Duncan’s Dairy Queen has raised approximately $4,700 for this year’s Tour de Rock.
Travis Berthiaume, owner of the Dairy Queen in Duncan, said about $3,200 was raised in June when the restaurant donated 10 per cent of sales for three days to the cause, and a further $1,500 was raised when Dairy Queen recently donated a dollar from every Blizzard and Royal Treat sold to Tour de Rock.
“It’s a good cause and I really like those guys for what they’re doing,” Berthiaume said.
The annual Tour de Rock is a fundraiser to help kids with cancer in which most of the participants are police officers and first responders.
The participants train for months to ride bicycles approximately 11,000 kilometres from Port Alice at the top of Vancouver Island to Victoria, collecting donations along the way.
First set in motion in 1997, Tour de Rock typically raises $1 million each year, and has already raised $56 million to date.
The riders came through the Cowichan Valley on Sept. 30 and Berthiaume handed them a cheque for the final instalment of $1,500 from Dairy Queen while they were here.
Last year, Berthiaume raised more than $30,000 for the BC Children’s Hospital in Vancouver from all of the fundraisers for that cause held at his restaurant during the year.
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Duncan’s Kinsol Veterinary Clinic has added three new vets.
The new veterinarians are Dr. Blossom de Bruin, Dr. Melissa Jung and Dr. Karyn Arthur.
“Their expertise, compassion and dedication to animal care are already making a positive impact and we couldn’t be more excited to have them on board,” the clinic's Facebook page said.
The Kinsol Clinic also said its rehabilitation department, launched last year by Dr. Georgina Lorimar, is expanding.
“In addition to the previously offered services, which included rehab programs and an underwater treadmill, Dr. Lorimar is now offering laser therapy,” the clinic said.
“This treatment helps reduce pain, inflammation and speeds up healing. With all this growth, we are thrilled to be welcoming new applications for the clinic. Give us a call, or stop by to learn more.”
For more information, check out kinsolvet.ca or call 250-929-5888.
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The Cowichan Women’s Business Network has announced its official launch.
The CWBN is dedicated to supporting growth, celebrating success, and helping other courageous women follow their dreams.
It is a community for like-hearted women in leadership committed to mutual growth, celebrating success, and supporting others in the Cowichan region to achieve their professional and business goals.
The network provides monthly events, member benefits, a directory, and opportunities for business visibility and leadership.
The first official CWBN event is scheduled for Oct. 16 at the Oceanfront Hotel in Cowichan Bay.
The event features dinner, a guest speaker, open networking, door prizes, and opportunities for members to display a showcase table or sponsor the event.
Tickets will be available soon, with member and non-member rates.
“Inclusivity is central and CWBN aims to build a safe, vibrant space for professional growth, support, collaboration, and giving back,” the network said.
For more information or to join, visit www.cwbn.ca.
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A friendly reminder that people have until Nov. 14 to drop off donations for the Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce’s annual online auction at the Cowichan Regional Visitor Centre.
“We’re continually inspired by the generosity of our members and the way local businesses give back to the Cowichan community,” the chamber said.
“That same spirit makes our annual online auction in support of the Cowichan Regional Visitor Centre such a success year after year. Every contribution, whether a product, a service, or a special experience, becomes part of a showcase that celebrates the best of our Valley.”
Donated Items can be dropped off at the visitor centre, or get in touch with the chamber if you want them picked up.
Email Kirsty at [email protected] or call 250-746-4636.
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In other chamber news, get ready to swing, sip, and socialize at the next Chamber Mix & Mingle on Oct. 23.
The event will be held at The Tee Box, the Cowichan Valley’s very first indoor golf simulator lounge, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
With state-of-the-art Trackman technology, it’s a fun spot for golfers and non-golfers alike.
"Come enjoy a relaxed evening of conversation, connections, and community,” the chamber said.
“Sample tasty bites, sip your favourite drink, and explore one of the Valley’s newest venues while catching up with fellow members. Reserve your spot today and join us for a night of networking and fun.”
Admission is free for chamber members and their guests, but space is limited.
Register online, call 250-748-1111 or email [email protected].
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The BC Chamber of Commerce invites you to a practical session on how small businesses can harness the power of AI to save time and work smarter.
Led by Trevor Bruintjes of Peaks and Valleys AI Strategies, this no-fluff webinar delves beyond the hype to showcase real-world examples of how entrepreneurs are utilizing tools like ChatGPT to free up six or more hours a week, enhance customer experiences, and make more informed business decisions.
Participants will walk away with clear, actionable steps they can apply immediately, and no tech background is required.
This complimentary session will be hosted via Zoom.
For more information, go to bcchamber.org.
