mainland and beyond, the improved airport infrastructure will offer transportation efficiencies that reduce their cost of doing business.”
“Providing a direct and significant economic contribution to the local economy in a way that demonstrates fiscal responsibility was a major consideration before letting this tender,” says Hooper.

Generosity shocks customers

Ilan Goldenblatt admits he enjoyed seeing some shocked looks on some of his customers’ faces when he refused their money.
Goldenblatt, the owner of Thirsty Camel Cafe, decided to make a statement on ‘Black Friday’ by offering his clientele a chance to literally sing for their supper.
The magazine Ad Busters holds “Buy Nothing Day” on what the U.S. calls Black Friday, the day after American Thanksgiving.
“This is held to help people consider that we, as a society, are now defined as consumers,” reasons the publication. And though Goldenblatt is in the retail trade, “I refuse to be pigeon-holed into that category.”
So four years ago, he started closing his business on Black Friday.
“I put signs in my window urging people to consider things like consumerism at this time of year just before Christmas and asking people if they really want to go into more credit card debt.”
This year on Black Friday he wanted to do something different.
“I came up with the idea of being open but only for limited hours, just for lunch,” he said. “I would take my customers’ orders but not their money. To make this even more challenging, I decided to ask them to have something to barter.”
He didn’t advertise this arrangement and many customers went into the Thirsty Camel without anything to barter with.
“I took them at their word. I didn’t care how valuable the item was as long as it was valuable to them,” said Goldenblatt. “I told them they could write me an IOU and they asked me ‘How do you know I’m going to come back?’ and I told them I didn’t.”
That wasn’t the point, said Goldenblatt.
“It was to make people think about the consumer society we live in now and the orgy of excess that happens around Christmas, he said. “When did Christmas go from being a spiritual holiday to a consumer-driven holiday? I did it to do something for the community. I know I took a hit (in profits) but it was worth it just to get people thinking and to see the look on some of their faces.”

]]> Fri, 16 Jan 2009 14:19:30 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=571
Investing, TV career thrives for Barry Pederson

VICTORIA - As a hockey player, Barry Pederson was usually right on the money.
In his post National Hockey League career, the former star centreman of the Western Hockey League version of the Victoria Cougars is still on the money - as an institutional equity salesman for Boston-based Morgan Keegan.
And he’s still front and centre in hockey, but now as an analyst for his alma mater, the Boston Bruins as a television colour analyst for the New England Sports Network (NESN).
Pederson does about 25 Bruins games per season, and shares the microphone with ex-Bruins Gord Kluzak, himself an investment advisor with Goldman Sachs, Andy Brickley and Mike Milbury, who is on Hockey Night in Canada Saturday on CBC.
“It’s just enough to do where it’s really enjoyable, and it’s not ever taking anything away from my family or my job,” he says. The continuing profile is “good for business as well.”
Pederson started in the investment business with A.G. Edwards, spending 15 years there before the company was bought out by Wachovia in 2007. He moved to Morgan Keegan last August.
“I love the investment business and the intellectual challenge of the markets,” he says, adding his responsibilities lie in the institutional side of the company, “the ‘eyes and ears’ of the analysts who manage the funds,” he adds.
Although he has lived in Massachusetts since retiring from playing in 1994, (he lives in Swampscott, Massachusetts, 30 minutes north of Boston), he has deep roots on Vancouver Island.
Pederson’s sister, Connie Cyr, is partners with Karen Griffin in two very successful women’s clothing stores in Nanaimo, KC’s Boutiques in Longwood Station. His uncle, former Clipper coach Larry McNabb, is a long-time Nanaimo city councillor, and another uncle, Norm McNabb is a principal of Nored Developments, a prominent Mid Island land developer and property owner.
Born in Big River, Saskatchewan, Pederson was raised in Nanaimo, powering the Nanaimo Clippers to back to back B.C. Hockey League championships before joining the parent Cougars.
With future NHLers goaltender Grant Fuhr and wingers Greg Adams, now a successful Cowichan Valley businessman, and Mark Morrison, current coach of the ECHL‘s Victoria Salmon Kings, leading scorer Pederson led the Cougars to their only WHL title, and Victoria’s only appearance in the Memorial Cup, in 1981.
“I have great memories of Victoria and Nanaimo, and we had some good teams,” he recalls. “A lot of guys went on and played in the NHL.
“We were very fortunate to make it to the Memorial Cup, but we lost out in the finals. And we had some great hockey teams with the Clippers. The B.C. Hockey League had some great hockey.”
A first round draft pick, Pederson was runner-up to Dale Hawerchuk as the NHL’s Rookie of the Year in 1981-82.
In 701 NHL games with Boston, the Vancouver Canucks, Pittsburgh Penguins and Hartford Whalers, Pederson amassed 238 goals and 416 assists for 654 points, arguably the best ever NHL player from Vancouver Island. A first round draft pick, he played in two NHL all star games, scoring 44 and 46 goals for Boston in the 1981-82, and 1982-83 seasons, leading the team in scoring and totaling over 100 points both years as a linemate of Rick Middleton.
Pederson’s success in Boston made him a valuable commodity, and he was traded to Vancouver in 1986 for Cam Neely, who became a Bruins icon and member of the Hockey Hall of Fame.
Prior to arriving in Vancouver, Pederson underwent the first of two operations on his shoulder to remove a benign tumor, something he surmises came about as a result of constant pounding from opposing forwards as he maneuvered in front of the net.
“I was never really, I don’t think, the same after that, looking back on it,” he says. “But at the same time, I don’t necessarily believe the physical aspect of it was the only aspect. I think the mental part was, for whatever reason.
“I loved Vancouver, but the hockey was frustrating,” he says. “My wife, Patricia is a marathon runner, and she had a ball there.”
(Patricia and Barry have two teenagers, a son Benjamin, who doesn’t play hockey anymore, and a daughter, Tatum.)
Pederson was named Vancouver’s Most Valuable Player in 1986-87, and still managed almost a point per game in just over three seasons with Vancouver, before winding down his NHL career in Pittsburgh, Hartford (now Carolina Hurricanes) and Boston.
Pederson was a member of the 1990-91 Stanley Cup Champion Penguins, led by Mario Lemieux, and has his name engraved on the Stanley Cup.
Pederson retired from playing hockey in 1994, and was an assistant coach for NCAA powerhouse Boston College for one season. Shortly after hanging up his blades, he began traveling with the Bruins’ radio broadcast team as a colour commentator, which he did for several years.
When the Boston Red Sox was purchased by John Henry, Tom Werner and others in 2002, the new ownership group also bought NESN, the home broadcast network of both the Red Sox and Bruins.
That’s when Pederson began his TV career. But his day job with Morgan Keegan, which holds nearly $141 Billion in assets, keeps him busy.
There’s no doubt his hockey background is an asset in the business world. Despite plenty of turmoil in the markets, but Pederson maintains an even keel.
“Everyone seems to forget that everything is cyclical,” he says. “We’re not immune to downturns in the economy. The fluctuations in the price of energy has been a big factor.”
Like many, Pederson is optimistic about what incoming President Barack Obama will bring.
“Everyone wants to give him an opportunity to see what he can do,” Pederson says. “The only fear I have is the expectations are a bit high, with what’s ahead of him.”

]]> Fri, 16 Jan 2009 14:12:40 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=570
Kwik Kopy wins national award for program work

NANAIMO - When Brad McAuley tells his staff to “get with the program”, he isn’t kidding.
They obviously take it to heart, as the Kwik Kopy Design & Print Centre on Wilgress Road has just been awarded the Best of Show printing award from Kwik Kopy Canada for producing the program for the B.C. Hockey League’s Nanaimo Clippers.
The local Kwik Kopy outlet took top spot in Kwik Kopy Printing Canada’s Annual Outstanding Achievements in Printing Award (OAPA) contest for the Clippers’ program and supporting marketing materials. That included player cards.
“All of these materials were designed in house by Liza Taylor, and all of them were printed in house,” says McAuley, who owns the Nanaimo Kwik Kopy with his wife Christine, who also owns Bernard Callebaut Chocolates in Woodgrove Centre.
The judging of the printed pieces submitted by all Kwik Kopy Design & Print Centres. Twerdun says that winning this award has an even greater significance, because through the surveys, MNP team members were given an opportunity to share their positive experiences with the firm which further demonstrates that the firm remains true to our culture and values.
“It is truly an honour to be named one of the 50 Best Employers in Canada”, says Daryl Ritchie, MNP’s Chief Executive Officer. “This award is especially important as we continue to grow and expand our services and operations throughout Canada because it reminds us that throughout our evolution, we can stay true to who we are.”
Ritchie added that since 1945, the firm has grown to more than 2,200 people in 75 offices across the country.

]]> Fri, 16 Jan 2009 14:11:28 -0800 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=569 • Discovery Foods is now celebrating their 20th year in business, serving the Campbell River community.

• Wendy Berry has joined the sales team at RE/MAX Check Realty.

• Campbell River Veterinary Hospital is celebrating 30 years in business. They offer a full service veterinary hospital, providing boarding and grooming as well. Dr. Rodney Nast bought the practice in 2006.

• Johnson’s Lock & Key store, owned by Bonnie and Ernie Johnson, is entering their fifth year in business.

• David Pechter, BA, MScPT, MCPA, has joined the team at Rehabilitation in Motion at 2315 South Island Highway.

• Shaw Chiropractic, on 1281 Shoppers Row, is pleased to announce Dr. Tandrea Rowan as their newest staff addition.

• After undergoing a change in ownership, Jan’s...A Fashion House located at 1064 Shopper’s Row and owned by Bev Mills, is re-opening to the public.

• Kevin Greif has achieved Top Salesman and Top New Car Salesman for August 2008, at Bill Howich Chrysler RV & Marine on 2777 North Island Highway.

• Thrifty Foods Campbell River has recently received a ‘Blood Bowl’  award from Canadian Blood Services, on behalf of their high number of blood donors.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:43:47 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=568 • PR Concrete Floats Limited, a company owned by Kevin Winiski that produces concrete floats for many different uses, is now located in Powell River’s Catalyst Paper area.

• Vanderkamp Sales and Service Ltd. has a new neighbor as a giant propane tank belonging to Superior Propane, formerly located on the waterfront of Powell River for more than half a century, was moved next door to its location.

• Dr. Gary White has joined Dr. Tom Adamack at his Powell River Optometry Clinic practice, on #15-4312 Franklin Avenue.

• David Formosa of the Shinglemill Pub and Bistro has hired chef Nurul Islam of Bangladesh to cook for the restaurant.

• Dennis Scherger now works for Stieben Plumbing & Heating Ltd. as a lamplighter for their 4493F Marine Avenue location.

• Beltone hearing services located at 207 - 4801 Joyce Avenue, welcomes Paul Deelman on staff as their new hearing aid practitioner and specialist.

• Aaron Pinch of Powell River Microsystems, has officially decided to run for a spot in the City of Powell River council, making this his third time running.

• Waves Hair & Body Salon has recently opened, and is available for appointment booking in #4 7030 Glacier Street.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:43:16 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=567 • Comox Valley Airport Commission announced Ken Dawson as new chair, following the resignation of Dave Mellin.

• Lou Dryden, president of North Island College is stepping down after 12 years. A replacement has not been named or chosen.

• Comox Valley Dodge welcomes Janette Blanchard to their sales team.

• Darlene Weir is the new operations manager of The Pier Pub & Bistro formerly know as The Edge Pub.

• Mike Paroshy has been named top salesman of the month at Brian McLean Chevrolet.

• Casey van Ierland joins the sales team at Baxandall’s Ford Country. He is a recent grad of the Georgian Automotive Marketing Program.

• Dr. J. Marcus Langhans will be joining ValleyCare Medical. He will be relocating from Germany with his family and is accepting new patients.

• Dr. Candice Hall and Dr. Tom Van Dyck of Courtenay Veterinary Clinic welcomed Dr. Richelle Kendall to their staff.

• Slegg Lumber has now opened its Cumberland location at 3217 Small Road.

• Signature Wines is celebrating 15 years of winemaking in the valley. Owner Sigrid Lees started in 1993, joined by co-owner Lisa Baird in 2006 and now has a staff of 10.

• Glenn Eleiter is the new GM of Hotel Le Soleil. He was previously GM at the Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa.

• Lawyer and city councillor Paul Ives will be running for the mayor’s seat in the city of Courtenay.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:42:30 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=566 • Hockey legend Gordie Howe was the guest of honour at a luncheon at Chances RimRock and accompanied by former NHL foe Howie Meeker.

• Columbia Fuels has moved locations to 3169 2nd Ave.

• The Frigstad Apartment building has an new owner. The individual paid the $22,843.52 in back taxes. Previous owner Greg Marsh no longer holds the title.

• Mandeep Khtaria is salesman of the month at Dennis Jonsson Motor Products Ltd.

• Alberni Echo Toyota has announced that Mike Doughty is their newest product advisor on their sales and leasing team.

• Pine Restaurant, serving Chinese, Canadian and Szechuan food, has had a face lift. The restaurant is still at 2940-3rd Avenue.

• The B.C. Outdoors Backroads Tour ‘08 was held at Alberni Echo Toyota. The lot was transformed and hosted flying, hunting techniques, GPS training and various other demos.

• Shanon Turner joins Serendipity hair studio at 4961 Argyle Street.

• Denture Centre is now open at their new location 4681 Elizabeth Street according to denturist, Ernie West.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:41:39 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=565 • The Pacific Prime Steak & Chop at The Beach Club Resort on 181 Beachside Drive, welcomes Jevon Thow as their new Executive Chef.

• Joe Cunningham of Joe Cunningham Ford has chosen to sponsor the Oceanside Art Gallery on 133 McMillan Street and Memorial Avenue, and the gallery is now called The Joe Cunningham Ford Gallery.

• The Brigadoon Golf Course on 359 Martindale Road is now open for business, also making available advance passes and gift cards for their customers.

• The Morningstar Creek Winery is a new project introduced by Little Qualicum Cheeseworks; the fruit wine is expected to come out with their product in November.

• Jennifer Bricker has opened up a an Immigrant Settlement Office on 197 Harrison Avenue, to cover paperwork and other important issues involved in the immigration process.

• Wendy Maurer of the Qualicum Beach town council, has just announced her intentions of running for mayor in the coming election, hoping to replace current mayor Teunis Westbroek.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:40:49 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=564 • Congratulations to Allan Lupton of Royal Lepage Nanaimo Realty, for marking 50 years with the real estate company. The office also welcomes new sales people Michael Monson and Claire Batta to the team.

• Jentri Esthetics at 5107 Somerset Drive is pleased to welcome new senior hair stylist Diane Timothy.

• Mark’s Work Wearhouse held the grand opening of their new location at Unit #1-6334 Metral Drive in September.

• The Mid Island CO-OP Gas Bar and Convenience Store recently celebrated the re-opening of their location on Bowen Road.

• Teresa Moore has been named director of development and alumni at Vancouver Island University.

• Ink Refill has opened their second location, in Country Club Centre.

• Insight Developments, which just hired George Hansen from the Downtown Nanaimo Partnership for an as yet disclosed major project in the Parksville area, has purchased the former Shaw Cable building on Poplar Street.

• Congratulations to Dave Hitchen of Woodgrove Chrysler for marking 15 years as a technician at the dealership.

• Pat Fischer has joined Canadian Western Bank as a retail account manager. She has many years’ experience in the personal financial field, including at HSBC.

• Nanaimo Clippers GM/Coach Bill Bestwick is pleased to note the B.C. Hockey League team has a new title sponsor – its first. It’s the World Financial Group, represented by Senior Vice Chairman Carl Meldrum. Title sponsorship to junior franchises is relatively new, although Penticton Vees have been sponsored by Valley First Credit Union for the past couple of seasons.

• Photographer Dave Hamilton has opened a studio/gallery at #4 Church Street, above Perkins Coffee, across from the Modern Café. Dave describes his style as “a little different from most. . .uniquely my own, with style and journalistic appeal.” He also has a wide variety of shots from around Vancouver Island. To check out his work, visit www.c2cphotography.ca.

• Congratulations to Don Hubbard, General Manager of Hub City Paving/LaFarge, who has been named to the Citizens’ Conservation Council on Climate Action by Premier Gordon Campbell. Joining him from the Nanaimo business community is David Littlejohn of Living Forest Campground. There are seven councils throughout B.C. who will advise government on ways to encourage individuals and businesses to learn more about climate change.

• Charlie Parker and Mike Heinrich are pleased to welcome three new faces to their team at Re/MAX of Nanaimo. Morgan Evans has moved into the downtown office after leaving her career at the Nanaimo Seawall Café to sell real estate. David Bains is also new to the downtown office. Rodney Meier is moving from Qualicum Beach to join the team.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:39:58 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=563 • Cathy Robertson is welcomed on board as the most recent General Manager for Community Futures Cowichan.

• Steve Aydon has been named the Salesman of the Month for August for his dealership of Peter Baljet GM, at 6300 Trans Canada Highway.

• After running Mercia’s health food and nutrition shop for nearly 25 years, Phil Kent has sold his business.

• BowMel Chrysler on 461 Trans Canada Highway, congratulates their employee Kent Fortin on achieving the top spot on their August sales chart.

• The Cowichan Commons mall for retail plans to feature a Future Shop store in their location set to open to the public around October next year.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:37:59 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=562 • Camosun College has appointed Robin Adair, a communications consultant, as their current chairman for the board this year.

• The Victoria International Marina project, being developed by Bob Evans, now has Lachlan MacLean as its manager of operations.

• The Victoria Hospitals Foundation welcomes Marion Randell, formerly of Carmanah Technologies Corp., on as their new major gift officer.

• The Canadian Club of Victoria board of directors now include: Margaret Williams, Patricia Clarke, Audrey Bains, Linnet Murray, Bill Buckley, and Joan Dowse as directors; Helen Kay as membership chairwoman, secretary Margaret McDougall, Darlene Fursman as treasurer, Nick Fursman as the vice-president, president Marilyn Shortt, and Tricia Horne as past-president.

• Oscar & Libby’s, a store opened by Andrew Millen and Teri Hustins, now has a second location on Lower Johnson Street to serve customers.

• Artie Arsens, the owner of Paul’s Motor Inn, Laurel Point Inn and third wife of the late Paul Arsens, recently died at the age of 94 after a successful career in the hotel industry.

• A brand new Casual Home By Jordans location is now open to the public in Langford, on 887 Attree Avenue.

• After being in business for not even a year, Liberty home furnishings has chosen to close down their location on 1630 Store Street.

• Raymond Protti has been named as the chair for the 2008-2009 University of Victoria Board of Governors term.

• Dr. Sohail Venus is now a part of Dr. Philip Louie - Family Dentistry team, in Suite 103-9717 Third Street.

• Lisa Davis and Marilyn Ball are both welcomed aboard Pemberton Holmes Real Estate as real estate professionals.

• The RBC Dominion Securities Victoria branch welcomes Marc Dumais and Jeffrey Jakobsen as new Investment Advisors.

• The Premier Group real estate strategists consisting of Robyn Baran, Mike Chubey, and Mike Hanus, are welcomed to Sutton WestCan on 103-4400 Chatterton Way.

• Rick Johnson of Totem Travel in the Hillside Centre, is congratulated on his booking 6 world cruises aboard the Crystal Cruises line in his 13 years working - a major achievement.

• Kaetlynn McKinney is welcomed onto the stylist team at Shear Hype Salon, located at 760 Goldstream Avenue.

• Simply Computing has appointed John Simpson, formerly of Industrial Plastics and Paints, to be their marketing manager

• The Vietnam Garden Restaurant, on 524 Admirals Road, is now open for business.

• Jody Twa, the current mayor of Colwood, has decided to run for a spot in the provincial election next year for the BC Liberals.

• Kerry L. Simmons is now a part of the Cook Roberts LLP Lawyers firm, on the 7th Floor of 1175 Douglas Street.

• Charmagne, a stylist with The House of Russell for 11 years, has chosen to leave her position at the salon at 102-2376 Bevan.

• Toni Vincent is welcomed to the professional team of DFH The Real Estate Leaders, at their office on Shelbourne.

• Ron Howlett has joined the team at Budget Car Sales at their 2224 Douglas Street location.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:37:33 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=561 Rick Tucker is the new owner of Papa’s Pizza Pat 4544 Adelaide Street.
The same friendly staff still makes the same great pizza, but Rick has extended the hours and added “health smart” Harvest Crust pizzas.
• • •
Big Pigs Subs has changed hands. The mother-daughter team of Vicki and Kim Moore, who are no strangers to Valley residents, have added new items to the popular eatery’s menu at 4662 Margaret Street and they are now open at 8 a.m. Monday through Saturday.
• • •
One of Port Alberni’s newest business owners was born and raised here.
Nadine McLellan, who opened The Catnap Inn this July, is also a third generation kennel owner and she holds a Pet First Aid Certificate.
“I have built an 800 square foot building that has 22 deluxe suites for boarding cats,” Nadine points out. “It has lots of natural light and offers the felines a real cozy feeling.”
Nadine’s Catnap Inn is located on a five acre site out in the country, but you can check it out at www.thecatnapinn.ca or email: nadine@thecatnapinn.ca. (250-723-7889)
• • •
Melissa Lawrence arrived from Dawson Creek recently with her sewing and alterations home business Stitch of Hand.
“You could say I do everything from buttons, zippers and bows to making curtains and speciality orders for denim quilts,” Melissa explains. “Because I work out of my home, I offer pick up and delivery.” She can be contacted at 250-731-6285.
• • •
Chances RimRock Gaming Centre, at 4890 Cherry Creek Road, celebrated its first birthday in Port Alberni last month.
The charities of the Alberni Valley Gaming Association thanked everyone by offering a free $1,000 Bingo Game each night during the three-day celebration as well as having special door prize draws.
• • •
Larry Mallory started Harbortowne Ford at 4985 Johnston Road on September 6, 1983. Last month, he cut the special “25th Anniversary Cake” as the dealership celebrated a quarter of a century.
“There is a whole ton more of competition today,” Larry replied when asked how the car business has changed.
• • •
McLean & Higgins, the Valley’s legendary plumbing and heating business, turns 60 years of age on November 1.
Bill McLean and Wilf Higgins bought out Ormond’s in 1948. Norm Wolff started as an employee in 1955, became a partner in 1960 and took over the business in 1970. Today, Norm’s son Mike runs the firm with his wife Sylvia, out of their home.
• • •
On the “Community Side” the Alberni Valley Community Band recently marked it’s ‘ 25 - plus Anniversary’, with a social for current and former members. Colleen Goodrich, a young music teacher who became the band’s first conductor, organized the group in September, 1980.
“In my second year of teaching, I decided to start an adult beginning band,” Colleen reveals. “It was called the Musical Rubber Band and was open to anyone who never played an instrument and couldn’t read a note.”
One of the biggest highlights in the band’s history was an appearance at Expo ’86.

--Ike Patterson writes about business in Port Alberni. He can be reached at: ikepatterson@telus.net.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:34:47 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=560 Goody Niosi Writer

CAMPBELL RIVER - In 2002 Pioneer Home Hardware Building Centre made a big move and a major expansion – an expansion that should have answered all its customer’s needs.

However, it seems that owners, Gary, Glen and Dean Thulin didn’t anticipate how very successful they were going to be. Now, in 2008, only six years later, they have made an even bigger move – to the old Save-On Foods building across the street.
That move increases their retail space from 8,900 to 34,000 square feet. It also adds 14,000 square feet to their outdoor service and storage facilities. All this is in addition to the enormous amount of space they already occupy because they are not giving that up – that’s how busy Pioneer Home Hardware Building Supply is.

Gary Thulin notes that Campbell River has always been good to the Thulin family – and the Thulin family has been in the city almost from the day it was founded.
His great-grandparents owned the Willows Hotel in the early 1900s and his grandparents founded the hardware store in 1937. It has been constant growth since then, Thulin says.

“The philosophy was handed down from our grandparents to our parents to ourselves to always stay ahead. You’ve always got to be progressive and stay ahead or you’re going to fall behind. Even when I was a kid working for my dad, we were always doing that. There was always constant expansion, constant improvement and constant change. You do it because that’s how you keep people interested.”

Pioneer Home Hardware has been keeping people interested for a very long time. In the early 1930s the grandparents opened the Beehive Cafe right beside the old wharf where the steamships docked.

Because people often asked them for hardware, they opened a hardware store next door. Gary Thulin estimates it probably occupied less than 200 square feet but it sold the tools and nails and screws people needed.

In 1945 Thulin’s grandparents decided they liked the hardware business better than serving food and coffee. They sold the cafe and moved the hardware store across the street to larger premises. The business grew almost organically and with the years, whenever there was an opportunity, they enlarged the building and expanded their stock.

In 1988 the family built a new location next door encompassing 15,000 square feet of retail space. The next big move began in 2001 when the Revelstoke building and yard came up for sale.

“We could see the potential,” Thulin says. “We saw the opportunity to buy the building and moved in, in early 2002.”

The new location offered a smaller retail area but it had the advantage of a lumber yard and building supply centre – an area that was new to the Thulins.

“We knew absolutely nothing about it,” Thulin says. “We were the first ones to admit it and we made sure that we hired on all the old staff that was still here when they were winding down – they had the knowledge.”

Pioneer doubled its staff overnight and plunged into building supplies. But the acquisition wasn’t the end of the expansion. Pioneer immediately grew into property next door that had not been used. In 2004 it expanded the yard into property across the road while at the same time adding offices to the building for the contractors. When the store still managed to keep bursting at the seams, they rented an outside warehouse for additional storage space.

In 2006, they said “Enough!”
“We were cramped,” Thulin says. “We had narrow aisles that were tough for our customers and staff. In 2002 when we moved into this location our customers said, ‘It’s great – you‘ve got a big parking lot and there’s lots of room for us to park.’ The biggest complaint we had in 2005 was, ‘Your parking lot’s not big enough – we can never find a spot.”

The obvious answer to the dilemma was to purchase the Save-On Foods building when that store moved location. Home Hardware agreed to the purchase and extensive renovations began early this year. Those renovations were finally completed in late September and the big move took place the weekend of September 27 and 28.
The grand opening takes place October 2,3 and 4 with the 4th being the biggest day of celebration with an official plank cutting, giveaways, door prizes and amazing deals and sales on many, many items in the store.

“I think we’ve got some great potential,” Thulin says. “We’ve been able to hire on some fabulous staff. Our human resources person has been fascinated by the amount of people who have wanted to come and work for us – that’s a good feeling for us. We’re always just trying to do our thing and not toot our horn too much but it’s been good that they’ve been coming to us.”

The fact is that Pioneer Home Hardware Building Centre has a reputation not only as a great place to work but also as an excellent place to do business. Thulin attributes its excellent reputation to his staff.

“Our staff takes great pride in customer service,” he says. “It’s something we really instil in them. They know the regulars by name and if there are new people, they talk to them and do everything they can to help them.”

This year Pioneer Home Hardware was nominated for Large Business of the Year at the Campbell River Chamber of Commerce Awards. The company was also runner-up in the Building Supplies Industry Association awards in the under 10,000 square feet category.

Thulin says, “We now want to better that and win the large store category. This last one was a true testament to our staff at the time we were tested we had many new staff and we had staff busy setting up our new location.” 

Because the store is part of the Home Hardware chain its prices are highly competitive as well, Thulin says, and in almost all cases his prices are better than anyone else’s. Home Hardware is 1,000 stores strong across the country and that gives it immense buying power.

 Inside the store, the new layout allows them to showcase a vast majority of the 70,000 items Home Hardware stocks in their warehouses. The new store features housewares, high end home giftware, paints and colour matching services, a huge lighting section, a bath and kitchen cabinetry department, an oversized tool section, plumbing, electrical, mouldings and a contractor room professionals will genuinely appreciate.

The outdoor storage area, with almost everything under cover, is also immensely enlarged and improved.

“It’s exciting,” Thulin says. “You get some of the suppliers coming in and they take one look and say, ‘Wow! This is fabulous! You guys have done great!’ And that’s really exciting.”

Pioneer Home Hardware Building Centre is at 1270 Dogwood Street in Campbell River.

www.homehardware.ca

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:28:42 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=559 CAMPBELL RIVER – The not-for-profit organization, Campbell River Foundation owns Campbell River Television (CRTV) which will be bought out by Shaw Cablesystems for $46 Million.
The purchase could prove to be a blessing to the Campbell River Foundation and other charitable organizations since the monies apparently cannot be distributed to the CRTV membership.
The not-for profit organizations are able to make money but not permitted to distribute money to individual members, but giving to charitable causes may be allowed. Therefore the money may be allowed to be used by the Foundation itself to continue to support local causes.

Home Depot by spring 09
Campbell River Courier-Islander

CAMPBELL RIVER - Contrary to persistent rumours, Home Depot officials say their new Campbell River store will be opening in the spring.
With the 80,000-square-foot big box nearing substantial completion on the former Spit soccer field, rumours have been circulating that a change in the economic climate has Home Depot considering taking construction to the lock-up stage and then leaving it that way until economic conditions improve.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:25:15 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=558 POWELL RIVER - Directors of the Powell River Regional District are opposing the granting of an investigative permit for Plutonic Power Corporation to conduct geotechnical investigations on Freda Creek.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:22:02 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=557 VICTORIA - Two Victoria companies have made Profit Magazine’s Hot 50 list of the fastest emerging companies in Canada.
Placing 9th was League Assets Corp. of Victoria, a real estate investment management company headed by Adam Grant. With 2007 revenue of $16.9 Million, that represents a 1,156% growth in revenue since 2005.
ParetoLogic Inc. of Victoria, an online security software developer led by Elton Pereira was 42nd on $16.2 M revenue - up 173% from 2005’s total of $5.9M.

CRTV sale will benefits
VICTORIA - A total of four Vancouver Island firms have made the Business in Vancouver list of the 100 Fastest Growing Companies in B.C.
LSC Locator Systems International Corp. of Victoria was sixth on $21 Million in revenue, up 6,362% over five years.
Placing 45th was Carmanah Technologies of Victoria on revenue of $59 Million, up 540% over 2002, with Vecima Networks Inc. 92nd on $93.7 Million - up 192% over the same period, and Vigil Health Solutions Inc. 93rd with $3 Million revenue, up 190%.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:21:16 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=556 COMOX – The Vancouver-based company, Compliance Energy wants to complete the $11.25 million purchase for approximately 29,000 hectares of West Fraser Mills’ freehold coal, mineral and gas interest on Vancouver Island. Compliance will also spend $7 million on feasibility studies, public meetings and environmental assessments to decide if it will go ahead with the Raven Coal Project in the Comox Coal basin. It has about 39 million tones of measured and indicated coal and 59 million tonnes of inferred coal resources.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 11:20:05 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=555 XP, Vista or Windows 7?
It seems that operating systems have become an issue of division over the last few years, with the backlash of Vista and the embrace of XP.
The call of many to downgrade to the familiar XP, after their first encounter with Vista, became a reality and stopped many from upgrading to the new Microsoft operating system. Vista was seen as slow and bloated. Many of the drivers’ suppliers had not finished updates in time for Vista and so suddenly devices didn’t work, error messages became frequent and a return to XP was to follow. Same thing happened to first impression many had of XP when it was released.
Vista has slowly been gaining credibility as hardware and software catches up to how they will have to work in Vista. Many users now say they have no errors at all and are growing attached to certain features, like the increased search function, which is needed in the ever expanding sea of files.
If you stayed with XP and some critical software your company uses has been created in-house or you know it is a few years old you will need to be careful before upgrading your operating system to Vista. Research will pay off before making a switch, but don’t pretend change isn’t going to happen. Microsoft’s support of XP was finished in June and so computer companies are putting Vista on all new machines.
Microsoft has another operating system well underway called Windows 7, and it is sure to be an improved version of Vista. Windows 7 is most likely going to be a refinement to Vista like Windows 98 was to Windows 95. Thoughts are that Windows 7 will make its way to computers at the end of 2009.
So any upgrade from XP that can wait should have businesses prepare for Windows 7.
- Article Supplied by Richard Toews, Area Director for Fast Teks. He can be reached at rtoews@fastteks.com

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 09:33:41 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=554 Throughout my career I’ve taken advantage of numerous opportunities to attend industry workshops, seminars and training programs both here in Canada and in the US.
At these events various experts in the field of marketing impart their wisdom by way of sharing formulas and secrets to creating successful advertising. These formulas are often supported by the speaker showcasing two or three highly successful ad campaigns produced several years earlier, each of which follow the formula the speaker is advocating.
I continually find myself leaving these ‘seminars’ asking the question, why did the speaker show me success stories from several years ago? If this formula is so successful wouldn’t the speaker be using it every day in which case why aren’t they showing me their latest ‘knock-em dead’ campaign from last week?
The reason is simple. Formulas in advertising work only in retrospect as a means of finding out what ‘has’ worked and ‘why’, not what ‘will’ work and ‘how’.
The truth is, ‘advertising by formula’ contradicts what effective advertising is really all about in the first place. Effective advertising is intended to position you, the advertiser, uniquely and distinctly in the marketplace and and cause the consumer to recall your message ahead of or even in replacement of your competitor’s.
You can’t do this by following rules. In fact the only way to advertise effectively is to consistently seek to break the rules.
In my business I see advertisers who frequently choose to follow suit with what others in their industry are doing rather than break free from established confines, defy the rules and really stand out. There is safety in sticking with ‘what works’ rather than looking to find ‘what works better’. The few businesses with the foresight to really step outside their marketing ‘comfort zones’ are the ones who often enjoy reaping the ultimate rewards.
I always instruct my creative staff that when they come up with a concept, if it reminds them of something they’ve seen before, whenever possible start again.
This past week I was proud to receive word that our creative team at Think. Marketing was honoured with three Summit International Advertising Awards. The awards weren’t handed out for advertising that did a good job by staying ‘within the lines’ , they were given in acknowledgement for succeeding through breaking the rules and creating new ones.
In the end, after all the formulas, secrets, guidelines and tips have been handed out remember that winning in the world of marketing comes down to one thing and its the only thing you ever really need to remember -  Break the rules... often and always.
- Adam Less is Creative Director / Managing Partner of Think Marketing. He can be reached at adaml@thethinkpad.com

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 09:24:42 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=553 There is a new owner at The Granary in Terminal Park – Gus Formal from Gus’ Pizza.
• • •
Seadrift Fish Market at Terminal Park is moving into a new location located at Suite 1, 1559 Estevan Road., next to Terminal Park Dental Clinic, operated by Dr. Claude and Andre Savoie.
The fabulous soups concocted by Carol will be available there - the same soups that have been such a hit at Northridge Centre’s Sea Drift outlet.
• • •
After 12 years working from a home based business Tanya Streeter Wilson has opened Artzi Stuff at 309 B Wesley St. in the Old City Quarter.
Aside from her own silk scarves and textile art, she is selling hand made items by numerous Vancouver Island artists.
• • •
Hank Aarsen recently started Aarsen Enterprises and is operating Aarsen Gutter Installation and cleaning and is also the distributor of Solar Water Heaters for Entropix Energy Solutions Ltd. on Vancouver island the gulf Islands.
• • •
SupErb Construction is also starting renovations immediately on the Balmoral Hotel. The deal for the Balmoral Hotel has been completed and a number of renovations will be undertaken for the occupants of the building, now under t he Canadian Mental Health Association/VIHA.
• • •
Renovations are underway to accommodate Cruise Ship Centre by Odds and Ends Contracting near Costco.
• • •
The Downtown Community Police station is moving from the library to 18 Victoria Crescent.
• • •
A new Apple Computer Store is located on Bastion Street downtown.
• • •
ULA’s Furniture & Decorating has relocated from the Nanaimo Home Centre on Bowen Rd to a new location at Longwood Station and is now known as ULA’s Couture & Furnishings.
• • •
Ilio’s Restaurant has sold and the new owner is Dan Critchley.
 • • •
Tea Desire has opened in Woodgrove Centre across from Lugaro Jewelers.
• • •
Port Place shopping centre has a development permit application with the City of Nanaimo to develop a residential condo tower in conjunction with free standing retail.
Port Place is hoping to start construction in the fall of 2009.
• • •
There will be a new Tim Horton’s built at Woodgrove Centre near the Winners store.
• • •
Cunningham & Rivard Appraisals has opened a Victoria office at 105-777 Blanshard St. and the Duncan office has moved to 300-394 Duncan Street. They also have an office in downtown Nanaimo, so that makes three offices for Dave Kirk and his team.
 • • •
Galaxy Motors is going into the cleared lot on the old Island Highway across from Long Lake.
• • •
Satellite high speed internet is now available through Island Communications.
• • •
Randall James, owner of Randall James Salon has passed away, and his business has closed.
• • •
Ricky’s Restaurant is renovating to create a residential suite above the restaurant.
• • •
Island West Coast Developments is building themselves an office and warehouse at 2218 McCullough Road.
• • •
The Art Oasis has opened Sept 3 at 43 Commercial.
• • •
On the Rock Plumbing is open and is owned by James and Sherry Roberts at 2750 Tamara Drive.
• • •
Martin Velsen – formerly with Freeport Industries & formerly of Shaw Cable is the representative for Viceroy (pre-built home manufacturer). They are also looking for a lot to build a show house in around South Nanaimo.
• • •
The old Fiesta Bowling Lanes has been torn down on Chapel Street. However, the owners have kept the giant ‘F’ sign and plan to use it with the new façade.
• • •
Superb Construction has finished the volunteer renovation for the Nanaimo Community Hospice Society at 1729 Boundary Ave.
Superb Construction along with Ian Niameth, Slegg Lumber, Mazzei Electric, Lanson’s Drywall, Allmar International, Colonial Countertops, General Paint, Wingren Floors, Anne Marie Ebdrup, Insolex, Illuminations, E&K Painting, Bedrock Redi Mix, Starline Windows, and Harbour City Plumbing transformed an old carport into a youth services facility.
- Chris Cathers writes about business in Nanaimo. Tell him your story by emailing him at chris@businessvi.ca

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 09:23:10 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=552 I frequently hear the frustration of businesses owners because their local bank or credit union won’t provide them with the financing they require.
Often the source of the frustration stems from people expecting these conventional lenders to be something they are not.
Firstly, it’s important to understand that banks and credit unions are regulated lenders and are often not permitted by statute to do what a small business owner needs. Legal restrictions often limit what conventional lenders can take as collateral or how much they can lend against particular collateral.
As the U.S. mortgage market melts down, Canadians can take comfort in the fact that government regulation has spared us from the worst excesses of the market.
Secondly, banks like other successful businesses, have determined what’s in their best interest. They might have policies that establish minimum levels of historical profitability for a loan to meet their criteria. Or perhaps there are restrictions on the type of business they can lend to.
There is nothing wrong with this. After all you, as a business owner, make decisions every day that you view are in the best interest of your enterprise.
Being turned down for a loan from a credit union or bank doesn’t mean that your business is not viable or a loan to you is a poor investment. It certainly may mean that. But it may also mean that you are looking to the wrong financing source for your business. There are other pools of capital out there.
Non-conventional lenders such as Community Futures, Business Development Bank of Canada and Ecotrust Canada Capital are not bound by the same regulatory requirements or lending policies as chartered banks and credit unions.
We are niche lenders that have been designed differently—often with clear mandates that are a better fit for your business financing needs. This doesn’t mean we don’t have limits to what we will do; all lenders have loan criteria.
It simply means that non-conventional lenders like Ecotrust Canada Capital are often able to do what your local banker is not. We can also supplement a conventional loan, ensuring that you have appropriate financing.
Sound financial management on your part should include finding the best match between available lenders and your business financing needs. That might mean that you can’t always bank on the banks.
- Bill Girard is an Investment Manager with EcoTrust Canada Capital.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 09:21:54 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=551 Echoing the real estate trends of Canadian cities in 2008, our recreational property market is returning to a more normal state with price increases moderating when compared to the fast pace experienced in 2007.
In almost all of Canada’s summer hotspots, moderating price increases bode well for cottage seekers, particularly the young professionals who make up the single largest group of those planning or considering a cottage purchase (19%), according to the 2008 Royal LePage Recreational Property Report.
The report comprises a nationwide research poll of Canadian cottage owner and buyer attitudes and actions, trends and activity in selected leisure markets across the country.
The survey showed that Canadians overwhelmingly see the benefit of owning real estate, whether a primary residence or a cottage, and found that nearly two-thirds of cottage owners and those who plan on buying a recreational property feel that buying a cottage is a better long-term investment than buying stocks, bonds, or mutual funds.
The survey revealed that 15 per cent of recreational property owners own more than one recreational property. A little more than half of Canadians who are likely to buy or are planning to buy a recreational property have budgeted to spend between $50,000 and $300,000.
The lure of the great outdoors and promise of rest and relaxation continue to trump rising gas prices as the number of Canadian recreational property owners has remained steady over the past three years at nine per cent.
However, 19 per cent of cottage owners stated they would consider selling their properties if gas prices continue to rise, an increase of seven per cent since last summer. For some cottage owners the rest and relaxation will be a bit hard to come by, as 16 per cent of respondents claim they will continue to work from the cottage.
When it comes to activities at the cottage, a remarkable 45 per cent said they would rather catch up on sleep than have a ‘romantic liaison’ with their partner.
The Top 10 most important recreational property features as reported by the respondents were, at number one pristine waterfront; four-season capability; low maintenance; proximity to primary residence; surrounding amenities; number of bedrooms; large kitchen; high-end amenities; a great room and a wine cellar.
- Warren Korbin works in partnership with his wife, Patricia, as a Realtor at Royal LePage’s Parksville office (korbins@shaw.ca)

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 09:15:24 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=550 The Comox Valley Airport plans to expand again.
Preliminary designs have been submitted to the Comox Valley Airport Commission for the new expansion that is proposed to include an additional 9000 sq. meters of space.
The new addition is being designed to accommodate the wide body Boeing 787. In addition to the expansion, another new stand alone building is being proposed to house the operations facility.
A proposal call is expected to be issued in the next few months, once the detail design has been completed and funding has been finalized.
• • •
Madeira by the Sea is a beautiful, ocean side condominium being built at on the shores of Comox harbour by developer Signature Properties.
Site preparation is underway and a sales centre has now been set up at 1819 Beaufort Avenue in Comox. 17 different floor plans are being offered in a variety of sizes from 1,350 to 2,111 sq. ft. Prices of the units range from $399,000 to $1,350,000. Anna Jorgensen from Coast Realty Group is the realtor for this project.
www.maderiabythesea.com
• • •
Fairwinds Golf and Country Club is adding 35 new lots to their development.
These lots will be located along Bonnington Drive and will be within walking distance to Enos Lake; some of the lots will feature ocean views.
Final approval for the new lots is expected to be received in the next month or two; site construction and registration are scheduled for completion in the spring of 2009. Prices will be announced at that time.
A redevelopment of Schooner Cover is also under consideration. Public input is being sought and focus groups are now being held to gain feedback regarding the property.
www.fairwinds.ca
• • •
Interior finishing is underway for the 42-unit Regency Vista condominium in Nanaimo.
This project is being built by Dueck General Contracting and is schedule for completion in December, 2008. Each of the suites boast two bedrooms and two bathrooms and vary in size from 1062 to 1775 sq. ft. Prices range from $279,000 to $669,000. Regency Vista is located at 6728 Dickson Road, a few blocks from the ocean and offers views of the Strait of Georgia and of the Winchelsea Islands.
It is within walking distance from WoodgroveCentre and Pioneer Park. Two show suites are now open. Dan Grondin is the realtor for this project.
www.regencyvista.com
• • •
The landscape in Chemainus will be changing, as construction is now underway to develop Chemainus Quay, a mixed used development that includes a new marina, multi-residential units and a large floating barge that will accommodate a lounge, restaurant and condominiums that will be sold in quarter shares.
The marina will cater to both permanent and transient boat owners and approximately 3500 linear feet of dock space will be built. The marina will be able to offer moorage to large boats up to 300 feet in length. Site preparation has begun as the access road and the bridges to the man made island are being built.
The information centre is open, at 9933 Esplanade Street in Chemainus.
- Clarice Coty is the owner of Building Links and 1stView.ca, the Vancouver Island real estate website. She can be reached at clarice@1stview.ca

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 09:14:05 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=549 “In this world nothing is certain but death and taxes.”*
In my law practice I routinely prepare Wills and Estate documents, and it seems to me that the question most often asked by my clients during the 1990’s was: “How do we avoid Probate Fees?” I thought this question had faded away, but recently, perhaps because of the increase in the value of residential real estate, it has surfaced again. The clients usually propose to avoid the Probate Fee (really a tax) and other Probate expenses by placing title to their residence in joint names with one or more of their children. This suggestion usually comes from neighbours, talk shows and other similarly reliable sources.
The word “joint” refers to joint tenancy, an arrangement where all of the owners have an equal interest in the asset, and on the death of any of them, the survivors own the whole. That is the rationale for this optimistic but short-sighted Probate avoidance scheme: ownership of the asset (usually the family home) passes automatically to the survivors and is not part of the estate of the deceased. In this process, the residence is not governed by the Will of the deceased, and accordingly is not involved in the Probate process, thus avoiding the Probate Fees on the value of the residence.
Does this sound too good to be true? In most cases it is -- life is generally more complicated than that. Over and above the basic presumption that the parent will die before the children, there are a number of reasons why this simple “solution” usually does not work. A few examples will illustrate some of the potential problems:
Loss of Control: Once the title is registered in the names of the children, the children have to be parties to any transaction involving the residence, for example a sale, or even a refinancing. This means that the children effectively have a veto over any decision. Also, if you are depending on the sale proceeds of the residence to pay for your future care, you are relying on your children not only to agree to your decision to sell (and at what price) but also to your level of future care. To pay for that care, you will be counting on your children to gift their share of the sale proceeds back to you.
Family Politics: If you have more than one child, do they get along? Sad to say, sibling rivalry is a real fact. Adult children really do fight over Mom and Dad and their assets. Will they co-operate when the time comes to sell the home? If there is a second marriage … let’s not even go there!
Your Estate Plan: A properly drawn Will provides a complete plan for the distribution of your assets in any number of foreseeable events. For example, a properly drawn Will would contemplate not just the most likely event (that the parent will die before the children), but also that the parent might survive the children. What is to happen if your child dies first, leaving children of her or his own – your grandchildren? A joint title arrangement effectively disinherits these grandchildren. Is that what you would want?
Income Tax: Have you thought through the income tax situation? Under the Canadian Income Tax Act, your home is your castle. If it is your principal residence, it is exempt from capital gains-based income taxes (i.e. “profit” made on the sale of your home). Presumably the children do not live in the residence. Accordingly, transferring an interest to them converts an asset for which the gains are exempt in your hands, to an asset for which future gains are partly taxable in their hands. It does not take much of a gain to more than cover off the Probate Fee and other Probate expenses.
Creditors: Have you considered that your children may have creditor problems? How stable is your child’s marriage? Do you want your child’s former spouse to benefit from your residence? If you transfer an interest in the residence to your children, it becomes security for your children’s creditors. In a worst case scenario, you could lose all or most of the equity in your home.
I have not raised an often unspoken hazard in attempting to plan around tax statutes. The tax authority can change its rules at any time. The Probate Fee is presently 1.4% (in round numbers) of the value of the assets. If the Province of B.C. gets serious about Probate Fees, it can change the rate or the system of taxation. One need only think back to the bad old days of succession duties and gift taxes, where a large portion of the value of an estate could be carved off by government before it reached the hands of the beneficiaries. None of these Probate avoidance schemes would have avoided those taxes.
The foregoing outlines just a few of the applicable issues. It does however illustrate some of the problems that arise with the notion of circumventing Probate Fees by putting your residence into joint ownership. There are techniques for dealing with the problems, but these techniques themselves add complication and expense.
In short, the best solution for most individuals is simply to leave things as they are and to have a properly drawn Will. Perhaps Benjamin Franklin’s old saying should be expanded to include complications and legal fees. In reality, planning for your estate may be the most important legal step you ever take. Such a critical decision should not be taken lightly, and requires proper professional advice. This often includes input from your accountants and financial advisors. It should always include legal advice.
At Johns Southward Glazier Walton & Margetts we are committed to assisting you in obtaining the estate plan that is right for you.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 09:12:39 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=548 Stubbornness is a good quality to have - if you’re right. But it’s a terrible thing if you’re wrong. Leadership is all about looking forward and sticking to the path you believe or know is right - despite discouragement and opposition.
But what do you do if what you thought was right turns out to incorrect? Reverse course? Admitting your mistakes and averting disaster is not necessarily weakness. It might just be, again, a strong indicator of leadership capabilities. It also may gain political points. Remember Ralph Klein?
Why do I bring this up? Because watching Gordon Campbell’s dogged determination to shut out calls for elimination of the hated Carbon Tax - while promising tax cuts on a number of other fronts - is giving the NDP fuel they never could find on their own. Now leader Carol James is promising to scrap the Carbon Tax if elected. That was predictable, but with the NDP,  you know they will absolutely raise taxes in other areas, or introduce another similar tax. That’s what they do, and it’s the only way they know to raise revenue: tax, and tax some more.
Campbell announced to those gathered at the recent UBCM conference that municipalities that pledged carbon neutrality would get Carbon Tax relief. But again, it’s missing the point, by a mile. Municipalities use fuel for heating and vehicles and therefore pay the Carbon Tax, but they aren’t even close to being the biggest group affected. Every citizen and business in B.C. who needs fuel to exist are the ones who are most affected. But they won’t get any relief.
How sad, because it’s the citizens and businesses of B.C. that are crying foul about the Carbon Tax. The voters.
The Carbon Tax has almost single handedly re-energized the NDP, the opponents of free enterprise, raising the spectre of a new government next spring. And we all know what an NDP government will do for our economy. Who can forget last time?
Campbell is surely banking on people falling back to this last line of reasoning before casting their ballots. But as many people are saying, it’s becoming very hard to support this type of government. They have stopped listening. And if the NDP is not an option for disaffected voters, then the prospect of a provincial Conservative party looms on the horizon, which will surely split the non-NDP vote. I received a call the other night, asking if I’d support them. I declined, citing vote splitting, but they’re asking.
We all want cleaner water and air, but Campbell’s zeal is especially tough to swallow when you read facts like this, from the National Snow and Ice Data Center (NSIDC) in an article titled “Arctic sees massive gain in ice coverage” (www.dailytech.com). “Data from the NSIDC has indicated a dramatic increase in sea ice extend in the Arctic regions. The growth over the past year covers an area of 700,000 square kilometers: an amount twice the size of the nation of Germany.” The figures are from August, 2008.
Then this: “Recent research has indicated Antarctica is on a long-term cooling trend, for reasons which remain unclear.”
Why, then, the hysteria about Global Warming? Oops - now, it’s Climate Change. (Lest we forget, the climate changes each and every season and year.) Long-time Democrat Al Gore and others rightly recognize the oil industry is the economic power base of the Republicans, and we would be remiss if we discounted the political reasons for pushing Gore’s “Inconvenient Truth”.
But don’t let the facts get in the way of ideology: That scientists are actually measuring the ice in the Arctic and Antarctic and finding it is increasing. And last winter was one of the coldest on record. These are the new “Inconvenient Truths”.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 09:10:10 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=547 When most businesses hear about the rise of social media – i.e. blogging, podcasting, social networks such as Facebook – their reactions can be paraphrased as “Interesting, but how is that going to help our business?” or “I don’t want my employees wasting their time socializing on the Web.”
With social media, the emphasis is on interaction, collaboration, and user generated content. Unlike broadcasting or publishing an ad, getting your corporate message out via social media requires an understanding of the technology, an embrace of creativity and innovation, and a willingness to launch your corporate message and your brand identity into the blogosphere (as the world of blogs has been called), then wait to see where it lands.
There are all kinds of “social media consultants” out there selling seminars and books about how your business can benefit from it, but Vancouver Island businesses need to look no further than DailySplice.com, a one-year-old social media software startup.
Founded in 2007 by a group of business and computer science students at the University of Victoria, the company has developed a product called Splice Station that makes it easy for organizations to record podcasts (a digital recording of an audio or video broadcast delivered over the Internet or downloaded to an iPod) then deliver them on their own websites.
The University of Victoria has two two Splice Stations, one for business podcasts and one that plays Software Engineering podcasts. Vancouver Island’s AbeBooks, recently acquired by Amazon.com, is also using Splice Station to channel audio and video content through a specialized player on its website.
“It’s innovative and easy to use.” says Richard Davies, PR Manager for AbeBooks.com. “Book lovers can find the world’s most interesting book reviews and interviews by visiting the AbeBooks.com website and looking for the Shelfsound logo.”
As if those examples from the world of business and the world of academia weren’t perfect enough illustrations of how social media can be used, another type of organization on Vancouver Island has also started podcasting using Splice Station.
The Saanich Police have become perhaps the first police service in Canada to use audio and video podcasts on their website at saanichpolice.ca. Click on “Podcasts” on the homepage and you’ll find links to news and information as it happens (such as a live report about Pat Bay highway traffic) to crime prevention, safety tips, unsolved crimes, media releases and media clips.
The Saanich Police department’s public information officer, Sgt. John Price, says “Podcasting is the fastest growing communication medium in history…the Saanich Police want to be part of that medium.”
- Garth A. Buchholz is the CEO and Chief Web Strategist of DigitalPractices Media Inc. (Garth@DigitalPractices.com)

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 09:08:50 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=546 Natural gas bills started arriving at homes in September with a new charge - the Campbell government’s carbon tax.
Well, everyone knew it was coming. To be fair, some of the blow will be cushioned by provincial rebates and lower income taxes. But not so the federal portion. The federal portion you ask?
As many senior citizens and families are discovering across the province, the GST is applied to the carbon tax even though it is not a good or a service.
Since the GST’s inception, the federal government has been taxing taxes. For example, Canadians pay GST on the full pump price of gasoline, including all taxes.
The law states the GST is payable on everything unless it has been excluded by legislation. So guess what? Our politicians never exclude taxes. We pay GST not only on the carbon tax but indeed all taxes on gasoline and natural gas. Just how much are we paying on natural gas?
All natural gas that is either sold or delivered in B.C. passes through two companies: Pacific Natural Gas (PNG) and Terasen Gas. PNG serves about 40,000 customers in B.C.’s north. It sells or delivers about 13 million gigajoules of natural gas per year and expects its natural gas sales to be relatively flat.
Terasen Gas serves about 900,000 customers in B.C.’s south. It sold or delivered about 221 million gigajoules of natural gas in 2007 and expects that to go up considerably in 2008, to 240 million gigajoules. Why might they expect natural gas demand to go up?
According to Dr. Don Easterbrook, a geologist at Western Washington University who has researched global climate change for the past 48 years, the 0.78 degree Celsius temperature drop of the winter of 2007-08 wiped out virtually all the global warming experienced this century and was the single largest temperature change - in any direction - ever recorded.
For Terasen Gas, at least, this means bigger sales. It also means bigger carbon tax and GST revenue for governments.
PNG’s gas customers will pay a total of about $8.2 Million in carbon tax between July 2008 and July 2009, and about $410,000 in GST. Terasen Gas customers will pay a total of about $149 Million in carbon tax between July 2008 and July 2009 and about $7.5 M in GST.
Even if natural gas sales stayed flat, the carbon tax will triple by 2012. As it goes up, so will the amount of GST gas customers fork over to the federal government.
- Maureen Bader is BC Director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 09:07:37 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=545 Over the past decade, both the federal and provincial governments have been generating large surpluses which have allowed both levels of government to dramatically reduce personal income tax rates.
Additional tax reductions have arisen from an attempt to eliminate income trusts and the double taxation of public company profits. In BC today, the highest marginal tax rate for an individual is 44%; back in the 1990s, it was 54%.
What is even more startling is that the 54% tax rate kicked in once an individual’s taxable income reached about $50,000; today, the 44% tax rate only applies to income in excess of $120,000. Tax rates have been significantly reduced!
What rate of tax will I pay on my personal investment income?
Interest and Rental Income
Interest and rental income are taxed at the general marginal tax rate of 44%, which are the least desirable sources of investment income from an income tax-point of view.
Dividends from Small Businesses
Dividends received from most small-business corporations, such as incorporated family businesses, are taxed at a maximum of 32%. This tax rate takes into consideration the fact that small-business corporations have already paid corporate income taxes of 17% before paying dividends to their shareholders.
Dividends from Public Companies
Significant changes have been made to these tax rates. The highest marginal tax rate payable on these dividends was 33% prior to the implementation of a complex set of rules which, in essence, cut the highest marginal tax rate on these dividends in half, down to 16%.
These new rules have eliminated the double taxation of profits generated by public companies. Prior to these rules, up to 65% of the profits earned by public companies ended up being paid to the Government! These new rules have also eliminated most of the benefits that public companies enjoyed by converting into income trusts.
Capital Gains
Not only have the reductions in the general tax rate reduced the tax rate paid on capital gains, but the capital gains inclusion rate has also been reduced over the past many years. Back in the 1990s, 75% of a capital gain was taxed at a rate of 54%; and today, only 50% of a capital gain is taxed at 44%.
Therefore, the highest marginal tax rate on capital gains has been reduced from 40% to 22%!
- Doug Tyce, CA, is a partner of the Nanaimo CA firm, Tyce Carle-Thiesson, Chartered Accountants.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 09:05:56 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=544 Do you think Tiger Woods was born to play golf? Probably.
Is it probable he has taken lessons, listens to a coach or studies the game to increase his success and helps him stay at the top of his profession?
Are there people at your local club who seem to come by it naturally? Probably. Did they take lessons or take outside advice? Do they watch the pros, update their equipment or subscribe to Golf Magazine to keep them sharp?
How many people got and stay on top without anyone else’s help? Everyone needs help. It’s one of the critical elements of success. Know how to ask for help. You don’t have to reinvent the wheel and you can’t think of everything yourself.
So how do you help your salespeople? Some people believe that salespeople are born. A few years ago I asked a friend of mine why his daughter wanted to get in to sales. He said, “I’m not sure, but she’s definitely cut out for it.” I said how’s that?” “Well” he said, “she’s got the gift to gab.”
It’s funny how we perceive salespeople. What makes a great salesperson? Some people think it’s their ability to talk, others may place a lot of emphasis on their personal charm, and sometimes it’s because they won’t take ‘no’ for an answer.
All of these impressions come from their past influences and they are outdated and don’t work. Success in sales today is dependent on so much more. Today clients are smarter and have access to more information. They make better decisions and need a salesperson in business who will help them make a buying decision. They won’t be bullied and when it comes to charm, you can get by on charm for fifteen minutes but after that you better know something if you plan to make a living in the selling profession.
When I speak to business owners I get some very radical views of how they perceive salespeople. Some see them as the front lines of their ability to generate revenue. One CEO I know believes salespeople are the backbone of business and it’s the sales profession that ultimately grows the economy. Many CEOs feel it’s the sales team that drives the worth of their company. That’s not to undermine any other departments but they believe if no one is selling then no one is working.
The other point of view is salespeople are hired guns who must make it on their own. The business supplies the product, the marketing, and the facilities and the rest is up to the sales person. I wonder what would have happened to Mohammed Ali or Serenna Williams under similar circumstances? Would s/he have risen to be the best of the best?
Finding great salespeople is tough. The good ones are likely happy where they are and don’t want to move. So how do you get the next superstar in to your sales driven organization?
Start by finding someone who has the basics. They have desire, commitment and the courage to fail. Of the three critical areas of attitude, behaviour and techniques needed to be successful in sales, it’s the attitude you have to have internally. Behaviour and techniques can be enhanced with training but the attitude must be internal. What’s under the umbrella of attitude? It’s things like Self-Concept. It’s important that your self-esteem and confidence be strong (but not obnoxious). Selling is a high-rejection business. If you’re reluctant to hear ‘no’ or get depressed because the sale didn’t happen chances are all the training won’t change that.
Attitude also includes Internal Motivation. Are you truly a self-starter or do you need someone else setting the pace? It’s also important that your attitude include being Success Driven and Money Motivated. That doesn’t mean you work 80 hours a week and give up on the rest of your life. It does mean that during your “pay-time” you are committed to doing what it takes. Attitude also means that Challenge, Growth and Change are positive and you’re not happy with the status quo or your current comfort zone.
We need to start with individuals who want success and are willing to do what it takes to get there. We need the budding Tiger Woods of sales who want to get better and will build on their natural ability. However, that’s only step one. Without step two, three and four you’ll continually find yourself at step one.
Step two, three and four include working with your people to make them better at their job, developing their confidence and self-esteem and providing resources that help them grow your business.
- John Glennon is the owner of Insight Sales Consulting Inc, an authorized Sandler Training Licensee. He can be reached at jglennon@sandler.com.

]]> Fri, 03 Oct 2008 09:04:12 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=543 • Adam Nice, an assistant pro with the Storey Creek Golf Club, led his Team West to snatch the Storey Cup from Butch ‘Butcher’ Kelly’s Team East.

• Rehabilitation in Motion Inc. has purchased their second location to serve customers, and is now also located near Save On Foods on Greenwood Street.

• Chef Brian Quarmby is congratulated upon graduating from the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts’ Culinary Program with honors.

• Shadoe Intimates is now in a location opposite Galaxy Theatre, on 249 - 10th Avenue.

• July’s Top Salesman and Top New Car Salesman awards were awarded to Kevin Grief from Bill Howich Chrysler RV & Marine, on 2777 North Island Highway. • Colleen Evans is the new Executive Director at the Campbell River & District Chamber of Commerce.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:32:44 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=542 • Raymond Henderson, General Manager of Vista Radio Coast Group, is excited that Powell River’s new radio station, The Sun 95.7 FM, launched August 28.

• Bill Cripps, a retired pulp and paper operations manager, has been appointed to a one year term on the Vancouver Island University board of governors.

• The Ignite Design company, owned by design artist Leanne Penner, is new to Powell River and provides professional graphic designs for businesses and events.

• Mark Muzylowski is welcomed on board Powell River’s Royal Bank Branch as their new Mobile Financial Planner. He can be reached at 604-485-4201.

• Shawn Bailey has introduced her new online business, named Bailey’s Quilting HeadQuarters, to Powell River. The website, www.baileysquiltinghq.com, offers a variety of quilting inventory to buyers.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:32:02 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=541 • Ken Dawson is set to take over from Dave Mellin as the new chair for the Comox Valley Airport Commission.

• Brian Rice’s Courtenay Toyota welcomes Glenice Neal to their team of professionals.

• Andrew Martin has recently taken the position of Executive Chef working at the Longlands Fore! Restaurant.

• Dr. Alfredo Tura of Italy, Dr. Daniella Chifor of Romania, and Dr. Oleg Baranoff of Russia, are welcomed to the Comox Valley as three new graduates of an international program.

•Stephen McGrath and Helen Grond, owners of Middle Mountain Mead on Hornby Island, have created a new product to add to their beverage line. The alcohol, named the Mead of Inspiration, is exotically flavored and based on one of the most dated alcohol-based beverages on the earth.

• Ageless Auction Services, located in Merville, has changed owners to Cindy Brown and Angela Allsworth.

• ABC Printing, on 416-C Puntledge Road, is now in its 15th year of business, owned by Berni and Steve Hansen and Bryan and Joanne Wiley.

• Mike Paroshy has received top honors as Salesman of the Month for July, at the Brian McLean Chevrolet Ltd. dealership on 2145 Cliffe Avenue.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:31:23 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=540 • The board for Tourism Vancouver Island again includes Dave Christensen, with Tofino and Ucluelet’s Jamie’s Whaling Station.

• Rob Bremner has chosen to accept a position as the District of Sechelt’s Chief Administrative Officer, and will be leaving his current job as the CAO for District of Tofino. 

• Kennedy Lake was chosen as one location in a vehicle catalogue photoshoot for a new model of Skoda Czech cars due next year.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:30:41 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=539 • Warehouse One The Jean Store has finally opened a location in Port Alberni, at the Pacific Rim Shopping Centre on 3555 Johnston Road.

• The Pine Restaurant has reopened their place in 2940 - 3rd Avenue, serving Szechuan, Canadian and Chinese inspired dishes.

• The Alberni Denture Clinic has changed spots, and can now be found near the J&L Drive-In and Beltone Hearing Center.

• The Inspire Hair Salon & Holistics can now be found on #103 - 4917 Pemberton Road.

• Jon Churma has joined the staff at Miller’s Place restaurant, on 4833 Johnston Road, and will work as their new sous chef.

• Columbia Fuels has moved to a new space on 3169 2nd Avenue, and continues to provide quality service.

• Ike Patterson, the Acting Mayor for Port Alberni, has decided to run for council, possibly making this his third term.

• Tim Pley has risen up to take the place of former fire chief Larry McGifford, for the Port Alberni Fire Department.

• Gary Cathers is welcomed onto the sales team of Dennis Jonsson Motor Products Ltd. at 3800 Johnston Road.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:30:06 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=538 • Parksville’s new All About Me ladies fitness centre has recently celebrated their grand opening in #11 - Heritage Centre.

• Virginia Worcester of Qualicum Beach, received second place honors for her Borealis Hair Bar, at a Paul Mitchell global salon contest.

• A larger area for female clients is featured in the extension of Bodyworks Fitness, at 162 Morrison Avenue in Parksville.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:29:22 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=537 • Nearing his 65th birthday in the coming year, Bill Mills, the current president of the Nanaimo Port Authority has decided to retire.

• The Wheatsheaf Pub, on 1866 Cedar Road, is in its 30th year of business.

• Dr. Steve Beerman has been chosen to lead the International Life Saving Federation for the next four years.

• George Hansen, formerly a director with the Downtown Nanaimo Partnership,  has accepted a job offer with the InSight Group. He’ll be working on a new project new Parksville for the company.

• The building on 1805 Fremont Road now houses the Nanaimo Bottle Depot, as their new location for recycling.

• Mark’s Work Wearhouse celebrates its grand opening of its newest location in Unit 1 - 6334 Metral Drive.

• West Coast Air has selected John Ring as their current vice president.

• Ron Jones, proprietor of Mid Island Automotive Repairs Ltd. at 2210 Wilgress Road, is Nanaimo’s newest NAPA Autopro member.

• Kim Sihota has started a new business called Enviro Foam, which offers spray foam insulation for homes and businesses. It’s part of the Green Built program, made out of soya bean oil and recycled plastic bottles. www.whyfoamisbetter.com

• Don Hubbard is pleased to note that the official opening of Hub City Paving’s new asphalt plant and facility was August 22. Hub City Paving is a Division of Lafarge Canada Inc.

• Sue Dawson has started Island Summit Personal Training, which aims to motivate people and help them get into shape.

• Bill Stockmann has started Stockmann Images, a graphic design and illustration firm based in Nanaimo. His customers are small companies that require high quality design for printing and publishing. Bill can be reached at wcstockmann2shaw.ca

• Stu Smith and Deanna Stephenson have teamed up to form Smith Safety Solutions Inc., which sells custom safety programs, primarily for the forest and construction industries. They can be reached via email at sidsmith@shaw.ca.

• There’s plenty of new from Woodgrove Centre, notes Marketing Director Nola Dunn. Bagels ‘N’ More is now open beside Reitman’s, offering baked bagels, cream cheese and lunch items.

• Sweet Factory is also open, beside Bluenotes, carrying a wide variety of sweets and candies.

• Garage is now in their newly renovated location near the Food Court.

• Tea Desire, which offers a variety of international teas and tea accessories, is now open beside BLUSH.

• Michelle Rudderham is the new store manager of Shoppers Drug Mart in Woodgrove.

• Flight Centre has placed sixth in Canada for company-wide sales. For their efforts, all staff members received a well earned trip to Hawaii.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:28:44 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=536 • John Surtees, a realtor with Re/MAX Ocean Pointe, is now the president of the Ladysmith Dowtown Business Association. He formerly served the organization as secreatry. Tina Fabbro is vice president.

• Catherine Jones is a new “Live Well” Pharmacist at Pharmasave, at 441 First Avenue in Ladysmith.

• Nanaimo Foundry celebrated 120 years in business with a special celebration September 5, notes president Rob Marshall. The facility is at 3538 Smiley Road in Chemainus.

• Hansel & Gretel’s Candy Co., on 9748 Willow Street, is a new shop in Chemainus offering a wide variety of tempting treats to customers.

• A new business has opened up at 930 Ludlow Road. Wash Me provides outside and inside cleaning services to vehicles such as trucks, boats, RVs and cars.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:27:49 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=535 • Mid Island Cabinets, located on 552 Trunk Road, is a brand new store which specializes in supplying quality cabinets to their customers.

• At BowMel Chrysler, on 461 Trans Canada Highway, Tom Johnsen has finished at the top of the July sales chart.

• Steve Aydon is congratulated upon achieving the title of Salesman of the Month for July, at the Peter Baljet GM dealership on 6300 Trans Canada Highway.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:27:20 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=534 • Randy Wright, vice president of sales and marketing for Harbour Air, has been appointed chair of Tourism Victoria. He takes over from Roger Soane, who recently stepped down as general manager of the Fairmont Empress and as board chair.

• Tom Sanders has started Cellfix Wireless Repairs at 2716 Rock Bay Avenue, just off Gorge. The business fixes cell phones. He can be contacted at 250-920-5800.

• The Mark Restaurant has been awarded the Award of Excllence from Wine Spectator magazine for its 26 seat dining room in the Hotel Grand Pacific. Emory Haines, Director of Operations and Food and Beverage, notes The Mark has over 400 wines from around the globe, and the award is for “having one of the most outstanding restaurant wine lists in the world.”

• The Beltone Hear Care Centre in Sidney has been relocated to 2359 James White Boulevard, where it will continue to offer quality service and care.

• Gerry Underhill, formerly of Dockside Green, will now work as the senior project architect for Stantec.

• Sharon, David, and Tyler Jensen have purchased the Langford Book Exchange, on 106 - 721 Station Avenue, from Janet Murdoch. The book store was created by Murdoch’s grandfather, and had been in the family for 48 years of business.

• Gord McOrmand has chosen an empty grocery store location in the Quadra Street Village, as a spot for his Simply Computing and Cameras Victoria location.

• B.C. Transit has hired on Joanna Morton as their new spokeswoman and media liaison, taking over from Ron Drolet, in order for him to better take care of his responsibilities as senior vice president.

• Michael Marshall, a former graphic artist for thirty years, has purchased Grower Direct from Bob and Carol Podritske. The business specializes in distributing fresh flowers to the surrounding areas.

• Victoria Battery Direct, owned by Pat and Dale Pearson, has changed locations to serve at 791 Cave Street, in Esquimalt.

• Dave Cahill’s Old Town Strings  shop, will soon be moving to a new space in 1034 Hillside Avenue, and will downsize it’s services to repair-only.

• Verico Select Mortgage recently hired Bruce MacLeod, formerly with Scotiabank, as their branch manager.

• Jordans Warehouse Outlet is now available for business in Langford, on 882 Langford Parkway.

• Martin Wegren, a Certified Financial Planner, is welcomed on board at Island Savings.

• Dr. Michael Lewis has joined Dr. Louise Morin and Dr. Brian Joslin’s optometry practice, located on #5 - 6726 Westcoast Road, and 105 - 814 Goldstream Avenue.

• The Brentwood Bay Liquor Store is now open to serve customers, at 7143 West Saanich Road.

• Kerry L. Simmons will now work on the professional team at Cook Roberts LLP Lawyers, at 1175 Douglas Street.

• The Tibetan Kitchen, in Suite 140 Market Square, is a small restaurant run by Pemba Bhatia which serves authentic Tibet food to hungry clients.

• Victoria’s Liberty Furniture store has been put up for sale beginning at $2.95 Million, and will be listed through Colliers International.

• The Ministry of Children and Family Development welcomes Carolyn Heiman, previously with the Times Colonist, aboard as their manager of media relations.

• Contech, Inc. has appointed Chris Taylor as director of finance. Taylor served as the chief financial officer for Madesco Technologies, Inc. in Victoria and the director of finance for PureEdge Solutions, Inc. before moving to Contech.  He has also worked as a chartered accountant for Deloitte and Touche International. Contech researches, designs and manufactures animal care and control products and non-toxic pest management systems.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:26:56 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=533 Vancouver Island has been a hotbed for companies such as Udutu Learning Systems Inc.™ New Media and Etraffic Solutions that are delivering online learning solutions to business, education and government organizations worldwide.

Roger Mundell, CEO of Udutu (Udutu.com), thinks the Island, and Victoria in particular, could be come the “Silicon Valley of content.”

“Vancouver Island is as competitive as anywhere in the world, if anything, more competitive, because there are so many artists and writers, and the Web is all about creative people,” says Mundell, whose three-year-old company now has 11 employees.

“And we’ve always had better broadband Internet coverage than any North American city. For the Web business, it’s a great place to be, although it’s not perceived that way if you talk to (U.S.) venture capitalists.”

Udutu.com offers a web-based, online course authoring tool everyone can afford, and it’s simple enough for any subject matter expert to use to create an online course.

“In the past only big enterprises or government could afford to pay $60k or more for eLearning,” says Mundell. “We wanted to eliminate that first barrier so anyone can do it.” They also launched a Facebook application that allows instructors or learners to link Udutu courses to their Facebook profile.

Mundell’s own story of how Udutu came to be is an example of how Vancouver Island has fostered the growth of eLearning. In the mid-70s, Mundell and his business partner Roger Smith, a Motorola engineer, started the world’s first retail computer store in Mesa, Arizona, and Mundell says Smith coined the term “personal computers.”

After they sold the company in 1984, Mundell (an avid sailor himself) bought a shipyard business, which he later sold to investors and retired. However, he decided to enroll in the first class at Royal Roads University, then because of his extensive business experience started getting involved with the board, then was later offered a job as the Director of Innovation and Research.

“Royal Roads was a living .aboratory for online learning. They were creating programs for mid-career learners who had full-time jobs, so a different kind of learning had to happen – the kinds of challenges that make online learning so interesting.”

Mundell headed up the award winning team that created the Cedar research projects at Royal Roads, and pioneered many of the elearning concepts in widespread use today. The team left the university to create Udutu in October, 2005.

Every day Udutu has inquiries coming in from places as far away as Saudi Arabia, Germany and Peru, says Mundell.

“Those are places we never dreamed of penetrating.”

After a Turkish organization found Udutu.com online and used it for a proposal to the United Nations, Mundell got a call from the U.N. asking his company to visit New York to train U.N. staff and become an established vendor, which normally requires a long approval process.

“We had a similar experience with Microsoft as well,” Mundell adds, almost as a footnote to Udutu’s amazing, yet not surprising, success in the eLearning sector.

- Garth A. Buchholz is the CEO and Chief Web Strategist of DigitalPractices Media Inc. (Garth@DigitalPractices.com)

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:25:20 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=532 Courtenay is getting another new hotel.
A development permit has been submitted by architects, Dishlevoy and Hagarty for a new 95 unit hotel at 3070 Kilpatrick Avenue. The four storey hotel will be run under the banner of Days Inn, by developer and owner CGC Holdings Ltd. of Saskatoon and will feature large meetings rooms, business facilities and a pool.
Phase II will include a free standing restaurant adjacent to the hotel. Once all approvals are in place, construction is expected to begin immediately.
• • •
Site construction is underway for Surgenor Brewing Company on Shamrock Place in Comox. The building will be approximately 6,000 sq. ft. in size and will house the brewery and two floors of office space.
Beer production is expected to begin as soon as the construction has been completed. The new beer should be on the market in approximately six months.
• • •
A rezoning application has been given first and second readings by Campbell River for a new 40-unit condominium at 391 Island Highway.
The application, made by Bob Eakin, will consolidate and rezone three properties to allow for the project to be built, incorporating green building practices into the construction. The existing motel will be demolished to make way for the new development.
The condominium will feature a variety of floor plans ranging from 1,027 to 2,344 sq. ft.
• • •
Construction is nearing completion on Phase I of The Horizon at Hammond Bay, a townhouse development, offering residents views of the ocean and of the Winchelsea Islands.
Three of the first six units have been sold; construction on Phase II, featuring seven units is scheduled to begin construction in October. The townhouses range in price from $419,000 to $429,000 and vary in size from 1,400 to 1,770 sq. ft. This is a pet-friendly development and 3.5 acres have been set aside as part of the common property.  www.horizonsbc.com
• • •
Urbia Development Inc. has launched the marketing campaign for Silkwind, a new 150-unit condominium at 342 Whale Road in Colwood.
This project features floor plans with units ranging in size from 1,071 to 1,251 sq. ft. Prices range from $535,000 to $975,000. Twenty-five units have been sold, including one of two penthouses which are $1.6 and $ 1.9 Million each. Construction is expected to begin this fall, with a completion date of Fall, 2010.
www.silkwind.ca

- Clarice Coty is the owner of Building Links and 1stView.ca, the Vancouver Island real estate website. She can be reached at clarice@1stview.ca

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:24:22 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=531 George Hansen is leaving the Downtown Nanaimo Partnership to work with Insight Developments.
Insight Developments has purchased the old Shaw Cable building on Poplar Street.
• • •
Pure Self Defense Studios has taken over the Domestic Appliance location just south of Tim Horton’s on Bowen Road.
• • •
Cormode & Dickson Construction is the general contractor for the renovations at the Tim Horton’s on Bowen Road.
Tim Horton’s and Amrikko’s are adding locations in the Woodgrove Centre food court.
• • •
Jon Beekman is the new base manager at Westcoast Air.
• • •
Kevin Dooks has left Sun Life and has started with Desjardin Financial.
• • •
The Drift Restaurant is open again, this time with some new menu changes.
• • •
Hub City Paving had their grand opening of their new asphalt plant and office building. With the new plant they are able to produce a ‘warm mix asphalt’ which is a new ‘green asphalt’ product.
• • •
A new free standing liquor store is going in at Country Club Centre.
• • •
Nanaimo North Town Centre will soon be home to another Urban Planet.
• • •
A new restaurant called Bagels and More has moved into 11 - 6631 Island Highway at the Woodgrove Centre.
• • •
Nanaimo Mini Storage on South Wellington is adding an additional two units.
• • •
Houle Electric purchased old the old Recycling Centre on Cienar Drive., and is now building a new shop there.
• • •
The Boys and Girls Club have taken over the Chase River Fire Hall due to the expansion of daycare volume.
• • •
Colby Althouse is the new events coordinator for the Kidney Foundation.
• • •
Westcore Industries has opened a satellite location at Sun Peaks Resort near Kamloops.
• • •
3rd Element Stone Products is a new counter top wholesaler located temporarily next to Cascade. They will be moving into a new building, currently under construction in the Parkway Industrial Park.
• • •
Rocky Point Engineering is opening a new office in the Longwood Station below Thrifty Foods.
• • •
The MISTIC awards are set for November 6 at the Vancouver Island Conference Centre.
• • •
Ray Brittain, owner of Brechin Lanes, has been appointed Treasurer of Bowl BC.
• • •
There is a new sales manager at Harris Mitsubishi - Steve Johnson from Winnipeg.
• • •
Barb Grub has replaced Allison Haywood at Origins.
• • •
Pat Fischer has joined Canadian Western Bank as a senior personal lender.
Jean Marc Jacquier has been promoted to Senior Commercial Lender at the Canadian Western Bank.
• • •
The Atlas Group now offers timber framed entry systems and accents as well as pre-fabricated stairs for residential and commercial construction.
• • •
Transglobal Business Group Inc. is a newly formed business owned and operated by Judy Michaud.
Transglobal Business Group offers small to medium sized businesses training services, and consulting in strategic planning, business and marketing plans. Their training aspect consists of 63 foundational business training components from beginner to advanced subjects.
• • •
The Nanaimo Foundry is celebrating their 120th year anniversary.
Nanaimo Foundry has recently experienced six years of steady growth by supporting their traditional forestry based customers while focusing on growth in other industries such as mining, aggregate, aircraft, water treatment and petroleum. They’re now in Chemainus.
• • •
Island Pallet has moved into the old Quick Freight building in downtown Nanaimo.
• • •
Swim Wear Etc. will be moving into their new location at Woodgrove Centre soon.

- Chris Cathers writes about business in Nanaimo. Tell him your story by emailing him at chris@businessvi.ca

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:22:21 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=530 POWELL RIVER - New residential construction boosted building permits in June, 2008 as a total of 14 permits valued at $1.1 Million were issued. In June 2007, total value of new permits was $368,125.
Finalists for top entrepreneur
POWELL RIVER - Donald McInnes of Plutonic Power Corporation has been named a finalist in the Natural Resources, Energy category for the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Awards.

Plutonic Power is building hydroelectric projects in the Powell River region.
Rick Baxter of Westcoast Air Ltd. was named a finalist in the Business-to-consumer products and services category.
Pacific region winners will be announced October 8, with the winner advancing to the national banquet in November.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:21:23 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=529 LADYSMITH - Ex-National Hockey League star Geoff Courtnall and actress Pamela Anderson have received approval from Ladysmith council to build an 83 unit development on two hectares of Anderson’s waterfront property.
The project will be five storeys and include a penthouse. “We’re very excited, it’s been a year and a half, we’ve been working hard to get to this point,” says Courtnall. ‘Now the work begins.”

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:19:59 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=528 UCLUELET - The Island West Resort is in foreclosure, and the owners have opted for a court ordered sale of the property.
The property is listed for $7.25 Million, $2 Million less than its appraised value. The sale includes the Eagle’s Nest Pub, and recently upgraded marina, motel, lodge and recreational vehicle campground.
Island West had been planning an expansion of the resort, and 14 units were to become affordable housing.

Power project for Canoe Creek
UCLUELET - The Barkley Group is partnering with the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation to build a run of river hydro project on Canoe Creek.
Approval has been granted to allow a three kilometre road to be built off Highway 4 at Marion Creek in connection with the project, which will cover a total area of approximately 10 hectares.
The project has not yet been approved by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and the Ministry of Environment.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:19:24 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=527 NANAIMO - Sleep Country Canada will be purchased by Westerkirk Capital Inc. and Birch Hill Equity Partners Management for $356 Million.
The friendly takeover of Canada’s biggest mattress retailer, headed by co-founder Christine Magee 14 years ago, was announced in August. Sleep Country has a store on Mary Ellen Drive in Nanaimo, and 160 stores in Canada in total, along with 46 in Arizona.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:18:34 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=526 PORT ALBERNI - The owner of the former Beaufort Hotel on Third Avenue plans to tear down the property, with plans to build new apartments or add four floors onto the Convention Centre on Angus Street.
Paul Saroya says he also hopes to attract a hotel chain to the site.

Duncan joins Hupacasath
PORT ALBERNI - Robert Duncan has been hired as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Hupacasath First Nation.
Duncan comes from his most recent post as president of the Naut’sa mawt Resources Group on the Tsawwassen Reserve on the lower mainland. He was economic development officer for the Campbell River Indian Band and was instrumental in the creation and development of the Discovery Harbour Shopping Centre.
Duncan replaces CEO Trevor Jones.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:18:05 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=525 VICTORIA - There’s a new Farmer at the helm of Accent Inns.
Many Farmer officially took over as CEO of Accent Inns from her father, Terry Farmer, in August, keeping the hotel chain in the family.
Terry Farmer founded the Stay n’ Save Motor Inn in 1986. The Stay n’ Save brand was changed to Accent Inns several years ago, after the chain had grown to five properties across the province.
Terry is staying on as Chairman of the company of 3 ½ star hotels based in Victoria, with properties in Burnaby, Kelowna, Kamloops, and at Vancouver Airport.
“Mandy grew up surrounded by the hospitality industry,” Terry says. “She’s familiar with and enthusiastic about every aspect of being a hotelier, and her pride in taking over the family business is not something easily found in other candidates.”
Mandy’s passion for the hospitality industry – and hotels in particular – has been steadfast since she was a young girl. Without provocation from her family, Mandy has worked her way up the hospitality ladder – starting by cleaning rooms at a local bed and breakfast, bussing tables and working at the front desk before moving to a supervisory position at The Empress Hotel, followed by her most recent position as vice president at Accent Inns.
With an Executive MBA under her belt before the age of 30 – earned in 2003 while simultaneously working full-time – Mandy’s determination and credentials dispel any qualms about her coasting on being the “boss’s daughter.”
She has taken part in executive programs at Cornell University, and Canadian Professional Management Services, and volunteers her time as a past-president of the Canadian Association of Family Enterprise and as a motivational speaker for the Go2 Speaker’s Bureau, a non-profit association promoting careers in B.C.’s tourism industry.
“Mandy possesses fresh ideas and strong strategic corporate vision, along with the utmost respect for the company’s core values,” Terry says. “The company has exciting times in store with Mandy leading the way.”
Mandy’s plans include the growth of the hotels into new markets across B.C. and Alberta; the re-branding and expansion of Accent Inns’ sister chain, Blue Ridge Inn; enhanced “greening” of the hotels, guided by the Triple Bottom Line principles of social environmental and fiscal responsibility; and to build on the company’s current reputation on one of B.C.’s best places to work.
“Accent Inns is very much a team effort and our employees are like extended family. We want them to be happy, continue to grow professionally, and of course, never leave home,” Mandy says.
The family approach continues to work – in a business notorious for staff turnover, Accent Inns has 54 employees out of a team of roughly 200  with tenure of over 10 years, and 77 employees who have been with the company five years or more. Mandy aspires to continue the chain’s low staff turnover with ongoing professional development opportunities, alongside salary and benefit packages that top industry norms.
One professional development program Mandy created is “Commitment to Community” (C to C) – an annual initiative that empowers employees to act for change in their own communities.  Each Accent Inn hotel has established C to C committees to research and determine their community’s needs, and with corporate assistance, affect change.
www.accentinns.com

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:17:05 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=524 NANAIMO - Imagine a business world where everybody wins.
• The company’s bottom line grows beyond expectations,
• Employees work smarter, make more money, reap the benefits of working as a team,  and stay with the company.
• And most importantly, customers benefit from the increased attention place on service.
Ron Berry, business coach and senior advisor with Ron Berry Business Advisors, has imagined it. So has Grant McDonald, CA, a partner with Church Pickard Chartered Accountants. To that end, they’ve been working together on a revolutionary incentive plan they call “Get A Grip”, which they believe can significantly alter the way companies do business.
“Shortages in the workforce and increased pressures on employers have inspired us to develop a plan to help business owners regain control of their companies. To ‘Get A Grip’ on their business, if you will,” Berry notes. “Business owners often struggle to attract, motivate and compensate their staff, and this plan does that.”
Basically, the plan works through a two-step budgeting process. A working budget based on current production levels, and a secondary budget based on improved production levels that are attained as employees reach for incentive bonuses. And, of course, accountability.
“We work with the business owners and employees to see what can be done to get that ‘little bit more’ production needed to achieve the goals,” says Berry. “This includes setting targets that must be achieved in order for higher earnings to start.
“If the targets aren’t met, then the incentives don’t kick in. If the targets are reached, then a formula for distribution of those additional earnings kicks in. And everybody wins.”
McDonald and Berry unveiled the initial concept to a group of business people several months ago and the response has been encouraging.
“Several owners and presidents have already implemented the plan in their respective organizations, and are very pleased with the results,” adds Berry.
Business owners have found that employees have been coming forward with new ways to improve productivity, and there is a heightened level of activity. Business is improving.
Companies this program would ideally work for typically have three or more staff members, gross revenues of between $500,000 and $30 Million, and are prepared to have accurate monthly financial statements produced by fixed dates.
The program must be tested and measured on a monthly basis, and quarterly reviews involving owners and employees must be conducted. Monthly financial statements and results will not be disclosed to the employees.  Only financial results relating to the plan designed for the company will be discussed. 
Why does Berry believe this plan works?
“We firmly believe that tying extra earnings to increased profits is in the best interest of the company, customers and staff,” he says. “Workers earn above and beyond their base pay for working smarter rather than harder - the better they do their job, the greater the profits they generate for the company, and the greater the rewards for themselves.
“While this may sound a lot like ‘profit sharing’ there are some distinct differences. This system of incentives allows workers to decide what they will earn each year, while promoting teamwork as staff takes ownership of their efforts.”
Berry observes that in years gone by, employee remuneration was a private matter. Today, however, workers often openly discuss what they make, which can create some staff division, if there are inequities. The program’s “everyone works, everyone profits” helps in that regard.
Rather than frequent reviews of employee wages, often at the worker’s request, the plan proposes a single annual pay raise in keeping with a pre-set skill-based schedule, plus the Canadian Price Index (CPI).
“Beyond that, we suggest employees be given the opportunity to earn additional funds relative to increased profits they generate for the company. Some might call it a bonus. We choose to call it incentive.”
McDonald says “When I work with companies where there is obvious room for improvement, most time it comes down to production out of their greatest asset, their employees.
“How to get employees motivated to produce more efficiently and effectively is very challenging. Having the GRIP program in my back pocket has allowed me to offer these companies a solution to their problem. 
“Inspiring the employees is the solution and a tailor made program of sharing unexpected profits with their employees is the motivator. The key to any successful program is a system. Working with Ron has provided the system behind the Get A Grip program where we hold the employees accountable and share the company’s success,” McDonald adds. 
“We feel employees are motivated through profit sharing when it is not only earned, but they understand where it came from - their hard work.”
Berry can be contacted via email at ron@rbbusinessadvisors.ca, and McDonald at GrantMcDonald@ChurchPickard.com

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:16:28 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=523
CAMPBELL RIVER - With his first subdivision, Nigel Van Hove of NVH Homes has scored a Silver CARE Award and is a finalist for a Gold.

Van Hove says he is honoured and excited to have won a Silver CARE Award. Varsity Landing is unique in several ways. It’s an 18-unit bare land strata subdivision, meaning that the homeowner owns the land and pays strata fees on the roads and maintenance. But what really makes the homes unique is the philosophy that went into their building.

NVH Homes is the first Built Green™ certified builder in the city and each home in the subdivision received a Built Green™ designation. Van Hove says that building his homes in a more environmentally friendly manner was important.

“We try to eliminate our wood waste and create better air quality,” he says. “We use different kinds of paint and carpeting that are low VOC – it’s just about providing a better and a healthier home. It does require a fair bit of extra work and if I didn’t care I wouldn’t have done it. We all have to be more environmentally conscious.”

Another unique factor about Varsity Landing is that the entire subdivision was developed by one builder and every home was built by NVH Homes. Homeowners at Varsity Landing are assured that each home will look beautiful and that the landscaping will set it off perfectly.

The homes are all high quality while still being extremely affordable, Van Hove says noting that his entire philosophy can be summed up in the words, “Custom quality homes – at affordable prices.”

The homes in Varsity Landing range between 2,795 – 3,000 square feet with prices starting at just over $300,000. NVH Homes offers upgrades to the basic package such as hardwood floors, quartz countertops and heat pumps – but the quality construction and finishing is the same in every home.

“Everything is very high quality,” Van Hove says.

Van Hove has been building homes in Campbell River since 2003. He grew up working for an uncle who built homes and became certified as a carpenter right out of high school. For 10 years he worked as a framer and led his own framing crew.
“I like to work with my hands,” he says. “I get to work with good people and it’s something I’ve always enjoyed.”

He worked in Pitt Meadows on a 160 home subdivision and with various builders in the Lower Mainland perfecting and honing his trade. After moving to Campbell River and working for a year as a framer, he decided to build his own homes. Campbell River was a well-thought-out choice, he says.

“Campbell River is growing and yet it’s still affordable. I looked at it and thought the city was a great place with a great lifestyle.”

When he founded his company he began by building one custom home at a time. The company was successful quickly, Van Hove says. This year he will build about 25 homes and even when they are not strictly custom, every home is treated as a custom home.

“We don’t build a run-of-the-mill home,” Van Hove says. “We put a lot into our homes. Many homes are sold before they are built and then I work with the homeowner and it becomes a custom home. We do a lot of wood working in the home such as crown mouldings and wainscoting and other details.”

After the success of his first subdivision, Van Hove is moving on to his next project. Timberland Drive is a 21 lot executive home subdivision that will also be of the highest quality. Van Hove notes that he is also considering moving on to condominium projects although at this point that is only in the “thinking about” stage.
No matter what he does next, he says it will always be about custom quality homes at affordable prices – and it will be in Campbell River.

“I plan to build in Campbell River for many years. I like the type of community that Campbell River is.”

As for the CARE Award, he says it’s a great acknowledgement of what the company is all about.

“It shows that NVH Homes puts a lot of effort into their houses,” he says. “We also take a lot of pride in our houses and I think that it shows.”
www.nvhhomes.com

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:14:38 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=522 Existing home sales, as measured by the Multiple Listing Service (MLS®) are expected to fall by 11.9 per cent in 2008 to 458,300 units, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s (CMHC) third quarter Housing Market Outlook.

In 2009, the trend will continue with a decrease to 446,600 units (-2.6 per cent). Despite a slowdown of MLS sales, demand remains strong by historical standards
At the provincial level, despite BC’s growing population and job numbers a well-supplied resale home market will lower new construction. A tight labour market will partially offset the dampening effect of rising mortgage carrying costs on the demand for new and existing homes.

As well, an increase in the number of existing homes for sale will offer more choice to home shoppers and reduce new home demand. Housing starts will decline to 35,800 units in 2008 and 31,500 in 2009 from 39,195 units in 2007.

Alberta is expected to face a drop in net migrants between now and the end of the year due in part to the increased house prices in Alberta and improved labour markets in other provinces. Following exceptional 30.7 per cent and 24.8 per cent price gains in 2006 and 2007, growth in the average MLS price is expected to slow to 1.1 per cent in 2008.

Since 2007, Saskatchewan has experienced a rebound in economic growth, contributing to strong housing demand within the province. Total housing starts reached 6,007 units in 2007, the highest level in 24 years.

Escalating costs will stabilize housing starts at 6,700 units this year and 5,750 units in 2009. The average MLS price in Saskatchewan rose by 32 per cent during 2007 and is expected to climb by 29 per cent in 2008 and 6.7 per cent in 2009.

Looking further east, Manitoba’s solid economic performance and right labour market conditions have boosted net migration to levels not seen since 1982 and have contributed to healthy levels of new home construction.

In Ontario, economic uncertainty, rising new housing prices and a greater selection of homes available in the resale market will result in fewer new home sales in 2008 and a dip in new home starts in 2009.

- Warren Korbin works in partnership with his wife, Patricia, as a Realtor at Royal LePage’s Parksville office (korbins@shaw.ca)

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:11:54 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=521 Ever since Einstein advanced his general theory of relativity, we have been living with the concept of curved space-time.

Eminent physicists tell us that a moving body affects the curvature of space and time – and that the modified curvature of space-time in turn alters the way that the body moves. Indeed, a clock located at the surface of the earth will run ever-so-slightly slower than a clock in a satellite far above the earth.

It is all beyond most of us, but – fortunately – intelligent people like Stephen Hawking understand it.

The Income Tax Act also has an inherent concept of curved time – or, at least, a concept of a space-time continuum that can throw a curve at the plans of many taxpayers.

For example, consider a Canadian controlled private corporation (a “CCPC”, in scientific jargon). In order to be a CCPC, a corporation must not be controlled by any combination of publicly-traded corporations and non-residents (such as a US resident or, I suppose, one of Buckaroo Banzai’s space aliens from the Ninth Dimension).

Suppose I am a Canadian resident and that I have been the sole owner of shares of a CCPC (let’s call it “Canco”) for at least two years. Suppose that Canco uses substantially all its assets in a Canadian active business.

In this case, I would normally be able to claim the $750,000 capital gains exemption on a sale of the Canco shares. However, Canco has to continue to qualify as a CCPC up to the time of sale.

This is where curved time comes in. If I sell my Canco shares to a non-resident at 2 PM on the closing date, the sale of my shares will occur at 2 PM. The closing triggers a curved time provision, however, and the non-resident is deemed to have acquired control of Canco at the start of the day in question.

Amazingly, the curved time provision applies only to the acquisition of control, which is considered to occur no matter who owns the shares. The curved time rule does not apply to the actual purchase of the shares, which still occurs at 2 PM. Consequently, at the time of (and indeed by virtue of) the 2 PM purchase, Canco is deemed to have been controlled by a non-resident since 12:01 AM and no longer qualifies as a CCPC.

So I would not be able to claim my capital gains exemption on the sale proceeds.
Fortunately, there is a way around this curved-time quandary – as long as one knows enough to sprinkle the required interstellar dust. Canco can elect out of the curved time provisions.

Regrettably, this requires action by Canco (the seller of the shares cannot file the election). After the 2 PM sale, the purchaser of the shares –not the seller -- will in fact control Canco. This means that the seller has to deal with the election well before the share sale and has to do this by inserting an appropriate provision in the share purchase agreement.

If the share purchase agreement does not require that Canco elect out of the curved time provisions, the seller of the shares will have no way to force that result.

Remember curved time if you are ever selling shares of a CCPC to a publicly-traded corporation or to a non-resident. Otherwise, you might end up falling into a tax black hole.

- Blair Dwyer is with Dwyer Tax Lawyers in Victoria. www.dwyertaxlaw.com

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 10:10:22 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=520 Last year, our Premier stood with California Governator Arnold Schwarzenegger and proclaimed his intention to save the Earth by lowering greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in B.C. Besides slamming residents with a carbon tax, the premier planned to import California-style auto emission standards to achieve his GHG reduction goal.
But it turned out that even California wasn’t able to impose California standards on itself. California needed special permission from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Well, the EPA didn’t give California permission, and California -- in typical U.S. style -- is now suing the EPA.

What is our government doing? Joining California in its lawsuit to force the EPA to let it impose its auto emission standards. The unintended consequences of this move could be truly perverse.

If the B.C. government is successful in help California get its way -- after handing who-knows-how-many tax dollars to U.S.-based lawyers for a case that could drag on for years -- evidence from other jurisdictions with emission reduction rules indicate that emissions in B.C. would continue to rise.

Once again, we can draw from experience in Europe to see the perverse outcomes of government policies.

New vehicle CO2 emissions in the UK have fallen from over 190 grams per kilometer in 1995 to 170 grams per kilometer in 2005. Nevertheless, per capita CO2 emissions from transportation sources continued to rise in the UK, by 8.2% between 1995 and 2005.

Why? Because over 33% of vehicles on UK roads are over 10 years old. Creating high new vehicle standards might make politicians look good, but if few people can afford to buy new vehicles, they won’t reduce emissions.

According to DesRosiers Auto Consultants, accords like Kyoto “contribute to an ever-increasing affordability challenge for consumers. It will have the effect of delaying the fleet turnover and retarding the penetration of new vehicles having the most fuel- efficient technology.”

Cooling global temperatures so far this century and steadily increasing vehicle emissions in countries with tougher emission standards show the government is not looking at the facts. Before the government rushes into expensive policy propositions, it needs to justify its actions.

- Maureen Bader is B.C. Director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:55:11 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=519 Mark MacDonald - Editor/Publisher

Election time is in the air. November 15, it’s municipal and civic decision time, as communities choose their leadership for the next three years. Next spring, British Columbians head to the polls to elect a new provincial government. Now we hear a federal election is imminent, most likely in mid October.

The question is: Why? Barring a miracle, Canada will be saddled with another minority government, as the federal Conservatives and Liberals are virtually neck and neck in the polls. They have been at a standstill for months on end, no matter what the scandal, or rumor thereof.

On the civic level, elections hold the key for the next three years in each community. Will the city elect a pro-business, free enterprise council that favors development? Or will voters choose a slate of councillors that are content to keep things just as they are, and put the skids on growth. While that latter line of reasoning may seem appealing to some of the electorate, it remains that Vancouver Island has been, and is being discovered as a destination. Not just for retirement, but for young up and comers who value lifestyle and quality of life when it comes to choosing a place to live.

Anti-development councils may make one community less appealing for developers, but that may just mean that investors take their cash down the road in search of other opportunities. That already happens.

Elections should, however, bring a sense of soberness to the business community, as its members have invested where they live on several different levels. Business owners, managers and their employees are recognized for the contributions they regularly make to various organizations and causes in cash and in-kind. But many have invested in their businesses and properties, which are somewhat subject to the whims of council and any number of fees, taxes, and development cost charges - which can change depending on who is sitting in the council seats.

Business people are busy, as the economy is still strong. But they also need to find time to either get involved on the civic level by stepping up to the plate and running for office, or work behind the scenes to get those elected who understand business and can cultivate an environment where business is welcome. That’s investing in the future.

Provincially, the about face in the polls has to be a cause for concern for the BC Liberals and their supporters. Earlier this year, Gordon Campbell’s party enjoyed a double digit lead. In less than six months that has evaporated, and as the last poll suggests, the NDP holds a three per cent lead over the free enterprisers.

There’s still some time to reverse the trend before B.C. heads to the polls next spring. But in order to do that, the BC Liberals need to take a good, hard look at what caused the startling turnaround. The two issues that seem to have given the NDP ammunition are the massive pay hikes to public service management, and the implementation of the Carbon Tax.

The Carbon Tax has enraged British Columbians, in a manner perhaps not seen since Brian Mulroney jammed the hated GST through by stacking the Senate. The provincial government continues to pour gasoline on the fire by spending tax dollars on brainwashing ads to back up their “fight against global warming”, despite the fact many scientists disagree with the premise.

What if Carol James promises that an NDP government would eliminate the Carbon Tax the day after the next election? What would happen then? It worked for Jean Chretien, didn’t it? Imagine B.C. with the NDP in power again. It could happen.

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:47:40 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=518 Last summer the bears thought a global recession was inevitable. The bulls thought growth would be mildly slower because global markets had de-coupled from US troubles. The bears won that argument.

This summer the themes are weaker global growth, high oil and commodity prices, mounting inflation and weathering a recession.

Here’s what the more prudent market voices are saying.

Gwyn Morgan, former EnCana CEO, said “rising oil prices increase the cost of virtually everything, unleashing a wave of inflation that will wash away disposable income.” He’s right. If you eat or drive, you see inflation.

Jim Buckee, former Talisman Energy CEO, said that ‘demand destruction (for oil) would be at $1.60 /litre’. He was right. Oil prices have dropped.

The International Monetary Fund expects world growth under 3% through 2009. (It was 5% from 2003-2007). They say that’s a recession (for everyone except energy and agri-food exporters). Developed countries growth is 1.6% (3.8% is average). Developing nation’s industrial activity (which is critical to commodity prices) is slower. US growth is almost zero.

Still high prices and slower growth reduce demand - Economics 101. Canada sells a lot of oil. Ergo, in July, our energy index was down 14% and oil is approaching $100 from $140. (Yet I still pay $1.40/litre).

Finally, McLean Budden’s Robert Spector says markets like economic growth (because it translates into corporate earnings) and stable inflation. We have neither.
So macro themes are pointing more toward prolonged and painful than short and sharp. There are more US adjustable rate mortgages to reset at higher rates in 2008. (The source of much of the US troubles in the first place). Also, as US home prices continue to fall, many home loans are now greater than the value of the house. (14 million mortgages. Worth $3 trillion). Expect problems if these borrowers walk-away. So there is more to come before the worst is over.

Investors will see higher costs for purchases (food, gas) and lower values for what they own (house, investments).

This all sounds recession-like.

On the positive side, oil and commodities prices are weakening. US exports are strong and growing. And, most important, investors are starting to get a sense of valuation with the knowledge of the size of the problem(s).

Looking forward, the bulls say buy now cheaper stocks. The bears, however, say hoard gold (and cache canned goods).

The winning strategy is to go back to school and practice the lessons from the investment masters.

Charlie Ellis says an investment policy helps long term investors avoid distractions from headlines and short term market volatility. Peter Bernstein says buy conservative dividend paying investments. GMO’s Jeremy Grantham says don’t be afraid to hold cash while waiting for value to become apparent. PIMCo’s Bill Gross says non-correlated foreign assets in overseas markets are still a source of growth. The late Sir John Templeton preached global diversification. These lessons position an investor for all environments rather than bet on a single up or down outcome.

- Doug Cronk CFA, CFP is a Portfolio and Asset Allocation Analyst. doug@objectiveadvice.ca

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:25:07 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=517 Despite rising gas prices, traffic is increasing.

Web site traffic, that is. But while savvy businesses will benefit, others will flounder and fade as the online space gets more crammed and competitive.

How can you increase the number of qualified visitors—those most likely to want your products and services—to your Web site? Consider this: about 70% of us click on the first few natural listings on the first search results page. We generally ignore the rest.

This is the focus of Search Engine Optimization (SEO): to pump up the volume and quality of Web site traffic coming from search engines, via ‘natural’ (or ‘organic’) search results for targeted keywords. (I’m not talking about paid ads that usually appear topmost and to the right. When done right, these can generate awesome returns—and are downright complementary to SEO—and warrant their own, future column.)

So… exactly how does one get top ranking in Google, Yahoo! and MSN? Ah, Grasshopper…answer this and the mighty engines will prostrate themselves  before you—for a millisecond, anyway, before they tweak their secret algorithms that determine site ranking. Not even James Bond can filch those secrets.

This much we know: SEO involves doing a raft of things well, rather than one thing perfectly. Three components figure in the ranking of returned results, if they appear at all: site content, architecture, and link popularity. So it’s not just what and how you say and present it, but also the quantity and quality of sites and pages that link to yours. 

Google and the other players are neck deep in a high stakes competition to understand our brains’ info-seeking behaviours. In fact, owing to the massive inflow of data, Internet search is the largest “living” laboratory that’s ever existed for researching language and cognition.

While in the past, sneaky and illegitimate black hat methods won sites prominent ranking, they don’t get you very far nowadays. In fact, deviousness can get you blacklisted.

Despite the engines’ differences, most consider relevancy and quality. They hunt out, for example, pertinent keywords in important areas (e.g. the URL, title, metadata, heading tags, and body content). These describe your site and page to them and to your visitors both.

Choosing relevant keywords is crucial to being indexed and found. A SEMPO (Search Engine Marketing Professional Organization) poll asked 882 search pros which SEO techniques upped visitor volume the highest. Of the ten most popular cited, six included keyword use and choice.

Try out a keyword generating tool for free: keyworddiscovery.com, WordTracker.com and Google’s AdWords Keyword Tool—just a few of the many available.

But there are many other factors also affecting ranking. Every page is ranked individually, so one must be careful to avoid cannibalizing keywords or mistakenly hiding your SEO efforts behind logins impenetrable to the engines. Popularity counts, too. Search engines measure not just who is linking to a site or page, but what they’re saying about it. Others’ blogs can enhance your rankings (especially if the blogger is “an authority”) and your own blogs can help your site’s SEO.

 Site age also makes a difference. Never expect immediate results from any SEO tweak—they typically take one to three months to impact on traffic, and even longer in more competitive industries.

Which brings up the topic of measuring your SEO efforts. Google Analytics (totally free) tracks the ways you attract traffic: through natural Web search, inbound links, paid campaigns and programmes. Know what you’re seeking and you’ll benefit greatly from feedback on users’ actions from first click to conversion/sale.

Want better ranking but not keen on tackling SEO yourself? Hire a specialist with the skills to assess your needs, help articulate your online goals, benchmark your pre-SEO performance, generate a content plan, optimization guides and/or content, and track the things you need to know: keyword ranking, brand engagement/awareness, conversion rates and ROI.

To conclude my simplistic primer on this complex subject, I offer these words from Net researcher MarketingSherpa: “SEO is a proven tactic that has performed year in and year out for more than decade now. However, it’s not easy, requiring some technical savvy to do well and enough ongoing change in the ground rules to be a bit frustrating to keep track of.”

- Seth Klapman is a marketing and research writer with Kelowna-based Acro Media, at www.acromediainc.com

]]> Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:18:35 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=516 • Destiny River Adventures, on 1630 Island Highway, is now celebrating its 10th anniversary serving customers.

• Kevin Greif has achieved the June titles of Top Salesman and Top New Car Salesman at Bill Howich Chrysler RV & Marine, on 2777 North Island Highway.

• John Rigsby, Controller and Partner with Alm-Wood Contracting in Campbell River, is the new Chair of the B.C. Chamber of Commerce. Kim Volkey, Human Resources Manager of Pioneer Hardware Ltd., is the District 1 Director.

• The Sportsplex and Storey Creek Golf Club locations each hosted part of the Rod Brind’Amour Cystic Fibrosis Golf Classic & Auction, which successfully raised $78,000. This is the 13th consecutive year that the fundraiser has taken place.

• A garden competition put on by The Comox Valley Regional District, the City of Campbell River Communities in Bloom Committee and the Campbell River Garden Club, saw a number of local winners. For the category of Best Composting, Dave and Linda Christian took top prize; Heidi Murton won for Best Overall, Best Business Property went to Dolphin’s Resort, Noel Smith was presented with the title of Best Residential Property, Sinott and Co. achieved Best Business Frontage, Ironwood Place received Best Residential Complex, and Elizabeth Locke took honours with Best Residential Patio/Balcony.

• The Second Hand Store Nifty Thrifty has changed locations to a spot near Home Hardware, on Greenwood and 12th.

• Berlyann has achieved the title of “Outstanding Restaurant Manager of the Year”, and was recently recognized by the national McDonald’s Restaurants of Canada.

• Bob Duncan has vacated his position as the cruise ship marketing manager for the Campbell River Indian Band.

]]> Wed, 13 Aug 2008 10:13:29 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=515 • Ucluelet’s Black Rock Oceanfront Resort from Boutique Hotels & Resorts of British Columbia, now welcomes Trish Brown as their new sales manager.

• Tourism Ucluelet and Tourism Tofino are planning to team up for the 2009 Vancouver Island Vacation Guide, as part of a regional marketing campaign.

• Curtis Cook has joined the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust, as the current executive director taking over from David Fraser.

• Samantha Fyleris is pleased to note that the Ancient Cedars Spa at the Wickaninnish Inn has been voted the #1 Hotel Spa in Canada, US and the World by the Travel + Leisure Magazine Readers’ Poll  for 2008. The Inn was voted the #5 Hotel in the Continental U.S. and Canada, making it the top-ranked hotel in Canada.

]]> Wed, 13 Aug 2008 10:12:52 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=514 • Plutonic Power Corporation CEO, Donald McInnes, has been named as an Entrepreneur of the Year awards finalist.

• Mr. Mike’s Steakhouse Powell River has closed its doors on July 31, after 35 years serving customers.

• Lainey Wilkins has recently opened her online store Fabric and Wood Ideas/Galena Bay Novelty Fabrics, to the Powell River area at www.fabricandwoodideas.com.

• Mara Decker is welcomed onto the team at Peak Publishing Ltd.

• Milton G. Johnson has retired his position at Tesquiot Contracting Ltd. after 20 years with the business.

• The BC Hockey League has awarded Doug McCormick, the president of Powell River Kings hockey, as their Executive of the Year.

• Dr. Piotr Pater has joined the practice of Dr. Makarewicz, to offer his general surgery services at the General Surgery Clinic, on Harvie Avenue.

• Adam Zroback has joined the professional team at RE/MAX Powell River, located at 4545 Marine Avenue.

]]> Wed, 13 Aug 2008 10:12:03 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=513 • Sneakers Computers, on 685 B Cliffe Avenue, has opened again after being revamped and redone.

• The Courtenay Vacuum Superstore is now open for business, at 14 - 2401 Cliffe Avenue.

• Locals is a new restaurant, owned by renowned Chef Ronald and Tricia St. Pierre, and located at 364 8th Street.

• Glenice Neal is welcomed to the team at Rice Toyota Courtenay, at 445 Crown Isle Boulevard.

• The Crown Isle Resort in Courtenay has celebrated its 10th year being open to customers.

• John Harnden has achieved the status of Salesman of the Month for June, at Brian McLean Chevrolet, on 2145 Cliffe Avenue.

]]> Wed, 13 Aug 2008 10:11:13 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=512 • Warehouse One The Jean Store recently celebrated their grand opening for the location on 3555 Johnston Road.

• Lukh Saran now serves clients as a realtor with Coldwell Banker Alberni Valley, located at 5017 Argyle Street.

• Lori LaVallee-Philion has taken over from Sharon Powell as the branch manager for Bank of Montreal on Third Avenue.

• Ernie and Janet West have moved their dental clinic, Ernie West’s Denture Centre, to a new home on 4681 Elizabeth Street.

• Deja-Vu Books Furniture & Collectibles held their grand opening for the public early in July, and serves clients from their location at 3679 - 3rd Avenue.

• Inspire Hair Salon and Day Spa has re-opened to the public, after moving to their new space at #103 - 4917 Pemberton Road.

• Redford New & Used Buy Sell Trade has also re-opened their facility to customers, at 4023 Redford Street.

• Boutique Belles Amies, on 5344 Argyle Street, has celebrated another anniversary of their business.

• Sears Canada has announced that the Dealer Store in Port Alberni has relocated to 4644 Adelaide Street. The store will continue to offer a merchandise assortment which includes mattresses, major appliances, lawn and garden items, fitness and seasonal products, electronics, and Sears full-line national brands.

]]> Wed, 13 Aug 2008 10:10:38 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=511 • Peter Doukakis has resigned as executive director, and as of August 31st will leave his position at the Parksville & District Chamber of Commerce.

• Carrie Powell-Davidson is the editor for Qualicum Beach Time, the  monthly publication that was formerly known as Qualicum Time..

• The Sea Edge Motel is now in its 40th year under the ownership of the Schug family.

• Qualicum Beach citizen Jamie Gauthier passed the Certified Financial Planner Examination with flying colours, making the President’s List for the Financial Planners Standards Council.

• Island Originals magnetic jewelry is open for business in their new address at 177 West 2nd Avenue.

]]> Wed, 13 Aug 2008 10:09:58 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=510 •  The Nanaimo Quay Market has recently opened in the Departure Bay Ferry Terminal, featuring eateries and new shops to try out.

• Geoffrey Howes of Toseki Entertainment is now the chair of Tourism Vancouver, replacing former chair Smith Munro.

• A&B Sound in Nanaimo has closed its location due to financial trouble, effective July 23.

• Paradise Island Foods has recently acquired new environmentally friendly trucks for transportation of their products.

• Stu Phillips has been named as June’s Top Salesperson for Wheaton GM, on 2375 Hayes Road.

• Shawn Atleo was chosen as the chancellor for Vancouver Island University.

• Bertrand Seatter was presented with the President’s Award on behalf of the Canadian Western Bank, located on #101 - 6475 Metral Drive.

• Mid-Island Co-op’s gas station at the corner of Bowen and Labieux Roads is replacing its underground tanks, so it will be awhile before customers can fill up their vehicles there. The convenience store remains open during the construction period, however.

• Hub City Paving is getting ready to move into their new location later this summer, notes General Manager Don Hubbard.

• Janet Dyck has joined Melodi Wood’s team at StaffQuest. Janet formerly worked for Black Press.

• New looks are on their way: The Cambie Hotel is undergoing renovations downtown, across from the Mid Island Co-op Gas Bar. Also, the Subway restaurant at Applecross Crossing is getting a makeover.

• Head coach and General Manager Bill Bestwick is pleased to note that Liza Taylor is now the Director of Community and Corporate Affairs for the Nanaimo Clippers junior hockey club. Liza brings a wealth of knowledge in sales, marketing and promotions to the position.

• Modern Windows welcomes Ted Marriott as the Manager of the new Modern Nanaimo location. Current local projects for the Powell River based window manufacturing and installations company include Pleasant Ridge Estates, Regency Vista, Nanaimo Boys & Girls Club and numerous home renovation projects.

• George Hanson of the Downtown Nanaimo Partnership notes that internal demolition has begun on the Fiesta building, which is making way for the Studio NA project. He also points out that ground has been broken in Nob Hill for the 66 unit Oak Tree Manor seniors supported living complex. The Zorkin Group has also broken ground on Selby Street for another 21 rental units.

• Ehren Madill of E. Madill Office Company is pleased to note that their firm is now an accredited Carbon Neutral Supplier, and in fact is the first such office supply company in Canada. Ehren says the company plans to lower their carbon footprint by focusing on improving energy efficiency, recycling and establishing green procurement policies.

]]> Wed, 13 Aug 2008 10:09:21 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=509 • Sandra Sarsfield is welcomed into the firm of Robson, O’Connor Barristers, Solicitors & Notaries Public, located at 22 High Street in Ladysmith.

• The Soulfire Dance Studio, directed and owned by Jennifer MacPherson, will soon be open to accept students.

]]> Wed, 13 Aug 2008 10:08:26 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=508
• The Cowichan Valley Meat Market now celebrates its fifth year in business for the community.

• Island Savings has agreed to sponsor Cowichan Valley Regional District’s largest recreation centre for the public; the facility will take the name of Island Savings Centre.

• Pete Keber has been appointed District 2 Director of the B.C. Chamber of Commerce. He is an Investment Advisor with Planning Tomorrows in Cobble Hill.

• RE/MAX of Duncan has named Shannon Roome, Don McClintock, and Janice McLean as their top salespeople for the June month.

• Lisa Solanto has joined the Applied Somatics Clinic, at 303-80 Station Street, and will continue to offer her services as a registered massage therapist.

• Steve Aydon has earned the title of Salesman of the Month for the month of June, at the Peter Baljet GM dealership on 6300 Trans Canada Highway.

• Peter Jost is the Top Salesman for the month of June at BowMel Chrysler, on 461 Trans Canada Highway.

•There have been some big changes at Steeples Restaurant in Shawnigan Lake. Steeples closed and re-opened as the new Steeples Bar & Grill, and a new head Chef: Sascha Barby.

]]> Wed, 13 Aug 2008 10:07:59 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=507
• President and Chief Executive Officer, Hakan Lindskog announced that the four cofounders of Neverblue Media: Todd Dunlop (former President and Chief Executive Officer), Jordan Visco (former Vice President of Affiliate Marketing), Dave Arnsdorf (former Vice President of Finance) and Greg Bate (former Director of Technology), have transitioned to an active role on Neverblue’s Board of Advisors. Mark How has been named Vice President of Sales and Business Development.

• Galiano Island’s Gulf Island Film and Television School, directed by George Harris, has seen more than 100% increase in business within the last few years.

• Roger Soane has left his position as the general manager of the Fairmont Empress hotel, in order to work as the general manager of the Fairmont Chateau Whistler Resort.

• Sidney’s Pet Centre & Aquatics will move to take the former Monk Office location in 9769 Fifth Street.

• Metro Lexus Toyota has a new service manager as Brian Carlson takes over from former employee Vern Benn.

• William R. Brown, with Brown Bros. Agencies Limited, has been chosen as the Vice Chair for the Real Estate Council of British Columbia, while Judi A. Whyte, with Prudential Sussex Realty, has been elected as the chair for the organization.

• The Minerva Foundation for BC Women has elected Julia Kim, of Phillips, Hager & North Investment Management Ltd., as their new chairperson.

• The design team of Griffin Design Kitchens Ltd., owned by Bart and Laura Griffin, is now joined by Carole Hutchinson.

• Alison Partridge has chosen to leave her position as the director of public relations and marketing for the Butchart Gardens.

• Directis Consulting Group Ltd. has moved to Victoria from Vancouver this spring. Led by principal consultant Susan Low (nee Giles, a Victoria native), this consulting firm offers strategic planning and procedures improvement services for small businesses. The company is at 550-2950 Douglas Street, in the Douglas Professional Centre. www.directis.ca

• Sandy DiMinno, Vice President, announces that HelmsBriscoe, an independent site selection and RFP service provider for Corporate, Associate and Government clients planning off-site meetings and conferences has expanded their Canadian market strength with the opening of a new office in Victoria, at 2040 Kings Road.

• Newly appointed Maria Chen, Director of Sales at Poets Cove Resort & Spa on Pender Island, has over 20 years of sales experience cinched under her hotel belt.  She spent the last four years as senior sales manager at the Georgian Court Hotel, and has held sales positions at the Hilton Vancouver Metrotown Hotel, and Executive Hotels & Resorts.  Chen’s hotel career began with the Intercontinental Hotels Group.

• Streetlight Intelligence Inc. CEO Vince Krynski is pleased to note that Chartered Acccountant Mark Alenius has joined the company as Chief Financial Officer. He replaces Bradley Williams. Dale Gann has joined the company’s board of directors. Dale is vice chair of the Vancouver Island Advanced Technology Cenrtre (VIATeC).

]]> Wed, 13 Aug 2008 10:06:24 -0700 http://www.businessvi.ca/pages/archives.php?id=506 This discussion will center on businesses that are entering or have recently entered British Columbia, and are available for purchase by persons wanting to go into business on their own.

Some examples of these sorts of businesses are franchises, licenses, dealerships, or joint ventures, to name a few. It is critical that the potential purchaser investigate the quality of the opportunity thoroughly. Many times the opportunity may be viable, but in some circumstances the business will not have done the requisite due diligence before entering into British Columbia to determine whether or not the concept will succeed.

Many questions have to be asked by the potential purchaser, including whether or not a feasibility study or some demographic research has been conducted into the viability of the concept or product in this area. The potential purchaser should try to determine whether the product has been government certified in Canada, British Columbia, the municipality, or perhaps by the Capital Regional District.

Another question to ask is whether or not there is a registered trade-mark, and what intellectual property is actually owned or controlled exclusively by the entering business concept.

The advertising materials should be thoroughly reviewed, including the website, the flyers, and television or radio advertising done in another jurisdiction or in this jurisdiction, to determine whether or not advertising materials had been sufficiently adapted for the Canadian, and more particularly, the British Columbia, marketplace.

The potential purchaser must determine whether there is a local presence for the entering business such as an actual business office, a regional manager, and support staff, should the purchaser encounter problems.

 What is the local knowledge of the entering business? Does the business have any experience operating here, and what has its operating history and track record been in other jurisdictions?

Are there other franchisees or business owners that the potential purchaser can discuss the conc