Issuu

PENINSULA

2014

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

SIDNEY, NORTH SAANICH & CENTRAL SAANICH

WINE KITZ was established in Sidney, by Derek and Donna Finlayson, in May 2002. They are locally owned and operated offering over 40 years combined experience and knowledge in wine-making. They are an Independent and Exclusive Dealer of WINE KITZ products and Authorized Dealer of top brands like Cellar Craft, Cheeky Monkey and Niagara Mist. WINE KITZ is a division of Global Vintners Inc. which is owned by Andrew Peller Limited. WINE KITZ is one of the most well-respected wine-making retailers in Canada. They invite you to visit their store and enjoy quality wines from grapes sourced from vineyards around the world.

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

#5A-2042 Mills Road West, Sidney 250-654-0300 www.winekitzsidney.ca

S’ A READER PENINSUL S ARD CHOICE AW EST “B R O F R E WINN IMPROVE PLACE TO ” 9 YEARS E YOUR SMIL G RUNNIN

Serving Victoria and Sidney for over 25 years Dr. Donald J. Neal would like you to join him in welcoming his son Dr. Trevor C. Neal to the Dental Team! Trevor has been practicing dentistry in the US for over 3 years and will bring new expertise to share with our patients. Welcome home Trevor! To schedule a personalized new patient appointment please call 250.656.4848 or visit our website. Open Monday – Thursday 8 – 5 AND NOW FRIDAYS 7 – 4

#213-2506 Beacon Avenue, Sidney 250.656.4848 | www.landmarkdental.ca

Your community partner in Waste Diversion

Are your cans in good hands?

Rick, how did CCR come about? In March 2009, the local waste company that I had been working for over the past fifteen years had recently sold and I decided to buy a small garbage truck and started looking for residential and commercial customers. Now, almost six years later, we have three full time trucks with the latest being a split truck which we needed to comply with the CRD “kitchen scraps” recycling program. Why did you take on a partner? With the new kitchen scraps program beginning this fall, I knew that I needed help, and knowing that Ron Schwab was available and looking to get back into the business, I contacted him and we soon joined forces. Ron brings over thirty years of experience to the table and having working for him for fifteen years, I knew that we worked well together. How does your service differ from that of other waste

companies? Our policy is to place the lids back on the containers once emptied and lock them down, which prevents the lids from blowing away in a storm. For those customers that occasionally forget to put out their garbage, we try honking the truck horn or phoning to see if anyone is at home and, if no response, we will have the driver look for the garbage and bring it to the curb and, if all else fails, we will try to go back for it the next possible day or whenever it is convenient for that customer. Our drivers will also clean up any mess from an overturned garbage can or a bag that was torn open by an animal. My personal wish is to have a company that provides great service at a fair rate and a place where myself and my co-workers can take pride in the work that we do and have fun doing it!

Now collecting Kitchen Scraps with household waste in our new two compartment truck. Programs starting as low as $5.50/month.

Call Rick or Ron for a quote Saanich Peninsula

In 2001 Cliff McNeil-Smith purchased Tanner’s Books and The Children’s Bookshop from Clive and Christine Tanner, who continue to own Beacon Books and The History & Military Bookshop, and are all part of the 6 bookshops in Sidney Booktown! Cliff and the team of experienced booksellers carry on the Tanner’s tradition of providing a remarkable selection of over 20,000 new books, magazines and related merchandise items. Customers also have the convenience of browsing and ordering online from an enormous selection of millions of titles at tannersbooks.com. Friendly and knowledgable service is another hallmark at Tanner’s. The team of dedicated booksellers are always happy to make a recommendation for your next great read, help choose just the right item to give as a gift, or place an order through our quick special order service. Visit Tanner’s Books during our convenient store hours of 8am to 9pm seven days a week or online anytime at tannersbooks.com. We look forward to serving you soon!

Tanner’s Books: Bringing Books to the Community for 32 Years

Open 8 am - 9 pm Daily! 2436 Beacon Avenue, Sidney BC V8L 1X6 250.656.2345 | tannersbooks.com

NEW BOOKS NEWSPAPERS MAGAZINES MUSIC JOURNALS MAPS AUDIO BOOKS PUZZLES BOOKMARKS CALENDARS NAUTICAL CHARTS GAMES WRAPS GREETING CARDS GIFT CERTIFICATES SPECIAL ORDERS

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

250-652-5008

Taking care of business

ast year’s anticipation of good things to come has given way to some very good things indeed. While some of those are out of the Saanich Peninsula’s control — like an upswing in the U.S. economy and more travellers coming to Vancouver Island — more and more success can be attributed to the hard work of local business owners and operators and the advocacy organizations they belong to. Take the Sidney Business Improvement Area Society (SBIAS) for instance. After growing pains in 2013, they have hit their stride in 2014. Marketing efforts they have made, while coinciding with that uptick in the economy, have been well-timed. With events on the horizon, customer service forums planned and constantly updated marketing, more people from throughout the region are discovering what Sidney has to offer. In the meantime, the Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce is seeing new opportunity arise from not only the SBIAS’ efforts, but from all the talk about commercial competition on the Peninsula. Projects in the works at Jesken, Sandown and the Airport lands, while years away from reality, have businesses thinking differently. The chamber calls this an opportunity that could really turn the tide. Inside this special publication, you can find a mix of stories and advertisements from a variety of businesses serving and supporting the community. Read about how two area business owners are improving their brand. The Bleue Coyote in Brentwood Bay is growing while not forgetting their roots, while Spelt’s Gas Station and Coffee Shop is not resting on its 40 years of history in Saanichton. Enjoy the Peninsula News Review’s Business Profiles edition for 2014.

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— Steven Heywood, editor

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A pipeline to prosperity on the Peninsula

Downtown business group at your service

Central Saanich pub owners just love it

40 years in business in Saanichton

Postings Denture Clinic Ron Postings R.D., Robin Postings R.D., Tan Nguyen R.D. The Denture Clinic is here to reenergize and revitalize your smile. Let the Denture Clinic team design a personalized treatment plan to bring back your smile and function. We provide Precision/Standard full, partial and implant supported dentures. The professionals at The Denture Clinic will take you through the complete denture process. They provide full services at their two locations: • Full & Partial Dentures • Same day Relines & Repairs

• Dentures Over Implants • No referrals necessary

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

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

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

www.postingsdentures.com

&Lace

Sweet Talk

Lingerie, Loungewear & Intimate Apparel The days are getting shorter... the nights are getting colder. Time to visit Sweet Talk & Lace for some fall and winter cozy pj’s, robes, slippers and view our delightfully pretty chemise and nighties that will make you feel just so very special. Let manager Hazel Mowat and her experienced staff members, Bea and Lorraine, help you select lingerie and loungewear that not only fits well but lends a feeling of glamour and well-being. Why not! You deserve the best and the best is what we carry. Diamond Tea, Calvin Klein and Kay Anna just to name a few, plus a selection of sensual silk. Our new fall stock of cozy and warm nightwear is arriving daily... lots to see... lots to choose from... just in time for the upcoming festive season. And don’t forget that our staff are professional bra fitters that will transform your silhouette, enhance your well-being and allow you to feel your best. We offer Chantelle, Felina, Wacoal, Calvin Klein, Warner’s, Triumph, Olga, Wonderbra and Coobie, the popular comfort bra. We guarantee a good fit! We offer free gift wrapping with purchase and a layaway program that lets you place a deposit and make payments until Christmas… Visit us soon!

2424 Beacon Ave., Sidney, B.C. 250-656-1002 www.sweettalkandlacelingerie.ca

VERSION: 04

CLASSIFICATION: INSIDE FRONT COVER

DIRECTORY: SAANICH PENINSULA CLASSIFICATION: INSIDE FRONT COVER

AD SIZE: IFCP VERSION: 04

ARTIST: MICHAEL CHOW

DATE: SEPTEMBER 19, 2012 ARTIST: MICHAEL CHOW

Let our Success and Experience work for you!

Clair Downey Clair Downey

Let our Success and Experience work for you!

Service Service

"Old Fashioned Service for Today's Automobile" "Old Fashioned Service for Today's Automobile"

’s

Cheryl and I are most excited and blessed to be proprietors of Canoe Cove Joe’s (formerly Canoe Cove Restaurant). We believe it to be a hidden gem close to the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal on Canoe Cove Road, just off Lands End Road. We’ve been most welcomed in the Canoe Cove community by our neighbours – Blackline Marine, Canoe Cove Marina, Canoe Cove Manufacturing, Campbell’s Boatyard, Clear Marine, Jesperson Boat Builders, Seapower Marine, Stonehouse Restaurant, Morgan Warren Art Gallery, Raven Marine – we look forward to many years of business together! Our staff (Scott, Heather, David, Karen, Sarah, Alex and Michelle) will work hard to ensure you are pleased with your meal and service, whether on our licensed patio or cozy indoor dining. Breakfast and burgers are our business but we also feature fish and chips, nachos, crab cakes, wraps, draft beer, and more. We also feature Sidney Bakery, as both a supplier and e Cove Jo o e an neighbour. Please come and have a meal or libation with us. We’ll be proud to serve you!

250.656.5557 2300 Canoe Cove Road OPEN: Mon – Sun 7:00am – 3:00pm

Downey Service a locally owned name business. takes ClairClair Downey Service hasis been a known in Our the company community since the 1950’s. pride in giving “old fashioned service” to our clients and look Sincegreat that time, the business has changed with the times but has never forgotten forward to fulfilling all of your repair and maintenance needs. isClair a locally owned business. Our gas company takesbut is theClair old Downey fashionedService service. Downey no longer carries or propane • “old Complete Automotive Repair Facility our clients and look great pride in fashioned service” still providing thegiving best •possible automotive repairtoand maintenance service that Warranty Approved Maintenance forward fulfilling all ofAs your and needs. Inspection clients havetocome to expect. wellrepair as being amaintenance Provincial Designated • BC Designated Inspection Facility • Complete Facilityvehicle maintenance and • Walker Exhaust Facility, Clair Downey specializes inAutomotive warrantyRepair approved Exhaust • Warranty Approved Maintenance comprehensive repairs •atPerformance competitive prices. Licensed technicians use the latest • Latest Diagnostic Equipment • BC upgrade Designated Inspection equipment and continually their skillsFacility to stay current with changing • Air Conditioning Service • Walker Exhaust technology. • Competitively Priced Tires • Performance Exhaust • All Repairspick Guaranteed From courtesy cars to customer up and drop off, the staff will tailor your next • LatestDrop Diagnostic • Courtesy Cars appointment to your schedule. in or Equipment call so the Clair Downey Team can prove Customer Drop Off & Pick Up • Airtheir Conditioning that customer service is •still #1 goalService and not a thing of the past. 9429 Canora Road, Sidney (Located at the end of East Saanich Road) • Competitively Priced Tires

• All9429 Repairs Canora Guaranteed Road (250) 656-2921 • Courtesy Cars

250-656-2921 www.clairdowney.com • Customer Drop Off & Pick Up

www.clairdowney.com

9429 Canora Road, Sidney (Located at the end of East Saanich Road)

www.clairdowney.com

PROUDLY OFFERS  Legendary Wienerschnitzel  Traditional Veal Zurichoise  Cheese Fondue  Roesti – Swiss Farmer’s Breakfast (a popular brunch on weekends)  A wide selection of mouth-watering Swiss and European inspired dishes

Prepared from scratch by our top professional Canadian and European chefs Smart Clothes. Everyday Living.

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

With our 26th Anniversary just around the corner, most of you know who we are despite a few name changes. If you have not found us yet please hunt us down, just a half a block off Beacon Avenue south of Fifth Street. Our ladies wear has grown to where it could fill it’s own store. Our industrial is still leading the market for value and durability, and our men’s casual and business casual has everything you need for work or after work. Our Holiday collection is arriving daily and looks great this year. Please keep us in mind when shopping for your loved ones or when you just want to look and feel good. Orange should be used as: C-0, M-60, Y-100, K-0 Grey Should be used as: C-0, M-0, Y-0, K-50

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

Thank you allowing us to serve the best little town in the world for 26 years! Doug Bateman

Join us for a candlelight dinner, or bring your family and friends OPEN DAILY 11am – 2:30pm and 5pm – close Reservation recommended / 2470 Beacon Ave, Sidney BC / 250 656 5353 Find more details on www.bistrosuisse.com or Facebook

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(250) 656-2921

Opportunity abounds

Peninsula News News ReviewReview / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2014 /2014 peninsulanewsreview.com Peninsula / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES / www.vicnews.com

Level Ground Trading Company on Keating X Road in Central Saanich.

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f Ian Brown had to sum up the current economic conditions on the Saanich Peninsula right now, he would have to say that it’s in a state of opportunity. Brown, the president of the Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, says he believes there is an increasing sense of optimism in most sectors of the economy, reflected in numerous new business starts and a general upbeat feeling coming from businesses from Central Saanich to Sidney. “I don’t want to come across as saying that everything is fine,” Brown added. “There is a lot we need to do, but we believe there is an improving (business) climate here and a lot of opportunity. “If you can embrace that, you can do really well here.” Brown and Chamber Executive Director Denny Warner sat down with the PNR to talk about the Chamber’s outlook on business for the Saanich Peninsula. For the most part, both were bullish on what could be seen as an upswing in the local economy. “I have been pleasantly surprised that there is a lot of optimism throughout the Peninsula,” said Warner. Anecdotally, Warner said businesses have been saying they’ve seen more business in recent months, due to a variety of economic conditions. “We can say that the business climate is better now than 12 months ago,” added Brown. “Whether someone can capitalize on that is dependant on how a business approaches it.” When the local economy was flat, Brown said there were a few coincidental incidents that made things worse — such as the drop in demand for local products when the U.S. housing market crashed and the fluctuations of the Canadian dollar. That also contributed to lower tourism numbers.

Opportunity in competition Initial reaction by established businesses to potential commercial developments on the Saanich Peninsula might have been one of uncertainty, but that is quickly changing to a more positive outlook. Ian Brown, president of the Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, says there are two things people can do in the face of proposals at Jesken, Sandown and the Airport lands: do all they can to forestall and resist the change, or; consider it an opportunity. “If we can look at it in the more positive way, we can grab our share,” he said, “draw off it like a tap.” Brown said the Peninsula cannot ignore these large commercial projects — whether they happen quickly or not — and recognize them as an issue. That must be tempered by thinking of them as opportunities. “If we can make the Peninsula a bigger draw … it’s the same principle as a destination market — people who come here for one thing have a lot of other needs.” And should more people be attracted to the Peninsula, Brown said there are opportunities to reach out into that flow and pull them in to the existing commercial centres of Sidney, Saanichton and Brentwood Bay. That has changed, he continued. “We can’t ignore the fact that the housing market in the U.S. is coming back. With an improvement in prosperity there, people travel more.” Hand-in-glove with a rise in the economy comes new business and expansion. Warner said shops like Waterlily Shoes

Ramsay Machine Works in West Sidney cranks out some heavy duty products.

of that,” Brown said. “The group engaged the District of Central Saanich to do some zoning work. This has enabled the existence of a business like (Category 12).” In Sidney, Brown said there’s a feeling that the business community is in a state of transition, moving away from traditional models. He said there’s an emerging trend by consumers to look for high value

experiences and higher-end products, better service and better quality. “The younger generation is willing to spend more on quality,” he said. “They aren’t necessarily more affluent but they will spend more, but less often, on quality products and trips and more.” If business owner can adapt to that, he continued, they’ll do well. Helping conditions in Sidney, Warner added, is the new downtown Business Improvement Area (BIA) that has done a lot of good work with marketing dollars and strategic initiatives. The Chamber, Brown said, has always been an organization advocating for business and the differing roles have enabled them to work well with the BIA in Sidney to represent the interests of all of their members. Brown added the Peninsula has set itself up well to become a destination for people seeking a healthier lifestyle. “I’d like to see the Peninsula become a wellness destination,” he explained. “I feel we can do it if we can increase recognition of the area and what it already has to offer. In the self-improvement age, we have the social and active elements here already.” By Steven Heywood/News staff Peninsula News News ReviewReview / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 2014 /2014 peninsulanewsreview.com Peninsula / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES / www.vicnews.com

in Sidney have been doing well and are looking to take advantage of the opportunity presenting itself out of speculation over three new shopping areas planned for the Peninsula. “The owner says she’s not concerned with any big boxes potentially coming here,” Warner explained. “She’s planning on opening her third store in Sidney.” One thought on the street right now, Warner said, is that proposed shopping areas at Sandown (North Saanich), Jesken (Central Saanich) and the Airport lands (Sidney) have the potential to draw a lot more shoppers to the Peninsula. The key will be treating that as an opportunity to entice new customers. Other businesses, Warner continued, have picked the Peninsula to expand or set up shop. Clothiers W. J. Wilson opened a new store on Sidney’s Beacon Avenue and out on Keating X Road in Central Saanich, Category 12 craft brewery will be opening soon. Brown noted the brewery was able to do so thanks to local zoning set up years ago by the municipality. All they had to do was find the right building. “The Keating Industrial Group was created years ago and the Chamber was part

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McNeill Audiology is celebrating 20 years in business!!

Christine Laurent Jewellers Christine Laurent Jewellers, a well-known establishment in Sidney has a new owner, Ray MacLeod who has been a resident of the Saanich Peninsula for the past 15 years. He is committed to providing the area with the excellent service they have always enjoyed. The dedicated and loyal staff welcomes a new manager, Shelly Whiteside who is eager to assist in helping the community with their current and future needs. Shopping for that special person on your list can often be a challenge. Not so when you visit Christine Laurent Jewellers and behold their incredible selection of gorgeous Diamonds, Gold and Birthstone jewellery, Sterling Silver and specially selected giftware to please the most discriminating person on your list. Birthdays • Anniversaries • Christmas • Special Occasions Our selection is eye catching and we are always pleased to gift wrap at no extra charge. Shop early as new stock is arriving daily and you will want to have the very first choice. Come in and say hi, we welcome your smiles! Lisette, Lorraine, Nancy, Phyllis, Suniti & Shelly are here to assist you as always.

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

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

Your Hearing Health Care Specialists!

We have two clinics, Oak Bay and Sidney, to provide assessment and non-medical treatment of hearing loss as well as the prevention and identification of hearing loss. Our professional audiologists, trained at a Masters Degree level have an accumulated 57 years of experience and are delighted to be able to provide solutions to help you communicate with your loved ones. Have your hearing tested by our experienced professionals and check out the amazing digital hearing aid options at McNeill Audiology.

McNeill Audiology

5 – 9843 Second St., Sidney • 250-656-2218 1463 Hampshire Rd., Victoria • 250-370-2833 Webpage: www.mcneillaudiology.ca E-mail: admin@mcneillaudiology.ca

TIDES Adventure Group Inc. The Island’s Destination & Event Service TIDES Adventure Group Inc. – The Island’s Destination & Event Service provides remarkable experiences for the people of Vancouver Island and the Salish Sea. TIDES specializes in new and unique events, executing business functions and inbound and outbound destination management. As a Sidney-based company, TIDES is committed to promoting its “backyard” and Vancouver Island as a destination to enhance local community development. As the premier destination and event service, TIDES guarantees an exceptional level of service and results you won’t forget!

Steve Duck TIDES Adventure Group Inc. The Island’s Destination & Event Service 250.999.2997 www.TIDESgroup.com

SeaFirst Insurance Brokers has been providing our clients with the finest in general insurance services for over 40 years, and is proud to be a part of the Saanich Peninsula and Victoria communities. SeaFirst is pleased to support local charities, and regularly participates in community events such as Brentwood Bay Days, Central Saanich Family Festival, Saanichton Community Christmas, and many more! Why insure with SeaFirst Insurance Brokers? Our highly-trained insurance brokers have extensive knowledge of property and liability insurance, to ensure that you receive the best coverage at the most competitive price. We value continuing education programs to equip our brokers with the leading-edge information they need to provide the best possible service. In the unfortunate event of a claim, our 24/7 claims service will ensure that your claim will be handled in a timely and professional manner. Whether you are looking to insure your car, home, business, boat, or more, SeaFirst Insurance is happy to handle all of your insurance needs. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote at any of our 7 locations in the Saanich Peninsula and Greater Victoria area. Brentwood Bay: (250)652-1141

Saanichton: (250)652-5157

Sidney: (250)656-9886

Salt Spring Island: (250)537-5527

Oak Bay: (250)592-5544

Westshore: (250)478-9110

Pender Island: (250)629-3789

Bleue Coyote is bustling in Brentwood “We really feel like we’ve become a part of the community.”

ith a slew of regular clientele and a recently opened family dining area, Bleue Coyote Bar and Grill is undoubtedly one of Brentwood Bay’s social hubs. The pub, a local effort, is owned by Jeremi and Rebecca Burrows who live in North Saanich. They were partners in the business as far back as 2008 but bought it outright in 2010 and now have sole ownership. “We really feel like we’ve become a part of the community,” explained Rebecca, who most days can be found serving tables or behind the bar pouring drinks. “Both Jer and myself work here and we feel that it’s important to integrate with the patrons,” she said. “Many of these people are more than just customers to us, they’re like friends and family.” Both Rebecca and Jeremi got an early start in the food service business. “I started as a busser in a restaurant when I was about 12-years-old and I think Jeremi was about 13 when he got his first job dishwashing,” Rebecca laughed. “We both just love people, we love our customers,” she said. The two took over ownership of Parksville’s popular pub, the Rod and Gun in the spring of 2013. With that business running smoothly, about three months ago the two decided to expand the dining room space in the Bleue Coyote to add a family dining area. “Now people are able to come whenever they’d like with

their whole family,” Rebecca explained. “We’ve seen lots of our regulars start to bring their kids out and now everyone can enjoy a meal together,” she said. The pub’s claim to fame, she continued, is their commitment to serving fresh, local fare. “Jeremi is really into craft beer so we do a lot of that, as well as we focus on keeping all of our food fresh and local. So for instance, we get a lot of our bread products from Portofino Bakery, we only use Island raised beef and we use a lot of products from Red Barn Market,” she said. Sports are also a main focus of the pub’s atmosphere, she added. “Football is probably the most popular. We have tons of regulars come for Sunday football. We always say the Bleue Coyote is home to a true pint of beer and the TV is always on,” she laughed. Rebecca also noted the pub features Friday night music bingo (always popular) and Saturday meat draws which support the local Kittyhawk Air Cadet Squadron. “For us it’s all about community,” said the mother of three children under six-years-old. “We live here and work here so we want to be as much of a part of the community as we can.”’ The Bleue Coyote Bar and Grill is located at 7100 Wallace Dr. By Devon MacKenzie/News staff

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– Rebecca Burrows

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Onward, Sidney Downtown BIA marketing the best the town has to offer

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here’s something happening here. It’s a famous first line to a song and it can be applied in a very positive way to downtown Sidney these days. “Something is happening,” agrees Susan Simosko, a board member of the Sidney Downtown Business Improvement Area Society (SBIAS). “It’s really exciting.” Since its inception in 2013, the society has drawn a lot of interest from local business for its ongoing and intensive marketing efforts in Greater Victoria, Washington State, Alberta and the Lower Mainland. That has translated into a very active board of directors and a robust collection of businesses involved in the many events planned throughout the year. This year has been a rewarding one for the SBIAS. Donna Petrie, the organization’s executive director and 10 10 events co-ordinator (a joint

SBIAS-Town of Sidney collaboration), says visitor statistics throughout 2014 have been encouraging. Much of that, she continued, can be attributed to the group’s marketing efforts — not to mention the overall increase in consumer confidence both locally and in the U.S. “I think our impact is starting to be felt,” added Simosko. “People are telling us they’re seeing more U.S. dollars in the tills than they’ve seen in a while.” In one example, Simosko said Sidney’s Mary Winspear Centre has reported their attendance numbers are up eight per cent over last year. That translates into an estimated $6.5 million in spinoff business to the town. The SBIAS, which collects an annual levy through the municipality from every business in the downtown core, was established to promote what Sidney has to offer, as well as strengthen the connections the downtown has

At your service in Sidney One of the SBIAS’ main efforts right now is the creation of customer service guidelines for local businesses. Board member Susan Simosko says they are working with owners and operators to develop a non-mandatory set of guidelines to ensure an overall lift in customer service. “As a customer myself, I think Sidney has some spectacular customer service,” she said. “But we also have some gaps. We hope all visitors have the best customer service experience possible.” An initial forum has been held for business owners and operators and a second is planned. The forums were started out of a survey conducted by the SBIAS, asking what the retail community wanted improved. The goal is to achieve consistent customer service and the SBIAS is asking people how they think that should look — such as setting out a standard for how long it takes before a customer is welcomed into the store, or how issues are resolved then they come up. “Customer service also includes being an ambassador for your community,” added SBIAS executive director Donna Petrie, noting how people are told about local events and other resources can contribute to a more positive feeling about the community. Simosko said the plan is to have these voluntary guidelines out to businesses in 2015. By Steven Heywood/News staff

Donna Petrie is being kept busy by a vibrant downtown business community in Sidney.

therefore into local shops. “The general trend is up,” Simosko said. The SBIAS is reaching out on social media as well. Their Facebook page has attained more than 3,000 likes in a very short time. “We have a natural conversation there,” said Petrie. “It’s authentic — it’s the story of Sidney and what’s real about the community.” The more connections people make

to Sidney, she continued, the better the chance they’ll make it their next destination to discover. To that end, Petrie said she and board member Erin Bremner travelled this year to Anacortes, Sidney’s sister city in Washington State to spread the word. The hits will keep on coming this fall and winter. On Nov. 21 the SBIAS launches a Christmas effort that promises By Steven Heywood/News staff to amaze.

Henley & Walden LLP is pleased to welcome Paul Brunetta to the firm as an Associate Lawyer. Paul recently joined the team of lawyers at Henley & Walden LLP. Paul’s practice is general in nature and focuses on the areas of wills and estates, real estate, corporate and commercial, and civil litigation. The practice of law is a second career for Paul who’s first career was working as a Human Resources Advisor in the Alberta oil sands. There he was exposed to a variety of legal issues that inspired his decision to practice law himself. Originally a native of Fort Frances Ontario, Paul completed his law degree in 2009 at Chicago’s The John Marshall Law School, where he continued on to graduate with a Master’s degree in International Business and Trade Law in 2011. He is called to the Bar in Illinois, Ontario and British Columbia. Paul enjoys simplifying the law into language that everyone can understand and social interaction with his clients. He takes pride in his pragmatic approach to the practice of law and is dedicated to providing each client with the information necessary to make informed decisions at every step. When not at work Paul enjoys the outdoors, and can often be found fishing while listening to a baseball game on the radio. Paul is welcoming new clients at our office located at the corner of Fifth St. and Bevan Ave.

Peninsula Lifetime Eyecare Centre is a team of progressive optometrists and committed staff that is dedicated to providing comprehensive eyecare to people of all ages. We offer complete eye exams including eye disease diagnosis and treatment, surgery co-management, contact lenses and a full selection of contemporary eye wear. We have invested in the latest eyecare technology, allowing us to diagnose eye diseases like macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataracts earlier. Our dispensing service has the technology to take custom measurements and design vision solutions unique to you. Plus, our on-site laboratory allows us to make glasses in an hour. Call today for an appointment! New patients welcome. Dr. Aisha Cheng • Dr. Mark Bourdeau • Dr. Laurie Brennan • Dr. Chris Hewitt 2379 Bevan Ave., Sidney - At the corner of 5th St and Bevan Ave.

www.henleywalden.com 250.656.7231

250-656-7266 www.pleyecare.com

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with tourist destinations like the Butchart Gardens in Central Saanich. Simosko and Petrie admit there were sceptics at the start but more business owners have gotten involved. That said, Simosko knows one the their promises has been to prove their worth — to collect the metrics and show to their 300-plus members that their marketing efforts are having tangible results. “We’ve got some targets on how we’re going to be collecting that information for 2014 and 2015,” she continued. “We need hard evidence to show the impact of the work we’re doing.” Visitor statistics are part of that, as are hotel occupancy rates and other sources of data. Simosko said 2014 has been the SBIAS’ first full year of operation and they have really hit their stride. As part of the Sidney Event Advisory Group, she said they’re a part of promoting events like Family Day, Christmas shopping season and much more. They work with various local not-for-profit organizations that host events to ensure those get the support and turnout they desire — which has the effect of drawing more people into town and

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Accentuate the Positive Camouflage the Negative

 Home styling services using existing furniture pieces  Expert in the art of furniture placement creating an elegant living space

OPTICAL & OPTOMETRISTS

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

#104-2376 Bevan Ave., Sidney Centre

250-655-1122

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

Office hours are Tuesday to Friday 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

 Senior’s Consultant – supporting seniors through life changes involving home, family and other challenges.  Antiques and collectibles expert  Dry wit, true sincerity and friendly manner  Complimentary 1 hour consultation

Carell-Ayne Whalen

tel: 250.656.0352 cell: 250.889.0022 ca@simplystagedtosell.ca www.simplystagedtosell.ca

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Thank You Sidney! • Full service, all breed grooming care by Certified Groomers • Beautiful, relaxed environment with large street side windows for dogs looking out and owners looking in! • Pickup and delivery available, free for seniors • Puppy training and socializing classes • Early bookings for the Christmas season recommended • Peninsula News Review award winner in 2014 for Excellence in Grooming • Crystal Award Nominee for Excellence in Customer Service

In loving memory of Parker

778.426.2587 forlittlepaws@shaw.ca www.forlittlepawsgroomingstudio.ca

Celebrating our 15th year in business is such a blessing. We would like to thank our amazing clients for trusting and supporting us as we live our passion of all things hair! We continue to carry exclusive lines, including Devacurl and Moroccan Oil Hair and Body line, while trusting our anchor of Joico colour and styling aids. Having said that, we do love to play with the fresh, fun colours from Matrix! To top it all off, we are now offering ear and nose piercing. We would love to hear from you, so call Maxine at 250-656-2321 to set up an appointment with Samantha, Yvonne, Athena, Carmel, Laura, Tanya or Karly.

Hours: Tuesday 9 am to 8 pm Wednesday – Friday 9 am to 6 pm Saturday 9 am to 5 pm

3-2310 Beacon Ave., Sidney 250-656-2321

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In the heart of Saanichton “I like to be a part of the community and I think it’s important to get involved.” – Ron Spelt

“And many of those are people we know,” he added. Spelt said that the customers are the highlight in a business that is getting tougher and tougher each year. “Independently owned gas stations are few and far between,” said Ron, who estimates he is one of about five independent gas stations in the entire region. Although it can be tough competing with the oil company-owned stations, Ron said, his passion for the community keeps him going. “I like to be a part of the community and I think it’s important to get involved. When you live and work somewhere like Saanichton, what happens in the community and how it is shaped is doubly important to you,” he said. A member of the District of Central Saanich’s Advisory Planning Commission, and past member of the Healthy Watershed Committee and the Saanichton Village Association, Ron said he feels being involved in the community is essential to ensuring Saanichton will continue as an economic centre. “Change is inevitable in any community but you need to control it,” said Ron, adding that in the future he hopes to see more residential density built up in Saanichton, Brentwood and Keating and the rural areas kept green. “The bottom line is we will need more residents to float the local economy.” For now, Ron said, he looks forward to going to work every day to interact with his loyal customers. “Almost every day I see someone I either went to school with, or who my kids went to school with, or who I know somehow. That’s the beauty of this community, people grow up here, and they might leave for a while, but more often than not they come back.” By Devon MacKenzie/News staff 13 13

Peninsula News Review / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES 20142014 / peninsulanewsreview.com Peninsula News Review / PENINSULA BUSINESS PROFILES / www.vicnews.com

on Spelt and his family have run Spelt’s gas station in Saanichton for over 40 years, and through those years they have seen it all. “It’s amazing the change that has taken place since 1971, even in this small community,” said Ron. “I remember when where we sit now was the fire station, police station and municipal hall. The Saanich Fair used to be held across the street in Saanichton Green Park and half the buildings around weren’t built yet.” Ron’s father, Jake Spelt, was the one who started the family business in 1971 after he bought a Chevron service station which was located across the street from the current Spelt’s property. Ron started working for his father when he was 13 and, after taking a brief hiatus from the business to go to school, returned to the fold with the rest of his family in the late ‘80s. “That’s when this property opened up and we saw the opportunity to expand. We figured then if we didn’t buy the property a competitor would, so we jumped at it,” he explained. By 1990 Ron and his family opened the new business in its current location at the corner of Wallace Drive and East Saanich Road. “My brother works here with me and so have all of our kids,” Ron laughed, noting that it adds up to three generations of Spelts who have worked in the business. The best part of owning a business in the heart of Saanichton, said Ron, is that it becomes a hub for locals. “Since we opened our own coffee shop which replaced Robin’s Donuts in 2007, we’ve seen so many regulars through our doors,” he explained, estimating that between the gas station and coffee shop, they see about 700 patrons each day.

YOUR COMMUNITY ADVOCATE

Dennis and Jenny, along with their partner Jason would like to introduce themselves to the Peninsula!

For assistance with provincial programs and agencies

The trio have, between them, an extensive background in both the cooking and service end of the business. Their menu showcases traditional Chinese cuisine. Jenny has over 16 years of experience in restaurant management. They are very excited to be a part of the community and look forward to meeting and welcoming new patrons to their business.

Gary Holman, MLA Saanich North and the Islands

Lunch and Dinner Buffet 10% discount on pick up orders over $30 Free delivery after 4pm

gary.holman.mla@leg.bc.ca www.garyholman.ca

(within 4 mile radius, $30 min order)

Fully Licensed

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

778.426.3888 2500 BEACON AVE., SIDNEY www.sidneyharbourchineserestaurant.com

New Constituency Office numbers: 250-655-5711 Toll-free: 1-855-955-5711

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SIDNEY

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

Sidney Centre Family Dentistry Family is key at Sidney Centre Family Dentistry: Husband and wife team Dr. Loren Braun and Dr. Jacalyn Sollid opened their Sidney family practice in 2000. 14 years and 2 children later, family is still their focus. “We enjoy treating entire families, from young kids’ first visits to grandparents maintaining their oral health. It is fun to get to know the whole family, and watch them grow year after year,” says Dr. Braun. In their modern dental office, Dr. Braun has all the latest technology at his fingertips to provide patients with the best dental care possible. Along with digital radiographs, which produce significantly less radiation than conventional x-rays, the office has intraoral cameras. These take photographs that are then displayed on screens attached to the patient chairs. “A picture is worth a thousand words, so we use photos to help patients understand why a treatment is recommended,” says Dr. Braun. A full range of dental services is offered here: exams and cleanings, fillings, crowns and bridges, implants, root canals, full and partial dentures, in-office tooth whitening, and extractions, including wisdom teeth. Sedation is available for anxious patients, as well as same day emergency care. “We never want to turn away a patient who is in pain, so we do our best to fit them into our day.” Another patient-first philosophy: this office will bill your insurance company directly. At this time, Dr. Sollid is not practicing dentistry due to neck problems. She keeps busy homeschooling their boys while Dr. Braun continues to care for patients at their office, located above Capital Iron. See them there, new patients are always welcome!

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

OPTICAL

Specializing in the most challenging prescriptions, proper fitting frames and adjustments since 1997. Walk into Sidney Eyeland and get a warm welcome. Local owner Fima, and optician Brian, are always pleased to see returning customers and to meet new ones - and show their huge selection of eyewear. “We’re an independent optical dispensary,” Fima explains, “so we can provide an unlimited number of frame styles and digitally manufactured lenses by Germanmade Carl Zeiss and Japanese Nikon and Seiko, as well as French Essilor products to fit all our customer’s needs.” Because Fima and Brian are licensed opticians they also offer knowledgeable service and their in-store labs can do most work right on the premises. They can fill most prescriptions in one day, and adjustments, repairs, and cleaning are fast and often free. Sidney Eyeland Optical is conveniently located, in the heart of Sidney or, come visit us at our second location in the Cook Street Village. Whichever store you choose, Brian and Fima are looking forward to seeing you!

We appreciate your support over the years. 2451 Beacon Ave.

250-656-3626

316 Cook St. Village

250-380-2735

www.eyelandoptical.ca

The Mortgage Centre in Sidney BC is happy to announce that Shelley Haydar has joined our Team of Mortgage Professionals. Shelley is a lifelong resident of Victoria and area and would like to invite everyone to drop in a see her about all their mortgage needs.

WE SPECIALIZE IN FIRST TIME BUYERS AND THOSE HARD TO GET MORTGAGE LOANS Murray Savage, AMP 250-217-2200

Shelley Haydar 250-217-7992

The Mortgage Centre Sidney, BC is your “Go To” place for residential, commercial and construction mortgages. Whether it’s a 1st, 2nd or 3rd mortgage, we offer the BEST RATES ANYWHERE.

Advanced Dentistry Small Animal Medicine and Surgery Acupuncture Official Veterinarian for the 2013 Canadian Police Canine Championships Serving Vancouver Island for over 30 years. 250-656-9911 • www.deanparkpet.com • www.facebook.com/DeanParkPetHospital

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

The Mortgage Centre

Sidney Branch 9771 Fourth St., Sidney, BC, V8L 2Y9 250-656-9551 www.sidneymortgages.com

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

New operating rooms require new standards of cleanliness. A modern facility makes sterilization part of a â€˜closed-loopâ€™ system where sterilized instruments move through a sterile corridor to the operating rooms and soiled instruments move back to a decontamination room through hallways within the OR suite. Help our hospital achieve the highest standards.

Your donation will help us build a new OR Sterilization Department.