Chamber Connection December 2011 Edition

Volume 7 • Number 6 MISSION CHAMBER OF COMMERCE December 2011

For BusinessChristmas is always a per-

fect time for a good news story so holler it from the rooftops: “Mission is Open for Business.”

Initiatives that have been achieved in the last year, cou-pled with a new Mayor and Council that list economic development as a key man-date herald change is in the wind for Mission’s economic potential.

In November, Invest North Fraser, a regional economic development initiative of Maple Ridge, Mission and Pitt Meadows, launched a joint web portal to highlight the investment opportunities north of the Fraser River.

“The District of Mission is very pleased to be a part-ner in Invest North Fraser, and welcomes the launch of the new INF web por-tal,” said Stacey Crawford Economic Development Officer for Mission.

“The web portal will serve as a single platform upon which the three part-ner communities can lever-age resources, share infor-mation, build relationships and promote regional eco-nomic development initia-tives.”

Additionally, last week the Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Innovation partnered with Invest North Fraser to host a Regional Economic Investment Pilot

aimed at attracting invest-ment, identifying opportuni-ties, economic diversification and job creation in areas con-sistent with the BC Jobs Plan.

The forum, held December 8th, included representatives from local government, busi-ness, industry, First Nations and education.

It explored investment opportunities and shared solu-tions to overcoming barriers. By the end of the forum, an inventory of potential proj-ects and an initial action plan on how b e s t to implement them were expected to have been created.

The provincial government will assist the North Fraser by developing an intensified approach to capitalize on those opportunities.

“The North Fraser commu-nities have a lot to offer the B.C. economy. We are rich in resources and have abundant agricultural land. This forum will help the Fraser Valley work together to attract invest-ment, create jobs and show the world Canada really does start here.” states Abbotsford-Mission MLA Randy Hawes.

While work is being done to attract economic develop-ment to Mission, municipal staff have been working to

break down some of the barri-

ers and red tape that have impeded the process to devel-opment.

At a recent CHBA-FV Dinner, Mission’s Deputy CAO, Paul Gipps relayed the many changes that have been implemented as part of the Development “A” team strat-egy. He spoke to the modifi-cations to department process, legal process and communica-tion.

The customer focused ini-tiative includes focus and speed, rapid decisions and a “can-do” attitude. Projects that haven’t checked in for more than 10 days are con-tacted, clear lines of commu-nication are developed and proponents meet with a team from all departments that will have input in the process.

“Our job is not to impede your process,” noted Gipps. “We want to hear from you what market demand is. We look to partner with you.” He concluded with the mes-sage that the District under-stands time is money for the builders and developers and that there is a willingness to work with them to minimize the impact of red tape.

With three major com-mercial undertakings to be complete in 2012 and other developments poised to start, Mission is definitely looking like it is “Open for Business.”

mission’s open

Page 2 • December 2011 MISSION CHAMBER CONNECtION

2011Board of Directors

President - Cal Crawford

Past President - Helen Secco

Vice-President - Elyssa Lockhart

Treasurer - Tony LaPointe

Directors 2011

Todd Bugge Sean Melia Phil Hope Kelly Vaille

Attila Davalovsky Charles Vander Byl

Satti Grewal Ann Harper

District of Mission Councillor Dave Hensman

Staff

Michelle Favero Manager

Angel Elias Member Services

Allison Jack Tourism Coordinator

Mission RegionalChamber

of Commerce34033 Lougheed Hwy Mission, BC V2V 5X8

Phone: 604-826-6914 Fax: 604-826-5916

www.missionchamber.bc.ca

President’s Message

Cal Crawford

2011-A Successful Year for the ChamberIt amazes me how the year

seems to fly by and our January goals quickly disappear until we take stock on December 31. As I look back on what we set out to accomplish at the Chamber this year, I am happy to report that, unlike most resolutions, the Chamber has had a successful year in all areas.

Key this year was the increased value we wanted to offer members. The Board of Directors understands that members are the purpose of the Chamber. For you to find value in your investment in us, we need to make sure that we offer benefits and opportunities that help leverage your business.

Early in the year we rolled out the new Chamber website. More comprehensive, with an advanced business directory, ability to post your “Hot Deals”, events and jobs, as well as refer and be referred by others, the website offers great web pres-ence for members. Within the web based business directory you can promote your website, social media and provide a map to your location. Our website continues to be one of the most visited sites in Mission, with an average 1,500 visits a month.

This new system gave us the ability to connect with you more efficiently by email and offer on-line registration and payment for all our events. We have seen a significant increase over the year of members using this option and many tell us they prefer the convenience and reduced emails.

With the new website, mem-bers also have a direct link to us 24/7. With your member login you can register for events, man-age your directory listing, post your events, sales and deals. It also gives you access to what I believe is one of the biggest value pieces that we offer, The Mission Handbook for Major

Projects.Recognizing the $1 billion in

infrastructure that will be taking place in our area over the next 6 years, the Chamber has devel-oped the handbook in partner-ship with Mission’s Economic Development Office. The Major Projects Handbook is a guide for those large companies work-ing on these infrastructure proj-ects to Mission’s businesses. BC Hydro included the handbook in the Ruskin Dam Upgrade ten-ders. The handbook’s focus is to position Mission business top of mind to those unfamiliar with what our business community has to offer.

2011 saw increased train-ing and education offerings for members. We partnered with E-learning Network to offer on-line staff training, and with com-munity Futures North Fraser’s video conferencing programs. Additionally, during small busi-ness month the Chamber offered many affordable lunch & learns and a free e-marketing semi-nar. The sold out events show the value you place on quick affordable learning opportunities and we hope to offer more in 2012. We also offered a valu-able session on opportunities for business around large infrastruc-ture projects. Will you be offer-ing new services or products to service their need. Remember

to update your listing in the Handbook.

In addition to the tangible benefits, the Board also has taken a stronger advocacy role for membership. Advocacy success in 2011 has included the adop-tion of Biz Pal, Development “A” Team, Municipal Communications Strategy and support of many projects such as the Ruskin Dam Upgrade. We have taken part in provin-cial roundtables on finance, the jobs initiative, and transportation and our roundtable on Home Based Business created some municipal initiatives to enhance opportunity for that sector. The Chamber also participated in many local task forces, and has given input to regional transit planning, community energy and emissions plan and educational initiatives.

This level of influence also allowed us to hold four success-ful non-partisan all candidates meetings for the community this year. Attendance was the high-est ever. I believe it speaks to the Chamber’s ability to effec-tively communicate the issues at hand and provide successful formats for candidates to engage with the audience. Thank you to all that volunteered, sponsored and supported these meetings as well as the Golf Tournament, Business Excellence Awards and Candlelight Parade this past year. Without your support, they would not be the extremely suc-cessful events that we have come to expect from the Chamber.

All in all 2011 has been a great year for the Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce and I look forward to all that is in store for 2012.

Have a wonderful holiday season, Merry Christmas and all the best in 2012!

MISSION CHAMBER CONNECtION December 2011 • Page 3

Randy Hawes, MLA(Abbotsford-Mission)T: 604.820.6203 • F: [email protected]

Did you know?

Marc Dalton, MLA(Maple Ridge-Mission)

T: 604.820.6203 • F: [email protected]

Shared Constituency Office33058 First Ave. Mission V2V 1G3

Did you know?Your MLA’s office can help you with:• Provincial government related issues• Certification of copies of important documents• Arranging congratulatory messages• Providing information on government programs

Government NewsLooking to represent

business at the table? Want to have an impact on the decision-making of the Chamber?

Nominations are now being accepted for the Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. There will be four positions for election at the March 2012 AGM.

In order to be nominat-ed, your business must be in good standing with the Chamber, and your nomi-nation must be supported by two other members.

Nominations are being accepted until January 31, 2012. For a nomination package contact Michelle Favero [email protected]

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604-826-6736Pit - 11496 Dewdney Trunk, MissionMail: Box 3663, Mission, BC V2V 4L2

Mission residents sent a loud message to municipal hall on November 19th that they support a business agen-da which includes reduced taxation and a core service review by electing the CRMG slate.

The Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce looks forward to working with the Mayor Ted Adlem and the CRMG Council to ensure that business taxation is reduced, development issues are addressed, and economic development remains a driver of the growth of Mission.

“It is important the com-munity continue to move

forward with the economic development momentum that has begun to build over the last year,” states Cal Crawford, Chamber President. “Mission needs to continue to con-vey that ‘We are Open for Business’ and encourage the economic growth that will sustain our community into the future.”

The Chamber also extends thanks to the previous Council for its years of dedication to the community, and for its support of Chamber initia-tives.

“Mayor James Atebe has served the community well, and has served on the Board of

Directors of the Chamber for over 10 years as the District’s liaison,” notes Crawford. “We extend many thanks to him for his years of service.”

“Community leadership is a difficult job, requiring many hours in meetings, reading reports and listening to com-munity members… all with little pay.

“Those who step forward are dedicated, serving the greater good without person-al gain. We applaud all who have served in the role, and those that have now taken on this mantle of responsibility.”

New Mayor, Council Elected on Business PlatformNominations now

being accepted


Chamber of Commerce Committee News

Todd Bugge

Look for the Chamber meeting schedule on the Mission Chamber webpage. Contact Chamber staff if you are interested in participating.

Go to www.missionchamber.bc.ca to get all your news and information on business in Mission

Elyssa Lockhart

(604) 217-1161www.fvos.ca

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Events Committee, Todd Bugge, ChairAnother great Candlelight Parade. The Country 107 Christmas Tree lighting by Parade Grand Marshall

Operation Red Nose Rudolph set the tone for what some say was the best parade ever. The introduction of additional parking and a new traffic plan helped mitigate some of the challenges with this growing event. We are looking at tweaking even more for next year. Interested in volunteering for the parade or in joining the Committee? Contact Angel Elias, [email protected]

Government Affairs, Elyssa Lockhart, ChairThe Chamber has had a very successful year advocating on behalf of the members. Critical to this suc-

cess is the work that is done by the Government Affairs Committee. Come join us and have an impact in your community. Present issues that the committee is working on include the CEAA process as it impacts development, the Fraser River as a sustainable transportation route, Municipal Auditor General and mobile business licensing. If you have a business concern, or issue that affects business in Mission that you feel the Chamber should speak on, please contact the Government Affairs Committee through Michelle Favero, [email protected]

Membership Committee, Ann Harper, ChairYour membership investment has been sent out. We look forward to your renewal so that in addition to the

many benefits we already offer, you will be able to participate in the new member opportunities coming in 2012. Ever try speed networking? How about a night of curling and networking? Interested in better market position? Are you communicating to your customers? Stay tuned for more info in 2012. If you are interested in participating in the Membership Committee contact Angel Elias, [email protected]

Tourism Committee, Cal Crawford, ChairThis fall has brought many eagles and visitors to Mission. This year’s Bald Eagle Festival saw more than

350 visitors at the VIC. Committee plans for 2012 include development of a geocaching program for Mission and new marketing opportunities. Make sure to get in the 2012 Visitor Guide. Over 30,000 are delivered all over BC. Maximize your exposure to those looking at visiting Mission. For more information on the Tourism Committee please contact Allison Jack, Tourism Coordinator at [email protected]

Ann Harper

Cal Crawford


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This will be the last edition of the Chamber Connection in this format. The Connection has been distributed to all businesses from 287th to Harrison Mills on the north side of the Fraser, and to all Chamber members outside this area for over 20 years.

It has brought you regional business news and affordable advertising with exposure to 1,000 businesses.

Arcadia Publishing, which has printed the newsletter for more than seven years, is shutting its doors December 31st. While we are saddened to see such a vital business go, the Chamber is looking at

this as an opportunity to bring you the newsletter in a new format.

Starting March 2012 a monthly four-page colour supplement will be included in the Mission City Record the second Thursday of the month.

This newsletter will con-tinue to offer you the local business and Chamber news that you have come to expect in the Chamber Connection.

For those of you who have faithfully advertised in the Chamber Connection over the years, there will be affordable advertising opportunities in the new format, with a sig-nificant increase of exposure that leverages your Chamber membership.

Distribution for the new format will be over 10,000.

For more information con-tact Crystal Orchidson at 604-820-5453.

The Mission City Record will include the supplement in its on-line postings, and the Chamber will continue to post the newsletter on its social media and web pages.

Remember, if you pur-chase ads, to include your web address. They automati-cally hyper link on-line.

Members of the Chamber will continue to receive a more focused monthly e-newsletter offering specific information and opportunities that are a result of their investment.

Thank you for supporting this version of the Chamber Connection. Please look for our new format in March 2012, and send us your feed-back.

No more mailed editions asnewsletter moves to new format

Market to those looking to visit Mission & residents alike, by purchasing space in the Visitor Guide.

What you get:

• 30,000 printed copies distributed across BC

• Glossy colour ad with 1 yr. shelf life

• On-line version posted on Chamber website

• Include Web address to ensure on-line hyper link

• Include QR code to drive smart- phone traffic to you

Contact Crystal at the Mission City Record, 604.820.5453, to book your space for 2012.

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We want to ensure your business thrives in the current economic environment.

Whether you’re just starting up or expanding and need free advice, or if you need capital to stabilize your business, contact our Business Consultant or our Business Analyst.

28th Candlelight Parade

This year’s parade VIPs were cozy in their red blankets, with hot chocolate, as well as cinnamon buns.

The little donkey pulling a cart was a big hit with the audience. Decorated so festively, he just looked darned cute.

Everyone was commenting that this year’s parade seemed to bring out even more young children than ever, which was a great thing.

The Fraser Valley Building Supplies Christmas train came rolling into town with lots of lights and plenty of Christmas cheer.


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Friday, December 2nd was a clear, warm night, perfect for watching the 28th Mission Candlelight Parade!

“This is such a great community event and the Chamber is proud to be able to put it on every year,” stat-ed Cal Crawford, Chamber President. “It was good to see so many more young fami-

lies. Santa told me he had never seen so many young children along the route.”

It is estimated that more than 11,000 spectators enjoyed the holiday sights and sounds.

The VIP Contest winners enjoyed the judge’s stand view with Grab-a-Java and Starbucks hot chocolate

and Cobbs Bread cinnamon scones. Toasty in their red blankets, they enjoyed the more than 70 parade entries.

The winners of the 28th Candlelight Parade are:

Commercial1st - Fraserway RV2nd - Fraser Valley

Building Supplies3rd - She’s My Florist

Non-Profit1st - Parkside Church2nd - Abbotsford Recycling3rd - Rotary Clubs

of Mission

School1st - WJ Mouat Drags2nd - Valley Christian School3rd - Deroche Elementary

Individuals1st - Mike Hopkins2nd - Clysedale Horses3rd - Henry the Pickup

Marching Band1st - MEI Middle School2nd - Royal Canadian

Sea Cadets3rd - Royal Canadian

Air Cadets

Musical Presentation1st - Mission Hills

Community Church2nd - Stave Falls Scottish

Dancers3rd - Aerial Dance &

Acro Academy

The Mission Chamber offers a special thank you to this year’s sponsors. Without their participation the parade would not be such a huge success. They also offer their thanks to the businesses that welcome so many into the downtown core and to the community for making it such a safe and enjoyable event that showcases the commu-nity spirit Mission has.

draws roughly 11,000

It was good to see Santa Claus back in town for his annual pre-Christmas visit to Mission to check on all the good little boys and girls (above) in our commu-nity. And it would appear that everyone was intent on being good because parade watchers filled the Mission Christmas Bureau chest with toys and food for those who need help this year (right). Meantime, the parade judges looked like they were taking their roles pretty darned seriously (far right)… guess they weren’t taking any chances with the big guy either.


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The Candlelight Parade is a community event that requires many hands.

We would like to thank:

Premier SponsorsScotia Bank

Downtown Business AssociationMission RacewayProspera Credit UnionCountry 107.1Chances, MissionSmart Centres

Platinum SponsorsRotary Clubs of MissionThe Shops at Mission HillsVancityMission Record

Thank you to our many volunteers and donors:• Boston Pizza• Starbucks• Pete’s Place• Cobs Bread• RCMP• Grab A Java• District of Mission• Heather Kardal• One Stop Traffic Control • School District 75• Mission Fire Department

• Historic Dewdney Pub• Mission Amateur Radio• Bill Hunter• Fraser Valley

Building Supplies• Dry Grads of Mission

& Heritage Park • Mission Optimist Club• Cal Crawford• CPO Office• Jim & Mary Hinds • Phil Hope • Gio & Sophia Favero• Coast Eagle Safety• Rosetta Favero• Doug Pearson• Karen Turner

Candlelight Parade Thank Yous

The Mission Mid-day Rotary Club has provided funds for?

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A) Wetland Trails for SilverdaleB) Local ScholarshipsC) Habitat for HumanityD) Shelterbox Program - sending survival packs to HaitiE) ALL OF THE ABOVE...AND MORE!!


Auditor General set to transform local governmentsBC Chamber News

Lisa, our training rep in the Chamber Learning Network office, forwarded a link she found on the Government of Canada’s Human Resources Development and Skills Canada website. They tried to develop a job description of a Small Business Owner-Operator.

Yikes…this is going to be fun. It would probably have been a more efficient use of time to make a list of what a small business owner doesn’t do, but that wasn’t their pur-pose. I read on.

The site documents the essential skills for the job, which include: reading text, writing, numeracy, oral com-munication, thinking skills, including problem solving, decision making, critical

thinking, job task planning and organizing, significant use of memory (oh no! I’m doomed!), finding informa-tion, working with others, computer use, and finishing the list, continuous learning.

As I read the list, I thought of the quote from author Alvin Toffler: “The illiterate of the 21st century will not be those who cannot read and write, but those who cannot learn, unlearn, and relearn.”

Who more exemplifies this than a small business owner? If a small business owner does not continually adapt to changing circumstanc-es in their client base, their economy and their industry, always finding ways to make and save money, they quickly wrap up shop.

What is a small business owner to do? How will they ever do everything that needs to be done? How will they train staff? How will they tweet and blog and Facebook?

You may be a business owner who has an inkling that there is a way to use spreadsheet software to ana-lyze your cash flow, but what owner has the time to take a course at the local community college?

And what do you mean, “I make terrible coffee, and there’s going to be a staff mutiny if I don’t get this fig-ured out?”

One part of the answer to these ever changing questions is to join your local Chamber of Commerce and take advan-tage of the small business

solutions it offers.An organization where a

business owner can find the support they need to grow, learn and connect with others who have the same challeng-es along with offering pro-grams that save money and as importantly, time.

Gas discounts, insurance programs, and continuous learning programs (like The Chamber Learning Network) are offered. The savings alone on these programs can more than pay for your Chamber membership.

And if the Chamber can’t teach you how to make cof-fee, I bet they know someone who could. Contact your local Chamber today to find out more about training and sup-port for your business.

praise for the small Business owner… and the Chambers that serve ThemBy RoBin Poncia

Victoria, November 24, 2011 – Chambers of Commerce from across the province today welcomed the announcement that the Auditor General for Local Government will be created in British Columbia. The BC Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate the

Provincial Government for tabling this important legisla-tion.

“The legislation of this new office has the potential to fundamentally change the way municipalities in BC operate,” said John Winter, President and CEO of the BC Chamber of Commerce,

“and we applaud the BC Government for making this bold move to ensure that our municipalities are account-able and provide services in a competitive and cost effective way.”

The concept for a Local Government Auditor General office in BC was developed in

a 2010 policy paper by the BC Chamber of Commerce, which focused on creating equity in the property tax system and bringing transparency to local government. Chambers of Commerce recognize that many local governments face challenges providing services

Continued on page 10

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Government News

Get Youth Working! Youth Skills BC Workplace Pilot Program, funded through the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Agreement, offers employers a $2,000 hiring incentive (up to three employees at $2,000 each) to hire eligible youth between the ages of 15 and 29. Additionally, employers may request up to $1,000 to purchase training for the newly hired youth.

The Pilot Program will be ending March 2012, and the deadline for employer applications is December 31st. The good news is that there are still funds available! Employers need to apply now.

EMPLOYER Criteria:• In business for a minimum of one year• In good standing with WorkSafe BC• Must employ new hire for a minimum of 3 months and

30 hours/week• Employers will not qualify if employee is hired prior to

YSBC Agreement signing

NEW HIRE Criteria:• Unemployed, aged 15 – 29• Not currently receiving or eligible for EI and have not

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with limited financial means. However, many tax rates are set with little to no involvement by the public and with no effec-tive oversight.

“It is critical that the public have information through value for money audits to ensure that taxpayer interests are protected, and that elected officials at all levels are held to account. An Auditor General of Local Government would achieve these goals while respecting municipal autonomy,” continued Winter.

“We are very glad to see that the guiding principles of independence and transparency for the Auditor General office have been written into the legislation,” Winter concluded. “The Auditor General of Local Government will ensure that municipalities are accountable and employing best practices in the interest of local residents and businesses.”

Continued from page 9Public needs value


New Chamber Members

Membership has its benefits!If you are interested in connecting with the Mission Business Community, wanting to add your business voice to lobby government, or needing to find ways of improving what you do, join the Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce. Over 450 members with which to network, advocate and learn. Contact Angel Elias, Membership Coordinator, 604.826.6914

ACCOUNTING AND AUDITING FORBUSINESS AND NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS

Corporate Tax • Personal TaxFinancial Statement Preparation • Bookkeeping

Business Startup • GST • Consulting

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A.H. SENAE INC.Certifi ed General Accountant

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Hennessy Trucking, Excavating and BobcatBryce Hennessy12320 Ainsworth AveMission [email protected]

A. Stephen Pomeroy Ltd. Chartered AccountantStephen Pomeroy#200 33313 3rd AveMission [email protected]

Madrone Environmental Services LTD.Debora Soutar202 2602 Mt Lehman RoadAbbotsford [email protected]

The Giggle Dam TheatrePatrick von Pander#213 280 Nelson StreetVancouver [email protected]

Athena Leskun PhotographyAthena Leskun – Green33787 Best AveMission [email protected]

Terry GiddaMission [email protected]

Edward JonesChristopher RobertsSuite A5 32081 Lougheed HighwayMission [email protected]

Skene Holdings Ltd.Letitia Curley12828 Sabo StreetMission [email protected]

Fraser Valley Tutoring ServicesGenevieve UngerMission [email protected]

John Hakkarainen#201 3240 Mt. Lehman RoadAbbotsford BC604-855-1990

Recapture Jewellry DesignMarilyn FraserMission [email protected]

Walker Park MediaAndrea Walker32265 Best Ave.Mission [email protected]

A national study by The Schapiro Group, an Atlanta based market research firm, reveals a number of important find-ings about how consumers and business owners perceive the local chamber of commerce and the businesses that are their members. For example:

• When consumers know that a business is a member of the local chamber, they are 44% more likely to think favor-ably about it.

• Consumers who are told that a business is a chamber member are 51% more likely to be highly aware of it and 57% more likely to think positively of its local reputation.

• Consumers are 63% more likely to buy goods and ser-vices in the future from a company that they believe is a member of the local chamber of commerce. The study also has good news for businesses that sell to other businesses.

• When business decision-makers believe that a business is a chamber member, they are 37% more likely to think favorably of the business, 51% more likely to be highly aware of it, 58% more likely to think positively of its local reputation, and 59% more likely to buy goods and services from it.

Be recognized as a Chamber Member, renew your mem-bership today!

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IN-STORE CHRISTMASSPECIALS

For more information about any of these events, or to RSVP, please visit: www.missionchamber.bc.ca

MARK YOUR CALENDARUpcoming Chamber events can be found on our Mission Chamber Events Google Calendar.

Dan RobergeDan Roberge IGL Financial Corp.

Suite 201 – 3240 Mt. Lehman Rd. Abbotsford, BC V4X 2M9Ph: (604) 855-1990 / Fax: (604) 855-1090 www.bcbenefitplans.com

January 19Chamber Luncheon

Speaker: RCMP Inspector Richard KonarskiPlace: Best Western

Time: 11:30am – 1pm

January 19Business after Hours

Members OnlyMission Hospice Society

Place: Suite E 7311 James StreetTime: 5-7pm

January 28Building Community Leadership Series

Developing your Leadership PassionSpeaker: Spencer West, Me-to-We

Workshop: Me-to-WePlace: Clarke Foundation Theatre

Time: tba

February 16Chamber Luncheon

Speaker: Ryan Walters, CEO, Abbotsford HeatPlace: Best Western

Time: 11:30am – 1pm

∑∑

Documents

Chamber Connection December 2011 Edition