balance Maintaining Canadian top ten rankings for lifestyle, low municipal taxes and affordable labour costs combined with among the lowest electricity rates in North America, an extensive transportation network and supportive leadership, Brandon offers a dynamic environment to grow your business. Rather than spending your time in traffic, Brandon’s maximum in-city commute of 12 minutes allows you the freedom to choose how you spend your time. Time to grow your business, time to spend with family and friends, time for recreation, time for education. The choice is yours.
Economic Development
From profit to personal reward, 1-866-729-2132 you belong in Brandon. www.economicdevelopmentbrandon.com BRANDON Business IN THIS Review is published by DEL Communications Inc. Issue Suite 300, 6 Roslyn Road Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada R3L 0G5 Messages & Regular Reports President’s Message ...... President 4 David Langstaff General Manager’s Message...... 4 Publisher Brandon Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors ...... 4 Jason Stefanik Greetings from the Mayor of Brandon – Shari Decter Hirst...... 5 Managing Editor Shayna Wiwierski Benefits of Chamber Membership...... 14 Advertising Account Executives Cheryl Ezinicki Jennifer Hebert Features Gladwyn Nickel Dayna Oulion Welcome to the Wheat City...... 6
Contributing Writers th Jason Boblinski The Brandon Chamber of Commerce’s 129 Annual Dinner...... 15 Daniella Ponticelli Jordan Thompson McCrimmon Scores 201011 Business Person of the Year ...... 16 Sandy Trudel
Production services provided by: Advising the Community S.G. Bennett Marketing Services The Business Builder of the Year: Judy Collyer...... 18 www.sgbennett.com
Art Director Towing the Line of Success Kathy Cable The 2010-11 Entrepreneur of the Year Award Recipient: Accel Towing ...... 20
Layout / Design Dana Jensen Giving Back to the Community Business Excellence Over 15 Award Winner: MyITsource.ca...... 22 Cover Design Deryn Bothe The ‘Fair’est of Them All Advertising Art Business Excellence Under 15 Award Recipient: Deryn Bothe | Julie Weaver The Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba...... 24
© Copyright 2011, DEL Communications Inc. All rights reserved.The contents of this From VHS to DVD, HDMAX Productions Brings the Past Back to Life...... 28 publica tion may not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without prior written consent of the publisher. A Spot of Green in Brandon ...... 30 While every effort has been made to ensure the accu- racy of the information contained herein and the relia- bility of the source, the publisher in no way guarantees Brandon Hosts North American Horse Show ...... 32 nor warrants the information and is not responsible for errors, omissions or statements made by advertisers. Opinions and recommendations made by contributors Lifestyle People or advertisers are not necessarily those of the publisher, Stream ‘N’ Wood is Still Riding Strong After 26 Years...... 34 its directors, officers or employees.
Publications mail agreement #40934510 Return undeliverable Cash In on Your Business Innovations...... 36 Canadian addresses to: DEL Communications Inc. Suite 300, 6 Roslyn Road ACC Campus Redevelopment in Brandon Takes Next Step Forward Winnipeg, Manitoba Investment Totals Over $57 Million: Selby...... 38 Canada R2L 0L5 Email: [email protected] DEL Finding Great Employees Communications Inc. Career Connections Inc...... 40
PRINTED IN CANADA Index to Advertisers...... 10/2011 42
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 3 ••• PRESIDENT & GENERAL MANAGER MESSAGES
Greetings from the Brandon Chamber of Commerce President CAM CLARK
As president of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce it is my sincere ber of Commerce takes great pride in recognizing our member's ef- pleasure to introduce you to the fourth edition of the Brandon Busi- forts to create a strong business and community environment. ness Review. Our goal with this magazine is to showcase some of the I sincerely hope you enjoy our publication and I wish you all the outstanding businesses in this great community. The Brandon Cham- best in this upcoming chamber year. •••
Greetings from the Brandon Chamber of Commerce General Manager NATHAN PETO
Thank you for taking the time to read the fourth edition of the Bran- say we have come through it more determined and stronger than don Business Review. We take great pride in this publication because ever. The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is the voice of the busi- it showcases the real strength of the chamber – its members. Our ness community and we’ll continue our work to ensure that. Please membership continues to thrive in challenging economic times and enjoy these stories of business success in our community and please continues to invest in our great city. The 2011 flood tested the re- contact us to learn more about the tools the Brandon Chamber of silience of our businesses, as well as community, and I am proud to Commerce can give your business to prosper and grow. •••
Board of Directors
Cam Clark – President Craig Senchuk – Secretary/Treasurer Nate Andrews – Vice-President PJ Crane – Past President
Karla Dane – Director Sharon Shepherd – Director Kent Forman – Director Todd Birkhan – Director Chad Wallin – Director Frank Arndt – Director Daniel Burns – Director Denny Bouchard – Director Darren Blazeiko – Director Carla Milne – Director
4 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 MAYOR’S MESSAGES •••
Greetings from the Mayor of Brandon SHARI DECTER HIRST
Retooling for growth
Brandon’s unprecedented growth has been a boon to our economy, to compliment the city’s new direction. We can’t expect to get dif- but it has also created challenges within the city and within city ferent results if we keep doing things the way we always have. We hall. We have had over 2,000 new housing starts since 2006, and are hiring into several new positions including a director of Plan- continue to push past previous years’ records in 2011. Yet despite ning, an additional engineer, and a financial analyst with a primary this activity, we continue to have one of the lowest vacancy rates in responsibility to look at alternative sources of revenue beyond Canada. Clearly, there is more we have to do to close this gap. property taxes. With our augmented bench strength, we can start Infrastructure pressures have followed along with this develop- moving forward on several different fronts. ment. Our current infrastructure deficit for Brandon sits at $160 Of course, all this is done within the shadow of the 2011 Assini- million. This does not include new projects, which given our hous- boine flood. Infrastructure along the affected areas, including ing shortage, we know that we’ll need to take on. Twenty per cent recreation along the riverbank corridor, will need to be completed, of our current infrastructure is crossing the century line. As a city, and we will also be including flood 2012 preparations in our we will need to move this aggressively forward on the priority list; budget forecasts. otherwise we will not be able to meet our growth projections. The economy in western Manitoba will also be impacted, and Council and senior administration have been meeting exten- when our friends and neighbours in rural Manitoba are hurting, sively to develop a roadmap for growth for Brandon. Based on five Brandon feels their pain as well. pillars of enhancing natural, cultural, and heritage resources; 2011 has been a year of analysis and laying down plans for the strengthening community; generating housing; fostering a strong future based on our strengths as a community and as a corpora- economy; and creating vibrant urban places, we have built a solid tion. Those plans include building capacity so that we can imple- plan. There are exciting upcoming projects within each pillar, and ment them. We are building a roadmap for growth, a prosperous each pillar supports a solid structure to build a prosperous city. city, a place where our kids will want to put down roots and raise But a plan is only paper and PowerPoints unless we also have a their own families, and a place in which they will start their own capacity to implement it, and the foresight to do so. careers. City Hall has also been challenged by our current growth, and so Building is always about the future, and together, I feel, we are we are restructuring and bringing in new skill sets and experiences moving in the right direction. •••
Take an inside look into this year’s edition of the Brandon Business Review magazine by scanning this QR code with your smartphone! Download a QR reader from your phone’s app store to view the video.
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 5 Welcome to the WHEAT CITY
By Sandy Trudel, Economic Development Officer, City of Brandon
At the very heart of North America lies Bran- best place to live in Canada. Contributing to cluding Applied Disaster and Emergency don, Manitoba, a city that has built its repu- Brandon’s overall cost competitive environ- Studies, Psychiatric Nursing, Wind Turbine tation on providing the atmosphere in which ment is the fact that there is no municipal Specialization, and Emergency Response business can succeed. Brandon is rated as business tax. The economy’s diversification training programs. Brandon University is the best municipality for small business in provides an extremely stable and positive home to the renowned School of Music and Western Canada. Brandon has the highest environment for businesses to compete serves as a magnet for a diverse range of mu- pre-tax net income for both small and large within the global economy. sical talent. Given the resulting competitive manufacturing firms. A talented, well-edu- Brandon is the only Canadian city with a advantage, pursuing smart jobs and a smart cated and productive labour force, low utility population less than 50,000 that offers a uni- economy is not only a natural fit but a prior- costs and lower than average start-up costs versity, a regional community college, and an ity for Brandon. By focusing on innovation, contribute to the cost advantages of operat- emergency services college. Brandon’s col- learning and constant adaptation, Brandon ing a manufacturing plant in Brandon. Most leges and university attract faculty and stu- will continue to thrive. recently, Brandon was ranked the best place dents from around the globe by offering From its earliest inception, Brandon was, to live in Western Canada and the seventh one-of-a-kind education opportunities in- and today remains, the service centre for
SUPPORTING THE Canada BUSINESS COMMUNITY Moving Commercial & Hospitality Cleaning Services IN BRANDON
938 Douglas Street Brandon, MB R7A 7B2 Mike Becker T (204) 729-8647 Manager F (204) 727-0963 TF (888) 781-7667 [email protected] Member of
6 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 Sunset water skiers.
southwest Manitoba’s 180,000 plus residents and an important contributor to the Mani- toba economy. Brandon’s labour force is re- gional in nature and has proven to be an ex- tremely stable and committed workforce. The labour force is drawn from approxi- mately 67 municipalities, with 25 per cent of the labour force living in rural communities Communication outside the city’s boundaries. Brandon’s di- verse economic base has enabled the city to Solutions for Business carve out a long-standing reputation as a city that offers both a stable economy and room • Faster Data Speed on and opportunity for businesses to compete the 4G Wireless Network profitably in the global marketplace. This di- • Connections on the Go verse economic base coupled with strong • Flexible Office Solutions economic growth experienced in the past decade, enabled Brandon to weather the re- cent global economic crisis with far greater resiliency than other Canadian centres. When considering all types and sizes of business, Brandon is home to approximately 2,000 businesses, of which roughly 350 di- CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE rectly serve the agricultural marketplace. WORKING WITH YOU, www.myphone.ca Brandon’s ties to the agricultural sector are FOR YOU CALL US TODAY strengthened by the presence of an Agricul- ture Canada Research Station which is also 571.4055 home to the Agri-Environment Centre. These two centres bring integrated expertise and 1.866.257.7065 innovative environmental solutions to the Unit C – 1417 Rosser Avenue • Brandon, Manitoba agriculture and Agri-food sector. Offers are for a limited time and subject to change without notice. Hardware is subject to availability and service is subject to technical and network limitations. 4G Network Brandon’s economic growth continues to available with an HSPA enabled device and SIM card. Network speeds vary depending on customer’s location and hardware. See Dealer for details. MTS design mark is a registered be fueled by the secondary growth related trade-mark of Manitoba Telecom Services Inc., used under license. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 7 Corral Centre and flowers. to the addition of a second shift at Maple wastewater treatment facility, a CancerCare Leaf Food’s state-of-the-art pork processing Manitoba facility, and twinning of the 18th plant, incremental growth at local manufac- Street bridge. Multi-level partnerships are turing firms and large public projects includ- driving the construction of a new YMCA, a ing the installation of an instrument landing Healthy Living Centre at Brandon University, system at the Brandon airport, construction a downtown skateboard park and the relo- of a new fire hall, police station, industrial cation and expansion of Assiniboine Com-
& Vein Treatment Clinic
Treatments:Treaatttmments: +20(&200(5&,$/)$507(1$176 Botox Cosmetic ® | Juvederm ® | VolumaVolum ® | Sculptra ® &/$,06%21',1*75$9(//,)(,1685$1&( Microdermabrasion | Chemical Peels | Hair Removal Photofacials | Latisse (Lash Treatment)Treatment) SclerotherapySclerotherapy - all varicose and spider veinsve SkinSkin Care Care Lines: VivierVivier | Skin TX | Celazome (Exclusive)(Exclusive) “TALK TO THE DOCTOR” GloGlo MineralsMinerals MakeupMakeup ® to get the look you want +RPH2I¿FH 9LFWRULD$YHQXH 6KRSSHUV0DOO%UDQGRQ 3KRQH 7ROO)UHH 339 Princess Avenue | Brandon, MB | R7A 0N7 FREE CONSULTATIONS www.guildinsurance.ca Phone | 204.727.1920
SOUND REINFORCEMENT & AUDIO VISUAL Sales • Rentals & Production Conferences • Conventions • Auctions • Fairs Sales Meetings • Seminars • Focus Groups Large & Small Venues “Pride… Integrity… Excellence” Since 1969
P.O. Box 50005 Brandon, MB R7A 7E4 P: (204) 727-3638 F: (204) 726-3370 www.benmarks.com [email protected]
8 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 Immigration by Landing Year
munity College to the historical grounds of residential sales and the construction of new units. While 2010 new dwelling units were the former Brandon Mental Health Centre. dwelling units. In the past decade, close to weaker than 2009, 2011 year-to-date new Overall building permits in all sectors of 3,000 new dwelling units have been con- dwelling permits show a 50 per cent increase the economy continue to see positive structed, 50 per cent of which were multiple over 2010 figures. Despite strong residential growth. As one would expect in a growing family units. Between 2006 and 2009, Bran- construction, housing prices have increased community, Brandon has recorded a steady don averaged 372 new dwelling units each annually and the average rental vacancy rate increase in the number and dollar volume of year with 2009 recording 417 new dwelling remains extremely low at 1.3 per cent. Both
Save up to $ daily 25with Rental Car Insurance Before you rent a car, choose Rental Car Insurance from Manitoba Public Insurance.
Compared to collision damage waivers offered by the rental company, you can save up to $25 each day on your rental. What’s more, we’ve designed Rental Car Insurance to give you the best protection available against the financial risks of renting. It’s available for rentals in Manitoba, elsewhere in Canada and the U.S. So talk to your Autopac agent about our Rental Car Insurance before you rent. It’ll be money in your pocket!
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 9 indicators of a housing market where de- mand exceeds supply. Therefore, strong res- idential growth is anticipated for years to come. Brandon’s stable economic growth is en- hanced by the enviable quality of life Bran- don residents enjoy. MoneySense magazine ranked Brandon the best place to live in Western Canada and the seventh best place to live in Canada for good reason. Brandon boasts amenities, services, educational and employment opportunities generally found in much larger centres, yet has a maximum in-city commute of 12 minutes. As a medical referral centre for Western Manitoba, the medical services available in Brandon are ex- tensive. For non-teaching hospitals in Man- itoba, the Brandon Regional Health Centre offers the widest range of specialized serv- ices. Though Brandon presents all the diver- sity and conveniences of a larger centre, our city has remained a close knit community that looks out for one another. Brandon’s growing newcomer population is adding an
10 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 exciting cultural dimension to the commu- nity. Historically, Brandon has experienced minimal immigration. Between 1995 and 2003, an average of 66 immigrants made Brandon their home annually. A growing economy, coupled with a national labour CURTIS KEBER shortage and a highly successful Provincial Store Manager The North West Company LP The North West Company LP Immigration Program has resulted in notable 2626 Victoria Ave. 300 Mountain Ave. P.O Box 2190 immigration growth in recent years. In 2004, Brandon, Manitoba R7B 0M8 Neepawa, Manitoba R0J 1H0 the historical average doubled and has con- 204 728 6443 204 476 5140 Fax: 204 728 6572 Cell: 204 573 1538 Fax: 204 476 5164 tinued to climb upward. In 2007, 642 immi- Website: www.gianttiger.com grants moved to Brandon and in 2010, Bran- don welcomed 1,433 immigrants. The ma- jority of immigrant growth since 2006 has been in three language groups: Spanish, Mandarin, and Ukrainian/Russian. Arts and culture are a very important part of what makes Brandon such a great place to live. The Western Manitoba Centennial Audi- torium is a hub for professional and amateur musical and drama performances. The Art Gallery of Southwestern Manitoba show- cases the work of international, national, re- 15 LOCATIONS gional, and local artists and has been pro- TO SERVE YOU viding hands-on art instruction for over 75 years. The gallery is home to a ceramics facil- Beausejour ...... 204-268-1603 Grandview ...... 204-546-2020 Ste. Rose ...... 204-447-3152 Brandon ...... 204-728-1986 Kamsack, SK ...... 306-542-3633 Steinbach ...... 204-326-3481 ity second to none in Canada. Local musi- Dauphin ...... 204-638-5303 Portage la Prairie ..204-239-8750 Thompson...... 204-778-8363 cians regularly perform in local restaurants Eriksdale ...... 204-739-2110204-739-2110 RoblinRooblin ...... 204-937-8371204-937-8371 Yorkton,, SK ...... 306-783-8516306-783-8516 or lounges that have incorporated live music Flin FlFlonon ...... 204-687-3401204-687-3401 RussellRussell ...... 204-773-2690204-773-2690 WinnipegWinnipeg ...... 204-837-1347204-837-1347 into their ambiance. With countless volun- www.mcmunnandyates.comwww.mcmunnandyates.com teer and professional theatre, arts, dance and BuildingBuilding AcrossAcross thethe PrairiesPrrairies musical groups, Brandon offers metropolitan culture with a small-town heart. With the Assiniboine River winding 17 kilometres through the heart of Brandon, ap- Capitalizing on Strengths. proximately 50 kilometres of paved walking and hiking trails, countless parks, forests, Delivering Solutions. rivers, and lakes within a short drive of Bran- don, and cottage country as close as 20 min- utes away, the area is an oasis for outdoor en- thusiasts. The growing value and volume of build- LAND SURVEYING 3D SCANNING MAPPING LIDAR GIS ing permits and residential construction and sales, low vacancy rates in rental accommo- Brandon Virden dations, and consistent growth in job cre- 100-158 11th St. 280 Ashburton St. E., Box 307 Brandon, Manitoba R7A 4J4 Virden, Manitoba R0M 2C0 ation attest to the fact that Brandon’s com- T 204 727 0651 T 204 748 6860 toll-free toll-free mitment to developing a supportive busi- 1 800 366 9755 1 877 748 6860 F 204 727 5247 F 204 748 6165 ness environment is not mere words, but rather a day-to-day practice. Maintaining Formerly Lennon Trilogy Professional Land Surveyors Canadian top 10 rankings for lifestyle, low altusgeomaticsmb.com municipal taxes, and affordable labour costs
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 11 Behlen Industries plant.
progressivesanitation.com
Spencer Day 204.761.8221 [email protected]
1323 Rosser Avenue Brandon, Manitoba R7A 0M3
office: 204.729.9210 fax: 204.728.1243 1.888.729.9210
1040—26th Street, Brandon, Manitoba R7B 2C1 Specializing in Reverse Osmosis Home/Office/City/Rural Delivery Water Cooler Sales/Rentals/Sanitizing Water Treatment/Filtration Systems Sales & Service Certified Installer of Geosmart Geothermal
Toll Free: 1-866-768-4847 Phone: (204) 729-8844 Fax: (204) 727-4630
12 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 Completely renovated in 2010, Winnipeg’s’ Viscount Gort Hotel is a modern hotel boasting 135 spacious guest rooms. Our hotel is perfect for out of town guests, providing the following features: *VTWSPTLU[HY`PUYVVT^PYLSLZZ0U[LYUL[HJJLZZ Brandon University. >LLRKH`KHPS`UL^ZWHWLY *VTWSPTLU[HY`JVMMLLHUK[LH 7H`WLY]PL^TV]PLZ ZTVRLMYLLLU]PYVUTLU[ 4HU`YVVTZ[OH[MLH[\YLWYP]H[LIHSJVUPLZ
Our hotel also has a pool with waterslide, The Gort Dining Room offering full breakfast, lunch and dinner menus and Average Joe’s sports bar and gaming lounge.
7SLHZLJVU[HJ[\Z[VYLZLY]LHYVVTVYÄUKV\[TVYLHIV\[V\YH7SLHZLJVU[HJ[ \Z [V YLZLY]L H YVVT VY ÄUK V\[ TVYL HIV\[ V\Y HTTLUP[PLZLUP[PLZ 11670670 Portage AvenueAAvvenue Winnipeg,Winnipeg, Manitoba, CanadaCanada R3JR3J 0C90C9 TTeTelel (204)(204) 775-045775-04511 Toll-freeTTooll-free 1-800-665-11221-8000-665-1122 Fax (204)(204) 772-2161 General Information [email protected]@viscount-gort.com Wheat City Golf Course. Reservations [email protected]@viscount-gort.com
MTS Connect Victoria Avenue
ACC Institute of Culinary Arts students. combined with the lowest electricity rates in North America, an extensive transportation network and supportive community leader- ship, Brandon offers a dynamic environment to grow your business. When you combine Brandon’s attractive business environment with a balanced lifestyle, profit and personal reward are the natural result. In today’s busy world, time is a precious commodity. Thanks to Brandon’s maximum in-city commute of 12 minutes, business owners spend little time in traffic which allows them the free- dom to choose how they spend their time. Time to grow their business, time to spend with family and friends, time for recreation, time for education, the choice is theirs. •••
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 13 BENEFITS OF CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP Six Reasons to be a Chamber Member THE POWER OF AFFILIATION 1 Lobbying & Advocacy 800 business people with one unified voice for business means With more than 650 member-companies, the Brandon Chamber of protection for your business. Businesses faced with unfair Commerce is the credible Voice of Business, speaking out on behalf government administration, taxation, or legislation can use of all members on a variety of topics, including working with the the Chamber as a valuable resource. Well-established chan- City of Brandon and Brandon School Division on business-related nels to government and the power of representing over 800 issues. The Chamber has also lobbied municipal, provincial and fed- delegates give the Chamber a voice that speaks louder than eral government representatives regarding issues that face our each business can alone. Chamber members. 2 Leads, Referrals & Networking MAKING THE MOST OF IT The Brandon Chamber is about making connections...whether it’s ADVERTISING chamber staff getting to know you and telling others about you or Advertise to a targeted market through the Chamber Insider e whether it’s you attending a variety of gatherings from small group newsletter, Chamber a glance, membership roster, mail inserts events (Committee meetings and Business After 5’s) to larger func- and event sponsorship. As a new member, you also receive tions (Luncheons, the Annual Dinner or Golf Tournament). recognition at the first luncheon you attend and an opportunity Or whether it’s you connecting with other Chamber members for a free member profile in the Chamber a glance. through our business directory, with its nearly 70 pages of listings and contacts - a who’s who of the business community. NETWORKING You are your greatest asset in teaching other people about what 3 Awareness & Promotion of Your Business your business can do for them. By attending a luncheon, Busi Joining the Brandon Chamber is about raising your profile in the ness After 5, Friday morning coffee break and other special business community. The Chamber offers you numerous opportu- events you can spread the word about your business to other nities to promote your business through sponsorship of a variety of Chamber members in the Brandon community. This is also your events from luncheons and networking events to dinners and golf opportunity to learn about other businesses and how they can tournaments. be of service to you. The Brandon Chamber of Commerce also provides advertis- ing opportunities for your company in both print and electronic ADDING YOUR VOICE media, getting your message out to more than 800 business owners There are many opportunities to assist on a Chamber committee and their employees. to lend your hand towards various Chamber initiatives on behalf of the business community. To maximize your membership ben 4 Cost Reduction Programs efit get involved, meet people and be available for other mem bers. Use the Chamber to broaden your personal network. Other The Brandon Chamber can save you money and make it easier to do business leaders who know the pressures of ownership can offer business through such member benefits as group insurance, mer- insight to the local marketplace or can be a sounding board for chant discounts and payroll. your newest idea.
5 Learning, Education & Development DISCOUNTS Whether it’s attending our luncheons and hearing from key politi- Various discounts are available to Chamber members, such as; cal, business and community leaders or coming out to our special AAA Security Systems; Ceridian payroll; Christie’s Office Plus; events throughout the year, the Brandon Chamber keeps you up- Imperial Oil; Enterprise RentACar; MTS; F.H. Black & Com to-date on topics of current interest. pany; The Chamber of Commerce Group Insurance Plan; and The Brandon Chamber also provides you with an opportunity the Visa/Mastercard/Interac Merchant Plan. to volunteer and grow as an individual - whether it’s helping to de- velop policy, speaking at a Chamber meeting or welcoming guests As a member of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce, at a Chamber event. you are automatically associated with the Manitoba 6 Community Betterment and Canadian Chambers of Commerce! Brandon is a great place to live, work and play, and the Brandon For further information please contact the Chamber is doing its part to make it even better. The Brandon Chamber is proactively going after companies looking to open, ex- Brandon Chamber of Commerce at pand or relocate and convincing them that Brandon is the ideal lo- (204) 571-5340 or email at cation. We love our city and encourage current residents to stay and [email protected] more people to come.
14 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 The Brandon Chamber of Commerce’s 129th Annual Dinner
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is plan- SILVER PLUS - $2,000 (Limited Availability) - Medium PowerPoint recognition: logo, tag ning its 129th Annual Dinner, tentatively Special Naming/Logo Opportunities line scheduled for Thursday, March 15, 2012. The - Red or white wine, chocolate and liqueur - ¼ page advertisement in the Annual Din- Chamber dinner is “The” Premier Business - Complimentary drinks at the Champagne ner program Gala Dinner in Brandon. Reception - Follow-up “Thank You” in the Chamber At- Join us in making this year’s Annual Din- - One ticket to the event (Approx. $125 A-Glance newsletter value) ner another great success! - MC recognition at the event BRONZE - $500 - Plus all benefits of the Silver Sponsorship - Logo identification 2012 Sponsorship Packages level - PowerPoint recognition: logo PLATINUM - $4,000 (Exclusive) - 1/8 page advertisement in the Annual Din- - Table of eight seats to the event (Approx. CHAMPAGNE RECEPTION - $1,500 ner program $1,000 value) Special Company Naming of Champagne - Follow-up “Thank You” in the Chamber At- - Complimentary drinks at the Champagne Reception A-Glance newsletter Reception - Company name recognition on invitation - Company logo on invitations and tickets and tickets for the Champagne Reception SUPPORTER - $150 - Maximum pre-event media advertising in- - Complimentary drinks at the Champagne - Must have 20 or less employees cluding the Chamber website, e-news, Reception - PowerPoint recognition: logo and Chamber At-A-Glance newsletter - MC recognition at event - Company name in Annual Dinner pro- - Maximum additional logo identification - Plus all benefits of the Silver Sponsorship gram, verbal recognition at event - Maximum PowerPoint recognition: logo, level - Follow-up “Thank You” in the Chamber At- A-Glance newsletter tag line, and storefront shots both inside SILVER - $1,000 and outside - Medium pre-event media advertising GIFT-IN-KIND - MC recognition at event - Medium logo identification - Recognition equivalent to value - Full page advertisement in the Annual Dinner program
- Follow-up “Thank You” in the Chamber At- A-Glance newsletter Financial Advice to fit the shoes you fill.
GOLD - $2,500 Step into Vanguard and discover a new level of service.
- Two tickets to the event (Approx. $250 value) 1-877-226-7957 - Complimentary drinks at the Champagne Reception - Major pre-event media advertising - Major logo identification - Major PowerPoint recognition: logo, tag Consumer Lending/Mortgage Services line, and storefront shot x x Ag/Commercial Services - MC recognition at event x Wealth Management Services - ½ page advertisement in the Annual Din- x Deposit Services
ner program Member focused, serving 11 communities. - Follow-up “Thank You” in the Chamber At- www.vanguardcu.mb.ca Your Credit Union. A-Glance newsletter
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 15
Financial Advice to fit the shoes you fill.
1-877-226-7957
www.vanguardcu.mb.ca Your Credit Union. McCRIMMON SCORES 201011BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR By Jordan Thompson
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce has found their Business Person of the Year for 2010-11 in former junior hockey player and current owner and general manager of the Brandon Wheat Kings, Kelly McCrimmon. At the time McCrimmon was presented with the award, he was also the club’s head coach, but has since stepped down from that position, passing the torch to Cory Clouston beginning with the 2011-2012 season. McCrimmon’s journey with the Wheat Kings began in 1979, when he first donned the black and gold jersey as a player in the Western Hockey League (WHL). After two seasons with the Wheat Kings, McCrimmon attended the University of Michigan, where he received a business degree. “From there, my plans were to farm,” Mc- Crimmon says. “I had grown up on a farm in Saskatchewan, and my thoughts all along were that I would continue to do that.” But it wasn’t long before McCrimmon found himself returning to the sport and franchise that he loved. “I had an opportunity to come back to Brandon in 1988, and I’ve been here ever since,” he says. “I was fortunate to have some people show confidence in me as a person, and I was named general manager of the Wheat Kings when I was 28 years old. It’s pretty uncommon, but it was a real fortu- nate break for me, and an opportunity that was pretty important.” In 1992, McCrimmon became a minority owner of the WHL franchise, along with ma- jority owner Bob Cornell. “Bob and I had worked together right from when I first got involved with the team again, right through to 2000, when I bought the remainder of the team.” From there McCrimmon also coached a few years before spending some time work-
16 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 ing as strictly management. Ultimately he would return to the head coaching position in 2004, holding it for seven years until step- ping down in 2011. While it’s not unusual to see one person take on the role of an owner and general manager of a WHL franchise, McCrimmon was somewhat of a rarity in filling the head coach slot on top of his other two manage- ment positions. While it almost certainly created a hectic schedule for McCrimmon, not only has he been successful in all three positions, but he says he loved wearing all three hats. “I enjoyed doing things that way, and we’ve been successful that way,” McCrim- mon says. “The one aspect I hadn’t antici- pated was returning to coaching. That was something that maybe wasn’t planned, but that was the way it worked out. At the same time, I had very capable people everywhere in the organization, so that also allowed me to do all three jobs.” While McCrimmon doesn’t fill it anymore, the position of head coach is something that he continues to take very seriously. And as a former Wheat King himself, he can’t help but find inspiration and motivation in the way he was coached during his time as a player. “Dunc McCallum was coach when I played, and he’s widely regarded as one of the top coaches in the WHL. He was really just such a respected person, and it was re- ally valuable to play under him.” “What carried itself forward even more was the pride the players had in playing for the Wheat Kings. That’s something I’ve al- ways really maintained and feel strongly Workplace Injuries Are about. Players are proud to represent our city and to represent the Wheat Kings.” In both 1995 and 2010, McCrimmon was PREVENTABLE honoured by the WHL with the Executive of the Year award, leading up to his 2011 dis- tinction of receiving the President’s Award For more information on preventing injuries visit for Business Person of the Year on behalf of www.safemanitoba.com the Brandon Chamber of Commerce. “It’s a great honour,” McCrimmon says. “It’s very humbling when you look at the names of the people who have won it in the past, and the respect I have for those people. To be mentioned in that same context really makes the award special.”•••
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 17 ADVISING THE COMMUNITY The Business Builder of the Year
By Shayna Wiwierski
Photo by Brandon Photographics Fotosource.
Winning the Business Builder of the Year 2010-11 Business Builder of the Year recipi- award from the Brandon Chamber of Com- ent. merce is special in its own right, but being the Collyer is a partner in the accounting firm first woman to win it makes it extraordinary. of Duncan Sabine Collyer Partners LLP (DSCP “I am the first woman to receive this award LLP) where she provides management serv- and this makes me doubly proud. As a ices. She recently retired from public practice College and receiving her CGA designation woman in business I sometimes felt , and this after DSCP LLP sold its Brandon and Boisse- in 1984. may be a generational thing only, that I had vain offices to BDO Canada LLP, where she “It seemed like a good idea at the time [to to work that little bit harder to be perceived worked for a year to help in transitioning the become an accountant]. I went back to com- as a professional, able to provide customers clients. munity college in 1977 and really liked the with the advice or solutions they needed. Collyer started her career in 1979 after accounting portion of the course. I had a So I did work hard,” says Judy Collyer, the graduating from Assiniboine Community friend who was a CGA and he recommended
HARVEST SALVAGE CO. LTD. 5150 Richmond Ave. E, Brandon MB, R7A 7P9 0ARTS 3ERVICE NEW & USED PARTS FOR COMBINES, TRACTORS & SWATHERS Parts are checked by heavy duty mechanics. All engines, transmissions and gear boxes are checked and rebuilt if necessary. Check out our low shop rates for service. 1-866-729-9876 0HONE s WWWHARVESTSALVAGECA www.bmce.ca
® LIBERTY D[_]T_ GELC_VE TAX 47 and 56 Seat Passenger Coaches Equipped with AC | DVD | VCR | Clean Washrooms SERVICE Motor Coach charters in Canada and the USA for all occasions Professional drivers at reasonable rates “TM owned by JTH Tax, Inc., used under license” Phone (204) 571-0231 | www.brandonbuslines.com Marilynn R Blair Franchise Owner 256-10th Street Brandon, Manitoba R7A 4E8 Phone: (204) 727-4225 | (204) 725-2088 | Fax: (204) 725-4979 Email: [email protected] Toll Free: 1-800-818-0114
18 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 I continue on with my studies. When my kids others. She has also been the recipient of accounts. You were part of building busi- both started school I went back to work and the CGA of Manitoba Meritorious Service nesses.” registered in the CGA program studies. I Award in 1995, the Fellowship Certified Entrepreneurs, those whom she helped graduated in 1984 and became a partner in General Accountant (FCGA) award in 1999, the most, have a special place in Collyer’s the firm in 1988.” and a Woman of Distinction award in 1999. heart, not only because her son Michael The 60-year-old Brandonite who plans on She credits her latest award, the Business owns his own business, but because of the fully retiring in the next few years started off Builder of the Year award from the Brandon countless businesses she saw grow from at DA Sullivan and Associates in 1979. In Chamber of Commerce, to her legacy in the small shops to successful companies. 1984 the firm changed its name to EPR, an community. “I love the opportunity to be an advisor association of CGA firms across Canada who “I’ve been around here forever. We had a to entrepreneurs. When they were success- were in public practice. In 2005 the firm very successful firm and in my age group, I ful we were successful. It was exciting to be again changed its name to DSCP LLP and in think because I’ve been around here for so part of the planning and assistance in mak- January 2010 the firm sold its Brandon and long you knew the people and you got the ing them successful.” ••• Boissevain offices to BDO Canada LLP, one of Canada’s largest accounting firms with the national head office located in Toronto and a number of regional offices in Mani- toba. McCallum Jewellers Aside from work, Collyer has also been in- Brandon Shoppers Mall volved in a number of organizations and 1540 - 18th Street boards. Most notable are the Westoba Brandon, MB R7A 5C5 Credit Union Board, the Brandon Economic P: (204) 725-4367 Development Board, the Certified General F: (204) 727-1457 Accountants board, all in the ‘90s, and the E: [email protected] Brandon Regional Health Authority Foun- “WE'D LOVE TO BE PART OF YOUR HAPPILY EVER AFTER” dation Board for the last 10 years, among
Canadian Linen & Uniform Service
“PEOPLE YOU CAN COUNT ON” www.prairiecoachcharterservices.cawww.prairiecoachcharterservices.ca
147 - 12th Street | Brandon,Brandon, MB | R7A 4L4L88 P: 204.727.5215 | E: [email protected]@westman.wave.ca Rob Martin TOLLTOLLL FFREE 398 Park Ave., Brandon, Manitoba 1.877.835.95051.877.8335.9505 Service Center Manager P 726-0283 F 726-0784
STUART OLMSTEAD Harry Keen Exclusive Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan Agent for Brandon and the Westman area :H·UHPRUHWKDQMXVWPXIÁHUVDQGEUDNHV P: (204) 834-3193 | [email protected] | www.chambers.ca 801 - 9th Street Ph: (204) 727-0020 Brandon, MB R7A 4B3 Fax: (204) 728-9378 “ Whether your business is big or small, we cover them all !”
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 19 TOWING THE LINE OF SUCCESS
Jason and Angela Schaffer.
The 2010-11 Entrepreneur of the Year Award Recipient: Accel Towing
By Daniella Ponticelli
Starting a business is never just a nine-to- five endeavour. It involves time, tenacity, If another tree falls and in Jason Schaffer’s case – trucks. Seven years ago, Schaffer decided to leave his job in the forest, as a licensed electrician to start Accel Tow- ing: a 24-hour emergency towing com- do your customers care? pany run out of his home office. “I love trucks,” said Schaffer, who had towed for another company before start- ing his own. “I knew I had a passion for it, so I decided to give it a go.” Yes they do. Today Accel Towing & Transport Ltd. is the Brandon Chamber of Commerce recip- ient of the 2010-11 Entrepreneur of the Year Award; an honour Accel was nomi- nated for by fellow members. But it wasn’t an easy ride for the starting businessman. It began with Schaffer and his tow truck. It was up to him to run everything – taking calls, dispatching, and driving the trucks. Working from home, Schaffer had few peaceful nights. 204-725-3588 204-489-8022 Within the first two years Schaffer was www.cranesteel.com able to hire more drivers; but after-hours Steel… the most recycled material in the world. dispatching remained his job, and phones don’t rest in the towing business.
20 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 “It really is a 24-7 job,” said Schaffer. lasting relationships with them,” said “This is the type of business that wouldn’t Schaffer, who looks forward to the future survive without that perseverance.” of his company. But he wasn’t without support – Schaf- And while the company continues to fer’s wife Angela provided accounting gain valued new customers, Schaffer services for the start-up business and thanks those who believed in him from helped take calls while maintaining a full the start. time job. Schaffer said at first Angela “did- “We’ve had customers who have been n’t like the idea of a 24-hour business.” with us from the beginning,” said Schaffer. Once the company began growing, how- “Without them, the business wouldn’t ever, Angela left her job to take on a full- have run.” ••• time position at Accel. She is now an equal partner in the company, and Schaffer be- Thanks, Light Medium & Heavy Towing lieves “she is truly one of the biggest cor- I appreciate Local & Long Distance Hauling your nerstones of this business.” business! And it’s a business that does more than just move vehicles. Schaffer started Accel Towing for the “everyday vehicle owner” dealing with accident towing, incidents on • Hot Shot Service the highway, and inconveniences such as • Lockouts • Tire Service keys locked in vehicles. With that, heavy Ltd. • Gas Delivery • 12 & 24V Boosting equipment transportation — including Brandon, MB • Car Carrier • Winching & Recovery moving anything from a boom lift to an • On-Site Thawing office building – became a large part of We Specialize In Customer the business. The company was con- Satisfaction! tracted by Manitoba Public Insurance to assist in emergencies in Brandon and the surrounding area; and the majority of au- tomobile manufacturers rely on Accel Towing to provide roadside assistance for their customers. The City of Brandon has AIR RIDE - TILT DECK DIVISION contracted the business to aide its public • 55 TON Sliding Axle Tilt Trailer works and city police. • 40 TON Sliding Axle Tilt Trailer • 13 TON Single Body Tilt Deck “It kept on growing and I needed more • Overdimensional Loads space,” said Schaffer, who eventually left • Office Trailer Relocation • Low Bed Service his home office for a place in Brandon with Transportation Of... a large compound area. Business has been • Machinery & Equipment on the upslope for the tow truck com- • Skid Shacks & Containers pany; Schaffer’s fleet now includes 22 units and 20 staff with dispatchers and CUSTOM HAULING FLATDECK SERVICE drivers. SPECIALTY SERVICE “We have an incredible staff – they are so proud of what they do,” said Schaffer. brandon 940 douglas st 728-2580 Experience is diverse within the group, and Schaffer prides them on bringing “a different view of the towing industry” to Fax Number: 728-2522 HOURS email: [email protected] Accel. The hard-working owner couldn’t say enough about those who have helped Roadside Accel Towing get to where it is today. Service “The Chamber has put us in contact FOR VEHICLE & PERSONAL ARTICLE RELEASES - OFFICE HOURS MON-FRI 8:30AM - 5PM (CLOSED HOLIDAYS) with other businesses, and we’ve created
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 21 GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY Business Excellence
Over 15 Award Winner: Frank Arndt. Myitsource.ca By Daniella Ponticelli
What began as a one-man operation, “Frank’s Computers” has now In 2011, myITsource.ca was nominated by customers for the Bran- become one of the Westman area’s most prominent computer serv- don Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence over 15 (employees) ice companies. Today, myITsource.ca supplies individuals and busi- award, an award Arndt was honoured to receive. nesses with the latest retail items and a promise to support the prod- “It’s nice to hear that what we do means a lot to our customers,” ucts it sells. It’s a company whose success is rooted in teamwork and said Arndt. “This award is a testimony to what we do every day, and community. we’re very thankful.” In 1992, Frank Arndt started as a soldier for the German govern- Arndt said the goal was always to simplify the customer’s life; in an ment where they situated him in Shilo, Manitoba. In 1995, after his age where there is a gadget for everything – service support can be service was up, Arndt decided to stay in Brandon and with an in- found in one place. vestment of $5,000, bought his first computer system. “We know that when a computer goes down, an employee is “I bought one, sold that; bought two, sold that; then I bought three down; when a server goes down, the company is down,” said Arndt, – so it grew slowly,” said Arndt. whose myITsource.ca team consists of 33 employees (only two part- After five years of working two jobs and long hours, Arndt was time). A typical day includes handling walk-in traffic where the on- profiting enough to hire his first employee. Arndt’s first team con- site team can troubleshoot for customers. There are service techni- sisted of three people, until two of Arndt’s competitors closed and cians on-hand who drive out to service IT equipment. The myIT- he hired an entire service team. source.ca team maintains the same company standard, and Arndt “We went from three to six employees, then from six to 12 em- finds his qualified employees within the community. ployees in a day,” said Arndt, who took on the displaced servicemen. “Most of our technicians come from the two year Technician Pro- It paid off – with heightened demand for computer service, Frank’s gram at [Assiniboine Community] College,” said Arndt, who also pro- Computers was taking calls around the clock. The increase in cus- vides work experience to students in the program. tomers gave the company the boost it needed, with the community More employees meant more space, and two years ago he relo- propelling its growth. “One of the biggest reasons why we are where we are today is be- cated his business to a larger premise on Pacific Avenue in Brandon. cause of the way we treat our customers.” “I thought I had all the space in the world,” he said, but the com- pany kept growing and sure enough another building was found to house the Warranty and TV Contractor Department. The growth has led Arndt to consider a long-time dream of his: an ownership profit- sharing model for his employees. “I want this to be more than a job – a career.” And while the IT world isn’t slowing down, Arndt takes time to give back to the community – and encourages employees to do the same. “We set aside time during the week and the month – it doesn’t have to be something they do just before or after work,” said Arndt, who says that MyITsource.ca employees are involved with various boards including the United Way and the Lion’s Club. “The city has treated us really well and has helped us grow – it is part of us to give back.” •••
22 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011
THE ‘FAIR’EST OF THEM ALL Business Excellence Under 15 Award Recipient: The Provincial Exhibition of Manitoba By Daniella Ponticelli
Since its incorporation in 1882, Brandon, Exhibition of Manitoba, a non-profit organ- “Lots of kids these days haven’t stepped Manitoba has supplied the Westman area ization since its start in 1882, which remains [foot] on a farm – so we bring the farm to with entertaining fairs. The Summer Fair a business whose product is education. them,” said Oliver, adding that a list of facts began it all – showcasing agriculture in an “The idea behind the fairs is that people no longer works to get the point across. The get educated before they know it,” said enticing manner and bringing together staff create interactive events at the fairs in Karen Oliver, general manager of the Manitobans from rural towns to celebrate a order to bring in people outside of the com- Provincial Ex for eight years. Oliver is one rich farming community. Today, Brandon munity. of eight full-time staff members who work plays host to three large fairs; the Royal year-round to bring the magic of the fairs. “The economic impact is around $15 Manitoba Winter Fair, the Manitoba Sum- The organization’s mandate is to showcase million of new money into the Brandon mer Fair, and the Manitoba Livestock Expo. agriculture and promote community en- area,” she said, adding that the fairs pro- Behind the entertainment is the Provincial gagement and involvement. mote hospitality in the area. And while the
RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS & SERVICES Alarm Systems • Access Control Always Comfortable… Security Cameras • 2-Way Radios Always Charming. IP Telephone Systems O Free Continental • Trained personnel for all of your required jobs PLUS breakfast • We are locally owned! O Free DVD movies • We have great switch over rates - 6 months of free service! O Free wireless internet access • Friendly customer service O Fitness room, indoor pool, • No IVRS and outdoor patio O Guest laundry 728-8878 O Earn Lakeview Perks points 1880 - 18th Street N. See the Professional at: 712 Victoria Avenue East Brandon, MB (204) 728.1880 See Chris Sobchuk or Darren Hossack TF: 1.877.355.3500 www.allenleigh.ca lakeviewhotels.com
24 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 community has shown its commitment to the Provincial Ex through sponsorship and participation; the business community rec- ognized the non-profit organization with the 2010-11 Brandon Chamber of Com- merce Business Excellence under 15 (em- ployees) award. “It’s really rewarding to receive this vali- dation from the business community,” said Oliver, who feels that sometimes non-prof- its are isolated. “Our product is different, but it is so impactful.” Each event takes considerable planning and execution in order to pull off the large scale shows. The Royal Manitoba Winter Fair is the flagship of the Provincial Ex with the largest economic impact by drawing the biggest crowd from outside of Brandon. The Royal Fair, that hosts human and equine guests, treats spectators to a week-long event so prestigious that Queen Elizabeth ll granted it patronage in 1970. The Manitoba Summer Fair was the orig- inal event, starting in 1882. With a more re- gional attendance, the Manitoba Summer Fair focuses on midway and fun, drawing younger spectators. The final event of the exhibition year is the Manitoba Livestock Expo; a show heavily focused on agriculture Providing quality and livestock with a large educational as- pect. education for 50 years. The Provincial Ex’s three events require WWW.ASSINIBOINE.NET long hours and a call for volunteers to do- nate their time. Luckily, Brandon has al-
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 25 Summer Fair Composite.
ways proved to be a motivated commu- A participant in the show jumping at the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair. nity. “They believe in the importance of this organization and the importance of its benefit to Brandon,” said Oliver, who con- tinues to be rewarded by the outpour of volunteers. “The volunteers are the horse- power behind the events.” The Provincial Ex staff has a strong sense of community and remain motivated in a business that Oliver believes requires a calling. “Non-profits are historically known for long-hours and weekends at the office,” she said. “But we have a lot of fun, and we do it for the experience and the people.” •••
Greg Hutsal CAIB Dick Agencies Insurance Brokers
YOUR SOURCE FOR QUALITY EMPLOYEES B – 435 Rosser Avenue Brandon, Manitoba R7A 6S2 204-727-6481 710-3rd Street | Brandon, Manitoba | R7A 3C8 Phone P: (204) 728-9594 | F: (204) 725-0105 Fax 204-727-1454 E-mail: [email protected] www.dickagencies.ca
26 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 Commercial Servicei CentreCt
PhysiotherapyPhysiotherapy & SpSportsorts YourY r INJURYINJURY CCLINICLINIC Businessi s iss WorthW th it. it.
Visit withwith one ofof ourour ccommercialommercial lendinlendingg specispecialistsalists for the expeexpertisertise onlonlyy a proprofessionalfessional can GIVE US A CALL pprovide.rovide.
727.4753 1020 PPrincessrincess Ave,AAvve, 2nd Floor 1.1.877.WESTOBA877.WESTOBA westoba.com
ServingServing MManitobaanitoba anandd SaSaskatchewanaskatchewan JJuggernautuggernaut CComputersomputers anandd CConsultingonsultinng provides a wide rangeangenge of IT Consulting Services and Products to helpelpelp our customers exceed ththeireir IT requirements.s. ServerServer & NetworkNetwork InstallationInstallatioon | NetworkNetwork MaintenanceMaintenance VVoIPoIP PhPhoneone SystemsSystems | CustomCuustom SoftwareSoftware SolutionsSolutions WWebsiteebsite DesiDesigngn & MaintenanceMaintenance | Off-siteOff-site Data BackupBackup CUCUSTOMSTOM BUBUILTILT PC’PC’SS WWITHITHHANEX AN EXTENSIVETENSIVE 3 YEAR PPARTSARTS & LLABOURABOUR WWAWARRANTYARRANTY AATT NO CCOSTOST LLaptopsaptops & TabletsTablets | PrintersPrinters & PeripheralsPeeripherals | PartsParts & AccessoriesAccessories
13535 Industrial DriveDrive,, BraBrandon,ndon, Manitoba R7A 7S7S66 PP:: 204204-729-4911-729-4911 | FF:: 204204-729-4910-729-4910
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 27 FROM VHS TO DVD, HDMAX Productions Brings the Past Back to Life By Shayna Wiwierski
Your parent’s wedding video, your first born child learning to walk Among other things, the company recently covered the Manitoba - priceless memories that are caught on tape. Unfortunately it’s be- flood that hit Brandon hard in the spring and summer of 2011. They coming harder to find a VHS player to watch them. Luckily there is did a video with aerial shots of the region that put into perspective a company that can take those old tapes and convert them DVD so how the flood hit the city. The video ended up getting a lot of press you can share them with family once again. and MLA Drew Caldwell even congratulated the company on the HDMAX Productions, formerly called Home Video Studio, offers final product. everything from film production to home movie transfer to video “We did a 10 minute aerial video from Spruce Woods Park because and photo keepsakes and more. The Brandon business is owned by it was devastated, and the City of Brandon area. A lot of people were displaced from their homes and they didn’t know why. They saw the husband and wife duo Brian and Beverley Mitchell, with Brian han- water but they didn’t know how bad it was.” dling the creative side and Beverley doing the administrative work. HDMAX Productions also shot a high-profile event put on the by “We do a variety of services, 27 different services ranging from Brandon Chamber of Commerce for Chicago Bears defense lineman film production, green screen special effects, to tape transfer to Israel Idonije, who was born in Nigeria but grew up in Brandon. DVD, and transfer of home movies to DVD that we do in high-defi- Idonije, who is also well-known for his philanthropic foundation, the nition. Everything we shoot is in high-definition unless it is required Israel Idonije Foundation, received the keys to the city at the event by the client to do otherwise,” says Brian Mitchell, who adds that “He was the first person in Brandon to receive a key to the city. they have recently added photography to their already diverse He’s a philanthropist, a very decent man, and a large man [six-foot, repertoire of services. six-inches, weighing in at 270 pounds]. He came to Brandon from Nigeria, and his family settled here and are upstanding citizens. That was a highlight; we were proud to have contributed to that special Air Conditioning occasion.” Heating – Controls One of HDMAX Productions’ more popular services is tape to DVD Steam – Hydronics transfers, where people can take their old VHS or Beta tapes and Energy Management have them transferred to DVD. Electronics Cal Morrow “We had a couple from Minnedosa come in with eight- millimetre 24 Hr. Service tape and they wanted it transferred. It was of a cute little three-year-
Ph. (204) 725-8103 old boy and his mom caught him in the bathroom with her cos- Fax (204) 728-1068 metics and his face looked like Ronald McDonald with his blonde Shop (204) 727-1666 Commercial and Industrial Email [email protected] HVAC Sales and Services hair and his mouth all covered in red lipstick. She was having it trans- ferred to send to America’s Funniest Home Videos.” PERSNICKETY Furniture Refinishers
721 Assiniboine Avenue Brandon, Manitoba R7A 0G5 AUDIOAUDIO COCONFERENCINGNFERENCING Phone (204) 728-3974 Toll Free 1-800-705-7818 TELEPHONETELEPHONE HHEADSETSEADSEETS Email [email protected] RemanufacturedRemanufactured Telephones TTeelephones & EEquipmentquipmment TelephoneTTeelephone VoiceVoice RRecordingecording www.persnickety.ca BRANDON WINNIPEG P: 1.888.753.7300 P: 1.204.992.2229 GARETH BOYS E: [email protected] www.nrgteleresources.com
28 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 Mitchell says that he gets a lot of sentimental videos that people want to restore or make into a keepsake. One of their most popu- lar services is video keepsakes where clients can submit videos, photos, and audio and HDMAX will make it into a short montage of their life. These videos, according to Brian, are the most sentimen- tal service they offer. “A gentleman came in awhile ago who had been married in the 1940’s and had a reel of eight millimetre silent film that had been given to him recently by a friend who had been at his wedding film- ing the ceremony. For some reason the footage had been mis- Brian and Beverley Mitchell. placed and recently found. The gentleman had never seen this footage of his wedding and had us transfer it to a DVD for a first their families. You see it in the videos, you see the fun they have, time, viewing it decades later.” that’s the common thread; they are all very similar in the family’s It’s projects like these that make HDMAX Productions the com- outlook towards life. It’s something that’s kind of beautiful. We are pany it is today. Mitchell says that he hasn’t heard a single complaint in a business that we don’t need a complaint department.” from a customer, just tears of happiness, laughter, and joy, most of which always have a common thread. HDMAX Productions is located at 930 Lorne Avenue, Unit B in Bran- “Whether it’s tape transfers or film transfers, a common thread in don, Manitoba. For more information about the company and their almost all the clients that we see is that these people care about services, call 717-6300 or toll-free at 877-245-8235. ••• PDL PADDOCK DRILLING LTD. GEOTECHNICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL INVESTIGATION
BRANDON – WINNIPEG – SASKATOON 528 - 11th11th SStreettreet EEastast | BBrandon,randon, MaManitobanitoba | RR7A7A 77H4H4 2)#(-/.$ !6% %!34 s "2!.$/. -!.)4/"! s 2! 0 Phone:Phone: 204.725.4210204.725.4210 | FaFax:x: 204204.726.0866.726.0866 TollTTooll FFree:ree: 800800.931.1654.931.1654 | [email protected]@jmindustriesltd.ca GROUNDWATER & SOIL EXPLORATION 0(/.% F!8 CHAIN LINK FENFENCECE ‘SPECIALISTS’‘SPECIALISTS’ www.paddockdrilling.com
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 29 A SPOT OF GREEN IN BRANDON
By Shayna Wiwierski
In the east side of Brandon lies a gem that patio and outdoor living items, and much continuing to upgrade. The response has is as green as its name. more. been very good. We haven’t lost the reputa- The Green Spot, a garden centre and gift The Green Spot has been in business for 25 tion that was here and we have gained more shop located at 1329 Rosser Avenue East, years, where it was started by Herman and clients,” says Whetter who, prior to owning the boasts an impressive 30,000-square-foot Jean Vreeman. Bernie Whetter, the current company, worked in the nursery for a season. retail area with a 100,000-square-foot pro- owner of The Green Spot, took over owner- The retail area has been upgraded to duction area. Aside from the large collec- ship about four-and-a-half years ago. make it larger, and the layout of plants was tion of annuals, perennials, and nursery “The Green Spot had a good reputation altered to improve customer flow in the stock, they also carry an abundance of before; we have just continued on with that. store. They also created focal points like a other products including home and gar- We haven’t made major changes, just a lot of new pond area, and purchased shopping den décor, fashion items, accessories, food, minor changes in terms of presentation and carts which are something new to the shop. They are currently in the process of upgrad- ing some of the fixtures. Celebrating 80 Years of Business Another new feature the store has imple- mented has been a wedding registry for UNION SHOES those couples who want unique gifts. Family Owned & Operated Since 1929 “We work pretty hard at finding distinctive merchandise, so these are not items you would find any place other than at our spot. 618 Rosser Avenue, Brandon, Manitoba Hours: 9 AM - 6 PM (Monday - Saturday) We try to find unique stuff; different things Phone: (204) 727-2806 that people would enjoy having in their Email: [email protected] homes and gardens.” www.unionshoes.ca The Green Spot is open year-round with their busiest seasons at Christmas and from
30 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 May to June; however, this past year had a bit of a hiccup due to the flood, which made them shut down operations for 17 days. “It affected our sales substantially and I don’t know whether our customers waited Give yourself a promotion. The angular lines of the GLK are entirely eye-catching. But the GLK is until we opened or just didn’t plant. May not just about forward style. Standard 20" 5-twin spoke alloy wheels, aluminium roof rails, and our award-winning fourth generation 4MATIC™ wasn’t good weather so people reduced permanent all-wheel-drive system combine to deliver the highest stan- dard of agility, utility and safety. The GLK. You’ve never seen their gardening plans. We [enjoyed] a strong a Mercedes like this.
June so I suspect that a lot of the planting Visit us at mercedes-benz.ca/fleet to find a fleet program that didn’t come in May came in June.” that will fit your corporate needs. After 25 years, The Green Spot is still going strong and continues to be a popular out- door shop in Brandon. Whetter credits his hardworking and dedicated staff to their suc- cess. There is 10 full-time staff that works at the shop all year, and in the middle of Febru- ary they hire about 30 seasonal people who are there from that time until the end of June. “We have good people here. A lot of our staff returns every year; they’re chiefly The All-New 2011 GLK. women who have had their career and enjoy Starting from $42,900. coming here and getting their hands dirty. © 2011 Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc. Pretty much everyone who works here en- joys gardening in one way or another, and Mercedes-Benz Winnipeg, 2554 Portage Avenue at Moray, Winnipeg, R3J 0N8, (204) 667-2467, www.mbwinnipeg.ca that’s why they keep coming back.” •••
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 31 BRANDON HOSTS NORTH AMERICAN HORSE SHOW
By Daniella Ponticelli
This summer, the city of Brandon played host The Keystone Centre, owned by the Lead- lenge ahead – and neither was the team at to one of the largest equine shows in North ership Group of the City of Brandon, the the Keystone Centre. America. The Canadian National Arabian and Province of Manitoba, and the Provincial Ex- “I think it was timing and the commitment Half Arabian Championship Horse Show hibition of Manitoba, approached the or- from the City of Brandon and Province of boasted hundreds of horses from across ganization years prior to discuss the possi- Manitoba,” said Krieser. Once the decision North America, trotting into the Keystone bility of alternating the show between was finalized, the City and Province each Centre for the first time. The show, first her- Regina and Brandon. The Keystone Centre contributed $100,000 in order to assist the alded as The Arabian Horse Show, originated spoke to the organizers to have their show community-oriented event. And so began and was made legendary in Regina, in Brandon for 2012, and after officials the fast-track planning process. Saskatchewan. After 22 years, the organiza- viewed the Keystone facilities in March The centre rearranged all the bookings to tion behind the show, the Arabian Horse As- 2011, Brandon seemed to be the best fit for make room for the show that ran from Au- sociation, made a bold move – deciding in this year’s event – even under all the cir- gust 15 – 21. Then they began setting up March 2011, to bring the event to the Wheat cumstances. stalls, extras of which were outsourced from City that same year. “Brandon’s never had a show of this cali- Calgary, up to a month before the first guests “It has been quite the experience, working bre – this calibre of horses and number of were set to arrive. Outdoor stalls had to be with a tight time frame and having to ac- stalls,” said Bonnie Campbell, Interim Agri- set up to accommodate 250 horses that were commodate everyone,” said Jason Krieser, cultural Sales and Event coordinator. But the overflow for the facility. Not to mention, a sales manager and interim general manager Arabian Horse Association, with over 33,000 few hundred volunteers needed to help run for the Keystone Centre. members, weren’t deterred by the chal- the event.
32 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 “We needed hundreds of people, the show is run over six days, three shows a day, at two rings – it’s a lot of commitment, and MEET THE Brandon has definitely stepped up,” said Campbell. The show, which is complimentary WIRELESS EXPERTS to the public, boasts halter, riding, and jump- ing shows along with a trade exhibition and public viewings of the stalls. “They like to show off the horses, and peo- ple are encouraged to watch them groom the horses,” explained Krieser. The main goal of the week-long event was to provide a fun source of equine education for the public. But beyond seeing and learning more about the spectacular horses, the city of Brandon benefits with another large-scale local event that attracts show participants and visitors alike. Pictured from left to right: “On the forefront, we see the benefits for Connie, Kayla, Steven and Natasha the Brandon airport, getting a lot more traf- fic,” said Krieser, who also predicts more pa- TELECO is proud to be Brandon’s newest trons for local floral shops as participants go Rogers Authorized Dealer Store with the Product Experts all out to decorate their stalls. Krieser said who can help you choose the latest smartphones, that the event was expected to bring in be- touchphones and evaluate your current wireless plan. tween $5-to-10 million, but that the success And we’ll help you take advantage of Rogers expanded of the show rests on community response. Hi-Speed Network Coverage throughout Manitoba. “This is a trial year, for both organizations,” said Krieser, noting that Brandon has only Discover our Exceptional Customer Experience. signed on to do the 2011 show. Ultimately, NEW LOCATION NOW OPEN the response of the community, the input 1128 B - 18th Street from the Arabian Horse Association, and the (across from Keystone Centre) overall hosting will determine whether or 204-727-0100 not the show will return to the Wheat City. But the Keystone Centre has high hopes, and Krieser said the prospect of hosting large equine shows means changes to the facility to accommodate more horses. teleco.ca “We want them to know Brandon is here, ™Rogers and related names & logos are trademarks used under licence from Rogers Communications Inc. or an affiliate. © 2011 and we’re ready to go.” •••
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 33 LIFESTYLE PEOPLE Stream ‘n’ Wood is Still Riding Strong After 26 Years By Shayna Wiwierski
Some people go to the mall to hang out, others go to a restaurant, and a few go to We’ve set a place for you. Stream ‘n’ Wood, an outdoor and lifestyle clothing store known as much for its prod- ucts as its customer service. “What we are really known for more than anything is our customer service. We have strong relationships and because of that, we have some long-term customers. We sell a product that may be somewhat unique, but what separates us from every- one else is the way we treat our customers. We spend a lot of time merchandising and making our store look nice, and we get tons There’s a place for your next conference, convention or sporting of people who come down just to hang event in Brandon, Manitoba. With first-class event spaces, exceptional hotel choices, and friendly people, Manitoba’s second- out,” says Warren Murray, co-owner of largest city is first for hospitality. Whether you’re planning a retreat Stream ‘n’ Wood. for 20 or a convention for 2,000, Brandon First makes it easier to For Your Next Event, Think Brandon First. bring everything together to create a first-class event by offering Stream ‘n’ Wood, a retailer of outdoor 1-888-799-1111 expert assistance with site selection, accommodations and travel www.brandonfirst.com planning. You belong in Brandon. equipment and lifestyle clothing, is located at 135 17th Street North, Brandon. What started out as a small, 800-square-foot dream by Murray and his business partner Roland/Weir Lavern Popple in downtown Brandon soon turned into a reality with their 9,000- Realty & Appraisal square-foot shop off of 18th street. “We were fresh out of university and we both knew we had some entrepreneurial Complete Property Appraisal Services spirit in us. We were both outdoor-oriented; we like to do stuff outdoors like cycling, camping, canoeing, that sort of thing. That Ph.: (204) 727-7100 was the start,” says Murray. The store soon went from an outdoor-fo- Fax: (204) 727-1563 cused shop to more of a lifestyle one and the change has proved to be quite suc- [email protected] cessful as their current sales total is over $1.5 million, up from a mere $200,000 their first year. Stream ‘n’ Wood carries clothing Unit 30A - 1015 26th Street, Brandon, Manitoba R7B 2B9 brands like The North Face, Helly Hansen and Lolë; bikes from Giant and Specialized;
34 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 skis and snowboards from K2; Old Town ca- noes and kayaks, and so much more. “In Brandon there was nothing catering to everyday clothing in a better brand. You had your general stores like Wal-Mart, and men’s and women’s dress shops, but there was nothing that people would wear every day. Our store grew from suggestions from customers for clothing and now, most of our clothes are bought by ladies. We started off as a hard-core camping clothing outfit- ter but we don’t do that anymore; we are more casual now.” The store may be a huge success cur- rently, but because of the recent flood that hit Brandon, Murray and Popple were forced to close the store down for three weeks, which really impacted their sales – especially so since that same three weeks are also their busiest time in the summer. “It was a large hit for us, but being 26- years-old, we were able to weather it. We heard a lot from customers. Some found us +$5':22'/$0,1$7( when we were moved out [Stream ‘n’ Wood &25.7,/(6/$7( sold their bikes in the parking lot of the old Murray Chev Olds dealership] but when we FLOORING +$5':22'5(),1,6+,1* moved back in, we received lots of notes from people; lots of appreciation for what we do,” says Murray, who insists that the re- lationship he has with his customers is the foundation for what the store is today. “I look at our mailing list of people and we have 4,000 to 5,000 customers with whom we stay in regular contact through email. Tons of repeat business; we thrive on it. Ob- viously people are coming back to see us.” And it’s not just the customers that make the store special, it’s also the staff. Stream ‘n’ Wood currently has nine full-time em- ployees – including Murray and Popple – as well as a number of part-time employees. “We have great staff. We have had some long-term staff and a there is a great group with us. It’s the number one asset of our store,” says Murray, who also gives some credit to his business partner. “I’m still with the same partner after 26 years, it’s a rarity in business sometimes.” •••
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 35 CASH IN ON YOUR BUSINESS INNOVATIONS By Jason Boblinski, Meyers Norris Penny
Many businesses develop innovative ways to overcome everyday • Developing a new process or improving an existing process to problems, but did you know that some of your solutions could make it faster, more efficient, more precise, more economical, or qualify as research and development (R&D) and be eligible for a 35 more environmentally friendly. per cent refund from the Canada Revenue Agency? The Scientific • Creating a new product, or enhancing an existing product by Research and Experimental Development (SR&ED) Investment Tax resolving a technical challenge. These challenges may relate to longevity, robustness, corrosion resistance, dielectric strength, Credit Program provides cash incentives to Canadian businesses or other functional-related specifications. of all sizes and in all sectors to conduct R&D that leads to new or With over $4 billion a year in funding, the SR&ED program is the improved products or processes. largest single source of federal government funding for industrial For many people, R&D conjures up images of scientists in lab research and development. But to take full advantage of these coats but the SR&ED program applies to a great deal more. Many funding opportunities and the multitude of available provincial people don’t believe they will qualify, and as a result, it’s estimated incentives, it’s important that you work with professionals who that less than 15 per cent of the businesses that qualify apply for have the knowledge and experience to help you get the most these benefits. from the program. My background is as a professional engineer A wide range of activities are eligible for full or partial SR&ED and I work closely with Meyers Norris Penny’s (MNP) SR&ED team credits. These activities may involve: which consists of accountants and tax specialists. Together, we
COMPLETE LANDSCAPE DESIGNS CCONSULTATION SERVICES Pathways to Greatness! &
BY ZENITH PAVING
• Planting & Sodding • Bonded & Insured • Trees & Shrubs • Residential & • Ponds, Creeks, Waterfalls Commercial • Natural Stone, Patios, Walks & Planters • Retaining Walls / Allan Block / Barkman • Pavingstone Driveways, Walkways & Patios • Snow Removal
Superior Workmanship By People Who Care • www.alternativelandscapingltd.com
Contact us today for all your paving needs 2210 Maryland Avenue Brandon, Manitoba 108 Richmond Avenue E. Brandon, MB R7A 7G1 P. (204) 727-7289 P. (204) 728.3388 | F. (204) 727.3748 Toll Free. (877) 728.3388 F. (204) 727-7531 E. [email protected] TOLL FREE. 1-866-727-7289
36 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 can consult with you at any stage of the process to learn more about your business and identify potential SR&ED opportunities. These include helping you: Many businesses don’t Identify Eligible SR&ED projects. SR&ED is defined in any of realize that their current three categories: basic research, applied research, and experi- mental development. MNP’s advisors can help you determine research and development which projects and related costs qualify. Develop Accurate Project Descriptions. Capturing all the in- expenses may be eligible for formation you need when preparing your SR&ED claim can be a a 35 per cent refund from time-consuming process. A MNP advisor can assist you by devel- oping sound technical descriptions of your SR&ED activities and the Canada Revenue Agency. preparing any necessary returns and documentation to support the financial review. Review your SR&ED claims. If you prefer to prepare your own Strategic Tax Planning. SR&ED tax credits can have a signifi- claims, MNP can review your technical descriptions and financial cant impact on your bottom line, making accurate and compre- information to confirm they are complete and that all eligible ac- hensive tax planning especially critical. tivities have been identified. The potential savings through SR&ED tax credits can have a Train your Team. MNP can provide your staff with valuable in- measurable impact on your bottom line. If you think you might formation on how to identify eligible projects and activities, pre- be eligible, it’s well worth investigating. pare technical reports, and set up a control system for filing SR&ED reports and supporting financial data. MNP’s SR&ED team work closely with a wide range of businesses to Participate in CRA Reviews. Having your claim reviewed by help them identify SR&ED opportunities and maximize the value of the Canada Revenue Agency can be stressful. A MNP advisor will their claims. To find out what MNP can do for you, contact Shawn be there to help you prepare for meetings and provide support de Delley, CA, Regional Tax Leader with MNP at (204) 571-7672 or during discussions. [email protected]. •••
MNP is prproudoud ttoo supposupportrrt the BBrandonrraandon ChaChambermber ooff CCommerce.oommerce.
AtAt MNPMNP,, wwee uunderstandnderstand thethe power off communitcommunity.y.
LikeLike thethe ChamberChamber ofof Commerce,Commmerrcce, MNP is committed ttoo promotingpromoting a vibranvibrantt economic community inin Brandon by by helping localloccal businesses succeed. WeWe hahaveve beenbeen working wwithiith tthehe BrandonBrandon businessbusiness communitcommunityy for mormoree thathanan 65 years,years, assisting owneowner-r- managers rreacheach their businessbusiness and personalpersonal goals.goals. IIt’st’s knowingkiknowing youryour vision,viiision, youryour businessbibusiness andand you.you. TToo fifindnd out how MNPMNP can help yyou,ou, concontacttact Jeff Cristall, FCA RegionalRegional Managing PartnerPartner at 204.727.0661. 204.7277..0661.
AACCOUNTINGCCOUNTING › CONSULTINGCONSSULLTTING › TAXTAX 2204.727.066104.7277..0661 BrandBrandonon mnp.camnp.ca
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 37 ACC CAMPUS REDEVELOPMENT IN BRANDON TAKES NEXT
STEP FORWARD Erin Selby, Advanced Education and Literacy Minister for the Province of Manitoba. Investment Totals over $57 Million: Selby
BRANDON – Continued support for the redevelopment of the Assiniboine Community College (ACC) North Hill campus took an- other step forward with a $5 million investment towards campus infrastructure renewal and planning, Advanced Education and Lit- eracy Minister Erin Selby announced on June 15, 2011. This brings the total provincial funding in the new campus to over $57 mil- lion. “The relocation of ACC is a vision of future prosperity for this learning institution which is an integral part of western Manitoba, offering some of the very best post-secondary training in the province,” said Selby. “Our government is proud to have supported this state-of-the-art facility from the very beginning.” The campus infrastructure renewal includes improvements to roads, parking, bus routes, outdoor lighting, security, direction signage, and underground services such as sewer and water. Much of the infrastructure at the North Hill campus dates back to the days of the Brandon Mental Health Centre. The improve- ments announced will allow for current buildings and future cam- pus developments to operate with new and modern infrastruc- The campus infrastructure renewal ture, said Selby, adding the infrastructure planning work will allow for possible future development of campus facilities such as the includes improvements to roads, parking, Parklands Building. bus routes, outdoor lighting, security, The relocation of ACC to the former Brandon Mental Health direction signage, and underground Centre at its First Street location began in 2005. This saw the for- mer nurses’ residence transformed into the Manitoba Institute of services such as sewer and water. Culinary Arts which opened in September 2007. The province pro- vided funding totaling $7.5 million for Phase 1. LECTT will further increase this growing enrolment trend at the Phase 2 saw the creation of the Len Evans Centre for Trades and college as it has provided room for up to 1,404 students to now Technology (LECTT) at the former Pine Ridge Building with a enroll in a trades-based program, an increase of nearly 45 per cent provincial investment totaling $46 million. in trades capacity in Brandon overall. Since 1999, enrolment at ACC has grown by over 61 per cent to “2011 marks Assiniboine Community College’s 50th anniversary 3,744 students as of the 2009-10 academic year. The recent ex- of providing high-quality training in Manitoba,” said Mark Frison, pansion of new trades space at the North Hill campus through the president, ACC. “This site services plan marks an important step
38 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 Assiniboine Community College North Hill Campus. forward in planning for the further devel- opment of the North Hill campus which CONTRACT JANITORIAL will undoubtedly serve ACC well for the SERVICES & SALES next 50 years.” “The quality of programming being de- livered at ACC continues to be enhanced by this relocation and redevelopment,” said Jason Powers Selby. “We are providing new opportuni- General Manager ties to train more people to enter our skilled workforce and giving them that • Contract Cleaning Phone: 204 725 3749 chance in Westman.” • Post Construction Cleaning Cell: 204 724 2246 The continued relocation of the campus • Carpet Extraction Fax: 204 571 1224 will have a focus on energy efficiency and • Floor Care Email: [email protected] environmental stewardship, and will set the • Sanitation Supplies 1102 Rosser Avenue stage for future development of sustainable Brandon, MB R7A 0L7 buildings following the requirements of the Green Building Policy, Selby said. •••
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 39 Dayle Hughson, marketing director/ evaluator with Career Connections (left) doing an assessment with Christine Cameron.
FINDING GREAT EMPLOYEES Career Connections Inc.
Brandon’s Career Connections Inc. helps Dayle Hughson, Marketing director/evalu- Pro3000 Assessment. Developed for the workers make the right career choice and ator with Career Connections. “We have aerospace industry, this system walks a po- assists employers to find the best employ- over 300 business partners in the city, tential employee through various aptitude, ees for the job. ranging from small business to large com- interests, and ability assessments to deter- Career Connections Inc. is a non-profit panies, such as Maple Leaf Foods and Safe- mine what career choices a person may employment agency governed by a volun- way.” like and may be well suited for. teer board of directors providing services Hughson says the organization can have Career Connections also utilizes this tool for persons with barriers to employment a case load of 75 to 125 people at any at the high school level in rural school di- by helping them to obtain employment in given time, and in the last five years, 84 per visions to help students learn about po- the community. cent of those placed have stayed six tential career paths. The organization re- The staff works with employers to pro- months or more at the same job. cently completed a pilot program in south- vide them with great employees who will “That’s very good, and it’s mainly be- western Manitoba where Grade 10 stu- be an asset to their business. cause businesses have all been very sup- dents underwent the vocational assess- Finding the right career path, and how portive and are willing to give people a ment, then had the curriculum tailored to to get there, can be one of the hardest chance.” the career best suited to their interests and challenges in life. Career Connections of- The process by which Career Connec- aptitudes. This also helped determine what fers their services to those in need of a lit- tions assesses an individual's skill levels, future education they might need and tle help finding their way to the perfect po- and ultimately determines a selection of work experience placements were used to sition. the most suitable jobs for that person, is a develop some of the skills required for that “Brandon is a great community,” says tried and tested method called the Valpar field.
40 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 The process by which Career Connections assesses an individual's skill levels, and ultimately determines a selection of the most suitable jobs for that person, is a tried and tested method called the Valpar Pro3000 Assessment.
Hughson says a future goal of Career The organization has a mobile unit that offer training in such areas as Driver Train- Connections is to provide more of these travels all across Manitoba and Sas- ing, Customer Service, Interview Skills, and assessment services to Manitoba’s aborig- katchewan to help with assessments in the use of Assistive Technology in the inal population. rural areas that may not have easy access workplace. “There seems to be a higher rate of abo- to these types of services. “We try and offer a broad spectrum ap- riginal students not finishing high school, “I’ve been as far north as Thompson and proach, covering a person’s whole life,” she so we’d like to catch them early on and do as far west as Weyburn, Saskatchewan,” explains. “We want to help in any way we some career planning so they graduate says Hughson. can so people can pursue their desired ca- and don’t have to finish their Grade 12 She adds they’d also like to expand their reer path and employers can find great later on through an Adult Education set- pre-employment training services and employees.” ••• ting,” she states.
Please support the advertisers who help make YOUR SOURCE FOR QUALITY EMPLOYEES this publication possible. 710-3rd Street | Brandon, Manitoba | R7A 3C8 P: (204) 728-9594 | F: (204) 725-0105 E-mail: [email protected]
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 41 Index to Advertisers
Accel Towing & Transport Ltd. 21 Crane Steel Structures General Contrators 20 Minute Muffler & Brake 19
Allen Leigh Security & Communications Ltd. 24 Dick Agencies Insurance Brokers 26 MyITsource.ca MTS Connect Corral Centre 23 Alternative Landscaping Ltd. 36 Farm Credit Canada 39 Myphone.ca 7 Altus Geomatics Manitoba 11 Giant Tiger #410 11 NRG Teleresources 28 Apex Facility Services 39 Guild Insurance Brokers Inc. 8 Paddock Drilling Ltd. 29 Assiniboine Community College 25 Harvest Salvage Co. Ltd. 27
Atom-Jet Group 22 Hurl's Food Mart 39 Persnickety Furniture Refinishers 28
Behlen Industries LP 10 J & M Industries Ltd. 29 Prairie Coach Charter Services Ltd. 19
Benmarks Sound Reinforcement & Audio Visual 8 JRL Flooring 35 Precision Toyota Ltd. 12 Blue Moon Water 12 Jani King 6 Progressive Sanitation 12 Brandon Bus Lines 27 Juggernaut Computers 27 Roland Weir Appraisal Associates 34 Brandon Economic Development IFC Kelleher Cosmetic & Vein Treatment Clinic 8 TELECO Supply Co./ Rogers Communications 33 Brandon First 34 Lady of the Lake Shop & Cafe 27 The Group Insurance Guy 19 Brandon University OBC Lakeview Inns & Suites 24
Brandon Wheat Kings 16 Liberty Tax Service 27 Union Shoes 30
Burns Maendel Consulting Engineers Ltd. 27 Manitoba Entrepreneurship Training & Trade 39 Vanguard Credit Union 15
C.M.S. Services Inc. 28 Manitoba Public Insurance 9 Viscount Gort Hotel 13 Canada Moving 6 Maple Leaf Foods Inc. 8 Workers Compensation Board of Manitoba 17 Canadian Linen & Uniform Service 19 Mazer Group 12 West Fit Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic 19 Cando Contracting Ltd. 38 McCallum Jewellers 18 Westoba Credit Union Ltd. 19 Canexus Corporation 35 McMunn & Yates Building Supplies 11
Career Connections Inc. 26 Mercedes-Benz Winnipeg 31 Wheat City Roofing Ltd. 25
Cellular Communications Plus Ltd. 13 Meyers Norris Penny LLP 37 Zenith Paving Ltd. 36
A COMPANY AT WORK… BUILDING EMPLOYEES & OWNERS
Cando prides itself in providing the people throughout Canada and the opportunity for its people to build a US. The employee ownership program career with the company while benefiting gives employees an additional benefit from the advantages of ownership. for the work they perform. The program
Cando’s diverse business design offers has been in place since 1996 and is numerous prospective career paths for accessible to all Cando employees.
WWW.CANDOLTD.COMD
42 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 2011 Wherever you find Canadian agriculture, you’ll find FCC
Call the office nearest you: Brandon Dauphin Neepawa Portage la Prairie Swan River Virden
1-800-337-3232 www.fcc.ca
Small Business. Big Priority.
For help building your bottom line, visit us today. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or a business owner, we’ll help you access programs and services including business consulting, entrepreneurial workshops and training, financing programs, self-help business publications and much, much more. Contact us: Manitoba Entrepreneurship, Training and Trade Small Business Development & Canada/Manitoba Business Service Centre Room 131, 340-9th Street, Brandon, Manitoba R7A 6C2 Phone: 204-726-6250 l Fax: 204-726-6403 manitoba.ca/business l canadabusiness.mb.ca
2011 ••• Brandon Business Review ••• 43 Channing Smendziuk, DJ McCharles, 1st year, Psychology 1st year, Physical Education