Ottawa (May 19, 2009) - The Honourable Chuck Strahl, Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development, today announced a contribution to the Aboriginal Energy Partnership to establish a new fund that will support Aboriginal involvement in renewable energy hydro projects in BC.

“Our Government is committed to encouraging Aboriginal participation in resource and energy projects across Canada,” said Minister Strahl. “Through this unique approach, we are maximizing the benefits of our investment in Aboriginal economic development by leveraging capital from the private sector and other partners.”

By Felicia Greekas

As spring approaches and the season changes it brings a new feeling in the air. The days become fresh and light with the sun and rain bringing the earth back to life in full bloom. We clean out the clutter and make time for what’s really important.

This time of the year is especially important for brides and all the people who help support her and the groom for their big day. With so many plans a bride knows how important the people are who will help orchestrate the perfect day.

Enter Denise Halfyard, owner and operator of Halfyard Designs. In operation for just over a year, Denise is passionate about her work creating floral designs and decor for your dream wedding.

By Felicia Greekas

Walking off the elevator and into the reception area, there’s a definite feeling in the room, a buzz in the air.

Gathered are over 450 guests from regions across BC including the recipients of the 2009 awards and all those who support them.

There’s a strong excitement and pride in the room, as guests mingle and network amongst one another before the awards begin.

This is the first for the BC Aboriginal Business Awards hosted by the BC Achievement Foundation and the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation.

By Felicia Greekas

Tale’awtxw Aboriginal Capital Corporation (TACC) would like to congratulate three outstanding Aboriginal Entrepreneurs for their achievement in business.

Cristy Johnson, Danny Chase and Rhonda Dieni are being recognized for their success and hard work by the BC Aboriginal Business Awards created through the BC Achievement Foundation

Cristy Johnson, owner of Cristy’s Jewelry Designs has been in business for two and a half years creating unique one-of-a-kind jewelry designs for her contemporary jewelry collection. She began designing her pieces after attending a bead show in Arizona with her aunt that led her to start her own business.

In 2008 she was sought out to be member of the gift lounge for the Much Music Video Awards where she showcased her creative designs and talent by creating custom pieces for the stars.

Heading into her third year of business, Cristy Johnson is this year’s recipient of the Young Female Aboriginal Entrepreneur of the Year Award.

“I feel like this is what I’m supposed to be doing. I couldn’t imagine doing anything else,” Cristy said about her business.

Creating great momentum for 2009, Cristy is an entrepreneur worth keeping an eye on.

For Cristy and Debbie Johnson, starting their businesses is second nature. Full of a family of entrepreneurs, they are leading the way for others in their family to follow suit. Both women have businesses located in Victoria, BC, with a great network of small business supporters.

Debbie Johnson, owner of Victoria Concierge Services was born into business. At a young age, she was assisting in the family business – a hotel and restaurant in Yale. Later, she taught hospitality and tourism skills and was then an instructor at the University of Fraser Valley.

With a desire to be self employed and a passion for working with people, Debbie opened a bed & breakfast in Courtenay, BC. When her husband was transferred to Victoria, she researched what the city needed and began the process to open Victoria Concierge Services.

Knowing there’s a new market for concierge services; Debbie has been networking with other local businesses that have been very supportive. She offers her services through dedicated client care, providing her customers with more time for themselves and their families. She offers help with managing her clients’ personal or professional lives to give them back the time they deserve.

Jason Clarke knows something about business. As the new owner of MediChair Fraser Valley, he’s been able to build the company up after purchasing it in March of this year. Working in the industry since 1998 he’s found his passion and is doing what he loves – helping people.

With 20 years of experience in the interior design industry, Della Charland, owner of Old World Interiors brings a balance of unique strengths to her company. She gives her customers a lot to choose from, offering an array of services from picture framing, fresh and silk floral arrangements, window treatments of all kinds, bed and table linens to custom drapery, and upholstery for home, auto, and marine. Her diverse services give her the opportunity to use her strengths in the different areas of her business. She apprenticed with many talented people earlier in her career, which now gives her the confidence to work with both interior designers and consumers.

I’m greeted with a warm smile and kind eyes. The presence of this couple is welcoming and I take out my pen and paper and begin my notes, not wanting to miss a thing. Painting and art is something I’ve longed to do – and throughout this interview I’m called even more to “stop talking about it and pick up a paintbrush and paint” as I’m gently told by Christopher Johnston, the creative spirit behind Ice Bear Studios located on Vancouver Island, BC.

Getting a fresh start for the new year is important to most people. The new year provides an opportunity to set some new, clear goals and see how far you’ve come from the year before. Goals and “New Year’s Resolutions” vary from person to person and feeling good about our appearances is usually high on the list; relaxation and pampering is a great way to accomplish that.

The end of 2007 is fast approaching where people get ready for the holidays filled with traditions and family.  Everyone starts to take time out to spend with family and friends and enjoy some down time, after the fast-paced weeks of Christmas shopping and crazy malls are complete. By the end of the year, we begin to reflect on how the year has been significant, what has changed and the growth and achievements accomplished.