January 2015
Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce January 2015
Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce
Social Media www.facebook.com/princealbertchamber
Get in Touch Tel: 306-764-6222 Email: chamberpa@sasktel.net
A Message from the CEO, Merle Lacert Hello Members, Happy New Year to All!!
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Each New Year brings reflections on the past year and thoughts and plans for the upcoming year. While our past year was excellent, it is with the New Year in mind that I write this column.
Board Chair Shelley Cannon Wilcox and Chovin Law Offices
My first thoughts rest once again with infrastructure. The Chamber and its partners will continue to plan a strategy to see improved infrastructure throughout our region.
Past Chairman Mike Mitchell Tyrone Pest Control
Let’s hope that 2015 will also see a spring and summer without any road or highway closures. We have definitely had our challenges in the past few years.
1st Vice Chair Jayne Remenda Prince Albert Tourism & Marketing Bureau
With infrastructure a priority in our area, the Chamber will be co-hosting a summit on infrastructure next month. Part of the focus will be to expand on the details of the recent Diefenbaker Bridge Report by V-Max Consulting. Please watch for event details.
Secretary Treasurer Gord Jahn MNP
Prince Albert businesses continue to grow and we hope 2015 includes many new expansions and start-ups. We look forward to the city’s efforts to promote and attract new opportunities to realize more of the excellent potential that exists in Prince Albert.
Board Appointed Robert Bratvold Saskatchewan Rivers Public School Division
Finding employees and filling out our workforce has been challenging. While skilled labour will likely remain a challenge, one great tool for employers to look at is the Canada-Saskatchewan Job Grant. This program can assist employers in building and strengthening the labour pool they require. Employers can receive up to $10,000 per trainee, and may complete multiple applications to a maximum of 250,000.00 annually. The first step is to review the information and then complete the eligibility checklist. Use this link for more information;
Elected Board Members Greg Breeze, Affinity Insurance
www.economy.gov.sk.ca/job-grant
Ian Litzenberger, Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy Continued on Page 5
January 2015
Bruce Vance, Prince Albert Raider Hockey Club Shayne Lazarowich, Prince Albert Multicultural Council
Meghan Mayer, Salon Six
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Chamber welcomes New Board Members The Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce is pleased to welcome new board members. The contributions made by all our board members are appreciated and crucial to the success of the Chamber and its efforts to engage and promote local business in Prince Albert.
Executive Officers Chairman: Shelley Cannon, Wilcox and Chovin Law Office Past Chairman: Mike Mitchell, Tyrone Pest Control First Vice Chair: Jayne Remenda, Prince Albert Tourism & Marketing Bureau Second Vice Chair Greg Breeze, Affinity Insurance Secretary Treasurer: Gord Jahn, MNP Board Appointed: Robert Bratvold, Sask. Rivers Public School Division
Elected Board Members Bruce Vance, P.A. Raider Hockey Club Ian Litzenberger, Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy Meghan Mayer, Salon Six Garrett Lawless, Transwest Air James Milne, Arnot Heffernan Slobodian Law Office Tracy Feher, Feher Financial Inc
Staff Merle Lacert, CEO Danica Jessie, Executive Assistant Charlene Tebbutt Communications Coordinator January 2015
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Athabasca Basin Development Named Business of the Year Athabasca Basin Development was named Business of Year by SaskBusiness Magazine at a ceremony last month. The northern Saskatchewan investment company was honoured for its efforts to not only attract investment and growth, but give back to the local community. Since starting operations 10 years ago, Athabasca Basin Development has grown from a small corporation to having a stake in 10 companies and revenues of more than $176 million, SaskBusiness Magazine said in a December feature article about the company. “We are proud, and very humbled, to have received this recognition,” Geoff Gay, CEO of Athabasca Basin Development said in a news release. “As an Aboriginal-owned investment company, we started from humble beginnings and have worked hard over the last twelve years, reinvesting Pictured (Left to Right): Geoff Gay, CEO, ABD; Chief Earl Lidguerre, ABD Board earnings to grow our Member, Anne Robillard, ABD Board Chair; Twila Reddekopp, Publisher, company. Back in the early SaskBusiness Magazine; Joyce Powder, ABD Board member, Daniel Powder, ABD Board Member. days, we never would have imagined we would be where we are today, and we are incredibly honoured to have been chosen as this year’s Business of the Year.” Twila Redekopp, publisher at SaskBusiness Magazine, said the Business of the Year honour is awarded to companies that give back to the community while continuing to be admirable corporate citizens. “It is a way to show our appreciation to innovative, well respected and benevolent businesses,” Redekopp said in a release. “This year we are happy to recognize ABD for their contribution to the Saskatchewan economy and more importantly, our communities.” The Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce is proud to count Athabasca Basin Development among its members, and looks forward to ABD’s continued growth and success. January 2015
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Chamber Board Chair appointed to Provincial Tribunal Shelley Cannon, Chair of the Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors was recently appointed to the Practitioner Staff Appeals Tribunal. Ms. Cannon will serve as Vice Chair of the Tribunal. She was appointed to a three-year term by Minister Dustin Duncan on October 27, 2014. The Practitioner Staff Appeals Tribunal hears appeals from medical practitioners who wish to appeal decisions of a Regional Health Authority. The Law Society of Saskatchewan is allowed to recommend six candidates to the Ministry of Health, two of whom are appointed to a three-year term. The mandate of the Tribunal is to hear appeals related to the appointment, suspension or termination of practitioners, discipline matters or the granting, suspension or revocation of privileges. The Tribunal includes one member from each of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan, the Saskatchewan Medical Association, the College of Dental Surgeons of Saskatchewan, the Chiropractors’ Association of Saskatchewan, the provincial Association of Health Care Organizations and two members from the province’s Law Society.
Message from the CEO Continued from Page 2
In 2015, we will celebrate business excellence through our 25th annual Samuel McLeod business awards. This year’s awards already promise to be a excellent event that will recognize and celebrate the success of local businesses. Plan to join us on April 23, 2015 as we celebrate. As with each new year, we are looking forward to our Annual State of the City Address and luncheon with Mayor Greg Dionne on January 29, 2015. It will surely be a great event with thoughts from the past year as well as insights into what the new year holds for Prince Albert. Contact the chamber office or visit our website to register. www.princealbertchamber.com. On behalf of our 12 Chamber Directors and staff, I would like to wish everyone the very best in the upcoming year. May it hold growth and prosperity for all.
January 2015
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January 2015
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New Website Helps Plan and Track Careers A new government website was launched in December to help Saskatchewan residents plan and track their career goals, and get access to the education and training they need without leaving their home province. SaskCareers.ca is a joint effort between the Saskatchewan Ministries of the Economy, Education and Advanced Education, along with the Saskatchewan Industry Education Council. The website allows students to plan their careers, learn about the education and training requirements of more than 500 jobs and track their careers. Members of the Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce are encouraged to take part in the launch of SaskCareers by adding their business information to the website. Businesses are encouraged to add information about job opportunities, internships, professional development and job fairs. The SaskCareers website is expected to help fill some 95,000 jobs that are estimated to be created over the next two years, the government said in a news release. To read the full release from the provincial government, click here.
January 2015
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January 2015
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Chamber Members in the News Kudos to the Prince Albert Travelodge. They donated their hotel ballroom at no cost for the annual Christmas Day dinner. The dinner serves more than 2,000 meals every year to those in need. Read more about it here.
Congratulations! To Jayne Remenda, who has been named the new Economic Development Manager for the City of Prince Albert. Jayne will leave her position as head of Prince Albert Tourism and the city’s Destination Marketing Fund to take on her new role, starting January 19. Congratulations! To James Milne, who was welcomed into the Prince Albert Bar Association in a ceremony in Prince Albert in December. James is a new board member with the Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce and works with Arnot Heffernan Slobodian Law.
Way to Go! To all our Chamber members and individuals who helped raise money for Give a Little Life Day in support of the Victoria Hospital Foundation. The December 5 event raised more than $400,000!
January 2015
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Geroy Simon Collects Coats 4 Kids
Geroy Simon from the Saskatchewan Roughriders was at the Northern Lights Casino Dec. 2 to sign autographs and collect donations of warm winter coats for children in need. Since retiring as a professional football player in June, Simon has been promoting his charitable foundation, Coats 4 Kids. In total, 116 winter coats were collected for the program. The Prince Albert Co-op Home & Agro Centre also joined in the giving, donating 300 brand-new toques and mitts for the cause.
January 2015
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How Safe is Your Business? Kick off your New Year right and do so safely. As a business owner, you make every effort to comply with relevant regulations and legislation to ensure your employees are safe. Ask yourself these important questions:
How many people do I have trained in basic first aid and CPR?
When was the last time we updated our first aid and CPR training?
Does everyone know where the First Aid kit(s) are located, and is someone responsible to check them for supplies on a regular basis?
In the event of an emergency, does everyone know what to do?
It is important as a business owner, regardless of your size, to stop and exam your safety procedures. Even if you are a business of one and work from home, you and your family are just as important as a business with 50 or more employees. As an employer your obligations may vary if you are in the city or working in an isolated or distant location. The first step of being prepared is doing an inventory of what you have or don’t have, thus being able to then understand what you need. At Parkland Ambulance Care, we have the tools to help you do this inventory. Just give us a call and we’d be happy to share the tools with you. Once you understand what you need, there is another need to go out and get. We at Parkland Ambulance Care can provide you with the essential training to bring your employees up to the required standard. Whether it is basic first aid, WHMIS or TDG, we have the resources to assist you. But remember, before an emergency happens, it is important to educate your employees to take responsibility for safety in the workplace. Depending on the type of business different hazards exist. Create the opportunity, maybe just once a month, to share an item everyone can work on improving. Maybe it’s the wet floor, turned up carpet or icy sidewalks; there are hazards we need to recognize to prevent injury. If you need assistance, we are happy and willing to assist. Visit our web site at www.parklandambulance.com or email lyle@parklandambulance.com to get first aid and CPR training set up from your workplace. You may not know that such training is now available online, which decreases the amount of time employees are away from the workplace. Parkland Ambulance Care is also able to provide staff meeting or lunch-time speakers. Maybe a fresh face will give those sometime boring safety meetings a new look. We are happy to help and it doesn’t cost you a single thing. Be safe and help your employees carry that message to their homes as well. Please, let us help you reduce injuries in your workplace! January 2015
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Chamber of Commerce Hosts Annual Christmas Social for Members The Chamber of Commerce held its annual Christmas Social on December 10. A number of Chamber members took part in the event and enjoyed meeting and networking with other local business owners. We look forward to the continued success and participation of all our members in 2015! Thank you for your continued support of the Chamber!
January 2015
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January 2015
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Chamber Members Take Part in Mock ‘Dragon’s Den’ A number of local business owners and Chamber members took part in a mock Dragon’s Den event December 2 at Prince Albert Collegiate Institute (PACI). The event was an opportunity for local high school students to practice their skills in public speaking, presentations and debate in an effort to convince business owners to support their cause. Students were asked to present a persuasive speech which would convince the dragons to support a cause. Dragons were given $1000 of ‘PACI Bucks’ and at the end of the presentations dragons were asked to distribute their funds to the most persuasive speakers. The ‘Dragons’ included: Don Jones, Anderson Motors , Evergreen Nissan Betsy Chan, MNP Mayor Greg Dionne – City of Prince Albert Shayne Lazarowich, Prince Albert Multicultural Council Andrew Potter - Prince Albert Online Marketing Rod Thomson – Saskatchewan Rivers Public School Board Chad Mogg - Dr. Java's Coffee House Darryl Mills – Prince Albert Daily Herald Ms. Leslie Blacklock - AODBT architecture and interior design Prince Albert Some of the students’ pitches to the Dragons included:
Using abandoned buildings in PA to create specialized medical clinics for children.
To increase funding for places like the YWCA and Our House so more beds can be provided for homeless people.
To reconsider and call into accountability the way professionals in the mental health care system treat patients.
To train and place people into school to train children to confront and deal with bullies for themselves.
Thank you! From the students and faculty at Prince Albert Collegiate Institute January 2015
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January 2015
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Local Businesses Volunteer with Meals-on-Wheels Over the years, Meals-On-Wheels (MOW) clients have greatly benefitted from the time and energy of volunteer drivers from the Prince Albert Parkland Health Region (PAPHR). Corporate and community groups in the area are a particularly important part of the Health Region’s volunteer workforce. Several have taken on a monthly, or bi-monthly, commitment to deliver hot meals to Home Care clients. Often used as a team-building activity by employers, staff are given time to go out and distribute meals to the elderly or the physically impaired who can’t cook for themselves or go out for groceries. Meals on Wheels drivers report a high level of satisfaction with their task. They also report a very positive outlook when returning to their offices for the rest of the day. “Now, more than ever, employers are looking into the value of staff volunteering ,” says Sonya Jahn, Director of Volunteer Services. “Happier staff means a better retention rate. It also means a greater sense of health and wellness, therefore cutting down on absenteeism.” Employers looking at group projects, or team volunteering, as a way to improve workplace morale need look no further than the Meals-on-Wheels program. It is an excellent choice for achieving that goal. The Meals-on-Wheels program in Prince Albert recently welcomed two new local companies to its volunteer roster. The Riverside Auto Group and the Northern Lights Casino joined long-time drivers from the following companies and community groups: Conexus Credit Union Kin Enterprises Parkland Ambulance Pineland Home Care Prince Albert Parkland Health Region (Corporate office staff) Royal Bank of Canada Royal Purple Elks Saskatchewan Polytechnic Scotiabank Superannuated Teachers If your employer, staff or colleagues are interested in taking on Meals-on-Wheels as a team project, please call the Health Region’s Volunteer Services Department at 306-765-6010. Thanks a million to all of you for your dedication and service to the residents of this community. Sonya Jahn Director of Volunteer Services January 2015
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Upcoming Events at the Chamber of Commerce Tickets are now available for the Chamber’s Legacy Brunch and the Samuel McLeod Business Awards Gala. To register for these exciting upcoming events, call the Chamber at 306-764-6222 or register online.
Legacy Brunch
Samuel McLeod Business Awards
March 19, 2015 April 23, 2015
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Raiders Wrap Up Exciting First Half It’s been an exciting first half for the Raiders with some highs and lows, a few new faces in the line-up and a great outlook as the team drives for the playoffs. Recap all the excitement on the Raiders website in the Frank Dunn Toyota Game Highlight zone www.raiderhockey.com
Raider Store Get your hands on the newest Raider merchandise! Visit our store located in the Raider Office at the Art Hauser Centre Monday to Friday 9:30-5:00 or during home games! Can’t make it to the rink? We’ve got you covered, shop online through the Raider Store at your convenience anytime of the day! Mobile App Don’t forget to download the official app of the Prince Albert Raiders. It allows you to keep up with the team, check the schedule and scores, receive news and game updates and more! Coming up in the second half of the season, fans who download the app will have chances to win some great Raiders prizes!
Home Games th
Away Games
Wednesday Jan. 7 vs. Moose Jaw
Saturday Jan. 10th @ Regina Pats
Friday Jan. 9th vs. Swift Current Broncos
Friday Jan. 23rd @ Brandon Wheat Kings
Friday Jan. 16th vs. Kootenay Ice
Sunday Jan. 25th @ Saskatoon Blades
Saturday Jan. 17th vs. Medicine Hat Tigers
Friday Jan. 30th @ Calgary Hitmen
Wednesday Jan. 28th vs. Saskatoon Blades
Saturday Jan. 31st @ Red Deer Rebels
Friday Feb. 6th vs. Swift Current Broncos
Tuesday Feb. 3rd @ Regina Pats
Purchase your tickets online at www.raiderhockey.com or visit/call the Raider office at 306-765-GAME to get your seats today! January 2015
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WHITROW STOBBS & ASSOCIATES Professional Accountants
January 2015
RELIABLE ADVICE & SOLUTIONS 144 12th St. East Prince Albert Phone: 306.764.2773 ...ACCOUNTING...TAXATION...CORPORATE SERVICES...
Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce
Financial
Statements Corporate
Tax Audits
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Chartered Accountants & Business Advisors As a proud member of the Prince Albert community, our team of chartered accountants and business advisors continue to grow to meet your unique needs. National in scope and local in focus, we take the time to understand your challenges and deliver personalized solutions that help you achieve your goals. Our diverse services include:
Assurance
Consulting
Corporate Finance
Corporate Recovery & Insolvency
Enterprise Risks
Investigative & Forensic Services
Succession
Tax & Specialty Tax
Valuation & Litigation Support
For more information contact a local MNP advisor at 306.764.6873 January 2015
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WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Icon Realty Super Dave Hagel Congratulations to renewed Members for December Amy’s on Second
KPS Medic Ltd.
Anderson Pump House
Lakeland Ford Sales
AREVA Resources Canada
Northern Lights Casino
Athabasca Basin Development
P.A. Anglers Fishing & Hunting
Boston Pizza
P.A. Indian Metis Friendship Centre
Bev’s Fish & Seafood on 15th
Paulsen & Son Excavating
CAA Travel Agency Saskatchewan
Prince Albert Parkland Health Region
Cornerstone Insurance
Right at Home ReDesigns
Direct Audio
Saskatchewan Rivers Public School Division
E & B Lumber
Sask. Liquor & Gaming Store #507
Fresh Air Experience
Sask. Liquor & Gaming Store #546
Gene’s Sports Excellence
Scotiabank
Good Shepherd Villa
Superior Propane
Gray’s Funeral Chapel
Vern’s Pizza
GRW Contracting
Victoria Hospital Foundation
Hannigan Honey
Y Groenen CGA Prof
Heat Smart Plus
Thank you! Your continued support of your local Chamber makes it possible for us to work on your behalf, and we want you to know we value your commitment! January 2015
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Calendar of Events << Sun
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1 New Year's Extravaganza in Support of the SPCA
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19 Managing Workplace Conflict
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28 2015 Mayor's State of the City Address
January 2015
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The Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan is the #1 plan in Canada! For employee benefits, covering over 25,000 small businesses across the country. ALL types of businesses are eligible for the program no industry exclusions! Call 306-922-4414 today to find out how much money your business can save!
January 2015
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Chamber Staff
Prince Albert & District Chamber of Commerce 3700 â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 2nd Avenue West Prince Albert, SK S6W 1A2
Merle Lacert CEO Danica Jesse Executive Assistant
T: 306.764.6222 F: 306.922.4727 www.princealbertchamber.com
January 2015
Charlene Tebbutt Communications Coordinator
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