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BizNews
November 16, 2022
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Your weekly round up of BizNews from throughout Greater Victoria!
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Thank you to everyone who attended our Business Leaders Luncheon with BC’s Auditor General, Michael A. Pickup! Attendees had the opportunity to learn how the Office of the Auditor General of BC safeguards tax dollars, as well as how government audits affect you, your business, and your family. See event photos here.
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Ralmax light show will add sparkle to Inner Harbour
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There is something truly spectacular about seeing the lights of Victoria dancing on the waters of the Inner Harbour. That experience is about to get even more impressive as a new attraction is set to debut Dec. 2.
The displays will serve as a draw for people to go downtown, and will help more locals experience the uniqueness of our region's working harbour.
“We have something that is very special, very unique and we should certainly embrace it,” Ralmax founder Ian Maxwell told the Times Colonist.
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Lights of Wonder
And while the Inner Harbour is set to shine from the water, the Downtown Victoria Business Association is planning to add their own magic to the city. Starting Dec. 15, Lights of Wonder will transform Centennial Square into a holiday wonderland. Light exhibits and a 40-foot tree will be on display until the end of the year, providing a festive backdrop for live entertainment, food vendors and more.
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Ralmax Group of Companies: Member since 2011
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Downtown Victoria Business Association: Member since 2007
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Businesses seek certainty as inflation plateaus
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Inflation jumped to 8.1% in June — the highest it had been in decades — prompting the Bank of Canada to raise its interest rate target six times in an attempt to slow the economy.
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Rifflandia, Marathon among major grant recipients
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In April, the province announced $4.8 million for the program, which aims to boost BC's reputation as a destination for major events.
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Victoria Symphony: Member since 1984
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Victoria Jazz Society: Member since 2009
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Rifflandia Festival: Member since 2022
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Victoria Dragon Boat Festival: Member since 2020
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Victoria Marathon Society: Member since 2017
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BC not seeing fall surge in COVID hospitalizations
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Over the summer, there were concerns that the fall flu and cold season would see an increase in COVID-19 hospitalizations. So far, that has not happened.
Dr. Henry said the current situation does not warrant a formal mask mandate.
"While COVID-19 continues to circulate in communities, the situation has changed ... and the number of people at risk for serious outcomes from COVID-19 has dropped significantly," states the provincial news release. "There are many tools to get people through respiratory illness season. The most important is to maximize protection through vaccination. People are also encouraged to check daily for symptoms of respiratory illness, wash their hands regularly and practise respiratory etiquette. This includes wearing a mask if they have mild symptoms, covering coughs and disposing of tissues appropriately."
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2023 Business Awards nominations are now open!
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- The Business of the Year Award (40+ employees) honours a business that demonstrates continual business excellence through positive business growth; displays a commitment to the community; exemplifies superior customer service; and embraces an outstanding commitment to quality.
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Nominations close: January 18, 2023
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Need some inspiration?
Check out the videos of the 2022 Business of the Year (40+) finalists below. Thanks to BCLC, who is our sponsor for this award in 2023.
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Have questions about our 2023 Business Awards?
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Join us as we walk through our new online nomination and award application process and answer all kinds of questions about the 2023 Business Awards to help you put your best foot forward.
We will share tips on determining which category is the best fit for you and how to prepare a strong award application. Finalists receive almost $10,000 worth of promotional value including a professional video that tells your story to the world. Not to mention the exposure finalists receive through the awards gala.
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Tues., Nov. 29 | 12 - 1 PM
Virtual via Zoom
Call-in details provided upon registration
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Victoria voted Canada’s Top Small City
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No surprises here, but our region is once again earning praise as a great place to visit and build a life.
This time, the City of Victoria gets the credit as Best Small City in Canada, according to Resonance Consulting. The international firm ranked six categories: place, product, programming, people, prosperity and promotion to determine the top 25 small cities in Canada.
Victoria placed on top for access to post-secondary education and bike lanes (product) as well as for its restaurant scene and activities (programming). The rank is well deserved, of course, though locals know that the city couldn't do it without all of the neighbouring municipalities that make up Greater Victoria. The list did include the District of Saanich, which placed No. 23. Saanich's only real knock seems that it is lesser known then the official capital!
Hopefully being featured in lists such as this will help more people choose to join our community and contribute to our workforce and economy.
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City of Victoria: Member since 1863
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District of Saanich: Member since 2019
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Thurs., Dec. 8 | 4 - 6 PM
Strathcona Hotel, Wicket Hall
919 Douglas Street
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Chair's Holiday Reception
Come enjoy the holiday season, fill a merry motorcoach and celebrate our "last tour" with Chamber Chair John Wilson at the wheel.
This lively year-end event is our opportunity to thank our members, partners, sponsors, committee members, and board members for your dedication, engagement, and support throughout 2022.
In recognition of Wilson's Groups' commitment to community we are asking for your help to fill a Merry Motorcoach this season in support of Our Place. Donations of winter clothing, towels, and non-perishable food would be much appreciated.
We will send John off with a toast or two as he wraps up his last year as Chamber Chair. Light refreshments will be provided and a cash bar will be available.
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Chamber Chats with CEO Bruce Williams
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The State of the Island Economy - with MNP
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MNP describes the report as "an overview of the drivers and entrants to Vancouver Island’s diverse economy."
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MNP: Chamber Champion since 2020
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Staying safe with Teladoc
Stay warm and dry this November even when seeking medical advice. If you have Chambers Group Insurance, you can now take advantage of Teladoc Telemedicine Services — a fast and efficient way of getting the help you need, when you need it.
Members can receive a diagnosis, treatment recommendation and even be prescribed medicine when necessary. Members can consult a physician about non-urgent medical matters by video conference or by phone, from wherever they are, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
This cold and flu season, ensure your family is prepared for anything — without leaving the comfort of your home.
Chambers Plan offers the Teladoc Telemedicine service at no additional charge to all plan members and their dependents. With the Chambers Group Insurance plan, you can customize an employee benefits plan that meets your needs.
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Work for a Chamber Champion!
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When you’re searching for your next employer, look no further than a Chamber Champion!
Featured on The Chamber’s job board, Chamber Champions are offering great career opportunities for talented individuals across Greater Victoria.
Visit The Chamber’s job board and find new opportunities today.
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Scotiabank earns global recognition for workplaces
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Scotiabank: Member since 1913
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Scotiabank: Chamber Champion since 2020
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Accent Inns Over the Rainbow over accreditation
Accent Inns & Hotel Zed has become the first hotel chain to have all locations become Rainbow Registered by Canada’s LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce. Rainbow Registration is a national accreditation that shows a company has met a high standard to ensure LGBT+ visitors feel safe, welcomed and accepted.
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Accent Inns: Member since 1992
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Do you have a success story? We want to hear from you
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Members honoured at Food and Beverage Awards
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Fatso: Member since 2019
Cascadia Seaweed: Member since 2021
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Vancouver Island Brewing: Member since 1993
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49 Below steps up to help by donating to Our Place
49 Below Ice Cream Inc.: Member since 2022
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Our Place Society: Member since 2010
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New air-traffic-control tower at YYJ
Construction of a new air-traffic-control tower at Victoria International Airport will begin this spring. For nearly 65 years, the current airport control tower has ensured safe takeoff and landings at YYJ. Now, plans are underway for a LEED-certified upgrade with state-of-the-art equipment and surveillance. The six-storey tower is expected to be completed by 2026.
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Victoria Airport Authority: Member since 1981
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Member to Member Discounts
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BC Ferries Connector operated by the Wilson's Group
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Welcome to our Newest Members!
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Need to get one of our snazzy Chamber name tags?
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250-383-7191
victoriachamber.ca
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