EXCELLENCEALBERNI VALLEY COMMUNITY

AWARDS 2014

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U P G R A D I N G | B U S I N E S S | C O M M U N I T Y C A R E | F I N E A R T S | H E A L T H | T O U R I S M | T R A D E S | U N I V E R S I T Y T R A N S F E R

Cost-eff ective solutions, tailored for your business needsStaying competitive in today’s changing marketplace means continually updating skills. Our custom training solutions are designed to bring out the best in your people, increasing productivity and on-the job performance. Training is off ered how, when, and where you need it.

Workplace Training Options: • Forklift Operator• Traffic Control Person• Leadership and Coaching Skills• Marine Training• Retail Training• Rigging• WSBC Occupational First Aid• And much much more

Visit www.nic.bc.ca/trainingservices or call 250-923-9723 today!

Workplace Training

5:30 pm Guests begin to arrive and register

6:00pmFinalists gather for group photograph

6:30 pmEveryone take their seatsFinalists arrive on the red carpetWelcome and IntroductionsGreetings from Mayor John Douglas 6:45 pmDinner

7:30pmGuest Speaker: Dr. James Lunney MP - Nanaimo/Alberni

7:45pmAwards presentation commences

8:45pmFinal bids for Penticton Travel Event

Thanks and Farewell

Thanks to the business community for: Gift certifi cate donations totalling $1200.00 for distribution in Penticton BC. In turn we receive $1200.00 in gift / travel certifi cates to auction off at our event. We thank McLean Mill for the gift packages they are providing for each of our fi nalists.

Community Excellence Gala Program

Social Media AwardThis business has fi gured it out. They are on line through various channels including a business Facebook page, likely a website and they’re not afraid to Tweet the good stuff. Their on line presence is informative, is image enhancing and through that presence they are demonstrating leadership.

For over 30 years, the goal of Finishing Touches has been to provide you with the ultimate in total body relaxation through spa services provided by professionally trained staff of unmatched experience.

We offer a wide range of clothing, accessories and footwear for men and women. Some of the brands we offer are Guess, Mavi, Dex, Mexx, Buffalo, Steve Madden, Skechers, Kenneth Cole and Fossil – its a one stop shop dressing you from head to toe. We provide our customers with an un-paralleled level of personal service. Our goal is to establish long lasting and trusting relationships with our customers while helping them feel confi dent about their head to toe appearance every time they leave our store. We want our customers to leave with a lasting impression so The Funk Trunk will be their fi rst choice when looking for that new outfi t.

When we bought our café in the summer of 2009 we were not only new to Serious Coffee but relatively new to Port Alberni, having moved here from Edmonton the year before.  The people of the Alberni Valley have embraced us as their own and for that we are very grateful.  Owning a business here has enabled us to be involved in events in the community that have become close to our hearts.  We are proud to offer entry level job experiences to the youth of the Alberni Valley which we hope will give them practical skills they can take with them in their future.  With great pride we participate in the ‘shopping locally’ initiative and see it reciprocated in our café by other business owners of Port Alberni.  Social Media is a huge part of our marketing, so we are honored to be a fi nalist in this category.

Clothing Company Inc.FASHION FOR MEN & WOMEN

FINISHING TOUCHES

THE FUNK TRUNK

SERIOUS COFFEE

WE ARE PROUD OF

and wish all nominees the very best

CAROL CUTFORTH

PORT ALBERNI KINSMEN& ALBERNI DISTRICT FALL FAIR ASSOCIATION64

64222

THANK YOUfor the nomination & congratulations

to all other nominees

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Green AwardA local business that places the environment high on its daily to do list. They are conscious of the community and they lead in overall green initiatives includ-ing technology, recycling and various other environmental goals.

We are into the third year developing Alberni Charters. We’ve worked hard developing a tour of the Barkley Sound fi shing, touring, with interesting anchorages and options that showcase our playground. It’s too late to ignore ecological impacts on our waterways. The Hybrid aspect was an obvious step for us. I’m very fortunate to have an incredible electrical support network within my family. We are very serious about fi shing and are developing of the world’s fi rst automated speed control hybrid electric system.We  travel Barkley Sound, and depending on your interests and time, we’ll look at the map and customize your trip. Our philosophy for success: LIVE AND LET LIVE. It’s perfect for sharing Barkley Sound.

The Naesgaard family arrived in Port Alberni in 1953, from Denmark.  The “gaard” means farm in Danish, so it seemed reasonable to continue tilling the soil in Canada.  The family fi rst farmed at McCoy Lake during the early 1960’s and then focused on fi elds along River Road. Second and third generations now handle the operations, with Asker Naesgaard and his crew growing a variety of crops in the fi elds, while nephew Chris manages the Farm Market.  The goal is to produce tasty quality vegetables and berries that customers can enjoy the same day they are picked.  Sustainable practises such as crop diversity and rotation and the utilization of cover crops facilitates continuous prosperous harvests.  The farm helps add an agricultural component to the Alberni Valley’s econo-my and culture. For the Naesgaard family the Farm and Market on River Road supports a lifestyle.  

The Salvation Army Thrift Store has been serving the community for more than 14 years providing good quality second hand clothing and household items for a reasonable price. We believe that we are stewards of creation.  We emphasize the importance of recycling in a variety of ways.  We achieve this through the sale of second-hand goods and recycling of everything we can, including milk jugs, stained/torn clothing, metal, and household electronics. Our success begins with our people. We invest in every team member, drawing on their strengths, challenging them to grow as individuals, and leading them towards their own successes. These successes give them a sense of pride in themselves, and in the business.  This contributes to the atmosphere of our store from the clean and bright interior to the friendly staff that greet you.

ALBERNI CHARTERS

NAESGAARD FARM & MARKET

SALVATION ARMY

“Your project is our business”“Your project is our business”

• COMMERCIAL• RESIDENTIAL• INSTITUTIONAL• TENANT IMPROVEMENT

TANYA - 250-735-2685 • MATT - 250-731-1082

Image Enhancement AwardThis business and/or property owner has taken it upon themselves to make you take a second look. They believe in the community and they present in a way that makes everyone proud.

 Aaron Vissia is a Certifi ed Financial Planner who has  worked in the Financial Services sector since 1996 and has enjoyed success in various business ventures. Born and raised in the Alberni Valley, Aaron understands the unique issues and concerns facing our community.Aaron takes a “hands on” approach to life including the inception and building of the AV Financial Center. Aaron designed the concept and did much of the carpentry work himself in conjunction with a crew of talented local contractors.  The renovated building next to Aaron Vissia Financial offers a full slate of expertise including bookkeeping, income tax preparation and mortgage broker services. Aaron and his wife Serena reside in Port Alberni with their daughters, Jessie and Jamie.  Aaron is a community leader and has volunteered as a minor hockey coach and board member.

As a young child growing up in Vancouver and Southeast Asia, Cheryl always dreamed of being an artist. In Alberta and Prince George for more than 20 years, she had small home-based studios where she spent most of her free time working in clay. After moving to Port Alberni in 2007, Cheryl realized she could fulfi ll her life’s dream of owning a studio/gallery where she could support herself and other artists/artisans. She purchased and repaired of an old character home that, with a new roof, and a lot of bright seaport blue paint, became her dream gallery! Blue Fish Gallery supports more than 40 local artists, and offers a wide range of beautiful and unusual handcrafted gifts. A large outdoor blackboard and a steady supply of chalk allows residents and visitors the opportunity to share their ideas, and Cheryl is inspired by the positive attitude of its many contributors.

Sproat lake landing has been in business for fi ve years, however we were decimated by fi re in March 2011 and have been working diligently to reopen. Sproat Lake Landing aspires to be a world class resort and is undergoing a comprehensive and exciting rebuilding project to create a memorable customer experience that tourists and seasonal visitors will enjoy and that local residents will be proud to call their own.  Upon completion in late 2015, Sproat Lake Landing will feature a dedicated West Coast Lodge, Boutique Inn, Formal and Casual Dining, Coffee and Pastry Bar, Cold Beer, Wine and Liquor Store and Lakeside Grocery and Convenience (open now!) a one-stop full service resort for all: residents, visitors, families and friends! We believe that Sproat Lake Landing is ideally situated at the “Middle of Everywhere” and our goal is to show the world why!

AARON VISSIA FINANCIAL

BLUE FISH GALLERY

SPROAT LAKE LANDING

Thank youPort Alberni for your generous

support!

Thank You for your Nomination!ALL THE BEST TO FELLOW NOMINEES

3949 Maple Way

723-7270

Our Second Location

Rising Star AwardA new kid in town, a business known but somewhere before their fi fth anniversary. They are leaders, they get customer service and their growth is obvious to all.

As a young child growing up in Vancouver and Southeast Asia, Cheryl always dreamed of being an artist. When she wasn’t working at a bank, Cheryl was working with clay. In Alberta and Prince George for more than 20 years, she had small home-based studios where she spent most of her free time (during her parenting years) working in clay. Shortly after moving to Port Alberni in 2007, she realized she could fulfi ll her life’s dream of owning a studio/gallery where she could support herself and other artists/artisans. She poured most of her savings into the purchase and repair of an old character home. Blue Fish Gallery supports more than 40 local artists, and offers a very wide range of beautiful and unusual handcrafted gifts. “I am grateful every day to be living in such a beautiful part of the world,” says Cheryl.

Kim Heeks has been in business in Port Alberni for almost 5 years. Jiffy Lube provides Automotive Fluid Maintenance . We provide Services for all makes and models of Cars and Light Trucks including Oil and Filter, Driveline Service, Coolant Services, Filter Services.   We provide No Appointment Drive Up Warranty Approved Service. Jiffy Lubes philosophy for success is to treat every customer the way you would like to be treated, providing exceptional Customer Service at Competitive Pricing EVERYDAY.

Larry Johannessen, a born and raised Port Albernian has been a pharmacist in the Valley for 24 years and opened the fi rst Medicine Shoppe on Southgate, seven years ago and two years ago opened a second location on Maple Way.The Medicine Shoppe pharmacy supplies prescriptions, ostomy supplies, blister packs and one on one consultation with clients.Johannessen’s philosophy for success is “Treat each person as you would want to be treated.”

BLUE FISH GALLERY

JIFFY LUBE

MEDICINE SHOPPE

We would like toCONGRATULATERhylie Leeon her Nominationand all the otherFinalists.

Dragon Martial Arts AcademyTae Kwon-Do & Royce Gracie Jiu-JitsuOver 30 Years Training in the Alberni Valley

250-723-2605 or 250-720-9556 · 2984 3rd Avenue

Port Alberni’s Premiere School of Self Defense

Warren Lee at 250-723-2605www.dragonmartialarts.ca

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Youth of the Year AwardA local resident who today at the ripe old age of under 19 is already becoming a com-munity leader. The award winner is known in many circles and has already created a resume that includes employment, volunteerism, passion for hobbies and has demon-strated long term goals known to many.

I am nominating Rhylie for a number of reasons: fi rstly, she is a very conscientious worker at the Multiplex and Glenwood Center. Her work ethic and commitment to her studies is unparalleled. She has been on the honour roll every year in school. She is currently the Totem Spirit Award winner at ADSS. Rhylie has volunteered for Parks and Recreation Summer Camps, Candy Striping at the Hospital, AV Show and Shine, and continues to volunteer her time between all her activities, school, and her work for Grad 2014, and ADSS Dance Team. Rhylie has been in Performing Arts dance classes for 16 years and also partakes in the family’s Martial Arts school and does Tae Kwon do and Brazilian Jui-Jitsu when she can.Rhylie has been employed by Parks and Recreation for 3 seasons now.

I am an honour roll student and perform with the ADSS dance team. I competed in the Skills Canada competition with Nathaniel Wynans, placing fi rst in TV&Video production at the regional competition. I have been a student at the Stage West School of Dance since age 3. I have trained in various types of dance and have won numerous awards. For the last four years I have been a busser and waitress at Smitty’s Family Restaurants. I also work for Coulson Manufacturing as a researcher in the marketing and sales department. I have been involved in a number of volunteer activities, including working with children in several different summer camps, fi lming a video for the Toy Run and volunteering for the local Shaw Cable station. In September I will be going to school at British Columbia’s Institute of Technology (BCIT) and to study broadcast television.

Rhylie Lee

Rachele VanZoren

Nathaniel Wynans

GillianTrumper

Congratulationsto all the Finalists!

1-855-866-1376info@alberniheritage.com / www.AlberniHeritage.com

You’re in for a Big Day Travelling Through the

Alberni Valley Heritage Network

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Tourism & Hospitality AwardA local business that services the public through food/beverage, accommodations or other tourism related activities. They have an active online presence through social networks such as Trip Advisor and they typically score very high in virtually all assessments.

When searching for the perfect Port Alberni hotel, there’s no reason to look any further than these unbeatable accommodations.Lodging in Port Alberni can be tough. Guests deserve both a wonderful price and stellar accommo-dations. They get the best of both worlds at this Port Alberni hotel. The customer service is unparal-leled, the location is divine, the value is unbelievable, and the services offered are nearly endless.Other hotels in Port Alberni try to keep up with the standards we’ve set. However, there’s no other place that offers the variety of services and perks that we consider “just how things are done”.

The Frances Barkley emulates the slower pace of life of yesteryear and while aboard guests have plenty of time to look for wildlife and enjoy the scenery as well as make the acquaintance of fellow passengers.Guests are invited to share their experiences with the ship’s crew when they are not engaged in landing at a wharf or fl oat, or loading/unloading freight. They will be pleased to answer questions and provide assistance. Guests are invited to bring their binoculars, camera, a warm jacket and casual clothes (you’re going aboard a working packet freighter) and thoroughly enjoy a day on the water!

McLean Mill National Historic Site opened July 1, 2000. It is a National Historic Site, owned by the City of Port Alberni and operated by the Western Vancouver Island Industrial Heritage Society. Mc-Lean Mill is the only operating steam-powered sawmill in Western Canada.  One of two operation-al steam donkeys in North America.  Serviced by a 1929 Baldwin steam locomotive. The McLean Mill, and Alberni Pacifi c Railway, are listed as a “GEM” attraction by the American Automobile Association, one of only a few found on Vancouver Island.Port Alberni’s “Steam Powered Adventure” was chosen as Vancouver Island North’s best shore excursion in an exit survey conducted by Cruise BC.Our keys to excellence are Safety, Courtesy, Show, Effi ciency.

BEST WESTERN PLUS BARCLAY

LADY ROSE MARINE SERVICES

MCLEAN MILL

Way to go Pat Deakin!Congratulations from Terry

and the staff at INEO

Good Luck!

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I am proud ofyou Big Bro!

I wish allnomineesthe very best! Valerie

Deakin250•720•6433

VAL’S GARDEN GALS“a growing adventure”

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NEWSAlberni ValleyChamber of Commerce Award

The recipient of this award is directly connected to the Chamber of Commerce, either as a member or director. Through their participation the Chamber of Commerce clearly benefi ts.

I have lived here on 3 different occasions for a total of about 18 years; I have been here as the Economic Development Manager for 6 and ½ years.My current involvement with a variety of projects and causes revolves mostly around my job and while I may be meeting with folks during evenings and weekends on a regular basis I view that as part of my commitment to the community and really like my work so I don’t think the award should come to me. My philosophy for success: Have a vision; expect positive outcomes; never give up; work hard; play nice; be happy.

Bob Kanngiesser, has resided in Port Alberni since 1987. He served in the Royal Canadi-an Air Force as a Radio Offi cer from 1958-1965. After leaving the military, he achieved a Bachelor of Commerce degree from University of Alberta in 1969. Bob worked for 17 years in Oil & Gas and Chemical industry. He also served 17 years as Secretary-Treasurer of Alberni School District, retiring in 2003. He is Past President North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce 1977-1978 Alderman, District of Kitimat 1984-1986,Director and Chairman, Port Alberni Port Authority, 1999-2003 and 2004-2010,Director, Chairman Civic Affairs Committee, Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce since May 2013.

PAT DEAKIN

BOB KANNGEISSER

Congratulates andThanks All Volunteers!

You make our community a better place to live.

If you would like to become a member of our community minded group, call Rob @ 250-724-0558.

The Alberni Valley Lions Club

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Volunteer of the Year AwardA resident of the Valley this person’s name is known by many. They may be involved in many organizations or simply super involved in one. They roll up their sleeves for the betterment of Port Alberni and they absolutely love doing what they do.

Carol Cutforth has been involved with the Alberni District Fall Fair Association since she was a child, as her parents Willie and Brenda Smith were heavily involved in the organization. She has since then risen through the ranks and was Fall Fair Chairman last year. She continues to dedicate her time and talents to this Valley tradition and does it for the love of Fair.

After leaving Europe in the mid 1950’s and settling in Northern Alberta, I watched my parents adapt to our new home by volunteering within the community. Moving to Port Alberni in the mid 1960’s, I followed suit as this community welcomed us. Over 40 plus years I have been involved with the Royal Canadian Legion, Canadian Cancer Society, Girl Guides, Summer Swim Club, Tall Ships, Centennial Committee, AV Musical Theatre, Portal Players and the Community Arts Council. Currently I volunteer with the Archives, Alberni Valley Heritage Commission, Port Alberni Junior Hockey Society, Alberni Valley Bulldogs, Alberni Valley Bulldogs Booster Club and the Tourist Infor-mation Centre. I love to travel, complete Suduko puzzles, read, genealogy and attend live theatre performances. Port Alberni opened its arms to me and there is no other place I would rather be!

Alberni Valley Minor Hockey’s Honorary Life Time Member, Marilyn Gibson, has been named as a fi nalist for Volunteer of the Year, in the Alberni Valley Community Excellence Awards that will be given out a banquet on April 25th, 2014. Sharlene Check wrote, ” in my nomination letter you go above and beyond dedicating your time for the people of Port Alberni either by selling 50/50, chaperoning, committees, the list goes on and on! So Marilyn – Congratulations and Thank You for all you done with your volunteer-ing that benefi ted this association, and my family!” Marilyn has been active with Alberni Valley Minor Hockey for over 30 years when her sons were in meetings, organizing the annual photo day, awarding scholarships to AVMHA players, attending to the repair of hockey jerseys only to name a few. Marilyn has been recognized by Alberni Valley Minor Hockey for her long time volunteer work in the past and again congratulates her for this current honor.

CAROL CUTFORTH

GARETH FLOSTRAND

MARILYN GIBSON

Your UptownCoffee Shop

7:00 am-11:00 amLight Breakfast

11:30 am-2:00 pm Homemade Soup & Sandwich

3025 A 3rd Avenue 778-421-3000

pp

Delicious Home-Baked Goods

We are proud to have designed and created the Awards

Community Excellence

Awards

www.engravingbyladybird.com4544 Adelaide St

250-723-5239

Ladybird Engraving

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Special Recognition AwardAwarded to a fi xture of the community in the business and/or community involve-ment. This nominee is active in the community through his/her daily business ven-tures and is known to support the community as a whole.

I’ve owned Boutique Belles Amies for 10 years. I genuinely love my store, my staff and my custom-ers.  My mother always said the secret to success is to surround yourself with good people. I have that with Jodie and Carol.  When John & I fi rst came to Port 17 years ago we would have visitors and I would take them to a little boutique down on Argyle St.  One day Sandra Lamoureux asked if I would like to come and play with them at the store, seven years later I bought it. I lost a very dear friend this year and his whole business philosophy was customer service, customer service and cus-tomer service....he followed that through 100 stores - Lordco Auto Parts.  I believe that Btq. Belles Amies is like the little engine that could. At Btq. Belles Amies we also serve women before, during and after breast surgery, at a time in their lives when they need a very special kind of care.

Hertel Meats Ltd. was created in 1967, a small family enterprise, providing slaughter, cutting & wrapping of beef, pork and game for local farmers and hunters. Within 10 years a major plant ex-pansion was completed providing full time employment for many local people. In the mid 80’s, Tom Hertel recognized and responded to a need he saw in his customers, developing Hertel’s now re-nowned line of fresh sausages processed without wheat gluten, lactose (milk) products, or artifi cial preservatives. He also created a naturally smoked bacon cured without the use of sodium nitrite, nitrate or other chemical preservatives. Hertels was also a pioneer in the production of products seasoned without the use of MSG. The reputation and success of Hertel Meats LTD can be directly attributed to the old fashioned family work ethic of the founders, Thomas and Helena Hertel.

Jowsey’s Furniture and Appliances was founded in 1947 at its current location on Johnston road by Jack and Aili Jowsey. They bought the location, formerly Anderson’s Cafe, and opened a variety store called “Home Variety and Electric.” Jack and Aili grew their little store and re-named it “Jowsey’s Home Variety and Electric.” To Jack’s delight, they brought in t.v. sets as soon as they were available. In the late 60’s, my dad, Brian Dodsworth, joined the team at Jowsey’s. My mom eventually worked part time at Jowsey’s too. In the early 90’s, my parents sold the business (but not the building) to a family from Alberta. After 4 or 5 years, that family had a close-out sale and left. A phone call later, we were making plans to move to Port Alberni from the Kootenays to join Jowsey’s and have owned the business ever since.

BOUTIQUE BELLES AMIES

HERTEL’S MEATS

JOWSEY’S FURNITURE

We are proudto have you as part

of our team!!

Congratulations

Dani

6464142

PORT ALBERNIAlways Open with Two Locations Lower Johnston Road and at 10th & Redford

» 2014 Vancouver Island Retail Company of the Year

» 2013 Alberni Valley Business Excellence Award

» 2010 Alberni Valley Customer Service Excellence Award

Proud to be part of anaward-winning

business community!

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Customer Service AwardAwarded to an individual who may own or simply work at a local business. This person wears their badge proudly. He/she knows how to greet a customer and through their actions they create repeat business simply by demonstrating respect and courtesy in the marketplace.

Quality Foods has been operating in Port Alberni for more than 18 years. At that time Gord had already been working in the Qualicum location for 2 years being groomed by owner John Briuolo. He learned from an early age that Quality Foods was built on customer service, hard work and community involvement. Gord brought these core values to the Port Alberni Quality Foods location after taking on the role of store manager in May of 2011. Three years later he continues to preach the same philosophy to the 60 staff members, many of whom have worked at the store since its opening. Gord can be found spending most of his time on the fl oor where he can assist the cus-tomers and much more time helping out in the community.

I’ve owned Boutique Belles Amies for 10 years. I genuinely love my store, my staff and my custom-ers.  My mother always said the secret to success is to surround yourself with good people. I have that with Jodie and Carol.  When John & I fi rst came to Port 17 years ago we would have visitors and I would take them to a little boutique down on Argyle St.  One day Sandra Lamoureux asked if I would like to come and play with them at the store, seven years later I bought it. I lost a very dear friend this year and his whole business philosophy was customer service, customer service and cus-tomer service....he followed that through 100 stores - Lordco Auto Parts.  I believe that Btq. Belles Amies is like the little engine that could. At Btq. Belles Amies we also serve women before, during and after breast surgery, at a time in their lives when they need a very special kind of care.

This is the second year Dani Hovind has been nominated for her cheery smile and exceptional customer service over the many years she has worked at Tim Hortons in Port Alberni. Dani says she enjoys serving the people of Port Alberni and helping to make sure they have great coffee and a great day!

GORD GROVES-QUALITY FOODS

BOUTIQUE BELLES AMIES STAFF

DANI HOVIND-TIM HORTONS

Business Excellence AwardAwarded to a local business that defi nes everything business. Innovation, Customer Service, Product Improvement & Community Partnerships.

Jeff Brown deserves recognition for his hard work, dedication and perseverance. He has grown his business from a small independent to a full-fl edged logging company in a very short period of time becoming a prime contractor for Timberwest. His business has grown by 500% and he now employs 7 people as well as another 6 part time individuals. He has purchased new equipment that breaks rock for road construction in an environmentally-sound way. He is the only company on Vancouver Island using this particular type of equipment. Browns provide a safe and environmen-tally aware service that is worry free. Backed with great quality and consistent results.

Gayle’s was established in 1983...that’s 31 years (and counting)! We are a ladies’ fashion retail store, and also have a dancewear division. The fashion department attracts women from all demo-graphics. The dancewear area has footwear and bodywear for the dance students, plus bodywear for ice-skaters and gymnasts. The customers range in age from 3 to 103! Gayle is involved in the community. Uptown Merchants- After having recently completed two years as President. Womens’ Business Network- The current project is to carry on our Canada day Parade. A.V. Museum and Heritage Commission- On the board of this group. Positively Alberni- This group of upbeat, ener-getic individuals are working on ways to create positive attitudes.Philosphy for Success- The not so secret, secret to success is #1) Love what you do, and #2) Maintain a positive profi le.

Conveniently located in downtown Port Alberni, the Little Bavaria Restaurant has specialized in German food and hospitality since 1966. Featuring the freshest of ingredients, our delicious cuisine is served in an intimate and cozy atmosphere by our friendly staff.For that special occasion, business dinner, or family outing, come and experience the Little Bavaria Restaurant. We guarantee you will be treated like family by our “family”. In Port Alberni, the Little Bavaria Restaurant is the place to be!

Opened in May of 2010 Van Isle Ford Sales has gone from having 14 full time employees to now having over 23 full time employees in 2014. In the past four years Van Isle Ford has seen its busi-ness grow well over 300% in four years. In February of 2014, Van Isle Ford was recognized by the Ford Motor Company as one of only 36 Ford franchises in Canada to win the 2013 ‘Diamond Club Presidents Award’ It is the highest award a Ford dealership can receive. 2014 will see fulfi llment of a new facility on Beaver Creek Road that will open mid Summer. Opened in November of 2012, Pacifi c Chevrolet was the evolution of wanting to expand our automotive operations. “When the opportunity came about to reinvest in the Valley it was a very simple choice for us”- Will Pulford. In the spring of 2013 Pacifi c Chevrolet completed renovations under the new General Motors Image program. All construction was completed by local contractors.

Valley Vision has been in business for 54 years; Dr. Golemba has owned the practice since 2005.Our aspiration is to be known as the Island’s most patient-centric practice that is best able to preserve vision, maximize vision, and enhance lives.In their effort to fulfi ll their aspirations, Dr. Golemba and his team of professionals have created centres of excellence around Macular Degeneration, Dry Eyes, Glaucoma, and Vision Therapy. This involved multiple planning sessions and about a $120,000 investment in technology unmatched anywhere else on the Island.They recognize the importance of customer service and in addition to in-house training, they were the fi rst to invest in the World Host Program introduced by the Chamber of Commerce.

BROWNS GENERAL EXCAVATION

GAYLE’S FASHIONS

LITTLE BAVARIA

WILL PULFORD

VALLEY VISION

Congratulations to those nomi-nated. You make us Port Alberni Proud! to those nominated.

You make usPort Alberni Proud!

Congratulations

6464133

Citizen of the YearAwarded to a local person whose name is recognized in many circles through their business and/or personal contributions.

Ryan Dvorak was born to Josef and Diane Dvorak and was raised in Port Alberni. Ryan attended ADSS and was active in wrestling and rugby. After completing University he moved back to his hometown and continued an active involvement working for Kenn Whiteman’s Pinnacle Youth Works. He also pursued a contracting/consulting business and performed a number of roles in the forest sector. Ryan has has been active on many committees, boards, and has been a member of the A.V. Lions since 2002. Returning to school later in life Ryan worked to complete a Bachelor of Education from Malspina and later completed a Masters degree in Educational Leadership. He is currently the Forestry and Project Based Learning teacher at Alberni District Secondary school. He is an involved member of the school community, chairing a number of committees. Involving young people in sport has been, and continues to be, a focus of Ryan’s personal and professional life and he has been a coach for the Alberni Wrestling Club for over a decade. On a Provincial level, Ryan is an active member of the B.C. Truck Loggers education committee, a board member of the Festival of Forestry, and has presented at numerous conventions and conferences on issues of integrating education with experience. Ryan married the love of his life Pam in 2008 and together they enjoy the lifestyle that Port Alberni offers.

I moved to Port with my husband and young family at a time when the community was going through an extremely diffi cult time.  Forestry and mill jobs were being cut, and so many of the people I met in that fi rst year were facing job loss and early retirement that they weren’t prepared for.  Almost everyone I spoke to seemed fearful about their future and the future of Port Alberni – but every so often there was somebody who had seized the moment of change and turned it into a positive for themselves.  I had done some motivational speaking in the past and  decided that I wanted to be part of that positive transition. I  approached Shaw Community Program-ming to begin volunteering with the hope that I could present Port Alberni’s stories in a way that would inspire.  I’ve now been an employee of Shaw for 16 years and have had the honor of telling hundreds of those stories.  I’ve met individuals who have triumphed against unimaginable odds, groups that have worked tirelessly to improve the world around them, and elders who have lived lives of dignity and grace. I’ve also been lucky enough to work as a volunteer with many local groups, most recently with Pot Luck Ceramics, and have taken part in dozens of  events and fundraisers by many of the organizations that I’ve profi led.  In the end it’s been me who has been inspired by Port Alberni and the people who live here, and am humbled to have been included in a group of citizens that I deeply admire.

RYAN DVORAK

NANCY WILMOT

Your excellence isimportant to theAlberni Valley nowand in the future.

CONGRATULATIONSTO ALL THE NOMINEES.

6450907

2013 AMBASSADORSWant to join these happy people in helping visitors discover the

Alberni Valley? Give the Chamber of Commerce offi ce a call!

PLATINUM THE SEE GROUP

 

GOLDRabinder Dhillon, Arrowsmith Rotary, Save On Foods,Duncan Sabine Collyer Partners, Island Timberlands,

Port Alberni Port Authority, Gillian Trumper 

SILVERAlberni Valley News, Alberni Valley Times,

The Graphics Factory, Jiffy Lube 

BRONZEScotiabank

 

IN KINDCity of Port Alberni – Economic Development, City of Port Alberni –

Recreation Dept, Heather’s Balloon Magic, McLean Mill, The Peak Radio, Quality Foods, Char’s Landing, Ladybird Engraving, Hummingbird Guest

House, Lady Rose Marine Services, Whiskey Landing Lodge

Alberni Valley Chamber of Commerce appreciates the generous contributions

of those who supported the2014 Community Excellence Awards

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