Glance
Chamberata Chamberata
A Message from Your President
HARVESTINGSUCCESS:CHAMBERTEAMWORK DRIVESAPROMISINGSEASONAHEAD
Autumn has always been my favourite season, and the energy and excitement in the Chamber community only addstomyloveofFall! Ithinkmyloveofthisseasoncomes fromgrowinguponasmallfamilyfarmworkingaspartofa small but mighty team who worked together to get a huge amount of work done in preparation for winter Whether it was combining, hauling hay, moving cattle or cutting firewood,myparents,mysisterandIworkedtogethertoget a multitude of tasks done before the snow fell each year There is nothing quite like sitting down together to a hot meal, bone tired but thankful for another day of hard work accomplished.
Thebestpartofteamworkisthateachpersonhasajobthat is well suited to their strengths, and what might be easy for one person is more difficult for another, so you’re able to fill in each other’s gaps and together get a job done that’s bigger than any of you could have completed on your own That’s how I feel as the Board of Directors, and the Committees of the Board, get organized to dig into the work of the Chamber for the 2024-25 year ahead. Our Board is dynamic and diverse, representing a wide range of businesses that contribute to Brandon’s strong economy. Three Directors will provide leadership to our committees, ensuring that a wide range of voices and perspectives gather around the Chamber board table to inform the work ofourorganizationintheyearahead
Jennifer Ludwig is the Chair of the Government Relations committee and has engaged with a committee of current board members, past presidents and industry leaders who will collaborate to ensure that Chamber interests are front and centre with all levels of government as well as our local schooldivision
EmelioBrownwillleadtheBusinessDevelopmentCommittee and has assembled a strong group of business owners, economic development professionals and post-secondary representatives to provide leadership and advocacy to the most pressing issues encountered within the local business landscape. This year, the committee will take a specific focus on all things agriculture, to ensure that the Chamber says well connected to our community’s largest, most diverse industry Finally, Rob Starkell has agreed to lead a reimagined Workforce Alignment Committee This group will pay particular attention to creating meaningful connections betweenourbusinessesandeducationalinstitutions,
working hard to ensure that our young people are fully equipped to move into the workforce with the right tools in their toolbox to meet the ever-changing needs of Brandon’s businesses and industries Each Director and committee memberwasrecruitedwithspecialattentionto the unique perspective and talents that they could share with others around the boardroom table. Together we will share ideas and build initiativesthatwilltrulymakeourChamber,and byextensionourcommunity,stronger.Aloneno one committee member or Director could complete this important work in isolation, but together I am confident that we will be able to work as a team to create initiatives, position statements and insightful perspectives on a wide variety of business and community initiatives.
So, just like on the farm, where that one person has the knack to back the truck into the grain auger perfectly each time, while another can anticipate which way the cows will break the Chamberhasadiverseandexperiencedgroup of professionals poised to take on the legion of work that awaits us in the year ahead We will succeed because we will build on each other’s strengths and step in to fill gaps as needed. Together, we will move forward many exciting initiatives, hold our government partners accountable and support Brandon’s business community at every opportunity. Looking forward to a season full of teamwork and success!
Lois Ruston
Welcoming Olivia Boyce as Chamber GM
EXCITINGTIMESAHEAD!
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the appointment of Olivia Boyce as the new General Manager, effective September 23, 2024 Olivia brings extensiveexperiencefromherpreviousrole in our Membership department, where she excelled at building strong relationships and developing a deep understanding of our members' needs. Her transition into the leadershiproleisanaturalprogression,and her familiarity with the Chamber and its members sets her up for success as she stepsintothisnewchapter
In addition to her professional experience within the Chamber, Olivia recently completed her MBA in Community Economic Development, providing her with valuable insights and tools to drive initiatives that promote local business growth and contribute to a thriving economy Her academic background, combined with her experience, equips her to address the unique challenges and opportunities facing the Brandon business community.
The Chamber is committed to ensuring a smooth transition as Olivia takes the helm. Our current General Manager, Connor Ketchen, will work alongside Olivia during this period to provide support and guidance. This collaborative approach will notonlyfacilitateOlivia’sleadership
transition but also ensure that our members continue to receive the support theyneedduringthisexcitingtime
Oliviahasexpressedherenthusiasmforthe role and is eager to collaborate with both the Chamber’s members and the wider Brandon community. Her vision is to create a dynamic and supportive environment for local businesses, focusing on economic developmentandcollectivegrowth.
WeareconfidentthatOlivia’sleadershipwill bring fresh ideas and energy to the Chamber. Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Olivia Boyce as she begins her new role as General Manager. Exciting times are ahead for the Brandon ChamberofCommerce!
events lineup
CHAMBER101
OCT3,2024|10:00-11:00AM|1043ROSSERAVE FREEEVENT,REGISTRATIONREQUIRED.
FIRSTFRIDAYCOFFEE
OCT4,2024|9:00-10:00AM|1043ROSSERAVE NOREGISTRATIONREQUIRED
BUSINESSNOMINATIONKICK-OFFPARTY!
SMALLBUSINESSECONOMICWORKSHOP
OCT21,2024|1:00PM-2:30PM|CLARIONHOTEL FREEEVENT.REGISTRATIONREQUIRED.
SMALLBUSINESSCELEBRATIONLUNCHEON
OCT24,2024|11:00AM-1:00PM|UCTKEYSTONE REGISTRATIONCLOSESSEPTEMBER16TH.
SEPTEMBER LUNCHEON
PATHWAYSTOECONOMICRECONCILIATION
EVENTRECAP
On September 19, we hosted our Chamber Luncheon at the Clarion Hotel, where over 230 business leaders and community members came together to discuss pathways to economic reconciliation Manitoba Métis Federation Housing Minister Will Goodon delivered an impactful keynote address, encouraging the Brandon business community to form partnerships with Métis people to drive both economic growth and reconciliation.
MinisterGoodon’sAddress
Minister Goodon emphasized that partnering with Métis communities is both an ethical and smart business decision He urged local entrepreneurs to explore collaboration as a means to create opportunities that benefit both the Métis Nation and the wider business community "Investing in our communities and our nations and our government is not only the right thing to do, but also the smart thing todo,"hestated.
Goodon highlighted the Manitoba Métis Federation’s plans to expand its presence in Brandon through senior housing projects, child care services, and the potentialdevelopmentofapharmacy Healsoshared thesuccessoftheRedRiverMétisFurCompany,which helpsMétistrappersandartisanssustaintheircraftby purchasing furs at a premium and selling them to artisans at discounted rates. This initiative preserves Métis traditions and represents a unique way businesses can engage in meaningful reconciliation efforts
FromtheChamber
As the voice for business in Brandon, the Chamber is committed to fostering conversations that support economicreconciliation MinisterGoodon’sspeech
“Investing in our communities and ournationsisnotonlytherightthing to do, but also the smart thing to do.”–MinisterWillGoodon
reinforced the importance of building strong partnerships between local businesses and Indigenous communities, paving the way for inclusive growth We believe that collaboration with Métis and other Indigenous communities will be essential in shaping the future of Brandon’s economy
By supporting initiatives like those led by the Manitoba Métis Federation, businesses can contribute to sustainable, community-driven development while also benefiting from the economic opportunities these partnerships provide
ThankYou
WeextendoursincerethankstoourHostSponsor, Sunrise Credit Union, for making this luncheon possible. We also wish to thank our Booth Sponsors: Indigenous Chamber of Commerce, SV Benefits, St. John Ambulance, Interprovincial Association on Native Employment (IANE) Westman, and the Brandon Urban Aboriginal Peoples'Council Special thanks go out to our AV & Media Team, Trident X, and to our venue, Clarion Hotel & Suites, for their support in ensuring the success of the event
We look forward to continuing the conversation on economic reconciliation and creating more opportunities for collaboration between our businesscommunityandIndigenouspartners.
2024-2025LeadershipCohort
SONIKILETEMBO
CityofBrandon
KIMBERLYROODE
CanadianArmed Forces
LESLIEMORDEN FamilyVisions
DESTINYMALUGA
BrandonChamberof Commerce
CONNORMORAND
BrandonFreshFarms
TROYTRIPP
CityofBrandon
ArchanaKrishnan
AssiniboineCollege
GLENPAGADUAN
WestmanImmigrant Services
ROXANNEMARTIN
CityofBrandon
leadershiprecap
The September session of the Leadership Brandon Programofficiallyintroducedthe2024-2025cohort Now in its second year, the program is a continued partnership between the Brandon Chamber of Commerce and Westman Immigrant Services This session was facilitated by Olivia Boyce from the Chamber and Kristen Perrott from Westman Immigrant Services
To kick off the program, participants engaged in a professional development session led by Ryan Quesnel, Certified Executive Coach and CEO of Brilliance Coaching Ryan facilitated the Everything DiSC® Management assessment, a research-based tool designed to offer participants personalized insights into theirleadershipstyles
Following the assessment, participants debriefed their results through interactive activities, breakout groups,andreflectivediscussions Thesessionfocusedonfosteringeffectivecollaborationbyhelping participants better understand their own leadership preferences, anticipate and reduce potential conflicts,andappreciatethestrengthsofothers
Thissessionsetastrongfoundationforthecohort’syearahead,asparticipantscontinuetobuildtheir leadershipskillsandconnectwithoneanother Weareexcitedforthejourneythatliesaheadforthe 2024-2025LeadershipBrandonCohort!
CELEBRATING5YEARS
Co/operators
MBEconomicDevelopment, Investment&Trade
MuseBridalStudio
PinnacleEventRentals
GrandValleyRestaurantEquipment andSuppliesLtd
EnvironmentalConsultingSolutions
VanishSkinClinic
FriendsFurLife&Duke'sPlace
NicoleRiceEquipmentLeasing
GREYPEARLInteriorDesign
CortevaAgriscience
MPLocatesLTD
CELEBRATING10YEARS
OmniLyteEnviroInc WavesLeisure GEMServices
SandHillsCasino
Celebrating15Years
CELEBRATING15YEARS
BVTTruckandTrailer
BVTTruckandTrailer
TridentEventGroup
SmittenPremiumAdultBoutique ProgressiveWestman
CELEBRATING20YEARS
2693195ManitobaLtd.
BDRServicesLtd
VBJDevelopments
BrandonMobilityHealthCare Solutions
ReactiveMassageTherapy
TaylorJacksonFinancialServices Inc,SunLifeFinancial
CELEBRATING25YEARS
LakeviewInn&Suites
HamiltonIronLtd
EdwardJones,PerryDoull
BallingallBrosTruckingLtd
CanyonContractingLtd.
RiverheightsTerrace
MemoriesChapel&Pre/Planning Centre
Cranberry'sFamilyRestaurant
CELEBRATING30YEARS
DonaldandKehlerLawOffice
TasmanianGravelLtd.
CareerPlanning&Placement Officer,BrandonUniversity McPhailTravel/Moonlit Canopy
CPHRManitoba
TommyGun'sOriginal Barbershop
CELEBRATING35YEARS
SouthernWaterSystems
BrandonLiteracyCouncilInc.
AdvantageAutoandTrailer McMunn&YatesBuilding Supplies
Myphone/TELUS&KOODO AuthorizedDealer
CELEBRATING40YEARS
TrendCollection&Bailiff ServicesLtd.
WheatCityDiesel East40PackersLtd
CELEBRATING45YEARS
TheRealCanadian Superstore/LoblawsInc. BrandonSewingCentreLtd.
CELEBRATING50YEARS
KlydonFarms ShiloCountryClub West/ManFootClinic NickelElectric
ManitobaBlueCross BrandonSchoolofDance
CELEBRATING55YEARS
Century21WestmanRealty Ltd
BEHLENIndustriesLP Benmarks WesternManitobaCentennial Auditorium
BrandonUniversityStudents Union
CELEBRATING60YEARS
JohnHowardSociety
LindenbergSeedsLtd
CELEBRATING65YEARS
FarmCreditCanada
Mazergroup
CentralAutoBodyShop
BrandonLtd
Paul'sHaulingLtd /KAG
Canada
BrandonSchoolDivision
CELEBRATING70YEARS
OldDutchFoodsLtd.
CELEBRATING75YEARS
ManitobaRealEstate Association
CELEBRATING80YEARS BDC/Business DevelopmentBankOf Canada
CELEBRATING95YEARS
UnionShoeStore HeritageCo/op
CELEBRATING105YEARS
VanHoutteCafe
CELEBRATING115YEARS
Leon'sFurniture
Superstore
CELEBRATING120YEARS
CAAManitoba
CELEBRATING135YEARS
·ChildandFamilyServices ofWesternManitoba
CELEBRATING160YEARS RBCRoyalBank
JoinOurTeamasaMembershipCoordinator!
AttheBrandonChamberofCommerce,webelieveinthepowerofcommunityand thestrengthofbuildingmeaningfulbusinessrelationships.We’relookingfora driven,outgoingindividualtohelpgrowourmembershipbaseandstrengthen existingconnections.AsourMembershipCoordinator,you’llplayakeyrolein promotingChamberprogramsandserviceswhilefosteringavibrantbusiness environment.
Ifyou'repassionateaboutcommunityengagementandbuildingstrongnetworks, we’dlovetohearfromyou!Applytodayandbepartofadynamicteammakinga differenceinBrandon’sbusinesscommunity.
Submityourresumeandcoverlettertogm@brandonchamber.catoday!
meet a member:
bluemoon waterinc.
HowdidyougetinvolvedwithBlueMoonWater?
While I was taking my plumbing certification at Red River College in the early 2000’s, one of my instructors sharedthatwaterqualitywouldbeathingofthefuture. Growing up in a small town with issues like well contamination, this insight really struck a chord with meandinspiredmetotransitionintothebottledwater business.
Canyoutellusmoreabouttheservicesyouprovide?
We offer a range of services including bottled water, ice, and water treatment solutions serving communities within a two-hour radius, including Boissevain, Glenboro, Cypress, and Virden. Every bottle we handle is pre-treated and sterilized to ensure topnotch quality. We provide water softeners for both commercialandresidentialneeds,andwealsoprovide gourmetcoffeeserviceswithbeantocupoptions.
Whatdoesatypicaldaylooklikeforyourteam?
During the summer, our days typically start around 7 amandfinisharound7pm,inthewinterweslowdown a bit and work from about 8 am to 5:30 or 6 pm. Our team is constantly on the move, whether we’re traveling for well water treatment or working with local constructionprojectstoensuretheirwaterispotable
How many people are on your team, and what is the dynamiclike?
We have a dedicated team of 9 staff members, including my family my parents, two nephews, and my sister, who manages our bookkeeping I truly value working closely with my employees They’re skilled, great with our customers, and their dedication is a key partofoursuccess
WhatareyourfuturegoalsforBlueMoonWater?
We’re exploring automation for ice and bottled water production to improve efficiency and increaseouroveralltotaloutput Weoftenhavea waitlistforourbagsoficeastheyaresopopular, but quite labour intensive. Automating these processeswillhelpusmeetthedemand
Can you share any memorable experiences or achievementswithBlueMoonWater?
One of my highlights has been winning internationalawardsforourwater,includinggold and silver medals. We’ve consistently placed in these competitions, which is something we’re veryproudof
Congratulations on your awards! A water tastingcompetitionsoundsfun!Doyouthinkwe couldhostsomethinglikethatinBrandon?
Thank you! We do have several companies and fill stations in the area. A water tasting competitioncouldcertainlybeafunandexciting waytocelebratethequalityofourlocalwater
SEATOFTRUTH
KEYSTONE CENTRE UNVEILS
“SEAT
OF TRUTH” TO PROMOTE TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION IN WESTOBA PLACE
Brandon, MB – The Keystone Centre unveiled a significantnewadditiontoWestobaPlace,Sept20,at the Brandon Wheat Kings home opener game against the Moose Jaw Warriors: the “Seat of Truth” This installation is described as a deliberate effort to foster awareness, understanding, and dialogue surrounding issues of truth and reconciliation. Located on Treaty 2 territory home to the Dakota, Ojibway,andMétispeoples thisinitiativereflectsthe Keystone Centre’s commitment to recognizing and honoring the rich Indigenous heritage of the area. TheSeatofTruth,locatedinSection112,Seat2inRow K,iseasilyvisibletoallguestsenteringthearena,and the placement serves as a deliberate acknowledgement of Treaty 2, signed in 1871 at Manitoba House, present day Kinosota, MB This seat will remain intentionally empty to serve as a commemorative action for the spirits and lives of those lost to historical violence, including Residential Schools,andwhosememoriesmustbehonored
Connie Lawrence, CEO & General Manager of the Keystone Centre, emphasizes the importance of this space:“The‘SeatofTruth’ismorethanjustaphysical installation; it represents the Keystone Centre’s ongoing commitment to helping our region’s shared history remain visible in a highly public space It serves as a powerful reminder for everyone who entersthearenathatunderstandingandrespectare crucialforbuildingaunifiedcommunity.
The initiative has also been supported by local Indigenousleaderswhochampionthesignificanceof truthandreconciliation
JasonGobeil,OutreachCoordinatorwiththeProvince of Manitoba, notes, “creating opportunities of awareness and education are pathways to learning aboutahistoryuntold;theSeatofTruthremindsusof the importance we all play in reconciliation locally andwithinourprovince,”highlightingtheimportance ofcreatingawarenessinpublicspaces
TheKeystoneCentreinvitesallcommunitymembers toengagewiththe“SeatofTruth”asaspacenotonly for reflection but also for action As events and gatherings take place within Westoba Place, visitors are encouraged to take a moment to acknowledge thehistoriesthatshapeourcollectiveidentityandto participateinconversationsthatcanleadtodeeper understanding For more information on the “Seat of Truth”andupcomingeventsattheKeystoneCentre, please visit wwwkeystonecentrecom or reach out directly
AboutTheKeystoneCentreTheKeystoneCentreisa premier multi-purpose facility located in Brandon, Manitoba It hosts a wide range of events, including concerts,sports,andconferences,andiscommitted to providing an exceptional experience for all attendees.
For more information, contact Jared McKenzie, director of marketingatjared@keystonecentrecomor204-726-3534
LAST CALL FOR SEASON SEATS
SeasonSeats
Season seats are now available for purchase, offering you an unparalleled opportunity to enhance your business experience with the Brandon Chamber of Commerce As a Season Seat holder, you'll unlock exclusive benefits and access to our premier luncheons and events, designed to propel your business forwardandfostermeaningfulconnectionswithinourcommunity.
GetYourSeasonSeatsfortheBrandonChamberLuncheons!
With our first luncheon successfully completed, we’re excited to announce that there are still nine more opportunitiestoconnect,learn,andgrowthroughourpremierevents!SeasonSeatsfortheremainderof theyeararenowavailableforpurchase,butactfast thedeadlineisOctober7th!
SeasonSeats
Season Seats offer an unparalleled opportunity to enhance your business experience with the Brandon ChamberofCommerce AsaSeasonSeatholder,you’llunlockexclusivebenefits,includingaccesstoour upcoming luncheons and events tailored to help propel your business forward These gatherings are not justaboutnetworking;theyareaboutfosteringmeaningfulconnectionswithinourcommunity.
SecureYourSeatsToday
Don't miss out on this exclusive opportunity to elevate your business experience.Individualseatsforthe yeararepricedat$324.00plustax,whileafulltableofeightcanbepurchasedfor$2,440.Investingina SeasonSeatisaninvestmentinyourbusiness'ssuccess,providinghassle-freeregistrationandearlybird pricing
Secure your Season Seats today and join us for an enriching year of collaboration, learning, and growth Together, we can make a difference in our community and support the businesses that drive our economyforward!
2024 -2025LUNCHEONDATES
BoardofDirectors
LOISRUSTON|PRESIDENT YWCAWestman
JENNIFERLUDWIG|VICEPRESIDENT SuperThriftyDrugsCanadaLtd
EMELIOBROWN |SECRETARY-TREASURER IntritechMarketing
MATTBERG
LivingstoneOutdoor&Livingstone LandscapingLtd
TILDAFORTIER GreenstoneBuildingProducts
MEREDYTHLEECH LeechGroup
BRENTMILLER VictoriaInn
ChamberStaff
OLIVIABOYCE GeneralManager
CONNORKETCHEN
ERINHOUCK Office&ProjectManager
DESTINYMALUGA
Events&MarketingCoordinator
Who We Are:
ROBSTARKELL West-CanHRSolutions
CHRISFINLEY Mazergroup
KARINGRIFFIN AlternativeGroup
AMBERWHITE AnytimeFitness
CHARLESTWEED TweediaSocialMedia Agency
ENVERNAIDOO WestmanImmigrant Services
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, favourable to enhancing existing and attracting new business.
“SETTING THE PACE FOR A GREATER BRANDON SINCE 1883”