A regular report on newsworthy business developments
in the Kootenays…
AUGUST 31
Big Bridge “Connie” Winner
As phase 2 of Kicking Horse Canyon Project wraps up, hats go off to many local contractors and suppliers who have been working on the massive highway bridge project.
The Park Bridge is a 405-metre span featuring five piers reaching up as high as 90 metres. Approaches to the bridge and realignment of more 5 kilometres of new four-lane highway east of Golden have been completed.
Manager, Paul Ricard, of Golden Concrete—one of the projects major local suppliers---tells Kootenay Business magazine that his company has been recognized with a prestigious “Connie” award for their work on the Kicking Horse Bridge.
The award comes from the BC Ready-Mixed Concrete Association (BCRMCA). The CONNIE awards are the industry's highest recognition of work that exemplifies vision and innovation in the use of ready-mixed concrete through a variety of project applications in British Columbia.
Congratulations to Golden Concrete and all the contractors on this impressive project!
August 30
Mountain Gem of a Property Put Up For Sale
One of the Kootenay’s premiere mountain properties is for sale. This is a private sale of what many consider to be the most spectacular and pristine Rocky Mountain lake property to be offered to the public in decades.
It features 121 private acres of paradise with 825 feet of shoreline, situated at Norbury Lake B.C., nestled next to the rugged and famously photographed Steeples Mountain Range in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. This once in a lifetime opportunity, gives the buyer 7 developed acres along the lakefront area, which includes 3 living residences, with manicured lawns and gardens.
It also comes with an additional 114 acres of raw undeveloped land that gently rises up the hill behind the homes at the waters edge.
Well not the entire McDonalds chain, but Dan Ashman dealer principal at AM Ford in Trail has announced that his company has purchased the former McDonald’s property from the City of Trail.
The high visibility property which is located near the Waneta Shopping Centre, which was vacated by McDonalds when the fast food franchise opened a new building in downtown Trail and the City of Trail purchased the property.
The property will be used primarily satellite site for AM Ford’s Glenmerry location. AM Ford is one of Kootenay Business magazine’s Top 50 businesses with sales over $25.5 million a year.
August 28
Real Estate Heats Up at Halcyon Hot Springs
Exciting things are happening at Halcyon Hot Springs (68 km south of Revelstoke). The four season resort which is noted for its beautiful surroundings overlooking the Arrow Lakes and its renowned healing hot springs, is now offer an unique opportunity to own a chalet on-site.
Sabin Burmeister, tells Kootenay Business that phase one of these limited collection of resort homes is selling fast. She says the goal is to create a lifestyle that blends luxury and life energy.
With recreation property throughout the Kootenays/Arrow Lakes being snapped up very quickly, the Chalets at Halcyon Hot Springs promises to offer an unique opportunity to the discerning buyer.
For more info on the Chalets at Halcyon Hot Spring call 1 888 689 4699 or visit www.halcyon-hotsprings.com.
AUGUST 22 Fernie Interpretive Centre ready to move forward
The Fernie Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that with the final funding partner now on board, the Fernie Interpretive Centre project is ready to move forward. The Interpretive Centre is dedicated to bringing Fernie and the Elk Valley experience to life through the use of interactive displays, indoor and outdoor exhibits, permanent and changing exhibits, interpretive programs and guided excursions on the region’s natural history, geology, flora, fauna, and wildlife.
The Fernie Chamber of Commerce gratefully acknowledges financial contributions from its project funding partners, BC Tourism, Columbia Basin Trust, FAR Community Summit Fund, and the Regional District of East Kootenay.
Nancy Frederickson, Network Program Manager for Tourism BC stated, “We feel that this is a very innovative and exciting project that will definitely benefit the Visitor Centre as well as the community. We agree that the Interpretive Centre will enhance the visitor experience and provide the opportunity for visitors to learn about the natural environment in and around Fernie.”
The Fernie Interpretive Centre will be a positive addition to Fernie’s tourism inventory, and a welcome addition to attractions in Fernie. Together with the educational aspect, the Interpretive Centre will also provide additional opportunities as a “rainyday” alternative activity for visitors and locals during periods of inclement weather.
For more information contact Lynn Flokstra at the Fernie Chamber of Commerce by phone 1-250-423-6868 or by e-mail office@ferniechamber.com
Source: Fernie Chamber Newsletter
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AUGUST 21
901 Fernie transforming Fernie downtown
Little did I know that very classroom I slaved away in solving high school math and science problems would someday be transformed into toney, high end condos. But now the old Fernie High School where I spent my high school years is morphing into 901 Fernie.
901 Fernie is a secure community featuring a world class spa, private courtyard and the only heated underground parkade in downtown Fernie.
There are four phases within the 901 Fernie development described below.
Phase One – “The Scenic” - This building was originally the wood working shop constructed in 1966 adjacent to the 1908 school house. The Scenic includes five one level loft style units averaging floor plans larger than 1800 square feet. These unique units feature 14 feet ceilings with original exposed Douglas fir rafters. All units have very high quality interiors such as cast iron soaker baths, metallic designer tile, granite counters throughout all baths and kitchen areas, in floor heating in baths and large windows throughout the unit. All Scenic units feature a beautiful patio area with tremendous views of the Ghostrider (Hosmer Mt.) and the Three Sisters (Mt. Trinity). There are 2 very unique 2BD units AVAILABLE in this series. The 3BD residences have been completely sold out. Show suite is available for tours, contact the Sales Team at 423-9204.
Phase Two – “The Moccasin” - The Moccasin is an entirely new building within the development. There are eight units in this Phase. These are two-level side by side town home units that back directly onto the centre courtyard and feature private individual front yards with street access facing Fernie Mountain. The units offer a three or four bedroom option and large floor plans (1700 ft. plus average) with similar amenities and color schemes as the Scenic residences. The Moccasin units have covered entries and 2nd storey balconies with exceptional panoramic views that range from Fernie Alpine Resort to Hosmer (Ghostrider) mountain. Construction on this phase is very active with the exterior nearing completion. This Phase has been completely SOLD OUT with occupancy set for November 1997.
Phase Three – “The Range” - This phase was the original Science wing of the school. Construction on the Range began in June 2007. This series has been completely SOLD OUT with occupancy scheduled for June 2008.
Phase Four – “The School” – The fourth and final phase consists of 23 individual floor plans both within and on the roof of the original 1908 schoolhouse. 1st and 2nd floor units will feature approximately 13’ ceilings with original exposed brick and expansive heritage style windows. The all new 3rd floor is reserved for six very exclusive homes, the 901 Fernie Penthouses. Every 901 Fernie Penthouse will be born from the “barefoot home” philosophy and posses an informal luxury with an almost seamless indoor/outdoor connection. Six penthouse units will be available. Construction on The School has begun and is scheduled for completion in late 2008. The School Units are expected to be released in September 2007. Every 901 Fernie unit comes with:
-Access to the Spa and courtyard facilities
-Large personal storage area (150 square feet)
-Designated underground heated parking space
-New home warranty
Contact the Sales Team at 901 Fernie at (250) 423-9204 or stop by their promotional office at 562 A Victoria Avenue
www.901fernie.com
Source: Fernie Chamber Newsletter
AUGUST 20 Renaissance Women
There’s a new way to relax on Baker Street in Nelson.
Baker Street in Nelson is home to a new day spa called Renaissance. The spa is owned and operated by Melisa Beyers and Kristin Ditzel, who have a combined 20 years of experience in the spa field.
The business operates in a room off the well-known Renaissance Hair Company. They offer a variety of massages including Swedish, deep tissue, aromatheraputic and cellulite variations. Both women are trained in esthetics, aromatherapy and reflexology.
So looking for a summer spa treat, you might want to check out the Renaissance Day Spa or give them a call 352 1955.
Source: Express Newspaper
AUGUST 17 Teck Cominco Metals Ltd. sells Trail airport lands to Regional District of Kootenay Boundary
Teck Cominco's Communication's Manager Carol Vanelli Worosz hands over the keys to RDKB Board Chair Gord DeRosa.
Teck Cominco Metals Ltd. Trail Operations has sold the Trail Airport lands to the Regional District of Kootenay Boundary at its assessed value of $1.3 million. The sale, which closed on June 29, 2007, is comprised of the following price structure: a $250,000 cash payment; a five-year interest-free mortgage of $950,000 (annual payments of $190,000) and the transfer of the Quirk Siding lands, at the assessed value of $100,000, from the Regional District to Teck Cominco Metals Ltd.
The Trail Airport lands, covering 125 acres, are located north of the Canada-United States border at Waneta. Quirk Siding, situated on the Kettle Falls International Railway, is located near the Trimac Reload Centre. This industrial rail siding is currently leased to Westcan Bulk Transport, a company that transloads chemical and fertilizer products made at Teck Cominco’s Trail Operations from trucks to rail cars for shipment to North American destinations.
“The Regional District’s Board of Directors identified transportation linkages as one of our top strategic priorities for 2007 and beyond,” said Gord DeRosa, Board Chair, Regional District of Kootenay Boundary. “The acquisition of the Trail Airport allows us to develop this important asset to better serve the residents of the Kootenay Boundary.”
Speaking for the Airport Committee, Chair Griff Welsh said, “Our airport offers vital services to the residents of Kootenay Boundary and beyond. Air ambulance, Pacific Coastal Airlines with their successful service schedule and private flyers all rely on our airport. This arrangement allows the Regional District to fully explore the potential of an airport.”
AUGUST 15 Burning green
The Regional District of Central Kootenay (www.rdck.bc.ca) is trying out biodiesel in several of the machines at the Central Landfill.
The biodiesel, supplied by Agri-Green Biodiesel Ltd. in Sparwood, is being used in place of regular diesel with the intent of gradually expanding its use to all RDCK diesel fuelled vehicles.
Biodiesel is gaining in popularity as an alternative to more polluting fuels. This fuel type contains approximately 11% oxygen. This provides enhanced combustion properties over regular diesel, and therefore results in a more complete burn. This can result in reduced fuel consumption and significantly less pollution. The exhaust product actually smells like cooked popcorn with no particulate matter being released into the surrounding air.
AUGUST 13 Roca Mines
Here’s an update on key development and exploration activities at the MAX Molybdenum Project southeast of Revelstoke, British Columbia.
Electrical Systems Installation - An electrical power distribution system for the MAX mine and mill is being completed allowing for load-sharing and efficient power usage from three new 1,000 kW (each) diesel gensets. The crusher and mill buildings are being readied for internal power distribution to equipment and lighting.
Tailings Facility - After producing and stockpiling various crushed borrow and rockfill materials for the past four months, construction of the main (south) dam is now well underway. Excellent weather conditions have aided in the organization and placement of the dam materials. Starter dam elevations will be completed prior to the targeted production date. Ongoing dam construction will progress to an ultimate 2007 dam height by early fall.
Accelerated Phase II Development - The development of a second parallel adit (tunnel) to the deposit is well underway. The second access will immediately improve ventilation and lower operating costs of the underground mine. The adits will also provide primary access for long-term development and planned expansion phases of the MAX Mine.
The Company has also acquired an additional ball mill, currently located in Spokane, Washington, for future expansion of the mill's grinding circuit. This unit, a Harding 9.5 X 15, 700 hp ball mill will be installed after production startup thereby providing flexibility and additional capacity for the operation of the mill.
MAX 2007 Exploration Programs - The Company has completed the development of an underground drill station from which a new exploration program will be conducted. A diamond drill will be mobilized to the site in approximately two weeks to carry out an exploration program that will focus on expanding the known molybdenite resource at depth.
Roca plans to be the first new primary molybdenum producer in Canada. The permitted PHASE I mine plan for MAX will focus on the deposit's high-grade zone containing 280,000 measured and indicated tonnes grading 1.95% MoS2 (refer to T.N. Macauley's 43-101 compliant technical report dated September 2004 available via SEDAR). Molybdenum currently trades in the US$32 - 33/lb range and is a key alloy in the manufacture of stainless and specialty steels, including pipelines and other energy-related steel infrastructure.
AUGUST 10 Kootenay Rockies joins SYTA
Kootenay Rockies Tourism has joined the Student and Youth Travel Association (SYTA), the largest student travel group in North America.
SYTA is a non-profit group based in Michigan that consists of Tour Operators, Travel Agencies, hotels, restaurants, DMOs, etc. The foundation is a well-heard voice in the youth travel market.
Bob Keating, Media and Trade Manager for Kootenay Rockies Tourism, will travel to Whistler for the SYTA marketplace. The Conference takes place Sept 7-11, 2007 and his goal will be to familiarize the youth market with all the activities and adventure opportunities the Kootenay Rockies has to offer.
AUGUST 9 FortisBC Inc. recognizes Celgar
for
energy efficient upgrades FortisBC Inc.’s Michael Mulcahy, vice president of customer and corporate services, recently presented a cheque for $56,764 to Al Hitzroth, mill general manager at the Zellstoff Celgar Pulp Mill, for energy efficient upgrades completed at the plant.
As part of the recent upgrades at Zellstoff Celgar, numerous areas for energy efficiency upgrades were identified. One of these involved the way the mill processed the hot water needed in the pulping process.
In making pulp, hot process effluent is created and needs to be cooled down and treated. An increase in production at the plant has meant an increased need to cool the effluent. Previously Celgar has cooled the effluent by utilizing spray coolers which rely on the ambient air for cooling. These spray coolers require a substantial amount of electricity for pumping. In consultation with FortisBC PowerSense, Zellstoff Celgar chose instead to install a heat exchanger to capture the waste heat from the mill effluent and reuse that heat in other parts of the plant. This resulted in a reduced need for the spray coolers in the effluent treatment ponds. Another benefit of this installation is a reduction in ambient odour from the mill effluent by minimizing the amount of spray cooling required to lower the effluent temperature.
The result was a savings of just over 1.1 gigawatt hours annually, or enough electricity to power 90 houses a year.
Al Hitzroth, mill general manager, said, “From Zellstoff Celgar’s perspective, energy is a significant cost factor and we are very appreciative of the opportunities that we have of working with FortisBC to develop and implement energy reduction initiatives.”
AUGUST 7 Roca Mines update
Here’s an update on development and exploration activities at the MAX Molybdenum Project southeast of Revelstoke, British Columbia.
Development of the MAX Molybdenum Mine has advanced significantly in the past two months with initial production now targeted to begin in approximately six weeks. Roca began its fast-tracked development of the project only 14 months ago and the company's contractors have met numerous construction milestones in many areas, including;
Underground Development - Development of the decline and 25 metre (m) sub-levels now provides access to the upper stopes. Ongoing development work will provide access to lower stopes for subsequent phases of mining. An electric-hydraulic long-hole production drill will be mobilized to site on July 18, 2007, to commence production drilling of the initial stopes. Ore from these stopes will be available soon after commencing long-hole drilling.
Crusher / Mill & Concentrator - All of the heavy equipment, including; crushers, feeders, primary grinding mills, regrind mill and thickener tanks have been installed and are being wired to electrical controls. All of the large motors and electrical systems have been delivered to the site after inspection, repair and testing previously conducted off-site. Where required, new liners, bearings, motors and other items are also being fitted prior to startup. The mill and crusher buildings' structural steel has been erected and cladding will be applied shortly. Galleries between the various buildings are being completed prior to the installation of conveyors.
Temporary Construction Camps - The Company has purchased and recently completed the installation of a second construction camp providing more flexibility for housing of its staff and contractors.
Roca plans to be the first new primary molybdenum producer in Canada. The permitted PHASE I mine plan for MAX will focus on the deposit's high-grade zone containing 280,000 measured and indicated tonnes grading 1.95% MoS2 (refer to T.N. Macauley's 43-101 compliant technical report dated September 2004 available via SEDAR). Molybdenum currently trades in the US$32 - 33/lb range and is a key alloy in the manufacture of stainless and specialty steels, including pipelines and other energy-related steel infrastructure.
AUGUST 3 Gilded Goat doubles in size
Wow, have you seen what’s developing in Kimberley’s platzl these days. I had the opportunity to walk through the downtown square in Kimberley the other day and was stuck by the major reconstruction happening on the corner next to the Gilded Goat.
This unique gift emporium/interior décor store which is owned by Kimberley resident Robin Dixon, is expanding to more than twice it’s current size. I understand that one side of the store will concentrate on furnishings and décor items while the other side on gifts and antiques.
One interesting feature of the newly expanded Gilded Goat is that it is bringing to Kimberley a stronger heritage look—with the Bavarian theme stripped off and the natural bricks of the original building are coming to forefront.
Watch for the completion of the newly expanded Gilded Goat in coming weeks.
AUGUST 2 Aberfeldie redevelopment project
The Aberfeldie Dam Redevelopment site is located on private property and is a construction zone. Construction activities include blasting, large equipment traffic and other hazards that are extremely dangerous to anglers and recreation users in the area. Please note that blassting and the potential for rock falling in the canyon are a concern to anyone in the valley basin within the construction zone.
For public safety reasons the Aberfeldie Redevelopment site is closed to the public and all access is prohibited.
The area beginning at the Aberfeldie Dam and continuing downstream through the canyon for approximately three kilometres to the signs posted on shore downstream of the construction site is a danger zone. Access to the Bull River in this area is not allowed. Safety Officers will require all trespassers to leave the property immediately.
We appreciate the co-operation of the public. Once construction is completed in September 2008, the area will re-open.
JULY 30 Revelstoke to create spirit square BC2008 legacy
Revelstoke is partnering with the government of British Columbia to build its very own B.C. Spirit Square, expanding Grizzly Plaza as an accessible public celebration place for residents and visitors alike, thanks to a grant of $86,000.
The Grizzly Plaza extension will offer an enhanced space for people to gather and enjoy the downtown core and provide 400 per cent more street space for special events.
"Being able to expand Grizzly Square between 1st and 3rd streets means better oppotunities for residents to gather in the downtown core. The community events we hold now are already popular, and this means we can expand on that opportunity for the future," said Mayor Mark McKee. "This fits with our plans for building on Revelstoke's popularity as a tourism draw as well."
"BC2008 is about celebrating our heritage and achievements—past, present and future," said Tourism, Sport and the Arts Minister Stan Hagen. "The expansion of Grizzly Plaza not only pays tribute to this historic centre, it will pave the way for festivals, events and celebrations for current and future generations to enjoy."
JULY 27 Teck Cominco pledges to closely review recommendations
Teck Cominco will be closely reviewing the recommendations of the coroner’s inquest held in Kimberley, BC, this past week to further increase its understanding of the causes of the tragic events of May, 2006.
“Our objective has been to ensure the unprecedented and unforeseen events of May 2006 never happen again,” said Don Lindsay, President and CEO of Teck Cominco Limited. “We are committed to identifying and managing hazards and risks at Kimberley and all of our operations. The jury’s recommendations will form part of our ongoing work.”
The company will be continuing its work with a technical review panel consisting of independent experts from UBC, staff of the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources (MEMPR) and their respective technical advisors to develop a complete understanding of the technical causes of the incident.
“Teck Cominco once again extends its deepest condolences to the families of those whose lives were lost in this tragic accident,” said Lindsay.
JULY 26 New quad goes up
It may be middle of summer but Red Resort in Rossland is busy getting ready for next ski season with an ongoing construction program.
Construction is underway this summer on the a Doppelmayr CTEC Quad
chairlift at Rossland’s Red Resort. Red Resort is anticipating that the new Quad will be ready for operation December 7, 2007. It replaces the Silverlode triple chair and provides access to over 100 acres of new beginner terrain.
Red is now poised for significant growth and development. Over the next 10 years, Red will expand all aspects of its operation to become a four-season 4,200-acre world-class resort.
Visit www.redresort.com to view the alignment of the new quad chair.
JULY 25
Trail re-vamps website
By early fall, the web presence of the Trail & District Chamber of Commerce will leap into the 21st Century. The new web portal will feature members and various organizations of the Chamber. The Home Page will feature businesses, pictures, logos and company write ups. We will also be incorporating live and up to the minute weather and highway reports, water levels, fire ban information and air quality reports. Plus, a direct link to Google Earth.
Visitors to the site can expect relevant and current information on the membership listings and points of interest around Greater Trail. With our current event page, visitors and locals of the area will be able to check in regularly to plan their activities for each season. This great wealth of information will also be an additional resource for all organizers of local events; such as music in the park, sporting registrations and local fundraisers.
As part of phase one, a training seminar is scheduled for August 15, 2007, from 6 pm to 8pm at the Trail & District Chamber of Commerce, RSVP to 250-368-3144. In this informative training session there will be three key points of discussion. The main focus will be spent on introducing and demonstrating the website features and benefits. This will be followed by the instruction of marketing/branding. By branding your company, this creates an identifier for your potential customers. In the final segment of the class the search engine will be introduced, thus connecting why it is essential for having key words to describe your business.
As the new executive director, I welcome all business, not-for-profit organizations and future members of the Trail and District Chamber of Commerce to your new home page: www.trailchamber.bc.ca.
—Submitted by Carol Ann Pedersen, executive director
JULY 24 New Cranbrook Subway owners
New to the Cranbrook business scene! The husband and wife team of Dan and Tina Patel have taken over ownership of the Subway Sandwiches and Salads restaurants—one on Cranbrook’s busy Cranbrook Street (the strip) and the other located in downtown Cranbrook.
The Patels recently moved to Cranbrook from Toronto where they are partners in the three other Subway sandwiches and salad franchises. The two Cranbrook Subway restaurants were owned for many years by Julie Jensen.
Subway, known corporately as Dr. Associates, is based out of Connecticut and is the world’s largest restaurant franchise chain with over 27,200 restaurants in 86 countries.
JULY 23 New fire hall slated for Panorama Mountain Village
The Panorama Volunteer Fire Department will be getting a new “house.” Reinhart
Construction of Invermere has been awarded the contract to construct a new fire hall on Regional District property at the entrance to Panorama Mountain Village.
“The RDEK is pleased to have this exciting project underway,” said Dan McNeill, manager of building and protective services. “It is something we’ve been working on for quite some time,and we are happy to have a reputable contractor ready to start the job."
Fire Chief Martin Caldwell is eagerly anticipating completion of the fire hall. “Our department has been making many improvements with an increase in the number of firefighters, more rescue services, the purchase of new trucks, and now a new fire hall," said Caldwell. "The new building will give us not just a facility to store our equipment, but a true home of which we can be proud,"
The new fire hall, costing approximately $998,000, will consist of four truck bays, storage facilities, training space and meeting rooms. The alpine-styled building will also feature a traditional hose drying tower. Construction is underway.
JULY 20
Attention contractors
BP Canada is preparing for their upcoming coalbed methane exploration program by hosting a number contractor workshops.
BP Canada is providing an electronic link to assist local businesses in responding to
the proposed contractor workshops. Although the workshops are free, space may be limited, so please respond as soon as possible.
These workshops are designed to assist local businesses in understanding:
• Any unique oil and gas regulations regarding safety
• BP Canada specific health, safety, security and environmental requirements
• BP Canada contracting procedures
• Basic information on BP Canada’s account’s payable process - SAP 8
• Any other steps you may need to take to become a BP contractor, consultant or vendor
JULY 19
Amber Bay Condos launched in Nelson Nelson developer Michael Donner is busy marketing his new project called Amber Bay Condominiums. Similar to his first sold-out condo project known as Silver Bay, the new development also overlooks the shores of Kootenay Lake.
Located in the Fairview area of Nelson these luxurious condos come with all the enmities of a modern lifestyle-- Luxurious open floor plans, huge balconies / patios, lake & Glacier views, underground parking, video security system, 9 foot ceilings, Radiant In-floor heat, Hardwood flooring, granite countertops and stainless steel appliances.
The company behind the development is CXXR Corporation which started in Alberta some years ago and is now a registered company in British Columbia. In addition to Michael Bonner, directors of the company include president, Guy Gelineau and construction manager, Dave Sowiak.
Amber Bay is reporting a successful launch of the project with eleven suites being sold in the company’s first weekend of sales.
JULY 18
Jumbo’s master plan approved
Proponents are very pleased to announce the master plan approval for Jumbo Glacier Resort from the Ministry of Tourism, Sport, and the Arts. Ministry officials worked hard and worked well throughout the process.
They consulted with the First Nations and others during their work, and look forward to including the results of these consultations in the Master Development Agreement, which is the next key step for the project. Proponents expect to conclude the MDA in the next few months.
The project represents an investment of $900 million in 2007 dollars, about 750 permanent direct jobs, and 3,750 person-years of construction work. At build-out it will feature 6,250 beds (including 750 employee beds), comprising approximately 1,360 units and two hotels.
The project has undergone the most thorough environmental review of any tourism project in BC history. Careful steps have been taken to ensure that the resort has the smallest possible footprint in the valley and that key environmental values are protected.
This summer at HEMPIRE we are blowing out alot of stock to make room for great new clothing lines coming in, starting this month! Everything is made from HEMP and organics and won't bother people with sensitive skin. New hats and hoodies will start arriving in one week!
We also have new lines of skin care products and high end, anti-aging face creams to check out.
Last fall HEMPIRE finished the franchising process and was accepted into the Canadian Franchise Association (CFA). Since then, the Banff and Canmore locations have been franchised and a new location in Red Deer was just recently added to the list. In September, the fifth location opens in Cochrane Alberta!
HEMPIRE is growing rapidly and franchises are available across Canada. If you know someone who may be interested in a franchise you could be eligible for a finders fee. Give them our information and make sure they mention who recommented us to them! www.hempirecanada.com
Tel: 250-423-3970
July 16
New Planner Comes on Board
The City of Nelson ( www.city.nelson.bc.ca ) is hiring a new city planner. Dave Wahn will be the City’s new planner reports the Kootenay Express newspaper. He is replacing the part time planner Trish Dehnel who is leaving.
The new planner will be responsible for keeping Nelson’s Official Community Plan up-to-date, as well as approving new subdivisions, and working closely with Nelson’s heritage commission and advisory planning commission.
Wahn is no stranger to Nelson, as was the senior planner for the Regional District of Central Kootenay
(www.rdck.bc.ca) previously. The new posting takes effect in early August.
Source: Kootenay Express
July 13
Columbia basin trust releases its 2006/07 annual report
Columbia Basin Trust’s (CBT) Annual Report, and audited financial statements are now available.
The audited financial statements show CBT delivered $5.3 million in grant and service programs for the year ending March 31, 2007. This is more than a 25% increase from the previous year when benefits delivered were $4.2 million.
CBT’s Annual Report can be viewed and downloaded from the website at www.cbt.org. Copies will also be available at CBT’s Annual General Meeting being held at the St. Eugene Mission in Cranbrook on July 20 at 4:00-5:30 or by calling 1-800-505-8998.
Columbia Basin Trust is a regionally-based Crown corporation created in 1995 to deliver economic, social, and environmental benefits to the residents of the Columbia Basin. For more information about the Columbia Basin Trust visit www.cbt.org or call 1-500-505-8998.
July 12
New Health Promotion Centre Joins Co-op Movement in Nelson
The Selkirk College Community Caring Centre, a new health promotion and nursing practicum facility located in the Nelson Community First Health Cooperative building, is set to welcome its first clients on July 23.
Selkirk College nursing instructor Pat Gibson spearheaded the development of the walk-in centre after receiving $160,000 from the Academic Health Council of British Columbia Practice Education Innovation Fund. The centre will offer a range of services with emphasis on prevention, health promotion, health education and community development.
As the centre's project coordinator, Gibson cited the importance of partnerships and collaboration of health and human service providers within the ever-changing field of health care.
"We in the nursing program feel there is a strong need to offer students enhanced and innovative health care experiences under an arrangement that will probably become more common in the future," Gibson said.
July 11
Women entrepreneurs are growing and a driving force in B.C.'s strong economy
Premier Campbell states in a recent radio address that women entrepreneurs are growing and a driving force in B.C.'s strong economy. Today, women own 35% of our small businesses putting B.C. among the top three provinces for women entrepreneurs.
Forecasts suggest that by 2015, just 10 years away, their numbers will double to 264,000 across British Columbia. This is a great development.
Immigrant women are a big part of this story, too. One in five self-employed women were born outside of Canada.
More and more women are playing an ever increasing role in B.C.'s economic leadership. In fact, B.C. has the best job creation record in Canada because of women entrepreneurs and small business owners across this province.
Since 2001, B.C.'s generated nearly 370,000 new jobs. Most of them full time. This year we continue to create more jobs than any other province with 71,000 more people working here than a year ago. And in recent months, unemployment has hovered at, or near, the lowest level in three decades.
This is good news, not just for entrepreneurs, investors and their families, but for small business employees throughout B.C. who now number more than one million strong.
Our province is booming thanks to entrepreneurs and small business owners in every single corner. Including the many women whose vision, determination and hard work are creating better lives for themselves, their employees and all British Columbians.
We're going to continue to work, to work with small businesses all over B.C. to make sure our kids have the opportunities they deserve and the future that we can create for them.
Watch for your current issue of Kootenay Business magazine which highlights a number of successful women entrepreneurs in the Kootenays.
JULY 10
New brewhouse in Fernie
The new Fernie Brewing Company building is located at 26 Manitou Road in Fernie.
We’re brewing up a business at Fernie Brewing Company! In fact, so much so, that we’ve had to build ourselves a new brewhouse! Our new brewhouse, located at 26 Manitou Road (beside the Home Building Centre), will feature a tasting room and retail store, two additional fermentation tanks, and a state of the art water filtration system. At Fernie Brewing Company, we brew in small batches, handcrafting our ales and lagers using only four ingredients: barley malt, Rocky Mountain water, imported hops and yeast. Our Griz Pale Ale and First Trax Brown Ale are sold in six-pack cans throughout B.C. and Alberta liquor stores.
In celebration of our new brewhouse, we are launching our new Rocky Mountain Genuine Lager six-pack cans.
Source: Fernie Chamber News JULY 9 EAO invites the public to comment on the Glacier/Howser Project draft Terms of Reference
The B.C. Environmental Assessment Office (EAO) invites the public to comment on the draft Terms of Reference (ToR) for the Glacier/Howser Project (Project).
Purcell
Green Power Inc. (Proponent) is proposing to build, own and operate two hydroelectric facilities on the east side of Duncan Reservoir in the Regional District of Central Kootenay, approximately 15 kilometres north of Meadow Creek. The facilities would divert water from Glacier and Howser Creeks, and have a combined capacity that may reach 125 MW. The project includes a 230 kV transmission line that would cross the Purcell Mountain range and interconnect to a substation located in the Regional District of East Kootenay, six kilometres west of Invermere.
Written comments received by midnight on August 20, 2007, will be considered.
Please send your comments to:
Garry Alexander, Project Assessment Director
Environmental Assessment Office
PO Box 9426 Stn Prov Govt
Victoria, B.C. V8W 9V1
Fax: 250 356-6448
An electronic copy of the draft ToR, as well as information regarding the environmental assessment process, is available at www.eao.gov.bc.ca. JULY 6 New Best Western celebrates grand opening in Cranbrook
On sizzling hot day in July, the new Best Western Cranbrook Hotel and Hot Shots Kootenay Rockies Café, swung open their doors as they celebrated their grand opening. Located on busy Cranbrook Street the brand spanking new hotel with 90-guest rooms and suites is managed by Karen Harris and features a fully licensed restaurant operated by Hotshots. The new hotel will employ some 20 people and offers visitors to Cranbrook another quality accommodation choice complete with deluxe suites, exercise room, business centre, conference room, waterslide and pool and BBQ area.
General Manager David Kroeker, along with Cranbrook mayor Ross Priest and MP Jim Abbott were all in attendance for the official ribbon cutting ceremony. Both the mayor and MP spoke of the positive natural of that this type of development brings for the City of Cranbrook.
The new hotel is owned and operated by Huber Developments based out of Kelowna, the same people behind the Prestige Hotel and Resorts throughout B.C’s Interior.
The Best Western brand is one of the best known names in the hospitality industry and with the addition of these 90 rooms, the Prestige now has over 600 rooms in its group of hotels and resorts.
JULY 5
Shhh….very quiet opening
According to the Kootenay Express newspaper, the business duo of Tracy Fillion and Cathy Terepocki have opened a retail shop in the Queen City called Very Hush Hush. Tucked away on Herridge Lane next to the All Seasons Café, the new retail outlet is located in a refurbished 1964 Airstream trailer.
The new shop adds a unique touch to Nelson’s already eclectic retail mix with its lineup of clothing, jewellery and gift boutique. Very Hush Hush will be a seasonal feature—tentatively open from spring to fall each year. The owners/operators also are the artisans who produce much of what is for sale in the shop.
So remember, next time you are in Nelson, plan to make a quiet trip to a Very Hush Hush location.
JULY 4 Last ski season described as “epic snow” season
Kootenay Rockies Tourism and their tourism partners in the ski and snowboard business have come off an epic season, according Kootenay Rockies Tourism. It was just what the doctor ordered: fabulous snow and mostly cool, clear weather. The great conditions brought the crowds and media.
The situation contrasted with a ‘green’ winter in most of Europe. That meant, at any one time, there were up to a dozen different media groups checking out the Kootenay Rockies' snowsports products.
The epic snow season is resulting in some great publicity for the Kootenays. The Toronto Star, London’s Daily Mail (UK), Abenteuer & Reisen (Germany), Skiing Magazine (U.S.), Powder Magazine (U.S.) and dozens of others visited. Some stories have already run, many others will start appearing this fall.
JULY 3 U.S. votes to delay implementation of WHTI until June 2009 Members of the U.S. House Rules Committee have overwhelmingly voted to prohibit the implementation of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) anytime before June 2009.
The WHTI would have meant all U.S. visitors to Canada would have required a passport to enter and exit Canada. The FY 2008 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill passed by the House of Representatives in June by a vote of 268 to 150. In addition to delaying WHTI, the bill also included language to withhold U.S. $100 million from the funds required by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to implement WHTI until DHS determined if driver's licenses can be enhanced to meet with WHTI's requirements.
The move also requires DHS to fully test its proposed passport card before making it publicly available and develop a plan for land implementation that will be shared with the U.S. public.
Finally, a provision requires that DHS submit a report to Congress on the success of the driver's license pilot program and reveal its overall WHTI roadmap before being allowed to put the proposed WHTI documentary requirements into place.
