Mill Bay Pharmasave has new owners.
The drug store, located at 2720 Mill Bay Rd., has recently been purchased by Eric Skoretz and his partner Deidre Huestis.
Mill Bay Pharmasave, one of more than 850 Pharmasave locations across the country, has been owned and operated by the Skoretz family for more than 30 years.
It was initially purchased by Eric’s late father Ray Skoretz, in 1992, and subsequently operated by Eric’s mother, Heather Skoretz, after Ray died in 2000.
Eric and Deidre are keen to follow in Ray and Heather’s footsteps and continue to serve the community of Mill Bay.
“Come meet our new owners, indulge in light refreshments and enjoy a 20 per cent store-wide discount during Mill Bay Pharmasave’s operating hours on Nov. 15,” the store said in a release. “We hope to see you there.”
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The Thrifty Foods liquor store located in the Mill Bay Shopping Centre also has new owners.
Voyage Liquor Merchants announced it has purchased the store, along with two other Thrifty Foods liquor stores in Courtenay and Ganges.
The locally owned and operated Voyage Liquor Merchants, which owns a chain of liquor stores on Vancouver Island and Salt Spring Island, plan to reopen the three stores under the new brand this fall.
Voyage Liquor Merchants is known for its curated selection of local and global products, friendly and knowledgeable staff, and strong ties to the communities it serves.
“We are excited to bring the Voyage philosophy to these communities,” said Tanya Gaigneur, general manager of operations of Voyage Liquor Merchants. “Our goal is to create a welcoming experience where customers can easily find their everyday favourites while discovering new and exciting products. We value our deep connections to the local community and are proud to support local producers and partner with community groups to enrich the neighbourhoods we serve.”
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The City of Duncan’s long-anticipated place-making initiative on Station Street is set to begin on Nov. 25, and the Downtown Duncan Business Improvement Area wants its members and the public to know that it is working to minimize disruptions in the downtown core as much as possible during the construction project.
The project intends to transform Station Street Park into a dynamic public space that will serve as a hub for community events, festivals, and other activities.
The DDBIA said some of its members are concerned about possible impacts of the ongoing work on the project during the upcoming holiday season.
The business organization said it has been in active communications with the city’s planning department for more than two years to ensure the project supports the DDBIA’s community goals.
“As soon as the traffic-management plan for the project is delivered by the contractor, the DDBIA will meet with the city to review it and explore how we can best support this development while prioritizing commerce and accessibility downtown,” the DDBIA said.
“We have been assured that this timeline is firm and appreciate your patience and understanding as we navigate these changes together.”
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The Home Depot store on Drinkwater Road has partnered with Cowichan Valley Youth Services to raise funds in support of local youth experiencing vulnerabilities, including housing insecurity and who are at risk of homelessness.
From Nov. 12 to Dec. 22, customers can donate at the store’s checkout or online at OrangeDoorProject.ca.
All local donations will help Cowichan Valley Youth Services provide vital mental health supports to local youth throughout the Cowichan region.
“We are so grateful for the enduring support provided by Home Depot,” said CVYS executive director Zoe Lauckner.
“Ensuring youth have access to low-barrier, non-judgmental care through one-to-one counselling, outreach support, and vital employment services reduces the risk of long-term mental health challenges. Equipping youth with the skills and tools they need to rise above life’s challenges provides pathways away from vulnerabilities, including homelessness, substance use, and poverty.”
Through The Orange Door Project fundraising campaign, The Home Depot Canada Foundation supports 127 organizations that are committed to preventing and ending youth homelessness across the country.
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Members of the Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce and their guests are invited to bring a lunch and learn about workplace trends and new norms from representatives of My Smart HR and Leadership at the chamber’s next “Ask the Experts” event on Nov. 14.
In the years since the COVID pandemic, the workplace has transformed, and it’s unlikely to return to the “old normal.”
Rising litigation, shifting employee expectations, fierce competition for talent, and the importance of mental health at work are just a few of the challenges today’s employers face.
In this workshop, which will be held at the Cowichan Regional Visitor Centre from noon to 1 p.m., My Smart HR’s Ingrid Vaughan will explore the latest trends, changes in the employment landscape, and practical strategies you can use to lead confidently and competitively in the future.
“From understanding what’s coming to building the tools you need to attract and retain top talent, this session will prepare you for the evolving workplace,” the chamber said.
“Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your leadership approach for what lies ahead.”
The event is free for chamber members and their guests.
Register online, call 250-748-1111 or email [email protected].
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