November 2011 Inside this issue: GM’s Report Member Spotlight Events Recap Business Anniversaries Call for Nominations Business Books: Recommended Reading
CHAMBER at a glance
2 3 4-5 3 6-7 7
a publication of the Brandon Chamber of Commerce
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Entrepreneurism on the rise in Brandon
R
ecently the Canadian Federation of Independent Business and the Financial Post released their annual report on the top 100 Entrepreneurial Cities called Communities in Bloom. This year the report found Brandon to be in 37th place, a tremendous jump up from 2010 when we were ranked 65th. The top spots go to communities in Alberta and Saskatchewan.
into three common themes and then combines those findings into all-round scores. Mallett stated “Among the measures of entrepreneurship, we look for the size of their footprints in communities and how fast they are expanding; we look for their degrees of optimism for the future; and we look for tangible signs that local leaders are aware of the needs and contributions of business operators. Importantly, The Financial Post reported that unlike most ranking exercises, we Entrepreneurs create more than just make sure that we take into account businesses, they create communities. actual opinions and perspectives of Ted Mallett, vice-president and chief business owners within these economist of the CFIB said “What communities.” It is positive that defines an entrepreneurial person is a Brandon’s score moved in a positive matter of considerable debate. Beyond direction showing continued optimism. simply operating a business or taking risks, astute observers say that Entrepreneurship isn’t new to us. Our entrepreneurs also have a high community has continually tolerance for uncertainty and the demonstrated that type of courage to start building even before entrepreneurial spirit from the earliest getting control of all the necessary days of our community development, building blocks.” to today. The CFIB-Financial Post gathered data This may have been best based on 12 sets of statistics, put them demonstrated with our recent awards
during Small business week. Drew Mills was recognized for his determination and hard work with Millco Steel by being nominated and receiving the Business Builder Award. Derek Wychyshyn owner of Komfort Kitchen received the award for Entrepreneur of the year. Both individuals demonstrated a strong business sense and acknowledged the hard work and sacrifices that go handin-hand with the risks of business ownership. Once again we congratulate this year’s recipients. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business stated on their home page there is no question that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are Canada's engine of growth. After all, SMEs employ about 52% of all working individuals in the country. Businesses, whether they are located in urban or rural areas, play an integral continued page 6
FROM THE DESK OF...
GM’S REPORT
A Final Farewell...
T
his September I had the pleasure of attending the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting in St. John’s Newfoundland. This annual conference is always a pleasure to attend as it provides an excellent opportunity to attend workshops on items of national business interest and participate in setting Canadian Chamber Policy. As always, the event was well attended and very engaging. In the several days prior I also attended the Canadian Chamber Executives of Canada AGM. This annual forum allows Chamber Executives from across Canada to meet and network. This conference has proved very valuable as a networking tool to find out what new initiatives other Chambers in Canada are engaged in. As many of you already know this will be my last Chamber Article in my role as General Manager. On November 14th I
will take my role with the City of Brandon, tasked with developing policy. Looking back on my role within this organization over the past three and a half years, I have been extremely fortunate to have been offered such a fantastic opportunity to work with closely with so many of you. Over my time here I have been able to serve with five different Presidents (Lee Bass, Ron Cumming, Chris Griffin, PJ Crane, and Cam Clark) and numerous Board Members all which have served as mentors to me in the ways of leadership. I owe them all a debt of gratitude. I also have to thank my tremendous staff at the Chamber – Carolynn and Ashleigh who I know will continue to serve the Chamber and its members faithfully. And of course, you the member, without your support this strong and storied organization would not be here to serve the Brandon Community. Thank you for your support!
Although at the time I write this article I am unaware of who will replace me I am confident that the new General Manager will come into the role with a progressive board, experienced and able staff, and a strong membership. My sincerest regards and best of luck in the future!
Nathan Peto General Manager Nathan can be reached by email at gm@brandonchamber.ca until his last day on November 10th
Welcome New Members Tokyo Zone A 1700 Pacific Avenue Brandon, MB R7A 1A5 204-728-3362 Ymk171@hotmail.com
Joe Beeverz Bar & Grill 20 – 1300 18th Street Brandon, MB R7A 6X7 204-726-5637 whatsup@joebeeverz.com
Scotia McLeod 1003 Rosser Avenue Brandon, MB R7A 0L5 204-729-3386 Len_schneider@scotiamcleod.com
Sun Life Financial 2B, 136 – 11th Street Brandon, MB R7A 4J4 204-571-4563 Scott.dyke@sunlife.com
Photography by Dale Unit B-685-10th Street Brandon, MB R7A 4G5 204-729-0789 dale@photographybydale.ca
Spirit Staffing & Consulting Inc. 3A-457 – 9th Street Brandon, MB R7A1K2 204-571-0798 charlotte@spiritstaffing.com
Membership Matters…Get Others Involved! Tell us about a business that would benefit from Chamber membership. 2
Workers Compensation Board Brandon Unit 1 – 457 9th Street Brandon, MB R7A 1K2 droberts@wcb.mb.ca Gulliver’s Grill 1630 Park Avenue Brandon, MB R7A 1S5 204-728-5930 gulliversgrill@westman.wave.ca Odanah Trucking Line Inc. Box 20121 Brandon, MB R7A 6Y8 204-725-8950 Ken@odanah.com Jim Nay 14 Wakomma Drive Brandon, MB R7B 3A4 204-729-5278 tjnay@mymts.net
www.brandonchamber.ca
MEMBERSHIP
member
SPOTLIGHT
G
ulliver’s Grill has been operating in Brandon for over 10 years. It is locally owned and operated by Brandon native Scott Bender and brother Craig Bender. They serve a world wide variety of lunch, dinner and snack items. They are well known for their open fire forno oven, not to mention their selection of mouthwatering, homemade desserts. Their dining room
allows for both small and large parties offering something for every need. Gulliver’s strives for top quality meals at reasonable prices. Their motto is:
“Do Whatever it Takes” Gulliver’s Grill can be reached at (204) 728-5930or by email at gulliversgrill@westman.wave.ca.
Business Anniversaries Congratulations on reaching a milestone anniversary! Cab Clothing & Accessories Inc. Apex Management Group Minute Muffler & Brake The Learning Company / Robertson College K.K. Penner & Sons (Westman) Inc. Meadowview Autobody & Glass myITsource.ca West-Can Human Resource Solutions Inc. World of Water
5 years 10 years 15 years 15 years 15 years 15 years 15 years 15 years 20 years
Pantages on Park Physio First Crane Steel Structures Ltd. D & B Sprinklers Trails West Motor Inn Shoppers Mall Murray’s Auto Group Quintex Services Ltd. Christie's Office Plus
25 years 30 years 30 years 30 years 30 years 40 years 85 years 100 years 130 years
If your business has an upcoming milestone anniversary let us know! Call the Chamber at 571-5340.
www.brandonchamber.ca
3
EVENTS 2011 Election Forums Manitoba BOLD Breakfast & Leaders Forum September 12th Local Candidates Forum September 21st
W
ith a provincial election slated for early October, the Brandon Chamber of Commerce wanted to help members make an informed choice. The Chamber organized several events throughout September so member could gain information and insight on the candidates, election issues, and party platforms. At the Manitoba BOLD Breakfast & Leaders Debate on September 12th, attendees heard from the Winnipeg and Brandon Chambers of Commerce on BOLD issues that were of concern to members, followed by a live radio broadcasted Leaders Debate. Thank you to our sponsors BDO Canada LLP . On September 21st , in partnership with the Brandon Sun, Westman Communications Group/CKLQ/Star FM and Brandon University Student University, we hosted the Local Candidates Forum where we heard from local candidates running for Brandon East and Brandon West as they answered questions from our panel.
Brian Kayes, Director of Emergency Management for the City of Brandon.
Post-Flood Update Luncheon September 22nd, 2011
B
rian Kayes, Director of Emergency Management for the City of Brandon addressed a crowd of over 230 attendees at the September 22nd ‘Post Flood Update Luncheon’. Mr. Kayes gave an informative presentation on the ‘Assiniboine River High Water Event 2011’, which outlined the tremendous preparation that was involved and the challenges that occurred. Congratulations to Alex Burgess on winning the door prize of a Callaway golf bag, putter divot set, towel, ball & tees courtesy of our luncheon sponsor, Sunrise Credit Union Ltd. Also thank you to our booth sponsor InterProvincial Association on Native Employment (IANE)
A crowd of approx. 150 attended the Local Candidates Forum on September 21st.
BA5: Westman Communications Group October 19th, 2011
A
pproximately 75 attendees came to enjoy the Business After 5 event celebrating the newly renovated building of Westman Communications Group on Park Avenue. Guests were given tours of the new facility and afterwards a wine & cheese reception. It was a wonderful evening of networking and socializing; thank you to Westman Communications Group for hosting this event! Congratulations to Todd Burton for winning the draw for a Blackberry Playbook!
4
Westman Communications Group staff helped serve attendees.
www.brandonchamber.ca
EVENTS
Chamber Friday Coffee Join us Fridays 9:30am—11:00am for casual networking over free coffee and treats! Great networking event— Stop by and see for yourself!
MAKE SURE YOUR BUSINESS IS IN THE MEMBERSHIP ROSTER! Is your company info up to date? We are currently working on the 2011-2012 Membership Roster and we want to make sure that we have your most current business information. If you have changed your address, contact information or delegate contact please let us know! Call 571-5340.
Have you paid your membership dues? Chamber Office 1043 Rosser Avenue
Membership dues must be paid by November 15th for your organization to be included in the 2011-2012 membership Roster! Not sure if you’ve paid? Call the Chamber office at 571-5340.
Small Business Week ‘Kick Off’ Luncheon October 17th, 2011
O
n October 17th, local business was celebrated at the annual Small Business ‘Kick Off’ Luncheon. Several businesses celebrating milestone anniversaries were recognized for their years in business (see page 3 for a list of business anniversaries). Two local business leaders, in particular, were recognized for their contributions and successes by being presented awards for Business Builder of the Year and Outstanding Entrepreneur of the Year. Congratulations to Drew Mills and Derek Wochyshyn! Drew Mills of MillcoSteel was the recipient this year’s Business Builder of the Year. Drew shared his appreciation to those that helped him be a success over Chamber President Cam Clark, presents the the past 25 years of business stating that he “was surrounded by competent pro- Business Builder Award to Drew Mills (left). fessionals, a friendly banker and a good friend and with that anyone can succeed in business.” Komfort Kitchen was the recipient of this year’s Outstanding Entrepreneur of the Year. Derek Wochyshyn, owner and Red Seal chef, praised his farm upbringing for “bringing to life” the value of nutritious foods made from scratch. From that idea was born Komfort Kitchen, which has grown into “the egg-slinging, coffee-guzzling, from scratch comfort food place it has come to be today."
Visit our website to see more pictures of Chamber events! Use your smart phone to scan below!
Thank you to our luncheon sponsor Manitoba Entrepreneurship, Training & Trade. Chamber President, Cam Clark presents the Outstanding Entrepreneur of the Year Award to Derek Wychyshyn (left).
www.brandonchamber.ca
5
Working for you...
President’s Remarks (continued from page 1) part in the economic and social wellbeing of communities. In this study, Canadians can gain a better understanding of the triumphs and hardships of small business ventures. It may seem obvious, but the surest signs of an entrepreneurial hot spot are the presence of a high concentration of entrepreneurs and a high business start -up rate. It is also important that business owners have high levels of optimism and success in their operations. Good public policy is also critical, so we look at the presence of supportive local government tax and regulatory policies. Taxation Over the past number of months the Brandon Chamber of Commerce has held meetings with various stakeholders who represent various interests in the city. At the beginning of October, Brandon Mayor Shari Decter-Hirst and City Councillors met with the Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for an open discussion about the future of our city. There are some interesting and exciting initiatives that are being discussed, with the vision of a more vibrant community in mind. There is also a concern about how we can afford to pay for the future endeavours when we have significant infrastructure issues to deal with. Many of our current issues are items that need repair or replacement. Some of our sewer systems are near end of their life cycle and of course everyone can identify with a pothole that need to be filled or a street that could use some work. All of these things require spending, and in some cases an injection of new funding to grow.
preliminary budget meeting. This was very helpful to gain a broader understanding of the financial pressures for the division. Early indications are that both the City and the School division will be seeking rate increase. Both the City and the School Division will be holding public meetings to gain your input. We encourage you to attend and offer your opinions. Keep watching the Chamber at a Glance and e-mails for dates about these meetings and locations.
Final Farewell. As you may have heard – The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is losing our General Manager. Nathan Peto has accepted a position with City of Brandon as a Policy Analyst. His last day at the Chamber will be November 10th. Nathan has represented the Chamber very well since he began in 2008.
We wish Nathan the best in his new endeavours and congratulate him on The Chamber will also continue to be on what he provided to the Chamber hand to follow the discussions and during his term. provide our suggestions and provide perspective on behalf of our business membership. Cam Clark Chamber President Brandon University Medical Educational Study The Brandon University has launched a Medical Education study. This study will gauge the potential for establishing a medical program on campus. The study will not only address the current Showcase Your problems associated with population Business at a health status and health service delivery in rural and remote areas of Western Chamber Manitoba, but will also consider the best Luncheon! option for a Rural Medicine Program at Brandon University. Sponsorship includes:
Cam
The Chamber of Commerce is supportive of this initiative in dealing with a solution for the rural medical shortages, but also realizes there are many positive economic spinoffs for our region.
A number of consultation sessions will be announced in regional areas as well as here in Brandon in weeks ahead. We The Brandon School Division also invited encourage you to attend one of theses the Chamber of Commerce to attend a session to provide your input and offer
6
your comments.
A table to display material One seat to the Luncheon Verbal recognition from MC Thank you in Chamber @ a Glance For more information call 571-5344 or email external@brandonchamber.ca
www.brandonchamber.ca
Brandon Chamber of Commerce
Business Achievement Awards
Advertise year round in the 2011-2012 Membership Roster. Sizes and prices are available below!
Full Page - 4.125 x 6.44”
1/4 page –2.05 x 3.25”
Business Excellence Award (15 employees or under) OR
Business Excellence Award (over 15 employees) Honours a business that demonstrates continual excellence through possivite business growth, exemplifies superior custer service and embraces an outstanding commitment to quality.
Business Person of the Year
Deadline: November 15th, 2011
1/2 page - 4.125 x 3.25 inches
To recognize a business person that exemplifies outstanding business practices and achievements, and one who also demonstrates leadership, vision, and the creation of economic growth, while contributing to the community. For more information call the Chamber at 571-5340. Nomination forms available online at www.brandonchamber.ca
PRICING 1/4 Page 1/2 Page Full Page
$200 (+GST) $250 (+GST) $475 (+GST)
Card Stock Inserts (space is limited) B&W 1/2 Page $300 (+GST) Full Page $550(+GST) Colour 1/2 Page $350 (+GST) Full Page $650 (+GST)
BUSINESS BOOKS
Recommended Reading... Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us By Daniel H. Pink Riverhead Hardcover (2009) Forget everything you thought you knew about how to motivate people--at work, at school, at home. It's wrong. As Daniel H. Pink explains in his new and paradigm- shattering book Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us, the secret to high performance and satisfaction in today's world is the deeply human need to direct our own lives, to learn and create new things, and to do better by ourselves and our world.
www.brandonchamber.ca
7
Congratulations... 2011-2012
Board of Directors Cam Clark, President CKLQ/ Star FM Nate Andrews, Vice-President Guild Insurance Brokers Inc.
Business Builder of the Year
Craig Senchuk, Secretary/Treasurer Atom-Jet Industries
Drew Mills
PJ Crane, Past-President Crane Steel Structures Ltd.
Outstanding Entrepreneur of the Year
Frank Ardnt myITsource.ca/MTS Connect Corral Centre
Komfort Kitchen
Todd Birkhan BDO Canada LLP Darren Blazeiko Cancade Company Limited Denny Bouchard Mazergroup Daniel A. Burns Burns Maendel Consulting Engineers Ltd. Karla Dane Meighen Haddad LLP Kent Forman Forman Honda
Darlene North of MTS Darlene’s employees voted her the BEST BOSS in Brandon!
Darlene North (centre) was presented the Best Boss Award by Tracy Young Ridgen (BRHA) and Nathan Peto (Chamber).
Carla Milne MNP LLP Sharon Shepherd West-Fit Physiotherapy & Sports Injury Clinic Chad Wallin Montana’s Cookhouse
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 Two 50” Flat screens Wireless PowerPoint Seating for 18
CHAMBER at a glance 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 EDITING & DESIGN: Carolynn Cancade PRINTING: Leech Printing Ltd. 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.
www.brandonchamber.ca 8