October 21, 2015

PENINSULA

2015

BUSINESS profiles Retailers, services and people who make the Peninsula strong

SIDNEY, NORTH SAANICH & CENTRAL SAANICH

The Menu Showcases traditional Chinese Cuisine

Celebrating our 14th year in business!

Jenny, Dennis and Jason are excited to be a part of the Sidney business community. The trio have an extensive background in cooking, foodservice and business.

The traditional Chinese cuisine items featured on our ever changing buffet are popular for visitors and locals alike.

We offer a good range of menu options for Vegetarians and are happy to look after special menu requests.

We pride ourselves on providing excellent attentive service!

Lunch and Dinner Buffet 10% discount on pick up orders over $30

Wine Kitz owners Derek and Donna Finlayson, have been helping customers select the best wines to suit both occasion and budget.

With over 40 years combined experience and knowledge we proudly represent one of the most well respected wine-making retailers in Canada. We offer exceptionally friendly customer service and are locally & independently owned and operated. Our grapes are sourced from vineyards around the world & all wine making happens on premises with state of the art equipment, in a temperature controlled environment. Visit us in-store and let us assist you in creating something perfect to suit your palate!

Free delivery after 4pm

winekitzsidney.ca

(within 4 mile radius, $30 min order)

#5A-2042 Mills Road West, Sidney 250 654-0300 Tues-Fri 9am-5:30pm Sat 9:30am - 5pm Closed Sunday & Monday

Fully Licensed

778.426.3888 2500 BEACON AVE. SIDNEY

Peninsula News Review / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2015 / peninsulanewsreview.com

sidneyharbourchineserestaurant.com

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Sidney

Fresh food, friendly service, and a strong commitment to our community.

Since 1985, these have been key ingredients in our recipe for success at Thrifty Foods Sidney.

2015 has been an amazing year as we’ve embarked on renovation upgrades, introduced new programs such as the Hearth Bakery and the Pickle Sandwich Program in our Deli. Our staff continue to strive to provide the very best of Customer service! We are excited to continue building our relationship within our community, sourcing the freshest local products and supporting our new and exciting programs we pick B.C. first!

We measure our success by the tremendous loyalty we have earned from Sidney families and businesses! Thank you!

9810 Seventh Street, Sidney | Mariner’s Mall Open 7am to 10pm seven days a week

Sidney SeniorCare building a stronger community through seniors’ engagement

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s president and owner of the SeniorCare Group of Companies, Shauna Dorko has chosen to make the well being of seniors her life’s work. “With 30 years of experience in the area of home support, I guess it’s pretty obvious that I have always had a soft spot for seniors, and am a heartfelt and active advocate for them.”

Shauna’s passion to make seniors’ lives more comfortable has resulted in a 12-year, and holding strong, legacy with her award-winning agency Sidney SeniorCare (SSC). Sidney Senior DayCare & Educational Center, as well as a third location in Oak Bay soon followed. Each agency in the SeniorCare Group of Companies offers all aspects of “complete” homecare. As a private enterprise, the SeniorCare agencies are able to offer better pricing, flexibility, faster reaction time, consistency and a more diverse service offering than any other agency.

their families, introducing seniors to a wide range of businesses, programming and services offered in the community.

“These free offerings are a wonderful way to get seniors out, having some fun and engaged again with their community, says Shauna. “The campaign is also a great way to partner with and support local businesses to create awareness of what Sidney, the Saanich Peninsula and Victoria have to offer. Being able to provide for, give back to, and support our local communities is very important to our company.”

Through initiatives such as The Year of the Senior, SSC is able to provide seniors accessibility to whatever the community offers, enriching their overall quality of life. For example, SSC’s multi-year corporate partnership with Panorama Recreation offers seniors the opportunity to participate in a wide range of programming and activities that they would not otherwise be able to take advantage of.

As a Crystal Award winner for Business of the Year in 2011, winner of the Readers’ Choice Award for Favourite Senior Friendly Establishment in 2015, and winner of the Readers’ Choice Award for Favourite Seniors Health Services for the last three years in a row, Sidney SeniorCare is now the largest private home support agency on southern Vancouver Island.

In the spirit of her strong advocacy role for seniors, Shauna initiated an innovative campaign to engage seniors with their local community, designating 2015 as “The Year of the Senior”.

Every month during this calendar year, SSC has organized an exciting special event or service, free of charge for seniors and Shauna is excited to announce that service is now extending to the Gulf Islands, with the launch of Salt Spring Island SeniorCare as the first Gulf Island agency for the SeniorCare family.

“Greater understanding and support of our aging population will not only result in more appreciation and less marginalization, but will help restore seniors to their rightful position in society; a position that garners respect and admiration. This new insight will perhaps even help us to make better choices for our own lives and future legacies to come.”

The SeniorCare Group of Companies is proud to serve you with the following locations:

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A profile of local business

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s the economy on the Saanich Peninsula performing better now than it has in years?

It’s a big question. Some might say it’s a loaded question and no one in their right mind is going to say business is bad in their communities. Yet, local leaders have been tempered by the economic collapse of 2008 and afterwards and one could say their outlook today takes all of that into account.

So, even with that knowledge in the back of their minds, the mayors of Sidney, North Saanich and Central Saanich remain bullish on the state of business on the Peninsula.

Who can blame them?

There are plenty of housing and commercial projects on the go — in Sidney alone, the municipality is seeing a return of the development levels that existed prior to the crash of ‘08. In Central Saanich, projects that have been on the books since that time are being looked at again and even in North Saanich there’s a strong degree of optimism in their balanced economy.

Inside this special publication, you can find a mix of stories and advertisements from a variety of businesses serving and supporting the community. Read about how two area business owners are taking a risk and mixing things up in Brentwood Bay’s Empourium. Saanich Peninsula financial institutions talk about what it takes to start a small business and local leaders discuss the state of the economy in Central Saanich, North Saanich and Sidney — and across the Peninsula as a whole.

Enjoy the Peninsula News Review’s Business Profiles edition for 2015.

Peninsula NewsReview Review/ PENINSULA / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES / peninsulanewsreview.com Peninsula News BUSINESS PROFILES 2014 /2015 peninsulanewsreview.com

— Steven Heywood, editor

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Peninsula mayors on their local economy

Brentwood Bay store tries something new

Some guidelines on starting a small business

Chamber of Commerce tackles policy

YOUR COMMUNITY ADVOCATE For assistance with provincial programs and agencies

Smart Clothes.

Everyday Living.

9746 5th St., Sidney 250-656-1970

With our 27th Anniversary just around the corner, most of you know who we are despite a few name changes. If you have not found us yet please hunt us down, just a half a block off Beacon Avenue south of Fifth Street. Our ladies wear has grown to where it could fill it’s own store. Our industrial is still leading the market for value and durability, and our men’s casual and business casual has everything you need for work or after work. Our Holiday collection is arriving daily and looks great this year. Please keep us in mind when shopping for your loved ones or when you just want to look and feel good.

Orange should be used as: C-0, M-60, Y-100, K-0 Grey Should be used as: C-0, M-0, Y-0, K-50

For Pantone PMS Colours please contact Watermark 403-228-7949

Thank you allowing us to serve the best little town in the world for 27 years!

Doug Bateman

Gary Holman, MLA Saanich North and the Islands gary.holman.mla@leg.bc.ca www.garyholman.ca New Constituency Office numbers: 250-655-5711 Toll-free: 1-855-955-5711

Back Row, L to R: Trevor, Tina, Amanda, Liz, Karen, Ashley Front Row, L to R: Dr. Loren Braun, Dr. Jacalyn Sollid

Christine Laurent Jewellers, a well-known establishment in Sidney has a new owner, Ray MacLeod who has been a resident of the Saanich Peninsula for the past 16 years. He is committed to providing the area with the excellent service they have always enjoyed.

The dedicated and loyal staff welcomes manager, Shelly Whiteside who is eager to assist in helping the community with their current and future needs.

Shopping for that special person on your list can often be a challenge. Not so when you visit Christine Laurent Jewellers and behold their incredible selection of gorgeous Diamonds, Gold and Birthstone jewellery, Sterling Silver and specially selected giftware to please the most discriminating person on your list.

Birthdays • Anniversaries • Christmas • Special Occasions Our selection is eye catching and we are always pleased to gift wrap at no extra charge. Shop early as new stock is arriving daily and you will want to have the very first choice.

Come in and say hi, we welcome your smiles! Lisette, Nancy, Phyllis, Suniti & Shelly are here to assist you as always.

2432 Beacon Ave., Sidney BC 250-656-7141 www.christinelaurentjewellers.ca

In their modern dental office, Dr. Braun has all the latest technology at his fingertips to provide patients with the best dental care possible. Along with digital radiographs, which produce significantly less radiation than conventional x-rays, the office has intraoral cameras. These take photographs that are then displayed on screens attached to the patient chairs. “A picture is worth a thousand words, so we use photos to help patients understand why a treatment is recommended,” says Dr. Braun.

A full range of dental services is offered here: exams and cleanings, fillings, crowns and bridges, implants, root canals, full and partial dentures, in-office tooth whitening, and extractions, including wisdom teeth. Sedation is available for anxious patients, as well as same day emergency care. “We never want to turn away a patient who is in pain, so we do our best to fit them into our day.” Another patient-first philosophy: this office will bill your insurance company directly.

At this time, Dr. Sollid is not practicing dentistry due to neck problems. She keeps busy homeschooling their boys while Dr. Braun continues to care for patients at their office, located above Capital Iron. See them there, new patients are always welcome!

215 - 9764 Fifth Street (above Capital Iron) 250-655-7188 • www.sidneycentredental.com

SeaFirst Insurance Brokers has been providing our clients with the finest in general insurance services for over 40 years, and is proud to be a part of the Saanich Peninsula and Victoria communities.

OPTICAL & OPTOMETRISTS

Ray Dahl Optical and Optometrists now offer Eye Exams provided by Dr. Samantha Bourdeau. Our staff take pride in providing friendly service and high quality products, and with over 600 frames and 150 sunglasses to choose from, we can accommodate all your style needs.

Eye exams are available Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

Call for an appointment today #104-2376 Bevan Ave., Sidney Centre

250-655-1122 | raydahloptical.ca Office hours are Tuesday to Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Why insure with SeaFirst Insurance Brokers? Our highly-trained insurance brokers have extensive knowledge of property and liability insurance, to ensure that you receive the best coverage at the most competitive price. In the unfortunate event of a claim, our 24/7 claims service will ensure that your claim will be handled in a timely and professional manner.

Whether you are looking to insure your car, home, business, boat, or more, SeaFirst Insurance is happy to handle all of your insurance needs. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote at any of our 7 locations in the Saanich Peninsula and Greater Victoria area.

Brentwood Bay: 250-652-1141

Saanichton: 250-652-5157

Sidney: 250-656-9886

Salt Spring Island: 250-537-5527

Oak Bay: 250-592-5544

Westshore: 250-478-9110

Pender Island: 250-629-3789

Peninsula News Review / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2015 / peninsulanewsreview.com

Christine Laurent Jewellers

Sidney Centre Family Dentistry Family is key at Sidney Centre Family Dentistry: Husband and wife team Dr. Loren Braun and Dr. Jacalyn Sollid opened their Sidney family practice in 2000. 15 years and 2 children later, family is still their focus. “We enjoy treating entire families, from young kids’ first visits to grandparents maintaining their oral health. It is fun to get to know the whole family, and watch them grow year after year,” says Dr. Braun.

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I would like to thank all of our existing clients and gladly welcome new clients to experience our services – Darren Proulx

WE KEEP UP WITH YOU. At Darren J. Proulx, CPA, we take a personal hands-on approach that caters to the financial needs you have right now, and the plans you’re making for the future. Priorities change, and not just at the end of the fiscal year! Our constant aim is flexibility and answers tailored to you.

WE’RE PEOPLE, YOU’RE PEOPLE. Working with us isn’t a once-a-year meeting to sign your tax documents, and a few reminder letters. When you call the office, you’ll speak with Darren or Chris. When you come in, you’ll be greeted with a tail wag by Louie. You know our names, and we know yours.

WE ANSWER QUESTIONS WHEN YOU HAVE THEM. Don’t wait for the end of the year, just pick up the phone when you’re facing a question we can help with. We’ll have answers, and if we don’t … well, we’ll get them. Your business and life change all the time, not just when tax season arrives, and as your accounting partners we’re ready to hear about what’s going on when it’s going on.

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Examining the local economy Saanich Peninsula mayors talk business North Saanich here’s a wide and diverse business community within the District of North Saanich and Mayor Alice Finall has no compunction about singing its praises.

While there is a mix of economic activity in North Saanich, the largest sector there is the transportation industry — specifically the ferry terminal and marine slips at Swartz Bay and the Victoria International Airport.

“These transportation hubs are very robust in North Saanich,” Finall said. “Not only does industry revolve around transportation here, there really is a healthy amount of industry surrounding it and it all contributes greatly to our local tax base.”

The majority of the airport land sits within the District of North Saanich. Its operating body, the Victoria Airport Authority (VAA), has sub-leased out land to various other industrial companies, from the Thrifty Food grocery chain and Wilson’s Transportation, to a wide variety of aviation-based businesses, such as Viking Air. Operating a successful transportation hub in its own right, the VAA has been upgrading the Victoria airport in recent years and is looking to grow both industry and retail on the land it holds a long-term lease with under Transport Canada.

There have been business openings and closing over the years at the airport land, Finall explained (most recently the selling of and closure of the Slegg Lumber truss facility), yet businesses do flock to the area due to its proximity to all modes of transport.

Federal facilities such as the Institute of Ocean Sciences and Centre for Plant Health, both in North Saanich, add to the region’s public-sector economic base.

At the very northern tip of the community lies Swartz Bay. It’s the Island hub for BC Ferries operations and the main entry point to Vancouver Island, via ferry, from the mainland. Nearby, marine industry sites abound, serving both the

Category 12 craft brewery in Central Saanich uses science in their operation on Keating X Road.

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PeninsulaNews NewsReview Review / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES / peninsulanewsreview.com Peninsula / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2014 /2015 peninsulanewsreview.com

commercial and recreational boating sectors.

Where Finall is most passionate about is in North Saanich’s agricultural sector.

“Agriculture is one of our main pillars of economic activity,” she said. “However, a lot of the land isn’t being farmed … about one-third.”

She said some of the land is being held for speculation reasons, as owners test the province’s Agricultural Land North Saanich places a high value on its agriculture sector.

Commission, seeking to have the land taken out of B.C.’s the highest average (gross) trict is home to a large farmers’ agricultural land reserve sysincome for farmers,” she said. market that runs each Saturday tem. Redevelopment for com“It’s not as high in general from June to early October mercial or residential purposes terms as it might be for large, (the last one this year was Oct. is having a big impact on land industrial-scale farming, but it 10) each year. In its seventh value and farming activity on is very respectable.” year, the North Saanich Farm the Saanich Peninsula.

With the largest winery Market highlights efforts “Even the land here that is on the Island, the largest two of local growers, attracting being farmed, not all of it is dairy farms, largest producer of tourists from across the region. active,” the mayor continued. salad greens and largest organ- Finall said this event adds However, she said she sees ic blueberry farm, Finall said around $1.5 million into the a lot of potential for growth in there’s a strong farming base in local economy. the agricultural sector.

North Saanich.

“That money stays in the “In North Saanich, we have To highlight that, the Discommunity,” she said, “and

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there’s a multiplier of between three and five on employment created here as a result.”

The market itself provides a look at what some of the producers in North Saanich and the Saanich Peninsula in general are up to. Finall said it has a wonderful atmosphere and attracts enough people to make it a tourist destination as well.

“We have a lot to be thankful for, in terms of our economy. We have a very healthy and broad-based local economy.”

Central Saanich Agriculture makes up a large percentage of the land in neighbouring Central Saanich — some 60 per cent if it is within the Agricultural Land Reserve, says Mayor Ryan Windsor. He added, however, that using it to its full capability is a challenge.

“Some of the big farms, like

Meanwhile, the municipality maintains a strong focus on its hub areas of Brentwood Bay, Saanichton and the Keating Corridor. These, said Windsor, are the main areas of commercial and industrial activity in the District.

Businesses along Keating X Road have been a focus of the municipality for years. Windsor said the current council is

making a point of reviewing where there can be successes now and in the future.

“We are going to be doing an analysis of the corridor,” he said. “We’ll look at zoning policies, potentially making it more defined and more flexible to accommodate major change.”

Part of that analysis will include seeking ways to have

Companies like Morinwood have chosen to run their operation on Keating X Road in Central Saanich.

Big plans for your small business?

businesses along Keating grow — literally. With many structures there single-story, Windsor said there may be possibilities to add height, increase useable space and diversify the type of business there.

Windsor added the municipality, even while focusing in on Keating, must work to reach a balance between local economic needs and the utility and infrastructure costs facing the District.

“I’m an advocate of spending wisely on infrastructure now,” he said, “as future costs won’t be cheap. I hope this (focus on infrastructure improvements) adds to the value received by our business community.”

In the community hubs of Saanichton and Brentwood Bay there has been an upswing in various commercial and residential projects over the last couple years. The work done by previous councils, Windsor

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Longview, Eurosa and Michell are trying to maximize the use of their land. For the smaller farm holdings, there is still an opportunity to create growth.”

The District of Central Saanich itself is contributing to the small farm challenges by renewing an agreement with Farmland Trust to operate Newman Farm as a community resource. Elsewhere in the agribusiness sector, wineries like Church and State, Symphony, Dragonfly Hill and De Vine vineyards (the latter owned by Windsor’s family), and Sea Cider are not only finding markets but opening doors for added agri-tourism in the area. That crown is held

by Butchart Gardens. The Central Saanich tourist attraction is the largest draw in the capital region. Windsor said it’s marketed region-wide and beyond, so taking advantage of its location in his own community remains a challenge.

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said, to see more construction activity, is starting to bear fruit. In Brentwood Bay, a new four-story residential building is under construction on West Saanich Road. Windsor said that was approved in 2008, and as the economy got better and finances for the owners improved, work has begun.

In Saanichton, a 45-unit rental building, geared towards older adults, is going up next to Thrifty Foods. Windsor said it’s the first collection of purely rental housing that’s been built in Central Saanich in a long time. With other residential projects on the horizon — and a long standing plan for a facelift of the Trafalgar Square retail area — there’s potential to see an invigorated economy, and community, in Central Saanich.

Peninsula NewsReview Review/ PENINSULA / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES / peninsulanewsreview.com Peninsula News BUSINESS PROFILES 2014 /2015 peninsulanewsreview.com

Sidney There’s plenty of vigour in the Town of Sidney these days,

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Housing development in Sidney has jumped considerably in recent months.

as it is witnessing a resumption of the development and growth it was seeing prior to the economic collapse of 2008.

For Sidney Mayor Steve Price, this rush of activity lines up with the community’s overall vision and bodes well for future economic fortunes.

For years, Sidney has had its eye on diversity — reaching

a balance between its senior and young families population, with an eye on improving the bottom line of local business and industry. Price said living up to this vision has meant the Town has had a series of councils willing to take risks — and willing to live with the political fallout. Change, he continued, is always a tough

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A huge thank you goes to our existing and new clients for their support, through community and word of mouth referrals.

Since 1981 Rick and Ron have been part of the local tradition for Garbage Removal & Recycling on the Peninsula and Greater Victoria.

sell. However, Price noted that since even before 2008, Sidney has looked for growth and created policies and area plans to fit with that vision.

“We’re reaching all of our goals,” he said. “Young families are wanting to come live here and older people are still coming here to retire.”

Quoting long-time Councillor Tim Chad, Price said the goal is to put “more feet on the street.”

In fact, there’s a long-term vision that has the Town reaching a population of 15,000 by the year 2025. That means an average growth of 150 residential units each year. It’s a lofty goal, and part of the mandate of the Town’s new economic development commission.

In addition to population growth, it’s tasked with looking at ways to: lower the retail vacancy rate in downtown Sidney; increase retail sales,

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and; achieve an A-rating for its downtown core. Reaching those marks, said Town Chief Administrative Officer Randy Humble, will take time and effort and will focus the commission’s work on the recommendations out of last year’s Mayor’s Task Force on Downtown Revitalization.

The commission will focus on all things Sidney, but Price added the Town isn’t stopping there. It’s getting ready to sign on to a South Island Economic Development Committee, made up of municipalities in Greater Victoria. That body, which has yet to be fully ratified, takes a big picture approach, Price said. The Town will pay into its operation — a per capita amount of around $27,000 a year — and it will look at issues like job creation and retention and business relocation on a regional, national and international level.

Price said Sidney really is

open for business — noting the municipality was one of the provincial winners of an award stating just that, just last month. For Sidney, that means the local government is trying to reduce red tape and make changes to its zoning bylaws to accommodate positive additions to the community. For example, when they got wind of a potential distillery relocation to town, council and staff worked to change a zoning bylaw to allow them into the downtown core. Since then, Victoria Spirits has announced they will move to a waterfront location in Sidney.

Price noted that such changes have to be done for the right reasons and that the resulting impact is positive for the community. He said the Town isn’t making changes blindly or without any thought to residents. He added it’s about showing leadership to help foster new, positive activity.

length economic development commission to the mix and have placed a lot of stock in bringing new people to the area as a way to keep things humming.

Looking further down the road, Price said the idea is to maintain Sidney as a jewel for its residents and business Sidney’s trying to achieve a owners, while adding elements that compeiment the vision. population balance.

The proposed Gateway retail project by the Victoria Airport “Things are looking better, Authority is one of those especially since 2008,” he said. future areas of growth. While “Sidney has held its own and the growth is back. It’s just not still in its infancy, the Gateway is promising to add to the realistic, or practical … to pull Beacon Avenue business core, up the drawbridge.”

Helping spur on this growth rather than detract from it.

Price said there is still is the Town’s focus on groups much work to be done on that fit in with their overall that proposal, but the Town is vision. hoping it will help add to the Those include the Sidney volume of visits, shoppers and Business Improvement Area DIRECTORY: SAANICH PENINSULA AD SIZE: IFCP DATE: SEPTEMBER CLASSIFICATION: INSIDE FRONTresidents COVER ARTIST: MICHAEL C that willVERSION: make04 Sidney Society, Saanich Peninsula vibrant.

Chamber of Commerce and local events advisory group.

Steven Heywood/News staff They’ve added their arms-

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250.661.0395 - From Sooke to Sidney • plumb-it @shaw.ca

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The RIGHT product, for the RIGHT price!

MOTORIZED BLINDS, CUSTOM CURTAINS AND OTHER WINDOW TREATMENTS

RODCO Interiors has been serving Victoria BC for over 25 years. A family business owned & operated by Roger and his son Fielding Comartin. Specializing in custom Window Treatments with quality products for every price range including motorized blinds, blinds, drapes, fabrics as well as all other window treatments and upholstery needs. From the Royal Jubilee Hospital, Strathcona & DoubleTree Hilton Hotels to your residence. Whatever your needs may be, RODCO Interiors’ experienced Father & Son dynamic is sure to suit you.

SOOKE to SIDNEY! • Office: 250-656-4642 • Mobile: 250-361-7858

N E E D

A BODY SHOP? Operating as an independent at his original location in Langford, Audy Autobody, they received numerous awards for outstanding customer service and quality repairs. Audy attributes his success in part with having a detail oriented team focused on quality workmanship.

Audy’s newest location off Keating Road is state of the art with the latest technology. Sylvain Audy and his partner Lorraine May, look forward to further expansion!

Their bodyshop is committed to an environmentally acceptable way of working. It is equipped to carry out a whole

range of repairs, from paintless dent removal to major accident damage.

The staff are all trained to a high standard; the engineers have qualifications and regularly attend training in order to keep ahead of modern technological issues. The workshops are equipped with the very latest equipment to ensure that modern vehicles are serviced and repaired to manufacturer’s specifications.

Replacement vehicles are available to you and will be gladly arranged. If requested, an upgraded valet service is available.

Our bodyshop undertakes repairs for private individuals, fleets and management companies.

The scope of repairs range from passenger vehicles (including prestige cars) up to light commercial vehicles (max 3.5 tonnes) Although we are a forward thinking company, one thing always remains constant – we never leave behind the values that have made us successful: trust, service and reliability.

Green Products - Experts in the use of water-based car paint.

FREE ESTIMATES | 250.652.3221 | fixautopeninsula.com 6722 Bertram Place (at Keating Cross Rd.)

Peninsula News Review / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2015 / peninsulanewsreview.com

Sylvain Audy began his career in the autobody industry at just 16 years of age in his hometown of Quebec City. By age 20 he began his own shop and this success carries forward today with two locations in Victoria!

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We see the person behind the business.

Meet Mark Guzylak-Shergold, our Small Business advisor dedicated to Sidney’s small business and professional segments. With over 3 years of banking experience, Mark will help you grow throughout your career by providing relevant financial solutions, exceptional service and sound advice that will help you reach both your personal and business goals.

Sidney Branch 2355 Beacon Avenue Sidney, BC V8L 1W9 250-655-2270 Ext.4300 mark.guzylakshergold@scotiabank.com

Peninsula News Review / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2015 / peninsulanewsreview.com

ÂŽ

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Registered trademark of The Bank of Nova Scotia.

We Take Pride in Our Attention to Detail Let Us Help You Grow Your Business with Exceptional and Efficient Bookkeeping and Accounting Services CORPORATE TAX | CANADIAN AND US PERSONAL TAX TRUSTS AND ESTATES

Caroline M. Paterson, CPA, CGA | Sheila C. Henn, CPA, CA

Suite 103 - 9710 Second Street in Sidney 250-656-7284(PATH) | www.patersonhenn.com

Henley & Walden LLP is pleased to welcome

Chris Straub

to the firm as an Associate Lawyer Chris was born and raised in North Saanich. After obtaining his Bachelor of Science (Hon.) and Juris Doctor from the University of Victoria, he moved to Calgary to work at a large national firm. After five years away, he is thrilled to be back home on the West Coast.

Called to the Alberta bar in 2011 and the British Columbia bar in 2015, Chris maintains a broad practice with particular expertise in facilitating all aspects of private business transactions, as well as the establishment and ongoing management of corporations. He is also looking forward to establishing a real estate and estate planning/administration practice. Chris prides himself on his strategic foresight and attention to detail, and strives at all times to anticipate the issues which may impact his clients as they manage their affairs.

Chris lives in Ardmore with his wife Paige and two young sons. When not in the office, he can usually be found out on the water or exploring the Peninsula with his boys.

Chris is welcoming new clients and looks forward to building on his existing relationships within the community.

www.henleywalden.com 250.656.7231

Small business bread and butter Small business a large asset for area financial institutions

T

hinking of opening a small business on the Saanich Peninsula?

That can be done with paying a visit to local banks in the community.

The PNR sat down with the Manager of Small Business Banking, James Haley-Browning of TD Canada Trust in Sidney, Business Banking Officer, Joel Czeck of Coast Capital in Sidney, along with the Director of Commercial Banking for Coast Capital for Vancouver Island, Raj Wirk. The three banking professionals went over the process of opening up a small business, what it takes to be successful and how large corporations like banks benefit greatly from them.

Browning says initial success depends on how far the individual has gotten with their plan, as some clients will come in not knowing which direction to go. He has owned two businesses in the restaurant industry and can help to relate with his clients on what to expect, including the hurdles they may come across along the way.

“Make sure you’re passionate about what you want to do…” he said. “Just know that it’s not as easy as a lot of people think, it is a lot of work.”

When a client comes in and has no clue what they’re supposed to do next, he helps in sending them in the right direction, and that is visiting B.C. One Stop, which shows an individual the step by step process of setting up a company.

“Once they’ve created their business and if they’re incorporating and they get their documents, that’s when they can come back in to see me and I can actually start the process of opening the bank accounts for them.”

For Czeck at Coast Capital, the process of opening a business is very similar.

He would meet with the client, finding out the basics like the history of the business and what the individual’s needs are as far as what challenges they are having or can expect to have down the road.

“Based on that, we talk about what Coast Capital can help them with,” said

Peninsula NewsReview Review/ PENINSULA / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES / peninsulanewsreview.com Peninsula News BUSINESS PROFILES 2014 /2015 peninsulanewsreview.com

Raj Wirk left and Joel Czeck taking part in some role play at the Coast Capital Branch in Sidney.

Czeck.

As far as requirements go in the opening stages, Czeck says it all depends on how a client’s business is structured and based on that, he would then collect a few documents and do a simple credit check as well.

Browning says in opening a bank account for starting a business, there are no financial requirements, but one of course can’t have had fraud in their past. In relating the requirements in starting a new business to his own experience of owning a restaurant, he says one should have a couple months of working capital.

“Think ahead with the business,” he said.

He suggests that clients should continue with the their regular job so that there is stable income and less stress.

In terms of advice, members from both banks said that as a potential new business owner, it’s good to get out in the community and talk to some of the other businesses, seeing how they do things.

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PeninsulaNews News Review / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2015 / peninsulanewsreview.com Peninsula Review / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2014 / peninsulanewsreview.com

Wirk said that advice can really be of big help from not only banks in their financial support but in talking to business owners, as they have the experience and are there to help.

“It’s a huge endeavour so the more assistance you have and the more opinions you have kind of helping you out, the better.”

With the wide range of clients that meet with banks, Browning says if an individual comes in with their full business plan and projections completed, they will typically be a more successful candidate.

“Generally those people will be more successful if they’ve fully developed their business plan, they’ve done their market research, they’ve talked to a few other businesses that either they might be wanting to sell their product in or work with. Definitely if they’ve done that, I’d say they are more

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James Haley-Browning of TD Canada Trust in Sidney. successful.”

Not only are small businesses and businesses in general important to the community, but they are of great benefit to larger corporations, like banks.

Wirk says that Coast Capital benefits from small businesses in a huge way.

“We have 15,000 com-

mercial banking clients on Vancouver Island and 90 per cent of those are small business clients, so small business represents the lion’s share of our commercial banking portfolio.

So to that extent they’re very important to us…” he said.

In terms of here in Sidney, Wirk says that Coast Capital’s

relationship has been long standing.

“We have a really, really strong footprint in Sidney, a long history here, a long successful history with a number of small businesses just up and down Beacon Avenue so I think that the communities that we’re in, we have a deep relationship with the small businesses because that’s part of our corporate identity.”

For TD Canada Trust, Browning says the benefit of small businesses for them is huge, and that one of their number one focusses is on developing small business.

“Small businesses are a large focus for the banks,” he said.

“Especially for our area, small business is huge. The majority of the businesses in this area are small business and we have a couple larger players.”

He added small businesses are their bread and butter.

Carlie Connolly/News staff

8 Reasons To Try Coastal 1.) Up to $3500 in combined grants 2.) Get a heat pump that fits your budget 3.) Specializing in residential heat pumps 4.) Low-cost extended maintenance plans 5.) Hassle-free heat pump installation & service 6.) Over 35 years of heat pump experience 7.) Service all makes and models 8.) 100% Heat Pump Financing

Find out more at: coastalheatpumps.com

P: 250-656-6868 E: don@coastalhvac.ca W: heatpumpsvictoria.com H: Mon - Fri 8.30 to 5

Beacon Landing Liquor & More Beacon Landing Liquor and More has a brand new look and is under new ownership and management! At the helm is Rob Pemberton, Director of Operations, and with two other locations on the Island - assuming this spot at the beautiful Beacon Landing building was a natural move. Offering very competitive pricing and ongoing feature selections each week of wines, spirits and beer. We have an excellent selection of specialty scotch, craft beer, as well as new offerings of higher end of vintage selection wines.

We offer a great ‘rewards’ incentive program with draws for growing points towards merchandise, discounts and trips for two! Our aim is to provide customers with outstanding service! Customers can shop online as well.

106 - 2537 Beacon Avenue, Sidney BC (Extra parking in the back) liquorandmore.ca

C

ome visit your neighbourhood Pharmasave - right in the heart of Brentwood Bay! We are celebrating 14 years in business at this location and look forward to serving our customers well into the future.

Very proudly locally owned and operated, owner and Pharmacist Colin Chan has been a Pharmacist for 31 years - 25 of which have been spent in Brentwood Bay. His partner, owner and Pharmacist Joe Duquesnay has been a Pharmacist for 27 years in Brentwood Bay. We are happy to assist with services including easy prescription transferring, prescription delivery and Live Well medication reviews. Customer appreciation and Seniors days are ever popular with a 15% discount offered on most items.

Store manager Gary Mason is among the team who are happy to help with any questions you have about the broad variety of products offered at the store. The close knit group of staff offer friendly service and always with a smile attached.

We believe in Community and support many events throughout the year including Cops for Cancer, Cupcakes for Cancer & Join the Fight campaign. We are also proud sponsors of the little league in Brentwood and the three local First Nations territories.

See us for all your everyday needs!

7181 West Saanich Rd., Brentwood Bay 250-652-1235 Mon. - Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Closed Sundays & Holidays

Peninsula News Review / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2015 / peninsulanewsreview.com

250-655-6531 | Open 7 days a week: 9am - 11pm

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PeninsulaNews NewsReview Review / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES / peninsulanewsreview.com Peninsula / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2014 /2015 peninsulanewsreview.com

John Carswell and Alice Bacon of the already popular Brentwood Bay Village Empourium

Not just a one stop shop Brentwood Bay’s Empourium is a hybrid store

J

ohn Carswell and Alice Bacon know a thing or two when it comes to owning a business, and their unique coffee shop, Brentwood Bay Village Empourium shows that. Since opening on July 29, Emporium has seen many customers come through the doors but a big thing for these entrepreneurs is getting that sense of community within Brentwood Bay. Both having a background in communications and special events, producing large scale events and projects in the re18 gion for the last 15 years, the pair wanted

to do something different.

“We reached a point where we really became aware of a desire to do something right in our own neighbourhood and we have played with the idea for quite a while about creating a community gathering space,” Bacon says.

The busy entrepreneurs did a lot of research in the community, asking people what they wanted to see in Brentwood Bay and what they had in mind linked well with what the community was asking to see — really good coffee and somewhere to shop.

“We like to think of ourselves as a community centre that happens to sell stuff,” said Carswell.

“Because of our background in community celebration stuff, it seemed like a natural fit” added Bacon.

Carswell said the response from the community has been very welcoming.

With their coffee shop being a hybrid business, people get the opportunity to not only enjoy their cup of coffee, but shop around too.

“From the feedback we’ve got from people, it seems like this combination of this sort of hybrid business of coffee and food and retail seems to really resonate with people and I think that’s because this is Brentwood Bay and it’s unlike other communities where there just aren’t a lot of retail opportunities at the moment,” Carswell said.

He reflected back to when the area was a thriving village with lots of stores, but like a lot of smaller communities on the outskirts of larger cities, it was no longer the case.

just that. to contribute to that,” said Open seven days a week, Carswell. their plan is to include evening He said having worked for activity with the incorporation a big company for 20 years, of community events like live there’s a certain amount of music, a possible speaker series liberation that comes with beand more. ing self employed — but also Participating in the ArtSea the inevitable trade off with Festival with an artist in house everybody who walks through and having had many requests the doors being their boss. from people “The good who want to part of that is “We’ve seen that host a house they’re also community spirit start that concert, Emour neighbours to return.” pourium has and our friends been thriving, and we have – John Carswell bringing back expanded our that sense of reach into the community that was once community tenfold, I would there. say, since opening our doors.

“Yeah, we hear from people We’ve made so many new a lot about how they really friends, so it feels really good,” love that Brentwood Bay is he said turning back into a village, that Bacon said that hybrid busithere’s this sense that things nesses are taking off quite a are changing here… Having bit more, combining a general lived here for almost 25 years store environment with the now, we’ve seen that commucoffee and food service. nity spirit start to return and They are currently rolling we just want to be part of it, out the business in stages as

they start to see how the community reacts.

They are working on a gallery space that can act as a meeting room or other opportunities the community sees fit — along with accommodating book clubs, sketching and cyclists. They are hoping to put in bike racks at the front of their store to be as inclusive as they can.

Open Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 3p.m., the bustling coffee shop is in full swing.

Accommodating up to 50 people, Carswell said they’ve got a stage and many other additions.

“So we’re going to have some fun here and we’re going to create a place where I think people in the community can take a little bit of ownership of and to make it feel like a community asset rather than just another business.”

— Carlie Connolly/News staff

Helping those in need through those who care.

Since 1984, the Sidney Lions Food Bank has serviced the Saanich Peninsula relying solely on the generosity of the community. The Sidney Lions Food Bank receives no government funding. As we head into our busiest season of the year we are appreciative of our community’s continued generosity and donations.

To find out how to help The Sidney Lions Food Bank visit sidneylionsfoodbank.com or call us 250-655-0679 Office Hours: Monday to Friday 8AM - 2PM

PeninsulaNews News Review / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2015 / peninsulanewsreview.com Peninsula Review / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2014 / peninsulanewsreview.com

“The last few decades have really resulted in the economic heart of those communities being torn out by big box stores and online shopping and those kinds of things and I think we’re at a point as a community where we’re starting to recognize the value of what we’ve lost and we’re looking for opportunities to restore that.” he said.

The couple moved to Brentwood Bay in 1993 with Carswell working in Sidney and Bacon working downtown Victoria. But their chosen community was more than just a halfway point.

“It’s become a lot more than that and certainly having a child growing up in the neighbourhood changes the way that you look at a place. You know, it stops being just somewhere you live as a commuter and starts being community where you put your heart and soul,” she said.

And they have been doing

19 19

Industry is active on the Saanich Peninsula. Large companies quietly create employment for many residents.

Chamber fighting for business President Craig Norris says half the battle is just showing up PeninsulaNews NewsReview Review / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES / peninsulanewsreview.com Peninsula / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2014 /2015 peninsulanewsreview.com

Low oil and gas prices, an upswing in the U.S. construction industry and a low Canadian dollar driving tourism to Vancouver Island.

On an international level, issues such as these are typically thought as drivers of the Island economy. And to some extent, says Craig Norris, president of the Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, that is true. Yet, he continues, the role they play are only a small indicator of the state of the local economy.

Norris, who became the Chamber president earlier this year, is also vice-chairperson of the Greater Victoria Economic Development Committee (GVEDC). In both roles, he says he finds himself in a position of policy advocacy — a job the Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce takes seriously.

Norris says the Island sees issues such as lower average wages and higher average house prices affecting economic growth. Yet, it’s not as negative as it sounds.

“I think those checks in the economy are a healthy thing. It’s an opportunity (on the Peninsula) to look at the people 20 20 coming here, see that flow of more

people and know that it’s representative of why the local housing market is so strong.”

An influx of people — either retirees or young families looking for work out of the oil patch — can spark growth in local business activity. How communities in the area react to that, is what the Chamber pays close attention to.

“At the Chamber, we are trying to connect with our members more on the policy side of the local economy,” Norris explains.

He adds as the president of the organization, he cannot find much fault with local government and how they react for higher-than-usual demand for housing and retail opportunities.

“This area has a high retired population,” he says, noting many of them have found their way into government and have become representative of a large voting block here.

It’s that focus that has played a dominant role in local policy for years, Norris says, focussing more on their issues, rather than developing business opportunities.

“We are working hard to show that

you can do business here, successfully.”

Part of that has to be simply showing up, he says. While many retired people tend to gravitate towards local politics and decision-making, there’s opportunity for the business community to have their voices heard.

“There needs to be more professional people, and individuals between age 25 and 45 out to council meetings,” he says.

“There’s really a large retired population out there. I’m not blaming them ... but if you don’t show up to council, or to vote, you just don’t exist.”

In Sidney, Norris says he’s seeing more of an effort to combat the NIMBY attitudes of some residents, with a focus on core issues and facts about growth, rather than sticking with emotional responses.

While all of the local governments on the Peninsula are different in this area — people’s reaction to the suggestion of change — it means the Chamber will always be battling at the local political arenas. Norris says, however, that the region needs to grow, to be active, in order to meet the needs of its residents.

Continued on page 23

Postings Denture Clinic

2444 Beacon Ave Sidney, BC V8L 1X6 phone: (250) 656-4626 toll free: 1-888-886-1286 email: info@newportrealty.com www.newportrealty.com

Ron Postings R.D., Robin Postings R.D., Tan Nguyen R.D. The Denture Clinic is here to re-energize and revitalize your smile.

Let the Denture Clinic team design a personalized treatment plan to bring back your smile and function. We provide Precision/Standard full, partial and implant supported dentures.

The professionals at The Denture Clinic will take you through the complete denture process. They provide full services at their two locations: • Full & Partial Dentures • Same day Relines & Repairs • Dentures Over Implants • No referrals necessary

Willy Dunford

Linda Egan

Tom Fisher

Steffen Hagen

Kimberly Legeard

Ralph Meuser

Maryan Van Stolk

Mary Secord-Fisher

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Holly Critchison Office Manager

For caring, quality service and free consultations visit The Denture Clinic.

Victoria 250.383.7227 3937 Quadra St. (2 blocks south of McKenzie)

www.postingsdentures.com

Westcoast Living We are local, community based, with a global reach.

Helping our community to be the best place to live.

J e ss ic a Kwa s nica A.A., Dip. ID Professional services from design through installation Jessica has been working in the cabinet design industry since 2005. Over the last decade, she has evolved as a designer and can transition from the most detailed traditional room to a sleek contemporary space seamlessly & beautifully. Client relationships are foremost to her business, from Home Owners, Contractors, Developers and Interior Designers.

Jessica adores a great kitchen project and spends countless hours working with her clients to help them achieve a space they can truly enjoy, work in, love and continue to fall for every day.

Timeless Elegance, Unmatched Quality

www. S e a s i d e C a b i netr y. c a 2071 D Malaview Ave W, Sidney | 250.812.4304 | info@SeasideCabinetry.ca

Peninsula News Review / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2015 / peninsulanewsreview.com

Sidney 250.655.7009 #3-2227 James White Blvd. (behind Thrifty Foods)

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WE SPECIALIZE IN FIRST TIME BUYERS AND THOSE HARD TO GET MORTGAGE LOANS The Mortgage Centre Sidney, BC is your “Go To” place for residential, commercial and construction mortgages. Whether it’s a 1st, 2nd or CHIP Reverse Mortgages, we offer the BEST RATES ANYWHERE.

Murray Savage 250-217-2200

Shelley Haydar 250-217-7992

The Mortgage Centre Come See Us at 9771 Fourth Street, Sidney Between Beacon & Bevan right downtown.

Your Hearing Health Care Specialists!

McNeill Audiology, a locally owned, independent business with two hearing clinics, has been providing hearing assessments, hearing aids and assistive listening devices to the lower Vancouver Island community for over twenty years.

We are proud of the exceptional service we are able to offer and our experienced, professional audiologists are delighted to be able to provide solutions to help you communicate with your loved ones. Hearing aid technology is always improving and there are many options available to suit each individual’s lifestyle and listening needs. We invite you to have your hearing tested by one of our wonderful audiologists.

McNeill Audiology 5 – 9843 Second St., Sidney • 250-656-2218 1463 Hampshire Rd., Victoria • 250-370-2833

Peninsula News Review / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2015 / peninsulanewsreview.com

Webpage: www.mcneillaudiology.ca E-mail: admin@mcneillaudiology.ca www.sidneymortgages.com • 250-656-9551 Sidney BIA - PNR Business Profiles Ad • Size: 7.25” (w) x 4.75” (h) • Rev 4 • Oct 05/15

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Sidney Business Improvement Area Celebrating Sidney’s People, Place & Offerings!

WHAT IS A BIA? distinctlysidney.ca

A business improvement area promotes the business district and its members, attracts customers, stimulates the economy, and supports the community.

Promotional activities focus on special events and the implementation of ongoing marketing programs to keep the BIA area foremost in peoples minds as an attractive, pleasant place to shop, to be entertained, to work and to live.

To see the Sidneyy BIA at work visit distinctlysidney.ca y y

— Steven Heywood/News staff

West Coast Pref inish

L T D .,

West Coast Prefinish is a locally owned and operated prefinishing shop. We specialize in the prefinishing of: Siding • Hardi Products • Dimensional Lumber • Cedar Shingles/panel • Decking • Fencing • Flooring and more The benefits of prefinishing include: a factory finish in a controlled environment, no costly delays due to unfavourable weather conditions, back priming adding longevity to your wood products, environmentally friendly and most importantly COST EFFECTIVE for both contractor and homeowner.

2113 Keating Cross Rd, Saanichton P: 250.544.8195 | F: 250.544.8165

web: westcoastprefinish.ca email: westcoastprefinish@shaw.ca

Advanced Dentistry • Small Animal Medicine and Surgery Acupuncture • Official Veterinarian for the 2013 Canadian Police Canine Championships

Serving Vancouver Island for over 30 years.

250-656-9911 • www.deanparkpet.com • www.facebook.com/DeanParkPetHospital

Peninsula PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES / peninsulanewsreview.com PeninsulaNews News Review Review //PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2014 2015 / peninsulanewsreview.com

Continued from page 20

“The economy needs to keep moving. Some people don’t understand that if you’re not moving, you’re dead.”

There has been plenty of movement on the Peninsula this year. Ramsay Machine Works closed its doors, Norris says, and the area lost what was a strong family business.

“We watch these things very carefully. There are big businesses being lost (from time to time) and never replaced.

In this case, we are waiting to see how the company that replaces (Ramsay) fares.”

Also on the horizon is the proposed commercial development at the Victoria International Airport — the Gateway project. The Victoria Airport Authority has proposed 10 acres of new retail space, connecting with Sidney’s downtown. Norris says it’s hard to comment on it at this early stage, but he admits the Chamber has work to do once it sees the actual proposal.

“I’m happy to see a development company like Omicron giving this another go — it’s an investment of their time and money as well. It might hurt people to react to this too early, but yes, we need to have a discussion ... as the project takes shape.”

What such a project could do, he adds, is increase the profile of the West Sidney industrial area, a place that’s typically quiet and as a result, can be easy to ignore.

“This offers an opportunity to focus on that side of the highway and move forward.”

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Peninsula News Review / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2015 / peninsulanewsreview.com

Stress is for daytime soaps Stress is forisdaytime soaps Stress for daytime soaps not daytime surgery. not not daytime surgery. daytime surgery.

Our state-of-the-art Day Surgery Unit will include a hat we have the most up-to-date operating rooms Our state-of-the-art Daymedication Surgery Unit will include w that we havethey the most up-to-date operating Our state-of-the-art Day Surgery Unita will include a Now that we have the most up-to-date operating rooms waiting room, storage and room and ncouver Island, are much in demand.

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More efficiency, moreit.to comfort—all to space to accommodate more than 1,500 surgical ensure that ourMore hospital is ready when you need dures and the almost 800 medical procedures ensure that our hospital ready whenisyou need it. you need it. cedures the almost 800 ensure thatisour hospital ready when procedures themedical almost 800 medical procedures ake placeand each year in and our Day Surgeryprocedures Unit.

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Your donation will help renovate our Day Surgery Unit Your donation will helpwill renovate our Dayour Surgery Unit Yourmake donation helpforrenovate and it stress-free everybody.Day Surgery Unit and make it stress-free for everybody. and make it stress-free for everybody.

It’s our hospital It’s our hospital It’s our hospital 250-652-7531 sphf.ca 250-652-7531 sphf.ca sphf.ca 250-652-7531 24