Business Voice / Fall 2022

Big

BOARD OF

STAFF

Chamber Events

Changes in the Big

Swing Into Fall

September and October tend to feel like the most chaotic months of the year. It seems like the second we go from July to August there’s a switch that’s flipped where we must acknowledge that we’re past the halfway point of summer. Then there’s the mad dash to do as much as possible in August and the first week of September we’re peppered with events, a full office again, and prepping kids for school and sports.

What certainly stands out this September and October compared to the last couple years is the full steam ahead mindset when it comes to events, fundraisers, and networking. It can be a bit exhausting going straight into busy evenings through the week, but it certainly is a good sign of how far we’ve gotten. Seeing busy patios, packed events by the river, and catching up with people to share trips that they got to do is certainly a nice change. Hopefully you weren’t one of the unlucky folks with airline issues, and if you were I hope good memories were still made this summer!

Even though we’re past the best weather, the amount of construction still clogging up your commute to work should tell you that we still aren’t in winter yet at least. For me what always softens the blow of summer ending is sports coming back. If we’re going to be forced inside soon then at least we’ll have good entertainment with the NFL a month in already (Go Steelers!) and hockey and basketball soon to come too.

As we begin this fall season, it is important to share that October is small business month! As much as I encourage and appreciate getting away in the summer, fall can be a way to ground us a bit and turn our attention back to home. As a Chamber and business community we can’t say it enough how important small businesses are

to our community. They’re the logos you see on your kid’s jersey, the sponsors of the networking events, and the driver of our economy here. Be sure to have them top of mind of course all year round but this month in particular!

At the Chamber we’re doing our best to highlight some of these fantastic Saskatoon businesses through our SABEX Awards on October 13th. If you haven’t been out the past couple years, then certainly consider committing to the night this time around. The finalists are already announced and there are so many great groups being recognized already. Take the time to look them up and if you see a business that you know be sure to come support them the night of!

Lastly, at the time of writing this, it is the week of Truth and Reconciliation/Orange Shirt Day. It is great to see that the activities for the day can go ahead as planned without any weather issues like in June. The amount of support from the business community and the city has been inspiring to see. In all my time on the board, the topic of Truth and Reconciliation has transformed from land acknowledgments at the odd event to something much bigger in what seems like just a few years. There is still a lot of work to be done and our board and

As a Chamber and business community we can’t say it enough how important small businesses are to our community. They’re the logos you see on your kid’s jersey, the sponsors of the networking events, and the driver of our economy here.

Colton Wiegers , Chair Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce

the Chamber staff are certainly working hard to make sure it stays top of mind. I look forward to joining the walk and hopefully seeing a lot of our members out there as well!

Saskatoon Chamber Board Chair Colton Wiegers

Sincerely,

Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce

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Ace Asphalt Services

A family owned and operated business serving Saskatoon and area for any asphalt paving needs. Driveways, parking lots, property maintenance, acreages, and new construction.

Ryan Yuzdepski

1106 Hargreaves Way, Saskatoon p: (306) 291-3142

Asphalt - Service / Supplies

Andi Toma Barbering Barber.

Andi Toma 10-1945 McKercher Dr, Saskatoon p: (306) 321-2174

Hair Salon / Stylists

Barbershop Films

A video production company that creates branded content, television commercials, cinematic live-action and animated video content for clients.

Erin Barber

615 2nd Ave N, Saskatoon p: (306) 347-1055 w: www.barbershopfilms.ca Video / Film - Productions / Equipment

Breathe Better Indoor Air Quality Specialists

A full service IAQ company with services from duct cleaning to air quality testing to custom filtration solutions. ''We will have you breathing better''.

David Dram

1201 Spadina Cres E, Saskatoon p: (306) 380-0209 w: www.breathebetter.ca

Janitorial / House Cleaning Services

Citadel Marketing Services

A digital marketing agency that specializes in social media marketing, social media management, content production, photography, videography, brand development, media consulting, audience engagement.

Jordan Levesque

219 Adaskin Cove, Saskatoon p: (306) 321-6533 w: citadelmarketing.ca Marketing / Market Research

Demetra Halcro-Dionn

Home based nail and lash salon Demetra Halcro-Dionne p: (306) 280-1282

Cosmetic / Esthetic - Services / Supplies

Dr. Casmeara Morrow Dental PC Ltd. General dentist. Casmeara Morrow 118-670 Kenderdine Rd, Saskatoon p: (306) 741-5370

Dental Care - Services / Supplies

Elevate Counselling and Therapy Counselling and therapy are more than just about having a place to share their story. Life stress impacts more than your emotions and mental state.

Kenny Bodvarson 900-3530 Millar Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 227-4787 w: www.elevatecounselling.net Counselling / Training

Hard Knox Talks

A live streaming talk show centered around inspiring stories of addiction recovery and real talk about all things substance use. Daniel Hearn p: (306) 880-1955 w: www.hardknoxtalks.com Advertising / Public Relations

Insight Plant Health Corp. Providing fast, efficient solutions to the plant health problems of other agribusinesses.

Dave Greenshields 210-3530 Millar Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 241-3232 w: www.insightplanthealth.com Agricultural

Juniper & Oak Consignments

A family-owned business that provides sustainable feminine fashion, furniture, and decor. Everything from vintage to new with tags.

Diana Pereira 2642 Millar Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 933-2227 w: www.juniperandoak.ca Retail

New Members

LCD Productions Corp.

An entertainment company specializing in hypnosis, mentalism, magic, Djs, casino events, event venue, photobooths, comedians, jugglers, balloon twisters, illusions, and stage production.

Corrie Swallow

147 Robin Cres, Saskatoon

p: (306) 220-6588 w: www.corriej.com

Entertainment / Attractions

LightLeaf Solar

Providing portable, lightweight, durable solar panels. Solar panels are multifunctional and can be the perfect addition to your trailer.

Marissa Johnston / Rick Retzlaff 5-2225 1st Ave N, Saskatoon p: (306) 952-4072

w: www.lightleafsolar.com Manufacturers AND Technology

Magnus Construction Services

Offering you quality you can feel! Services offered are essential thermal, moisture and fire protection as well as upgrades to homes, commercial and agricultural buildings.

Eduardo Chavez Betancur / Conrado Correa

1A-1540 Alberta Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 683-9897 w: www.magnusinsulation.com

Construction AND Contractors

MOBO Promotional Solutions

Award winning, trusted advisor to clientele across Canada who are wanting to optimize their branding initiatives through promotional products, branded apparel and print services.

Krista Boulding / Karen Skirten 335 Robin Way, Saskatoon p: (306) 249-4318

w: www.mobopro.com Advertising Specialties / Sportswear AND Trade Show Service / Supplies

New Members

Procon Mining (Prairie Division) Underground mining contractor. Johnathon Chorney Freeborn Rd, Clavet p: (306) 651-3400 w: procongroup.com

Mining & Exploration

Quinn and Kim's Flowers, Saskatoon's largest and most relied upon florist. A trusted source for sending the freshest of flowers for any and all occasions. Full-service florist: events, weddings, personal.

Quinn Brown 103-294 Venture Cres, Saskatoon p: (306) 956-0600 w: www.qkflowers.com

Florists

Southern Irrigation LP

One-stop irrigation shop, providing products, design and install. Also supplies products for water treatment, septic systems, drainage, waterworks, pumps, dust suppression, fire suppression and more.

Breanna Berends / Alfred Oostenbrink 26 Capital Circle, Saskatoon p: (306) 382-0047 w: www.southernirrigation.com

Agricultural Implements

Summit Meats and Sausage Ltd

A small, family-owned butcher shop located in the beautiful community of Sutherland in Saskatoon. Offering a wide variety of meat, fresh and smoked sausage, jerky, ready-to-eat meals, and other delicious goods - made and prepared on location by experienced staff.

Jason Lanovaz / Tammy Stigen

3-1418 Central Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 978-8838

w: www.summitmeats.com

Retail AND Manufacturers

Supply Chain Canada SK Institute

A non-profit association representing supply chain professionals in Saskatchewan.

Aaron Scrobe 3251 8th St E, Saskatoon p: (306) 653-8899

w: www.supplychaincanada.com Non-Profit Organizations

Universal Immigration Consultancy Ltd.

Providing immigration and recruitment services to represent clients for the Provincial Nominee Programs and Federal Immigration Programs to obtain permanent or temporary residency in Canada.

Paramjit Kaur 4-3000 Diefenbaker Dr, Saskatoon p: (306) 836-3247 w: www.uicimmigration.com

Consultants AND Immigration / Relocation

W Bridals

Wedding dress and associated product sales. Totally owned and operated with female lead and run. Shopping for your dress should be a fun, beautiful and an empowering occasion. We are committed to creating an incomparable experience by providing a unique and modern selection of wedding gowns in a range of sizes to fit every bride. A staff with over 40 years of bridal sales experience will help you find your dream gown.

Kimberley Camboia 142 2nd Ave N, Saskatoon p: (306) 652-2320

w: www.wbridals.ca

Retail AND Retail - Clothing / Costumes

WESCO Distribution Canada LP Construction and Industrial products wholesales focusing on the electrical industry.

Josh Devlin 3911 Millar Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 242-1296

w: buy.wesco.ca Wholesale

DO BUSINESS WITH A CHAMBER MEMBER FIRST

A MEMBERSHIP THAT PAYS FOR ITSELF

As a member of the Chamber, you have immediate access to exclusive savings and discounts designed to grow your business. Recover the cost of your membership by saving time and money through our outstanding discount partners.

Member Renewals

“

We here at Riide salute the Chamber who continuously foster initiatives for community involvement, recognition, and awareness through its many events for learning, expansion, economic development, growth, and leadership. The Chamber leads from the front in providing the foundation for economic and professional growth in our community. The Leaders behind the Chamber are knowledgeable, compassionate, helpful, and extremely supportive. They have boots on the ground and the door is always open! We are proud to be a member.

-Ray Bourner, General Manager, Riide Holdings Inc.

101047819 Sask Ltd.

2 Web Design Inc.

Accelerated Technology

ACE Manufacturing Inc.

AgVantage Solutions Inc.

Allan Stein

Allegro Montessori School

AlSask Property Contract Services Ltd.

Apex Project Services Ltd.

Archwest Tools Ltd.

Ashley Tilsley RMT

Athabasca Basin Security LP

Aurora Workplace Solutions Inc.

Baker Tilly SK LLP

Bateman Jewellers Ltd.

Benchmark Reliability Services, Inc.

Beverly Cantin

Black Dog Republic Board Dynamics Boyden Canada Boyes Group Realty Inc.

Breck Construction Broadway Theatre Brock Canada

Burnett's Key Shop Ltd. CAD Consulting Calian

Calidon Equipment Leasing Canadian Bowling Center Canadian National

CandorBuild Construction Corp.

Canteen Saskatoon CDC Bookkeeping

Central Avenue Health Centre

Champetre County

Cherry Insurance

Christina Cherneskey Communications

Church of Lutheran Brethren of Canada Inc.

Churchill Dog Groomers

Churchill Garment Care Ltd.

Circle West Ultrasound Diagnostics Inc.

Clarence Campeau Development Fund

Clifton Engineering Group Inc.

CNIB Foundation

Complete Technologies

Conexus Credit Union Congregation Agudas Israel Cooke Agencies Ltd.

Cornerstone Dental Centre

CPHR Saskatchewan CPM Group

Creative Compliments Gift Baskets & Flowers Creative Fire CRG Strategies

Crooked Hill Creek Farm Inc.

CTV Bell Media

Dakota Dunes Resort

Dan-Del Holdings Ltd. Dance Saskatchewan Inc.

Daou Auto David Aplin Group

dB Consulting Ltd.

Decora Homes Ltd.

Denham Awning Makers 1982 Inc.

DG Industrial Ltd.

DJ's Windows & Aerial Access

DJB Transportation Services Inc.

Doctors Naylor and Murdoch Optometrists

Done Right Commercial Cleaning Inc.

Dr. Joanne Bourgault Dental Prof. Corp.

Dr. M. Gurgul Podiatrist Prof. Corp.

Dr. Myat Tun Lin Nyo Medical Prof. Corp.

Ebenezer Baptist Church

Ecosmart Developments Inc.

Ed Bobiash Realty P.C. Ltd.

Essence Recruitment

ET Works Canada Ltd.

EXIMPRO

F5 Holdings Ltd.

Farm Credit Canada

Flaman Sales

Frances Murphy

Gabriel Dumont Institute

Ghost Transportation Services

Gibbon Heating & Air Conditioning

Gibson Trucking Ltd.

Greater Saskatoon Catholic Schools

Greenline Distributors

GreenSTEM Technology Corp.

HairStyle Inn Salons

Hanneson Construction Inc.

Haven Builders Inc.

Hertz Canada Ltd.

Hino Truck Sales

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Saskatoon East - University

Holly Decker Makeup Artistry

Honey Bun Cafe Inc.

Hope Hair Recovery

Human Touch Counselling

HX Industrial Control

IA Private Wealth - Living Sky Financial

IA Private Wealth - Mark SmithWindsor

IMP Canada & Mercan Group of Companies

Infinity Events & Decor

International Furniture Wholesales Inc.

Jakeco Holdings Inc.

John Evers

JR & Co. Contractors Inc.

K.C. Charities Inc.

K+S Potash Canada

Keepsake Keto Candies & Chocolates

L & L Transport Ltd.

La Federation des francophones de Saskatoon

Laura Small

Laurier Drive Medical Clinic

Lawrence Finishing Inc.

Leah Brisdon Realty PC

Liftech Concrete Leveling Inc.

LMNO

Member Renewals

Lutheran Early Learning Centers Inc.

M.Y. Private Wealth of Raymond James - Phil Mamchur

Macro Properties

Majestic Cabinets (1990) Ltd.

Manestreet Hair

Marcia Geological Consulting Ltd.

Martin Charlton Communications

McDonald Heavy Duty Mechanical Ltd.

McDougall Gauley LLP

Medical Arts Pharmacy

Meewasinota CRF

Metric Design

Michelangelo

MING HAI INC.

Mitchell & Sons Farm Ltd.

Montana's BBQ & Bar

Montana's Cookhouse Saloon Morris Interactive

Newrock Developments

Next Level Framing

Normandale Holdings Ltd.

Novozymes BioAg Limited

NSC Minerals Ltd.

O'Reilly Insurance and Financial Services - The Cooperators

Oakville Investment Properties

Outbound Distribution Inc.

Pally Performance Products

Penney Murphy and Associates

Pet Planet (University Heights)

PFM Capital (2010) Inc.

Pozniak Safety Associates Inc. Prairie Meats

Raj Manek Mentorship Program

Raymond James Ltd. Redworks Communications Reed Security

Refreshen Web Design

Rempel Engineering & Management Ltd.

Richland Agriculture Group Corp.

Rivercity Innovations Ltd.

Riverside Country Club

Rock & Bloom

Royal Hotel Group

Ryan Mollberg iSask Mortgage Brokers Inc.

Sandyridge Gas & Grocery

Saskatchewan Metis Economic Development Corp.

Saskatoon City Hospital Foundation

Saskatoon Council on Aging

Saskatoon Disaster Services

Saskatoon Fire Department

Saskatoon Inn & Conference Centre

Saskatoon Police Service

Saskatoon Public Schools Foundation

Saskatoon Smiles

Saskatoon Wash World Saskatoon Wildlife Federation Saskatoon Youth for Christ

Schick Kelly Drafting Ltd. Scoular Canada Ltd.

Seiferling Law

SGO Mining Inc. Sharie Ryon

Shaw Cablesystems GP Showtime Glass Inc. Sik Pics Productions

SKN Med Spa Sound Lounge by tBone SRG Chartered Professional Accountants

St. Petro Mohyla Institute Standard Rail Corporation STARS

Staybridge Suites SaskatoonUniversity

Strong Roots Consulting Sugar Spa YXE

Suncatcher Solar Ltd. Sunrise Foods International Inc.

Syntrex Technologies Inc.

Territorial

The Bassment

The Bridge on 20th Fellowship Centre Inc.

The Coachman

The Keg Steakhouse & Bar

The Lighthouse Supported Living Inc.

The Princess Shop

The Rotary Clubs of Saskatoon

The Wireless Age

Thrive Wealth Management

Thurber Engineering Ltd.

Topcon Agriculture Canada, Inc.

Towriss & Associates Workforce Solutions Ltd.

Triumph Construction Inc.

Varsity Dental Group

Verdesian Life Sciences

VeriGrain Sampling Inc.

Virtus Group Chartered Professional Accountants & Business Advisors LLP

Wanuskewin Heritage Park

Warm 'n' Cozy Care Inc.

Weidner Investment Services

Westbridge Capital Ltd.

Western Carpet One

William Joseph Communications Inc.

Willowgrove Medical Group

Wilma Poole Registered Massage Therapist

Wilton Academy of Music Inc.

Wolfecroft Signs Ltd.

Zee Medical Service Co.

“We are proud member of the Chamber. Being a new upstart business, with its first location opening in Saskatoon during the pandemic, we felt it imperative to forge connections to the city’s business community and join a network of connection and support that the Chamber represents. Our business plans, including expansion to the downtown core in 2023 added urgency to us having a conduit of connection present and available. This project has met with much fanfare from the community, with the city finally realizing its downtown grocery store after so many years without. Having such robust support from the Chamber has been invaluable. We value the relationships, access to talent and knowledge, and the partnership of this great organization. Chris Brychun, Director of Retail Operations, Pitchform Market + Kitchen

Joel Pedersen / Fitness 2J2

The Kent Smith-Windsor Award was presented to Joel Pedersen at the 26th Raj Manek Memorial Banquet. As the name suggests, the award is presented to honor Kent Smith-Windsor who retired from the Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce as the Executive Director after 21 years. The award is presented to a high-potential individual expected to achieve senior leadership in the community. Someone who has acquired considerable experience as a leader, has the leadership ability and strong interpersonal skills to contribute to the business community. This individual must have earned respect from the community for their workplace

Members In The News

through their involvement in the community and has made leadership contributions to help other entrepreneurs.

Joel Pedersen, Founder of Fitness 2J2, First Nations community based, socially responsible health & wellness company was selected for this prestigious award.

Joel and his company have been to more than 40 First Nation and Metis communities over the past eleven years, providing programming to more than 40,000 youth and adults.

Making a direct impact to the vitality of our communities, by empowering and inspiring people of all ages and abilities; through fitness programming, and mentoring fitness leaders for community sustainment.

Joel’s background in leadership and business is very diverse; he served with the Saskatoon Police Service holding several internal leadership positions. Retired after 25 years of service reaching the rank and position of Detective Sergeant.

Joel also served with the Canadian Armed Forces, in the Army Reserves attaining the rank of Chief Warrant Officer. He has been working directly with corporate business and non-profit sectors for the past eleven years, building relationships to further the growth of Fitness 2J2 and Security 2J2 both in the province and nationally. Joel is member of the board of directors of the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce, EGADZ, and Last Post Fund. Congratulations Joel for winning this very prestigious award! www.fitness2j2.com

that have torques of 50,000 and 100,000 ft.lb, we offer other heavy-duty machinery for hydraulic shops and heavy-duty repair shops. We also manufacture automated honing machines, hydraulic cylinder rod polishers, and hydraulic test rig for pumps and motors.

allSaskatchewan.com

Hundreds and hundreds of business people are turning to allSaskatchewan.com every morning to read the province's most exclusive and in-depth business news coverage.

Saskatchewan Editor Alex MacPherson, a part-owner of the company, heads up an investigative news team working from newsrooms in Regina and Saskatoon to produce a strong line-up of diverse and detailed local business news stories.

Since 2021, they have created a searchable archive of over 2,300 exclusive news articles, largely focusing on the business personalities behind the news.

The independent publication covers sectors like development, professions, retails and restaurants, transportation, oil, gas and agriculture and much more.

People working in a sector where local knowledge is important can check out a sample issue on the website, or sign up for $15 per 4 week billing cycle with no obligation to continue.

This is good old fashioned balanced journalism written by professional journalists....and it is online.

Mikes Hydraulics Sales and Service Ltd. HYDRAULITECHS

Our story started in late 2019 when a company from Vancouver Island called us regarding the machine that we fabricated for our own operation. This machine was on our website. We fabricated the same machine for this company soon after. It was an eye-opener for us to see that we have some unique machines that can be sold to hydraulic shops like ours.

In addition to hydraulic cylinder repair benches

During the past year and a half, we have shipped our equipment to 15 countries across North and South America, Europe, Australia, and Africa. We have expanded to a second location in Saskatoon to meet the demand. In early 2023, we are moving into a new 25,000 sq. ft. facility to manage all our operations under one roof.

Our local business section has grown rapidly thanks to having these machines inhouse, allowing us to serve many sectors in Saskatoon and Saskatchewan. Now we are the most well-equipped hydraulic shop in the province and moving to a big facility will give us more opportunity to connect directly

with mining and construction industries in the province and Canada.

We have been nominated for the 2022 SABEX Award for Growth and for Entrepreneurship. We have also been nominated for Export by EDC and STEP.

Abe Eazadi and Abes Eslami, owners of the business, came to Saskatoon under the SINP program in 2013. As a result, they are setting an example for newcomers who are looking for opportunities in Saskatchewan, and they advocate for more programs to attract and retain entrepreneurs in the province.

www.mikeshydraulics.ca

www.hydraulitechs.com

Members In The News

Morris Interactive

Morris Interactive, in partnership with Mosaic, IMII, Gabriel Dumont Institute, and Cowessess First Nation have collaborated to develop a potash pre-employment course for young First Nations, Metis and Inuit individuals, called, Digital Transformation in Potash Mining. The pilot project, delivered on Cowessess First Nation, was followed up by a GDI Edition delivered in Saskatoon, Treaty 6 Territory and Homeland of the Metis, in late September, 2022. The number of applications for the GDI Edition exceeded expectations, with 232 driven individuals applying to join the program, and twelve ultimately securing a spot in the course.

Mosaic recently announced their ongoing commitment to the program through a $1 million dollar funding contribution!

The course involves 8 weeks of in-class learning, mine tours, and industry presentations, followed by a two-week practicum at Mosaic’s Colonsay mine site. The pilot completed with nine graduates, five of which have already secured mine-specific careers.

The program, in pursuit of Call to Action 92; Economic Reconciliation, brings together a very diverse range of organizations, Nations, and partners to achieve one goal – student success.

Real Canadian Property Management Professionals

In the last year a lot has changed at Real Canadian Property Management Professionals (RPMP). From moving through a pandemic, expanding the local team, to the local Broker/Owner taking a national leadership position with Real Property Management Canada you might say change has been the only constant. As a housing provider in the residential rental market RPMP provides professional property management to real estate investors in the Saskatoon area.

Rock & Bloom

Rock & Bloom is a top-tier brand design studio that leaves a lasting impact on growing businesses. We take an authentic approach to every project we touch, creating killer brands that shape perceptions, build audiences, and drive sales.

Rock & Bloom has been privileged to work with a long list of amazing brands over the last 10 years, from agricultural giants to Silicon Valley tech startups, to your favourite local small businesses. From brand strategy to website launch - and everything in betweenwe’re here to help businesses deliver a brand that packs a powerful punch.

In addition to Rock & Bloom’s studio work, we

offer immersive, educational, and fully funded brand workshops, tailored to the needs of local business owners, entrepreneurs, non-profit directors, and senior-level decision makers. Our workshop focuses on really getting to know your brand - and know it well. You’ll learn how to solve business challenges through the lens of your brand, and how to rise above the competition. But you won’t just be learning these things - you’ll be applying them directly to your business. Our next workshop takes place in November and is an incredible opportunity to level up your business. We hope to see you there! www.workshop.rockandbloom.com

Carla Browne, Broker/Owner was appointed as President of Real Property Management Canada based out of Vancouver this year with a vision to lead the industry with technology and marketing solutions to create wealth & redefine the way you think about property management. Her local franchise has been a top office across Canada consistently and was named both Rookie of the Year in 2015 & Franchise of the Year in 2018. This year she expanded her franchise in Saskatoon and formed an all women rockstar team in an often-male dominated space. With a strong belief in giving back to the community that supports you RPMP made a commitment to the Canadian Mental Health Association, which was chosen as the RPM national charity of choice earlier in 2022. Covid really highlighted the importance of housing and the direct correlation between mental health to housing and safety. Most recently the team in Saskatoon was the top fundraiser in the Shoppers Drug Mart Run for Women event held this summer in support of mental health. Carla is passionate about the property management industry right across Canada but her roots will always remain here in Saskatoon.

Members In The News

Medical Spa | Skn Med Spa

A modern, luxurious Med Spa where medical aesthetics and client relationships are prioritized. Here at SKN, we believe in the safety and satisfaction of our clients.

Giving back to the community has always been a priority when we created SKN Med Spa. However, finding the right channel was a little overwhelming. As a new business operating during a pandemic, it has been a little disheartening trying to make a difference that didn't involve strictly giving financial donations. That is why we created the SKN Initiative. It was a way for us to make personal connections with individuals who have struggled with self-harm, and to help give some hope and confidence back into their lives.

It is said that you are best equipped to help the person you used to be, and I (Shereen) feel very strongly that our business is meant to do more for this world than to simply help others "look good." We want to change the world one relationship at a time.

SREDA

On August 9, SREDA proudly presented the second annual Wanda Hunchak Leadership Award to Joe Gill, partner at McKercher LLP

Barristers & Solicitors. This award celebrates emerging leaders in the Saskatoon Region business community who demonstrate strong volunteerism and use their voice to effect positive change and support to the local economy.

Joe is passionate about helping Saskatoon’s tech community thrive, not only through his legal counsel, but also his countless hours of service on boards such as the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce, Ideas Inc., and his role as lawyer-in-residence for both Co.Labs and Cultivator.

“I am extremely honored to be the recipient of the 2022 Wanda Hunchak Leadership Award,” said Gill. “I have been fortunate to spend many years helping entrepreneurs build, grow, and scale their start-ups within Saskatchewan and beyond. I count myself

Saskatoon Council on Aging

Like many organizations, the Saskatoon Council on Aging [SCOA] adapted to the challenging pandemic environment. We delivered programs online and supported older adults to learn new technologies to stay connected with their community. With new inspiration, SCOA resumes in person programming as well as online opportunities this fall. The Caregiver Information and Support Centre is expanding and features learning and networking prospects for informal caregivers.

Seniors Neighbourhood Hub Clubs – Free monthly social groups for 55 plus Lifelong Learning – Art, writing, technology, financial literacy

SCOA Globe Walk – Free fitness program from January to April Explore the latest products and services for 55 plus at Spotlight on Seniors, October 4

lucky to spend each day working with outstanding people trying to change the world. It continues to be a daily journey of curiosity, storytelling, and problem-solving, all-in service of those who dare to dream big. I ultimately hope my small efforts have assisted the entrepreneur community to craft a world-class ecosystem for the builders of tomorrow.”

“Joe is the picture of strong leadership and foundational support for the Saskatoon Region’s start-up community,” said Alex Fallon, SREDA’s CEO. “His unwavering commitment to equitable access to legal advice and passion for seeing these companies grow and succeed makes him the perfect recipient. SREDA is honored to celebrate Joe’s authenticity and dedication to building an innovative economy.”

Nominations for the next Wanda Hunchak Leadership Award will open in 2023. www.sreda.com

at TCU Place. Mingle with friends and enjoy lively entertainment.

Nifty 50s “Zoomer Style” November 4 at the WDM features talented performers 55 plus competing for the grand prize. If you like classic rock and roll and pop tunes from the 50s era, this is the show for you.

The Beyond the Pandemic Project surveyed older adults aged 55+ from Saskatoon and area to study impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the lives of older adults. Study results will be released later this fall.

Sandy Shores Resort

Rauncie Murdoch says Sandy Shores Resort has grown FAST in six years of operation welcoming many families to the community. The amenities grew with the resort which now has beautiful parks, shoreline trails, beaches, swim docks, playground, and a sport court. A water treatment plant was commissioned in 2018. The area has over 60 cabins and homes and a population of over 400 residents. Rauncie’s vision and passion for the project along with the exceptional services and location have produced the rapid growth.

Members In The News

Planning for a marina began 2017. In 2022 the marina opened and welcomed the public to the new facility! It is the first new marina on Lake Diefenbaker in decades. The inland marina has 200 slips for annual lease, most slips have power. There is a fileting shack and washrooms. A boat launch, fuel, marina marketplace is planned. It is a sheltered area for sailing or boating. The marina was constructed with 5 years of planning, 380 construction days, a total of 380,000 m3 of earth was excavated (1.5x more than material excavated for the Mosaic stadium), the surface area of the marina bottom is 195m x 85m or 16,575m2 equivalent to 2 CFL football fields, the largest excavated depth was 20m, over 100 people worked on the project, and over 35,500 hours or 4 years of man hours have been invested to date.

Lake Diefenbaker is a world class sailing destination, has 26 species of fish, and home to several world fishing records including for Rainbow Trout and Burbot. Watch Sandy Shores Resort & Marina for more exciting projects in the future!

www.sandyshoresresort.ca

visiting the province in a wide range of situations. “For example, should they need information or have difficulties with the renewal of their identification card or passport, I can help them navigate the process and obtain the right forms and documentation,” says Véronique.

In case of death, the Honorary Consul can assist with legal formalities to repatriate the deceased to France. She can also help if a French citizen find themselves in trouble with the law, arrested or incarcerated in Saskatchewan. And in times of national French elections, Véronique would help French citizens establish proxies to vote.

True Potential Health Services

True Potential Health Services is a multidisciplinary health care clinic operating since 2008, and over the past few years we’ve been listening to your health challenges due to increased demands on our healthcare system.

To address these increased challenges, we have two new initiatives:

River of Health Reskill program - designed to help foster a healthy, happy, and energetic workplace. This program will empower employees with the tools to support them on their path to mental and physical wellness and resiliency post COVID.

Employees will learn how stress manifests both emotionally and physically and will gain practical strategies to implement immediately, including a 3-week clean eating meal plan (eligible for 100 percent coverage through Re-Skill Saskatchewan Training Subsidy).

New Honorary Consul of France in Saskatoon

Véronique Loewen, owner of Verolingo Communications, is the new Honorary Consul of France in Saskatoon. In this volunteer role appointed by the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs and accredited by Global Affairs Canada, Véronique reports to the French General Consulate in Vancouver.

Véronique’s duties include assisting French citizens established in Saskatchewan or

Véronique’s role can also be useful to Canadian citizens, corporations, post-secondary educational institutions, provincial and local governments and others as a liaison with the French consulate in Vancouver and the embassy in Ottawa. “I can help connect Saskatchewan people and organizations with the appropriate contacts and guide them through administrative processes if required,” adds Véronique.

“It is an honour to be asked to take on this role to officially represent my birth country within my country of adoption. As a dual citizen of France and Canada, I look forward to being of assistance to people in Saskatchewan,” concludes Véronique. www.verolingo.com

River of Health - Skill Building ProgramTrue Potential Health Services Saskatoon Vitamin shots and IV therapy -Nutritional IV and intramuscular therapy has gained popularity because it can deliver vitamins and minerals in greater amounts than would be able to be absorbed by our digestive tracts, and over shorter periods of time. Sometimes, despite eating well and taking supplements, certain health conditions can make it hard to get all the vitamins and minerals we need for our overall energy and immune system. IV’s can also help athletes with improved recovery, and can be useful for travellers, both before and after the trip!

Check with your insurance provider as many private health care plans have coverage for naturopathic health care services. www.truepotentialhealth.com

Non-Profit Organizations

Bridge City Bicycle Co-op

Founded in 2012 by a crew of cyclists and bicycle repair enthusiasts, the Bridge City Bicycle Co-op (BCBC) is a volunteer-run, non-profit cooperative that offers a drop-in workspace, tool and supplies, and participatory bicycle maintenance education; where youth and adults can come and learn how to fix their own bicycles or build a bicycle using donated frames and parts. The BCBC is open and accessible to all. Membership is open to all individuals for free.

BCBC envisions everyone having access to a bicycle. We will foster a sustainable cycling culture where everyone will feel connected to their bicycle by integrating cycling into their daily lives, while attaining the knowledge and opportunity to sustain its use. We hope to help build a strong, healthy, and environmentally sound community. We offer affordable, pay-what-you-can bikes that we teach you how to repair. If you already have a bike that needs repairs, we have volunteers that can teach you the repairs needed. We offer used parts for paywhat-you-can. We also have an online store where we sell ready-to-go bicycles at a fixed price for fundraising purposes.

Located at 905 20th St W between the

CNYC and the Ukraine Church. Our Open Shop Hours are every Tuesday from 6:30pm8:30pm and Saturday from 11am - 3pm. Our Women and Queer Open Shop Hours are every second and fourth Monday of the month from 6:30pm-8:30pm.

We have a wide range of volunteers, from retired people to university students, and everyone in-between. Our members are people from all socioeconomic backgrounds.

We are always looking for people to join our volunteer team. We offer hands-on training prior to volunteering so you are comfortable and knowledgeable on basic bicycle mechanics before your first shift. If you are interested and want more information about volunteering, please go to our website www.bridgecitybicyclecoop.com/volunteer

O P E N

By Jason Aebig, CEO Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce

All right. We’re biased. At the heart of every Chamber – and every community – are hundreds of small and medium size businesses that make the place tick. When they open their doors and turn on the lights every morning, cities and towns come alive. You can almost hear the economy’s gears starting to turn when they kickstart the day. The grease on those gears is the hard work and dedication of business owners who care as much about their customers, employees and neighbours as they care about themselves.

Photo by: Blake Wisz

While many of us appreciate and understand these facts, it’s good that we have “Small Business Month” every October to highlight the critical role small businesses play in our city. Some impacts are obvious; others are less known. In all cases, the impact is huge. All out of proportion to their size, the ripple effects of their business decisions and activities are felt across the economy.

#10 Good Jobs

Small businesses are job creators. With those new jobs comes wages and spending power, which translates into dollars circulating in our economy and new customers for other sectors. How big is the impact? Small businesses pay out over 6.8 billion (that’s with a B) in wages and salaries, with one-third of all workers employed by a small business. That’s thousands of people with money in their pockets – shopping, spending and investing right here at home –thanks to their small business employer.

#9 GDP

Small businesses produce, sell, and export stuff. Lots of stuff. The small business sector alone represents 29% of Saskatchewan’s gross domestic product with Saskatoon home to a quarter of our province’s small and medium size enterprises (the highest of any city or region in Saskatchewan). Out of the SMEs that export goods, a majority make Saskatoon their home.

#8 Community Safety and Vibrancy

Small businesses are big contributors to the safety and vibrancy of our downtowns and neighbourhoods. Their everyday activity attracts a steady flow of customers, suppliers and deliveries, adding more “eyes and ears” on our streets and helping people feel safer and more secure. Their well-lit establishments, as well as their security cameras and personnel, also contribute to street safety. While their presence doesn’t eliminate criminal activity entirely, we’ve all seen what happens to districts or neighbourhoods when their small businesses go dark. Small retailers, restaurants and street level office buildings make all the difference.

#7 Labour Force Development

Small businesses offer a ramp into the job market. For young people, recent graduates and new Canadians, getting that first job in a small business can help them gain knowledge and experience they might not be able to get at a larger organization or company. The soft skills they gain as members of a team or working with the public, in addition to the hard skills they learn on the job like scheduling, managing money or supervising people, are building blocks they can leverage to pursue job opportunities or career paths down the road.

#6 More Entrepreneurs

Small businesses offer multiple paths to business ownership. The most obvious one is starting a small business from scratch based on a sound business plan and good understanding of the market. But the sector offers many other routes to the big chair, including franchising, working in a business and transitioning to ownership, or acquiring a viable business through an outright purchase. What’s more: it offers people opportunities for leadership and management among those who have been traditionally under-represented in business circles, including women and BIPOC skilled professionals. A thriving, diverse business community starts with small businesses that make it possible.

“

Whatever their product or service – or whether they operate on main street or online – there are big reasons to love small business. If you’re one of them, here’s to you. Your small business makes us all stronger and better.

“

Photo by: pressfoto

#5 Can Do Spirit

Small businesses contribute to a community’s enterprising spirit. The more small and medium size businesses operating in any given city, the more often you hear people refer to that community as having an “enterprising” “business friendly” or “can do” attitude. Even better? It feeds itself, inspiring new ventures and other entrepreneurs to enter the market, start something new, or scale what’s already there. Saskatoon is widely seen as an “entrepreneurial city” thanks to a community that has always valued the role of small businesses in our economy, and generations of small business owners who have always supported, mentored and encouraged each other.

#4 Competitiveness

Small businesses keep our economy on the leading edge. They are creative, nimble, curious and eager. They see market opportunities others ignore or leave behind. They tap the latest trends and technologies to carve a path forward. Look no further than Saskatoon’s growing tech sector and the dozens of start-ups and small businesses creating jobs, attracting investment, and growing roots in our city. There are just over 8,000 tech professionals currently employed, across 65-75 businesses, including emerging giants like Solido, Vendasta and 7Shifts. In addition to the IP, new products, and jobs they’re creating, they’re attracting talented, young people to our city. In the economy of the future, Saskatoon is well-positioned to compete and win thanks to small business entrepreneurs ready to take risks and jump on opportunities.

#3 Community Support

Look no further than rink boards, event programs and donor lists across our city to appreciate how much small and medium sized businesses contribute to local causes, charities and non-profit organizations in our community. Your team needs jerseys? Food bank running low? Shelters need supplies? Kids going hungry? Small businesses and their employees step up every time. They

volunteer and raise money during work hours – which are often unrecorded costs to the business – to respond to community appeals and help their neighbours in need. The total amount of time and dollars small businesses contribute to our quality of life in Saskatoon is incalculable and staggering. Without them, much would be left undone.

#2 Hyper Local

The economic impact of a small business is hyper-local, direct and immediate. A high percentage of its workforce will be local. Many of its suppliers will be local. Its revenue will pay for local utilities and services, and contribute local property and provincial income taxes, with its employees and owners doing the same. Its profit will also pay the wages of employees who become customers of other businesses operating in the community. It’s a virtuous circle of economic activity where a good portion of the money generated here, stays here, and has an immediate, positive effect on our city.

#1 Service

Small businesses aim to serve. It’s heard in the greeting you get when you walk through the door or seen in their efforts to exceed your expectations. They often open early and stay late to get us what we need. At the height of the pandemic, they doubled their efforts to remain open, keep their employees and customers safe, and provide goods and services to support us and our families. They went to work when many of us were too afraid or unsure to leave home. Our economy stayed open because they stayed open – and that kind of commitment is something worth celebrating.

This month, take a minute to reflect on our small businesses and their impact on our lives and livelihoods. And to all our local job creators, risk takers, innovators and entrepreneurs: thank you. We’re stronger and better because you’re here.

Photo by: Austin Distel

Supportive Districts to Grow Saskatoon’s Small Businesses

By Véronique Loewen

We all find ways to support many of the small businesses that are the heart of our city and community; and every year we celebrate them in October during Small Business Month. Yet we often fail to recognize that it also takes a village to grow a business. The assistance they receive from organizations dedicated to the promotion of business around the city’s many neighbourhoods can go unnoticed. Here we are featuring Saskatoon’s Business Improvement Districts and the work they do to attract and support small businesses. These are the stories of organizations lead by business owners for the development and growth of the business community. It’s an opportunity to highlight some of the long-standing businesses in each district and some of the new entrants in these business corridors.

Images: Saskatoon Chamber

Riversdale’s Visible Revitalization

When Randy Pshebylo started in his position as executive director of the Riversdale Business Improvement District (RBID) in 2007 (he has been working on 20 th Street West for 42 years and has served the RBID since 1992 in one capacity or another, member, board member, chair, administrator), he used to bring greetings on behalf of Riversdale’s 169 businesses. Today, his greetings are on behalf of 321 businesses.

Riversdale has seen a rapid growth over the past 20 years and continues to attract a young and dynamic group of entrepreneurs interested in acquiring properties to turn them into owner-occupied commercial buildings. The affordability of the area provides opportunities for new ventures to enter the market and fill commercial property vacancies, which reached a 42% vacancy rate in the late 1990s. “Today, this neighbourhood is quickly becoming a destination to enjoy a growing list of diverse culinary experiences and locally

owned niche-businesses such as Pig & Pantry or Soul Paper,” says Randy.

For many years, this district of Saskatoon’s reputation was as a “rough” neighbourhood, not conducive to establishing businesses. Since the early 2000s, several factors have contributed to the revitalization of the Riversdale commercial corridor. For example, for a time the city and the RBID created the Municipal Enterprise Zone (MEZ) program to help the District emerge from past negative stereotyping and compete fairly with other neighbourhoods to attract businesses.

The RBID also put in motion the 2001 plan to create a business incubator (now Ideas Inc.) and secure a farmers’ market in southeast Riversdale – now River Landing. In addition, the Façade and streetscape improvement programs helped revive aging and, in some cases, vacant buildings, making the area more attractive and providing a welcoming atmosphere for business owners and their customers. More recently, the RBID froze its business levy to assist entrepreneurs in establishing their storefronts in Riversdale. The now four-year freeze, forced the RBID to find efficiencies within its existing budget to keep on task with its mission to assist the development of a strong commercial district. “Ribbon cuttings are great, but I think that celebrating business anniversaries are more important. It shows that these entrepreneurs have overcome challenges. And I believe that the RBID has contributed to their success,” remarks Randy.

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Business longevity well represented in Riversdale

opened Pop Wine Bar Ltd. Air Canada’s Enroute magazine has already named it one of its Top 30 new restaurants. Then on June 4th, Greg Sparrow opened Vintage Iron Cycle Saskatoon featuring some of the most stylish and versatile electric bikes. And on July 25th, Moto Japanese Kitchen & Bar opened officially as Chef Jason Sung’s second restaurant in the district just behind his Sushi Raku known for his authentic cuisine.

Riversdale is emerging as a true “design district” in many niche markets such as indoor and outdoor living design, tech design, beverage and culinary design, artistic design, and more. Yet, it retains its friendly small-town atmosphere, where it is not unusual for instance, to see a handwritten sign taped to the front window saying, “back in an hour, had to take my dog to the vet.”

“It’s really invigorating to see young entrepreneurs choose this historic district to start their businesses. The collaborative nature of these small business owners is really nice to see. For example, the cooperation between 9 Mile Legacy Brewing Company and nearby restaurants such as Odd Couple is one of many. These businesses are very supportive of each other and committed to the success and improvement of our district,” concludes Randy.

Thinking of long-lasting businesses and their owners, the first one that comes to mind on 20th Street West is Great Western Furniture Co. Ltd. The business has been in operation since 1905 and in its current location since 1957. Walter and Mary Kohanski have owned the business for 65 years, they are fixtures in the neighbourhood. Most days it is not unusual to catch Walter washing his store windows, picking up litter on the storefront or sweeping the sidewalk winter and summer. And he is well known for his daily pastime, creating microscale farm equipment models, including some that run with electric motors, all from scrap materials.

Several other businesses are of the same vintage. City Carpet, established in 1914, is now owned by Tom Dawes, the grandson of the founder. And Landa Auto Body, on Avenue C opened in 1908, originally as a blacksmith shop, then as Landa Carriage Works and finally as Landa Auto Body.

Alongside these multi-decade locally owned businesses, hundreds of new ventures have sprung. In the spring of this year alone, and within ninety days of each other, three businesses have opened their doors. They are as diverse as their products. On April 5th, Chef Christie Peters, who already owns the established and acclaimed Primal Italian Restaurant,

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Sutherland’s Transformation from Railway Town to Business District

With seventy-two businesses operating, the district boasts one of the lowest commercial tax assessment structures and is working with the City of Saskatoon to ensure that the district is a strong contributor to the city’s Integrated Growth Plan. The SBID recently completed a series of streetscape projects that have changed the look and atmosphere within its business community. “This makeover is already attracting boutique and locally owned stores that fit the area’s character,” remarks Lloyd.

Although the pandemic was not kind to several businesses, it did not stop new ventures to establish themselves in the district over the past couple of years such as Nomad Therapies, Twig & Bloom and Today’s Technology Management Group. And some long-established businesses took the opportunity to expand their operations, this was the case for Rayner Agencies. “The sale of the Sutherland Hotel to the Wasylenko family, owners of Rayner Agencies, is the perfect example of the repurposing of an existing historical property while allowing an established business to continue to grow in our business community,” says Lloyd.

“Less than sixty years ago, Sutherland was a small railway town on the outskirts of Saskatoon,” says Lloyd Moker, Executive Director of the Surtherland Business Improvement District (SBID). “These days its proximity to the University of Saskatchewan makes it one of the most vibrant business districts and neighbourhoods with its young population.

Image by: Saskatoon Chamber

Rayner Agencies Calling Sutherland Home for 74 Years

Started as a home-based business by Lorne and Ruth Rayner in 1948, Rayner Agencies Ltd. has operated in the Sutherland neighborhood from the beginning. Shortly after Norbert and Natalie Wasylenko purchased the brokerage in 1971, they established their offices on Central Avenue where it remains today, although they did move a few blocks up the road on a few occasions over the years as the business grew and they needed more space. “We always strive to create a great customer experience for our clients,” explains Sheldon Wasylenko, now co-owner with his brother Shawn.

“We offer a wide range of products from competitive and reputable insurers and expert insurance advice. We also invested in technologies that allow people to interact with Rayner Agencies however they are most comfortable without ever having to visit the office if they don’t need to,” Sheldon explains.

Rayner’s early investment in technology served them well during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although they were considered an essential services business, therefore not subject to the in-person services shutdowns that affected many other businesses, people were hesitant to come into their office. Today, their office is back to normal and their staff is enjoying seeing new and existing customers stop by for their vehicle and other insurance needs. “As a family business, family values are what defines us and our culture. We support our community and in turn our community has helped us grow into one of Saskatoon’s largest and most trusted brokerages. We provide professional and personalized services, which is as important today as it was when the business started nearly 75 years ago,” concludes Sheldon.

Twig and Bloom Growing in Sutherland

Joanne Morris, owner of Twig and Bloom, launched the business in December 2016 as an online floral studio based out of her home to respond to the trendy increase in online purchases across industries and markets, and in particular with young brides shopping for their wedding florals from their phones. Her business model allowed her to launch as a self-funded start-up with no outside investors. As the business grew with ongoing subscriptions and the doubling of wedding florals bookings, as well as the increased demand for floral design workshops, Joanne looked for a brick-and-mortar building to house her studio. “Just recently, in September, we moved into 810 Central Avenue. People may recognize the address as it was the old Sutherland Hotel. We love being in our new location. Just being in this community has been wonderful. We’re surrounded by beautiful architecture and light, Sheldon and the Wasylenko family have done a great job renovating it. This building is absolutely stunning and we’re happy to be here,” says Joanne.

Twig and Bloom built a recognizable brand online through social media platforms prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, and by streamlining their easy digital ordering system, and even offering floral workshops via Zoom the pandemic. “We would drop off on their doorsteps everything the workshop participants would need, and we would instruct over zoom. The feedback was amazing, the flowers and plants brought some joy to people at a pretty depressing time,” recalls Joanne.

Twig and Bloom makes a point of looking for cooperation and partnerships with local like-minded businesses so they can elevate each others’ brand, whether it be flower growers, photographers to capture their creations or events. Now, in her new physical location, their online presence hasn’t diminished, it is still their main market, and Joanne is already thinking of the future as she has her sight set on the potential of franchising in the new year.

Photo supplied

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Mayfair Building on Success

The 33rd Street Business Improvement District (BID), like its counterparts, has for mission to promote the interests of the district’s business owners, property owners and residents and foster economic growth and stability within the district. It is this mission that prompted the organization to launch the 33rd Street Fair nine years ago. Each year, the 33rd Street BID shuts the street down to throw a party and showcase the businesses that call this street home! Over 4,000 visitors enjoy great food, live music, children's entertainment, numerous vendors, and discover many treasures on 33rd Street. “The success of our annual street fair is amazing. This events gets more popular and bigger every year. It’s the opportunity for people to discover or re-discover our district and to pick up unique items or to try something new,” says Judy Denham, Chairperson of the 33rd Street BID and owner/manager of the local Saskatoon Flag Shop.

33rd Street Emerging as a Vintage and Antique Shops District

This September visitors at the 33rd Street Fair would have discovered the street’s newest business, 4th Quarter Vintage Clothing. Owners Tina and Kyle Marud started the business

online back in 2017 and opened their first physical store in December 2020 downtown Saskatoon. This august they moved their location to 33rd Street. “When we were looking to expand, we knew that we wanted to be on 33rd Street alongside other vintage and antique shops,” says Tina.

What started off as a hobby has turned into a full-time job. 4th Quarter Vintage Clothing now offers over 3,000 genuine vintage items and they are constantly renewing their stock to keep up with demand. Tina explains, “Genuine vintage means that every item is at least 20 years old, unlike new clothing these are not as easy to acquire. It’s not like ordering off a catalogue and having them shipped from a warehouse in China. We realized that people want to stand out and be unique, its hard to do that when everything is mass produced.”

Tina also points out the environmental impact of the clothing industry, saying that “the fashion industry is the second largest polluting industry, responsible for 10% of global pollution. Continuing to always buy new is not environmentally responsible, that means the second-hand industry is bound to grow.”

Having started their business online well before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, they adapted quickly. “During the restrictions period of the pandemic, the number of people shopping through our online store went up. Now that people are able to shop in person, sales online have gone down, but they are still greater than they were before the pandemic as many people’s shopping habits have changed,” says Tina.

Whether on 33rd Street or on vacation, the vintage community is never too far from Tina and Kyle’s mind, “We always visit other vintage stores when visiting other cities; it’s our favourite part of travelling. It’s great how clothing can connect us all together,” tina concludes.

For many decades Mayfair neighbourhood’s busiest street has been and remains 33rd Street. Counting about 69 businesses today, this number has been steady over the years – when a business closes, another one opens.

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Celebrating 90 Years in Its Original Location

It’s not often that a business can boast celebrating 90 years in its original location - that’s exactly the milestone that Christies Bakery reached this year! The family-owned bakery first opened its doors on 33rd Street in 1932 and waited 78 years before current owners Tracey and Blair Muzzolini opened their second location in the Broadway area in 2010. “Thanks to our wonderful regular customers, our dedicated staff and our incredible family resilience, we keep going. We like to think that our dedication to quality products, our consistency, and our down to earth attitude keep people coming back for more,” says Tracey with a smile.

When mentioning the COVID-19 pandemic, Tracey points out the ongoing uncertainty. Although Christies Bakery was fortunate to hire back most of the staff they had lost during the initial days of the pandemic, staffing remains an issue. “Will we have enough people to work? What is happening with my supply chain? How much more are things going to cost? How is the looming recession going to impact my business?” These are all questions Tracey wrestles with. “Many small businesses did not make it through the pandemic and it left the rest of us feeling vulnerable. Most of us realize that it is important to help each other out where we can for all of us to survive. So, many of us our looking for ways to collaborate to promote our businesses and to build a kind of kinship,” adds Tracey.

“I hope that the wonderful people of Saskatoon continue to support small business by patronizing our stores. And I hope they show kindness to the people who work in small businesses, as frontline customer service people, they have been through a lot, it has taken a toll. The future remains uncertain for many small businesses, but what remains strong is our tenacity to adapt, to persevere and to overcome.”

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Growing Downtown!

says that “Downtown is where these business owners want to be. Everything we do at DTNYXE is about making this district a vibrant and inviting place to be. Downtown offers many reasons for people to come down and visit businesses small and large.”

The recent pandemic was not kind to many Downtown businesses - in particular its nine hotels, restaurants, and retail stores. Yet, in the past two years more businesses have opened their doors than closed in this core district. Although staffing challenges and supply chain delays are impacting some businesses, they continue to show resiliency. Brent

To help promote its district and its many businesses, Downtown offers maps and directories to help local people and visitors, alike, navigate the area. They have a sevenperson Clean Team, enhanced with two summer staff members, to ensure the district remains clean and inviting. Their social media channels provide information about what’s happening in the area and share content and news from the many businesses. DTNYXE is also an advocate and hub of information for business owners. “Our newsletter, which we launched during the pandemic, has become a key method to communicate Downtown-relevant content to our businesses, their employees and anyone interested in what is happening Downtown,” adds Brent.

With about 900 businesses, the Downtown Business Improvement District, or DTNYXE, as its social media followers know it, keeps growing. “There are more businesses today than prior to the pandemic,” says Brent Penner, Downtown Saskatoon’s Executive Director.

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One of the longest operating businesses in Saskatoon started with its Downtown location. Butler Buyers Insurance opened its doors in March 1907, just three months before the Saskatoon Business College started in June 1907. Butler Byers began business investing in real estate and selling insurance. Since the 1930s, their focus has shifted solely to insurance and related products. Beyond their roots solidly planted Downtown Saskatoon, Butler Byers has built longlasting relationships in major cities, small towns and rural communities across the prairies. As a local, family-owned and -operated business that spans four generations, Butler Byers has grown to become one of the largest independent insurance brokers in Western Canada.

The latest addition to Downtown hasn’t quite opened its doors yet. High Key Brewing is expanding and moving its fermenting operation and tap room to Downtown. Moving from the north industrial area, the owners are keen to take advantage of foot traffic and be close to the major festivals that happen throughout the year. They are in the midst of a major renovation of the building they acquired at the corner of 1st Avenue and 23rd Street with plans to open their new taproom and kitchen to the public later this fall.

“With long-standing businesses demonstrating the success of the district, and many new ventures opening their doors, Downtown will continue to be an eclectic and exciting place for businesses to operate and flourish,” concludes Brent.

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Photo supplied

Broadway’s Pedestrian Focus

Broadway’s pedestrian friendly focus has played a large part in its history and these past couple of years at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and now during the recovery. When gathering restrictions were in place, Broadway remained a destination for people to take walks and window shop. Broadway’s businesses survived thanks to people choosing to shop local and thanks to business owners adapting and quickly offering online ordering, doorstep delivery, and private pick-up at their door. Since people have resumed gathering, the BBID has also resumed its support of outdoor entertainment, such as with its diverse summer festivals, and its investment in the commission of murals and outdoor artwork.

Like many other business districts, leases continue to be expensive in the BBID, which poses a challenge for up-and-coming entrepreneurs. However, in keeping with its focus on attracting pedestrians, “to keep the district clean and beautiful, these past couple of years, we provided façade grants to help businesses improve their exteriors. And to help retain businesses in the district, we’ve also offered technology grants so they could invest in equipment or software. Finally, we hosted workshops designed to help empower and retain staff working in small businesses,” explains DeeAnn.

The Broadway BID represents over 150 business and property owners, and amidst the evolution and beautification of this district, many businesses have endured. The oldest of them all in the district is McQuarrie’s Tea & Coffee Merchants.

“Broadway is always evolving. New buildings and businesses have gone up and long-time businesses have invested in renovations. Everyone in the district tries to make Broadway one of the friendliest pedestrian experiences in the city,” says DeeAnn Mercier, Executive Director at the Broadway Business Improvement District (BBID).

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McQuarrie’s Specialty Teas and Coffees for Every Taste

This year marks McQuarrie’s 93rd year in business. “The company started operating in 1929 when Dickson’s Importing hired Russ McQuarrie to operate their outlet at 219 23rd Street East in Saskatoon,” says Adam Anton, Owner of McQuarrie’s Tea & Coffee Merchants.

Coffee has always been the company’s main product. In the early days and in response t the depression, McQuarrie secured contracts with the Saskatchewan government to supply coffee as part of the government’s relief operations. At that time, given coffee shortages and increased costs, Russ McQuarrie would grind coffee and barley together to meet the relief demands. While their distribution operation grew, their retail store was still active as those that could still afford it came into the store to buy pure coffee. This ability to seize opportunities has ensured the business continuity to this day.

Russ bought the business in 1936 and renamed it McQuarrie Ltd. in 1948. By then companies like Nabob and General Foods were dominating the restaurant market, which Russ had entered when he bought the business; it was time for

him to branch out. He ventured into the mobile catering business by purchasing a fleet of catering trucks and moving his operation to 622 Main Street in the early 1950s. By the late 1960s business was booming and Russ had entered yet another market as operator of several city owned concessions at ball parks and swimming pools. He hired John Anton, whose family rented a house on Russ’ farm. John took quickly to the business and by the time Russ retired in 1975, John Anton and Lawrence Magee bought McQuarrie Ltd. The pair moved the retail store to 708 Broadway Avenue, the former home of the Broadway Bakery that had supplied their catering operation, still located on Main Street. In 1983, after Russ’ death, John and Lawrence sold the catering side of the business and grew the retail business by adding the “offices division,” which focused on supplying coffee and brewing equipment to many offices and businesses around Saskatoon. Finally, in 1990 John and Lawrence divided the business. Lawrence took the office supply division and John and his wife Dixie-Lynn kept the retail store front. They each kept McQuarrie’s in the now two separate businesses’ names to honour their origins.

John’s McQuarrie’s Tea & Coffee is now a family owned and operated business. At John and Dixie-Lynn’s retirement, they passed the business on to their sons Evan and Adam. After the untimely passing of his brother Adam became the sole proprietor, but the business continues to employ his wife Kim, his sister Darcey, nephew Curtis, family friend David, and now his son Griffin as a summer part-time employee. And it is not unusual for John to stop by the store and turn the coffee on once in a while, and continue to provide wise counsel to his successors. In keeping with the business’ tradition to seize new opportunities when they arise, the recent COVID-19 pandemic presented both challenges and growth prospects. To accommodate their many customers working from home, they expanded their delivery business by including home delivery. “Since moving to the Broadway district almost 70 years ago, McQuarrie’s has seen many changes on the street and we too have evolved. Through it all we’ve been lucky to be part of this lively community, with great customers and friendly neighbours,” says owner Adam Anton.

Photos supplied

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DIAS Ground & Airborne Geophysics

Wilson's Lifestyle Centre

Great Western Brewing Company

Axis Vac & HDD Services Ltd.

Sponsored by

COMMUNITY IMPACT

Community Living Association Saskatoon Inc Kinsmen Foundation Inc

Love My Mind Mental Health Prairie Harm Reduction

Raj Manek Foundation Saskatoon Zoo Foundation

St Paul’s Hospital Foundation United Way of Saskatoon Saskatoon Open Door Society

Sponsored by

ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Awasis Boutique

Ethical Digital

Clarity Coaching & Development

Hometown Homes

Hope Hair Recovery

Mike's Hydraulics Sales & Services Ltd. Sandy Shores Resort

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

The Saskatoon Club

Champetre County

Meewasin Valley Authority

Remai Modern Saskatchewan Rattlers

Magnus Construction Services Vendasta

Global Infobrokers Inc

S & E Trusted Online Directories Inc

BN Steel & Metals Inc

Riide Holdings Inc

OCTOBER 13

TCU PLACE

Sherwood & Elaine Sharfe

Sponsored by

Here’s what Totally Locally businesses are saying about the YXE Market Hub…

Who doesn’t want their business to get awesome exposure to a valuable local audience?

When the Chamber presented this opportunity to us we leapt at the chance to be featured. We have several divisions at Trusted HQ, including our online Saskatoon directory www.TrustedSaskatoon.com, as well as our full service marketing agency - Trusted Marketing Services. As marketing professionals who invest millions into marketing ourselves and our clients, we understand the value of 3rd party promotion from a local trusted source, and we were over the moon with the video and the associated social promotion. We recommend all local business to pick up the added value offered by a Chamber membership - including being featured on this directory marketplace, surrounded by other great local businesses!

Thank you to the Chamber team.

A unique fresh market

Sara Wheelwright Founder, S & E Trusted Online Directories Inc

Scale up Saskatchewan SME Investment Tax Credit

The Saskatoon Chamber has proposed the creation of a new investment tax credit that is specifically designed to help small business scale and help Saskatchewan compete and win against other jurisdictions.

Access to capital is critical for the development and expansion of Saskatchewan small businesses. Small businesses (1-49 employees) are the backbone of Saskatchewan’s economy, and primary job creators, with nearly 150,000 small businesses operating in the province accounting for more that 98% of businesses and representing nearly one-third of Saskatchewan’s GDP - small businesses are no small contributors. It is clear that our future depends on innovators, creators and independent owner-operators who are primed to grow and ready to scale up.

The proposed investment tax credit would operate on what we call the 50/50/50 approach to make the program competitive with other jurisdictions that have similar programs, as well as to make it easy to activate and promote. This approach would account for a 50% non-refundable Saskatchewan tax credit for individuals and corporations keeping the program attractive to investors. It would be geared towards eligible small businesses with less than 50 FTEs and of those employees a minimum of 50% must be residing in Saskatchewan to ensure that the program is kept local.

The landscape in Saskatchewan is such that current tax credit programs available are designed to attract major investments to the province and drive growth in particular sectors. Currently no tax credit program exists that is tailored specifically for small businesses across all industries.

The Labour Sponsored Venture Capital Corporation Fund allows Saskatchewan residents to invest in small and medium-sized Saskatchewan business by purchasing shares in the funds. These investments help Saskatchewan companies grow, and investors to earn a tax credit. However, access to capital for Saskatchewan’s smallest businesses outside these programs is limited, particularly those in our hospitality industries, which remains a significant barrier to growth.

With the introduction of an incentive tax credit, small businesses that have traditionally leveraged funds from friends and family would have greater access to outside investment while becoming a more attractive investment to these traditional sources of capital. As the business begins to scale up and grow they would become more attractive to existing venture capital programs like those administered by Golden Opportunities Fund.

We know that Saskatchewan’s small businesses are ready to deliver the jobs, productivity and innovation to contribute towards hitting the Government of Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan goals by 2030. The creation of this tax credit would aid in the creation of new jobs, drawing people to the province and growing our economic impact both locally and abroad.

The Chamber is eager to work with the provincial government to help make this tax credit a reality.

“

Access to capital is critical for the development and expansion of Saskatchewan small businesses. Small businesses (1-49 employees) are the backbone of Saskatchewan’s economy, and primary job creators, with nearly 150,000 small businesses operating in the province accounting for more that 98% of businesses and representing nearly one-third of Saskatchewan’s GDP - small businesses are no small contributors. It is clear that our future depends on innovators, creators and independent owner-operators who are primed to grow and ready to scale up.

“

Chamber Happenings

PowerUP! Series

Janet Mercredi form JKM Strategies talked about cash flow money management and how you get paid from your business.

Janet is a business coach, she helps many business owners with her wealth of knowledge in finance consulting and financial advisory. Janet provides training to those businesses in need to break the cycle of living paycheque to paycheque

Re-watch the event here

PowerHouse Series

Decision makers. News makers. Business leaders. This series features those who are shaping our local and provincial economy.

Peter Stoicheff, University of Saskatchewan President & ViceChancellor spoke about the university a post-pandemic world needs.

Chamber on Tap

Big Ideas. Lessons Learned. Advice from those who have started up and started over. It's all on tap in this series of social events where our business community comes together over

cocktails to hear from our city's movers and shakers.

George Leith from Vendasta was Nadine Kanigan's guest for September's Chamber on Tap.

Chamber Happenings

Chamber on Tap

Julianna Tan & Shawnda Blacklock from The Little Market Box had a full house at LB distillers for October's Chamber on Tap!

Chamber on Tap is now available on Spotify, just search for @TheChamberYXE to listen on your own time.

Truth and Reconciliation Walk Rock Your Roots

The Walk for Reconciliation gathered Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples to demonstrate their commitment to truth and reconciliation.

MILESTONE BIRTHDAYS

in our Business Community

Alaska Property Contract Services Ltd.

Benchmark Reliability Services, Inc.

Blue Moose Media

Dr. Leslie Macaskill Medical Prof. Corp.

EJS Equipment Services

Hino Truck Sales

ProActive Fitness Inc.

Oakville Investment Properties

Assante Wealth Management - Briske

Financial Group

CRG Strategies

It’s a Dog’s Life Pet Grooming Inc.

Northend Transport Inc.

Sik Pics Productions

Unaffiliated Hot Tub Home Care

Aspen Fims

Cambiar Consulting

Colliers International

Ellen’s Whole Body Health Ltd.

Impact Diesel Performance Inc.

Rise Air

North Country Customs

Saskatchewan Association of Immigrant Settlement and Integration Agencies

Van Norman Developments Inc.

Wells Construction Inc.

Tuff Turf Growers Ltd .

Apex Project Services Ltd.

NSC Minerals Ltd.

PFM Capital Inc.

Warman Diagnostics Ltd.-The ultrasound Centre

Comfort Suites Saskatoon

Doctors Naylor and Murdoch Optometrists

D’reen’s Catering and Kitchen Socials

Rempel Engineering & Mangement Ltd.

Wallace Klypak Architects Ltd.

Canwest Commercial & Land Corporation

Gensource Potash Corporation

A-1 Trailer & Truck Repair Ltd

CPHR Saskatchewan

Saskatoon Transit

Federated Co-operatives Limited

Prairie Wild Consulting

J.O.B. Heating & Air Conditioning

Saskatoon & Region Home Builders Association Inc.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Saskatoon & area

Louis Aussant

Stephanie Clovechok Director

Saskatoon

Todd Denzin Director Nutrien

Chamber Board of Directors: Working for You!

Shaina Lynden

Gabe Lafond

Claire Marentette Director

Wanda Waldner

Tammy Sweeney Director

Place

Joseph Gill

Vice-Chair McKercher

Tanis Taylor

Colton Wiegers

Joel Pedersen Secretary

Graham Snell

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