profiles of excellence 2014

Premiere Edition

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

PITT MEADOWS & MAPLE RIDGE

2

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

Welcome to the inaugural edition of Profiles of Excellence, a very special publication of the Maple

Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times.

The women and men profiled in these pages come from a wide variety of backgrounds, education, experience and expertise. What they all share is what Aristotle describes in the quote above: a commitment to excellence – an attribute that is not born, but bred in training and repetition, in years of service to their profession and to their community. The awards these business leaders have earned are hallmarks of excellence, but the most important mark of excellence is the respect and loyalty of their customers.

As you will discover in these pages, Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows are communities steeped in excellence in a great many fields. We are very proud to present these Profiles of Excellence and look forward to many more editions in the years to come.

Shannon Balla, Publisher, Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times

“Excellence is an art won by training and habituation.

We do not act rightly because we have virtue or excellence, but we rather have those because we have

acted rightly. We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then,

is not an act but a habit.”- Aristotle

Download the free Layar App & scan the left hand photo pages in this magazine to discover interactive content.

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

PROFILES BECKER & COMPANY LAWYERS ..............................................5

PITT MEADOWS & MAPLE RIDGE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE .......................................................7

MAPLE RIDGE HYUNDAI ...........................................................9

CITY OF PITT MEADOWS ........................................................11

HANEY BUILDERS’ SUPPLIES ..................................................13

HOPCOTT PREMIUM MEATS .................................................15

MANION & ASSOCIATES FINANCIAL SERVICES ................17

CHANCES MAPLE RIDGE .........................................................19

THE CO-OPERATORS ...............................................................21

THE WESBROOKE .....................................................................23

MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL ......................................................25

SUNWOOD SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY ........................27

FALCON HOMES ........................................................................29

MARV JONES HONDA ..............................................................31

IMAGEWEAR ...............................................................................33

FULLER WATSON .......................................................................35

DISTRICT OF MAPLE RIDGE ..................................................37

3

Publisher Shannon Balla

Editorial Ronda Payne

Photography Andrea Walker

Production Ian Murdoch

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

5

When John Becker set up his law practice in 1981 he wanted to be part of a community, not just work

there. He chose Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows knowing it was a place he could raise a family and develop a highly skilled full-service law firm.

Terry joined the law firm in 1990 and the pair married in 1993. They are inseparable work and life partners.

Now with a team of 10 lawyers and articled students and 12 support staff, Becker & Company is that full service law firm envisaged by John years ago. John says the firm is able to meet 95 per cent of the legal needs of 100 per cent of their clients.

“We are big enough to handle your legal needs, but small enough to care about a client relationship that goes beyond the transaction.” John said. “We understand what it’s like to live and work outside of Vancouver. We can supply competent legal services on par with anywhere.”

As a local law firm, you’ll find a team approach at Becker & Company where employees take a sense of ownership while also engaging others in the firm for new approaches and points of view.

“We come to work every day and strive to do things just a little bit better,” Terry said. “We care. When you come to us, you receive all of our attention.”

With a diverse cross-section of focus areas, John has seen how his team fills out the needs of a full-service firm which with depth in each area of law.

“We have focus practice areas which means we can work as a project team,” noted John. “Each lawyer brings their experience to that team when needed. When you come in, we want you to feel comfortable and know that the people here will take the time to listen to your story. We will then give advice on how to reach the best possible outcome.”

Sometimes that best possible outcome falls outside the expertise of Becker & Company and in those cases the team will enlist the skills of other professionals.

Becker & Company also believes in mediation and other non-litigation solutions. “An outside of court resolution is always the better outcome,” John said. “We all know that court fights are expensive plus we understand the time and emotional costs of acrimonious disputes. We want to give clients a full range of resolution options.”

In addition to legal services, the firm also offers three unique specialty services: StrataNet™ – a program for strata council legal needs, Get Paid – a debt collection program and TAG – Transitional Advisory Group, to help businesses with their succession plans.

“People are really interested in these three services,” John noted. “They save costs and time, plus they inform and empower the user.”

Another form of empowerment seen at Becker & Company is that of giving back to the community.

“We encourage our team to get involved,” John noted. “They live and work here, so we have people engaged with the community through Rotary, Ridge Meadows Hospital Foundation, Alouette Addictions, the Chamber of Commerce and the Hospice Society. We contribute resources to a wide range of community activities.”

John and Terry want everyone who comes into Becker & Company to feel they are better informed when they leave and received good value for the time and money spent.

PHOTO: John Becker, lawyer

BECKER & COMPANY LAWYERS19150 LOUGHEED HWY,

PITT MEADOWSTEL: 604-465-9993

WEB: beckerlawyers.ca

“We are big enough to handle your legal needs, but small

enough to care about a client relationship that goes beyond

the transaction.”John Becker

THE LEGAL TEAM FOR LOCAL PEOPLE

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

7

Anew face joined the team of the Chamber of Commerce serving Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows in June 2014, but Executive

Director Andrea Madden is far from being a newbie to the various aspects of her role. Madden brings a wealth of experience and has already started to look for opportunities to make positive changes.

Together with the Chamber Board’s President, Terry Becker, Andrea has been sharing some big ideas with the business people of the community.

“It was a pretty extensive search to find Andrea,” Terry said. “And now that she’s here it’s obvious she’s the right fit. She has excellent experience in a member-based organization and she brings the experience, the knowledge, the passion and the belief in the Chamber.”

Having worked at the Tri-Cities Chamber, Andrea understands how each community has its own distinct nuances as well as its own makeup of different business sizes and types.

“Generally Chambers reflect the small businesses in a community, but we are all-inclusive,” Andrea noted. “We have different membership categories from non-profit to home-based to large, so any size business can join.”

One of the areas Andrea will be focusing on is ensuring the community understands the extensive range of benefits which Chambers offer members to help reduce business costs.

“With discounts on gas, point of sale, office supplies and so much more, a small business has the same advantages as a large business,” Terry said. “We are always looking for partners and providers to ensure more services are available to our members. With the cost savings, it becomes very affordable.”

These resources also include help with areas smaller businesses may struggle with, such as HR, IT or logistics.

Another important aspect Andrea is passionate about is encouraging member relations with other members.

“We find that member to member deals support local businesses and strengthen the business community,” Andrea said. “The Chamber advocates for members to do business with other Chamber members first before looking elsewhere. Likewise, we want the community to look to the Chamber business directory first.”

Fostering relationships will come with the events calendar Andrea creates to include member mixers, orientation meetings and special events. She is also looking into skills and knowledge Chamber members are looking for in order to provide valuable seminars and workshops.

Andrea’s other role is a resource hub or match-maker. Due to her diversity of connections she is able to point out other businesses, programs and resources members may not be aware of. Plus, because the Chamber is constantly working behind the scenes, members may not even know all the work she, Terry and the Chamber board are doing on their behalf.

“We do a lot of silent work,” Terry noted. “It’s engaging with government, lobbying about issues and finding answers that keeps us busy in the background while providing huge benefits to our membership.”

Andrea is quick to point out that her door is always open.

“We want to create more promotional opportunities for our members, to grow partnerships and do more together,” she said. “But I need to hear from the community to find out what’s important. I want feedback, no matter whether it’s good, neutral or bad.”

Andrea, Terry and the Chamber board are excited about creating positives throughout the community.

“When our local businesses do well, the community does well,” Andrea summarized.

PHOTO: Andrea Madden, Executive Director

CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SERVING PITT MEADOWS & MAPLE RIDGE

12492 HARRIS ROADPITT MEADOWS

TEL: 604-457-4599WEB: ridgemeadowschamber.com

“Generally Chambers reflect the small businesses in a community, but we

are all-inclusive,”Andrea Madden

HELPING YOUR BUSINESS BEHIND THE SCENES

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

9

It’s closer than you think. Everyone has heard the radio ads saying it’s worth the drive to Maple Ridge Hyundai, and owner, John Kot stresses that it

really is closer than you might think to get to the three acre dealership and it’s well worth it.

Having purchased Kelowna Hyundai in 2011, it seemed natural to John and his partner Guy Lemieux to expand to another dealership of the same brand they’d seen such positive results with.

“Hyundai has been the fastest growing auto manufacturer since 2009,” John said. “And we knew we could create the same success in Maple Ridge that we have in Kelowna when we bought the dealership in May [2014].”

The auto industry is in John and Guy’s blood. John grew up on a farm but pursued a career in the automotive industry and never looked back.

“I love cars, I love the excitement and I definitely love the Hyundai brand,” he noted.

Guy specializes in parts and service and brings over 20 years’ experience to the mix. Not to mention the more than 20 year friendship the ownership pair shares.

“We’ve been best friends for 20 years,” John said. “It’s an ideal merge of talents with my focus on customer satisfaction.”

Part of that customer satisfaction experience comes from having the right team in place. John enlisted the skills of Perry Papadogonas as General Manger of the dealership, who moved his family to Maple Ridge and loves his new home town. Perry has worked with John and Guy for more than 10 years.

“It’s a beautiful region,” John noted. “We feel incredibly fortunate to have the two beautiful cities of Maple Ridge and Kelowna as the settings for our dealerships.”

Maple Ridge Hyundai is a hands-on dealership according to John. Together with the skills of the knowledgeable sales team, every customer also meets John or Perry as part of the purchasing process.

This personal touch is surprising given the amount of volume the dealership experiences.

“We will go through about 600 new and 600 used vehicles in 2014, but it’s important to us that we develop a personal relationship with each customer,” John said.

If it seems exciting at Maple Ridge Hyundai now, John assures it will be even more so in coming years when 25 brand new vehicles (complete remodels as well as new models) will hit the market.

“It’s an exciting time and we’re the dealership to visit,” he noted. “We are quite aggressive with our pricing and even price our used cars at only 90 per cent of market value. It gives everyone a fair deal and we are transparent in our dealings with our customers.”

John also believes Hyundai vehicles are ideal for the growing B.C. market.

“These cars have a five year warrantee, great mileage, are affordable, of high quality and are efficient,” he added.

Guy and John believe in making it easy for customers to buy vehicles and to keep coming back to the dealership for service. With state-of-the-art equipment, spotless work areas and friendly staff it’s easy to see how customers would feel welcome at Maple Ridge Hyundai.

“Our team is focused on fixing cars right the first time,” John said. “Whether it’s the sales staff, service or management, we all have a common goal – to keep our customers happy.”

PHOTO: Perry Papadogonas , General Manager and John Kot, Owner

MAPLE RIDGE HYUNDAI23213 LOUGHEED HWY,

MAPLE RIDGETEL: 604-467-3401

WEB: mapleridgehyundai.com

“Whether it’s the sales staff, service or management, we all have a common goal – to keep

our customers happy.”John Kot

GREATER VOLUME AND CUSTOMER FOCUS MAKE FOR THE BEST EXPERIENCE

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

11

There is nowhere like Pitt Meadows when it comes to the perfect balance of opportunity and lifestyle. This growing, but tight-

knit community is an un-paralleled setting for residents and businesses alike.

Like the community itself, Pitt Meadows City Hall is a welcoming environment for business opportunities. Businesses that recognize the advantages available in the City will find one of the most knowledgeable, efficient and supportive teams to bring plans into action. From Mayor Deb Walters to each staff member, driving business success is a key priority.

“We want businesses that choose Pitt Meadows to succeed,” said Deb. “What is rewarding for us is hearing that our staff make it easy to do business here.”

Ideally located with access to major transportation routes and modalities, Pitt Meadows is on the cusp of unprecedented growth and is a community that has developed the ideal balance of work, play and relaxation.

“So many people have to balance travel with business and family and it’s easy here,” Deb noted. “We are centrally located with easy access to the Golden Ears Bridge, two international airports, three U.S. border crossings, the South Perimeter Road to Delta Ports and southern communities, plus we also have our own regional airport and a CP intermodal yard” said Deb.

It’s more than transportation and access that make for a great place to establish a thriving business, it’s also accessibility of resources.

“With an affordable land-base we are fortunate to be able to offer the space a growing business needs,” Deb noted. “The value is incredible for investors, new businesses, those expanding and those looking to relocate. The return on investment is excellent.”

Not sure where to start? Contact the Economic Development Corporation. This

team can rally staff from all departments within the City. By creating a single meeting with multiple minds, time is saved and ideas are taken from concept to plan.

“We are always open to looking at things differently to help facilitate the best outcome for our community and our businesses. “ Deb noted. “It isn’t just about today. We want to make sure things are going well from the first pre-development discussion to the ribbon cutting to celebrating the 20th anniversary.

Pitt Meadows has grown and developed dramatically over the past decade with the addition of advanced transportation options, programs with neighbouring communities, involvement with post-secondary institutions and dedication to business growth within the existing community fabric.

It’s a draw for families, creating an educated, highly-skilled work force for businesses to access due to affordable living in a recreational setting. From small retail boutiques to large industrial organizations, the expertise, land and support are here, positioning Pitt Meadows as a dynamic, innovative city to do business with.

“Ultimately, we want to attract and keep businesses here and we want to make it a positive and rewarding experience,” summarized Deb.

Together with neighbouring communities, Pitt Meadows ensures businesses have even greater opportunities to grow throughout the North Fraser.

“We value our partnerships with Maple Ridge and Mission and work with the Province collectively on joint initiatives like transportation,” Deb noted. “Another partner we respect, value and collaborate with is The Katzie First Nations who bring invaluable culture and heritage.”

If you’re looking for a dynamic setting with work, play and balance, look to Pitt Meadows and take advantage of the resources ready for your ideas.

PHOTO: City of Pitt Meadows team

CITY OF PITT MEADOWS12007 HARRIS ROAD


WEB: pittmeadows.bc.ca

““The value is incredible for investors, new businesses, those expanding and those

looking to relocate.”Mayor Deb Walters

WORKING TOGETHER FOR YOUR BEST BUSINESS FUTURE

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

13

Chances are, you’ve been to Haney Builders Supplies a time or two, but unless you’re in the construction trade, you may not

know all they have to offer. Store Manager Alex Yakovyshenko understands that for home owners, the complete range of options hasn’t been obvious until recently.

There is a new finishing department at the east side of the Haney Builders Supplies parking lot and while the doors, windows and cabinets featured there were all available before, now they are showcased by dedicated staff able to help homeowners and contractors.

“It’s the right atmosphere now,” Alex said. “People can come in, sit down and spend time reviewing their needs with staff members who have expertise in finishing. It’s a more relaxed space for questions and discussion.”

The new building mimics the main building with wooden beams, but also features a Fusion Stone exterior, another product available through Haney Builders Supplies, according to Controller, Karl Peters.

The wide range of offerings even includes retractable eclipse doors – the accordion style glass doors popular for opening up a home to the outdoors, which can be seen in action in the new finishing department. Hertco cabinets, a pre-built box type of cabinetry, are also featured in the new site with the design software to bring your vision to life.

“It’s an attractive looking site,” Karl said. “We’ve had Milgard and Jeld-Wen door and window products, but now they are in a specialized space. It’s the biggest showroom for these types of products in the area. We have the ability to help homeowners and contractors from the ground up.”

Opened in 1938, Haney Builders Supplies has had the same family ownership since the early 1970s. Maple Ridge resident, Tom Stinson, took the business on after his dad

Bob retired, but the commitment remained the same: to ensure a diverse selection of quality products for home building, repair and maintenance were available locally and affordably.

While contractors are familiar with the lumber yard in the middle of downtown Maple Ridge, Alex and Karl invite local homeowners out to ask questions and get the help they need.

“We’re proud to have a lot of expertise on our team,” Alex noted. “No matter what the project is, we can help you. From trying to figure out how to build a cedar planter for the deck to ripping out and building a brand new deck, we’re always available to chat and help you choose the best options for your needs.”

Haney Builders Supplies also carried a wide range of landscaping supplies in addition to building, finishing and maintenance products. With stones, pavers and bulk materials like sand, soil and gravel, your indoor and outdoor needs can be met in one trip.

Even if you don’t want to do it yourself, there is help available. From handymen to house builders, ask for a few recommendations of those in the construction industry who regularly visit Haney Builders Supplies.

As part of the community for more than 75 years, the staff take great pride in supporting local activities.

“It’s our mandate to support anything with kids and the hospital is supported annually by our golf tournament,” Alex noted. “We also help create playgrounds for kids in third world countries, it’s a great compliment to the things we do locally.”

PHOTO: Karl Peters, Controller and Alex Yakovyshenko, Store Manager

HANEY BUILDERS SUPPLIES22740 DEWDNEY TRUNK ROAD,


WEB: haneybuilders.com

“No matter what the project is,

we can help you.” Alex Yakovyshenko

YOUR SINGLE SOURCE FOR BUILDING MATERIALS AND EXPERTISE

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

15

Although it may be seen as the latest “in” thing to do, the Hopcott family didn’t just jump on the local food trend recently.

Theirs is a passion for quality, healthy food that began in the 1930s. That passion had grown to become Hopcott Premium Meats and Hopcott’s Meadows Maze – both part of Hopcott Farms.

With the meat shop and the maze, education about farming and food choices plays an important role. Kids learn through a variety of activities at the maze, while adults embrace information while they make choices and ask questions at Hopcott Premium Meats.

“We want people to understand the benefits of locally grown food,” said Jenn Hopcott-Foxley, the meat shop’s Operations Manager. “Not only does local food taste better, but it also supports our local economy, is better for the animals and allows people to get to know who grows their food and how.”

Growing food is a big part of Hopcott Farms. It’s more than the corn grown in the maze. Additional crops include five different types of berries, Brussel sprouts and cauliflower. On the protein side, the Hopcott specialty is beef.

“We rear between 600 and 700 head of cattle for beef,” Jenn said. “It’s what we specialize in. Because it’s from our farm, we are in charge of every aspect of it. We don’t use any hormones, steroids or antibiotics.”

All Hopcott beef is dry-aged for 28 days which naturally creates a more tender, tasty meat.

Another benefit of offering their own beef is that food safety standards are strictly monitored, controlled and adhered to. The smaller volumes of animals give greater control over grading.

“Our butchers are professionally trained and deal with the whole animal, so if you’re looking for a custom cut of beef or something we don’t have in the case, just ask,” Jenn added.

In addition to beef, the shop on Old Dewdney Trunk Road also sells a full range of unique, B.C.-made food products perfect for anyone seeking out local, healthy choices from meat to sauces, produce to breads.

“We also sell chicken, pork and lamb, all reared in the Fraser Valley,” Jenn noted. “The less travelled the animals are, the less stress there is on them and that makes for better tasting meat. It also allows us to support other local farmers.”

Meadows Maze is open from August to October each year and like Hopcott Premium Meats, is run by the family. At 17 acres, people do get lost in the maze which is created by using a GPS.

“We often get phone calls from inside of the maze from people saying they are lost,” Jenn said.

The activities at Meadows Maze include the large, 17 acre maze, a medium maze, a small kids’ maze, wagon rides, a petting farm, pig races, a barrel train and much more. The Hopcotts continue to add fun and engaging activities for families each year.

“It isn’t just for little kids,” Jenn noted. “We have teens come out in the evenings as well.”

From Hopcott Premium Meats to Meadows Maze, the Hopcott Family of Hopcott Farms wants to be one of your local food sources and ensure that you have the opportunity to learn about your food from the farmers who grow it.

PHOTO: From left to right, Brad Hopcott – Cattle Farmer, Hopcott Farms and Manager, Meadows Maze. Bob Hopcott – Owner and Farmer, Hopcott Farms. Jenn Hopcott-Foxley – Operations Manager, Hopcott Meats.

HOPCOTT PREMIUM MEATS18385 OLD DEWDNEY TRUNK RD,


WEB: hopcottmeats.ca

“We want people to understand the benefits of locally grown food.”Jenn Hopcott-Foxley

KNOW YOUR FARMER, KNOW YOUR FOOD

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

17

At Manion and Associates, the focus never changes: reducing your financial stress and increasing financial well-being is

the first, last and only thing that matters.

This steadfast goal ensures you get the service and results needed whenever you call on this dedicated group of financial professionals; whether your needs include retirement planning, estate and tax planning, cash management or investment and insurance planning.

Tom Manion started in financial planning 19 years ago and continues to meet long time clients but also has Allen LaRose and Kristian Manion to take charge in their fields of expertise.

Allen is all about the numbers: Tax Planning, Retirement Planning and Portfolio Management as well as calculating Cash Flow and Net Worth. Despite the complexity, Allen believes in simplicity as the best course of action.

Kristian helps individuals and small businesses with insurance needs. He educates clients on topics like skipping mortgage creditor insurance in favour of life insurance or helping small businesses choose the right benefits package to attract great employees.

“I love helping people, all of us do and we’ve been doing it for many years,” Tom noted. “The consistency of working with us ensures clients know who they are dealing with and can build real relationships and friendships. It’s about delivering the best possible experience.”

Other firms make the same claim, but what allows Manion and Associates to deliver on this promise is that they are an independent organization.

“It’s the client that determines what we do and what products fit,” Tom said. “We don’t have some head office back east telling us what to sell. We have complete flexibility in doing what’s best for our clients.”

For example, Allen is not a fan of self-directed accounts. Specifically, he’s not a fan of the annual account fee, “they really should rename them, ‘The Lazy Advisor Fee’,” Allen said in the no-nonsense style that Tom takes great pride in.

Kristian rarely sells whole life, preferring lower cost term insurance. Too often he sees people stuck with expensive products when a lower-cost policy would better meet their needs.

Choosing the right products comes easily to Tom, Allen and Kristian with their experience and education – they have seven different combined financial designations. Plus, finance changes on a daily basis, so the team is constantly upgrading education, participating in regulatory discussions and attending conferences where they can enhance their knowledge. This is particularly important with complex areas like the recent changes impacting estate planning.

When it comes to what’s important, obviously their clients come first, but the community where they do business is a close second.

“Allen is on the board of the Ridge Meadows Hospice Society as well as Saint John Ambulance, Kristian dedicates a lot of time to various seniors’ projects and has been a Hospice volunteer and I sit on the board of Allouette Addiction Services,” Tom summarized, adding the sponsorship of the Ridge Meadows Home Show and many years of the Headshave supporting both the Ridge Meadows Hospital Foundation and Ridge Meadows Hospice Society.

The community has noticed the commitment of Manion and Associates. The firm has been voted “Best of the Best” for financial planning services in the Times readers’ choice awards 11 years in a row.

“I haven’t worked a day in the last 19 years. I just sit in a chair and talk to people,” said Tom. “It’s what I love to do.”

PHOTO: Tom Manion, CFP, CHS, EPC President, Allen LaRose, FMA, CIM, FCSI Senior Associate, Kristian Manion, CHS Senior Associate

MANION & ASSOCIATES FINANCIAL SERVICES

UNIT #2 - 22374 LOUGHEED HWY, MAPLE RIDGE

TEL: 604-463-6060WEB: manion.ca

“The consistency of working with the same people ensures clients know who they are

dealing with and can build real relationships and friendships with us.”

Tom Manion

A TEAM DEDICATED TO YOUR FINANCIAL BEST

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

19

One of the brightest new spots on Lougheed Highway is the Chances Maple Ridge Community Gaming Centre.

What began as a bingo hall on 224th in the downtown core has grown to become a complete gaming and entertainment facility ideal for a fun evening out.

When Great Canadian Gaming Corporation bought the fledgling bingo hall and worked with the District of Maple Ridge to incorporate slot machines into the mix, the community’s interest in new opportunities for fun became apparent, according to Andy LaCroix, General Manager at Chances Maple Ridge.

“We helped change the complexion of the core of the downtown with this new building,” Andy noted. “We took a piece of unused and unusable land and built a 27,500 square foot center for entertainment.”

Even pushing 227th Street through to Lougheed from the Haney Bypass was a benefit to the community and part of the project’s success.

“It’s great to see this first rate facility stabilize bingo in the city, open up the downtown core, and create more vitality,” Andy said. “We knew this was a place to plant roots and that the community would join us.

“The $14 million building project also added to employment in the community increasing job opportunities within Maple Ridge.

“I am so proud of our employees as they go above and beyond every single day in order to ensure Chances Maple Ridge is a great place to be. We have many long term employees and some of them have celebrated 25 years with us.

Part of what makes employees proud to be with Chances Maple Ridge is the commitment to the community. From the Rotary’s activities and the Ridge Meadows

Hospital Foundation, to the BCSPCA and The ACT, there are numerous organizations Chances supports.

In fact, when Aaron Pritchett played at the opening of Chances Maple Ridge, he wanted any funds raised to assist children’s programs in the community, so a special donation was made to KidSport.

With 173 slot machines, two e-tables, 200 bingo seats (152 electronic), The Well – a full-service licensed restaurant – and live entertainment, Chances has quickly become a local destination.

“We try to cater to the local market,” Andy said. “You’re going to see your neighbors here; you’re going to see your friends here. You can be among friends and enjoy the evening.”

The focus is on creating a safe, friendly, and enjoyable environment locally. With big acts like Pritchett to local up-and-coming performers, Chances is also a platform for entertainers to gain valuable stage experience.

Community groups are invited to use the board room at no charge for meetings and functions and can make use of The Well if food service is needed. The 60 seat flex space located next to the 82 seat restaurant can also be booked for private functions like birthday parties, holiday events or corporate functions. Even charity fundraisers like burger-and-beer nights can be arranged.

“We think we are an invaluable addition to the Maple Ridge marketplace and hope we live up to everyone’s expectations,” Andy noted. “We’ve really tried to engage and connect with the community and to date everyone has responded positively. I hope the citizens of Maple Ridge are very proud of, and happy with, Chances Maple Ridge.”

PHOTO: Andy LaCroix, General Manager, Chances Maple Ridge

CHANCES MAPLE RIDGE22710 LOUGHEED HIGHWAY,


WEB: chancesmapleridge.com

“You’re going to see your neighbours here, you’re going

to see your friends here. You can be among friends and enjoy the evening.”

Andy LaCroix

ENTERTAINMENT FOR A GROWING COMMUNITY

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

21

The next time you’re running errands, notice the insurance brokers in town. What makes one better than another? Is there

a difference? Or is buying insurance like buying gas and you get it where it’s most convenient?

It’s time to look to The Co-operators. They make purchasing insurance a personal and unique experience.

Clint Callison, Owner/Operator of The Co-operators at Lougheed and 207th St. and Karen Duffield, Owner/Operator of The Co-operators at 230th St. and Dewdney Trunk Road, have seen the difference between buying insurance “anywhere” and buying The Co-operators way. Their customers see the difference too.

“We’re interested in making sure you have the right coverage at the right price, for the right reasons,” Clint said. “It’s more than a transaction. We establish relationships with our customers to last a lifetime. As owners, we are unique in that we work in our offices to ensure the highest levels of customer satisfaction.”

Karen and Clint have both been in the industry for many years but made the decision to be Co-operators owners because the company does things differently, and Clint and Karen think, better.

“We put people first,” Karen said. “When I got to know the company I could see Co-operators values aligned with my own.”

A wide range of things set The Co-operators apart:

1. A peer panel to provide binding arbitration on disputed claims (the only such panel in the industry)

2. Co-operators advisors exclusively sell from the vast line up of Co-operators insurance products for a better overall process

3. Claims are managed in-house by The Co-operators – the same people you see for your policies are going to support you if a claim happens and you need honest, accurate, caring advice

4. No matter where your “home” Co-operators office is, if you need to renew a policy you can take care of it at any Canadian Co-operators office

5. Full client insurance reviews every two to three years.

“While we look at your overall portfolio every two or three years,” Clint said. “We also look at policies every year to make sure you are properly covered, not over covered and aren’t paying for something you don’t need.”

“We represent the client,” Karen added. “So it goes beyond a discussion of coverage. It may also include claims advice.”

Both Clint and Karen point out that The Co-operators is run in a way that puts people and their needs first. It’s a difference worth experiencing.

“We believe in being honest, open and caring for others,” Clint said. “Ours is a company run with honest and ethical values.”

Community involvement is an important aspect of those values and is illustrated through the company-wide Buckle up Bear program for proper inspection and installation of car seats and the contribution of approximately five per cent of pre-tax profits to become an Imagine Canada Caring Company. On a local stage, Clint and Karen sponsor Haney Horse and Hound 4H, local baseball teams, Cythera House and a number of other community-oriented organizations.

“This is why we do what we do,” Clint said. “People are important to us. Each staff member is licensed, accredited and may carry degrees of specialization, but what really counts is how we treat people and how we take care of their insurance needs.”

“We are here to help you protect everything that is important to you,” summarized Karen.

“It’s more than a transaction. We establish relationships with our customers to last a lifetime.”

Clint Callison

MAKING INSURANCE PERSONAL

PHOTO: Clint Callison, Owner/Operator of The Co-operators at Lougheed & 207th St. and Karen Duffield, Owner/Operator of The Co-operators at 230th St. & Dewdney Trunk Road

CLINT CALLISON, OWNER/OPERATORTHE CO-OPERATORSLOUGHEED & 207TH.

MAPLE RIDGETEL: 604- 460-3650

KAREN DUFFIELD, OWNER/OPERATORTHE CO-OPERATORS

230TH ST & DEWDNEY TRUNK RD.MAPLE RIDGE

TEL: 604 463 4535 WEB: cooperators.ca

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

23

Moving into a retirement community is a big decision, and one that Pat De Luca and his wife Celeste understand

well. The De Luca’s are owners and operators of Pitt Meadows’ The Wesbrooke Seniors Living Community. With more than 50 years in the field of making seniors comfortable in a new home, the team at Wesbrooke know that the move is a lifestyle change.

“It’s a change in attitude from living in the family home and taking care of everyone and everything,” Pat said. “Our residents begin to learn that this is their time to have fun, enjoy life and let someone else take care of the mundane needs.”

Housekeeping, meals and utilities are included in the rental for each unique, independent suite of the family-oriented residences. And while the suites are comfortable and can be decorated and furnished with what residents love – whether it’s a Junior Studio or a two bedroom unit – the De Luca’s know the biggest benefit of living in a community like Wesbrooke is making new friends and finding things to share.

“Our staff encourage residents to be active participants in their community and we continually encourage their involvement and contributions,” Pat noted. “The most important thing at Wesbrooke is the residents.”

Sharing and connecting often occurs over morning and afternoon tea, at happy hour or while engaging in one of the many activities offered each day. A garden-loving resident created beautiful hanging baskets for the courtyard, another resident brought his tools to create a wood-working shop where he builds decorations for special events and another began an informal knitting group by simply enjoying her pastime in the common area.

Activities like community entertainers, movie nights, crafts, shopping trips and church services are available on a regular basis. Recreational activities are just steps

away with the Pitt Meadows Rec Centre attached to the residences and even a hair salon is located on site.

“We want our residents to have time to focus on their own activities,” Celeste added. “With us taking care of things like meal preparation and housekeeping, they have new options.”

Two red seal chefs with years of experience create a varied menu that is delicious as well as balanced and healthy. Plus, different dietary needs can be accommodated into the diverse options.

Having meals prepared doesn’t mean residents give up what they love about cooking at entertaining. There are full kitchens in many suites and large entertaining areas for private get-togethers.

“We do a tremendous job with special occasions,” Pat said. “Not only with the meals, and inviting family members in to join us, but also with the spirit of fun around special events. We encourage families to visit anytime and share in a meal or activity.”

Personal safety pendants ensure every resident has immediate access to help, no matter where they are in the community. Additional assistance is available for morning routines, medication reminders and escorts to meals, plus a certified nurse is on staff along with registered care aids.

“Choice, dignity, privacy and independence are important to our residents, so those things are important to us,” Celeste noted.

For those needing slightly more care and attention, the third floor of the Wesbrook, is devoted to assisted living suites and lounge areas.

Stunning, comfortable suites, on-site care and a community makes the Wesbrooke the ideal seniors living community.

THE WESBROOKE SENIORS LIVING COMMUNITY

12000, 190A STREET, PITT MEADOWS

TEL: 604-460-7006WEB: thewesbrooke.com

“Choice, dignity, privacy and independence are important

to our residents, so those things are important to us.”

Celeste De Luca

CONVENIENT, INDEPENDENT LIVING YOU CAN CALL HOME

PHOTO: Pat and Celeste De Luca, owners and operators of The Wesbrooke Seniors Living Community in Pitt Meadows

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

25

At Meadowridge School, the mission, “Learning to live well, with others and for others, in a just community,” is no catch

phrase. This is a mantra everyone in the school knows, and strives to live by on a daily basis according to Hugh Burke, the school’s Headmaster.

“If I say that phrase to most people in the school, they will finish it for me,” Mr. Burke said.

More than a source of a traditional education, Meadowridge – an independent International Baccalaureate (IB) World school – focuses on developing balances, well-rounded individuals.

“There is no golden individual future,” Mr. Burke noted. “The way we learn to interact with others is to strive and learn together. This is how we will be successful. There is no independent win without togetherness.”

Meadowridge is a Canadian Independent Accredited School and runs from Junior Kindergarten through to Grade 12. As an accredited IB Continuum school, Meadowridge offers the IB programme at all grade levels: Primary Years (Junior Kindergarten to Grade 5), Middle Years (Grades 6 to 10), and the highly regarded Diploma Programme (Grades 11 and 12).

The standards required by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) go beyond provincial or Canadian school standards. They position Meadowridge students on a world stage with the Diploma Programme exams graded internationally.

For the past 14 years, 100 per cent of Meadowridge graduates have been accepted to post-secondary school.

“We are one of about 180 schools in the world to offer all three levels of the IB,” Mr. Burke stated. “We continue to hold ourselves to the highest Canadian and International standards and we are constantly inspected and certified. In fact we are globally certified by three agencies.”

The students of Meadowridge are active, balanced, and confident children who achieve at a very high level, according to Mr. Burke. The school has a ratio of one teacher to every 10 students to ensure quality interaction is always available.

“The way in which children go through school has an enormous impact on who they become,” said Mr. Burke. “As well as an enormous impact on how they experience childhood.”

While teachers do assessments of each child’s learning, the children also complete a self-assessment on the 10 central traits of the IB Learner Profile which encourages students to be caring, balanced, reflective, thinkers, inquirers and more.

“Rather than teach them answers, we teach the students to ask questions and then answer them,’ Mr. Burke stated. “We are about developing people, not about memorizing things.”

The Meadowridge curriculum exceeds the confines of a teaxt book. Students are encouraged to develop and explore strengths in the arts, debate, outdoor education, physical education and more, as well as over 70 highly-participated co-curriculars and athletic teams. The school has also recently obtained neighboring land to expand the 27 acre campus to include more on-site learning, development, environmental education and recreational activities.

As Mr. Burke explained, it’s about more than just grades or doing better in school.

“Parents may send their children to Meadowridge for better grades or more focus, but they will keep them here because they see their child excel in so many areas,” he noted. “When parents want a school to participate with them in the creation of a well-rounded child who is confident and happy at school, they are best to find a school that aligns with their desire.”

MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL12224 240 ST, MAPLE RIDGE

TEL: 604-467-4444WEB: meadowridge.bc.ca

“The way in which children go through school has an enormous impact on who they become.”

Hugh Burke

A WORLD EDUCATION MAKES A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE

PHOTO: Students at Meadowridge School

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

27

Home is a place where you feel comfortable, relaxed and welcome, but fun is a necessary part of the equation to create

a happy, healthy lifestyle. Built less than five years ago, Sunwood Retirement Community is the newest retirement home in Maple Ridge and Megan Parker, General Manager of Sunwood says, “We’re a bit different than other retirement homes.”

She explains that the staff refers to Sunwood as, “a hotel for seniors,” because of the fun yet relaxed feeling.

“It’s about freedom,” Megan said. “There aren’t a bunch of rules like at some retirement homes. There’s fun everywhere you look.”

In addition to the open, shared spaces, warm colours and inviting atmosphere, residents will find activities like bus trips, bingo, happy hour, weekly entertainment and poker. Plus, because of the recent conversion of ownership to Regal Retirement Lifestyle Communities, Sunwood now has the advantages of being part of an organization with 21 retirement homes.

“With Regal, we are able to provide more services and options to our residents,” noted Megan. “It’s a young and growing company and that dynamic is present in all we do.”

Meals are made fresh on site by the in-house chef and alternate offerings are available. While residents are encouraged to enjoy their meals in the large open dining room, sometimes a quiet meal is preferred and can be taken back to suites, or be delivered up to five times a month.

Independence doesn’t mean doing it alone. That’s why Sunwood has the assistance of local company, Independence Matters Support Services. The team of qualified care-givers are available for residents, or their families, to hire for a wide range of personal care needs.

“The team at Independence Matters allows our residents to stay independent because help is available when needed,” Megan noted. “They assist with things like medication reminders, shopping trips, even support with coming down to dinner or getting ready in the morning.”

Regardless of the amenities and great care, loved ones are only going to be happy if they enjoy their suite and feel at home. High ceilings, abundant windows, views of green spaces and neutral colours make each suite inviting and upbeat.

Every one of the 93 suites is wheelchair accessible with extra-wide bathrooms complete with walk-in showers. Many suites offer a cooktop and some even have a full stove for those wanting to prepare a few of their own meals.

Studio, one bedroom and deluxe one bedroom suites are available for rent with continental breakfast, lunch and dinner included in the fees along with morning and afternoon refreshments. Also included are weekly housekeeping and linen service, heat, hot water and hydro, as well as 24 hour emergency response call systems.

“Our secure facility also ensures staff are available at all times for residents or family members,” said Megan.

If entertaining is the passion of a resident, there is ample opportunity to invite visitors with a guest rental suite, party rooms and even courtyards and patios as perfect places to entertain and get together.

“We organize many social activities to ensure active, happy lifestyles,” Megan noted. “Plus we are centrally located and are across from the Ridge Meadows Seniors Centre.”

Making the move to a retirement home can be delightful when all the features, amenities and comforts are in place.

SUNWOOD SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITY

12241 224 ST, MAPLE RIDGE

TEL: 604-463-5527WEB: sunwoodliving.com

SECURE LIVING AT SUNWOOD

PHOTO: Megan Parker, General Manager, with Iris Hoare

“There aren’t a bunch of rules like at some retirement homes.

There’s fun everywhere you look”

Megan Parker

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

29

Falcon Homes, a residential-focused developer, is no newcomer to Maple Ridge. With a diverse range of projects already in the

community, the latest addition, Reflections on the River, will appeal to those looking for a quality apartment style home in a historic, riverside neighbourhood.

Projects already completed by Falcon Homes include the prestigious River Road Estates and Falcon Bluff. The newest projects currently underway include: Signature at Falcon Centre, Falcon Homes at Wynnridge and the recently sold out Falcon Hill Townhomes.

Those who have seen the firm’s construction recognize the quality inherent in every Falcon Home project. Owner, Fred Formosa, knows that dependable quality must blend seamlessly with exceptional design and desirable features to create a home for now and the future.

“We work with tradespeople who understand the quality we demand in our projects,” Fred said. “Many of them have been with us for more than 20 years. They know what we expect and they know what our customers expect. It’s quality.”

A desirable home isn’t just about the construction, it’s also about the neighbourhood.

“We select our sites carefully,” noted Fred. “Signature at Falcon Centre is ideal for those who want access to shopping and amenities without depending on a car.”

Some of the units for sale at Falcon Centre are move-in ready, similar to the fully-detached family homes at Wynnridge where houses are in various stages of development allowing those interested to determine their needs and timing.

Having been in the business of creating diverse, quality homes with fine details, it was a natural fit for Falcon Homes to create Reflections on the River in Port Haney.

Being constructed next door to the Billy Miner Pub, Reflections will be a four story, wood frame building with 40 individual units from 450 to 1,400 square feet.

Reflections is expected to be ready for move-in during the summer of 2015. The presentation centre is just across River Road on the wharf and provides full details of the project to ensure future owners know everything about their new home.

“Every single home will have a deck,” Fred said about the project. “And the location is ideal for those who work in Vancouver because it is just steps to the Westcoast Express. It’s the best of both worlds.”

Large bedrooms, high ceilings, open living areas and vast windows ensure each home at Reflections on the River will feel spacious, regardless of the square footage. There are three choices of colour schemes, stainless steel appliances, modern tile and quartz counter tops included as standard options, but if a homeowner would like to upgrade certain aspects of their home, they have that ability.

“We build beautiful homes and some of our customers want to customize them,” Fred said. “Things like built in cabinets in the living areas, changes to flooring in the bedrooms or different finishes can be included.”

Reflections on the River has a modern, comfortable feel that maximizes natural light and views while still providing plenty of function and storage. Starting at the low $200,000s, it’s surprising to see the list of features offered. Plus, every home built by Falcon Homes has the added security of a 2 / 5 and 10 year warrantee.

See what living on the river would be like at the show suite for Reflections on the River.

FALCON HOMESWEB: falconhomes.com

““The location is ideal for those who work in Vancouver because it is just steps to the

Westcoast Express.”Fred Formosa

QUALITY HOMES WITH EXCEPTIONAL FEATURES

PHOTO: Fred Formosa, Owner of Falcon Homes

OPEN DAILY

12-5PM

CALL: 604-467-0692

FOR DETAILS

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

31

The shiny vehicles and beautiful showroom of Marv Jones Honda belie the age of this long-standing business. Having celebrated 40

years in Maple Ridge in 2013, the family owned and operated dealership is all about community.

Ryan Jones, General Manager, took over the business from his dad in a natural progression.

“I was able to witness my dad’s success throughout his career,” Ryan said. “I’d attend the dinners and events that he would be at in the community, but I also remember being a kid in the showroom, sitting in the front seat of the cars making car noises.”

When Ryan began running the dealership 1½ years ago, he was sure to maintain the same beliefs and philosophy he’d grown up with.

“You have to sleep, eat and play where the business is in order to grow roots in the community,” he said.

And the community has responded positively. While Honda is already a brand synonymous with quality and value, Marv Jones Honda has consistently ranked in the top 10 per cent of all Honda dealerships in Canada in terms of customer retention and customer satisfaction.

“Many people think we make the most money when we sell a car, but that’s not the case,” Ryan said. “We make money by ensuring our customers keep coming back, which is ideal because keeping customers happy and doing business the right way aligns perfectly with our family’s values. It’s how we do business.”

Another important aspect of the business is supporting various community activities.

“We are very involved with the Lions of Maple Ridge,” Ryan noted and added that there is also support of Rotary activities, a range of sports teams and community events.

This is part and parcel of what the 41 staff see as their number one goal – ensuring the customer is engaged and satisfied.

“Our goal is to develop a relationship over that customer’s lifetime,” Ryan said. “We go above and beyond to wow the customer and exceed their expectations. That goes for service and repairs as well. We beat the pricing of many other shops, plus because we’re trained by Honda, we do the job faster.”

It’s easy for staff to go above and beyond in an environment where they can take pride in coming to work, knowing what their focus is and how to achieve it.

“Having a sense of camaraderie is important,” commented Ryan. “Happy employees are going to carry that atmosphere to the customers.”

It doesn’t matter whether that customer is shopping for a new car or a “new to them” car. The team at Marv Jones recognizes a vehicle purchase is important no matter the year, make or model.

“We give customers the same experience no matter what vehicle they are purchasing,” Ryan said. “We are honoured they’ve chosen us.”

From the sales floor to the service bays, all Marv Jones Honda employees are trained in car features, customer care and the specifics required to do the best possible job.

“We make ourselves accessible to our customers and we want them to know that we’re here for them,” noted Ryan. “Whether they just call or drop in with a question or they come to one of our owner clinics, we want to build a relationship with them to ensure we meet their needs.”

MARV JONES HONDA20611 LOUGHEED HWY,


WEB: marvjoneshonda.ca

“We go above and beyond to wow the customer and exceed

their expectations.”Ryan Jones

A PASSION FOR CARS IS A PASSION FOR PEOPLE

PHOTO: Ryan Jones, General Manager

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

33

The Imagewear team is excited about their new digs because they know how important branding and image are for a company’s

success. Diego Medina and Jeremy Bekar understand companies must stand out, as local competition gets more intense, if they are to remain successful.

“We already have great programs for our clients,” Diego said. “But with the new location we’ll be creating a wider range of opportunities for entrepreneurs, to brand their businesses, allowing our clients even greater value while helping them grow with us.”

It is very easy for firms to get bogged down in the day to day operations of their business. This creates a situation where marketing and PR get left without the resources needed to ensure the company’s funnel of new business is full. Many companies lack the expertise needed to create effective marketing and branding programs. This is where Diego and Jeremy lend a hand.

Diego’s experience working in Ecuador, the US and throughout Canada gives him tremendous insight into how companies should brand themselves, in order to maximize the quality of the clients they bring in.

Jeremy Bekar’s background working with fortune 500 companies, through his marketing firm in New York, has taught him how to generate the most effective business image for the least amount of money. “Retiring to the lower mainland has been wonderful.” Bekar beamed. “Although, I cannot give up working so I get my fix helping local companies with their business plans, marketing, and PR programs. I just don’t get paid anymore.”

The team of Medina and Bekar consult with firms discovering how best to create buzz and to improve the image of each company all for free. The image team designs programs at the best possible price maximizing advertising spend. Many are amazed to see how inexpensive PR and branding actually are.

“I love the wide spectrum of companies within BC.” Diego states “You can work with a high level software firm, who needs a marketing program for a conference in San Francisco, one week and Kiewit Construction, who is building a bridge, the next.”

The initial step for any firm is presentation. If your employees do not present a professional appearance, what will your customers think of the quality of your work? Through Diego’s partnership with Imagewear, he has access to sales and operations uniform programs in brands anywhere within the spectrum from Calvin Klein, Nike, Callaway, and Roots to work clothes like Carhartt, Dakota, Blaklader and Cat. The buying power of Imagewear obtains any brand at the lowest possible price, guaranteed.

Diego’s insights always help his clients save money. “Did you know any item with your company logo on it is a tax write off?” says, Diego through a sly smile. “It seems simple enough but many marketers forget to tell their clients this.” He continued “The deals we secure in the Imagewear program usually end up covering the cost of branding such as embroidery, screen printing, engraving or laser etching. Why let your marketing firm charge you extra?”

This, however, is just the beginning. Once firms look like they deserve their clients business, the next step is fairly simple, marketing and advertising. After consulting with a client, Diego and Jeremy retreat to the new display centre to brain storm the most cost effective marketing options. Does your firm plan to utilize conference booths, corporate gifts for giveaways, direct mailer packages or do you simply want to create an online presence?

“Any marketing executive can present the basics. The good ones find a way to do it for less so you can use the extra money to grow your business.” states, Jeremy . “ That is the difference between a successful company and the other guys who just get by!”

Diego has programs for all sizes of companies. If you have an operations team, which needs uniforms, he can set up discount voucher programs, which work across Canada, ensuring your employees present themselves professionally while generating a homogenous brand image no matter where they work. Even in remote locations your firm saves money because Imagewear offers free shipping anywhere in Canada.

Diego and Jeremy invite everyone to come visit for a free consultation. Together we can continue the great progress of BC and we can build your company into a powerhouse known to everyone.

IMAGEWEAR22722 LOUGHEED HWY.

MAPLE RIDGETEL: 604-868-8478WEB: imagewear.ca

“We help companies improve their presence”

Diego Medina

MARKETING THROUGH IMAGEWEAR

PHOTO: Diego Medina

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

35

Anyone who knows downtown Maple Ridge is familiar with the iconic home furnishing store, Fuller Watson. Originally

opened in June of 1924, the store was moved to its present location at Lougheed Highway and 224th St. in 1932.

Still owned and operated by the Fuller family (now in its fourth generation of running the store), Dave Fuller is proud of the quality products the store provides.

“It’s great to offer everything from furniture and mattresses to appliances and accessories. People can furnish their whole home here,” Dave said. “Plus, this is a relaxed store where you can get all the help you need without fear of being followed by a commission sales person.”

The furniture carried by Fuller Watson represents solid value. These products are built to last and can survive the rigors of family life. More than what is seen in 26,000 square feet over three levels of the store, customers have the ability to customize their selections with different fabrics, feet, even pillows and foam options.

“We carry products of good quality,” noted Dave. “If it doesn’t measure up to our standards, we won’t carry it, plus, as part of a larger buying group we get the kinds of pricing a lot of big box retailers wish they could get.”

Brand Source is the buying group Fuller Watson is part of and is made up of more than 250 independent retailers (like Fuller Watson) in Canada and more than 3,400 stores across North American.

Fuller Watson exclusively sells GE appliances which includes a broad range of options from the affordable Moffat line all the way up to the GE Monogram, professional grade line of appliances. From fridges with ice makers and washer dryer combos, the GE lines include every

appliance a home owner would ever need.

“We stand behind them, that’s why we chose the GE range of products for the store,” Dave said.

With close to 20 staff, most who live in the community, everyone takes care to ensure the customer has the best experience possible while shopping for their home. Customers can expect to be greeted as they arrive and set their own pace for their shopping, taking as much time as they need to make the right decisions.

“It’s part of what we do,” Dave noted. “This isn’t like buying lunch. These are big purchases, often big ticket items and we want people to be comfortable in what they decide on. There is no pressure here and our customers can have all the time and help necessary.”

Many products are shown on the store’s website to make browsing an even greater selection of offerings possible from home.

When it comes to home, Fuller Watson believes in making every home more comfortable, even if it’s a temporary home stay at Ronald McDonald House, Brandsource’s charity of choice.

“We also support the Rotary Duck Race, Ridge Meadows Hospital Foundation, local sports and school organizations,” commented Dave.

Although Fuller Watson has been in the same location for many years, Dave notes that the brand lines are always evolving and changing to deliver the best quality products possible to home owners in the community.

FULLER WATSON22390 LOUGHEED HIGHWAY,


WEB: fullerwatsonbrandsource.ca

“There is no pressure here and our customers can have all the

time and help necessary.”Dave Fuller

HOME FURNISHINGS IN THE HEART OF MAPLE RIDGE

PHOTO: Justin and Dave Fuller

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

37

On September 12, 1874 Maple Ridge was established by a group of citizens who met at John McIver’s farmhouse. When

you hear Maple Ridge Mayor Ernie Daykin talk about this milestone the pride and passion that he has for the community is infectious.

“I pinch myself most days that I actually get to do this; that I get to be the Mayor of my home town,” Ernie said. “My great grandparents came in 1879 looking to forge a new life and for opportunity as well as to live their dreams. Here we are 140 years later and Maple Ridge continues to grow and evolving as new citizens bring their ideas, energy and dreams to this community,” he said.

While it’s easy to be nostalgic at the pending 140th birthday, much of that nostalgia reflects the shared values inherent in Maple Ridge both then and today.

“Maple Ridge has a strong sense of purpose and resolve. In the early years that passion and pride was forged around the neighbourhoods from which Maple Ridge emerged. Port Haney, Port Hammond, Ruskin, Whonnock, Webster’s Corners were hubs of social life. Back in those early days the citizens took it upon themselves to build and operate the first schools and libraries, and organized work parties to build roads,” noted Ernie.

“Today that sense of purpose and commitment to building Maple Ridge is evident in the vibrant local sports, arts, environment, faith and community service organizations that people strongly connect with, and dedicate their time to. It’s also evident in our entrepreneurs, the men and women who have invested their expertise, skills and financial resources in Maple Ridge,” said the Mayor.

“Maple Ridge has reinvented itself a number of times since it was established 140 years ago. In the 2013 Citizens Report there were a series of photos spanning a century that demonstrate the extent of change in Maple Ridge, and that change is accelerating,” said Mayor Daykin.

“In the last three years there has been over $100 million in private investment in our Town Centre. That’s not an accident. It is part of a plan. It is a vision that was established for our Maple Ridge that is becoming reality,” said Mayor Daykin. “I’m excited about where we are going as a community. We have a great team in our here, strong, smart and creative council members, a dedicated staff and amazing and passionate citizens who’ve demonstrated their commitment to Maple Ridge by investing their most precious asset – their time in building our community.”

“Why am I so unabashedly positive about the future of this community? It’s pretty simple. As you read through this publication you will see the leaders, the innovators and the visionaries at work in our community. The folks featured in this publication are the tip of the iceberg,” said Mayor Daykin. He continued “While we celebrate the amazing natural setting we live in, the most amazing resource of Maple Ridge is the people. There is no challenge that has ever proved too big for our citizens – and that’s been the case for 140 years. That’s what we will celebrate on September 12, 2014”

DISTRICT OF MAPLE RIDGE11995 HANEY PLACE,


WEB: mapleridge.ca

“In the last three years there has been over $100 million in private investment in

our Town Centre.”Ernie Daykin

MAPLE RIDGE. 140 YEARS IN THE MAKING.

PHOTO: Mayor Ernie Daykin with representatives of the Maple Ridge staff whose work turns Council’s vision into action.

An aerial view of Maple Ridge taken in 1929 taken from Maple Ridge’s 2013 Citizens Report

38

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

Awriter since she could hold a pen, Ronda Payne is passionate about her craft. In 2007, she kissed

‘real jobs’ goodbye and began her true occupation as a full time copywriter, freelancer and creative writer. A regular contributor to a variety of publications, Ronda continues to grow in her career by helping businesses find the right words and helping publishers deliver meaninful content.

Ronda joyfully lives in Maple Ridge BC in yet another renovation project with her husband and their pets.

CONTRIBUTORS

Ronda Payne Andrea Walker Ian Murdoch

Andrea Walker is an on-location portrait, editorial and event photographer working in the Fraser

Valley for private and commercial clients. Her work has been published by City of Pitt Meadows, Country Life in BC Magazine, What’s On Magazine, Heelsdown Magazine and UBC. Andrea’s focus has been on authentic portraiture in her subject’s reflective environment to capture mood and expression, visual story-telling for on-line and print marketing and civic event photography that captures the spirit of a community.

Once referred to as Commercial Art, then Graphic Design and now Branding, Ian Murdoch

has witnessed a huge transformation in his industry over the thirty years of graphic design and print production experience he brings to his clients.

“Much to the contrary of what some might have you believe, print media is alive and well. You’re holding testament to that in your hands right now,” says Ian.

Ian believes print media will continue to prove itself as an effective and affordable marketing solution.

girlwithapen.ca andreawalkerphotography.com murdochmedia.ca

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

39

BECKER & CO. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PITT MEADOWS & MAPLE RIDGE

MAPLE RIDGE HYUNDAI CITY OF PITT MEADOWS HANEY BUILDERS’ SUPPLIES

HOPCOTT PREMIUM MEATS MANION & ASSOCIATES CHANCES MAPLE RIDGE THE CO-OPERATORS THE WESBROOKE

MEADOWRIDGE SCHOOL SUNWOOD FALCON HOMES MARV JONES HONDA IMAGEWEAR

FULLER WATSON DISTRICT OF MAPLE RIDGE

PROFILES OF EXCELLENCEPublished by Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times - July 2014

For enquiries regarding participation of the next edition of Profiles of Excellence, please contact

Shannon Balla at the Maple Ridge & Pitt Meadows Times: [email protected]

PROFILESof

EXCELLENCE

profiles of excellence 2014

Documents