Business Examiner Thompson Okanagan - FEBRUARY 2020

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FEBRUARY 2020

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PAGE 13

Brothers Manufacture World’s First Fully Digital Made Dentures

GREEN SHEET

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Building Briefs

Perfit Bites Into Competitive Denture Market

PAGE 18

INDEX News Update

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Kelowna 4 Vernon 5

ELOWNA - If a smile is worth a thousand words then brothers Steve and George Cowburn of Perfit have created volumes of books.

Their goal was to produce a pair of dentures entirely by technology, and they accomplished that in 2016 by manufacturing the world’s first fully digitally made set of dentures. Within 2 hours, a patient’s mouth was 3D scanned, a restoration was digitally designed, milled and delivered to the patient.

Denture making had been cumbersome, requiring several dental visits and several weeks to complete the process of making a new pair. The process required

Penticton 5 Digital 13 Movers and Shakers 14 Green Sheet

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Opinion 19 Contact us: 1-866-758-2684

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SEE PERFIT | PAGE 12

George Cowburn, co-owner of Perfit, Oliver Eberle, Bethany Jonas and Steve Cowburn co-owner, at the inaugural Trade Show held in Kelowna

Scorpion Technologies Wins Excellence Award Manufacturer Owes Its Culture To A Passion For Customization

K

A M L OOPS- O n O ct 26, 2019, the Kamloops Chamber of Commerce n a m e d Scor pion Tech nologies its winner in Technology Innovation at their Business Excel lence Awa rds Ga la. As manufacturers of electric control grips, joysticks, and pendant stations controlling hydraulic functions on heavy duty mobile equipment, the innovative minds behind Scorpion enjoy problem-solving.

In fact, they always have.

Scor pion fou nder Brian Buchan launched his awardw i n n i ng compa ny i n t h at classic setting—a parent’s basement—when he was challenged to make a control grip.

Aldin Loewen of Loewen Forestry approached Buchan in the 1990s when he thought the young whiz kid might be able to make a more accessible, reasonably priced solution. Loewen’s instincts were

right: Buchan created a control grip that started to catch on, changing the young inventor’s life.

As Scorpion Technologies General Manager Eden Gallant puts it, “Word got around and Brian soon discovered he was making more money on the weekends than in his day job, so Sure Grip Controls [the original company name] was born.”

Forestry claimed the greater

part of Scorpion’s business in early days. As the company evolved, in large part due to Buchan’s strong interest in customization, agriculture became an increasingly important sector. Construction, railroads, and marine also began utilizing Scorpion’s solutions when they needed consistent, high quality ISO registered solutions. Today, SEE SCORPION TECHNOLOGIES | PAGE 13

Serving Vancouver Island, Northern BC and the Okanagan.

www.mazzeielectric.com RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INDUSTRIAL

2

NEWS UPDATE

FEBRUARY 2020

VERNON City Receives Award For Financial Reporting

Richard Okimaw 778.738.2606 rokimaw@lawsonlundell.com

LAWSON LUNDELL WELCOMES

RICHARD OKIMAW TO THE FIRM Lawson Lundell is proud to announce that Richard Okimaw has joined our firm as a Partner and Patent & Trademark Agent in our Intellectual Property Group. With 15 years of experience in all aspects of intellectual property, Rick’s depth of knowledge and experience will provide our clients, especially those in the technology sector, with the right guidance to ensure their ideas and businesses are protected.

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T h e C i t y o f Ve r n o n has received a Canadian Award for Financial Reporting from the Government Fi na nce Of f icers Association (GFOA) of the United States and Canada.

The recognition comes for the City’s annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2018.

T he Ca n ad i a n Awa rd for Financial Reporting program was established to encourage municipal governments throughout Canada to publish high quality financial reports and to provide peer recog n ition a nd tech n ica l g u id a n c e for of f ic i a l s preparing these reports.

Its attainment represents a significant accomplishment by a government and its management.

A C a n a d i a n Aw a rd for Financial Reporting ach ievement is awa rde d to t h e d e p a r t m e n t designated as primarily responsible for preparing the award-winning re p o r t . T h i s a w a rd i s bei ng presented to t he Financial Services Division. This team has received this award for the last 10 consecutive years (2009-2018).

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Funding For A Local Organics Processing Facility T h e Dist r ict of Su mm e rl a n d i s e x c i t e d t o announce they will receive grant funding for i mprovements to the S u m m erl a nd Sa n it a r y Landfill composting operations, from the governments of Canada and British Columbia through the Organics Infrastructure Program.

The grant award w i l l to t a l $ 2 ,37 1 ,5 0 0. $1,581,000 (2/3rds of the cost) will be covered by the Federal and Provinci a l G over n ments, t he remaining third will be funded by the District of Summerland.

T he D i st r ict of Su mmerl a nd s ubm it te d a n e x pre ssion of i ntere s t on November 30, 2018, followed by a full grant appl ication on May 22, 2019, for a local Organics

Processing Facility which would increase the types of organic materials that cou ld be processed for composting at the landfill.

T h e f a c i l i t y w i l l relocate the current composting operations to a new site within the landfill boundary. Technology and infrastructure will be upgraded to improve operations, provide more rob u s t env i ron m ent a l protection a nd g reatly reduce the possible occurrence of odours. Upon completion the community will have access to a new Class ‘A’ compost pro duct t h at h a s b e en created by diverting their agricultural and residential food scraps, currently collected under the curbside program or hauled to the landfill, from the District’s waste stream.

The new compost product will be in addition to the current high-quality Class ‘A’ biosolids compost produced and sold at the landfill.

KELOWNA City to Launch CCTV Registry Pilot The City of Kelowna is launching a CCTV Registry pilot program in partnership with the Kelowna RCMP and Downtown Kelowna Association (DKA).

This voluntary registry will record the location of business security cameras within the boundaries of the DK A to provide Kelowna RCMP with quicke r a c c e s s to p o te n t i a l sources of video evidence.

Ev idence to assist i n a crime investigation can sometimes be recorded b y a s e c u r i t y c a m e ra .

Currently, RCMP members must canvas areas in person when a crime occurs to determine if there are CCT V cameras that might have captured footage of vital evidence. It’s a process that consumes valuable time when expedience is critical in an investigation.

T hrough the CCT V Registry Pilot Program, busi nesses i n t he DK A can voluntarily register t h e i r s e c u r it y c a m e ra location(s) and contact i n fo r m a t i o n w i t h t h e C it y t h rou g h a se c u re database. The database will also include information about City of Kelowna CCTV cameras located on City property.

T he initiative has been reviewed and cleared by the Privacy Commissioner Office of BC.

KAMLOOPS Arenas Reduce Carbon Footprint The City of Kamloops has eliminated the use of hot water in its ice resurfacers (Zambonis) in four of its ice rinks and has plans to add another rink to the energyreduction program in 2020.

T he ice resurfacers at City ice rinks have traditionally used large quantities of hot water, which is produced by natural-gasfired boilers. By switching to cold-water ice floods, the City has been able to significantly reduce its carbon footprint. The natural gas saved in 2019 by using cold water for flooding the ice is equivalent to 1,807 gigajoules, and the resulting energy cost savings was $48,900.

The four rinks participating in the program are at Brocklehu rst A rena, McA rthur Island Sport and Event Centre (two ice sheets), and Valleyview Arena. The City plans to add Memorial A rena to the program in 2020, and Sandman Centre will be added to the program in the future.

“Ice rink facilities can be very energy intensive,” said Jeff Putnam, the City’s Parks and Civic Facilities Manager. “This change in our operating procedure has reduced our carbon footprint by the equivalent of 20 residential homes heated by natural gas each year.”

KAMLOOPS Kamloops Airport Grows in 2019 Kamloops Airport continues to experience overall sustained growth, surpassing last year’s record growth by 2.75 per cent and marking their best year to date.

A lt houg h passenger numbers declined in the 3rd and 4th quarters as projected, the year ended strong with 34,884 passengers being served in the month of December.

Their partners at Central Mountain Air, WestJet and Air Canada all contributed significantly to the continued growth and they expect continued growth in 2020.

They will be welcoming Swoop this spring and the nonstop seasonal service to Edmonton, further enhancing passenger travel options in 2020.

SEE NEWS UPDATE | PAGE 3

NEWS UPDATE / SALES

FEBRUARY 2020

NEWS UPDATE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

KELOWNA YLW Exceeds Two Million Passengers Kelowna International Airport (YLW) released its final passenger numbers for 2019, with figures showing airport travel surpassing two million passengers, securing tenth busiest airport in Canada for a second year in a row.

I n 2 019, p a s s e n g e r s totaled 2,032,144, a 1.3 per cent decrease or 26,886 fewer passengers than in

2018.

Y LW experienced unprecedented passenger growth from 2016-2018, mainly driven by expanded air service and flight conn e c t i v i t y, p o p u l a t i o n g row t h, a nd econom ic activity in the region. To help meet the needs of the growing region, YLW announced in December the next phase of its capital development program Soaring Beyond 2.5 Million Passengers.

As pa rt of the overa l l development, YLW will complete the following projects: expand the term i n a l by doubl i ng t he size of the existing departures area and expanding

security screening; design an apron expansion to accommodate larger and a g reater nu mber of a i rcraft; design upgrades to airside lighting and supporting infrastructure and purchase essential airside e q u i p m e n t, i n c l u d i n g equipment to clear snow from the apron, taxiways and runway Over the next 10 years, YLW anticipates a total investment of $293 million to expand and upgrade airport facilities, infrastructure and equipment.

This investment has no impact on tax dollars as it is funded through airport revenues and improvement fees.

3

HOW TO EASILY CREATE QUALITY BUSINESS VIDEOS USING SMARTPHONES

BE A DUMMY — STRUGGLE ON PURPOSE!

SALES

O

nce upon a ti me, there was a young kid who graduated from high school, took a look at the help wanted ads, went out on a couple of interviews, and, within just a few days, landed his very first job. He was hired as a salesperson by one of those big box stores.

They assigned him to the air conditioner and heater department. There really wasn’t a ny tra i n i ng to speak of, so on the morning of his very first day, he had no idea what to do when an elderly lady walked into his work area and said, “Can you please help me pick out a heater?”

He d id n’t even k now where the heaters were.

But he was honest enough to say, “It’s my first day, ma’a m. Fol low me a nd we’ll find them.” This disarming honesty caused the elderly customer to smile.

She followed him down a long aisle.

Before long, they found where all the heaters were stacked up on shelves.

He asked the woman what kind of heater she was looking for, at which point she started talking at length about what she thought she needed and where in her house she wanted more heat. T he you n g m a n pa id clo se attention to everything she said. He asked lots of

what happened?

W hen ma nagement pulled up the figures on sales in his department, they found that they had plummeted. Why? Because once the young man became an expert, he stopped listening and stopped asking questions. He started proving that he already had all the answers. He started delivering monologues. He started showing off all of that shiny new product knowledge about heaters.

He was no longer engaging people. He was no longer disarming. Now, he was just another sales guy showing off everything he knew.

His sales totals only went back up when he started to ask the very same questions he used to ask . . . back when he knew absolutely noth i ng about heaters.

Here’s the moral of the stor y. It’s okay to be a dummy on purpose . . . because being a dummy on purpose disarms and engages the prospect. And it’s okay to have lots of product knowledge . . . as long as you don’t try to share it all the time.

Don’t be afraid to struggle a little bit . . . on purpose. Don’t be afraid to ask the kinds of questions only a dummy would ask. This is actually one of the hallmarks of effective professional selling!

John Glennon is the owner of Insight Sales Consulting Inc, the authorized Sandler Training Licensee for the Interior of British Columbia.

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questions. When she asked him something about a speci fic heater that he couldn’t answer, he pulled the relevant box down from the shelf, read out loud from the box, and helped her figure everything out.

This, too, made her smile.

With the young man’s help, she settled on the heater she wanted. She was very happy with her selection. As they walked up toward the front of the store she asked, “Where do I pay for this?”

He looked around, and then said, “You know, I’m really not sure. Let’s figure that out together.” And she smiled again.

Eventually, he succeeded in getting her to the cash register with her purchase, and she checked out. On her way out of the store, she spotted a manager, walked up to him and said, “Do you see that young man over there?”

The manager nodded and said “Yes, ma’am, I do.”

“Well,” she continued, “I just want to make sure you know that he is an excellent salesperson.”

In the weeks that followed, lots of other customers seemed to agree.

T h a t yo u n g m a n v e r y quickly delivered the highest sales numbers the air conditioner and heater department had ever posted.

About a month after he had started on the job, though, management decided to send him off for training on all their heating and air conditioning products. He spent three straight days learning all about heaters. By the time he made it back to the big box store, he was a heater expert.

Fa s t fo r wa r d t h r e e months. Can you guess

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4

FEBRUARY 2020

SPRING WRAPS AROUND BC CHAMBER WEEK, CHAMBER AGM, NEW POLICIES

KELOWNA CHAMBER DAN ROGERS

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he Kelowna Chamber is getti ng out and about during BC Chamber Week February 18-21. We’re running what we referred to as CREW, (Chamber recognition and engagement week) where a team of dedicated Chamb er volu nteers took to the streets to engage our members and the business com mu n ity to fi nd out what is keeping them up at night and also to recognize some of our long time members in the process.

The project team is delivering milestone certificates, noting membership anniversaries in 2020 from ten to fifty years.

Chamber Week in Kelow n a me a n s not on ly CR EW, but also a postprov i ncia l Budget A nalysis the morning after on February 19; Business After Hours networking on February 20; and a Chamber luncheon examining the Future of Education on the 21st. Given that Chamber Week is only a fourday week this year, with Family Day kicking it off, that’s a pretty impressive to-do list – all in support of our members.

O f c o u r s e , Fe b r u a r y also means elections for Chamber board directors, and 2020 has delivered some stellar candidates for replacing retiring directors. Once our online election concludes February 28th, we’ll announce the new board, who join our incumbent directors who are carrying over. All will be sworn in under President-Elect Jeffrey Robinson of Rush Ihas Hardwick LLP. S k i p p i n g t o a l o n gstanding ask by our Chamber, and Chambers across the BC Chamber network in forestry policy, we were delighted to see that duties on softwood lumber are dropping in August by more than half (from US$67 per thousand board feet to about US$30 at current pricing levels.)

Canadian-based lumber compa n ies’ stock positions immediately rose (February 4, 2020) by as much as 7.5 per cent. A much-needed shot in the economic arms of the forestry industry in our area, and in BC. This isn’t the panacea that will solve all the challenges in the forest sector, but it helps.

T here was other good news in early February i n the fi xed rate mortgage field, when TD Bank lowered its five-year rate from 5.34 per cent to 4.99 per cent. This will help ameliorate the effects of the mortgage stress test somewhat, good news for buyers and sellers. Other banking institutions are expected to follow.

And then, a Federal Court of Appeal ruling February 4 removed the last active court hurdle to completion of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion. The court decision means construction, which is already underway, can continue, although the First Nations whose case was dismissed have 60 days to appeal to the Supreme Court.

The court said the Canadian government worked hard to address the specific c o n c e r n s o f t h e c o mmunities opposed to the pipeline. Not much more needed to be done, it said in the current ruling, which may be appealed.

The Chamber agrees that the “duty to consult” with Indigenous groups is important. The duty applies to lands where Indigenous claims to title are still in dispute and is a way for Indigenous groups to preserve their rights while these disputes play out.

Approval does mean another small step forward to getting this vitally important project on the way to completion and helping the many businesses and workers in British Columbia who are working in this, and associated industries.

During all of these events, our Policy Advisory Committee is working on drafting new policies to take to the 2020 BC Chamber AGM. We’ll be tabling policies on Hydrogen-powered light rail; wrap-around services for those suffering from addictions, mental health issues and homelessness; a policy on onetime ALR land release; and supporting a range of policies from other chambers from across the province.

Early February delivered some other good business news, not the least of which was (for many) Super Bowl 54. It’s hard not to notice the NFL – and the most powerful Canadian in professional sports uses big data and digital marketing to reach a new generation of fans. Maryann Turke, COO of the NFL, is a big believer in big data and big science, not unusual for a civil engineer who formerly built highways in Kingston, Ontario.

We were astonished when we read a comparison of the NFL average annual g row t h (11.6 p er cent) as measured against the Standard & Poor’s Index 500 (5.5 per cent). They’re absolutely equal in 1991; ten years later the NFL is pulling ahead; by 2014 the charted NFL value has left S&P far, far behind. Turke thinks the broadcast model is impregnable; the spinoffs are enormous, and affect Canada and Canadian marketing as well as internationally. If you follow media growth, streaming, and digital viewership – you’ll know that at only 3-4 per cent, this is one giant that any business with an eye on growth might want to get involved with. [Statistics source: Globe & Mail February 1, 2020] And of course, a shoutout to Canadian NFLer Laurent Duvernay-Tardif of Montreal (and the KC Chiefs) who will be getting a Super Bowl ring as not a licensed medical doctor, but as a right guard who came off the bench and played in the KC win, and said “This is amazing, this is my best moment ever.”

Nice.

My most welcome job when I finish this column is to recognize and welcome ou r new members who have joined the Chamber since the last time I wrote.

Alzheimer Society of BC; Focus College; Grand Irish Construction Inc.; Grizzly Bear Bistro and Bar; Insulwest Building Materials Ltd.; Metro Liquor; M ission Hill Winery & CedarCreek Estate Winery; Oakridge Shared Services; Sage Transitions; Thick as Thieves Entertainment Inc.; Twirling Umbrellas ltd.; Vacasa; WITS Metal Fab Inc. Welcome all!

Dan Rogers is Executive Director of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce

PENTICTON/VERNON

FEBRUARY 2020

5

NOMINATIONS SOUGHT

PENTICTON CHAMBER DIANE KERELUK

T

he Penticton a nd W i ne Cou ntry Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce it will be celebrat i ng t he 33rd a n n iversary of the Business Excellence Awards Saturday, October 3 at Penticton Trade & Convention Centre. The awards will be presented to outstanding businesses and indiv idu a ls i n recog n it ion of their commitment to continual improvement and pursuit of excellence.

T he Business Excellence Awards is an annual awards program t h at recog n i zes outstanding achievements by local businesses

and individuals in the private, publ ic a nd not-for-profit sectors.

Each year a local business is engaged to be the title sponsor for the event and this year the Chamber is pleased to announce Total Restoration Services as our 2020 Business Excellence Awards Fire & Ice Gala sponsor. Total Restoration Services provides disaster restoration 24 hou rs a d ay 7 d ay s a week services using the latest technologies and state-of-the-a rt restoration techniques.

Tracy Van Raes, Manager of Marketing and Community Relations states “We chose to be the title sponsor of the 33rd Annual Penticton & Wine Country Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards because it fits our profile perfectly. We strive to excel in everything we do – workplace culture, community impact and customer ser v ice. So when this opportunity came our way, there was no doubt in our mind

about steppi ng up to the plate and leading the event! As past winners of “Community Impact 2016” and “Workplace Cu ltu re Excel lence 2019”, we see the value in these awards.”

Sponsorsh ip opportunities are available fo r t h i s a n n u a l s i gnatu re event, em a i l events@penticton.org for details.

••• 2020 New Membership Drive Join and pay in full for 2020 before Feb 28, 2020 a nd enjoy these perks: Free enhanced listing first year; One complimentary Table Talk registration; One free E-blast; 500 business cards and ½ hr of design time from Graphically Hip for a total value of $250.

Visit w w w.penticton. org for learn more about the Penticton Chamber of Commerce Diane Kereluk is the Executive Director of the Penticton & Wine Country Chamber of Commerce.

101-2040 Springeld Rd | Kelowna, BC

250 860-0412 rovconsulting.ca

COMMUNITY AT THE HEART OF EXPO

VERNON DIONE CHAMBERS

D

oi ng bu si ness i n Vernon gets a posit ive sh i f t as city council makes changes to ease some of the regulatory burden for those with commercial vehicles.

On Jan. 27, Vernon city council voted to eliminate the yearly commercial vehicle license (CVL), which was required of any business that had advertising on a vehicle such as a company logo. The CV L was in addition to the annual business lic en s e a nd a p er m it to hoard parking meters for actual work being conducted downtown.

The Chamber and its advocacy committee raised the issue with the city after hearing from members that the CVL didn’t provide them with any direct

benefits. With the Union of BC Municipalities no lon ger s upp or t i n g t he program and the majority of municipalities in the Okanagan eliminating the CVL, the timing was right for Vernon to make a change and create a level playing field with other communities.

Keeping with advocacy, the Chamber has written to the federal government in support of producers of distilled spirits.

Specifically, we have requested that the federal govern ment match the small-distillery excise reduction in the U.S. which would mean a reduction of the federal excise tax on d i s t i l l e d s p i r it s to $1.77 per litre on the first 150,000 litres of absolute alcohol. This reduction was trialed in the U.S. to stimulate growth, and it has proven so successful, the U.S. administration has recently extended the initiative.

Currently, a distillery in Canada experiences an excise duty of $12.375 per litre of absolute alcohol, wh ich is equ iva lent of $3.71 per 750-millilitre bottle of spirit at 40 per

cent alcohol by volume, priced at $40CDN. We a r e h o p e f u l t h e federal government will embrace our vision as it would create employment at distilleries across Canada while also benefitting suppliers such as fruit and grain producers.

Beyond advocacy, the Chamber is busy preparing for its second annual Community Expo March 14. It is presented by Lake City Casino and Match Eatery & P ublic House and will feature business, non-profit and government ex h ibitors at Kal Tire Place North. Thousands of North Okanagan residents are expected to pass through the doors a nd th is mea ns a g reat opportunity for businesses to increase their profile. For more information about Community Expo, go to https://www.vernonchamber.ca/events/ details/community-expo-presented-by-lakecity-casino-match-eatery-public-house-3941 Dione Chambers is the GM of the Vernon Chamber of Commerce.

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Congratulations

Champion Award Winners Recruiting & Hiring Champion: RAM Consulting Ltd. (Vancouver); Workplace Culture Champion: Scott Construction Group (Vancouver) and Kinetic Construction (Victoria); Community Champion: Westcana Electric (Prince George); Initiate of the Year: Durwest Construction Management (Victoria); and Contractor of the Year: Westcana Electric (Prince George) and Chinook Scaffold Systems (Nanaimo)

Thank you for leading the way.

The Builders Code is a new baseline code of conduct standard for the construction industry. It defines an "Acceptable Worksite" as the starting point for reducing risk and ensuring a safe and productive environment free of hazing, harassment, and bullying. Learn more at builderscode.ca.

Join the first 100 companies already adopting the ‘Acceptable Worksite’ pledge: 360 Home Renovations • 3rd Generation Homes • Acres Enterprises • AFC Construction • AGR Solutions Ltd. • Alabaster Homes • Apex Granite & Tile Inc. • Armtec • BA Blacktop Ltd. • Belle Construction • BM Group International • Bricklok Surfacing & Landscape • British Columbia Construction Association • Brock White Construction Materials • C2 Imaging • Capri CMW • Central Interior Piping & Maintenance • Chandos Construction • Chew Excavating • Chinook Scaffold Systems Ltd. • CLAC • College of New Caledonia • Concrete BC • Corwest Builders • DHC Communications Inc. • DIV1 Projects • Durwest Construction Management • Eagle Homes • Edge Roofing Ltd. • EmryFormworks • ETRO Construction • Ex-cel Acoustics Ltd. • Finning Canada Inc • Flynn Canada • Green Emerald Construction • Greyback Construction • Hancon Construction • Harris Rebar • Harrison Industrial Construction • Hartman Business Machines Ltd. • Heritage House Gifts & Awards • HighStreet Ventures Inc. • HKR Builders • Houle Electric • IDL Projects Inc. • Inside Job Consulting • Insight Automation International • Interactive Electrical • Island Precision • Jawl Properties Ltd. • Juxtaposition Home • Kal West Electric • Kamloops Chamber of Commerce • Keller Canada • Kinetic Construction Ltd. • Knappett Projects Inc. • Lafarge Canada Inc • Leavitt Machinery • LNG Canada • LWE Builders • Macbeth Roofing • Maple Reinders • Metro Testing & Engineering • MNP LLP • Northern Development Initiative Trust • Okanagan Plumbing & Gasfitting Ltd. • OK Ready Mix • Orchards Walk • PG Nechako Aboriginal Employment Training Association • Pitt Meadows Plumbing & Mechanical Systems • Polycrete Restorations • Professional Mechanical Ltd. • PS Flooring & Tiling • Ralmax Group of Companies • Ram Consulting • RCABC • RF Klein & Sons Ltd. • ROV Consulting Inc. • Scott Construction Group • Sierra Landscaping • SkillPlan • Team Construction Management Ltd. • Thompson Rivers University • Tip Top Trees Ltd. • TransCanada Coastal GasLink • Venture Mechanical Systems Ltd. • Victoria Window Cleaning • Viking Construction Ltd. • Vision Mechanical Ltd • Waste Management of Canada Corp. • Weninger Construction & Design • Westcana Electric Inc. • WestCoast Appliance Gallery • Westcom Plumbing • West K Concrete • Wibco Construction Ltd • Wildstone Construction Group • Wilson M. Beck Insurance Services Inc • Wylie Crump Ltd. • Yellowhead Road & Bridge

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7

FEBRUARY 2020

CONSTRUCTION Construction Industry Builds A Better BC Industry Remains Strong In Spite Of Residential Slowdown

BY ROBERT MACDONALD

T

hey’re number one!

The construction industry, that is - and according to industry leaders, that’s a good sign for British Columbians.

The recently released BC Construction Stat Pack, released by the British Columbia Construction Association (BCCA) indicates that the industry is once again the number one ranked employer in BC’s goods sector.

With $115 Billion in construction currently underway, as well as $206 Billion in proposed construction projects, the industry accounts for 8.6 per cent of the province’s GDP. “There’s a tremendous amount of optimism for the industrial, commercial, institutional construction sector going forward,” says Chris Atchison, BCCA president. “A couple of major projects are getting into full swing up north, especially the LNG Canada project export facility.

“We’re currently employing almost 10 per cent of BC’s workforce, between trade, administrative, estimating, contracting positions, etc. These are high opportunity occupations that give British Columbians and those coming into the province an opportunity to earn more than a living wage. These are skill jobs, and there are lots of them in the province. With impending labour shortages, people should be considering the occupations that are presenting themselves in this industry.”

The province is currently home to over 25,000 construction companies (92 per cent of which have fewer than 20 employees), employing approximately 236,000 individuals. Of these, 180,300 are construction trades workers.

As mentioned above, the jobs provided in this industry offer substantial compensation, with the current average wage being $61,784.

In the coming five-to-ten years, BC’s construction industry is poised to experience some of the strongest growth in Western Canada.

By far, the non-residential project with the biggest industry impact is the ongoing liquefied natural gas (LNG) export facility.

On October 1, 2018 LNG Canada announced that its joint venture participants, Shell, PETRONAS, PetroChina, Mitsubishi

​ he LNG Canada export facility is the largest private project in Canadian history and will greatly T impact BC’s construction industry Corporation ,and KOGAS, made the final investment decision to build the LNG Canada export facility in Kitimat.

A report from the BCCA described the project as “a great milestone” for both the province and the nation.

“BC has been given the opportunity of a generation with the announcement of LNG Canada’s project in the Northwest, specifically in Kitimat,” said Atchison in a 2018 interview. “This project has massive implications throughout the entire workforce. The investment decision comes with a tremendous opportunity for the entire province to become elevated. All the industry is excited, and we’re excited.”

This is the single largest private sector investment in the nation’s history at $40 billion. With the announcement in early October, the province’s project value jumped 53 per cent, from $75 billion to $115 billion overnight.

With so much growth on the horizon, Atchison and the team at the BCCA are working hard to attract new employees to the industry, addressing the looming labour shortage issues.

“Even with so much good news, we’re still facing labour shortages, which are being reported in almost every region of the province,” he says. “Even with the slowdown in the residential

“There’s a tremendous amount of optimism for the industrial, commercial, institutional construction sector going forward. A couple of major projects are getting into full swing up north, especially the Kitimat LNG export facility.”

Chris Atchison is president of the British Columbia Construction Association

CHRIS ATCHISON

market, there’s growth in the industrial/commercial/institutional sector that needs to be accounted for. The construction industry is one of many industries that is facing challenges due to an aging workforce.”

BuildForce Canada’s 2018 annual report included the following summary of BC’s construction industry: “British Columbia’s near-term growth outlook is strong relative to other Western provinces, but much of the available surplus workforce released from Alberta when the oil price fell in 2015 and major project activity declined, has already been

absorbed in British Columbia or by other provinces. Relying on the supply of out-of-province workers may become increasingly difficult going forward. Meeting ongoing labour demands will be contingent on the industry’s ability to continue attracting and training workers from outside construction or from outside the province as many of the province’s major projects reach peak demand requirements. “ Thanks to initiatives by various local and provincial organizations (including the provincial

PRESIDENT OF THE BC CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATION

SEE CONSTRUCTION | PAGE 8

8

CONSTRUCTION

FEBRUARY 2020

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The Builder’s Code is helping to create a safe, more diverse work environment for incoming industry employees

CONSTRUCTION CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7

government and the BCCA), labour statistics are starting to trend in the right direction.

“Among teens, it used to be that one in 95 were choosing to come into the constr uction trades i n their first year out of high school,” says Atchison.

“Now, through tremendous effort and awareness campaigns, we’re up to one in 40. We’re moving the needle in the right direction here.”

Closely tied to the labour shortage is the high cost of housing, which is affecting residents of almost every BC community, especially those living in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland.

“Housing affordability throughout BC is a challenge, and is a significant deterrent for many who are looking to own homes not only in the Lower Mainland, but also in the Greater Victoria Area, part of the Okanagan, and even up North, when the economy starts to boom,” he says.

“We applaud the provincial government for their investment in low income and affordable housing, but there’s something missing, and that’s what we’re attempting to bridge.”

A recently-announced mortgage investment corporation (MIC) launched by the BCCA aims to make securing a mortgage easier for BC’s skilled tradespeople, medical care prov iders, educators, a nd emergency responders, wh ile at the same time provide the growing impact investment market with a tax-free vehicle that supports housing affordability.

A BCCA press release states, “Despite their indemand skills, steady employment and higher than average wages, thousands

of essentia l workers i n BC cannot afford to own a family home near their workplace. Often, they must either commute long distances to work, live in unreliable rental housing, or move elsewhere. This can leave employers with reduced access to skilled labour, create instability in families, and deprive communities of vital professional services.”

“Our goal is to create a social impact investment vehicle that offers value for investors while also helping tradespeople and other professionals to establish roots in BC communities,” Lisa Stevens, the BCCA’s Chief Strategy Officer, stated in the press release. “Guiding our approach is the belief that these highly skilled and hard-working earners should be able to afford housing, and organizations that employ and represent them are willing to invest in a financial vehicle that helps them succeed.”

One of the most promising strategies in addressing the labour shortage is the effort to increase diversity in the workforce.

For example, many industry professionals are ca mpa ig n i ng to create more inclusive workplaces to a c c om m o d ate for a growing number of female tradespeople.

Information compiled by the federa l government suggests that women comprise approximately 54 per cent of the nation’s workforce, but represent less than 10 per cent of Canadian construction industry employees – a statistic that may actually inflate a more disheartening percentage.

“I believe the statistics include women who work in the office and in administrative capacities in those numbers, and essentially lump all ticketed trades not

just construction trades under the overall umbrella of construction. This would include persons such as hairdressers, which are certainly not part of construction,” explained Katy Fairley, a Director with the Canadian Construction Association (CAA).

“If we were to drill down into those numbers, and from what I know through personal experience, the actual percentage of women directly working in the industry in an active role would likely be closer to five to seven per cent, so obviously there’s lots of room for improvement.”

In its recently released National Summary covering the years 2018 to 2027, BuildForce projected that the present skilled labour shortage that is impacting c o m p a n i e s a c ro s s t h e nation will continue to worsen.

In the summary of the BuildForce Canada report, Bill Ferreira, the group’s Executive Director said the industry has to take steps to head off a potential labour crisis.

“This decade, Canada needs as many as 277,000 construction workers to meet labour demands and counter rising retirements,” he said. “With these challenges in mind, the industry will need to step up recruitment efforts and do all it can to encourage far more new Canadians, women, and Indigenous people to join Canada’s construction workforce.”

For Fairley, while progress has been made, the present small percentage of female involvement is an obvious sign that there’s still plenty of room for improvement.

“There’s no escaping the fact that the older segment of our industry is leaving which creates a real SEE CONSTRUCTION | PAGE 10

CONSTRUCTION

FEBRUARY 2020

9

HIGH QUALITY, INNOVATION KEEPS KAMLOOPS PAINT AT TOP OF INDUSTRY “I love working with Benjamin Moore products, because they’ve always been at the top of the industry in terms of quality and innovation.”

Local Benjamin Moore Dealer Focuses on TopTier Products, Customer Service

K

AMLOOPS - For nearly 35 years, Kamloops Paint & Window Coverings Ltd. has been one of the Thompson region’s go-to suppliers for builders and homeowners.

Founded in 1985, the city’s Benjamin Moore dealer has remained locally owned, and focussed on providing surrounding communities with some of the highest quality paint products available.

Starting with the company in 1993, Aubrey Dangerfield worked h is way up i n t he company, eventually purchasing the location in 2009.

“I love working with Benjamin Moore products, because they’ve always been at the top of the i ndustry in terms of quality and innovat ion,” he says. “T he

AUBREY DANGERFIELD KAMLOOPS PAINT, OWNER

Kamloops Paint professionals are trained specialists whose experience and helpful advice will ensure the success of every project​ ingredients they put in are carefully selected, and Benjamin Moore manufactures their own resins, colors, and have helped move the industry forward with constant innovation.”

Recent ly, t he bra nd developed a new tint for waterba se d pa i nt s c a l le d Z ero

Volatile Organic Compound (Z ero VOC). T h i s sp eci a l tint was specially created to ensure that water-based paints remain eco-friendly even after they go through the tinting process, while ensuring the best possible quality.

T he store is staffed with

seasoned experts who take time to know customers on a personal basis. T hey see every project as important, offering advice and taking time to provide clients with the right products for the job.

“One of our sales reps has been in the paint business

longer than me, and helps ensure that newer staff get top-notch tra in ing,” says Dangerfield. “We’re very focussed on customer service, giving correct advice, and giving it the right way. We have by far the most experienced staff in Kamloops.”

K a m loops Pa i nt & Wi ndow Coverings donates to many local charities, giving back to their community in whatever way they can.

They directly support Habitat for Humanity, frequently donating products. www.kamloopspaint.com

The Builders Code – Building a Construction Industry that Works for Everyone

O

ur vision at the BC Construction Association is to ensure British Columbia is home to a world-class construction sector that demonstrates exceptional productivity and resilience.

This vision will be realized only if our worksites support all skilled tradespeople to perform to the best of their ability, free from the stress and distraction caused by hazing, bullying and harassment.

To help ensure a safe and productive worksite, the BCCA has partnered with key construction industry leaders and the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills, and Training, to introduce the Builders Code.

The Builders Code sets a standard code of conduct for all construction work sites in BC and defines an “Acceptable Worksite” as one where safety protocols recognize behavioral as well as physical threats, ensuring a productive environment for all workers.

When an employee wakes up in the morning and looks ahead to their day at work, they deserve to have a feeling of security, to know they will be treated fairly and with respect on the jobsite.

The construction sector in BC is booming, with the number and scale of projects contributing to a projected labour shortage of 7,900

“It’s so important for all our communities that we not only attract new workers to the construction industry but do everything in our power to keep them. Already over 100 employers have become official signatories to the Builders Code – they are establishing themselves as leaders when it comes to work culture and have an advantage in hiring and retaining skilled workers.”

LISA STEVENS CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER, BC CONSTRUCTION ASSOCIATION

Lisa Stevens, Chief Strategy Officer, BC Construction Association by the year 2028.

It’s so important for all our communities that we not only attract new workers to the construction industry but do everything in our power to keep them. Already over 100 employers have become official signatories to the Builders Code – they are establishing

themselves as leaders when it comes to work culture and have an advantage in hiring and retaining skilled workers.

I have had the opportunity to talk to construction company owners and employees across BC and it’s clear our industry is evolving rapidly.

W hether you a re a tradesperson or an employer in our i ndustry, please v isit w w w. builderscode.ca and learn about the benefits of participating in the Builders Code. Join the hundreds of other businesses partnering to build a construction industry that works for

everyone. By strengthening our industry, we strengthen our province, economy, and all British Columbians.

By Lisa Stevens, Chief Strategy Officer, BC Construction Association

10

CONSTRUCTION Build with the best.

BROCK WHITE HELPS BUILD COMMUNITIES IN OKANAGAN One-Stop Construction Supplier Has Deep Roots in Region

K

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www.BrockWhite.ca

FEBRUARY 2020

ELOWNA - If something is being built in Central Okanagan, Brock White is probably involved.

The one-stop, professionalgrade construction materials store is the supplier of choice for countless Okanagan tradesmen, contractors, and weekend project warriors.

T he ex pa nsive wa rehouse, along with its 2,000 square foot showroom, house construction supplies for everything from ground to roof.

They carry a wide selection of masonry products, including brick, natural stone and Cultured Stone products, and continue to deepen their range of landscaping products and accessories to meet clients’ needs.

Contractors count on Brock White Kelowna for their building envelope, waterproofing, insulation and roofing needs, as well as geotextiles, geo-membranes and erosion control. “ W hen cu stomers ca l l u s, they immediately get the sense that they’ve contacted the right people,” says Darwyn Graff,

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“Our staff has an incredibly deep knowledge of the products, so when clients ask questions, we can usually respond without hesitation.”

DARWIN GRAFF KELOWNA BRANCH MANAGER AT BROCK WHITE

Brock White’s Kelowna Branch Manager. “Our staff has an incredibly deep knowledge of the products, so when clients ask questions, we can usually respond without hesitation.”

Brock White was founded by Wayne Brock and George White in 1954 in Saint Paul, Minnesota. It has since expanded across North America, starting its first Canadian store around 25 years ago.

Today, they operate 14 stores across Western Canada, including seven in BC. Thanks to its wellorganized supply chain, clients

CONSTRUCTION CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

potential for women,” she concludes. We’re now acutely feeling what a labour shortage does to construction and it’s not a problem you’re going to fix by looking at only 50 per cent of the population, you simply have to put it on the table for the other 50 per cent as well, make it an option and women will recognize it and take it.”

This year, on International Women’s Day, the provincial government issued a statement along with industry partners including the BCCA, Industry Training Authority, WorkSafeBC and LNG Canada.

This statement announced a new initiative called the Builder’s Code, which “aims to retain more women in the construction trades by creating a supportive, inclusive work environment that works for everyone.”

One of the initiative’s primary goals is to have women make up 10 per cent of BC’s construction trades by the year 2028. This would make BC the first province in Canada to accomplish such a goal.

This code would include a voluntary standard code of conduct for all workers on construction sites in the province. It would also expand the definition of constr uction sa fety beyond physical standards to include stress or distraction caused by discrimination, bullying, hazing,

can quickly get their hands on specially ordered products, if they aren’t already on the shelf.

“I th i n k the sta ff I have is second to none,” says Graff, who has worked in the location since 2000. “It’s taken a while to build this team, and they are very hard working, great at listening to customers, and don’t need to be given a lot of direction.

The service this team offers is incredible. We know how to look after our customers and get them materials as quickly as possible.”

Brock White acquired the location in the summer of 2012, and since then, have helped increase business dramatically, with annual sales nearly tripling over the past seven years.

“We used to have a limited selection on the general contracting side of the business, but when Brock W hite took over, they opened us up to a huge range of products, enabling us to grow,” says Gra ff. “T he breadth of product we carry here is really impressive, and it has helped us attract a lot of new clientele.”

The store and staff have deep roots in the Okanagan community, and Graff and the team work to give back to their community.

Brock White is a member of local construction associations, and donates to local charities, focussing on supporting the charity initiatives of their clientele. visit ca.brockwhite.com or harassment.

“All British Columbians deserve the opportunity to share in the benefits of our thriving economy,” said Mitzi Dean, Parliamentary Secretary for Gender Equity.

“With a construction industry that’s booming and thousands of tradespeople needed, the Province is proud to support BC’s construction employers in making sure everyone on a jobsite knows what’s expected and can work safely and productively.”

Atchison is pleased with the industry’s response to the builder’s code.

“We have found more than 100 employer champions, and are getting attention from other provinces, and even south of the border,” he says. “People are watching what we’re doing, and this effort is making a difference.

“We’re changing the conversation. Employers are signing up, getting training, new policies, HR support - anything they need so we can ensure that anyone coming into the labour force can be in a safe, sustainable work environment.”

“We don’t want to lose even one employee due to workplace harrassment, hazing, discrimination, or bullying, and this initiative is a great way to create a better environment for the next generation of construction workers.”

To find out more, visit www. builderscode.ca and www.bccassn.com

CONSTRUCTION

FEBRUARY 2020

11

Men’s Health: Building Resiliency Men work hard for their money but historically not so much for their health. This is quickly changing. Now more than ever, men, their families and their places of work are investing in their social, physical & mental wellbeing.

Overall, men’s health is in bad shape. We die on average almost 5 years earlier than women with the last 10 years often in very poor health.

Furthermore, we currently account for almost 80% of suicides & overdoses in BC. But the good news is about 70% of men’s health is related to lifestyle factors and therefore preventable.

Part of the challenge for men is that we have been raised to be strong, stoic and self-reliant.

These are noble strengths and ones that are required for a lot of the work that needs to be done in industries like construction. But these traits can also get in the way of seeking help when things are not going so well.

Stress that results in depression, anxiety, substance misuse & risky behaviour can take years off a man’s life & his quality of life until then.

Jeff Conners, MSW RSW Counselling & Health Education 250.819.0316 • www.JeffConners.ca

For businesses, research shows that in three years for every dollar invested they can get up to $2.18 return on investment for workplace mental health programing. To keep competitive both from a bottom line and from an employee retention standpoint this is a good investment.

Business’s don’t only benefit from men’s wellness. Children, families & communities do better when men are actively engaged. In fact, everyone does better when men are healthy.

Men have not reached out because it was seen as un-manly and services have not understood or catered to men’s unique characteristics. That’s one of the reasons I have focused on men: I believe that men want to be healthy & happy.

There is nothing wrong with the strong silent type. But silence isn’t golden if you are holding it all inside. Businesses, families & the communities they are imbedded in all benefit from men being healthy & resilient.

Jeff Conners has a counselling & health education business in Kamloops.

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12

OFF THE COVER

FEBRUARY 2020

Brothers Manufacture World’s First Fully Digital Made Dentures PERFIT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

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models, wax carvings and fittings, and with all these steps, there was a high margin of error.

Steve & G eorge k new there had to be an easier way. While the crown and br idge sector i n Nor t h A merica was making headway with a 3-D scanning process, technology in Europe was much more progressive, so the brothers partnered with overseas companies to bring their idea to fruition. This meant dentures could be replaced in a matter of hours, versus up to five weeks. “ We p a r t n e r e d w i t h companies that were half way there and helped pull together all the information to produce our product,” said Steve.

It represented years of hard work, countless grant applications, hours of networking and raising over $2- million in funding. According to Steve, the National Research Council was their biggest supporter a s wel l t he A ccelerate O k a n a g a n . P ro d u c i n g the product as promised opened up a whole new world and garnered a lot of attention.

George has been a dent u r i s t s i n c e 2 0 03 a n d brother Steve joined him in 2007 after a career with E P COR . H i s d eg re e i n commerce was the perfect addition to George’s growing business, as they began Canadian Denture & Implant Centres, which grew to four locations in Calgary and over $2M in annual revenue.

Seeing the great opportunities in Kelowna, they sold their business in 2015 and moved out west to Kelowna. It was the perfect location to start a technology business and enjoy milder winters.

According to the 2017 Economic Impact Study done by Accelerate Oka naga n a nd Cent ra l Okanagan Economic Development Commission, the results showed a 24 per cent increase in technology business in the Kelowna area from 2013, employing a total of 12,474 workers. In 2017, there were 693 tech businesses in the Okanagan so Kelowna was a good choice.

T he Per f it product is unique in that it is fully digital, meaning it is made from 100 per cent digital

Digital Denture directly after milling – ready for bonding & finishing inputs (such as a 3D scanner), designed using Computer Aided Design (CAD) and milled or 3D printed usi ng Computer A ided Manufacturing (CA M).

In some cases, impressions no longer have to be performed or sca n ned, as images are captured in comfort with intra-oral sc a n n i ng, mea n i ng no more choking on impression material at the back of a patient’s mouth.

The technology is now bei ng used th roughout Canada, through their recent partnership with one of the largest denture clinics in Canada.

“T he Perfit system saves t i me, m a npower and cost. It is a win, win for any denturist,” Steve says. While implants are viewed by many to be superior, their starting cost is about $25,000, accordi ng to Cowbu r n. A set of dentures costs in the neighbourhood of $1,600 to $2,500. This technology also applies to full-mouth dental implants.

Dentures produced by Perfit are stronger because they are monolithic (one material), so teeth don’t chip off and dentures don’t break as often.

The process uses a 3-D scan, which allows for a greater degree of accuracy. The scan is captured by a program that allows a 3-D Printer to produce a set of dentures in a matter of a hours – or less. Perfit

has six patents that help with the workflow of the procedure and help with better capture of patient data.

“The material we use is stronger and the dentures are more accurate with the technology. Our milling machines are more than 100 times more accurate than a human hair.” said Steve.

In order to promote their product, the Cowburns h e l d a s ol d o u t I n te rnational Digital Denture Study Club in November, 2019, at Kelowna’s Innovation Centre with denturists and was attended by 130 guests. They’re planning to make it a regular event.

“Today 99.9 per cent of dentures are still handmade. The industry is hungry for digital advantages to keep up with the increase in demand generated by baby boomers.” Steve told Accelerate Okanagan.

P e r f i t i s c u r re n t l y a semi-finalist in the Angel Summit, an investor-led prog ra m prov id i ng i nvestment opportunities to businesses who get to do a Dragon’s Den type presentation. Perfit has passed the initial screening and quarter finals round and are now in the semifinals. Perfit has also been recognized as a finalist in the Business Excellence Awards for the last 2 years and top 40 under 40. www.perfitdental.com

DIGITAL/OFF THE COVER

FEBRUARY 2020

13

6 REASONS TO HAVE ACCURATE LOCAL BUSINESS LISTINGS

BE DIGITAL JOHN MACDONALD

N

othing is more frustrating as a customer than finding out that you have been given the wrong information about where a business is located. As a customer, how likely are you to give this company your business? Not very.

In fact, according to Placeable, 73 per cent of consumers stated that they lose trust in a brand when the online listing shows incorrect information.

1. Hours of Operation Matter Most In a study conducted by local data aggregator Localeze, hours of operation were noted as the most helpful feature in selecting a business during local search. 76 per cent of respondents reporting that they expect this information when searching and 61 per cent believe that it is a feature that helps them to select a business.

2. Business Listings are the foundation for strong SEO

Local search results are trusted sources of information for potential customers While most people would assume that the number one reason people do a search online is for the address or location of a business, the address is actually behind hours of operation as the second most desired information.

It bears repeating that if a business address is incorrect on listing sites such as Google or Bing, then customers will not be coming to your door. A simple thing such as the wrong number on a street address, or even the wrong town, can mean that a customer cannot find you.

3. Mobile Matters Accord i ng to Loca leze,

mobile-phone-based searches drive in-store purchases with more than 75 per cent of searches ending in a purchase—if a business has their listing details correct. Now if half of the people searching for a business listing on a local search engine, such as Google Local/Maps, can’t find the store’s business listing details, then the business is going to lose 100 per cent of their business.

4. Listings Need to be Linked to Websites M o re t h a n 6 0 p e r c e n t of online searches on platforms have a similar chance of ending in a purchase. While mobile

searches are becoming more of a standard in where a customer searches, a business owner should not discount the power of a complete, consistent and accurate listing that is reflective of the business website.

5. Cross Device Search Consistency is Critical The most important part of those mobile searches is accuracy. If someone cannot find your business in a local search or find inaccurate results while out and about, then your business has lost the chance for that browser to become a customer.

So having those listings correct in all of the device formats is a

must as we, and our technology, continue to evolve in the way we interact with local businesses.

6. Lead in Local Search Results Last but certainly not least is the fact that local search results are considered the most trustworthy. In a study by Neustar, it was determined that these searches, such as “used cars Nanaimo”, are what people do the most since they put that trust in local business more than big box, big website stores.

L oca l sea rches lend themselves to instant gratification and that interaction between browser and salesperson will c onve r t t h at brow s e r f rom someone who might get just the minimum to a loyal customer.

Those interactions are what lead people to local searches and the absolute necessity of getting your listings correct.

Trust leads to loyalty, which leads to more business, which leads to happy customers and business owners.

And it all starts with that correct listing in that customer’s local search.

John MacDonald is the Director of Business Development with the Business Examiner News Group.

Call him at 604.751.0819, or email BEDigital@businessexaminer.ca.

Manufacturer Owes Its Culture To A Passion For Customization SCORPION TECHNOLOGIES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

sales are split fairly evenly between American and Canadian customers.

Buchan’s passion for customization has substantially influenced the development of Scorpion. Over the years, the company has taken over two bays to expand the location it has occupied since February 2000. Today, they have a large pool of in-house technician talent, many of whom are capable of writing their own software. They also employ a “brilliant machinist” and a design tech who illustrates their customers’ visions.

Does the custom izationfocused team have a “make” that stands out as their most challenging or rewarding?

“It’s very hard to pin-point what would be our favorite or most challenging build as many can take several weeks in each department,” says Gallant. “But a recent example we did was for a company that makes training simulators for commercial aviation and the military.

“This particular simulator was being constructed in a virtual reality environment, which required us to replicate

The team at Scorpion Technologies are there from design to purchase. some of the controls used in a real-world helicopter. This required the expertise of several staff members to design, machine, and 3D print many of the components from scratch.”

In addition to serving unique

clients, Scorpion’s thinkers, tinkerers, and innovators also hope they spread the love of making to their community.

Especially its younger members, whom they have been known to help out with science

projects from time to time.

“I think staff will also tell you that helping local high school or university students with their school projects may not be considered as exciting to some,” says Gallant, “but

it’s extremely rewarding for all of us.”

The Technology Innovation Business Excellence Award is a strong indicator of what makes Scorpion Technologies so well-regarded a company.

But, according to Gallant, Scorpion’s most important sign of success is the way the company makes its clients feel.

“I hope we have made a name for ourselves with pride of quality and customer service,” she says. “We have amazing, loyal customers, some of whom have been with us since we first started.”

With some of those relationships spanning decades, the Scorpion team “have had the unique pleasure of getting to know customers, of hearing graduation stories, weddings, births of grandchildren.”

At Scorpion Technologies, a passion for customization and innovation is always balanced by care for individual people. “I think part of our success is understanding the people behind the businesses they represent,” says Gallant.

“It’s like the old saying, ‘Treat customers the way you would want to be treated.’ It’s definitely served us well.” www.controlgrips.com/

14

MOVERS AND SHAKERS

KELOWNA T he British Columbia Hotel Association recently appointed a new board of directors for 2020 which includes members from across the Province. From Kelowna, Ingrid Jarrett o f T h e Roya l K elow n a h a s b een app oi nted to the position of executive committee director on the board and Bryan Pilbeam, vice-president of Invictus Properties Inc. and general manager of the Delta Hotels

by Marriott Kamloops, will serve as board chair.

Aphrodite in Me Spa has moved to a new space at 153 Asher Road. Aphrodite owner and operator Dawn Thiessen has joined the team at Dimensions Hair Design Ltd. a nd is now open right next door to her previous location.

OLPH SCHOOL

Lakeside Brewery has earned city council approval to open in the Lakeview Heights strip mall on Anders Road. The brewery is required by city rules to have 40 parking stalls, t hou g h on ly seven a re designated for the brewery in the mall’s parking lot. Council granted the 33-stall variance, on the basis that the brewery’s busiest hours of operation are in the evening, when many of the mall’s other tenants are closed.

Mike Clarke has opened Ski Outlet Canada at 115 Highway 33, just in time for the winter sports season.

The shop has a full fleet of skis and snowboards available for rent, a full tune-up shop and discounted skis, snowboards, and accessories for sale.

Faith Based Environment, Academics, Athletics, Arts According to the Fraser Institute School Rankings for Elementary Schools in BC, OLPH School is one of the top academically ranked schools in Kamloops!

235 Poplar Street, Kamloops, BC V2B 4B9 Contact: 250.376.2343 www.olphschool.ca facebook.com/olphschoolkamloops/

Eric Ledding, Pushor Mitchell Lawyers LLP T he BC Branch of the Canadian Bar Associat ion (C B A B C) h a s a ppointed Eric Ledding of Pushor Mitchell Lawyers

FEBRUARY 2020

LLP to the Professional Issues Committee. T he committee was recently established to monitor, develop policies and make recommendations on behalf of the CBABC in response to issues in the legal profession arising in the Province.

Daniel Winer Daniel Winer has been appointed the new executive director of the Canadian Home Builders Association Central Okanagan. Daniel most recently worked for several startup companies including Refresh Financial and Compass Cannabis, where he was the director of marketing. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree specializing in marketing from York University.

The new Pur & Simple franchise open at #100 – 1575 Banks Road is the first BC location of the Mont re a l-ba se d f ra nc h i s e. T h e re s t a u ra n t owned and operated by Ken Kleindienst and Ryan Henley is the first of five restaurants that will open in the next few years.

BDO Canada has added Quinton Pullen to their team and promoted Sinead Scanlon to partner in the firm at #400 – 1631 Dickson Avenue. Quinton is a tax partner specializing in tax planning for ownermanaged businesses while Sinead is an audit partner with a diverse accounting background.

Voyager RV founder and president Rod Friesen was recently presented with the Gaylord Maxell Innovation Award sponsored by Lippert Components Inc. during the RVBusiness Top 50 Dealer Awards. The Lake country RV dealership was one of the first RV dealerships to have a website and was the first RV dealership in the province to have their full inventory online, as early as 1996.

Boosh Foods has created eight 100 per cent plantb a s e d , h e at a n d s e r ve entrees to serve customers looking for quick and healthy plant-based meals that can be ready in minutes. The company was founded by former Kelowna local Connie Marples and is located in Surrey.

Cheeba Cheeba’s opened for business on January 15th in a 2,000-square-foot space at 1 – 1812 Byland Road in West Kelowna. The new shop is West Kelowna’s second recreational cannabis store, offering pre-rolls, oils, edibles, extracts, tinctures and flowers. Cannabis-infused drinks are expected to hit the market at the store in the first quarter of this year.

Kelowna businessman T re nt K it s ch r e c e n t l y earned city council support to build a new winery on an eight-hectare property at 2830 East Kelowna Road. Council endorsed Kitsch’s plan to establish a 10,000-square-foot winery on the property and converting the existing cherry orchard to a vineyard. The project requires special permission from t he A g r ic u lt u ra l L a nd Commission for the winery to go ahead, given that the vineyard is not yet in production. Until the vineyard is approved, grapes for the proposed winery would be sourced from other locations.

Loca l web desig n a nd digital marketing business, Twirling Umbrellas, has been named as a finalist for Best Company in this year’s 17 th Annual Small Business BC Awards, hosted by Small Business BC. Winners will be announced on February 21st in Vancouver at the Small Business BC Awards Gala, sponsored by Canada Post.

Red Bird Brewing h a s plans to expand their operations to a nearby building. Currently located on Richter Street, Red Bird has subm itted plans to city council that feature not only the second building, but expanded parking SEE MOVERS AND SHAKERS | PAGE 15

MOVERS AND SHAKERS

FEBRUARY 2020

15

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

space that features 80 bicycle spaces, a new handicap stall and six additional parking stalls.

The 2020 Clean Beauty Awards, hosted by CertClean, has named two products from Okanagan Lavender & Herb Farm, a local, sustainable herb farming business, as finalists for Best Face Serum, and Best Lip Care. In addition to growing herbs and c re at i n g c le a n b e aut y products, the farm also hosts workshops, visits, and private bookings for events.

SALMON ARM Salmar Theatre h as added Joel de Boer to its team as the theatre’s new manager. He joins administrator Jody Jones, who was recently hired by the Salmar Community Association to replace former ma nager Daila Duford.

Joel previously worked with the local Rona store for almost 20 years and has helped out at the theatre in the past.

Home Comfort Centre is celebrating its 20th anniversary at 1860 – 10th Avenue SW. Piccadilly Terrace Retirement Residence recently celebrated its 15th anniversary at 810 10th Street SW. The residence offers independent, secure retirement living at a convenient location across from the Mall at Piccadilly and near downtown.

Hilltop Toyota has named Robert MacDermott the dealerships Product Advisor of the Year for 2019.

The dealership is at 2350 Trans-Canada Highway NE. On March 7-8th, the city of Salmon Arm will host this year’s national Rogers Hometow n Hockey event at Marine Park. The event will feature an outdoor viewing of a broadcasted N HL game with live Sportsnet hosts, Ron McLean and Tara Slone,

in addition to live entertainment, visits from NHL alumni and renowned local celebrities, as well as various hockey-themed activities. Leading up to th is event, the Salmon A rm Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Paint the Town Red Storefront Window Decorating Contest for local businesses to showcase their Canadian and hockey spirit. Judging for the contest will take place on Thursday, March 5th.

Salmon Arm business, Mismack Clean Cosmetics, has been named as a finalist for Best Youth Entrepreneur in this year’s 17 th Annual Small Business BC Awards, hosted by Small Business BC. Winners will be announced on February 21st in Vancouver at the Small Business BC Awards Gala, sponsored by Canada Post.

Copper Island Fine Homes, owned by Greg and Tracy Vistisen, took home three major awards at t he Ca nadia n Home Builders Association Central Interior’s 15th Annual Ke yston e Award s G ala on Febr u a r y 1st. Copper Island was awarded: Best Customer Service, Most Unique Design for a wine room project, and Best House between $1.5-3 million.

KAMLOOPS

Peter ter Weeme The BC Lottery Corporation (BCLC) has appointed Peter ter Weeme as its new vice-president of social purpose and stakeholder engagement. Peter assumes the role on February 10th working from BCLC’s Va ncouver office u nti l the summer when he will begin permanently working in the organization’s Kamloops head office. He

holds an MBA specializing in environmental management and has experience serving corporate, government and non-profit clients around the world.

Daley & Company LLP congratulates Adam Shatula and Christopher O’Donnell on successf u l ly complet i ng t hei r Common Final Exams on their journey to qualify as Chartered Professional Accountants. Daley & Company is at 200 – 206 Seymour Street.

K a m loops city cou ncil approved a cannabis store to open at 104 – 5170 Dallas Drive in the Dallas Town Centre building. The shop is the 23rd cannabis retailer to earn approval from council to open in the city, though only seven of those shops are open for business.

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Brian Daly T hompson R iver University has selected Brian Daly to succeed Christopher Seguin, the school’s v i c e-p re s i d e n t o f a dvancement who passed away in September 2017.

Daly will assume the role on May 1 as TRU’s vicepresident of university relations; a role that will s e e h i m c o m p l e te t h e university’s $50-million L i m it le ss f u nd ra i si n g campaign. Daly is the current president and chief executive officer of the University of Winnipeg Foundation, a role which he has held since 2011. He holds an MBA from the University of Toronto and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Winnipeg.

Kamloops’ third government marijuana reta i ler op ened at 450 Landsdowne Street, while Blossoming Buds Cannabis, another cannabis retailer, is preparing to open SEE MOVERS AND SHAKERS | PAGE 16

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MOVERS AND SHAKERS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15

in the former home of JJ’s Shoe Repair at 205 Tranquille Road.

Kamloops’ own Kelsey Olsen was one of 10 BC students na med to the National Honour Roll for their outstanding results on the multi-day national Common Final Examination (CFE). The exam was administered by the CPA Western School of Business in September and is a part of the CPA professional education program.

Marshall’s the clothing store cousin of Winners is expected to open this spring in the space previously occupied by Sears at Aberdeen Mall at 275 – 1320 West, Trans-Canada Highway.

A&T Project Developments is partnering with Invictus Properties for a new development in the downtown core. The Hive Kamloops will be located between Fifth and Sixth Avenues a long L a nd sdowne Street. The project will be a mixed-use space.

Construction is expected to begin in the Spring.

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S ol l & Co m p a ny a n d Cates Ford Epp have recently merged to become Cates Ford Soll & Epp LLP. The merged firm provides legal and mediation services from a new office is at 300 – 272 Victoria Street.

Harmon Hayden Law has moved to a new location at 1818 Gardiner Road. The law firm specializes in insurance and commercial litigation and provides mediation services.

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The BC Hotel Association has elected Bryan Pilbeam to serve as chair and a senior executive on the board. Bryan is the general manager of the Delta Kamloops Hotel and is the vice-president of Invictus Properties Inc. K a m l o o p s Fo r d L i ncoln announced that Jake G e l ow it z w a s t h e t o p salesperson of the month for the dealership at 940 Halston Avenue. Brent Lucente was the top salesperson at the dealership for 2019.

K ia Motors Kamloops a n nou nced t hat Justin Sommerfeldt was the top achiever of 2019 for the dealership at 880 – 8th Street.

PENTICTON R PR He at i ng a n d A i r Conditioning is the third

FEBRUARY 2020

Canadian recipient of the Bryant’s Circle of Champions Award, an award ty pica l ly awa rded to A merican Bryant dealers. T he awa rd recognizes companies for their excellence in the HVAC industry and contribut ion s to t he com mu nity. RPR Heating and Air Conditioning is at 154 Ellis Street.

Planning Manager with the City of Penticton and 10-year employee, Blake Laven, has been appointed to the position of Director of Development Services, filling the vacancy left by former director, Anthony Haddad.

Pent icton-ba se d Eco Ta x i h a s e x p a n d e d to K elow n a a nd pl a n s on expanding their fleet to serve Oliver and Osoyoos.

Starting off in Kelowna, ow ner a nd operators Parminder (Parm) Gondara and Raj Gill have put nine vehicles on the road.

M ichael a nd Heat her Kleyn a re prepa ri ng to open Ethos Parkour and Movement Inc. in a large warehouse at 647 Okanagan Avenue East. Once complete the warehouse will be home to their new Parkour gym, which will host a variety of classes as well as birthday parties.

Penticton city council vote d u n a n i mou sly to support Cannery Brewing’s patio expansion to t he P rov i nc e’s L iq u or a nd Ca n n abi s Reg u l ation Branch (LCRB). The proposed outdoor seating area would be open during the summer season and serve a maximum of 199 patrons for special occasions, while the brewery plans on serving a maximum of 80-90 patrons during regular service.

The current maximum occupancy is 146, including 36 on the existing patio.

Cannery Brewing is at 198 Ellis Street.

Okanagan College announced the addition of a new online course geared at training entrepreneurs interested in starting out in the cannabis industry.

The course teaches students about the fundamentals of recreational cannabis, different accessories in the market a nd reg u lations faci ng the ca n nabis i ndustry.

The first offering of the course runs from February 17 to March 20 while a second offering will run from March 23 to April 24.

The Mustard Seed Kamloops is planning on opening its thrift store at 346

Sey mou r St reet i n t he spring after closing down the shop seven months ago. T he shop is presently seeking gently used clothing, jewelry, décor, sma l l household items and more in preparation for the reopening. Diana Corriveau, with 25 years of experience in retail, has been appointed to the role of coordinator of the store. The shop is currently undergoing renovations and is expected to have a rustic and open concept esthetic once complete.

Ten isci P iva L L P a nn o u n c e d A sh leig h I nnis, CPA and Becca Kent, CPA, CA have been appointed managers of the f i r m a t 2 61 A V i c to r i a Street. Ashleigh graduated from the Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria in 2011 and earned her CPA designation in 2016 while Becca was born and raised in Kamloops and received her BBA from Thompson Rivers University before earning her designations.

T he Canadian Sport School (CSS) is preparing to open in Penticton in September to support high-performance secondary school athletes.

The school is operated in conjunction with PacificSpor t Oka naga n a nd School District 67, taking place during the school day at nearby locations away from the student’s school. CSS students attend morning blocks at t h e s c ho ol a nd s p or t s school for the remainder of the day, a model already implemented at its sister school in Kelowna which has been open for the past eight years. A special infor m at ion meet i ng for athletes, teachers, parents and coaches is scheduled for February 19.

SUMMERLAND Summerland Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for its 82nd annual Business Excellence Awards until Februa ry 14. Nom i nations can be made in 12 distinct categories to recognize outstanding achievements within the community.

The awards gala will be held at Centre Stage Theatre on April 4.

S u m m e rl a n d’s o w n Kettle Valley Steam Railway i s c e l e b ra t i n g i t s 25th anniversary in 2020 SEE MOVERS AND SHAKERS | PAGE 17

MOVERS AND SHAKERS

FEBRUARY 2020

MOVERS AND SHAKERS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

by updating its logo and hold i ng specia l events t h ro u g h o u t t h e s e ason to m a rk t he si lver anniversary.

Re/Max Orchard Count r y w e l c o m e s Te r e s a Braam to its team of real estate sales professionals at 10114 Main Street.

The Summerland Chamber of Commerce and the District of Summerland are conducting a “business perspectives survey� of the local business community between January – May of this year. The goal of the survey is to understand the current business climate, and to determine future action and priorities. Once the survey is complete, staff will compile a report for the community that outlines their findings and course of action for this year and beyond.

Okanagan Specialty Fruits Inc., the local apple company that is responsible for creating the Arctic apple (a non-browning variety), has been acquired

by US company TS Biotechnology Holdings, LLC. Okanagan Specialty Fruits hop es to ex pa nd t hei r market and product reach in the coming year.

Construction and real estate in the Regional District of Okanagan Similkameen came in over $48 million for 2019. The year saw 527 building permits issued, with 71 of those being single family homes, 35 for manufactured and mobile dwellings, 15 for recreational properties, 135 for accessory purposes, 121 for renovations, repairs and plumbing, and 19 for commercial use.

VERNON S u m m it T i ny H o m e s was one of five businesses named as a finalist by Small Business BC in the small business category for th is yea r’s awa rds.

Su m m it speci a l i zes i n building tiny homes and was selected from over 600 small business entrants to be a finalist in one of eight categories.

Finalists will pitch their b u si ne ss to a pa nel of experts from February 3 to 6, with winners being announced at the annual awards gala held in Vancouver on February 21.

Tanja Tulak has opened Tiny Bones and Scones Healthy Dog Treats for

business within Wet Spot Grooming and Pet Care at 4784 27th Street. Tiny Bones and Scones sells fresh sugar-free cookies, scones, cinnamon rolls a n d p op c or n b a l l s for pets.

Kelsey Wheelhouse Davidson Lawyers LLP welcomes Kelsey Wheelhouse to its team of litigators at 3009 28th Street.

Kelsey specializes in employment, labour and hu ma n rig hts law. She previously worked for a boutique firm, practicing employment law.

Dudley Coulter h a s moved from his position a s events a nd m a rketi ng coord i n ator w it h t he Dow ntow n Vernon Association to a new role as communications specialist with Splatsin First Nation. In his new post, Coulter will support the chief and council in raising the profile of the Splatsin Nation and will be helping with membership engagement.

Okanagan Skate Co. is pla n ning on reopening for business in the Alpine Centre on Kalamalka Road this month. Owner Steven Wach closed his downtown storefront in December citing more than $40,000 in merchandise over five years, break-ins, theft and a suspicious fire as being the reason behind moving the store.

The Mac’s Convenience Store at 27th Street and 43rd Avenue has changed to a Ci rcle K s tore, a s part of a nationwide rebra nd i ng by Alimentation Couche-Ta rd , t he Canadian multinational company that owns both brands.

Marilyn Courtenay has op ene d Ver non’s f i rs t board game cafÊ Boarding House CafÊ on the corner of 31st Avenue. The cafÊ has shelves stocked with more than 220 games and there are plans to open a dedicated room for Dungeons and Dragons as well as a special table for Warhammer 40,000 in June.

Vernon Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram announces that Landon MacKay earned the top salesperson of the month desig nation for

the dealership at 4607 27th Street. Congratulations to the dealership’s own Josh Greeno who recently earned his red seal automotive tech n icia n certification.

Bannister Vernon GM a n n o u n c e s t h a t Ch r is Allen has joined its sales team at 4703 27th Street.

Robert McLaren was named salesperson of the month for the dealership.

17

L EASING SPACE?

Royal LePage Downtown Realty welcomes Mario Bargetzi to their team at 4007 32nd Street. Mario has experience working in information technology and has built a real estate investment portfolio of his own over many years.

Wa t k i n s M o to r s a nnou nced t h at for t he s e c o n d y e a r i n a ro w, Lorne Pearson was named the top salesperson of the month. The dealership is at 4602 – 27th Street.

The Rock Garden Climbing Centre, Vernon’s only indoor climbing centre, a c q u i re d t he a dja c ent space to its facility and is in the process of expanding the available climbing area. Once complete, t he space w i l l i nclude 4,0 0 0-s q u a re-fe e t o f wall space offering a wide range of routes for all skill levels. The climbing centre is at #105 - 2450 14th Avenue.

Pleasant Value Dental welcomes Dr. Keith Hau to the practice at 2301 – 32nd Avenue. Dr. Hau has experience in all facets of family dentistry and is excited to now call Vernon home.

POWDR, an adventure lifestyle company with destinations across North America, announced it has acquired SilverStar Mountain Resort and will assume operations effective immediately. SilverStar is POWDR’s first mountain resort in Canada. There are no changes to 2019/20 season passes, cu rrent operations or the reciprocal agreements with other resorts.

Ve r n o n Toyo t a c o ngratulates Marty Taylor on being the top salesperson for the dealership at 3401 – 48th Avenue.

Summit Tiny Homes has been named as a finalist for Best Marketer in this year’s 17 th Annual Small B u s i n e s s B C Aw a r d s , hosted by Small Business BC. Winners will be announced on February 21st in Vancouver at the Small Business BC Awards Gala, sponsored by Canada Post.

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GREEN SHEET

URSEKAMLOOPS LOCATION visions When personal

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8150 Dallas Dr – Warehouse – Canadian Linen Distribution goals Depot are in alignment

PROJECT TYPE with team visions and industrial new PROJECT goals as well as company New warehouse and distribution

centre – 1 structure – approx

visions1,192 and a over 2 sm goals, – office space

floors and ground floor industrial spacesynergy – garage bays powerful is– concrete tilt up construction – surface parking.

created

PROJECT STATUS Construction start anticipated spring/20 – development permit approved.

ARCHITECT Larry Podhora Architect – 1952 Brackman Way, North Saanich 778-255-0276 DEVELOPER Krahn Group of Companies – 400 34077 Gladys Ave, Abbotsford 604-853-8831

KAMLOOPS LOCATION

941 7 St – Seniors Housing

of the vision and the attainment PROJECT TYPE of the goals.

Seniors housing Establish a plan of action to achievePROJECT the vision. It is posNew seniors housing – 4 storeys – sible to 54 move to units“what – studiois” andcloser 1-bedroom “what could – but not alone units –be” amenity room – scooter – 23abelow parkand notparking without plan.building The last ing and 10 above parking step in visioning is to ground establish a – fiber cement exterior, plan of action.

Develop thetimber goals frame entrance, aluminum decks that give andasphalt action to the andlife railings, shingles. vision. Here is where leader and STATUS followerPROJECT are joined in their comDevelopment permit application mitment to the vision. for new design approved.

Think about how your personal vision and goals fit with the vision and goals of your company.

Is it a good fit or a forced fit? The best fit is when your vision coalesces with the company’s vision. When you achieving your goals helps the company achieve its goals, synergy is created. Imagine what would happen if the vision of each team member coalesced with your vision for the team? What if their goals led to attainment of your goals?

If you were to set out to make some or all of your visions become a reality, what goals would you set to get there, in the real world? ■

SIMONE SUNDERLAND

15

GREEN SHEET BUILDING BRIEFS

DEVELOPER Excel Construction – 2930 13 Ave Sw, Salmon Arm 250-8328181 GENERAL CONTRACTOR Timberline Solutions Ltd – 1140 4 Ave SW, Salmon Arm 250-8046118

SIMONE SUNDERLAND

VERNON

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John Glennon OTA is thewas owner bothof honoured Insight Sales Consulting and grateful Inc., to have been byTraining the Outlook the authorizedinvited Sandler partnership with such licenseeGroup, for theinInterior of B.C. organizations such as Incredible Reach him at toll-free 1-866-645India, to participate and speak 2047 or at jglennon@sandler.com.

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Tourism Summit and Awards

sf units – wood frame construction – 1 level u/g parking.

PROJECT STATUS Construction start – framing and services underway ARCHITECT Lunde Architect Ltd – 3904 31st St, Vernon 250-503-3000

DEVELOPER Eagle Eye Investments Ltd – PO ARCHITECT PROJECT Box 338, Armstrong 250-549LOCATION Richard Hunter Architects – 500 5849 Silver Star Rd – BX 9411 New water treatment facility the dis153 Seymour St, Kamloops 250Elementary trict is currently testing several meth- School Expansion 372-8845 ods including membrane technology PROJECT TYPE LOCATION DEVELOPER DEVELOPER Institutional add/alter PROJECT STATUS 175 Kokanee Way - Ramada Copperview Properties Ltd Hotel – Makola Development Services 5775 Westsyde Rd, Kamloops – 104 550 Goldstream Ave, Design underway - Tender callPROJECT for PROJECT TYPE LOCATION New addition to BX Elementary Victoria 778-265-7489 General Contractor anticipated 4119 Lakeshore Rd – Townhouses GENERAL CONTRACTOR commercial new school – approx 14,000 sf – 10 July/14 - construction completion Trophy Developments Ltd – 3273 GENERAL CONTRACTOR – Condominiums – Rentals new classrooms – building envePROJECT late 20151410 D & T anticipated Developments – 204 Schubert Rd, Kamloops 250-318LOCATION lope upgrades.

PROJECT TYPE New Ramada Hotel in the Campbell Pearson Place, Kamloops 2504192 CONSULTANT 2241 Springfield Rd Mission Multi-family new Creek industrial park - 4 storeys 372-2852 PROJECT STATUS Crossing Westside Tender Call for trade contrac3,780 sm - 80 rooms - restaurant - pool Opus Dayton Knight - 255 1715 PROJECT Dickson Ave, V1Y 9G6 250-868-4925 tors under review – construction with waterslide - elevators - concrete PROJECT TYPE New phased rental accommodastart anticipated spring/20.

OWNER construction - roof articulation with commercial new tion – 6 structures – 2 and 3.5 porte cochere - asphalt shingles - 98 District of Sicamous - 1214 ARCHITECT PROJECT LOCATION storeys – approx 26 townhouse surface parking 975 Singh St –stalls Condominiums LOCATION Riverside Ave, Sicamous V0E MQN 2V0 Architects – 100 3313 32 units – approx 71 condominium New commercial urban lifestyle 481 Harbourfront Dr NE – – Affordable Housing – First Ave, Vernon 250-542-1199 250-836-2477 PROJECT STATUS units – 1– and 2-bedroom units centre 6 buildings 2 to 7 storeys Commercial – Residential Nations – Kikekyelc PROJECT MANAGER GENERAL CONTRACTOR – 625 sflevel to 886 sf units – total Construction start anticipated late - retail commercial at ground Sawchuk Developments Ltd PROJECT TYPE PROJECT TYPE approx 85,545 2014 MHPM - 550 555 W 12th Ave, with office units above - undergroundsf total – balcomulti-family new mixed-use dev V5Z 3X7 604-714-0988 – 486 Adams Rd, Kelowna 250nies –short u/g and surface parking Vancouver parkade - 80 above ground ARCHITECT 765-3838 PROJECT PROJECT term parking stalls – horizontal and vertical fiber DFNew Architecture - 1205 cement and brick veneer exteriaffordableInc housing for4871 FirstShellNew mixed-use development – 2 PROJECT STATUS Rd, Richmond 604-284-5194 Nations youthV6X and3Z6 elders –1 structures – 2 storey residential ors.

Development permit application structure – 2 storeys – 31 units building – 1 storey garage – 2 DEVELOPER PROJECT STATUS submitted – studio, 1 bedroom and 4 acces- to 3 commercial units on main Prism Incunits – - 3571approx Barmond floor –LOCATION Construction start – Phase 1, sibleVentures 1 bedroom 2 residential units on 2nd ARCHITECT Ave, Richmond V7Efloor 1A4 604-338-4656 interior and exterior work under18,408 sf – each to have floor, To 3-bedroom units – -approx Be Determined Ice Facility Ekistics Town Planningway - 1925 Main common area – common laundry 11,347 sf total – surface parkfor 12 units – Phase 2, develOWNER PROJECT TYPE St, Vancouver V5T 3C1 604-739-7526 ing – manufactured stone, fiber LOCATION and kitchen – common round opment permit submitted.

Prism Hotels and Resorts - 800 institutional 3255 Okanagan St, Armstrong – cement, stucco and add/alter metal siding room – office – live in caretaker DEVELOPER 14800 Blvd, Dallas ARCHITECT Condominiums – ParkPlace – fiberLandmark cement and wood beamTexas exterior.

PROJECT R366 Enterprises Ltd -Meiklejohn 4870B Chute, 75254 214-987-9300 Architects Inc exteriors – asphalt shingles – NewSTATUS ice facility for the Greater PROJECT PROJECT TYPEKelowna V1W 4M3 250-764-8963 (Kelowna) – 233 Bernard Ave, glazing and balconies – surface Construction multi-family new Vernon start area –toBuilding replace 1, the aging GENERAL CONTRACTOR parking.

Kelowna 250-762-3004 interiors and exteriors underway Civic Arena - 4,000 seats - may be PROJECT Lambert and Paul Construction Ltd PROJECT STATUS an addition to Kal Tire Place or themultifamily development – DEVELOPER New ARCHITECT 300 2000 Spall Rd, Kelowna V1Y 9P6 Construction start – interiors Priest Valley Arena–or construction of Sawchuk Developments Ltd Marc Lamerton Architect 102 condominiums – 1 structure – 3 250-860-2331 LOCATION and exteriors underway a newAve ice NE, facility – 486 Adams Rd, Kelowna 25020 Hudson Salmon Arm storeys – 18 units – 2-bedroom 451 Shuswap St - SD 83 North Okana-250-515-4801 765-3838 units – approx 1,250 sf to 1,350 PROJECT STATUS ARCHITECT BlueGreen Architecture Inc (Kamloops) – 2 436 Lorne St, Kamloops 250-374-1112

KAMLOOPS

KAMLOOPS

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SALMON ARM

VERNON

NORTH OKANAGAN REG. DIST.

SALMON ARM

gan Shuswap Administration Building

OKANAGAN SIMILKAMEEN REGIONAL DISTRICT

Feasibility study and cost analysis study anticipated shortly - the institutional new Greater Vernon Advisory Committee will decide in June whether or not to PROJECT hold a referendum in November/14 New administration building on the construction event held in January in New 1631 by we change our mindset from a to fund astarted new iceinfacility - location, oldDelhi.

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PROJECT TYPE

THINKING WITH YOUR MIND AND YOUR HEART

THOMPSON OKANAGAN TOURISM ASSOCIATION

FEBRUARY 2020

beyond themselves, that may be here long after we are gone. It takes courage and risk to combine these thoughts, of moving PROJECT STATUS ence. I could not have been more theirOWNER away from what is known, what 14th child. The building thinking? LOCATION Site work underway warmly welcomed, nor found took 12 is easy, what the Thompson years to complete and48th the Ave,One step for Vintage Boulevard, Okanagan Fallsis- cookie-cutter, but City of Vernon - 1900 a more gracious and engaging gardens another 5, but without Okanagan is Vintage the commitment to it might just be the recipe for the ARCHITECT Views Vernon V1T 5E6 250-545-1361 people whether through intertourism pledge en- development of the extraordinary MQN Architects - 100 3313 32 Ave, question, as you experience it to- the regional PROJECT TYPE acting in meetings or with those day, centuries later, you can feel titled “7 Affirmations for 7 Gen- and many, many more wonders in Vernon V1T 2E1 250-542-1199 subdivisions a small step down this world to come. on the streets. the enormity of care and thought erations.” It is OWNER broaden how we For very good reasons, this that went into its creation. As the that path to help I would also like to make spePROJECT greatDistrict place is83 branded School - North‘IncredOkanagan story is told and as is apparent approach things and pushes us cia l ment ion a nd t ha n k ou r New subdivision - 30 SFD lots ible’ and if you have never Shuswap - 220 Shuswap St NE,had when you are there, the Emperor to begin to understand the cause Royal Roads practicum student the opportunity to travel to this poured his heart and soul into it, and effect of PROJECT what happens today Anirudh Kukrety for showing STATUS Salmon Arm V1E 4N2 250-832-2157 country, it is a destination you intending to create a symbol of and the positive me some of his favourite spots in or negative ef-anticipated Construction start PROJECT MANAGER to come. should try not to miss. and around New Dehli. Anirudh their life, love, and marriage and fects for generations June/14 There is nothing wrong with was back visiting his family and While being there in itselfAve, was intentionally designed to both Stantec - 400 1620 Dickson LOCATION OWNER and thinking I really appreciated the local exvery special, has been a life celebrate and share their story quick thinking Kelowna V1Y 9Y2it250-860-3225 2425 Orlin Rd - that Addition to the w ith ou r heads; it View ma kes us perience long dream of mine to visit the with the generations would Vintage Developments c/oand knowledge. We look Village at Smith Creek forward to■ having him back at agile, adaptable strong.

Taj Mahal and I was fortunate follow.

Robertand Milanovic 250-492-5939 that during this quick trip it was It made me wonder, PROJECT TYPE when did But what if we combine that TOTA in February. able to happen. This Mausoleum we stop making wonders, push- with thinking into the future seniors housing is considered one of the greatest ing our limits and not settling for by thinking from our hearts — PROJECTHow do we chal- thinking with forethought, pas- Glenn Mandziuk is President and LOCATION architectural masterpieces in the just enough? lenge ourselves more sion, and care.

Chief Executive Officer of the world and in 2007 was named Addition to to thethink Village at Smith Creek 524 Dabell St - Mara Lake Water as we build the legacy the winner of the New Seven long term seniors housing facility1,810 The sm -two 4 together may just make Thompson Okanagan Tourism Treatment Facility tourism industry, us wiser, Wonders of the World (2000- of ourstoreys - 23 units - 8prodadditional u/g cause us to create things Region. He can be reached at ceo@ PROJECT and experiences?

How do that 2007). ItTYPE was commissioned and ucts, parking stalls - fibre cement boardlast, that make people think totabc.com.

DISTRICT OF WEST KELOWNA

SICAMOUS

Jeff Boschert 1-800-667-1939

industrial new

exterior - 4th floor stepped back as gables

250-545-5344

OPINION

FEBRUARY 2020

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PUBLISHER | Lise MacDonald EDITOR | Robert MacDonald SALES | John MacDonald – john@businessexaminer.ca, tarique@businessexaminer.ca WRITERS | Beth Hendry-Yim, Kristin van Vloten, Val Lennox WEBSITE | John MacDonald

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR BUSINESS IS TARGETED WITH NEGATIVE ONLINE NEWS

MARK MACDONALD

T

oday, we live in the “wild west” of the social media age, where the line between right and wrong is blurred at best, invisible at worst.

One of the greatest casualties in western society today is the loss of the presumption of innocence.

This profound, absolute bedrock of our justice and society, where everyone is presumed to be innocent until proven guilty, has been flipped on its proverbial head.

Today, the way everything rolls out with social media, people are presumed to be guilty, and must prove that they are innocent. It’s a fundamental twist, a seismic shift on how we look at our fellow citizens. If you’re accused, you’re guilty. You must be.

That, often is the first snowball, on its way to a full-blown avalanche as social media acolytes are quick to pile on and add volume to the chorus.

I n “ t h e go o d old d ay s”, a

dignified, gracious response was the way to battle false accusations.

Or even, in some cases, saying nothing worked well.

But in today’s online world, taking the high road of less resistance can mean yet more ammunition from accusers, further burying you or your company in piles of vicious comments and even worse accusations.

Countering lies with the facts, immediately, is the best strategy.

Match untruth, punch for punch, with truth.

What kept print and conventional media “honest” over the years was not necessarily the virtue of the news departments – it was the threat of expensive lawsuits and fines for little things like libel and slander. Media legal seminars drove home the point that reporting must be fair and accurate – as it should – keeping in mind that at the end of the day, it is a business. And a very expensive one if one ends up spending profits in courtrooms trying to defend shoddy reporting, or for broadcasting inaccurate statements and quotes.

Online libel and slander is only now starting to become punishable by fines. American cable network CNN recently settled out of court after a Midwest teenager was falsely accused when in fact they were a victim, and the

cacophonous outrage directed at the young man was deafening.

Other charges against other news outlets are being pursued.

Judgments like these begin to draw a financial line in the sand between what is and is not acceptable in terms of journalism.

This could, and should, help those maligned online.

But everybody doesn’t have the time or necessary finances to fight such battles, if they ever should come. Is there anything we can do in the meantime to defend our companies and reputations if they are assaulted and damaged online?

Yes there is. It will take a bit of work, but it is effective.

Let’s say your company has been slagged online with bad reviews, reports, or just plain vindictive comments from one party or another. They’ve taken the time to post it, and at the moment, without legal intervention, there’s not much in terms of leverage to get them to take the comments down.

But that doesn’t mean you have to live with it.

Basically, online comments are the property of the original source, and they can keep them up or take them down at their leisure. They may want to keep them up.

If we look at the first page of Google as a Rolodex (remember those?), it may help us see a straightforward solution. The

negative posting is most likely there because it’s new and fresh.

The best way to combat that is to “drown it” with good news and postings, to push it off the front of Google back to the nether regions where only the hardiest of online trolls tread.

That can be done by having a list of satisfied customers who would be willing to write something positive about your business or service, and post it on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or. . . As soon as something unjustly negative is posted about your company, enlist the assistance of your friends to do the opposite. If they engage and issue words of support and appreciation, it can quickly drown out the negativity, and present your company in its proper light, preserving and maintaining your hard-earned reputation.

Waiting until the perpetrators have a conscience check and decide to take back their inaccurate words is a poor strategy at best.

What if they are really wanting to harm your business, as opposed to just complaining out loud?

Time is of the essence, and you would be well-advised to have someone monitor social media postings about your company, and notify you immediately if some negative words need to be countered and corrected. You can’t afford to wait.

I know of one business who had a former customer (presumably) write a scathing review several years ago that has never been challenged by the business. To this day, three years later, the negative report remains as one of the first items to show up in a Google search about the firm.

Has there not been anything positive to be said about that company in three years? Obviously there must be, otherwise they wouldn’t be able to stay in business. But they haven’t countered the bad news directly, and it still sits there, waiting for the eyeballs of prospective customers who scour the internet before deciding when and where they should shop for goods and services. How many customers has that company lost, only because an online “shopper” saw the negative review, thought there was some truth to it, and decided to take their money elsewhere? They will never know.

Quick responses are the absolute best way to eliminate the sting of online attacks, and at the same time, an opportunity is presented – to show your business off through positive testimonials, which also douse the flames of negativity.

Try this recipe, as it is very effective: One bad post? Replace quickly with six good posts.

Rinse, and repeat.

TRUDEAU TAX RELIEF PLAN WILL DO LITTLE FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH

FRASER INSTITUTE JAKE FUSS AND FINN POSCHMANN

A

ccording to a Parliamentary Budget Officer (PBO) report released recently, the federal government’s plan to increase the basic personal income tax deduction will cost nearly $7 billion annually when fully implemented. This is not only higher than what the Liberals anticipated during last fall’s election campaign (and in the December fiscal update), it also means the government’s

policy choice will add to the debt load of Canadians.

In December, Finance Minister Bill Morneau announced that the government would gradually increase the basic personal amount – the amount of money Canadians can earn before paying income taxes – to $15,000 by 2023-24.

At the same time, the gover n ment i nd icated it wou ld offset this ta x reduction for Canadians making more than about $150,000.

T h is isn’t a pla n ma ny ta x policy experts would put at the top of their to-do list. For most Canadians, the increase in the basic amou nt is the same as lump-sum tax relief. That’s fine as far as it goes but it means they get no boost in their after-tax returns from taking on an extra shift at work. They face the same old tax and clawback rates.

I n rea l ity, because the i ncrease in the amount will be clawed back from taxpayers in the fourth tax bracket, those

taxpayers get a tax rate hike. The hike is small but because these taxpayers by definition already face a very high tax rate – more than 45 per cent in most provinces – the economic damage is disproportionately large, adding many tens of millions to the cost of the plan.

And the plan’s cost is already high. Originally projected to begin at $2.9 billion in 202021 and eventually reach $5.6 billion at the end of the fouryea r per iod, t he PBO’s new projections suggest the cost will be higher. For the next four years, it puts the total at $20.7 billion – almost $3.5 billion more than estimated in the Liberal Party platform.

It’s unfortunate that the government chose a tax relief plan that will do almost nothing for economic growth. What makes it far worse is that the costs of this plan will be funded by borrowed money.

The federal government is already running persistent deficits

and forecasts show no end in sight. This means increasing the basic personal amount will be financed entirely through more borrowing. In other words, more debt for Canadians.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s tax approach stands in stark contrast to that of past Liberal governments.

In his 2000 budget speech, then-finance minister Paul Martin said “tax reductions should not be financed with borrowed money.” The Liberal governments of the mid-1990s and early-2000s instead focused on balancing the budget and returning small surpluses before lowering taxes on personal incomes, businesses and capital gains.

Of course, the tax relief implemented by Jean Chretien and Martin increased incentives for Canadians to work, save and invest, and helped spur a decade of good economic growth. But the government didn’t borrow to do so.

The government has chosen a much different path today, increasing debt and deficits to finance more spending and tax relief. Because the government continues to borrow more money, the proposed tax cuts are not cuts at all but punts to future taxpayers who will face higher marginal tax rates than otherwise, with ensuing economic losses.

Far better would be a spending plan that quickly delivered balanced budgets, swiftly followed by tax rate relief for all Canadians. That would set in motion a virtuous economic circle, with much better results for our future selves and children.

Chretien and Martin understood that tax reductions generally should not be financed with borrowed money. Trudeau and Morneau would do well to follow this example.

Jake Fuss and Finn Poschmann are analysts at the Fraser Institute.

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