Back to the Future:
 
Loving the news lately! Too often the newspapers of the world focus on the negative, but lately here in Port Alberni we’ve been watching the growth, the passion, the prosperity. We’re witness to the future.
Recently we enjoyed the article in the AV Times informing us of a new, yet classic style barbershop coming soon to the Uptown area. Kudos to Garrett and Danielle Pettie for their initiative, their focus, and their creative approach. The barbershop is well underway with an opening planned for some time in September. My advice; grow your hair for a few weeks so that you are early in line for what will likely be an enjoyable experience in the back room of Cloud Nine; another of Port Alberni’s newer businesses. Well done Garrett and Danielle; the place looks great (I’ve taken a peek already!).
Not to be outdone Krista Archambault and Mike Adam position themselves on the front page of the AV Times as they inform the public of how they too are mixing past with present with their new restaurant “Big Mike’s Drive-In.” Located in the old A&W property on 3rd Avenue, both Krista and Mike believe in their business model. Featuring a retro feeling with checkered counter tops, 50’s music and pictures and of course great food, the couple is positioning for an August opening. No doubt we’ll see some old Ramblers, Biscaynes and countless muscle cars alongside today’s Hyundai’s and other ‘smart’ cars parked side by each at the Drive In! Looking forward to witnessing your success Krista and Mike!
Then just yesterday, also on the front page of the AV Times, we see the combined entrepreneurship of Corena Brown and Jennifer Sears as they put together their former business models including; Sew Sweet Clothing, Blush Apparel and Beckonings Upcycled Furnishings, to create Wisteria Lane located on lower Johnston Road. The article also featured the passion of Carolee Wolfhagen in her home based business known as Cup Crave; a concept that allows her to work toward her eventual dream of developing her own bakery. Clearly she is well on her way! Reading further into the article we see more about Cloud City owned and operated by Dustin Dame who took the plunge a few months ago and is already seeing the fruits of his labour. The best thing about all of this is that these businesses are being created by the future leaders of Port Alberni.
And then today….we read about $3 million in up-town investment by the Uchucklesaht First Nation as they plan to revitalize and reposition the Rusty Anchor Inn on lower Argyle, into a cultural centre, administration offices and accommodations.
These initiatives, in addition to the plans from Mike Surrell of Lady Rose Marine Services, and the Coulson Group for the old Zellers building clearly point to a healthy and prosperous community; many of whom will soon be donning their bathing suits down at Canal Beach.
The Chamber of Commerce congratulates and THANKS each of our entrepreneurs, past, present and future.