Business Examiner Victoria - September 2015 by Business Examiner Media Group

SEPTEMBER 2015

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SAANICH PENINSULA

The three communities of the Saanich Peninsula have perfected the harmony between industrial development and a vibrant agricultural sector

National in Scope, Local in Focus

Victoria

WWW.BUSINESSEXAMINER.CA

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VICTORIA

H & R Exterior Finish has evolved and embraced change in the siding industry throughout its 20 years in business

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INDEX

News Update 2 West Shore 4 Esquimalt 4 Sooke 5 Greater Victoria 6 Technology 18 Green 18 Who is Suing Whom 33 Movers and Shakers 36 Opinion 38 Law 39 Contact us: 1-866-758-2684

OUR 30TH YEAR

Malahat First Nation / Steelhead LNG Sign Initial Agreement

Vancouver based company seeking to establish floating LNG processing facility on industrial lands formerly known as Bamberton BY DAVID HOLMES

ILL BAY – To the sounds of prayer songs, and with the blessing of the First Nation elders, the Malahat First Nation in Mill Bay and Vancouver-based Steelhead LNG Corporation signed a Mutual Benefits Agreement (MBA) August 20. The signing is the first step toward the development of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility that eventually could be sited on the foreshore of Malahat First Nation land – a parcel previously known as Bamberton. “Today we are pleased to announce the successful completion of a Mutual Benefits Agreement, and a long term lease supporting the development of the Malahat LNG,” explained Lawrence Lewis, the Malahat First Nation’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) during the ceremony. “Our conversation with Steelhead started more than 13 months ago and at the end of the day we’re

excited to be able to move forward focusing on the opportunities to continue growth and to sustain wealth in a responsible way. Meaningful relationships mean taking the time to build those relationships. We feel that our early and direct involvement will make all the difference in ensuring that working with Steelhead as a partner will indeed have the greatest and most beneficial impact on the local economy, the protection of the environment and will certainly benefit our members.” The facility proposed by Steelhead will be sited on a floating barge and is expected to have a capacity of up to 6 million tonnes per annum (mtpa). The overall complex would include a floating liquefaction facility moored to the shoreline and some minor land-based support infrastructure. The project’s envisioned economic impact would include up to 30 years of revenue generation for local, provincial and federal governments during

Steelhead LNG has released a stylized representation of what the foreshore of the Malahat Nation will look like once the plant is in operation construction, operation and decommissioning, along with the creation of up to 200 long-term positions once the facility is operational.

In a media release from Steelhead, the company’s CEO Nigel Kuzemko said, “As a BC-based SEE MALAHAT FIRST NATION | PAGE 7

Houle Electric At Forefront Of Industry For More Than 70 Years From its humble origins in Port Alberni, Houle Electric has grown to have more than 1,400 employees throughout the province BY DAVID HOLMES

Canadian Publications Mail Acct.: 40069240

Unity B the produ

#220 - 645 Fort Street, Victoria

ICTORIA – Think about your home or your office, and think about how it has changed over the past 10 or 20

years. Your computer is increasingly important, your appliances are smarter and more capable, while your electronic devices seamlessly interconnect to bring a world to your life that in only a few scant years had

not been available before. Making that world function, making your home, office, business or institution accessible and worry-free is at the heart of everything Houle Electric does.

“Did you realize that Houle Electric has just passed its 70th year in operation,” asked Ross McLean, one of the company’s owners, and SEE HOULE ELECTRIC | PAGE 5

Our job is to keep an eye on our customers business equipment needs. Vancouver Island’s largest independent copier and MFP dealer. Reliability, serviceability, affordability. We are Unity Business.

250.384.7243 www.unitybusiness.ca

NEWS UPDATE

COWICHAN VALLEY Cowichan Valley’s Historic Places Recognized

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SEPTEMBER 2015

private residence, was nominated by its owner and placed on the Register for its architectural and historic values. An old-growth tree protected under Conservation Covenant, the Shearing Tree has been recognized for its aesthetic and cultural qualities. The Kingzett Lake Lime K iln and Ceramic Wel l, forma l ly protected by Heritage Designation Bylaw in 1977, have also been added to the Com mu n ity Heritage Register.

VICTORIA The Maritime Museum of BC Announces Offer of Financial Support The Maritime Museum of BC (MMBC) is excited to announce a conditional offer of financial support by The TK Foundation to assist with fitting out the lower level of the CPR Steamship Terminal Building for use as a new location for the Museum. The $500,000 indication is conditional on, among other things, the MMBC’s successful negotiation of a long-term lease of the space, located on Victoria’s Inner Harbour. The TK Foundation is a private independent foundation based in the Bahamas which supports maritime educational and youth development initiatives around the globe. The MMBC Society and Board are immensely appreciative of this initiative at this crucial time in the Museum’s history. The Museum intends to submit an Expression of Interest for a long term lease of the lower level of the Steamship Building space by the August 24 deadline. T h i s suppor t i s i m men sely significant in helping the MMBC to secure a long-term home, and in assisting us to fulfil our mandate to tell BC’s maritime story, in an iconic new location. If a lease can be successfully negotiated, this generous private financial contribution will be used as the basis for raising matching funds from the Federal Government and from a local fundraising campaign. As The TK Foundation’s suppor t is conti ngent upon the successful negotiation of a longterm lease of the CPR Steamship space, we encourage the Provincial Government to continue to partner with the MMBC and the TK Foundation in a public-private partnership to find a mutually agreeable permanent home consistent with the Province’s historic obligations to the museum.

After A Successful First Season, The Webisodes Are Back & Casting Is Now Open

Are you a young entrepreneur in need of money to fuel your start-up, idea or small business? Then apply online for a chance to pitch on the next installment of Next Gen Den, presented by Wolf Blass Wines. Next Gen Den is Dragons’ Den for an online world, featuring the next generation of Dragons. Shorter and made for mobile, these webisodes are a launchi ng pad for you ng entrepreneurs, pitching start-ups and early-stage businesses to investors with the knowledge and cash to take those companies to the next level. But remember - the rules of the Den remain the same – pitchers must get all the money they ask for, or they walk away with nothing. To be eligible, entrepreneurs must be 40 years old or younger. Ca s t i n g i s now op en w it h filming set to take place in Toronto in late September. D ra gon s’ Den i s t he h ig hest-rated Canadian unscripted program on during the regular television season, with an average audience of more than one m i l l ion Ca nad ia ns each week. In addition to its success on-air, Dragons’ Den is also a hit online, boasting an active and engaged online community and averaging more than 650,000 page views per month. Full episodes and exclusive behind-the-scenes content can be viewed at cbc.ca/dragonsden.

LANGFORD Facility to house all Rugby Canada teams John Duncan, Member of Parliament for Vancouver Island North was joined by Stewart Young, Mayor of Langford, and Graham Brown, Chief Executive Officer, Rugby Canada to announce that the Canadian Rugby Centre of Excellence – H igh Performa nce T ra i n i ng Centre Project has been selected for priority funding consideration under the Building Canada Fund – Major Infrastructure Component. T he training centre will be ba sed i n t he Va ncouver I sland community of Langford, which is also the home of Rugby Canada. The proposed 19,000 square foot, two-storey facility will have the capacity to have all of Rugby Canada’s tea ms tra i n i n one location. The building will be used by h ig h-p er for m a nce a m ateu r athletes as well as the general public. The training centre will include a 7,000 square foot gymnasiu m, cha nge rooms w ith shower and bathroom facilities; recovery and stretching rooms, including one with hydro-therapy facilities; a kitchen/dining and lounge area; meeting, office and storage space; six

NEWS UPDATE

SEPTEMBER 2015

one-bedroom studio units; a therapy clinic, a reception area and the Canada Rugby Hall of Fame. Government of Canada will prov ide up to $3 m i l l ion towa rds the project u nder the Building Canada Fund – Major Infrastructure Component. This funding is conditional on the project meeting applicable federal eligibility requirements with respect to the Building Canada Fund and the signing of a contribution agreement. The City of Langford will be responsible for $2.5 m illion and Rugby Canada has committed $899,956 towards the project. Total project cost: $7,840,000.

VICTORIA New Craft Beer Map Showcases BC’s Beer Capital Hitting the streets this week is Victoria’s newest guide to local beer, the Craft Beer Map. Created in partnership by the Downtown Victoria Business Association, local author Joe Wiebe, and Tourism Victoria, the Craft Beer Map directs beer lovers to taphouses, breweries and tours. “I am very excited to see the Craft Beer Map in print,” says Joe Wiebe, author of Craft Beer

Revolution: The Insider’s Guide to B.C. B re we r ie s a nd a cofounder of Victoria Beer Week who spearheaded the project. “W hen I took the idea to the DVBA and Tourism Victoria, they ju mped on boa rd rig ht away, recognizing the benefits immediately.” The Craft Beer Map is a comprehensive map of taphouses in downtown Victoria plus local and regional breweries, cideries and even a meadery. The regional coverage extends to Salt Spring Island in the north and Duncan to the west. “With more than 15 member craft breweries and brewpubs, Tourism Victoria is pleased to support this growing sector,” says Paul Nursey, P resident & CEO of Tou rism Victoria. “O u r o rg a n i z a t io n re c e n tly added a Cra ft Beer, Cider & Spirits section on our website, which receives 1.2 million unique visitors per year. These breweries and brewpubs offer that local experience customers crave when v isit i ng ou r destination.” For taphouse and craft beer b u s i n e s s ow n ers, t h i s m ap poi nts beer lovers to where t hey ca n con nect w it h Victoria’s home grown beers. With 12 breweries locally and another six in the region, taphouses in Victoria can showcase the very best of Southern Vancouver Island beers.

“With so many cultural tourists visiting The Drake Eatery, t he Cra f t B eer M ap h a s i nstantly become a valuable tool to promote the multiple locations (most within easy walking distance of The Drake) that showcase Victoria’s craft beer scene.” Downtown Victoria celebrates local craft beer with eight tap houses that share our west coast culture through locally crafted beers. “Downtown Victoria is home to eight tap houses which offer

visitors and residents access to our locally crafted beer,” says Suzanne Bradbury, Cha i r of the Downtown Victoria Business Association. “This map shows people where they can get a taste of Victoria’s craft beer scene.” The history of brewing here goes back to 1859, when Victoria’s first brewery, Victoria Brew i ng opened i n itia l ly at Swan Lake and later moved their operation to Government and Discovery. Victoria is also home to Canada’ first contemporary

3 brewpub, Spinnakers, which has led the craft beer revolution since 1984. Now, as B.C.’s “craft beer capital” with popular annual events such as the Great Canadian Beer Festival, which takes places each September, and Victoria Beer Week, which will return for its third year next March 5-13, 2016. The Craft Beer Map is available at the DV BA’s office i n Centennial Square, Tourism Victoria’s Visitor Centre and other locations throughout the region.

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WEST SHORE JULIE LAWLOR

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government to support programs in areas such as social services, education and health care government to support programs in areas such as social services, education and health care. Since View Royal Casino opened in 2001 (up to 2013-14 financial year), over $51 million has been distributed to Esquimalt, Sooke and West Shore municipalities. The Casino’s 180+ employees also contribute to the Great Canadian Casinos’ proud program, which encourages staff to lend their time to meaningful volunteer projects, plus providing cash donations to charities chosen by the staff. Bigger businesses can create a bigger single impact. However, the role of small to medium-sized businesses in quietly and steadfastly supporting their community organisations is huge. There are too many to thank in one article, so I’d like to highlight Amanda Lumley of Brown’s, The Florist. We put a call out in

our weekly e-newsletter for silent auction items, and as a result Amanda picked up the phone and said “We’d like to help!” Obviously, when businesses make a donation to silent auctions and the like, it creates a profile opportunity for them as well as supporting a non-profit or community organization. If as a result of the donation, profile and subsequently further business is generated, that increases business capacity to continue or increase their support. Chambers across the region exist to support and promote business – and by extension, community – success. Julie Lawlor is the Executive Director at the WestShore Chamber of Commerce. You can reach her at 250-478-1130 or jlawlor@westshore.bc.ca

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n my comings and goings out in the community, I am constantly impressed by the support that businesses provide to non-profit, government and charitable organizations. From support in kind to financial support, from advocacy to volunteers, the role played by business in community well-being is invaluable. I know firsthand about the generosity of View Royal Casino, who with Prosperity Planning and Westridge Landing, sponsored the Chamber’s “Dinner with David Black” back in May. However, it wasn’t until I had the opportunity to learn more about how Great Canadian Casinos operate that I understood that two-thirds of the gross gaming revenues generated at the Casino goes directly to the provincial

at the Casino goes directly to the provincial

ESQUIMALT RJ SENKO

ver wonder what that tarnished silver tea set grandma passed down to you is worth or the value of the prized painting you found at a garage sale? Well it’s time to pull the tea set off of the top shelf in your back closet and bring it to the Chamber’s Arts and Antiques Appraisal at the English Inn. Bring that painting as well - unless it’s on black velvet and features dogs playing poker. On September 26 three of Canada’s top appraisers will converge on the English

Inn to provide you with information on your valued collectables. Alison Ross has gained nationa l prom i nence through her regular appearances on Pawnathon Canada but regularly plies her trade at Victoria’s Kilshaw’s Auctioneers. Colin Ritchie, CEO and Chief Appraiser at Victoria’s Colin Ritchie and Company, has extensive national and international experience having worked for Sotheby’s in Europe. John Sewell began collecting during high school and now runs his own antiques and appraisal firm out of Toronto w ith 30 years’ experience buying, selling and appraising antiques and fine art. You may know John from his regular TV appearances or his weekly newspaper column “This Old Thing”. The Chamber is hosting this fundraising event in order to further the programs and services we offer our members. To book your appointment at this exclusive

event, contact the Chamber Office at 250-590-2125. ••• Finally, as an update to last month’s column on Esquimalt’s Economic Development Strategy (EDS), the Chamber Board has written Council offering to cohost a Business Forum designed to facilitate completion of the number one priority identified in the EDS. If Council agrees, stay tuned for details on a Forum that will allow you to provide insight into how Council can “Ensure municipal planning, bylaws and policies support a vibrant local business sector”. For more information on business opportunities in Esquimalt visit our website esquimaltchamber.ca or you can give us a call at 250-590-2125. RJ Senko, Vice-President Communications and Government Relations of the Esquimalt Chamber of Commerce

OFF THE COVER

SEPTEMBER 2015

HOULE ELECTRIC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

manager of its Victoria regional office. “It began on Vancouver Island 70 years ago in Port Alberni and we’ve since grown to become the largest electrical contractor, definitely in BC but maybe in all of Western Canada, with seven regional offices located throughout the province,” he said. “One noticeable thing this year is that we’ve just added a new office in Courtenay with the hiring of Nathan Huson who’s well known in the North Vancouver Island area. So, even though we’re 70 years old we feel more energy and more excitement to grow than ever before.” Since Houle Electric was founded seven decades ago the world of the electrical contractor, specifically with the adaptation and introduction of new and emerging technologies, has changed the industry in ways its original founders could scarcely have imagined. “It’s pretty amazing that our problem isn’t a lack of opportunities it’s focusing on the ‘right’ opportunities,” McLean said. “One of the things that makes Houle so strong and attractive to tradespersons is the family story, that people come to work with us, and often the next generation will as well. They come to us because of our strong culture, a culture that came directly from the original Houle family. Houle Electric is fairly unique in that it is a manager-owned

Houle Electric routinely handles complex commercial wiring jobs such as at the new Canadian Armed Forces base fire hall company which gives it a strength and character you can’t find a more traditional single owner company,” he explained. Despite economic fluctuations that have been hard on Vancouver Island’s construction industry in recent years, Houle Electric has been able to adapt and grow to meet the needs of a changing marketplace. “Our strength is our versatility and the way we take our services to market. What we deliver isn’t just a product, it’s a full range of services, many of which people may not even be aware we provide,” McLean said. “We actually focus on the major projects like the North Island Hospitals. We’re not just doing the power we’re doing all of the low voltage systems; the security, the data, the patient wandering systems, all of the really highly technical integration work. We’re doing

“Our strength is our versatility and the way we take our services to market. What we deliver isn’t just a product, it’s a full range of services.” that work in both North Island Hospitals in Comox and in Campbell River. At the same time, when we get a call from a homeowner who is having a problem with their kitchen receptacle we’re there to help them too, whether that’s Campbell River or Port Alberni or anywhere else.” The 2015 edition of Houle Electric has grown far beyond its post-World War II origins. Today’s version of the company features more than

Another recent project carried out took place at the new Mathematics and Science Building at the University of Victoria 1,400 employees in BC with much of its operations taking place in the Lower Mainland and across the province. With a record of success stretching back more than 70 years Houle has become a true generational business, with multiple generations of workers calling the company home. “One example of that is in Comox where we have a young fellow whose Grandpa was an early Houle electrician working in Prince George. Almost every branch of the company has generational employees,” McLean said. The company has also eagerly adapted the latest in technologies, which has helped with its employee recruitment. “We have very highly trained tradespeople who have the skills for installing computer networking, controls and security and other advanced systems. We had to educate ourselves to be ready for all

aspects of the next world: The Internet of Things (which is the process of connecting all of the electronic things that matter to a business). We have an Operations Centre where we have trained people who can triage the calls received remotely, another example of how we’ve evolved and grown with the times.” An industry leader, Houle Electric strives to maintain that leadership position. “Out of our beginnings 70 years ago we have built a very strong foundation that is enabling us to be the leading edge technical, electrical contractor of the future. We cannot be the company we were 10 years ago and still be a leader,” he said. “Our mission is to be the industry leader through customer choice, and leaders don’t stand still they have to continue to figure out what the customers want and value and then move to that spot.”

FEDERAL ELECTION FORUM IN SOOKE

SOOKE SEAN DYBLE

s the country prepares to vote in the upcoming federal election, the Sooke Region Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that we a re sponsori ng a nd hosting the 2015 All Candidates Forum for the Esquimalt-Saanich-Sooke electoral district on October 6th at the Prestige Oceanfront Resort. We have previously hosted federal, provincial and municipal election forums the most recent being this past fall when over 400 citizens filled the venue to capacity. They came to hear what the candidates h ad to say on i mp or tant issues affecting our community. There are literally dozens

of issues that cou ld be raised during the twohour forum from investment in infrastructure, energy development, climate change, taxation and others. One issue I would like to see discussed at our All Candidates Forum is tourism. Sooke has a terrific and expanding tourism industry and we have a lot to offer international visitors. That being said, there are some very real impediments to our tourism competiveness as a country. A decade ago, Canada was in the top 5 of international tourist destinations; now, we are sixteenth. W hat has caused this significant drop in our ranking? Well, two of the main reasons are inadequate destination promotion and high costs. As a nation, we do not promote ourselves as a destination as effectively as some other countries do (Mexico and Australia, for example). Marketing campaigns should leverage the strong Canadian brand allowing us to aggressively compete in the global tourism market. Of course, to be really effective these

campaigns must be coordinated at the national level. The high cost of travel in this country is another major drag on our tourism industry. Federally-regulated air travel in Canada is among the most ex pensive i n the world with security and airport fees accounting for about 60 per cent of the cost of a ticket. With such high costs to travel to Canada, international tourists are inclined to look elsewhere. It i s w e l l w i t h i n t h e mandate of the Federal government to address both of these issues and I for one would like to hear what the candidates have to say about improving our international tourism competitiveness. For more information please refer to our media release on the sookeregionchamber.com website. Sean Dyble is the President of the Sooke Region Chamber of Commerce and the owner of 120 West Management Consulting. He can be reached at 250-642-6112.

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GREATER VICTORIA

SEPTEMBER 2015

NINE VOTES CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE Based on past election results and current predictions, British Columbia has a number of ridings that could be

GREATER VICTORIA BRUCE CARTER

the deciding factor in who forms our next federal government

emporary Foreign Worker Program. Trans Pacific Partnership. Affordable housing. What is each party’s stance on these as well as the plethora of other federal-level issues that potentially affect your business, community and qua l ity of l i fe? Do you have confidence in that party’s local candidate? What about its national leader? So many variables to consider! A successful democracy takes work. We need an electorate to be engaged a nd i n formed to shape the future of our country and community. Canadians are currently in the midst of the longest federal election campaign in history. You may have opportunities to

meet your local candidates or even your federal party leaders. With the click of a button you can view party platforms, watch leaders debates or ask candidates questions directly via social media. A recent poll conducted by Ipsos Reid has all three major pa rties i n a th ree-way race. Based on past election results and current predictions, British

SEPTEMBER CHAMBER EVENTS

Columbia has a number of ridings that could be the deciding factor in who forms our next federal government. Make no mistake about it your vote matters! In the last federal election, there was less than one per cent difference in number of votes between NDP and Conservative candidates in the riding of Esquimalt-Juan de Fuca. One federal constituency lost an incumbent by only nine ballots. In that same election, BC’s estimated voter turnout was 55.9 per cent, just below the national figure of 58.5 per cent. A slight - 0.06 per cent - increase over 2008, but younger electors are still voting at a lower rate than older ones. Before we all go to the polls October 19, we have the time to become informed to make the most of our vote, even help others to do the same. Exploring the opportunities, educating yourself on the process, preparing yourself to ensure your vote counts doesn’t have to end in heated debate, nor does it have to be done in isolation. There are others, especially the younger electorate, who could benefit from your viewpoint. Yes, the “fearsome foursome,” namely sex, money, religion and

• Thursday, September 10 - Prodigy Group Mingle 5 pm to 7 pm at the Robert Bateman Centre (470 Belleville St.)

• Thursday, September 24 - Harvest Dinner 5:30 pm to 9 pm at the Sea Cider Farm & Cider House (2487 Mt. St. Michael Rd.)

• Tuesday, September 15 - Art of Non-Profit Fundraising Seminar 2 pm to 4 pm at the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce (100 - 852 Fort St.)

• Tuesday, September 29 Esquimalt-Saanich-Sooke Virtual Candidate Forum Noon to 1 pm - www.victoriachamber.ca

• Thursday, September 17 - Business Mixer 5 pm to 7 pm at Max Furniture (1 - 2745 Bridge St.) • Tuesday, September 22 - “I’m on LinkedIn. Now What?” Seminar 2 pm to 4 pm - Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce (100 - 852 Fort St.)

• Wednesday, September 30 - Saanich-Gulf Islands Virtual Candidate Forum Noon to 1 pm - www.victoriachamber.ca • Thursday, October 1 Victoria Virtual Candidate Forum Noon to 1 pm - www.victoriachamber.ca

politics, can be controversial on the underlying hot-button topics. Avoiding the conversa- topics. Make the most of your tion means avoiding the mean- vote - be informed, make your ingful issues at stake. That isn’t vote count. a plan for success. Voting is an important life STUDIO® A skill that you can help develop Bruce Carter is CEO of the in others, regardless of age. The Greater Victoria Chamber of GERM-FREE Commerce. HeFLUSH can be reached more knowledgeable you are,NO-TOUCH YOU CAN EVERY TIME 250.383.7191 or bcarter@ the easier it can become to RELY en- atON victoriachamber.ca. www. gage others in meaningful polit- is available MODEL PRODUCT DESCR The new Studio ActiVate as either a 2794.119 RH EL Studio Act Right Height® elongated or Right Height round victoriachamber.ca ical discourse without touching front configuration. The smooth sided, high efficiency toilets obtain the best 1,000 g MaP flush score* and include a slow close, telescoping seat and EverClean surface at no extra cost.

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The signing took place within the Malahat First Nation’s Kwunew Kwasun Cultural Resource Centre (left to right) Acting Chief Tommy Harry, Lawrence Lewis, Nigel Kuzemko

MALAHAT FIRST NATION CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

LNG development company, we are committed to early engagement with First Nations and getting things right. That is why our first step over the past 13 months was to develop a close working relationship with the Malahat Nation based on trust and respect. Our MBA with the Malahat at this early stage of the project is a reflection of our commitment to working with each other and of the relationship we have developed. We look forward to working with the Malahat as we consider the wide range of cultural, environmental, technical, financial and social matters of importance to the Nation, neighboring First Nations and communities, and BC residents as a whole.” The project, if given the green light from the government is also expected to create hundreds of additional direct and indirect jobs across Vancouver Island in a wide variety of sectors from design, through construction and operation, as well as training and employment opportunities for Malahat Nation members, members of neighboring First Nations and other Vancouver Island

community members. “For Malahat Nation this means exercising its control of the jurisdiction of the activities happening on its lands and within its traditional territories,” Lewis explained, during the ceremony held at the Nation’s cultural centre. “It’s about building relationships that matter, that have a meaningful benefit for all involved not just a few privileged folks living on the periphery but for every subsequent generation of Malahat children and their families.” “We are at an early stage. Steelhead’s way of doing business is to try to get it right,” explained Kuzemko at the Mill Bay ceremony. “We work initially with First Nations. We listen, we gain an understanding of their objectives and then we initiate the very detailed, very rigorous federal and provincial regulatory process. There will be opportunities for everybody in the next few months to get involved. Should the project go ahead it will be for six million tonnes of LNG and that will take natural gas from Northern BC and Alberta to be processed into liquefied natural gas.” As part of the arrangement Steelhead LNG will provide the Malahat First Nation with

capacity funding to assist it in securing the expertise needed to ensure the protection of its land and interests. The Nation will also receive direct financial benefits from the project that the Nation intends to use to provide benefits and programs that align with the objectives set out in its Comprehensive Community Plan. The proposed project will undergo rigorous regulatory, environmental and technical assessments. Steelhead LNG will also undertake an extensive consultation and engagement process with members of the Malahat Nation, other potentially affected First Nations, local stakeholders and residents. The company is also currently assessing pipeline route options to deliver natural gas to Vancouver Island for both Malahat LNG and the proposed LNG project Steelhead LNG and the Huu-ay-aht First Nations are exploring at Sarita Bay in the Alberni Inlet. The sharing of pipeline infrastructure is a significant enabler for both projects. Kuzemko suggested that even if the ongoing plan gets speedy approval it will still take two to three years before any development is likely to occur at the former Bamberton site.

Kuzemko caught in a ‘media scrum’ at the close of the ceremony, fielding questions from reporters, some all the way from New York City

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CELEBRATING SUCCESS

SEPTEMBER 2015

20 YEARS

2013 Rebranding to Island Return It from each of our individually, locally named bottle refund centers to better reflect variety of service 2015 Earth Day Collection Drive at Mayfair Shopping Centre 40,000 kg of electronics 17 totes of paint cans Thousands of batteries Hundreds of plastic bags HIGHLIGHTS OF SERVICES •

Products accepted for free at Island Return It

•

Ready-to-beverage containers

•

Liquor and spirits

•

Electronics

•

Small appliances

•

Light bulbs and light fixtures

•

Smoke alarms

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Household and automotive batteries

•

Grocery bags

Island Return It prides itself on its clean and well-organized facility CREDIT:SOPHY ROBERGE

SOUTH COWICHAN GETS OWN RECYCLING CENTRE Island communities recycle over 1 billion containers

UNCAN - Island Return It, a licensee of Encorp Pacific, turns 20 this year and celebrates with an expansion to its sixth location. The recycling depot, created by Louis Spronken in 1995, has centres in Campbell River, Duncan, Esquimalt, Saltspring Island, Sidney and now in South Cowichan. “We wanted to better serve the communities of Mill Bay, Cobble Hill, Cowichan Bay and Shawnigan Lake,” said Vince Spronken, owner and operator, adding that the new location takes beverage containers, beer products, spirit and wine, electronics, small appliances, light bulbs, automotive batteries, smoke detectors, power tools, and grocery bags. “It takes approximately 60 days for an aluminum can to be recycled into a new one,” he said, adding that whether its recycling soda pop cans, paper, metal from electronics or components

It is more than just our business. It is our lifestyle VINCE SPRONKEN OWNER, OPERATOR ISLAND RETURN IT

from computers, keeping them out of the waste stream and putting them back into use saves valuable resources. “We ship collected recyclables to either Nanaimo or Victoria where it’s either baled or densified in order to ship to other companies, where it will be shredded, crushed or converted to pellets as part of the final recycling process. From there, it is shipped to companies that use it to make new products.” Sophy Roberge, marketing and public relations manager, said that Louis Spronken started the business as a direct result of a need for recycling depots. When he passed away six years ago, his son, Vince and daughter-in-law, Sophy took over the operation.

Vince Spronken continues the legacy started by his father, Louis “It’s a close knit family business,” she said. “Louis’ wife, Betty, is the accountant and Vince and I manage its operation. And we have employees that feel like family because we don’t have high staff turnover. Some have been with us for up to 18 years.”

She added that the industry attracts people who believe in what they do. Not just the employees but also the people who are recycling. “It isn’t just about getting the money back on your beverage containers, it’s about recycling today for a better tomorrow.”

Recycling depot expands across island Privately owned and family run, Island Return It, is working to make recycling a positive and convenient experience by taking the industry from a traditional industrial-type site to a bright, clean, well-organized facility. Because of its dedication and commitment to offering services at no charge and helping to create greener communities, Vince Spronken, owner and operator, was named Zero Hero, by the

Cowichan Valley Regional District, for their Zero Waste Challenge. Since Island Return It first opened its doors, the company has recycled over 1 billion containers and diverted thousands of tons of e-waste from landfills. It has a strong focus on community building and supports local charities and community groups including Big Brothers and Big Sisters, SPCA and many more.

Did you know?

Louis Spronken had a vision, to offer island communities better, more efficient recycling service. Today, his family and employees are moving forward with that legacy and making recycling more accessible and sustainable. Vince Spronken said, “The key to our success is not just because of the people that use our services, but also because of the quality of the Encorp Pacific Recycling System as a whole.”

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SEPTEMBER 2015

CONSTRUCTION Construction industry builds momentum Forecasts have all levels of construction bringing renewed opportunities

Renovation and fit-out of The Douglas Building in Victoria BETH HENDRY-YIM

ICTOR I A - BCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s construction industry gets added momentum i n 2015 w ith major resou rce projects a nd a new cycle of growth. I n a re p o r t b y B u i ld Forc e C a n a d a , a n a t i o n a l i n d u stry-led organization providing labour market information (L M I) to t he const r uct ion i ndu st r y, i nd ic at ion s show non-residential and residential construction in BC adding investment and employment opportunities throughout the province.

Projections have 2015 kicking off the increase with new projects in mining, infrastructure a nd l iquefied natu ra l gas (LNG); modest improvements in housing starts; and investment and employment growth in industrial, commercial and institutional (ICI) building. Analysis of the data for 20142015 showed that the impact on oil price decline in Alberta has benefitted British Columbia by bri ng i ng sk i l led workers back to BC to fi l l the labou r short fall. N o r t h e r n B C w i l l re a d i l y accept those workers as the prov i ncia l leg islatu re ta kes

a step closer to the sta rt-up of the first LNG plant in the province through its recently passed Liquefied Natural Gas Project Agreements Act. The agreement, passed in July of this year, removed one of two final conditions. T he proposed project, near P r i nce Ruper t, h as pla ns to create 4,500 construction jobs a nd w i l l generate $9 bi l l ion in revenue in its first 10 years alone. Grow th i n th is reg ion is seeing expansion in vital i n f rastr uctu re as wel l. At Prince George Airport an agg ressive ca rgo prog ra m h a s

constr uction of a 25,000 sq ft cargo warehouse slated for completion in November, and preparation work for the north ba n k of t he Site C d a m h a s begun with contracts awarded for initial road preparation and building. Construction of the dam itself will contribute $130 m i l l ion to the reg iona l economy. Ken Morland, director for the BC Construction Association North, a nd bra nch ma nager for Sterling Crane, said that a lt h o u g h c o m m e rc i a l c o ns t r uct ion h a s slowe d dow n SEE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY|â&#x20AC;&#x201A; PAGE 10

CONSTRUCTION

SEPTEMBER 2015

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CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9

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recently, the region is poised and ready to see all levels of building dramatically increase. “We’re seeing preparations starting w ith logg i ng a nd road construction and large companies building camps a nd mov i ng equ ipment on site,” he sa id. “T he reg ion is wa iti ng for the pipeline.” As the prov i nce a lso holds its collective breath waiting for the final go ahead on the pipeline and preparing for substantial industry growth, Bill Everitt, president, Southern Interior Construction Association, sa id that cities in the Okanagan region are seeing a good resurgence in large and medium size capital projects. “T here’s new i nterest i n the commercial side from multi density residential construction to large capital projects: like upgrades to hospitals, highway improvements and municipal infrastructure upgrades,” he said. “In Kelowna alone there are $90 million worth of upgrades.” The region, with its close proximity to northern BC and Alberta, boasts a more mobile population living in the Okanagan and working elsewhere. Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation statistics show that, in Kelowna, decl i n i ng i nventories of completed and unsold homes, combined with a stronger resale market, has supported

an increase in housing starts. Greg Baynton, president, BC Cons t r u c t i o n A s s o c i a t i o n Va n c o u v e r Isla nd, s a id t h at t he c on s t r u c t ion landscape in BC is changing, not just i n com mercia l projects, but a lso i n residential building. “On the island we’re seeing a decline in retail construction and more mixed use properties being built, with developers making better use of density, i n f i l l i n g d ow ntow n c ore s a nd upgrading existing properties.” He also said that com mercial construction on the island has seen a decl i ne yea r over yea r si nce 2012, but that the trend needs to be taken into historical context. “Prior to 2012, the construction industry reached historical highs with g row th happen i ng up a nd dow n the island. There were new malls built in Campbell R iver and UpTown in Victor ia, plus t he ref itt i ng of ex ist i ng locations for new reta i l outlets l i ke Target and West Marine in Nanaimo.” He added that the construction peaks came on the heels of the 2008 recession, when the government and public sector weren’t spending money, giving the industry a growth boost. “Now that we’ve reached new peaks we’re left with a vacuum in retail, especially as some of the American compan ies l i ke Target and West Mari ne have left the Canadian market.” Although retail may be in a lull this SEE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY| PAGE 11

CONSTRUCTION

SEPTEMBER 2015

We’re seeing preparations starting with logging and road construction and large companies building camps and moving equipment onsite KEN MORLAND DIRECTOR, BC CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATION NORTH

CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10

year, mixed-use development is not. I n Victoria, Bay nton sa id t h at tw i n towers composed of mixed use residential, office and retail space is being built by one of the biggest developers in BC in a partnership with the builders of the Concord Pacific, and the trend towards mixed use isn’t isolated to Vancouver Island. Communities throughout the prov i nce a re creati ng sma l l tow n-centers t h at combi ne residential with retail, medical and other services. In both the Okanagan and on the island, developments include single a nd mu lti fa m i ly dwel l i ngs, recre at ion a nd resor t-style

Ken Morland said the region is poised and ready CREDIT:BCCANORTH

SEE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY| PAGE 12

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CONSTRUCTION

SEPTEMBER 2015

CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

ACCORDING TO THE BCAA 2015 BC Construction Industry Survey, the top ten trades employed are carpentry, electrical, concrete finishing, heavy equipment operation, plumbing, crane operation, welding, painting, HVAC, and metal fabrication

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amenities. Wit h t he const r uct ion i ndust r y cont r ibut i ng 7.9 per cent to t he prov i nce’s GDP, a nd capita l costs of major infrastructure projects in BC hitting a record high in 2014 of $312 billion, Manley MacLachlan, president BC Construction Association, said that the construction sector is at the centre of the province’s growth. A c c o r d i n g t o B u i l d Fo r c e BC, employment in BC’s construction industry will grow m ore rapid ly t h a n i n ot h er prov i nces between 2015 a nd 202 4, a reverse of the 20102014 employment decline that saw increases in other provi nces. I n the ea rly stages of th is g row th, ex pa nsion w i l l focus on new utilities, m ining, pipelines, LNG and other resource-based projects, with key trades reaching employment peaks in 2017-2018. In residential construction a modest and steady increase is projected for 2015 but it then will be followed by a moderate 10 per cent decrease up to the end of the report period of 2024. Gains in this sector will be seen in renovation and maintenance work w ith a 16 per cent increase in jobs. Approximately 39,400 construction workers are expected to retire over the next 10 years. Added to the 18,600 workers needed to meet demands created by increased construction, BC will need to train or attract 58,000 workers. Although BC’s built environment a nd prov i nci a l l abou r force show compa rat ively strong growth, the estimated

dem a nd for sk i l led workers will challenge employers, esp eci a l ly a s new a nd u n ique projects demand a highly specialized skill set. Donna Lomas, regional dean Okanagan College, South Okanagan-Similkameen, said that it’s desirable to have training in highly specialized areas because of the shifting construction landscape. “Building codes are cha ng i ng, not just i n how th i ngs a re bu i lt, but a lso i n how the materials are used.” T he Ji m Patt ison’s Cent re of Excellence for Sustainable Building has recently attained its LEED Platinum certification and is working towards a net zero level of energy cons u mpt ion. It’s c a l led a l iving building that Lomas said demonstrated how good design doesn’t have to cost a lot. She added that in the long run these kinds of buildings save money after construction in operating expenses. “Traditional trades are being challenged to look at how they can do things differently, more efficiently, with less waste and a lower footprint,” Lomas said, adding that it’s more than just re c yc l i n g b ut a l s o for wa rd thinking and planning. She sa id that, w ith the i ncreased awareness and desirability of a trade as a career, the college is seeing wait lists for their programming, especia l ly i n electrica l, weld i ng and technology. According to the BCAA 2015 BC Construction Industry SEE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY| PAGE 13

CONSTRUCTION

SEPTEMBER 2015

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c u s tom home b u i ld er with more than a decade of success beh i nd it, and a 15th Annual Vancouver Island Business Excellence Awards winner (Construction / Development Compa ny of the Year Award), Alair Homes has earned a reputation as one of Vancouver Island’s premier home builders. “We’re thinking outwardly, our success is simply a derivative of the success of a ll of the people that we’re touching. T hat’s our client, that’s our market partners, that’s the community within which we’re b u i ld i n g,” e x pl a i ne d Ch r is Bowness, the owner of A lair Homes Victoria. “When we’re building a home on a block in Oak Bay we’re thinking about that home owner and we’re also thinking how the project and the finished home will positively impact the entire community around it.” A graduate of the University

of Victoria (UVic) as an architectu ra l eng i neer, Bow ness has used his engineering b a c k g ro u n d to go o d e f fe c t wh i le r u n n i ng h is d i f ferent enterprises. “I run the A lair Homes company of course and I also operate a supportive engineering company linked to the construction company and a rea l estate a sset development and management company, which is also connected to the construction company. It’s kind of a trifecta there, my overall professional picture,” he said. With a track record of success and an enviable regional reputation, Bowness looks forward to what the future holds for his business. “We’re continuing to g row a nd serv ice ou r cl ients in the patented Alair way that we deliver, so I think that we wa nt to keep doi ng more of the same over the next few years. To continue to work with existing clients, past clients and new prospective clients, introducing them to ourselves, our professionalism and really looking forward to working with the right type of people who are going to embrace and enjoy the overall experience that we provide.”

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CONSTRUCTION

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CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 13

Survey, the top ten trades employed a re c a r p ent r y, elect r ic a l, concrete finishing, heavy equipment operation, plumbing, crane operation, welding, painting, H VAC, and metal fabrication. Within these trades the majority of workers have been in the industry for more than 25 years and are over 46 years of age. With an aging workforce, large proposed projects and a forward thinking mentality, BC and developers are looking to train apprentices. In 2015, respondents to the survey said they

would be hiring at least 600 apprentices. Many cited reasons from preparing for the future to backfilling staff with young talent. The Skilled Trades Employment program gets skilled trades workers jobready and helps transition staff from a non-skilled worker position to the trades. Created in 2006 by the BC Construction Association, the program is looking forward to a rapidly growing province with a strong workforce. Bu i ld Force BC reported that, even after peak levels of activity have been reached, ongoing projects in ICI construction will sustain growth. That’s a positive outlook for a built BC.

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CONSTRUCTION

SEPTEMBER 2015

WESTERN GRATER CONTRACTING Western Grater Contracting: The Science of Blasting Evolved

ICTOR I A - On a traditiona l construction site drillers will punch a c ompl e x p at te r n of h ol e s into a rock face, load the holes with explosives and blast the site into a small mountain of broken debris. Ta k i ng place in a stone quarry in some remote location that traditional approach still works. But imagine carrying out that process i n the m idd le of a busy city. For an excavating and blasting challenge that demanding, the premier choice for developers has got to be Victoria’s Western Grater Contracting. “We’ve been doing this for more than 30 years now” explained Western Grater’s General Manager Jared Wells. “But worki ng i n a n u rba n centre, like in downtown Victoria, it’s all about precision and science. It’s more a case of using a scalpel not a hammer when doing the job.” E q u i p p e d w i t h a g ro w i n g f le e t of e q u ipm ent i nc lu di ng a va riety of compressed

air drilling systems, Western Grater Contracting, while focusing on the Greater Victoria a re a , h a s h a n d l e d p roj e c t s all across Vancouver Island, across British Columbia and even into the Yukon. Wells says his company has evolved far beyond its corporate origins. “We started as a blasting company in the 80’s; blasting used to be 100 per cent of our business now it’s about 50 per cent. The other 50 per cent is made up of specialty works including shoring, seismic anchors, and slope stabilization.” The resurgent and changing Victoria housing market has a lso helped to play a role i n Western Grater’s ex pa nsion and success. “T he change in the housing market in Victoria, m o v i n g to h i g h e r d e n s i t y, there’s been a cha nge i n the e x c a v a t i o n m a rk e t re q u i ri n g t h o s e s e r v i c e s ,” We l l s explained. “So for the majority of the downtown excavations we go down three stories for underground parking and we provide the services required in order to get down to those depths. It’s a lot more than just digging the hole. It also requires slope stabilization and shoring as well as a lot of science and precision in terms of the

estern Grater Contracting was formed in 1982 and specializes in drilling, blasting, shoring, anchoring, slope stabilization, grouting and shotcrete application activities. We have grown to employ a fleet of modern hydraulic and downthe-hole hammer drills. Our support equipment includes truck mounted cranes, air compressors, shotcrete line pumps and grout pumps.

blasting. For a larger project like a multi-residential unit you want to end up with a flat bottom right on the bedrock where the builders can directly pour concrete. You want to blast the site safely and accurately, yet still control the size of the rock left over when you actually do blast.” Having the skills, experience and the qualified crews to handle assignments that precise is what has placed Western Grater Contracting at the forefront of its i ndustry. “We’re busy and we keep getting busier,” Wel l s sa id . “ We’re a proud member of NorLand Limited and through that connection we have the resources at our disposal to execute contracts in an efficient and cost-effective manner. Through diversity of equipment and team members available, Western Grater Contracting offers unmatched services and skills. If someone says ‘I need a d rill and crew there tomorrow’ through our connections we can say ‘it’ll be there’. No other prov ider ca n say that, it’s pa rt of the Western Grater advantage.” www.westerngrater.com

e take pride in the quality of our work and are constantly striving to maintain the highest standards in an industry where the safety of workers and the public is of the utmost importance. Our primary focus is on fostering a culture of safety awareness amongst our employees and fellow contractors.

e are a proud member of NorLand Limited and have the resources at our disposal to execute contracts in an efficient and costeffective manner. Through diversity of equipment and team members, Western Grater Contracting offers unmatched services and skills.

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SEPTEMBER 2015

VIU MBA MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE TO GRADS’ CAREERS “I really appreciated Grads have big praises for MBA professors

A NA I MO - A s president of a relatively new and wildly successful company, Carson McPherson spends much of his time on the road growing that company. He founded CGM Marketing Ltd. in 2013, only two years after graduating from Vancouver Island University’s (VIU) MBA program. Already, his company is responsible for the national publications of companies like Royal LePage, ReMax Western Canada, Coldwell Banker and Century 21. CGM’s next step is expansion into the United States. “We grew pretty fast – from zero to sixty,” McPherson said. “We now take on select real estate projects and developments for clients that we think we can add value to.” He credits much of his success to his education, especially to the MBA program at VIU. When he chose VIU, he said he did so chiefly because of the faculty. “The kingpin for me was experience over academia,” he said. “I really appreciated the fact that a lot of the professors had real

the fact that a lot of the professors had real world experience in different companies as opposed to being career academics. If I could do it all over again, I would do the exact same thing.” CARSON MCPHERSON OWNER, CGM MARKETING LTD.

world experience in different companies as opposed to being career academics. If I could do it all over again, I would do the exact same thing.” The VIU Business School is accredited by the Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Upon completion of the program students receive a Master of Business Ad m i n istration (M BA) degree from VIU and in recognition of this work, a Master of Science in International Business (MScIB) degree from the University of Hertfordshire in Britain.

Carson McPherson credits the VIU MBA program for a great deal of his success

Kita Parker says that thanks to her MBA from VIU, she has the management position she wanted

The program provides a strong grounding in management skills in an international context. “I know people who pay twice the money for their education and get half the education out of it,” McPherson said. “My experience was with professors who were coming out of 20 or 30 year careers with different companies and organizations or maybe they owned companies. These were people who could take academic theory and relate it to the experience they had. Now I can put cause and effect together and realize that these people were very accurate with what they were talking about.” He noted that the curriculum was comprehensive, but in the end, it

all boiled down to the people. It’s a program he would recommend without reservation. “Probably the most impressive thing about the entire process for me was that a lot of those professors stayed in touch after the fact. They’re not just churning out a class; they want you to be successful in your career.” Kita Parker, manager of health safety and training at Catalyst Paper in Port Alberni said that hard work got her to the position she has today. However, she gives equal credit to her credentials: an MBA from VIU. Parker completed her program in 2012. I wanted to be more competitive in the market,” she said. “I knew that if I worked towards getting

my Masters, I would have a bit more of an edge.” She said that she chose VIU because she was familiar with the school, having attained her business degree there. She was also impressed with the professors. “There were some amazing instructors who I learned a lot from, and there’s a large international population that attends the program and to be learning from people from different nationalities was also huge. I have the position I have today because of my credentials.” She said that an internship is part of the MBA program. Parker did her stint with Catalyst in its recruitment department. The company subsequently hired her full time. After moving up to a training coordinator position in Port Alberni, she was given the management position she holds today. She said that the VIU MBA program is one she would recommend, and, in fact, has recommended to others. “VIU is still small enough that all the teachers know who you are – so you have those relationships. I still speak to my instructors from that program. That differentiates VIU – you’re not just a name on a list. They’re willing to go the extra mile to help you achieve your goals.” www2.viu.ca/mba/

Now offering MBA + MScIM dual degrees. Have the best of both worlds. Earn your MBA at a great school while staying close to home.

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worldviu@viu.ca 1.888.920.2221 viu.ca/mba

SEPTEMBER 2015

APPRAISAL FIRM WELCOMES MENTOR AND APPRAISER Our Victoria office David Osland joins Cunningham Rivard to focus on valuations

ICTORIA/NANAIMO - Cunningham Rivard A p p r a i s a l s (CR A) on Vancouver Island recently announced that Dav id Osland, accredited appraiser Canadian Institute (AACI), P.App, Fellow, will be joining its team. With more than 40 years of experience in appraisals and as a past partner at Baker & Osland Appraisals, he brings an added level of expertise and experience to the company. David Kirk, AACI and partner at CR A Vancouver Island since 1993, said it is a win-win situation. “This is a much anticipated addition to our Victoria office. Osland is free to wind down before retiring and, to focus on valuations and our Victoria office benefits from his knowledge and mentorship.” Osland said, with retirement age getting closer, running a business wasn’t as rewarding as working on appraisals. At CRA in Victoria he can now take care of his clients and share his wealth of knowledge with the younger appraisers. Greg Rounis, AACI and partner at CR A, said, “It’s a good fit. Osland has been working in Victoria for many years and brings extensive connections and clientele.” Osla nd sa id that the move will be seamless for his clients with no disruption of service or quality of care. Starting his career as an appraiser for the BC provincial govern ment a nd the C it y of V i c t o r i a , O sl a nd now s p eci a l i zes i n a l l for m s of rea l property appraising with an emphasis on complicated valuations like submerged lands, privately owned timberland, one-off properties, and condo

benefits from Osland’s knowledge and mentorship DAVID KIRK PARTNER CUNNINGHAM RIVARD APPRAISALS (VANCOUVER ISLAND)

Dave Kirk became a partner at CRA in 1993

Doyle Childs is experienced as an expert witness CREDIT:GREG ROUNIS

developments. He has provided expert evidence i n cou r ts of rev ision, assessment appeal boards, arbitration hearings, expropriation compensation, Supreme Court of BC and the Federal Court of Canada. As a former member of the BC Assessment Appeal Board, Osl a nd h a s lectu red on appraisal principles and advanced appraisal courses at the Universit y of British Columbia and the Victoria Real Estate Board. He said that appraisers draw from several valuation techniques to determine the value of real property. In some cases an appraisal requires a market comparison, but in most cases complex formulas and careful consideration of multiple factors must be analyzed before an accurate valuation can be made. “If a piece of land is expropriated, for example, it isn’t just the value of the land that is considered. Damages to the remainder of the property also have to be considered.” He added that becoming an

appraiser requires several years of university-credited courses as well as the fulfillment of ongoing continuing education credits. “Book learning to become an appraiser is extensive,” he said. “When combined with field experience it gives the customers a more accurate valuation.” Part of the reason he is looking forward to joining CR A, is to provide that hands on practice via mentorship with the newer appraisers. Rounis said that the junior appraisers in the office will benefit from Osland’s experience by exchanging and sharing ideas and from his valued opinion. “They will be able to work on different types of appraisals w ith Osla nd a nd lea rn from those experiences.” Kirk said that as Vancouver Island’s largest real estate appraisal firms, CR A provides comprehensive services to a broad client base in both the private and public sectors. With offices in Victoria, Nanaimo, and Duncan, CR A provides

carefully researched, reasoned and supported analysis of industrial, commercial and residential real estate. Founded in 1967 by Fred Cunningham and Larr y R ivard, CRA grew rapidly with branche s i n s e v e ra l c o m m u n i t i e s around BC. In 1973 Rivard retired and the company was sold with Cunningham remaining as regional manager. In 1978, when Cunningham retired, the branch offices were sold to the employees allowing each office to be independently owned and operated. In 1980 Al Brown joined the Vancouver Island branch and became a partner in 1986. Dave Kirk followed in 1992 and became a partner a year later. As the company’s experience and reputation grew, more appraisers joined its growing roster, Doyle Childs becoming partner in 2003 and Jason Mikes, Greg Rounis and Simon Wainwright joining between 2003 and 2007 and becoming partners in 2012. Each appra iser bri ngs a unique skill set and specialty t o t h e c o m p a n y, c r e a t i n g

c o m p re h e n s i v e s e r v i c e fo r fulfilling clients’ needs from appraisals on unique waterfront property to commercial and income producing property. With its 12 appraisers and support staff across the south and mid-island region CRA has the right expert, whether it is services concerning expropriation, development, partial takings, golf courses, private islands and First Nations land claim issues, or for on-going-concern properties like pubs, hotels, restaurants or gas bars, valuations on agricultural land, conservation covenants, wetlands, marinas and/or leasehold interests. “When you get more specialized, the pool of professionals able to fulfill a particular job is much narrower,” Kirk said, adding that CRA in Victoria is establishing a pool of younger up and coming appraisers that can learn and get experience in these unique and highly specialized areas. “The intent is to have Osland introducing his clients to CRA SEE APPRAISAL FIRM | PAGE 18

5 : %RE

:DOO /WG

DTZ Nanaimo wishes Cunningham & Rivard continued success! DTZ Nanaimo is Central Vancouver Island’s most comprehensive Commercial Real Estate brokerage.

- Property Management - Business Brokerage - Sales & Leasing

250 753 5757 DTZnanaimo.com DTZ Nanaimo Real Estate Ltd.

Proud to Support Cunningham Rivard

Congratulations Herold Congratulations Cunningham on your 20thRivard year On your Milestone in Business

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TECHNOLOGY

SEPTEMBER 2015

PIONEERS IN GAMING

TECHNOLOGY ROB COOPER

T Jason Mikes became a partner in 2012. Each partner specializes in unique aspects of appraisals

APPRAISAL FIRM CONTINUED FROM PAGE 17

and its appraisers,” he said, adding that he wants Osland’s clients to feel confident that even though Osland will eventually be retiring and leaving, they will still be well taken care of. “They will know that someone very capable is taking over their file, with the blessing of Osland.” Osland isn’t the only one at CR A w it h ex p er ience a s a n expert witness. Kirk, Rounis, Childs and Wainwright also are recognized and provide service in this field. Kirk said that his experience was gained while working as a highway right-ofway agent, speaking before the expropriation compensation board on behalf of the province and the ministry of highways. “From there it was a matter of becoming involved in those kinds of files, going to court, testifying and producing good work.” He added t h at he bu i lt h is reputation as an expert witness

Becoming an accredited appraiser through the Canadian Institute of Appraisers, Simon Wainwright joined Cunningham & Rivard in 2007 and became a partner in 2012

over the years through lease arbitration and being a decent witness, that not every appraiser enjoys getting on the stand providing testimony. Both Osland and Kirk agree that the need for an appraisal varies and doesn’t always require expert testimony in court. It can involve all levels of real estate from residential to commercial to industrial. Osland said that most people will know about an appraisal of a home for lending purposes but valuing property for lending institutions is only one area of appraisal work. Appraisals are also needed in cases of divorce where assets a re va lued a nd split or for legal purposes where one person is suing another. “If someone cuts down a tree on your property, not only does an appraiser have to look at the value of the tree, but also the destruction of privacy, the potential devaluation of the property and the damage that may occur to the remaining trees and property.” H e s a i d t h a t e s t a te p l a nning can also benefit from the

ser v ices of a n appra iser for fair dispensation of property assets after death. In cases of insurance, having an accurate appraisal ensures the right value for the property just in case an insurance claim needs to be filed. He a lso added that certa i n projects i nvolve issues that requ i re a deeper k nowledge of city zon i ng, per m its a nd regulations. “It isn’t just about formulas, but also contacts and getting the information you need when you need it,” he said. Kirk said CRA Vancouver Island understands the value of having Osland join its team, not just in the connections and clients Osland brings with him, but also in the knowledge and experience he will pass on. Kirk and the rest of the island team are looking forward to growing their presence in Victoria and being a part of helping Osland take the next step in his career. Cunningham Rivard Appraisals Vancouver Island is at 771 Vernon Avenue in Victoria www.crisland.com

Trusted Real Estate Valuation since 1973.

Cunningham Rivard Welcomes David Osland Victoria Office:

Nanaimo Office:

Duncan Office:

(250) 381-4455

(250) 753-3428

(250) 737-1777

103-771 Vernon Avenue

70 Prideaux Street

300-394 Duncan Street

www.crisland.com

he d i g ita l v id e o ga ming industry in Victoria has rea l ly ta ken of f i n the past few years, now supporting 20 gaming studios and approximately 250 employees. T h is cu rrent situ at ion provides an interesting backdrop from which to look at Inlight Entertainment, a local gaming company that has roots back in the very start of the industry in the city. Inlight was founded in 2003 by partners Devin Young, Darren McGrath and Matthew Powell, all three of whom originally hailed from Sanctuary Woods Multimedia Corporation, the first digital gaming company in Victoria. Sanctuary Woods was founded in 1988 in Kanata, Ontario, moved to Victoria in 1990, went public on the Vancouver Stock Exchange in 1991 and was ulti mately traded on NASDAQ starting in 1993. Buoyed by their success in the CD-ROM gaming market, Sanctuary Woods had challenges in the mid-90s as the industry

began moving towards other d e l ive r y m e c h a n i s m s ( l i k e t he World Wide Web wh ich at that time was just starting to hit widespread adoption). With that backdrop, Sanctuary Woods was sold to Disney Interactive in 1996 and the core team stayed together in Disney’s Victoria studio. In an industry where change is truly the only constant, Disney exited the Victoria market in 2003, but sold the assets of the studio to Young, McGrath & Powell, who then launched Inlight Entertainment. For these past 12 years, Inl i g ht h a s d e ve lop e d g a m e s for the likes of Disney/Pixar, Scholastic, Fisher Price a nd LeapFrog, as well as producing critically acclaimed original games. In recent years, their biggest focus has been on developing Disney/Pixar titles like Toy Story and Cars for LeapFrog’s educational platform, which boasts a multi-million device user base. With 25 years invested in the local gaming industry, the partners are optimistic about the future growth in Victoria. Says Inlight President Devin Young, “With how much the barriers to entry have come down, there are a lot of exciting things going on and Victoria is proving we can succeed in the international market.“ Rob Cooper is a Director at VIATeC and founder of PlusROI Online Marketing, a web development & marketing firm. He can be reached at Rob@PlusROI.com.

UPCYCLING: OPPORTUNITIES

JILL DOUCETTE

Upcycling is defined as the reuse of discarded objects or material in such a way as to create a product of a higher quality or value than the original. It is a way to turn waste into a new, marketable product, and this notion is taking off on Vancouver Island. Upcycling turns this costly problem into an opportunity. Letting the creative sector loose to develop new products that can be made from these wastes can generate new green ventures. The Synergy Upcycling Working Group is a collection of local entrepreneurs that are working with green businesses to develop new products from

their resources. Members of the working group include: Woodcoast—Two woodworkers collecting and upcycling used skateboards into colorful tables, crib boa rds a nd other wood products. Vittrium—a loca l compa ny that uses glass from bottles like Phillips beer in the production of beautiful, sustainably made countertops. Island Java Bags—this company employees local seamstresses who turn burlap coffee sacs into fashionable purses, growler carriers and other bags. Seeds of Cha nge —ow n e r, Kimiko, upcycles shampoo and other containers for her line of healthy and eco-friendly cosmetics and skincare. Removeandreuse.com is a new website where locals can post construction waste and other types of waste online for free or for sale. This is a great resource for upcyclers looking for materials. For more information visit www.vigreeneconomy.com and www.removeandreuse.com

SEPTEMBER 2015

REAL ESTATE FEATURE

Women In Commercial Real Estate Sales No Longer A Rarity While once dominated by male realtors, Commercial Real Estate Sales has become a popular career choice for female sales professionals.

ICTOR I A – T he act of buying or selling real estate, especially commercial real estate, can be a complex and even intimidating thing. To safely navigate the turbulent waters of legal forms, financing and marketing most thoughtful buyers and sellers employ the services of professional realtors. Women across the country have recognized the potentials for independence and business success that a career in real estate sales can offer, in many Canadian markets taking leadership roles in the industry, especially among Residential Real Estate sales. But unlike with residential real estate, its heavy weight cousin Commercial Real Estate has until recent decades been largely a Men’s Only Club. But that’s all changed, the glass ceiling has been shattered and nobody’s ever going to fix it! Women, once a rare minority, are playing larger and more dominant roles in Canada’s commercial real estate scene. “Women bring something special to the process,” explained Kathy Hogan, Executive Director of the Urban Development Institute (Capital Region). “It may be simplifying it to say they can bring heart to the transaction, but really they do. For many female Commercial Realtors that innate ability to feel compassion and to develop an appreciation of the needs of the clients places them in a better position for finding the right property. This is especially the case if the client is a woman there is automatically a bond that won’t be there under any other circumstance.” For m a ny mem b ers of t he Victoria and area commercial rea l estate sa les profession, the gender bias, or even gender awareness, is an item reserved more for the history books than it is real estate sales as practiced in the 21st Century. “I really don’t see any difference in perception in terms of customers and how they view a female commercial realtor. I don’t at all, in fact I never really thought about it

“It was automatically assumed that I was either an assistant or a marketing coordinator or a receptionist.”

Anne Tanner is the Managing Director with Cushman / Wakefield in Victoria. much. I’ve always been in real estate and have been a commercial realtor for the past 25 years,” explained Sue McKitrick with DTZ (Nanaimo). “I worked over i n t he U K , way back in the ‘80s and it was certa i n ly noticeable then (a gender imbalance) it was a very male-dominated place and time. But I didn’t find that coming back here. I suppose there are some barriers that might still be there but I guess I’ve never really come across it. People treat me as I treat them, as professionals. That’s the way it has to be when you’re buying or selling commercial real estate.” Other members of this unique a nd ex pa nd i ng professiona l sorority agree that while times have changed and have become more accepting, that wasn’t

always the case. “Not today, but I remember back when I started in commercial real estate, that was in 1999, from 1999 right through the first 10 years when I was going to functions, networking events, industry events it was automatically assumed that I was either an assistant or a marketing coordinator or a receptionist,” said Anne Tanner, Managing Director with Cushman / Wakefield in Victoria. “The first question I would always get would be ‘which broker are you assisting?’ So I’d have to say, ‘well actually I’m the broker’ – it was just assumed that females would be in that support role, not in the actual lead role. Now you’re seeing more of them in a leading role as a broker.” SEE WOMEN IN COMMERCIAL | PAGE 20

WOMEN IN COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

20 WOMEN IN COMMERCIAL CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19

For Tanner that willingness to carry on with her chosen profession, despite any initial resistance has paid off, in a big way! “Just this past year I made the Top 40 in all of Canada on the commercial side and that was the first time that we’ve ever seen that at Cushman / Wakefield. So that was the first time a female has actually made it into the Top 40 across Canada,” she said. “It was pretty interesting when that information got released I got calls from females from all over Canada congratulating me, saying I was really leading the pack in showing that women are making an impact on the commercial real estate industry, and are now very much involved on the brokerage side. So it was kind of nice to have feedback from agents across Canada who were rooting for me and supporting me and liking the path we’re building for women in the industry.” Another Capital Region female commercial realtor, Amanda Neil with DTZ (Victoria), said the rate of acceptance for women in the profession has grown dramatically over the past 10 years. “In residential real estate you certainly would see a larger presence of women than you would on the commercial side. When I first started in Victoria I believe there were only two other

Sue McKitrick has worked as a Commercial Realtor for more than 25 years

Commercial Realtor Amanda Neil is a Partner at DTZ Victoria

women working as commercial realtor. Now of course there’s more which I think is a really nice thing to see. Most brokerages here do have one or two female commercial realtors working at them now. It’s nice to be in good company.” CREW (Commercial Real Estate Women) which is an industry support group with a chapter in Vancouver (and is planning to open one in Victoria) is one resource available to female commercial realtors. Part of this group’s functions include hosting multiple networking opportunities throughout the year where members can meet their peers, participate in ongoing

training opportunities and other educational programs. The organization maintains that one of the keys to success in real estate sales, or any other profession is having a passion for the job. A spokesperson for the groups stated that “It all comes down to passion for the job that will shine through irrespective of gender.” That energy, that love for the job of selling real estate is a trait exhibited by all of the leaders of the profession, both male and female. For McKitrick, while being a commercial realtor and a woman is no longer the rarity it was, being one that focuses exclusively on the ‘commercial side’ can

be. “There are very few female realtors who do just commercial the way I do it. There are many more who are residential realtors who do some commercial work now and then. Especially in the smaller markets realtors who do commercial sales more often than not also do residential. I do just commercial, which I guess would make me something of a rarity, especially in a smaller market.” For Neil who works out of DTZ’s Victoria office, the fact her company works exclusively in the commercial market has been a major plus. “By being exclusively a commercial real estate company I think it allows you to focus it on a bit more. Obviously we still maintain relationships with residential realtors in Greater Victoria, and it’s good for us to keep up on that market as it obviously influences some of the things we do, specifically as it relates to developments. On the commercial side we’re focused strictly on leasing and sales within that realm.” “My response when asked why I went into commercial over residential is that I was more interested in commercial. The key word that differentiates commercial from residential real estate is emotion,” explained Tanner. “On a commercial project investors aren’t emotionally attached to the real estate. They’re looking at real estate as an asset,

SEPTEMBER 2015

as an income producing investment. They’re looking at the numbers and the return they’re going to be getting. In residential you’re looking at a house, where people have raised their families for the past 20 years. They have an emotional investment in the real estate. I wanted to deal solely with business I wanted to look after the work without the emotion or other baggage. That’s why commercial real estate was the best fit for me.” Neil also says that while it may be historically true that commercial real estate sales was a male-dominated endeavor, those days are gone. “If there is hesitancy on the part of the customer to deal with a female commercial realtor I’ve never seen it,” she said. “It’s really relationship driven and I think there may be things that some people gravitate toward because of commonalities. There are many women who are running various organizations and businesses who are decision makers and who want to work alongside of other women. But equally there are just as many men in those same roles who appreciate what we can bring to the table. So I think at the end of the day it’s really based on individual merit and relationships that dictate who’s going to get the business, and who’s going to keep the business. Not what their sex is.”

Commercial Real Estate Management ... managing properties properly. The enhancement of value and prudent care of client’s assets is the focus of the approach taken by our commercial property management group. Pemberton Holmes Ltd. possesses a proven track record in managing properties to increase their long-term value, while ensuring their efficiency on a day-to-day basis. Our maintenance programs endeavor to be both corrective and preventive. Our management team has proven its ability to reduce operating costs while improving service, thus positively impacting the owners’ bottom line.

Gail McClymont Managing Director

Chelsea McClymont Senior Commercial Property Manager & Real Estate Agent

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We emphasize the importance of keeping tenants satisfied by meeting their changing needs, and by maintaining properties in first-class condition. We perform long-range cost planning, minimizing year-over-year increases in tenant charges, and enhancing the property for tenants and occupants. We have the resources, expertise and knowledge to achieve our results with confidence and certainty. Pemberton Holmes’ century of experience has proven that value added management today results in significant value realization for our clients tomorrow.

101 - 891 Attree Avenue, Vic t oria , BC, V 9 B 0 A6 | 2 5 0 - 478-9141 | www. p h p m . c a

SEPTEMBER 2015

WOMEN IN COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE

COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE LAWYER HELPS CLIENTS NAVIGATE LARGEST LIABILITY

CLAY & COMPANY LAWYERS Proud to work with Adams Storage Group

It’s exciting to be a Lease reviews save time and money

ICTORIA - Kristil Hammer works with a sophisticated clientele, the leaders in business and development in Western Canada. As a commercial real estate lawyer at Clay & Company, Victoria, Hammer not only brings her knowledge about real estate law to the table, but also the backing of the company’s 9 decades of experience. “Specializing in this field allows me to be an excellent source of information for new and experienced landlords,” she said, adding that her job is to help clients negotiate the pitfalls and additional costs of a purchase agreement or lease. “A lease is one of the largest liabilities a small business can take on and many owners are unaware of its full extent and the significant additional costs involved.” Hammer said she helps her clientele understand key terms and points within the contract and gets familiar with their needs and expectations. “T hey need someone to be

part of an industry that is fundamental to the growth of my city and province look i ng out for t hei r r ig hts whether the client is a landlord or a leasee.” She added that a lease review can take only a couple of hours but provide a wealth of information; especially as once signed it is binding. Hammer, born and raised in the capital region, knows her community, understands its challenges for business and strives to provide practical and valuable legal advice to her clients. Graduating in 2007, she has been working at Clay & Company since 2010 and said it’s a pleasure working at such a premier and well-established organization. “We have many longstanding client relationships,” she said. “It’s exciting working with them and to be a part of an industry that is fundamental to the growth of my city and province.” Cl ay & Compa ny i s at 837 Burdett Ave in Victoria www.clay.bc.ca

Paul G. Scambler, Q.C. Margaret Sasges Jessica Koch Christian Wilson

CLAY & COMPANY Main Floor, 837 Burdett Avenue Victoria, B.C. V8W 1B3

www.clay.bc.ca

Phone: (250) 386-2261 Facsimile: (250) 389-1336

LAWYERS & MEDIATORS Kristil Hammer Solicitor

Corporate commercial and transactional law, real estate and financial services Contact: khammer@clay.bc.ca

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SEPTEMBER 2015

Motorsport-Focused Resort Planning Spring 2016 Opening Being constructed in two phases, the Vancouver Island Motorsport Resort track is being developed by renowned international design firm Tilke GmbH & Co.

ICTORIA - Set in Vancouver Island’s temperate and scenic Cowichan Valley, the Vancouver Island Motorsport Resort (VIMR) is on schedule to become Canada’s premier club motorsport facility. Opening in spring, 2016, the resort will offer enthusiasts up to 350 driving days per year in which to enjoy the full potential of their performance cars. Designed by internationally renowned design firm Tilke GmbH & Co., the circuit at the Vancouver Island Motorsports Park will provide the novice with an opportunity to gain proficiency, while offering enough challenges for the accomplished driver. Phase One comprises 19 corners and elevation changes of over 25 metres. When Phase Two is completed, a total of 4.21 kilometres of track will be available. Speeds of up to 200 km/h will be reached on the

Artist’s rendering of the planned Vancouver Island Motorsport Resort (VIMR) which is scheduled to open next spring

The Vancouver Island Motorsport Resort (VIMR) will feature an ultra modern 15,000 sq ft clubhouse that will include a 5-Star quality restaurant high-speed sectors of the circuit in the first Phase. Driver safety is a main priority. Run-out areas, tire barriers, and guard rails are featured to protect both driver and car and to allow correction before a possible impact. Members travelling to Vancouver Island to enjoy their membership will be able to additionally choose the convenience of leaving their car at the VIMR secure and temperature-controlled storage facility. Cars stored at the resort will be maintained to track-ready condition by specialists, providing the member full use of their car when their schedule allows with minimal personal effort for repair and maintenance. Technicians representing Alfa Romeo, Audi S, BMW M, Mercedes-Benz AMG, MINI JCW, and Porsche will be available to provide the expertise needed to keep modern track cars in perfect running condition. Members who enjoy vintage sports and racing cars will have the opportunity

to have their cars maintained by Rudi & Company, a world-renowned specialist in the restoration and repair of the world’s great cars. Assistance with the delivery of a member’s car to the resort can be arranged. An exclusive 15,000 square foot Clubhouse will offer a complete range of services to club members. A Restaurant that is partnered with a 5 - Star Hotel will celebrate the best of Vancouver Island cuisine. Comfortable changing and locker rooms, offering thoughtfully considered amenities the Clubhouse will provide a comfortable atmosphere to relax in between driving sessions. Members travelling to Vancouver Island will have the option of staying with the resort’s Partner Hotel which is conveniently located equidistant between Victoria and the VIMR. The Partner Hotel is just a 40-minute drive to the VIMR, and the sights and attractions of Victoria. Members and guests will enjoy the variety of activities available to them.

Shopping, sight-seeing, and a variety of outdoor sports activities will provide ample choice to satisfy the interests and needs of individuals, couples and groups. Apart from booking traditional reservations with the resort spa and restaurant, the concierge service will be available to book VIMR driving sessions, rounds of golf at area courses, fishing

Designed by Tilke GmbH & Co., the track planned for the Vancouver Island Motorsport Resort will be perfect for drivers of all skills levels charters, and any other arrangement that will enhance their stay while on Vancouver Island. VIMR members will receive enhanced Priority Booking Privileges, allowing for advanced reservations. Working in partnership with 10 performance automobile brands, their dealer networks, and respective dedicated driving programs, the

Partner Hotel and Spa will welcome enthusiasts from all over North America. The Vancouver Island Motorsport Resort will be a unique facility set in one of Canada’s most picturesque locations. Membership details will be presented in the next few weeks. For further information visit: http://islandmotorsportresort. com/

The auto shop and garage facilities anticipated at VIMR will be as state of the art as the resort itself, offering the latest in maintenance technology

SEPTEMBER 2015

COMMUNITY IN

SAANICH PENINSULA

Saanich Peninsula Finds The Right Economic Development Mix The three communities of the Saanich Peninsula have perfected the harmony between industrial development and a vibrant agricultural sector.

rojecting northward from t he f l a n ks of sout her n Va n c o uve r I s l a n d l i k e some g ia nt ‘thu mbs up’ the Saanich Peninsula is geographically distinct, yet economically intertwined with the communities that comprise the Greater Victoria area. Encompassing just over 100 square kilometers, the Peninsula is home to three individual municipalities, the District of Central Saanich, the Town of Sidney and the District of North Saanich, when travelling from south to north. “There are three municipalities on the Saanich Peninsula, we are the northernmost,” explained Alice Finall, the Mayor of North Saanich. “We are historically and to a large extent remain a more rural municipality. There is obviously some neighborhood housing but in a large sense this is a rural, farming community. In addition to agriculture which is one of our forming industries we are also a transportation hub, because both the ferry terminal and the Victoria International Airport are in North Saanich. Viking Air is there, Vancouver Island Helicopters and quite a number of related smaller businesses are located at the airport as well.” “In as much all of the communities that make up Greater Victoria serve all the other communities of Greater Victoria, so do we,” explained John Treleaven, a Director with the Saanich Chamber of Commerce si nce 2006, a nd a Ch a mber Past-President. “T hese th ree com mu n ities of course are a transportation hub because of BC Ferries, the Anacortes Ferry and the airport. So those facilities wouldn’t be there were it not for the other 10 communities. We’re completely integrated, there’s no question about that. The Mayor of the District of Central Saanich, Ryan Windsor, says one of the real strengths of the region’s economy is the broad diversity of the business sectors represented within its boundaries. “We’re all about

“If there is a single message to get out it’s this: we’re good, but we’ve got to get better.”

vibrancy and a mixed economy. Agriculture is certainly a big part of our economic mix. Right down to there being livestock here, there are horses, they’re a big part of the economy,” he said. “Growing things is important, growing everything from vegetables to livestock production. There are some producers who have broiler chickens that they supply into the local marketplace. So diversity is really the name of the game. Central Saanich is probably unique in this, the next closest to us is Saanich and they’re five times our size. They are probably the closest

as they have the mix of a large land base and agricultural land with industrial at the south end, where we’re sort of all mixed together,” he explained. For Treleaven the peninsula’s unique blending of industry with agriculture provides the area with a distinct status within the Capital Region. “The Saanich Peninsula has 51 percent of the ALR (Agricultural Land Reserve) land in Greater Victoria and 55 percent of everything manufactured in Greater Victoria is manufactured on the Peninsula. I mean how wonderful is that?” SEE SAANICH PENINSULA | PAGE 24

COMMUNITY IN FOCUS

SEPTEMBER 2015

SAANICH PENINSULA CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

He maintains however that finding the right balance between industry and agriculture can pose some administrative problems at the municipal level. “You can understand the challenges in shaping public policy. The reality is, certainly on the i ndustria l side, most of the businesses are producing products for global markets. Viking Aviation hasn’t sold a plane yet in the Saanich Peninsula, nor in Greater Victoria or even on Vancouver Island. They are not alone,” he said. “There is such a range of marvelous, entrepreneurial highly competitive businesses that have located to the Saa n ich Peninsula. From the guy who makes most of the soccer goal posts used in North America to the other who is creating control systems for urban transit rail vehicles in New York City and in Japan, it’s simply amazing! For the agrifood businesses having a ready market for their products right at hand is a real advantage. Think about it, their market is the 368,000 people right there in Greater Victoria.” W h i le t he V ic tor i a I nternational Airport and its surrou nd i ng footpr i nt ser ve as the centre of i ndustr y i n North Saanich, Mayor Finall says tourism is another of her

Port Sidney Marina PHOTO CREDIT: D. WARNER

West Sidney Industrial Park PHOTO CREDIT: I. MCKENZIE

The Victoria International Airport is a huge part of the transportation hub which is the Saanich Peninsula. The Airport also serves as the nexus for the area’s manufacturing industries municipality’s major economic a ssets. “T he a i r p or t a nd its related business is a major

business hub but we also have a very large marina (boating) industry in North Saanich. We

probably have more marina slips than anywhere else on the island. It’s only natural considering we have 45 kilometers of coastline.” While noted for the richness, history and diversity of its agricultural resources, the peninsula has also recognized the real importance of having designated areas where industry can exist, in many cases operating directly alongside of working farmland. “An area such as that would include Keating Cross Road which is an industrially zoned area. T here’s also some industrial activity on the airport land of cou rse. T here’s a lso a g ravel extraction area that’s been operating for the past 40 years, the Butler extraction mine,” described Mayor Windsor.

“You also have some newer light industrial, a lot of small sc a le m a nu factu r i ng t h at’s hidden in there. The Portofino Bakery is hidden away in the Keating area they’re a recognized brand in the Victoria area and beyond.” Treleaven says that thanks to the foresight of those who came before, the region’s agricultural lands will continue to be key components of the area’s economic mix in perpetuity. “If there’s an area that demonstrates the wisdom of the ALR it’s the Saanich Peninsula. To preserve agricultural land which goes on to produce high value-added products at the edge of a metropolitan area SEE SAANICH PENINSULA | PAGE 25

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company operates, or the quality of the products and services they provide.” With more than 30 years of industry experience, the team at Talon has the complete capabilities necessary to take their clients through the entire design, manufacturing and installation process. “Having a great looking and effective sign is about putting your best foot forward,” says Eastman. “Good first impressions are vital for success in any business type, and our priority here is to help our clients communicate more effectively. “Sometimes all it takes is a little freshening up, a new coat of paint, or a change in graphics. What seems like a small change can end up making a big difference in the mind of a customer.” Talon clients go through a personalized onboarding process that identifies customer needs and objectives, budgets and timeframes, design and manufacturing, and finally the municipal approval and installation process. Renee and her husband Joe started the business 2 years ago, and currently employ 3 additional staff. www.talonsigns.com

SEPTEMBER 2015

COMMUNITY IN FOCUS

The Swartz Bay BC Ferry Terminal is another of the Saanich Peninsula’s key business and transportation infrastructures

SAANICH PENINSULA CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24

of 368,000 people is pretty marvelous. Just think of the wineries here, I don’t have to fly to California or the Okanagan Valley – I’m 15 minutes from about six wineries,” he said. The ongoing importance of preserving the Saanich Peninsula’s agricultural resources is also a prime concern for Mayor Windsor. “It’s a centerpiece of ou r OCP, O u r Com mu n ity Pl a n, that we will protect those agricultural lands, they are in the ALR, but we further have always upheld that standard and encouraged the maintenance of that sta nda rd. T h is cou nci l by a nd large agrees with that protection. You don’t often hear someone say ‘hey, let’s get rid of some of these agricultural lands’ it’s not something you’ll hear from this council,” he said. “There is sometimes disagreement about what is appropriate where, but I think it’s a thoughtful council by and large. They don’t always agree on everything and that’s fine, I don’t always think the council should always agree on everything– different perspectives are always welcomed at the table.” “The essence of a community is that com mu n ity’s abi l ity to ea rn a n i ncome. Once that’s established society creates the env i ron ment that it wishes,” Treleaven explained. “All tax revenue comes only from a business

Sidney is home of an extensive tourism industry, with its immediate access to the BC Ferry Terminal and its attraction for marine-based visitors

t ra n sact ion. T he ‘cach i nga-ch i ng’ of the cash register, no matter how it happens, or whoever the customer is, of course is predicated on the entrepreneur and a talented labor force and all that to deliver the product or services,” he said. “With the Canadian dollar down the competitive advantage Canada offers as an export platform goes up in direct proportion. We seem to have trouble being competitive when our dollar is at or above par with the US dollar. Since much of what we produce is in either goods or services destined for the global marketplace it’s obvious our fate lies well beyond these borders.” The concept of development for development’s sake is not a part of the philosophy envisioned for the future of the Saanich Peninsula. Mayor Finall believes much of what’s needed for the region to grow and prosper in the coming years is already in place. “Certainly additional development isn’t something that I’m actively pursuing. We already have a lot of industry in the area. We have a large industrial business sector and we still have the lowest residential tax rate in the capital region.” The sentiment that quality of life is just as important as economic development is echoed by Mayor Windsor. “I think that we recognize that the economy is important within our community. It’s one of the pillars if you will. In a community you have recreation and play, you have quality of life, you have economy, you have the environment and I think it’s important that we don’t lose focus on any of those things.” For Treleaven the communities of the Saanich Peninsula function at their best through the simplicity and ease of its integration with the area’s neighboring communities. “Greater Victoria does function as a business community without boundaries and so we have members who are in Victoria and there are members of our chamber who are members of the Victoria chamber. That being said, the vast majority of our members are located in and conduct business in the Saanich Peninsula,” he said. “The businesses on the Saanich Peninsula are in the leading edge of some very important industries; tourism, aviation, marine science, agriculture, the recreational marine industry. If there is a single message to get out it’s this: we’re good, but we’ve got to get better.”

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SEPTEMBER 2015

DIVERSE OWNERSHIP GROUP TAKES GORGE POINTE TO NEW HEIGHTS Neighborhood pub ownership group sees success and reinvests in community

ICTOR I A – T he Gorge Pointe Pub’s one-of-akind ow nersh ip group has enabled it to be successful in the challenging and highly competitive food and beverage industry. B a c k i n 2 0 0 6, C h a r t e r e d Accou nta nt Tom Burley, i ndu st r y vetera n M ike Joss, l a w y e r Ja m e s L e g h , ro o fe r Randy Bosma, contractor John Considine, and serial entrepreneur Glenn McNaughton, purchased the Pub and transformed it into the community fixture it is today. “The common element with each of u s i s pa ssion,” says Bu rley. “T h is sector is ver y challenging to do well in, but the team we have in place is dedicated to seeing the business thrive. We really love the Pub, it’s environment and the culture we’ve been able to develop, its been an incredible process to be a part of. “Each owner brings a compl i menta r y sk i l lset to t he table that has enabled us to

Gorge Pointe Pub partners on the summit of Mt. Garibaldi, from left to right standing: John Considine, Tom Burley, Randy Bosma, and in front: Jim Legh

“Each owner brings a complimentary skillset to the table that has enabled us to be successful.” TOM BURLEY

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b e s u c c e s s f u l . I ’ve wo rk e d with a number of hospitality businesses in the past, and I k now wh at it ta kes to m a ke them work. We all learn from each ot her, feed of f of each ot her, a nd p u sh e a ch ot her to g row the busi ness a nd be better. I f there’s a new idea or direction we want to go in, one of us is going to be able to offer insight that’s backed by experience.” Joss adds, “I have worked all throughout BC in hospitality, for brands of all sizes, and I’ve ow ned a nu mber of my ow n operations. Ever y th i ng I’ve l e a r n e d o v e r t h e y e a rs h a s helped i n some way to ma ke Gorge Pointe a success.” Much of the ownership group has known each other since 1985, with their mutual con nection bei ng mou nta i n climbing. Together, they have cl i m b e d i n Sout h A mer ic a , Europe, Mexico, Russia, Nepal and the notorious Mount Kilimanjaro. One of the walls within the Pub features pictu res of thei r adventu res throughout the world. SEE DIVERSE OWNERSHIP GROUP | PAGE 27

Gorge Pointe Pub patrons enjoying a meal and beverage

A Gorge Pointe Pub meal plated by Chef Rod Gordon

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The Gorge Pointe Pub ownership group’s famous Climbing Wall

A view inside the Gorge Pointe Pub

DIVERSE OWNERSHIP GROUP CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26

A contributor to Gorge Pointe’s success and longevity has been its willingness to adapt to economic, legislative and industry shifts. “We’ve really made a point of adjust i ng ou r focus to a l ig n w it h t he cha nges i n the marketplace,” says Joss. “T he sector a nd economy have sh i fted over the yea rs, and we’ve made sure to ident i f y t he pr ior it ies for ou r

customers, and provide them with the experience and environment they’re looking for. “T h i ngs l i ke mu sic bi ngo, n e w h i g h d e f i n i t i o n T Vs , the NHL Centre Ice package a nd even a n up com i n g N FL c o-p ro m o t i o n p a r t n e r s h i p with Phillips Brewing, are all examples of how we’re being proactive about creati ng a n attractive atmosphere for our guests.” Compl i ment i n g t he P u b’s c o m m i t m e n t to d e l i v e r i n g a u n i q u e e x p e r i e n c e to i t s

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c u s t o m e r s i s t h e fo o d a n d beverages it serves. “One of the first things we d id when we to ok over wa s to improve the quality of the food,” says Burley. “It’s vital in this sector to have quality in that area, and a big part of our achievements to date have been as a resu lt of br i ng i ng o n C h e f R o d G o r d o n . H e ’s really focused on sourcing as ma ny i ng red ients loca l ly as possible, and the results have been outstanding. “I bel ieve we sta nd shou lder-to-shoulder with the best pubs in town for our food, and Chef Gordon is the reason for that. We also pride ourselves on hav i ng a n ex tensive beer menu, including options from big brands all the way to local craft breweries. It’s really important to us to support loca l busi nesses as much as possible.” G orge Poi nte ser ves products from Ph i l l ips Brew i ng, Lighthouse Brewing, Vancouver Island Brewery, Driftwood Brewery, Hoyne Brewing, Category 12 Brewing and Red Arrow Brewing, among others. Giving back to the community is ver y i mpor ta nt to t he www.DraughtWISE.com

Pub’s ownership team. T hey contribute annually to a wide variety of minor sports teams and associations, school programs, safety book initiatives, t he G orge Water way Action Society, and offer a 10 per cent ‘u n i for m’ d i scou nt to Ca nadian Forces members. Ever y Satu rd ay n ig ht features a meat draw with proceeds going to SportAbility. T he P ub a l so sh a res st rong ties with the Westshore Velox Rugby Football Club, of which Mike Joss is an active member. “We give until it hurts,” he says. “We’re going to do our best to help out anyone who k nocks on ou r door. Each of t he ow ners a re c om mu n it y g uys, we have deep roots i n the com mu n ity a nd support the area as much as we can.” B u rl e y a d d s , “ B e c a u s e o f where we’re located, the loca l env i ron ment is rea l ly i mp or ta nt to u s, a nd we’ve b e en q u ite proa c t ive a b out supporting initiatives like the Waterway Society. Last year we l a u n c h e d a f u n d ra i s i n g ca mpa ig n w it h Ocean R iver Sports & Adventures that was a big hit. It’s a point of pride fo r u s to c o n t r i b u te to t h e

community that supports us.” T he 219-seat location employs 40 staff, and features a flexible layout that can be altered to accommodate groups of 20 or more. Chef Gordon is also available to develop customized menu options. www.gorgepointepub.com

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BUS LINE SHOWS BEST OF CITY Charter and tour options showcase city for tourists and locals

ICTOR I A - CVS Tours sa les a nd ma rketi ng m a n a ge r Tom T ucke r keeps hearing the same question from passengers: “W hy didn’t we budget more time in Victoria?” There is, after all, a lot to see in the city, from Butchart Gardens to Craigdarroch Castle. Tucker said that most people, once they get started on a CVS tour, want to keep going. “It’s a beautiful city,” he said. “Our drivers offer live commentary and make the various tours interactive, exciting and informative.” He added that most of the CVS Tours’ drivers are history buffs that have worked for the local transit authority, “They know the region and can offer a unique collection of stories about landmarks and local urban legends, plus they will gladly answer questions.” CVS Tours, a subsidiary company of Western Stevedoring, has been in operation since 2007, providing charter and cruise ship services and sightseeing tours. In addition, as a founding member of the Victoria Cruise Tourism Partnership, it is the exclusive shuttle service provider for the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority. “We offer very competitive point to point or scheduled services,” Tucker said. “Our charters can take groups on tours around the city, the Island or BC and even across Canada” He added that tours and charters cater to small or large groups using modern, high tech, and comfortable coaches. “Our fleet includes 16 buses, from an 11 passenger Mercedes Sprint to an 80 passenger opentop double decker.”

Tom Tucker has been in the tourism industry for more than 23 years Double decker buses, a wellknown feature in Victoria, are popular transportation options for both locals and tourists. CVS operates both the open-top and enclosed models for a bird’s eye view of the city. “T he double deckers fit up to 80 passengers, so are a cost savings for transporting larger groups, like schools or office staff. They’re great for shuttling groups to special events like conferences, golf trips or wine testing.” He added that all of CVS buses are modern, are kept clean and well maintained and offer comfort and convenience, complimentary WIFI, special needs entry and seating, reclining seats, extra leg room, air conditioning, and higher floors for a panoramic view. Tucker said that the buses also have state-of-the-art communications equipment and on-board GPS for monitoring and regulating performance and location in real time. He also said that some of the CVS coaches use bio-diesel, a more environmentally friendly fuel, and have improved emission control. “Our double decker coaches are the cream-of-the-crop when it comes to reducing diesel particulates. They are Enviro 400 and 500 and use a selective catalytic reduction system that lowers emissions significantly.” R eg u l a r m a i nten a nc e a nd preventative care is provided by BMT Group Fleet Maintenance, a locally owned and operated facility located in Sidney that is backed by over 50 years

Locals and tourists enjoy informative and entertaining live commentary. The open top double decker buses give a bird’s eye view of Victoria of combined experience in the industry. Tucker added that maintenance is what makes CVS reliable and safe on a daily basis, but it’s the drivers that ensure passengers get where they are going informed, inspired, on time and excited about each part of their trip. “Our drivers have been handp i c k e d fo r e x p e r i e n c e a n d knowledge of the city. We follow strict g uidelines for the number of hours they are on the road and each one is well versed and trained for special needs clients.” CVS offers a variety of tours to suit any time frame, interest or age group. As Butchart Gardens is a favourite tour destination, CVS has made it easy for passengers to choose how long they stay. “People get to the gardens and want to spend a longer time. They can use their ticket for any of our scheduled trips and don’t have to worry about finishing up by a certain time.” One of the newest tours has passengers enjoying the highlights of the city, including a guided tour of Craigdarroch Castle and exclusive photo stops at Mount Tolmie Lookout and

Oak Bay Marina. Sightseeing from the cruise ship terminal can also include Butterfly Gardens, Church & State Winery, Victoria’s Chinatown, Sidney by the Sea, or a sunset city tour. Many of these destinations can be combined with an added specialty lunch or dinner. “Our general manager, Gary Gale, is always trying to be innovative with our tour packages,” Tucker said. “We listen to what our passengers have to say and build tours around their

requests.” He added that CVS works with both the cruise ships and hotels to organize the best tour packages and events possible for their clients, but it isn’t just tourists CVS is catering to. “We’re seeing more local passengers enjoying our services, getting to know their city, and rediscovering its charm and history.” CVS Tours is at 185 Dallas Rd. in Victoria www.cvstours.com

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SEPTEMBER 2015

ISLAND COMPANY GOES NATIONAL AND KEEPS LOCAL TIES A business can get the Business consultant sees potential and buys into company

least expensive signage, but if it doesn’t work well, it has a detrimental effect

I C T O R I A - Fo r R ya n Shepherd, partner, Landmark Signs, getting and installing the right sign is the most valuable and cost effective advertising tool for any business. “You ca n spend $5,000 on a countertop for your store; it looks good but it doesn’t generate business,” he said. “ Spend $5,000 or more on an illuminated sign and it not only shows people where you are, it brings them into your business.” Shepherd added that the quality of the product is even more important. “A business can get the least ex pen sive sig n age, but i f it doesn’t work well, it has a detrimental effect on how the business is perceived.” Founded by Dave Cunningham, Landmark Signs has been serving Vancouver Island since 1997. It specializes in both illuminated and non-illuminated signage and has a growing list of corporate clientele. Shepherd joined the team in 2009 and brought with him his years of experience in business consulting and banking. “Dave hired me as a consultant to help grow the business,” he said adding that after working with Cunningham he saw the business potential and opted for buying in, becoming a partner and acting as general manager. “Today, we’re the largest illuminated manufacturing operation on the island, with a local and national reputation for quality and consistency,” Shepherd said. “We have strong corporate accounts and can provide service right to Prince Edward Island.” With its 14,000 sq ft facility a nd weld i ng /meta l fabrication shop, wide format plotters/printers, LED technology,

on how the business is perceived RYAN SHEPHERD, PARTNER LANDMARK SIGNS

Dave Cunningham initially hired Ryan Shepherd as a consultant state-of-the-art paint booth, large scale CNC router and custom neon fabrication, Shepherd said Landmark’s staff can handle any major job from initial concept to design, delivery, installation and after-care servicing. “ We h ave a r t i s t s on s t a f f that can take a sketch on paper through the art and design process. We also take care of permits and engineering and any building that needs to be done before the installation.” He said part of the success in growing the business was the relationship created with large corporate franchises starting with Lordco Auto Parts in 2001. He added that it was Landmark’s ability to provide full service that allowed it to acquire corporate business. “We have the staff, experience, facilities and expertise to cater to large orders from idea to the finished and installed product.” Getting and keeping the right people was key to being able to handle these large jobs, Shepherd said. “We have 35 employees. Most came with years of experience and all brought the knowledge and skills we needed to do large and small scale jobs.” He added that one of the

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customers on time,” Shepherd said, adding that, from the initial contact, highly trained sales reps work closely with the client, determining their needs and wants and finding the best signage solution. They then communicate those specifications to the build and installation team. Shepherd said that this coordinated team effort produces superior products like the pylon sign it created for Lordco Auto Parts, in the shape of a piston, or larger jobs like manufacturing and installing the signs for Telus. “That type of installation takes specialized expertise. Some of our installers have 20 years of experience and the skills to get those large jobs done right.” Most of the illuminated signage Landmark installs uses LED technology. However, it also builds, installs and maintains neon signage. “It’s more expensive to operate but you can’t beat the beautiful look for grabbing attention,” he said. He added that in Landmark’s special 400 sq ft neon facility, the handcrafted and unique signs, using glass tube and gas technology, can produce over 50 brilliant colours. Although the majority of Landmark’s work is in illuminated signs like channel letters, electronic displays, pylon signs, digital printing, fascia and projecting, it also produces non-illuminated signage. “Currently, we’re installing over 700 aluminum signs for a large corporate client,” Shepherd said. Non-illuminated signs can be made for different applications such as banners, wayfinding, construction sites, wall-mounted and window graphics and can be made with a variety of products such as aluminum, PVC, coropl a st, wo o d a nd v i nyl. Non-illuminated signs can be mounted on the exterior of a store or office front or on interior walls. Landmark Sign is at 1250 Glenshire Drive in Victoria. www.landmarksign.net

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SEPTEMBER 2015

SIDING COMPANY HAS BEEN SERVING VANCOUVER ISLAND FOR TWO DECADES H & R Exterior Finish has evolved and embraced change in the siding industry throughout its 20 years in business

ICTORIA – A successful melding of timeless artistic expression with state of the art energy efficient functionality, Building Science is the design and construction of structures that take into effect the impact of naturally occurring physical phenomena – a process that makes buildings more livable and efficient. For Victoria’s H & R Exterior Finish, Building Envelope is a key element of the services it has been providing its customers across Vancouver Island for more than 20 years. Launched in 1995, H & R Exterior Finish began its corporate life as a Victoria-based stucco contracting company. The origins of the “H&R” name began two decades ago when Hans Pedersen and Rick Hood formed what would become a very successful business partnership. Hans and Rick had worked together previously for a local stucco company and when the industry

H & R Exterior Finish has carried out hundreds of projects since 1995, both residential and commercial jobs, such as the Gorge Hill development hit hard times in the mid 1990’s, they decided to form their own company, H & R Exterior Finish Ltd. Rick stated, “We started out with just the two of us doing stucco

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SEPTEMBER 2015

A growing and expanding business, this recent group photo showcases only some of the company’s many employees

SIDING COMPANY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 30

employees, plus expanded the existing stucco business to include multi-residential buildings and exterior remediation.” When Hans retired seven years ago, Rick joined forces with a

new partner Mitch Laporte. With Mitch’s extensive background of 20 years in project management and Rick’s technical expertise in stucco cladding industry, they forged a partnership that continued to expand the business, diversifying the company to include commercial work and larger scale projects.

Mitch said “We’ve grown the business quite a bit from its inception. We focus on being diversified in all sectors of the cladding business. We have expanded the company from being mainly a stucco contractor to include hardie and wood SEE SIDING COMPANY | PAGE 32

Not one to forget its corporate roots, H & R continues to service the single family residential market including this beautiful home on Ripon Road

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32 SIDING COMPANY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 31

siding, metal cladding and specialized-paneling systems.” With the advent of rain screen cladding systems during the past 10 years, H & R evolved its approach in cladding to meet changing Building Code requirements. Rain screen is basically a wall cavity that provides a capillary break between the exterior sheathing and finish cladding on a building. “We are working on more elaborate rain screen building envelopes involving additional thermal insulations and thermally broken systems, in particular in the residential industry. Energy efficiency is becoming more and more a priority for clients. A lot of it is driven by recent Building Code updates, resulting in more emphasis on increasing exterior thermal insulations and eliminating thermal bridging,” explained Mitch. An exterior finish that is experiencing a type of resurgence in popularity is EIFS (Exterior Insulation Finish Systems). EIFS cladding system consist of foam insulation applied to exterior walls with a rain screen cavity for drainage coupled with an acrylic stucco finish on the exterior face. “Primarily utilized in the commercial retail malls, we’re starting to see a lot more interest in this type of exterior cladding in all sectors of the industry,” Mitch explained. While expanding significantly into commercial and multi residential projects, Rick stresses the company has not forgotten its residential roots. “We pride ourselves on being as diverse as possible, so we do both residential and commercial projects. We don’t want to limit our options. Certain parts of the industry might be busier, more active than others. It is important to stay diversified. So we still do a lot of single detached housing.” While H & R is based in Victoria, the company has worked on projects right across Vancouver Island. “We do a lot of our work south of the Malahat, but have completed a number of projects up Island as far north as Courtenay and on the Mainland in Powell River. Examples of projects include the Walmart Department Store in Cowichan, London Drugs and the Village Greens in Duncan, the new Canadian Tire in Nanaimo, the Lazy Boy in Courtenay and a High School and Shoppers Drug Mart in Powell River,” Rick explained. “Closer to home, we’ve worked on completing the stucco and wood cladding for Oak Bay Beach Hotel, Delta Hotel’s exterior remediation and the more recent phases of Railyards residential project and Station Street apartments in Langford. Some of our current projects underway include the cladding remediation for the Lord Harley Apartments, remediation on the Grand Pacific Hotel, the new Holiday Inn Hotel and Pacific View residential Condominium project both located in Colwood.” H & R credits much of its growth to its very loyal client base. With an

SEPTEMBER 2015

“We have expanded from being a stucco contractor to include hardie and wood siding, metal cladding and specializedpaneling systems.”

expanding client base, and a willingness to embrace the latest techniques and construction systems, H & R is eagerly facing the future. “We’re still creating more growth for the company. We have a great business plan with the expectation for further growth over the years to come. Of course we’re driven by the opportunities offered by the marketplace,” Mitch said. Above all, H & R Exterior takes justified pride in creating a desirable environment for its employees to grow within the organization, while expanding their skill levels. Rick expresses great satisfaction in building a strong team of loyal employees creating a genuine “family environment.” A real testament to this philosophy is the fact H & R currently employs many employees with more than 15 years’ service with the company! H & R Exterior also benefits from the addition of five second generation employees who are currently working for the company. “We are very proud of our employees and credit them as being the strength of the company,” Rick said. “In the last year we’ve seen a huge increase in volumes of construction and also quite a diversified range of construction projects. Residential construction has come back in the Victoria area in a big way during the last six months,” Mitch said. “Moving forward, we want to continue taking on new and bigger challenges the industry has to offer. We will endeavor to be as competitive as we can be in the industry and desire to continue to grow according to our business plan into the future.” www.hrexteriors.ca

Large scale retail projects, such as the Cowichan Walmart, are just some of the many commercial assignments completed by H & R

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WHO IS SUING WHOM

SEPTEMBER 2015

WHO IS SUING WHOM The contents of Who’s Suing Whom is provided by a third-party resource and is accurate according to public court documents. Some of these cases may have been resolved by publication date. DEFENDANT 0827259 BC LTD 104-9710 2nd St, Sidney, BC PLAINTIFF Victoria Air Maintenance Ltd CLAIM $18,616 DEFENDANT A M Excavating Ltd 906 Island Hwy, Campbell River, BC PLAINTIFF Finning (Canada) CLAIM $30,887 DEFENDANT Big Bear Handyman Services 2243 Amelia Ave, Sidney, BC PLAINTIFF WALKER, Ian CLAIM $6,252 DEFENDANT Current Environmental 244E 4th St, Courtenay, BC PLAINTIFF Hubbard, Martin CLAIM $23,202

DEFENDANT

For Sale By Owner Inc 2500-10123 99th Ave, Edmonton, AB PLAINTIFF 0972616 BC LTD CLAIM $ 10,952

Great Pacific Mortgage & Investments Ltd 101-835 View St, Victoria, BC EY Holdings Ltd CLAIM $3,726,050

Jakes Roofing Ltd 1077 Bowlby St, Errington, BC PLAINTIFF Walmsley, Celeste CLAIM $15,206

Strong Properties Inc 1-505 Fisgard St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Mirosevic, Dal CLAIM $13,958

DEFENDANT Forsite Construction Inc 9259 Main St, Chilliwack, BC PLAINTIFF Aggressive Excavating Ltd CLAIM $ 71,102

DEFENDANT Greyhawk Forest Products 109-2602 Mt Lehman Rd, Abbotsford, BC PLAINTIFF Trico Transportation Inc CLAIM $16,426

DEFENDANT Jubilee Self Storage Ltd 101-990 Cedar St, Campbell River, BC PLAINTIFF Rick Mosier Contracting Ltd CLAIM $29,629

DEFENDANT Trademark International Marketing Inc 20665 93rd Ave, Langley, BC PLAINTIFF Ganges Floor Coverings Ltd CLAIM $18,696

DEFENDANT Ingram Construction 886 Terrien Way, Parksville, BC PLAINTIFF Walmsley, Celeste CLAIM $15,206

DEFENDANT Maximilian Huxley Construction Ltd 7th Floor 1175 Douglas St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Colonial Countertops Ltd CLAIM $10,280

DEFENDANT Victoria Tank Service Ltd 2742 Lakehurst Dr, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Freeman, John CLAIM $5,857

DEFENDANT From The Sea Transport Ltd 201-467 Cumberland RD, Courtenay, BC PLAINTIFF RBS Seafood Harvesting Ltd CLAIM $19,617 DEFENDANT Georgia Straight Development Ltd 2868 Turnbull Rd, Qualicum, BC PLAINTIFF Pacific Home Warranty Insurance Services Inc CLAIM $22,303 DEFENDANT Glacier Bay Contracting Ltd 3091 Westridge Pl, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Alberni District Cooperative Association CLAIM $26,585

DEFENDANT Inland Kenworth Ltd 2365 Northfield Rd, Nanaimo, BC PLAINTIFF T Shepherd Trucking CLAIM $17,297 DEFENDANT Island Reinforcing Ltd 301-830 Shamrock St, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Owners Strata Plan VIS3852 CLAIM $8,022

DEFENDANT Pacific Rim Exteriors Ltd 3248 Puffin Pl, Victoria, BC PLAINTIFF Evergreen Disposal Ltd CLAIM $20,162

DEFENDANT Worel Renovations 15474 Victoria Ave, White Rock, BC PLAINTIFF Milford, Linda CLAIM $7,778

DEFENDANT Rockwell Management Inc 101-1075 Jervis St, Vancouver BC PLAINTIFF 0925322 BC LTD CLAIM $13,344

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SEPTEMBER 2015

PENINSULA TOWING SERVING THE SOUTH ISLAND FOR 40 YEARS “Constantly you just never know what might

Since being founded in 1975 Peninsula Towing has expanded its staff, fleet and experience to become one of the leaders in the region’s towing industry

be around the next corner from moment to moment.”

ICTORIA – With a corporate history spanning four decades and involving four changes of ownership, Peninsula Towing has evolved and grown over the years to become one of the main providers of towing services on the Saanich Peninsula and all points across the entire South Island.“I’ve had the business for 25 years, I’m actually the fourth owner of Peninsula Towing but I’m the longest standing owner. So in 40 years there have been four owners, but for 25 of those years I’ve been at the helm,” explained Peninsula’s current owner Don Affleck. In Affleck’s case it was a situation where an employee saw an opportunity and purchased the company where they had been working. “I purchased the

Congratulations Peninsula Towing! It has been a true pleasure dealing with Don and Tamara over the past many years!

company in the summer of 1990. I worked for the previous owner as a mechanic in the repair shop Monday to Friday and I was towing on the weekends,” he said: “I decided in the middle of the night as I was repairing one of the two trucks to ask if they were interested in selling the business. I thought I could step out of the repair business and get into the towing side because I thought it would be a little easier on my body. I had been in a very bad motorcycle accident in 1988 so crawling around on concrete all day wasn’t a good thing.” Peninsula Towing’s founder was Gary Anderson who currently owns and operates West Coast Spill Supply. The company began in a modest way in 1975 and was originally situated at what was then the Brentwood Esso service station located at the corner of Keating and West Saanich, where the Midas Muffler outlet is today. “Throughout the entire 40 year span of the company we’ve been assisting the RCMP and the Central Saanich Police. If the police call and a vehicle has to go to the impound lot we would be the one they’d call. We’ve been buying up smaller companies in the area which in turn has enlarged our fleet. We have 12 trucks right now. We have small ones for dealing with cars and light trucks right up to big ones for semis. Basically it’s a giant tool box with something available for every application, sometimes more than one for that matter. From medium sized flatdecks to large ones depending on our application.” SEE PENINSULA TOWING | PAGE 35

HAPPY 40

Mike Affleck, age 19, has quite literally grown up in the family business. He is pictured here with the company’s 16-ton highway tractor towing rig For a layman, the image that might come to mind when thinking about a towing company would be that of a classic tow truck hooking onto the front end of a disabled vehicle. But according to Affleck, that’s only part of the story, a small part. “We move a lot of shipping containers, both loaded and unloaded. All kinds of equipment, pretty much anything you can think of. We have even moved some aircraft but don’t do it very often, mainly for insurance reasons. Of course we also do the smaller jobs, the towing of cars, trucks, motorhomes and things like that. Those jobs we handle daily. In addition to the smaller trucks and the flatdecks we have the two larger trucks to accommodate highway tractor towing,” he said. Affleck says one of the firm’s main pieces of rolling stock is a minor television celebrity in its own right. “Out of those two big rigs we have one medium sized

"Old Fashioned Service for Today's Automobile"

ANNIVERSARY!

Peninsula Towing

Thank you for being a BCAA towing partner since 1989 and for providing BCAA Members with service excellence.

Peninsula Towing’s past, present and future: Don Affleck (left) and Don’s son Mike (middle) share a joke with company founder Gary Anderson (right)

C Congratulations l i to Peninsula Towing on your 40 year anniversary

Congratulations to Don and the team at Peninsula Towing. Thank you for 40 years of great service!

9429 Canora Road, Sidney

(Located at the end of East Saanich Road)

For Roadside Assistance from BCAA, call 1.800.222.4357 or *222

(250) 656-2921 www.clairdowney.com

SEPTEMBER 2015

Peninsula’s Father and Son team work together to look after a rollover at the McTavish roundabout

Mike Affleck working with Advantage Crane recovers a fully loaded concrete truck which had the road shoulder give way beneath its weight CONTINUED FROM PAGE 34

Moving ahead, by giving back

one (16 ton) and we’ve got our 35 ton. What’s interesting is that the 35 ton is quite recognizable and the people who see it usually stop to take pictures of it when they see it rolling down the road. It’s originally off the show ‘Highway Through Hell’ we bought that truck in their first season and it appeared on the very first show. We’ve made it look a little nicer than it was on the show it was one of the original trucks used in that television program.” Aside from four decades of experience and a local reputation for fast quality work, in addition to a dozen motorized units

equipped to handle virtually any sized task, Affleck maintains the real strength of his business is the experience and dedication of his staff, many of whom have been with him for years. “We probably have 12 staff on board right now, drivers, mechanics and some office staff but often some of our mechanics are also drivers so they’ll switch back and forth, sort of Jacks of All Trades. There are three guys who are like that, who not only repair trucks but they’re also driving them. I’m one of them,” he said. “My office manager, Tamara Mahy, has been with me a long time. It’s kind of a standing joke, I own the company, but she’s the boss. She is without doubt one of

Congratulations on your 40th Anniversary!

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PENINSULA TOWING

Two company celebrities in the same shot: Tamara Mahy (Office Manager) stands next to the company’s big rig, which was featured in the TV show Highway Through Hell the most knowledgeable people in the towing industry, she’s been with me just coming up on 15 years. If you want anything organized or sent anywhere in this province she’s the lady who knows how to get it done.” Affleck says running a towing company is not a nine to five position, and is something that should only be undertaken by someone who is prepared to put in some long hours. “It’s definitely a 24 hour business. I’ve been available on my phone, in my truck for 25 years 24/7. It’s very rare that I take holidays and take off. I might scoot away for a weekend now and then but that’s pretty much about it.” One of the intangible rewards

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of operating a business like Peninsula Towing is the realization that every time a call comes in something new and most likely unexpected is about to occur. “It’s interesting, you get into the business and you think I’m going to see some interesting things and you certainly do, and then you start to see some things that you don’t expect, and then you start seeing things where you say ‘well, now I’ve seen it all’ and then something else happens! It’s such an unusual business it certainly keeps you on your toes. Constantly you just never know what might be around the next corner from moment to moment.” After more than 40 years in operation (25 under A ff leck)

Peninsula Towing has become a regional institution, a legacy that appears equally interesting to the next generation of company owners. “It is definitely a generational business. My three kids have spent their entire lives riding around in tow trucks. My oldest daughter is 21 and all they know is the towing business. My son Mike has been riding in the truck with me since being in a child carrier,” he said. “With the exception of actually getting out there and driving physically on the road he’s very, very talented because he would come out with me all the time and assist me with recoveries. The first time he ever put his hand on the controls to run the truck he was four years old (he’s been driving full sized trucks on back logging roads since he was seven). So now he’s 19 and he’s starting to step up to that role of easing the burden on his old man.” For Affleck, regardless of how large and multi-faceted his business has grown, it has never strayed from its roots, hard work and honest service. “As far as our business goes we always have been a bunch of hard working, blue collar team of guys. We have the know-how, we get it done and we’re asked sometimes to do what seems the impossible. It almost has gotten to the point that if it’s unusual ‘who you going to call?’ well they don’t even call the company they just go directly to me.”

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“Congratulating Don and his staff at Peninsula Towing for their success in assisting the local community for 40 years!” - Caroline Paterson, CPA, CGA and Sheila Henn, CPA, CA P: 250-656-7284 Suite 103 – 9710 Second St Sidney, BC V8L 3C4 admin@patersonhenn.com www.patersonhenn.com

MOVERS & SHAKERS

SEPTEMBER 2015

receiving a $2.2 million redesign this year, with completion aimed for 2017. The Capital Regional Hospital District will be donating $660,000 to the project, with the remainder of the funds being provided by the BC Ministry of Health and Island Health. The Insurance Council of British Columbia has announced the election of Brett Thibault as its chairperson for the 2015-16 term.

To get in Movers and Shakers, call Thom at 250-661-2297 or email thom@businessexaminer.net Victoria General Hospital’s current colon cancer screening unit will be

Victoria’s Tile Town is celebrating its 40th anniversary, located at 3098 Nanaimo Street. Purely Optometry Oak Bay has welcomed Dr. John Poon to its facility, located at 1964 Fort Street.

McGeachie’s Foam & Upholstery is celebrating 40 years in business, with two locations at 2103 Douglas Street, and 890 Goldstream Avenue.

Design District, has returned to TV in the new show What’s For Sale With A View, a spinoff of the network’s What’s For Sale.

BC Transit is planning a multi-million dollar investment that could see up to 112 new buses joining its fleet province-wide by 2022.

The GottaCon Convention, Victoria’s largest gaming convention, has permanently closed its doors due to a variety of reasons, including financial strain.

Jason Binab, formerly of CHEK TV’s Van Isle Windows has appointed Tom Sponarski as its new sales manager. The University of Victoria’s Gustavson School of Business will be offering a private and customized master’s degree for Telus employees beginning this fall. The new program will allow as many as 20 Telus employees to being a two-year MBA program in leadership and strategy. The US Department of Commerce will soon be imposing an 11 per cent duty on one of Catalyst Paper’s exported products to the US. Victoria-based solar company Carmanah Technologies has reported a second quarter profit of $10.3 million compared to last year. Macdonald Realty has noted that buyers with cash from mainland China accounted for 70 per cent of the firm’s single family home, condo and townhome sales of over $3 million in Vancouver for 2014. Alice Bacon and John Carswell have opened Brentwood Bay Emporium at 12-7103 West Saanich Road. The 2,000-square-foot space serves a dual purpose as both a dining destination and a place to buy artwork and gifts. Four Victoria region salmon projects are receiving a combined $42,000 from the Pacific Salmon Foundation. The initiatives funded include restoration of the Douglas Creek, the Swan Creek capital city allotment garden restoration, the Coquitz River habitat restoration, and the five-day Stewards of the Future Conference. Construction has begun on Victoria International Marina’s first, seven-metre wide custom paddle canal. Orca Spirit Adventures has been awarded silver certification from Green Tourism Canada, recognizing its sustainability efforts, which includes the purchase of a Hybrid Prius for deliveries and offering carbon-neutral whale watching and harbour tours. Sea Image Corporation is now the new agent for US-based SPI Solidification International in BC. This new partnership will give Sea Image, a retailer of safety and efficiency products and services, the exclusive rights to re-sell SPI’s line of products designed to protect the environment from oil and hydrocarbon contamination.

Lisa Jozsa Lisa Jozsa has joined The Quadra Legal Centre as its newest member of the team, located at 2750 Quadra Street in Victoria. The automotive salespeople of the month for the greater Victoria region have been announced, and include: Daniel Vosgueritchian of Harris Auto; Colin Gawreletz of Jim Pattison Toyota; Joe Halasz of Pacific Mazda; Frank Obrien of Wheaton; David Vollet of Audi Autohaus; Joshua Driver of Volkswagen Victoria; Tyson Johnson of Porsche Centre; David Bercovitz of Three Point Motors; Matthew Traynor of BMW Victoria; Pierre Toulouse of Volvo; Frank Burgaretta of Wille Dodge; Connie Wilde of Jenner; Felipe Prado of Campus Honda; Andrew Offord of Campus Infinite; Nelson Cran of Graham KIA; Emir Blanco of Campus Nissan; Bob Gardner of Saunders Subaru; Nick Lee of Campus Acura. Standard Furniture, located at 758 Cloverdale Avenue, is celebrating its 103rd anniversary this year. The Ramsay Group has officially closed for business after 112 years in operation, liquidating its assets and selling its land and buildings at its former 2066 Henry Avenue location. Construction is underway at the University of Victoria’s Continuing Studies Building, which will be receiving an addition and renovation to its current structure. Illumina, a San Diego-based company that builds genetic sequencing machines, will soon acquire Saanichbased GenoLogics, which develops laboratory-information software at the Vancouver Island Technology Park. With the closure of a paper mill in Howe Sound, the Catalyst mill in Crofton now remains the last paper mill in BC. Victoria’s Codename Entertainment has reached the top of the list for its new game, Crusaders of the Lost Idols, on Kongregate.com.

South Island Reman, a division of Western Forest Products in Chemainus, has announced a permanent shut down of that operation, effective by the end of July. The Cowichan Valley Regional District and United Steel Workers Local 1-1937 have reached an agreement in principle in the current labour dispute. The Cowichan Valley’s Beate WeberSchuerholz has been named a recipient of the 2015 Gothenburg Award for Sustainable Development.

MOVERS & SHAKERS

SEPTEMBER 2015

Joe Natale, President and Chief Executive of Telus Corp., abruptly resigned from his position, with Darren Entwistle retaking the reins of the company in his place. The company’s board has expressed that its CEO should reside in Western Canada, which Natale had informed would not work with his family. Google is in the process of remaking its corporate structure and changing its name to Alphabet. The company’s main search business will remain under the Google name, but as a subsidiary of Alphabet. Conrad Nyren has put forward a proposal to build a five-storey mixed-use building in Chinatown, to be called the Kunju Residences, located on a vacant lot at 613 Herald Street.

Hobson woodworks, Homewood Constructors Ltd., James’ Joinery Ltd., Jason Good Custom Cabinets, Jason Powell Construction, Jenny Martin Design, KB Design, Limona Group, Maximilian Huxley Construction, Metropolitan Capital Partners, Mike Graham Construction, Oak Bay Construction (1989) Ltd., Parsi Development Ltd., Patterson & Kaercher Construction Ltd., R. Parsons Construction Ltd., Ryan Hoyt Designs, Seba Construction Ltd., South Shore Cabinetry, Terry Johal Developments Ltd., The Sky Is The Limit Design, Thomas Philips Woodworking, Three Sixty Degree Construction Ltd., Urban Core Ventures, Verity Construction Ltd., Victoria Design Group, and Zebra Design. Telus has announced the completion of a $14-million fibre-optic network on northern Vancouver Island, giving residents, businesses, health care facilities and schools faster Internet and data connections.

DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse has opened its doors for business in the Island Home Centre in Saanich. This is British Columbia’s first location from the US retailer.

Victoria Harbour Ferry has added a stop at Ogden Point’s Breakwater Barge to its list of destinations, which will be called James Bay Quay. The former location of League Assets at 710 Redbrick Avenue is now under the ownership of businessmen Tim Quocksister and Ian Laing. The pair purchased the building for $4.5 million, with the most recent assessment set at $6.09 million.

David Osland Cunningham & Rivard Appraisals Ltd. has announced the addition of David Osland to its team.

The Victoria Residential Builders Association is celebrating its 75th anniversary as an independent, non-profit society. The association has also announced the finalists of its 2015 CARE Awards, which includes: Abstract Developments, Aplomado Developments, Aryze Developments, Bowcey Construction Ltd, Christopher Developments, Clarkston Construction, Coast Prestige Homes, Concert Real Estate Corporation, Denford Construction Management Ltd., Falcon Heights Contracting, Gary Sandhu Developments Ltd., Gorter Construction Ltd., GT Mann Contracting Ltd.,

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Fanny’s Cultured Cow Products Ltd. has introduced a new gum removal service, unique to its company. The Quamichan Inn, located at 1478 Maple Bay Road in Duncan, is under new ownership and management.

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Excellent FrameWorks in Duncan is celebrating its 30th anniversary, and is now under the new ownership of Suzan Kostiuck.

Sushi Island is celebrating its second anniversary this year, located at #105-1633 Hillside Avenue.

Mike Russell has left policing after 11 years to become the media and public relations advisor at BC Transit.

Robert E Reynolds Certified Group Benefits Advisor (GBA), Certified Financial Planner® rob@rerinvest.ca

The University of Victoria is one of four Canadian universities to receive a share of $30 million for advanced computer research facilities. Simon Fraser University, the University of Toronto and the University of Waterloo were also included in the funding.

The Greater Victoria Public Library has begun public consultation to potentially open a new library branch in James Bay.

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The first employee of Clipper Navigation, Janis Smith, is leaving the company after 30 years. Smith was the company’s vice-president of sales and marketing, but will be leaving the company effective at the end of October.

Alberta Court of Appeal Justice Russell Brown is taking over for the retiring Justice Marshall Rothstein as the newest Supreme Court justice. Brown formerly practiced in Victoria as a member of Carfra & Lawton.

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recognized standards of knowledge, skills, abilities and ethics.

The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. has reported that Greater Victoria homebuilders have almost doubled their pace over the first seven months of the year, with 1,170 homes started so far this year, up from 663 through the end of July 2014.

Two Island eateries are in the running for Air Canada enRoute magazine’s contest to pick the top 10 new restaurants in the country. Contesting is Wild Mountain Food and Drink in Sooke, and Pilgrimme on Galiano Island.

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Gerry Laing of Big Bad John’s Hillbilly Bar in the Strathcona Hotel has been named the Victoria Hospitality Award Winner for April 2015. Tastes of India in Sooke is now offering personal cooking lessons in Victoria as well as Sooke. They are now located at 6309 Sooke Road at the Sooke River Hotel. www. tastesofindiainsooke.com Salish Sea Technologies is celebrating their 5th year in business. New businesses in Sooke include: Sooke Water Inc. P&D’s Closet, and Sooke Family Resource Society. Barb’s Barber Shop is celebrating their 30th year in business.

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OPINION

SEPTEMBER 2015 A division of Invest Northwest Publishing Ltd. Head Office 200-3060 Cedar Hill Road, Victoria V8T 3J5 Ph: 1.250.661.2297 Fax: 1.250.642.2870 Toll free: 1.866.758.2684 Website: www.businessexaminer.ca

PUBLISHER/EDITOR | Lise MacDonald, lise@businessexaminer.ca SALES | Thom Klos –thom@businessexaminer.ca, Josh Higgins – josh@businessexaminer.ca, Joanne Iormetti – joanne@businessexaminer.ca WRITERS | Goody Niosi, Julia MacDonald, Beth Hendry-Yim, John MacDonald, David Holmes WEBSITE | John MacDonald

MENTORS PROVIDE VALUABLE INPUT AND INSIGHT ON THE ROAD TO SUCCESS Businesses needs premises, so doesn’t it make sense - and cents - to have your company own the building and MARK MACDONALD

n essential ingredient in the recipe to success is hard work. Over the years, I’ve interviewed many business owners, and hard work is a common theme for every one of them. So, too, are mentors, as in the people who have encouraged them to reach out and be the best they can be. Here are some of the inspirational quotes and examples that these accomplished individuals have shared with me, when I asked them not only about their secrets to success, but about the people who helped them get there. - “Never get greedy. If you’re making your margin, don’t try to make more and more from

property it needs to operate? the same customer, or they’ll go somewhere else.” - On the book “T h i n k a nd Grow Rich” by Napoleon Hill, one friend gleaned this: “A lot of people hate rich people. Therefore, they’re doomed to be poor the rest of their life. Do you know why? Because you can’t become what you hate, and if you became rich, you’d hate yourself. If you want to be rich, find out what rich people do.” - “The number one rule in business is own the dirt”, as in: buy real estate. Businesses need premises, so doesn’t it make sense – and cents – to have your company own the

building and property it needs to operate? At the very least, when it comes time to sell or retire, that real estate could be paid for, and can produce revenue for you many years in the future. - Own the dirt. One gentleman shared how his mother told him when he was a teenager that he was going to “buy a lot”. As in, purchase a piece of property, and pay for it with his paper route money. A lthough he d id n’t u nderstand why at the time, he wisely heeded his mother’s advice (not sure if that was an option), and he says that over the years, that initial piece of property has been re-mortgaged several different times for other transactions as he expanded his business holdings. - “Never get emotionally attached to your assets”. - “Don’t be afraid of hiring people who are smarter than you. Just keep an eye on them.: He was also inspired by the words of Jimmy Pattison, who told him: “The toughest part of his life’s work has been driving the mediocrity out of his organization.” - Join successful organizations

like the Chamber and Rotary. Filled with experienced, successful individuals, they offer wonderful opportunities to glean and learn. “I went to Rotary to be a sponge and absorb information from them. It’s been a great group to belong to,” noted a very successful businesswoman. A not her gent lem a n p ut it this way, as a mentor told him: “You’ve got to join Rotary. I said I didn’t have time, and he said ‘you can’t afford to not have time for Rotary. Trust me on this.’ I spent quite a few years in Rotary. Can you imagine what the community would be like without groups like that?” - “Don’t tell people what you’re going to do. Show them.” “It’s a pretty basic statement, but it kind of had a lot of impact because it represented who he was,” he says. “T hat was powerful to me. I’m surprised how many times I’ve told that to people over the years, and kept myself in check with it.” - The influence of parents. Parents are often listed as key motivators and inspirers, but this one man found that in a different

way. His dad inspired him because “I heard him talk about either buying another home as an investment property. I’ve often thought about the difference it would have made in his life if he did it, because he didn’t do it. “I am highly motivated because of that,” he adds. “My dad believed in the concept, wanted to do it, but for whatever reason, he didn’t do it. Choices are so important, and there are long-term impacts for action or inaction. Until you do something, it’s just talk. Action is the only thing that is going to make it happen. - Ta k e t i m e to t h i n k a n d strategize. One man spoke warmly of a boss he served for 25 years. “He taught me how to think and strategize in business. I’d be working away in the office, and he’d be just sitting there, thinking. His ability to see the forward was amazing. When the 1981 crash came, he was ready for it. He could see it coming.” All of these suggestions, and many more, offer “freebies” that make the path to success a little bit clearer.

PIPELINES ARE THE SAFEST WAY TO SHIP OIL

Rail is more than 4.5 times more likely to experience a spill But perhaps the most telling statistic regarding pipeline safety is that 99 per cent of pipeline occurrences from 2003 to 2013 didn’t damage the

KEN GREEN

ragic accidents, such as the recent rupture of a Nexen oilsands pipeline southeast of Fort McMurray, should not detract from the fact that pipelines are the safest way to transport oil and gas. Such accidents are unfortunate and regrettable. This recent accident has stoked concerns, particularly from pipeline opponents, about the safety of oil and gas pipelines. Oil and gas pipelines, however, are a critical piece of Canada’s energy infrastructure, moving more than 2.4 billion barrels of oil and gas in 2013 alone. A recent Fraser Institute study used data from govern ment

environment

sources to determine whether pipelines or rail were safer for transporting oil and gas. The study focused on the number of occurrences or accidents per million barrels of oil and gas transported. The result was clear. Both rail and pipelines are quite safe, but pipelines are without a doubt the safest way to transport oil and gas. Fewer incidents In every year from 2003 to 2013, pipel i nes ex perienced fewer occurrences per million barrels of oil equivalent transported than did rail. Overall in this period, rail experienced 0.227 occurrences per million barrels of oil equivalent transported compared to 0.049 for pipelines. This means that rail is more than 4.5 times more likely to experience an occurrence. A d d i t i o n a l d a t a o n p i p eline safety from the national Transportation Safety Board a lso ca l ls i nto quest ion t he often worst-case scenario rhetoric that surrounds pipeline debates. Consider that 73 per

cent of pipeline occurrences result in spills of less than one square metre, and 16 per cent of occurrences result in no spill whatsoever. The vast majority of pipeline occurrences - more than 80 per cent - also don’t occur in the actual line pipe. Rather, they happen in facilities that are more likely to have secondary containment mechanisms and procedures. But perhaps the most telling statistic regarding pipeline safety is that 99 per cent of pipeline occurrences from 2003 to 2013 didn’t damage the environment. Ignoring the facts Debates about pipeline expansion often ignore these realities. But make no mistake, transporting oil and gas by rail has been booming in the absence of new pipelines. According to the Energy Information Administration, annual exports of oil by rail to the United States in 2010 amounted to a measly 42,000 barrels of oil. Fast forward five years to 2014 and that number spiked to 42 million barrels of oil. T hese

numbers will continue to rise if new pipelines are not built. So while pipelines may attract much of the attention, rail too is not without its share of accidents. A string of events this year led to new regulations, which may provide little additional benefit, seeing as many of the newly required safety measures existed before the Lac-Mégantic tragedy. In both Canada and the United States, rising oil and natural gas production necessitates the expansion of our transportation capacity. Yet proposed pipelines linger in regulatory limbo, facing stiff opposition and little political support, best exemplified by the premiers national energy strategy, which managed to barely gloss over Canada’s pipeline conundrum. On the mode of transport, the choice is clear. It should be the safer one - pipelines. Kenneth P. Green and Taylor Jackson are co-authors of the Fraser Institute study Safety in the Transportation of Oil and Gas: Pipelines or Rail? Available at www.fraserinstitute.org

SUBCRIPTIONS | $45 PER YEAR (12 ISSUES), $80 FOR 2 YEARS (24 ISSUES), SUBSCRIBE ONLINE: WWW.BUSINESSEXAMINER.NET. DISTRIBUTION: FOURTH WEEK OF EACH MONTH VIA CANADA POST AD MAIL. The publisher accepts no responsibility for unsolicited submissions. The views and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the publisher. Produced and published in British Columbia. All contents copyright Business Examiner Victoria, 2014. Canadian Publications Mail Acct.: 40069240

LAW

SEPTEMBER 2015

PATENT FILING STRATEGIES FOR INVENTIONS LAW

Given the imminent public

There is not one size that fits all

disclosure, our first patent

he patent filing strategy that our office may recommend will depend upon the circumstances of the client seeking the advice and may be modified in response to changing circumstances. There is not one size that fits all. To illustrate the concept of patent filing strategy, we will describe the circumstances of one particular client. The client contacted us when a machine that he was building was nearing completion. At that stage he was not sure where there was a market for the machine and had not had an opportunity to test the machine to ensure it would work as intended. However, within a week, the machine was to be running and he was going to be putting information up on his website and contacting representatives of companies he thought might have an interest, some of which were outside of North America. We adv ised h i m that public disclosure prior to filing for a patent would result in loss of patent rights in many countries;

filing recommendation was that a series of photographs be taken of the machine and a U.S. “provisional” patent application be filed to preserve his patent rights in foreign countries only a small number of countries, including Canada, the United States and Australia, allow a patent to be filed after public disclosure has taken place. The machine was complicated and he did not have drawings. Given the imminent public disclosure, our first patent filing recommendation was that a series of photographs be taken of the machine and a U.S. “provisional” patent application be filed to preserve his patent rights in foreign countries. We advised him that he would then have up to 12 months to file further patent

Michael Cooper and Doug Thompson of ThompsonCooper LLP applications claiming priority from his first filing. Approximately 10 months later, we followed up with him to see how things were progressing with the marketing of his invention. He advised that he had sold three machines: one to Australia, one to Europe and one to the United States. He felt that he could sell more machines if he could reduce manufacturing costs, and he was exploring manufacture in China. In view of this information, our second patent filing recommendation was that an International Patent Application be filed under the Patent Cooperation Treaty (PCT).

We advised him that a PCT Patent Application would preserve his ability to obtain a patent in approximately 150 member countries for a total of 30 months, as calculated from the date of filing of the U.S. provisional patent application. We further advised him that he would receive an International Search Report with a Written Opinion that would be an indication of whether his patent application met the basic criteria for obtaining a patent (being whether the idea is the right sort of subject matter, and is both new and unobvious). At the end of 30 months, he would have to decide in which of the 150

countries he wished to pursue patent protection. The International Search Report and Written Opinion indicated that the patent application did in fact satisfy the criteria for patentability. As the 30 month deadline draws near, we have been in touch with him to determine in which countries he wishes to have “national entry” of his international patent application. Manufacturing is now taking place in China. At this stage, some major companies have shown interest in not only purchasing machines, but also purchasing his patent rights. Large companies move slowly and they are unlikely to act before 2017. Unfortunately, his deadline for filing national patent applications is sooner. In view of this information, our third patent filing recommendation is that patent filings be limited to preserve the financial resources he needs for having more machines built, while keeping alive the prospect of a sale of his patent rights to a large company in 2017. We have received instructions to complete “national entry” of his patent application in three countries, which happen to be the three countries where the large companies that have expressed interest are located.

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THOM KLOS

thom@businessexaminer.ca

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