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New BNI Chapter Forming in Victoria

Feb 03, 2012

(News Release) VICTORIA — Business Network International (BNI) Is forming a new chapter in Victoria and is looking for proactive and successful business owners who have a desire to increase their market share through word-of-mouth referrals. 

BNI is a professional marketing organization specializing in word-of-mouth referrals. BNI’s structured system of giving and receiving referrals creates a supportive and trusting environment for developing mutually beneficial business relationships. These contacts and relationships are transformed into solid referred business.

This well-tested program has more than two decades of experience and is international in scope, spanning over 40 countries worldwide and with more than 125,000 members.

There are more than 250 chapters across Canada located in most major communities.

Take the opportunity to substantially increase your business through BNI’s referral program. We are currently looking for various professions to join our group.

For more information, call Rachael Paul at 250-727-9191 or e-mail rachael.paul (at) investorsgroup.com.

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White Knight Delivers Charitable Makeover

Feb 02, 2012

(News Release) VICTORIA — White Knight Painting Ltd. has chosen the recipient of its fourth annual Charity Paint Giveaway.

Bridges for Women Society will receive $3,000 worth of painting and repair services that will help transform the look of two of its classrooms.

Each year, the Victoria-based painting company invites members of the community to nominate causes they feel would benefit from a fresh look. Past recipients have included the Cridge Transition Centre for Women and the Single Parent Resource Centre.
 
This year, White Knight Painting has teamed up with the Vancouver Island Stagers, Stylists, and Re-designers, a dynamic group of professionals who meet monthly to collaborate and share their expertise. Each classroom at Bridges will receive necessary repairs and a fresh paint job courtesy of White Knight Painting. The transformation will also include new cabinetry, a new furniture arrangement and 28 new vision boards from the Vancouver Island Stagers, Stylists, and Re-designers.
 
Jan Bate of Bridges says, “The work that we do here is very important, difficult work, and the women who come here make a choice to look at their history and do some personal healing. That requires a lot of hard work, both from them and the staff. When members of the community come forward to help us, we’re so grateful. This is a community of support and shows us that the community is right there with us … It’s totally wonderful.”
 
Many of us don’t think about the impact that our environment’s appearance has on us. An upgraded, inviting atmosphere with the right colour and layout choices can lift our spirits and help us look at the world in a more positive, productive manner, Bate adds.

“The changes will make the rooms feel homey rather than institutional,” says Diana Zinck, project manager and president of The Stage Coach.
 
Bob Fuchs, president of White Knight Painting Ltd., says, “Giving back to our community is extremely important to us. By teaming up with the Vancouver Island Stagers, Stylists, and Re-Designers, I feel that we’ll be able to give Bridges a new look that they’ll be able to enjoy for years to come.
                                                                   
Work will take place over the coming weekend and is expected to be complete by Monday, Feb. 6.

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Campaign Raises Over $6,000 For Charity

Feb 01, 2012

(News Release) VICTORIA — Harbour Towers Hotel & Suites' annual Friends in Need campaign raised $6,111 during the holiday season to benefit Santas Anonymous in Victoria.

Friends in Need raised over $78,000 in Canada for local charities across all SilverBirch Hotels & Resort properties.

“We would like to thank our guests, associates, and partners for their support of the Friends in Need program that benefits Santas Anonymous,” says Ian Jones, general manager of Harbour Towers Hotel & Suites.

“The successful holiday program benefits an incredible organization that focuses on children within our community and the Harbour Towers Hotel & Suites is thrilled to kick-off the New Year with a donation to an amazing local program.”

As part of the hotel’s December promotion, the Harbour Towers Hotel donated $10 from room reservations during the week of Dec. 21-27 to Santas Anonymous. Associates at the hotel also got involved and donated $5 to wear their jeans every Friday in December and hotel guests donated a loonie or toonie on their room charge, all of which is included in the funds raised for Santas Anonymous.
 
“C-FAX Santas Anonymous Society has helped children in need, no matter what the need, year round, for 34 years in Greater Victoria and this is not possible without the support of our community and special supporters like the Harbour Towers Hotel & Suites,” says Christine Hewitt, executive director for the C-FAX Santas Anonymous Society.

“The Harbour Towers Hotel has pledged their commitment year round to the Greater Victoria community, with a focus on Santas Anonymous through various programs and we are sincerely grateful for this relationship. We will apply this special gift of $6,111 to programs directly benefiting children in need in our community. Thank you Harbour Towers Hotel & Suites.”

Since 2000, SilverBirch properties have raised $1.1 million in local donations through Friends in Need. This campaign is a part of SilverBirch’s “Hotels with Heart” social responsibility program which also includes educational internship programs with culinary and hospitality training schools and implementation of the Hotel Association of Canada’s Green Key ECOmmodation program.

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Real Estate Sales Up in January

Feb 01, 2012

(News Release) VICTORIA — While the average price for a single-family home in Greater Victoria softened slightly (by 3.62 per cent) in January 2012 when compared to January 2011, sales over the same period have increased by 9.4 per cent.

“These numbers definitely match what we have been hearing from our members,” says Carol Crabb, president of the Victoria Real Estate Board. “Showings have increased, sales are slowly increasing, and there is a sense of optimism among area realtors.
 
“Buyers are still price sensitive and very aware of the market values of homes. Sellers need to be aware that average prices trending up or down may not apply to their market area. They should consult with realtors regarding prices in their own neighbourhood communities.”
 
The number of active listings continues to decrease from a high of 5,094 in July 2011, creating more balance in the market. When supply exceeds demand, buyers can afford to be choosier and wait for the right house, at the right price.
 
“That said, buyers seem to be tired of all the doom-and-gloom stories about the global economy,” Crabb adds. “Interest rates are good and they are keeping our members busy with showings.”

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Sendial Program Celebrates 25 Years

Feb 01, 2012

(News Release) VICTORIA — After 25 years serving thousands of housebound customers across Vancouver Island, Saltspring Island, and the Lower Mainland, Thrify Foods president Jim Dores today marked the 25th anniversary of Sendial, the company's volunteer-run shopping service.

“Sendial is unlike anything I have ever seen offered in this industry and we are proud to be part of such a critically important service,” says Dores. “Sendial, with its long and vibrant history, is more than just a weekly grocery delivery service — it is also a lifeline to many, and I want to thank each of our over 600 dedicated Sendial volunteers for the services they provide to our customers.”

Started in 1987 by Thrifty Foods customer Prue Cunningham and Thrifty Foods co-founder Alex A. Campbell, Sendial is a grocery shopping and home delivery service geared towards individuals who have been injured or have some other physical impediment to prevent them from easily accessing or independently shopping in the stores. Sendial volunteers call customers, take orders and shop for groceries during the week. Thrifty Foods Home Delivery Drivers then assist by delivering the orders to the doors and, in some cases, into the homes of those in need.

“At the beginning I envisioned 30 volunteers and a few orders,” wrote Prue Cunningham in 1988. “After just one year, we now have about 55 volunteers and average one hundred orders a week.”

Today, the Sendial program includes over 600 volunteers and averages 1,000 grocery orders weekly. The service is currently available in 25 Thrifty Foods stores, and Sapperton, the newest store to open under the banner, is scheduled to launch Sendial in the New Westminster area in spring 2012.

As part of the 25th anniversary, Thrifty Foods also celebrated the efforts of five volunteers — Birnie Braithwaite, Ted Dever, Lorraine Harrington, Norma Lewis, and Norma Wilson — who have been part of the program since 1987. The celebration is part of an annual tradition to recognize years of service in the program. To view a digital history of the program, click here.

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Bosa Breaks Ground on Promontory

Jan 31, 2012

(News Release) VICTORIA — Bosa Properties Inc. officially broke ground yesterday on Promontory at Bayview Place, a 21-story condominium tower overlooking Victoria’s Inner Harbour. When completed, it will be the city's tallest building. 

Sharing the honour with Bosa Properties President Colin Bosa was Victoria Mayor Dean Fortin and the master developers of the Bayview Place neighbourhood Ken and Patricia Mariash, from whom Bosa Properties purchased the development site for Promontory last spring.
 
“This is an exciting day for us at Bosa Properties and for the hundreds of men and women — most of them local — who will be employed here as tradespeople to construct the 177 homes at Promontory over the coming two years," says Colin Bosa.

“We’re incredibly proud of this project, and do not take lightly the responsibility that comes from constructing such a prominent tower in one of Canada’s most cherished settings. The Inner Harbour is a beautiful and special place, and we will work hard to ensure that this addition to the landscape is a successful one”.

“We’re also very pleased to be a part of Bayview Place, and have strong regard for the work that Ken and Patricia have done here — Promontory is but the second phase of Bayview Place and more great things are in store here,” adds Bosa. “We are anxious to bring to life what we believe is an exceptional development project in an extraordinary location.”

The Bosa Properties Foundation also announced a further investment in the local community yesterday, as part of its $177,000 charitable commitment that comes from the commencement of Promontory. Colin Bosa announced support of the James Bay Community Project and presented funding in the amount of $10,000 at today’s event.

“Thanks to the Bosa Properties Foundation, our grassroots community organization will be able to continue to offer support to parents and their children through our family resource programs that promote healthy parenting, mutual support, and the importance of play. Accessibility to information and support for all parents is key to nurturing successful healthy lives in our community,” says John Vickers, vice-chairman of the James Bay Community Project, who accepted the funds on behalf of the organization.

“The Bosa Family Foundation made our Christmas extra special this year and we are grateful for their gifts of generosity and compassion to our community — a community that we now proudly share.” 

Mayor Dean Fortin echoed the community welcome to Bosa Properties. “I’m pleased to welcome Bosa Properties to Victoria and to help launch this exciting residential project. What really resonates for me as mayor is the investment in our community they are making with both the commencement of this project and the launch of their charitable foundation here in Victoria. Promontory will make a lasting and impressive statement on our inner harbour, and is an important next step in the continued evolution of this neighbourhood.”
 
“The thoughtful planning and creation of this neighbourhood is extremely important to us, as Patty and I have made Bayview our home,” says Ken Mariash, principal of Focus Equities and master developer of Bayview Place.

“We are extremely pleased to see Bosa Properties commencing construction here. Bayview Place is moving forward and the future looks bright. We’re looking forward to making other exciting announcements in the coming months.”

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Students Take Honours in Commerce Games

Jan 27, 2012

(News Release) VICTORIA — UVic Gustavson School of Business bachelor of commerce students are thrilled at their performance at the Jeux De Commerce (JDC) West Business Competition held Jan. 14-15 at the University of Alberta.

The students took top honours in academic case competitions and were first place finishers in two other significant categories.

The games focus on several areas of leadership, including academics, athletics, social, and charity. This year, more than 500 business students from 11 western universities participated.

In academic case competitions, where students must quickly analyze and present solutions to business problems across a range of subjects, Gustavson students earned a first for non-profit, a second in human resources, and took a third in accounting.

The team of 47 students also placed first in participation, which recognizes the efforts of the entire team based on attendance, sportsmanship and citizenship, and they won a first in “social,” which resembles an Amazing Race style of competition.

“JDC West is an invaluable experience for young business students. We learn through solving cases instead of through a text book,” says Derek Juno, co-captain of the JDC West team. “Ask any student who’s been — the weekend is one of the most beneficial and memorable weekends of their university career, and for some, their life!”

“The competition is fierce and students worked very hard,” says Dr. Dale Ganley, coach and assistant professor at the Gustavson School of Business.

“Our students demonstrated leadership, adaptability and passion, which is the focus of our programs, and that’s what put them on the podium.”

JDC West is the largest student-run business competition in Western Canada.

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Modest Employment Gains Expected

Jan 27, 2012

(News Release) OTTAWA — Although the labour market stalled in the final few months of the year, over 250,000 jobs were created in Canada in 2011, according to the Conference Board of Canada's latest Metro Help-Wanted Index.

Job markets in many Canadian cities followed a similar pattern, as 18 out of 26 census metropolitan areas (CMAs) posted increases in employment last year.

Although the Conference Board’s Metro Help-Wanted Index shows that near-term prospects are positive or stable in most cities, the uncertain global economic climate and the moderate economic growth that Canada has experienced in recent months suggest that any gains in the labour market are likely to be modest.

Near-term employment prospects are positive in 11 cities, stable in 12, and negative in just three.

Prospects remain bright in the resource-rich West, where they are positive or stable in all eight CMAs. Moreover, Western labour markets are tight, as evidenced by a low indicator of labour market tightness. This ratio, which measures the number of unemployed workers to the number of online job ads, sits below the Canadian average of 2.2 in every Western Canadian CMA except Abbotsford–Mission.

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Chamber: Consultation Missing From Report

Jan 26, 2012

(News Release) VICTORIA — The Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce is encouraged by the recommendations contained in the ferry commissioner’s report on BC Ferries, but is concerned about the lack of recommendations to implement major route consultation.

“The ferry commissioner spent months meeting with community groups and gathering feedback but had no scheduled meetings with communities served by the major routes,” says Chamber CEO Bruce Carter. “We were able to secure a meeting but as it was added after the completion of the planned meeting schedule. BC Ferries has 13 advisory committees, none of which relate to the major routes.”
 
The Chamber is concerned that while small communities have ferry advisory committees to help them maximize the value of service to their community, Victoria and Nanaimo do not. The recommendations contained in the commissioner’s report do not include the formation of such advisory committees.

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Huge New Development Breaks Ground

Jan 25, 2012

(News Release) COLWOOD — League Financial Partners this week broke ground on Capital City Centre, a $1-billion mixed-use development located in Colwood that, when completed, will be Vancouver Island's largest-ever development.

The $250-million first phase of the 13.89-acre project (to be built out over 20 years) will be developed in three sub-phases (1A, 1B, and 1C) over the next five years. Phase 1A will include a four-storey residential building over a new 35,000 square foot London Drugs, a five-storey office building, and three additional retail buildings. Phase 1B will feature a 26-storey residential tower, making it the tallest building on Vancouver Island. Phase 1C will include a second 26-storey residential tower, a four-storey residential mid-rise building, a 33,000 square foot grocery store, and additional retailers.
 
The heart of Capital City Centre will be its civic plaza, a public gathering space for the community. It will play host to a variety of events and festivals, such as local farmers’ markets, arts and crafts shows, and live entertainment. The civic plaza will be completed as part of the first phase.

“We have taken the time necessary to responsibly develop this project and will continue to do so throughout the phases,” says Adam Gant, CEO of League Financial Partners. “Our vision is that Capital City Centre will be an urban village that encourages residents to be outdoors and to take part in the community’s vibrant lifestyle.”
 
At the height of construction, the project will generate employment for approximately 500 construction workers. Employment in the region is expected to double by 2026, fueling a strong demand for housing, recreational facilities, retail stores, and services.
 
“The City of Colwood is becoming recognized as one of Canada’s most economically dynamic and attractive regions,” says Colwood Mayor Carol Hamilton. “We’re excited to have a project as significant as this reflect that acknowledgement.”
 
Capital City Centre is situated next to the Royal Roads University (RRU) campus. As part of the development, LEAGUE will donate 1,500 square feet within the first office tower. RRU is expanding its program offerings and is increasing domestic and international enrolments. The university is founded on strong community partnerships and will examine opportunities to use the space to support its educational priorities.
 
“Over the last 17 years, we have graduated close to 17,000 students who apply their education in organizations and communities around the world. We are constantly looking at new ways to expand our presence in our local communities,” says Allan Cahoon, president of Royal Roads University. “This project builds on successful examples of collaboration on the West Shore. We congratulate LEAGUE and all its partners for this ambitious project.”
 
The project is conveniently located on the approved alignment of the future rapid transit system that will connect the West Shore municipalities to downtown Victoria. Additional amenities include the Royal Colwood Golf Club, the Olympic View Golf Club, and the Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre. LEAGUE is also building a connection from the site to the Galloping Goose Trail, with an anticipated completion date of spring 2012.
 
As currently planned, after the 20-year build-out period, the community will total 12 residential towers, ranging in height from 16 to 29 storeys, four-storey wood-frame residential buildings located above retail units, two-storey townhomes, multi-storey office buildings, and a public plaza that will feature retail and restaurant facilities. It will also be one of Canada’s largest urban projects on a contiguous site.

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CRD Invites Input on Strategic Plan

Jan 24, 2012

(News Release) VICTORIA — The Capital Regional District (CRD) is inviting input on its 2012-2014 strategic plan.

The newly elected CRD board, which represents the regional interests of Greater Victoria, the Peninsula, the West Shore, and the three electoral districts of Salt Spring Island, Southern Gulf Islands and Juan de Fuca, will be working on drafting its new Strategic Plan over the next few months.
 
To help inform this process, the CRD is conducting an online questionnaire which will provide residents, business owners, and stakeholders with an opportunity to express their opinions on what really matters as they go about their daily lives and business in the region. This input will help shape regional initiatives considered critical to our environmental, social and economic sustainability.
 
Available through the CRD website, the questionnaire aims to identify stakeholder needs and expectations as well as more specific preferences regarding new programs and services, investment in modernized infrastructure, improvements to the way regional government operates, and improved relationships. The questionnaire adds to input being collected from partner agencies and stakeholder organizations throughout the region, as well as regional directors and municipalities. The goal of this information collection strategy is to derive a more balanced understanding of needs, expectations, and desired outcomes for the region.
 
Input will be accepted for a three week period beginning Jan. 23 and concluding Feb. 10, and will ultimately help inform the strategic plan and priorities over the next three years.
 
The CRD strategic plan aims to address the needs of the region while fostering a sustainable future. Setting new plans and priorities for the region will benefit from surveying what stakeholders think about what matters and how things are currently done.

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DMO Accreditation for Tourism VI

Jan 24, 2012

(News Release) NANAIMO — Tourism Vancouver Island has been awarded accreditation from the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP). 

DMAP is an international accreditation program developed by the Washington, D.C.-based Destination Marketing Association International (DMAI). In earning the DMAP accreditation, destination marketing organizations (DMOs) communicate to their community, buyers, and potential visitors that their DMO has attained a significant measure of excellence.
 
“Tourism Vancouver Island is honoured to receive the Destination Marketing Accreditation from DMAP,” says Dave Petryk, president and CEO of Tourism Vancouver Island.

“We are very pleased to be recognized in the destination marketing community for providing outstanding services in accordance with international standards and benchmarks in this field.”
 
“By applying for and receiving DMAP accreditation, Tourism Vancouver Island has demonstrated a commitment to quality programs and services,” says James T. Wood, DMAP board chairman. “Earning DMAP accreditation tells the Vancouver Island community and potential visitors that your DMO has attained a measure of excellence assuring that their trust is well placed and their business in good hands.”
 
Tourism Vancouver Island is one of six regional destination management organizations in British Columbia that represent Tourism British Columbia through the delivery of co-operative marketing and community development programs.

DMAP accreditation standards cover a wide variety of topics including governance, finance, management, human resources, technology, visitor services, group services, sales, communications, membership, brand management, destination development, research/market intelligence, innovation, and stakeholder relationships.
 
DMAP is an independent international accreditation body and a leader in defining quality and performance issues in destination marketing.

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Sante Spa Among World's Top 100

Jan 23, 2012

(News Release) VICTORIA — Spas of America has ranked Bear Mountain Resort's Sante Spa Victoria as one of its Top 100 Spas of 2011.

 

“Sante Spa Victoria was our 29th-ranked spa in Canada, and 97th globally,” says Dagmar White, relationship manager at Spas of America. “We feature over 180 Canadian spas among the 800-plus spas on our website, so (their) achievement really stands out.”

Spas of America compiles their annual ranking of the Top 100 Spas of 2011 based on consumer behavior on their website. The success of Sante Spa Victoria in the ranks was determined by the number of unique page views from spa and wellness customers from across North America who viewed Sante Spa Victoria’s listing on Spas of America.

“At Sante Spa Victoria we are committed to best practices and delivering the most memorable guest service,” says Jen Spencer, spa director at Sante Spa Victoria. “We are proud to be recognized for last year's hard work and achievements.”

The Top 100 Spas of 2011 includes 67 spas in the United States, 30 spas in Canada, and one spa each from Mexico, Costa Rica, and Italy. Spas offering escape, rejuvenation and wellness in outdoor settings continue to prove popular with spa consumers.

“We are proud to be listed as one of the top Canadian spas for these reasons and look forward to another successful year as Victoria's Mountain Escape,” says Spencer.

Sante Spa Victoria is also the proud recipient of the 2011 Sustainability Award from Leading Spas of Canada, for outstanding commitment to sustainable practices. Sante Spa Victoria and sister pas Santé Spa Calgary and The Spa Ritual are three of only 16 spas in Canada awarded the Quality Assurance Approval designation by the Leading Spas of Canada’s pilot program to establish national standards of safety, quality, and hygiene.

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