May 2013 Inside this issue: GM’s Report Member Spotlight Annual Dinner Sponsorship President’s Message cont’d Events Recap Calendar of Events
CHAMBER at a glance
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a publication of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE The End of Another Term The Brandon Chamber of Commerce continues to be a strong voice for business in our community. We continue to be the voice of reason for fiscal responsibility as we challenge our local municipal government and local school board with fair taxation. We have to spend our local dollars efficiently and provide our citizens great value for tax dollars because they work so hard for that money in the first place. People brand the Chamber as the tax watchdog and to some extent that is true. There is no other voice for taxpayers in Brandon and we must continue to play that role. We just witnessed two very different budgets with the federal and provincial governments. Overall, the federal budget received a more favourable response from small business. They appear to be looking to make some tough choices, to trim their expenses and the fact that they are exploring reducing sick time is a positive step in reducing labor costs. The province certainly didn't get the same favourable response. The increase in
PST was a tough pill to swallow, especially in the retail and restaurant sectors. If the extra 1% of PST gets fenced and truly goes to core infrastructure, then there is some positives from that, but there is skepticism that money will get lost in general coffers. I hope we are wrong. We must also understand, as business owners we are dealt the hand we have been given, and we need to push forward with our competitive spirits. There are good reasons to set up shop in Brandon and area. Lets talk about those good things as we continue to forge ahead, while we continue to lobby our bureaucrats on more innovative and business friendly incentives to grow our tax base. This year I had four key initiatives. I touched on taxation and again the continued role we need to play. However, I wanted to focus on positive growth in the form of economic growth and how the Chamber can play a greater role in generating opportunities for our city. I wanted to focus on our skilled labor shortage. Nationally, we are going to be
“There are good reasons to set up shop in Brandon and area.”
Nate Andrews, Chamber President in a great competition for the people of tomorrow and we must find new ways to retain our people and to attract new ones in order to achieve our prosperity. I also chose to encourage spending more of our dollars locally, a great importance as small business continues to be benevolent in our communities, but we need consumer support to continue that role. We are moving the needle in many of these areas. In regards to economic growth, we are discussing opportunities and looking to replicate opportunities like we did with WestJet earlier in the year. Whether WestJet comes or not, the collaboration was invaluable with the Chamber partnering with the city to promote Brandon. We have too many connections in the business world and we have too many great minds, that not utilizing that powerful resource to grow our city would be a waste. I believe
FROM THE DESK OF...
GM’S REPORT
The Real Value in Your Brandon Chamber “When a company is active in its local chamber, it is doing the right thing not only for the community but for its own success as well” -The Shapiro Group It is that time of year again when the Chamber asks for your re-investment in our organization. We have long promoted ourselves at the voice of business offering valuable services to our members – leadership in advocacy, networking opportunities, workshops, and money savings benefits. Turns out, being involved in the Chamber is great for business. A 2012 national study, conducted by the Shapiro Group, revealed that consumers have a positive perception of businesses that are active in a local chamber. The study states “being active in the local chamber of commerce is an effective business strategy. It communicates to consumers that a company uses good business practices, is reputable, cares about its customers, and is involved in its community.” There are major benefits for small businesses, which represent the largest percentage of businesses in Manitoba and indeed our own membership, to be active in a chamber. According to the survey, when consumers know that a small business is a member of the
chamber of commerce, “the business enjoys a 49% increase in its consumer favourability rating, a 73% increase in consumer awareness, a 68% increase in its local reputation, and an 80% increase in the likelihood that consumers will patronize the business in the future.” Large businesses also benefit from their chamber connection with consumers indicating “they are likely to patronize the company more often, to express favorable opinions about the company, to know more about the company, and to buy the company's products” when they know the business is a chamber member. As with most things, what you put in is what you get out. To get the most of membership, you need to be an active participant. A key component of promoting and maintaining a positive consumer perception, according to the study, is ensuring “consumers know that a business is a chamber member”. “When consumers know that a business is a member of the local chamber, they are 44% more likely to think favorably about it”. Overall, consumers rated the local chambers favourably with 82% of respondents believing the chamber promotes jobs and a strong local economy.
It is clear that being a chamber member pays off! So, when you consider your Carolynn Cancade, investment in General Manager the Chamber this year, you can rest assured that not only do you benefit from our many services, just being involved with the chamber is great for business! An investment in the Chamber is an investment in your business!
Carolynn Cancade General Manager Contact Carolynn by email at gm@brandonchamber.ca Source: “The Real Value of Joining a Local Chamber of Commerce”– A Research Study To learn more: The study, commissioned by the American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE), in cooperation with the Western Association of Chamber Executives, www.chamberorganizer.com
Welcome New Members Silvertip Angler Promotions & Apparel
BrandonNow.ca
Westman Premier Homes
37 Aldrin Way Brandon, MB R7A 2T7 P: 204-728-1510 E: silvertipangler@gmail.com W: www.silvertipangler.ca
324-10th Street Brandon, MB R7A 4G1 P: 204-725-4159 E: brandonnow@mymts.net W: www.brandonnow.ca
Penncorp Life
Vionell Holdings Partnership
1514 Rideau Street Brandon, MB R7A 5B7 P: 204-573-3344 F: 204-728-1170 E: admin@westmanpremierhomes.com W: www.westmanpremierhomes.com
2140 Pembina Hwy Winnipeg, MB R3T 6A7 P: 800-670-1911 E: james.pollard@penncorp.ca W: www.penncorp.ca
18-1545 26th Street Brandon, MB R7B 2C7 P: 204-726-1681 E: vionellholdings@westman.wave.ca W: www.vhproperties.ca
HuSol Mobile Pressure Washing
Rolling Spokes
2 Woodsley Bay Brandon, MB R7B 4E4 P: 204-720-0178 E: support@husol.ca W: www.husol.ca
215-6th Street Brandon, MB R7A 3N3 P: 204-571-1260 E: rollingspokes@mts.net W: www.rollingspokes.com
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R&M Homes Ltd. 2010 Currie Blvd. Suite 9 Brandon, MB R7B 4E7 P: 204-573-5676 E: mark@randmhomes.ca W: www.randmhomes.ca
www.brandonchamber.ca
MEMBERSHIP
member
SPOTLIGHT The Chamber would like to introduce Silvertip Angler Promotions & Apparel, a local Brandon based business, serving the Westman area.
Description of the business: Silvertip Angler Promotions & Apparel is a full service supplier of branded products. If you wish to place your logo on a product or wearable apparel, we’ll efficiently source and supply quality options at a price that offers your organization outstanding value. Silvertip Angler prides itself on building “strategic partnerships” with those we do business with. We are much more than a simple supplier. We work proactively with our customers to assist them in securing the most effective branding opportunity possible by leveraging their promotional budget dollars. Whether you’re a non-profit; school; sports association; community organization; or corporate business; Silvertip Angler provides expert service, whether it is a one-time purchase; or helping you build a complete merchandise program. Our outstanding in-house Graphics department can update your old logo or develop an entirely new look for your organization. Fast, friendly, personalized service offering quality merchandise at competitive prices – that’s Silvertip Angler Promotions & Apparel.
Business goals: Silvertip Angler’s mission is to provide our patrons with the highest level of customer satisfaction possible by delivering efficient, reliable, personalized service with their promotional product and corporate apparel needs. By developing strong personal relationships, imagining innovative solutions and following the “golden rule” we strive to become a strategic part of your organization, allowing you to focus on your core business!
Business motto: “Allowing you to focus on your core business!” Silvertip Angler Promotions & Apparel has been in business for three years and is conveniently available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Give Barry Mymko a call at 204-728-1510 or email him at silvertipangler@gmail.com. Website: www.silvertipangler.ca
@BdnChamber
www.brandonchamber.ca
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EVENTS
Recognizing Excellence, Honouring Achievement, Celebrating Business!!
T
his year’s 130th Annual Dinner was a wonderful evening of great food, wine and socializing with friends and colleagues in the business community. Attendees also enjoyed a variety of local entertainment with emcee, Frank McGwire, KX96 radio host and three local bands, Honkin’ Chadillacs, Dagnabbit & Sister Reign. Kerry Campbell of C & C Construction was honoured with the Business Person of the Year award, recognizing his years of leadership and commitment to the Brandon community. We also presented awards to two businesses whose dedication to business and community make them leaders of Business Excellence. The recipients of this year’s Business Excellence awards were Webber Printing for a business with 15 employees or under, and to Alternative Landscaping for a business with over 15 employees. Congratulations to all our award recipients! A special thank you to our auctioneer of the evening, Bruce Curtis of Fraser Auction Services Ltd, the Annual Dinner Committee, and last but certainly not least our sponsors. This event would not be possible without the support that we continually receive. Thank you to our auction bidders who raised a generous $4025 Thank you to all those that attended our event, we hope to see you in 2014 at our 131st Annual Dinner.
Alternative Landscaping accepting their award from Chamber director Sharon Shepherd.
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Webber Printing accepting their award from Chamber director Todd Birkhan
Kerry Cambpell accepts the Business Person of the Year award from Chamber president, Nate Andrews
Having fun with the masquerade masks!
www.brandonchamber.ca
EVENTS
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce would like to thank all the generous Brandon businesses who supported our 130th Annual Dinner held on Friday, March 15th, 2013. Your sponsorship is truly appreciated!
PLATINUM
GOLD
SILVER PLUS Canad Inns Brandon MNP LLP MTS Connect Westoba Credit Union AFTER PARTY Mazergroup CHAMPAGNE Sunrise Credit Union
A BIG Thank you to the ANNUAL DINNER COMMITTEE Sharon Shepherd - West-Fit Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic Brad Danielson - Benmarks Katrina Sigurdson - The Party Professionals & Rental Co. Lynn Baker - Taylor Jackson Financial Chad Wallin - Joe Beeverz Bar & Grill Karla Dane - Meighen Haddad LLP Scott Dyke - RBC Royal Bank Heather Dodds—CARM Frank Arndt - Corral Communications | myITsource.ca Stacie Bourgeois - Westoba Credit Union
Thank you to all these supporters as well! Bruce Curtis (Auctioneer) Don Taylor (Piper) Beta Sigma Phi (Coat Check) Jordan Ludwig (Blessing) ACC Media Production Students (Award Videos) Seventy First Battery Twenty Five Twenty Royal Canadian Army Cadets (Program Handout) Samantha Van Meer (Photography)
www.brandonchamber.ca
Free Coffee, Snacks & Networking every Friday at the Chamber 10:00 - 11:30 AM
GET READY TO VOTE!
SILVER Brockie Donovan Ltd. Bloom Box Crane Steel Structures Ltd. Created 4u Guild Insurance Brokers Inc. Leech Printing Ltd. Remington’s Seafood & Steakhouse Sargent Lock & Safe Ltd. West-Fit Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic Zeke’s Quality Jewellers Ltd.
Delegates: Keep your eyes open for the 20132014 Brandon Chamber of Commerce Board of Director’s biographies and electronic voting.
BRONZE Burns Maendel Consulting Engineers Ltd. Brandon University CAA Manitoba Canexus Chemicals Canada Manitoba Public Insurance Vanguard Credit Union Limited Western Financial Group
The Chamber is the voice of business. Make your voice heard.
SUPPORTER Blinds by Anita Brandon Wheat Kings Dick Agencies Haven Salon & Spa Leon’s Furniture Superstore
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Working for you... (continued on page 6) (continued from page 1) we need each other. The private and public sector both have strengths and we need to maximize what each other can do and pull in the same direction when the opportunity arises. We will always share our differences, but it doesn't mean we can't make things happen when the timing is right.
I will still get to say a few words before my year winds up, but I wanted to reiterate how fortunate I feel to be part of this community. Can we be better? You bet, but we have a lot to be proud of. My challenge to you is to tell others about why it is good to be in Brandon and not why it is not. We'll keep working on fixing our weaknesses whether its through policy change, lobbying or advocacy but let's build on all the reasons we hang our
own hats in Brandon. Keep supporting the Chamber. It matters and only gets better with your support.
Nate Andrews Chamber President Nate can be reached by email at president@brandonchamber.ca
In respect to our skilled labor problem we have met with our educational bodies, such as our post-secondary educators in ACC and BU on the importance of matching our educational programs to fill our local business needs. We believe we're making some progress in those areas. We need to hear from businesses on what they need, how we can play a part in helping our educators produce those future workers. In respect to consumer spending, we currently have an ad hoc group working on a campaign that will bring awareness to many of the shopping opportunities we have right at our doorstep and those are just a few of the actionable items on the go. Selfishly, this year has been a tremendous experience for me. I, like many others, questioned how ready I was in assuming the responsibility of a position like the Chamber President. My comfort came in the people that I surrounded myself with. We have a great executive, board and staff that share a common vision going forward and that kind of support is empowering. We are always looking for new ways to enhance what is already a very strong Chamber and that is why we are who we are. We aren't satisfied with the status quo as business people and we want to be better. I have had more good comments than bad this year, and to those that gave me support and positive feedback it is much appreciated. To those that didn't agree with me, I wish I could have heard more of your feedback, because varying opinions also can be very beneficial.
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www.brandonchamber.ca
Chamber Events Review Aboriginal Job Fair Tuesday, March 12, 2013 The Brandon Chamber of Commerce partners with the Inter-Provincial Association on Aboriginal Employment (IANE) committee each year to host the Aboriginal Job Fair. This year’s fair was very well attended in the new Shoppers Mall location. Over 20 employers set up for a full day of meeting with job seekers. Thank you to sponsors, Westman Communications Group - StarFM/CKLQ and Shoppers Mall.
Champion of Agriculture Luncheon Wednesday, February 27, 2013 A very engaged crowd of over 200 attendees listened to Robert Saik’s presentation on science, technology and agriculture at the Champion of Agriculture Luncheon held at the Royal Oak Inn in late February. Saik is the founder and CEO of Agri-Trend Group of Companies. Thank you to luncheon sponsor, CGA Manitoba
State of the Province Luncheon Thursday, April 18, 2013
Top Left: John Quail, Chief Marketing Officer of Westman Communications Group Middle Left: Robert Saik, Founder & CEO of Agri-Trend Group. Bottom Left: Nate Andrews, Chamber President and Premier Greg Selinger.
Premier Selinger addressed a crowd of over 400 people giving his annual State of the Province address at the Keystone Centre. Chamber President questioned the Premier on provincial issues such as the announced provincial sales tax increase, property tax changes as well as infrastructure funding. Thank you to luncheon sponsor, Westman Communication Group
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
Sponsorship Opportunities Available
www.brandonchamber.ca
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2012-2013
MEMBERSHIP RENEWAL
Board of Directors Nate Andrews, President Guild Insurance Brokers Inc. Craig Senchuk, Vice-President Agri-Trend Business Management Todd Birkhan, Secretary/Treasurer BDO Canada LLP Cam Clark, Past-President CKLQ-StarFM Frank Arndt myITsource.ca/MTS Connect Corral Centre Denny Bouchard Mazergroup Daniel A. Burns Burns Maendel Consulting Engineers Ltd. Terry Carlisle Cando Contracting Ltd.
It is that time again! The 2013-2014 Chamber year is approaching fast , being kicked off with our first official event: the 24th Annual Golf Tournament! Please note that membership invoices will be sent out the first week of June via
EMAIL.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your invoice please contact the Chamber Office at 204-571-5340 or by email at internal@brandonchamber.ca
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
Calendar of Events 2013 State of the City Luncheon Thursday, May 16, 2013 Keystone Centre—UCT Room 11:30 AM—1:00 PM Sponsor: Brandon First
Presidents Luncheon & Changeover Thursday, June 6, 2013 Victoria Inn—Grand Salon 11:30 AM—1:00 PM Sponsor: Crocus Credit Union
24th Annual Golf Tournament Wednesday, June 12, 2013 Golf: Glen Lea Golf Course Dinner: Canad Inns Roadhouse Sponsor in part by: CGA Manitoba
www.brandonchamber.ca
Karla Dane Meighen Haddad LLP Jordan Ludwig Brandon Business Interiors Carla Milne MNP LLP Bonnie Nay-Draper Manitoba Entrepreneurship, Training & Trade Sharon Shepherd West-Fit Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic Chad Wallin Joe Beeverz Bar & Grill
Having a meeting? Member
Non Profit
Non-Member
Half Day—$48.25 Full Day—$69.50 Hourly—$16.00
Half Day—$26.75 Full Day—$48.25 Hourly—$16.00
Half Day—$64.25 Full Day—$85.75 Hourly—$33.25
We have the perfect place… The Chamber Boardroom
One 50” Flat screen Seating for 18
Chamber at a Glance is published six times per year by: The Brandon Chamber of Commerce 1043 Rosser Avenue | Brandon, MB R7A 0L5 Phone: (204) 571-5340 | Fax: (204) 571-5347 www.brandonchamber.ca
STAFF:
EDITING & DESIGN: Ashleigh Salo PRINTING: Leech Printing Ltd.
Ashleigh Salo, External Relations Coordinator 204-571-5344 external@brandonchamber.ca
Who we are: The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is an independent, membership funded, non-profit organization that represents Brandon business from the grassroots level. Our Mission: To encourage growth in the Brandon community by fostering a progressive business environment favorable to enhancing existing and attracting new business.
Carolynn Cancade, General Manager 204-571-5342 gm@brandonchamber.ca
Becky Farguson, Internal Relations Coordinator 204-571-5340 internal@brandonchamber.ca
www.brandonchamber.ca 8