2022 SABEX Business Voice Special Edition

Image: Sik Pics

Image: Sik Pics

Energy Returning to City

And I can certainly say over the past few months it has been so energizing to feel the energy returning to our City. Thanks to the resilience and perseverance of all of you. And there is tremendous opportunity on the horizon.

Saskatoon and our region continue to drive both the job and population growth of the Province and have been putting up some impressive numbers nationally as well. As of August of this year, Saskatoon had 20,800 new people employed compared to August of 2021. This is the highest year over year percentage change in Canada.

In the past 5 years Saskatoon has also accounted for 56% of all population growth, with a net growth of just under 19,000 people even through Covid. We continue to welcome people from all over the Province and all over the world to make this City home.

Just yesterday I met with a First Nation looking to make significant investments on a large parcel of land in our City, seeing opportunity here, and the benefit of building a partnership.

A few weeks ago, we hosted people from around the world for the Rare Earths Summit, as we see the first Rare Earth Ingots being processed right here in our City. We have the opportunity to be the second only processing facility in North America, and a crucial link in the global supply chain to meet the global demand for the rare earths needed to build the powerful magnets, electric car parts, LCD screens, and fiber optic cables.

I was glad to join with everyone at SABEX again this year, here on Treaty 6 Territory and the Homeland of the Metis people. As I learn more about the treaties, one concept I think is worth exploring in a context like the SABEX awards, is Miyo-Pimaticiwin. It is the ability to live a good life, to have a good livelihood here on this land. So much in business is about creating livelihoods and opportunity for people.

As we continue to work towards truth and reconciliation, and in addition to Call to Action 92, I encourage you to learn more about how the framework of Miyo-Pimaticiwin can also be a guide for building economic opportunity.

Over the past few years, I know there have been a lot of innovation and gymnastics involved in keeping the SABEX torch going. I remember 2020 - eight people to a room, socially distanced gala, where it took all of TCU place to host about 60 people. I think that was the day after Jason Aebig started his job too. And last year we were packed onto the stage in one of the few events that was able to happen during the Fall months.

Today we can breathe, still with some care, and be grateful we have gotten through everything we have in the past few years. Together.

I’ve also been talking to local and global tech companies about the exploding opportunity they are seeing here on the silicone prairie, driven by the quality of our local talent, our collaborative environment and quality of life.

I have also met with so many entrepreneurs from the newcomer community who have opened and expanded businesses here - providing services, building homes, opening exciting new restaurants, leasing up spaces and creating opportunity for everyone with their hard work and investment.

The SABEX awards continue be a very important way to share stories of success, and to celebrate the accomplishments of people who have worked so hard to build companies and community in Saskatoon.

Thank you to the Chamber team for all of your work pulling this together.

Congratulations to this year’s finalists, to the winners, and to your families and friends who are here and who have supported you along the way.

None of us can build a business or a community on our own. We must keeping working together, and continue to create a community where each of us can bring our best ideas and opportunities forward.

Mayor Charlie Clark, City of Saskatoon

CONGRATULATIONS SK Success Credit to You

and Education and while there is always more work to be done, what you do will help us meet the goals which we have set out in our Plan for Growth.

I’m looking forward to congratulating the winners and I’m especially pleased to be here to honour Sherwood and Elaine Sharfe – this year’s inductees into Saskatoon’s Business Hall of fame.

In business and in life, the Sharfe’s have contributed so much to our community.

They are very deserving of this recognition – and I want to add my personal thanks and congratulations on all that they have achieved in their five decades in business.

As evidence to their commitment to their community I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge their commitment to human rights through their support of CONCENTUS.

I would encourage everyone to reach out to our post-secondary institutions across the province through my office to discuss opportunities for micro-credential programming that can assist you in training new staff or help current employees upskill in a cost and time effective way.

After a few long and difficult years, due to the pandemic, Saskatchewan’s economy has emerged strong and the amount of private capital and investment flowing into our province is staggering.

This is over and above the large investments that Nutrien, Cameco, K+S and Federate Cooperatives are making in their operations.

Your government is making major infrastructure investments in highways, schools and health care – and supporting emerging industries like critical minerals processing, helium and other natural resource extraction.

It was my privilege to bring greetings on behalf of Premier Scott Moe and the Government of Saskatchewan at this year’s SABEX Awards, convened in the heart of Treaty 6 Territory and the home of the Metis.

SABEX is an annual reminder of the strength and success of Saskatoon’s outstanding business community.

Every year, we get a glimpse into the achievements of business and organizations that contribute so much to the life of our city.

If you had any doubt about the strength of this business community, look no further than the 68 finalists up for awards this evening, drawn from the highest number of nominations ever received.

Saskatoon is the engine of our provincial economy and every business represented here tonight deserves our thanks and support.

Thanks to you Saskatchewan is leading the nation in economic growth; growth that has allowed your government to make record investments in Healthcare

Through our public school system and with the support of the Human Rights Commission, CONCENTUS educates and empowers students to understand their rights and to responsible, respectful and participating citizens committed to justice in our multicultural and pluralistic society.

In my current role as Minister of Advanced Education, I see the connection between business and the labour force.

I see the growing need for well-trained employees to address emerging needs in the economy.

Luckily, here in Saskatchewan we have a strong post-secondary sector that is working hard to ensure they are tailoring programs to meet the needs of employers.

Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan identifies micro-credentialing programming as an opportunity to advance post-secondary education and labour market priorities with micro-credentials.

Micro-credentials enable learners to gain new skills quickly to meet the workforce needs of employers and industry partners.

We’ve extended our commitment to keep small business income tax rates low for another year.

These investments will help to achieve several of Saskatchewan's Growth Plan goals, including to:

• Grow private capital investment in Saskatchewan to $16 billion annually;

• Increase the value of exports by 50 per cent;

• Grow Saskatchewan's agri-food exports to $20 billion;

• Increase agriculture value-added revenue to $10 billion; and

• Crush 75 per cent of the canola Saskatchewan produces in Saskatchewan.

The success of our province is a credit to you – the business entrepreneurs here tonight, who have fought the hardest to weather the storm and get our Province back on track.

Thank you for everything you do and congratulations once again to all of this year’s finalists and winners.

Minister Gordon Wyant, Government of Saskatchewan

Flaming Candle Supply Co.

An online business selling local beeswax and organic handmade candle wicks.

Lou Itcush

315 Stillwater Dr, Saskatoon p: (306) 518-3183 X101 w: www.flamingcandlesupplyco.com Retail - Gift & Novelty

24 Hour Signs

If you want it done right, and you need it done fast, think 24 Hour Signs. Everything you need in one place. Specializing in marketing, design, signs, apparel, promotional products, and printing.

Jeff Parker

9-2220 Northridge Dr, Saskatoon p: (639) 525-0442 w: www.24HourSigns.ca

Signs

Advanth LLP - Chartered Professional Accountants

Providing bookkeeping, accounting, business consulting and tax planning services targeted towards small and medium businesses in Saskatchewan.

Jesse Speers / Linda Yu 1102 8th St E, Saskatoon p: (306) 952-0922 w: www.advanth.com

Accountants / Bookkeepers AND Consultants - Business

Allied Denture Clinic

A full-service denture clinic with three locations in Saskatoon. Offering implant supported dentures, full and partial dentures, same day relines and repairs. Locally owned Jim Mathews 1265 8th St E, Saskatoon p: (306) 933-3041 w: www.allieddenture.com Health Care - Services / Supplies

Andrew Sheret Ltd.

A plumbing, heating, fixtures, waterworks warehouse with a showroom attached as well.

Twyla Fehr 910 66th St E, Saskatoon p: (306) 653-3040 w: www.sheret.com

Plumbing / Heating / Air Conditioning

Aspira Hunter Village

A major retirement and long term Canadian publicly held company. New acquisitions in Saskatchewan including 5 homes and gives presence in 3 provinces currently.

Mark Savard 250 Hunter Rd, Saskatoon p: (306) 664-0501 Retirement Facilities AND Health CareServices / Supplies

Back2Nature Wellness and Adventures

Offering guided outdoor wellness experiences to cultivate self-awareness and deepen the connection that you have with yourself.

Kyla Bouvier 46 Campbell Pl, Clavet p: (306) 291-8181 w: www.back2naturewellness.com Tourism Industry

Business Integrity Group

Provides business tools - coaching, connection and community each company needs to reach its BIG dreams.

Sean Boyle / Gene Eberly 3812 Burron Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 651-2442 w: BigCorpSK.com Business Services

Chess Club Agency

Strangely strategic and strategically strange, dripping with fresh ideas, and hungry for more? A full-service agency specializing in brand strategy and management, project management.

Larry Anderson

433 20th St W, Saskatoon p: (306) 260-5530 w: chessclub.com

Advertising / Public Relations

Com Trade Ltd.

Imports and exports.

Jessie Cao 116-2723 Faithfull Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 914-0082

Agricultural AND Import / Export

New Members

Downtown Dental

Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are the foundation for a lifetime of good dental health. We believe the best treatment for good oral health for your whole family is preventative care. This includes regular visits that allow our dentists to assess the health of your teeth and gums, provide regular cleanings and fluoride treatments. We will also help you customize a schedule unique to your needs allowing for optimal oral health.

Donna Gossen

401-201 1st Ave S, Saskatoon p: (306) 664-3555 w: dtdyxe.ca Dental Care - Services / Supplies

Echo Properties Inc.

Commercial property landlord. Sandra Staber 410B 48th St E, Saskatoon p: (306) 934-4433

Property Management

Groenwold & Company

Chartered Professional Accountant Jessica Groenwold 215-728 Spadina Cres E, Saskatoon p: (306) 665-8890 ext 4 w: www.groenwold.ca

Accountants / Bookkeepers

Harvard Media

A progressive full-service broadcast and digital marketing company positioned for all the opportunities in the media market today and in the future.

Marie Clavelle 200-105 21st St E, Saskatoon p: (306) 653-9630 w: harvardmedia.com Advertising / Public Relations

Hawk Logistics Ltd.

Trucking is the main core of our business, our experienced team of drivers are dedicated to transporting goods efficiently and safely.

Kerri Lynn 3045 Miners Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 934-3220 w: www.hawklogistics.ca

Transportation Industry

Hunter's Eastview Bowl

Group parties, companies, clubs, families ... fun for all ages.

Allison Hunter 2929 Louise St, Saskatoon p: (306) 373-4333 w: www.huntersbowling.com Entertainment / Attractions AND Leisure / Recreation

Hunter's Fairhaven Bowl Group parties, companies, clubs, families ... fun for all ages.

Allison Hunter 3401 22nd St W, Saskatoon p: (306) 382-2822 w: www.huntersbowling.com Entertainment / Attractions

J-Man Carpentry Ltd.

Using wood to bring natural beauty and function into your home. Finishing carpentry and woodworking services include interior renovations, exterior renovations, and custom furniture. Based in YXE.

Eryn Tomlinson p: (306) 960-8780 w: www.jmancarpentry.com Carpentry / Woodworking / Millwork

Leaders International Executive

Search

Recruiting leadership talent is one of the greatest challenges an organization can face. Leaders International brings the expertise, professional network, and tenacity to deliver.

Ryan Vanjoff

333 3rd Ave N, 5th Flr, Saskatoon p: (306) 229-9688 w: leadersinternational.com

Consultants - Leadership

Local Flooring Group

We founded Local Flooring Group with a goal: Quality flooring that is innovative, exclusive, locally designed, accessible to every budget, and hassle free service.

Nicole Guerequeta

101 A English Cres, Saskatoon p: (306) 220-1720 w: localflooringgroup.com Construction

Mike Hamm Communications

A boutique-style ad agency providing strategy, products, and services to small and medium-sized businesses.

Mike Hamm

501-606 Victoria Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 203-3456 w: www.MikeHammCommunications.com Advertising / Public Relations

Prairie Cheques Bookkeeping Services

Providing full-cycle bookkeeping and notary services for all types of companies as well as tax returns each year.

Jenna Rolston 212 Willard Dr, Vanscoy p: (306) 380-5821 w: www.prairiecheques.com Accountants / Bookkeepers

Ratzlaff & Associates CPAs

Chartered professional accountants providing professional tax, accounting, and business advisory services Cynthia Mark-Ratzlaff 215-728 Spadina Cres E, Saskatoon p: (306) 665-8890 w: www.ratzlaffcpa.ca Accountants / Bookkeepers

RAW yxe Cosmetic Enhancement Clinic

A cosmetic enhancement clinic providing permanent and semi-permanent makeup, lash services, skincare, skin revision, tiny tattoos, fine-line tattoos and permanent makeup removal.

Michelle Wildeman 19-118 Cope Cres, Saskatoon p: (306) 220-9677 w: www.rawyxe.com Cosmetic / Esthetic - Services / Supplies

SPARTAN Advisory Services Inc.

A group of business transition specialists who work together to assist entrepreneurs in succession planning, business transition, management buyouts, and acquisitions.

Barrie Bergsma 102-103 Marquis Crt, Saskatoon p: (306) 229-2119 w: www.spartanbts.ca Consultants

New Members

TK Leadership Outside of the Box Leadership and team coaching from an ICF credentialed coach supporting your goals in being the leader you are meant to be.

Tracey Kowalchuk 111 Schumacher Bay, Main Flr, Saskatoon p: (306) 260-1314 w: traceykowalchuk.com Consultants – Leadership AND Education / Training

Travis Horne p: (306) 717-4870 Individual Members

Wanuskewin Gift Shop

A gift shop that carries indigenous product made by local artists. We have 3 locations and currently working on opening our 4th location and ship all over the world.

Shari Bedient 810 Broadway Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 931-9933 w: www.Wanuskewin gift shop.com Retail

Wiegrow Capital & Consulting

Angel investors in start-up ventures providing advisory services as deemed a fit.

Doyle Wiebe / Jesse Wiebe 38317 Rg Rd 3080, Langham p: (639) 471-0958 w: www.wiegrow.ca Investments / Venture Capital

Member Renewals

101065586 Saskatchewan Ltd.

101078600 Sask Ltd.

101302247 Sask Ltd.

14North Construction Ltd.

A-1 Trailer & Truck Repair Ltd.

ABE Quality Consulting Ltd.

Action Office

Active AgriScience Inc. Advanced Lawn Care AED Advantage Sales Ltd.

Anchor Managed Solutions Ltd. Anthonys Fashion Aspen Films

Assante Capital Management Ltd. Assante Wealth Management - Briske Financial Group

Australian Sheepskin Apparel Avenue Restaurant Inc.

Axom Leadership Inc.

BH Tech

Big Bang Hair Salon

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Saskatoon & Area

Biggsy Enterprises Inc.

Blair Morin

Blue Moose Media

Bridge Carriers Inc.

Canadian Elite Basketball League / Saskatchewan Rattlers

Canadian Linen and Uniform Service

Canwest Commercial & Land Corporation

Caron Transportation System CBRE Limited

CFCR Radio

Choice Realty Systems City of Saskatoon - City Manager's Office

Clarity Coaching & Development

Crossroads Therapeutic Solutions

Culligan

Dakota Dunes Casino

Dairy Queen

Definitely You Spa Inc.

DirectWest Downtown Saskatoon Dr. Annika Card

Early's Farm & Garden Centre

Easy Investments Inc.

EcoStrategies Consulting

Electronic Products Recycling Association Saskatchewan Elim Church

Ellen's Whole Body Health Ltd.

Express Employment Professionals

Fab Tech Welding Inc.

Family Legacy Advisory Group

Federated Co-operatives Limited

Firesign Holdings Corp.

Forvest Investments Inc.

Fresh Dish Catering

Furbaby Pet Care Inc.

Furniture World, Bridge City Ltd.

Gall Law Office

Gensource Potash Corporation GMG Jewellers

Greenfields Agriculture Corporation Greenline Electric Inc.

Herb C. Pinder, Jr. Hnatyshyn Gough Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites HomeQuarter Coffeehouse & Bakery Hounjet Tastad Harpham

Impact Diesel Performance Inc. Impact Marketing Services Limited Indigenous Chamber of Commerce Saskatchewan Inc. Inland Concrete and Aggregates

Innovation, Science & Economic Development Canada

Innovative Stonecraft Inc.

International Women of Saskatoon IWS Inc.

It's a Dog's Life Pet Grooming Inc. J & S Picture Frame Warehouse

J.O.B. Heating & Air Conditioning (2011) Inc.

Jennifer Kotko

Jet Electric 2014 Ltd.

JKM Strategies Inc.

Kashton Technologies Ltd.

Kaylee Smisko Makeup Artistry

Kinsmen Foundation

Koenig & Associates Inc.

Lake Life Beverage Co.

Living Skies Cannabis

Luna Metal Works Ltd.

macbeeners business goods

Marei Therapeutics Inc.

Maximum Gymnastics

Mike's Hydraulics Sales & Service Ltd.

Milestones Occupational Therapy for Children

My Canada Payday

Neesh Dental

NICS Ltd.

Nomad Mechanical Inc.

North Atlantic Potash Inc.

North Prairie Developments

Northend Transport Inc.

Nu-Fab Building Products - Kitchen Craft Cabinetry

Nu-West Electrical Services Ltd. Park Derochie Coatings (Saskatchewan) Inc.

Parr Auto Body

Pattison Outdoor Prairie Region

Member Renewals

Paul Davis of Saskatoon

Paull Chiropractic and Massage Therapy

PCL Construction Management Inc.

Pelican Media

Performance Plus Distributors Inc.

PINTER & Associates Ltd.

Pitchfork Market + Kitchen Points Athabasca Contracting LP

Prairie Laser Ink and Toner Supply Inc.

Prairie River Cruises Ltd.

Professional Computer Services

Queen Street Pharmacy

Quint Development Corporation

Quorex Construction Services Ltd.

Radouga Distilleries Inc.

Realty Executives Saskatoon

Reel Communication Inc.

Regency Gaming Ind.

Rise Air

Ritchie Bros Auctioneers Canada Ltd.

Royal University Hospital Foundation Inc.

Ryde YXE Cycle Studio

Sabtronics Telecommunications Corporation

Samaritan Place Corp.

Sandler Training Saskatchewan Saskatchewan Association of Immigrant Settlement and Integration Agencies

Saskatchewan Canola Development Commission

Saskatchewan Jazz Festival Inc.

Saskatchewan Landlord Association

Saskatchewan Pension Plan

Saskatchewan Research Council

Saskatchewan Trade & Export Partnership

Saskatoon & Region Home Builders' Association, Inc.

Saskatoon Animal Control Agency

Saskatoon Fire Protection (1983) Ltd.

Saskatoon Friendship Inn

Saskatoon Media Group

Saskatoon Pediatric Dentistry

Saskatoon Soccer Centre Inc.

Saskatoon Transportation Link

SaskMade Marketplace

Scirulìn Site Services Ltd.

Scotia Wealth Management

See More Green Landscaping

Seventy Seven Signs Ltd.

Shercom Industries Inc.

Sherwood Chevrolet Inc

Sixteen Safety Services Inc.

SLR Consulting (Canada) Ltd.

Smith Industries Ltd.

Stephen H. Walker

Stewart Property Holdings Stonebridge Crossing Retirement Community

Stor-All Mini Storage LLP Slobodian Pharmacy Synergy Sales Inc. TAM International Inc.

Ten-X Management & Engineering Consulting

Terra Modelling Services

The AIM Program

The Granary

The Prairie Grazer Food Company Ltd.

The Print Baron

The Willows Golf & Country Club

Thrive Hearing Solutions

TownePlace Suites Saskatoon by Marriott

TPK Management Consulting Inc.

Tri-Star Transport

Tuff Turf Growers Ltd.

Two Twenty Riversdale Holdings Ltd.

UEX Corporation

Universal Realty Ltd.

Van Norman Developments Inc.

Varial Technologies, Inc.

VCA Frontier Animal Hospital

Vendera National Inc.

Vinnang Freight Carriers

Wallace Klypak Architects Ltd.

Warman Diagnostics Ltd. - The Ultrasound Centre

Waymarc Industries Ltd.

Webb's Office Equipment Inc.

Wells Construction Inc.

Western Fitness Equipment Ltd.

Western Information Management Inc.

White's Pharmacy

Wiegers Financial & Benefits Yield10 Oilseeds Inc.

Magnus Construction

Business of the Year Award

the Magnus Way

The SABEX Awards are Saskatoon’s business community premier recognition program. They honour the city’s businesses and nonprofit organizations that exemplify excellence in operations through such things as safety culture, responsible growth, and community involvement. The Business of the Year Award recipient embodies entrepreneurial spirt, optimism, resilience, high performance and a commitment to making a positive impact in the community. Discover how this year’s Business of the Year demonstrates these attributes.

presents the Business of the Year Award to Magnus Construction Services

Demonstrating excellence in all facets of planning, execution and operations is a rare and remarkable achievement. It is a feat that Magnus Construction Services achieved this year. The embody success in safety, community investment, Indigenous relations, service quality, growth, entrepreneurial spirit and overall business accomplishments. Magnus Construction Services is the 2022 recipient of the Business of the Year Award. Let’s celebrate the Magnus Way.

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Magnus offers services that aren’t necessarily top of mind or “sexy” when people think about the construction industry, yet they are essential. The company provides thermal, moisture and fire protection, as well as upgrades and customized solutions for energy efficient envelopes for homes, commercial and agricultural buildings. Its accomplishment as the Business of the Year Award has been 14 years in the making.

In 2019, after spending two years completely restructuring the company, they saw an 85% growth over the previous year, it was a new start. Of course, in 2020 along came the pandemic, and we all know the devastating impact it had on many in the construction industry – but not on Magnus. It was the opportunity to stabilize and continue to consolidate their new vision and services. In the past three years Magnus’ revenue has grown by 71%. How did they do it amidst a pandemic? The answer is simple, caring for people. Magnus’ core values are “caring for each other, caring for builders and homeowners, caring for community, caring for suppliers and caring for investors. For joint owners Conrad Correa and Eduardo Chavez, these values translate in three pillars.

Engaged Employees

As part of its restructuring Magnus decided to put the emphasis on recruitment and training, this decision would prove pivotal during and after the pandemic. They had decided to focus their recruitment efforts on young people excited to enter the workforce and people looking to learn a trade with growing opportunities. They opened possibilities specifically to students, Indigenous people, newcomers, and people that others might automatically turn down such as people with past drug and alcohol abuse issues. They saw the potential in people who wanted to work hard. That’s why they created Magnus Academy to “Mpower” (Magnus empowerment) their workforce. The Magnus Academy aims to train and retain a new generation of trades professionals. Not only the academy provides the technical and industry skills one might expect, such as safety training or building science, it also brings to their recruits many “life hacks,” such as body awareness, flexibility and mindfulness. “It’s all meant

Image: Sik Pics

KPMG

to help our people be healthy individuals, better family members and stronger workers,” says Owner, Conrad Correa.

“By encouraging healthy bodies and minds, a positive mindset, and the knowledge of proper work techniques and methods, the Magnus Academy has proven to be effective in terms of maintaining safe work and home environments and delivering quality service,” adds Conrad.

Dedicated Partners

Being able to deliver services such as insulation removal, mold remediation, asbestos abatement, fiberglass and vapour barrier installation to the application of the latest spray technology for thermal, moisture and fire protection systems, requires strong partnerships with others in the construction industry, including builders, renovators, general contractors, subcontractors and suppliers. Conrad explains, “We make a point of developing great relationships with others in the industry. After years of bidding on thousands of jobs with fair and constant rates, keeping our accounts in good standing, and providing good communications and sharing knowledge, people know us, the quality of our work, and our dedication. Our relationships are stronger as we continue to find ways to work together and grow.”

Knowledgeable Customers

The importance of knowledge is a recurrent theme at Magnus. They make a point of sharing their knowledge. In fact, that’s even a skill they include in their Magnus Academy. Giving their employees the information and tools they need to be able to answer questions from customers, whether they are in the industry or individual homeowners, is all in a day’s work. In the last year alone, Magnus’

sales team averaged two and a half hours per week educating homeowners on common issues such as moisture and mold, asbestos, cold areas, attic problems and more. “We know that 90% of these homeowners that call us and to whom we spend time explaining things will never request our services, and that’s OK. In most cases they receive enough information to fix the problem themselves or sometimes they shop around for a lower cost contractor using the knowledge we shared. We’re just happy to provide peace of mind and to contribute to the community that way,” says Conrad. “Teaching others, including builders, contractors and homeowners, how to cost-effectively deal with common issues, while raising the bar for other trades to do their work responsibly is all worth it.”

The Magnus Way

At Magnus, the goal is truly to get people to understand the importance of the building components that they handle. The fact is that although most of their services are hidden by the overall building envelope, they are essential to keep people, their belongings and their environment safe. For that they make a point of always meeting and often exceeding construction codes. That commitment to excellence, to develop a workforce focused on quality and friendly customer service, is the same that also drives Magnus and its employees to be involved in the community. It may mean that they are developing and delivering training sessions with Saskatoon Trades and Skills Centre, and through the Saskatoon Downtown Progress Club sponsoring non-profit organizations such as the Friendship Inn, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Care and Share, Saskatoon Public Schools Foundation, Haven House for Kids, Help One and many more. Whether it is through their services delivery, knowledge sharing with their pairs and the public, or direct community involvement, caring is the Magnus Way.

“

Teaching others, including builders, contractors and homeowners, how to costeffectively deal with common issues, while raising the bar for other trades to do their work responsibly is all worth it.

Conrad Correa, MAgnus Construction

SABEX Recipients

Demonstrate Excellence

By Véronique Loewen

What do a retired couple, a Fitness services provider, an apparel boutique, a geophysics company, an art museum, a resort community development, an individual and group development coach, a directional driller, a consignment store, and a hospital foundation have in common? Excellence. The 2022 SABEX Awards recipients demonstrate excellence in safety, community impact, spirit and investment, entrepreneurship, business growth, and in their reconciliation journey. And the retirees, well, they exemplify a business life well-lived, overall entrepreneurial distinction, and ongoing contributions to our community. We congratulate all the individuals and businesses profiled here for being recognized and celebrated by Saskatoon’s business community for their achievements.

HALL OF FAME

Sherwood and Elaine Sharfe Famous for Caring

and Kevin mocked themselves to invite customers to visit their dealership. Before the Hall of Fame, Sherry and Kevin joke that their claim to fame was the selection of their commercials as “The Best of the Worst” homegrown commercials across the country on CBC’s National. The anchor even came to their home to interview them for the occasion! A lot has happened since then.

As Elaine and Sherry’s business grew, there were always three constants – taking care of the customer, taking care of employees and our family, and taking care of the community. “The customer is number one, that was our motto and we really took that to heart,” says Sherry. “Right below the customer was the employee. We made sure we did everything for our employees because our employees are like our family. We want a relationship with them for years, 10 years, 20 years, 30 years.”

To be inducted in the Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce Hall of Fame, one must love the city, have a passion for business and a commitment to help others succeed. This honour is only bestowed exceptionally – not annually - to individuals or businesses that have made a lasting and important contribution to the city’s business sector and overall community.

Sherwood and Elaine Sharfe’s names kept coming up as potential recipients, and anyone who has had the opportunity to work with them or meet them would agree. They are extremely deserving of being the 2022 Business Hall of Fame inductees. Sherwood “Sherry” and Elaine, who have been together for 60 years, came to Saskatoon over 53 years ago as a young couple and never left. Before coming to Saskatoon, Sherry had worked for Elaine’s father at his car dealership in Winnipeg. After a few years General Motors floated the idea of Sherry having a dealership of his own, in Saskatoon. And the rest is history. Sherry and Elaine opened Sherwood Chevrolet, which would be the first of several dealerships.

If you grew up in Saskatoon, you’ll remember Sherwood Chevs’ TV commercials, they were low-budget and featured Sherry and his young son Kevin, the youngest of their four children. Sherry

The Sharfe’s explain that for them, retention of employees reflects the company’s values and that, “Employees are the essence of the company. Taking care of employees shows the morality of the company.” Ron Gitlin is one of the best illustration of the company’s commitment to retaining their employees, he recently retired from the company after working with Sherry for over 50 years.

It is quickly apparent when talking with the Sharfe that beyond the dealerships, being of service to the community matters a great deal. Elaine was definitely in the driver seat with that aspect. She volunteered countless hours with many non-profit and charitable organizations. And the family donated as much as they could. Their donations started out small, but as the business grew so did their philanthropy.

Today, they have made significant contributions to organizations such us the Red Cross, the Persephone, the Remai Modern, and countless others from neighbourhood hockey teams to national non-profits. And one of their legacy will always be as the first major benefactor behind the Concentus Citizenship Education Foundation. Their 1-million dollars gift stemmed from the discrimination they each endured growing up Jewish in small town Saskatchewan and their desire to help make the city, the province and the country more tolerant and understanding. Concentus’ mission to educate and empower individuals to understand their rights, encourage responsible, respectful and participatory citizenship and promote a commitment to justice in a pluralistic society, embodies the Share’s desire.

Sherwood has now retired from selling cars everyday, although he still pops in from time to time. He and Elaine focus on watching and helping their four children, 15 grandchildren and two greatgrandchildren succeed, and on continuing their philanthropic activities for the betterment of the community they adopted over five decades ago.

Image: Sik Pics

Image: Sik Pics

Sherwood and Elaine Sharfe

SAFETY CULTURE AWARD

Axis Vac & HDD

SAFETY Engrained in Axis Vac & HDD’s Culture

Axis Vac & HDD’s commitment to safety before production is exactly the kind of dedication to safety training, development and continuous improvement for which they earned this year’s Safety Culture Award. At Axis Vac & HDD, a directional drilling, hydrovac and utility company based in Saskatoon and serving oil and gas, municipal, utility, telecom and construction clients, you could say that safety is drilled into the company culture.

It's no surprise that “safety first” is not just a saying at Axis Vac & HDD. When the boss - owner Mitch Willie - comes from a firefighting-paramedic background, you know safety is a way to think, be and do. From its beginning in 2017, Axis Vac & HDD has implemented Energy Safety Canada’s Certificate of Recognition (COR) for controlling and identifying workplace hazards. To date, their COR scores have been in the 90th percentile year over year. The company is audited yearly and continually demonstrates that it walks the talk. In recognition of the fact that in its five years of existence, there has never been a lost time accident - and no injury frequency rate, no injury severity rate - Axis Vac & HDD has received a Safety Certificate of Achievement from the Saskatchewan Worker’s Compensation

Board. The company is also registered and scored by Avetta, Comply Works and ISNetworld in supply chain safety aspects, compliance management, and safety culture.

Axis Vac & HDD’s safety culture rests on their investment in training all their employees and supervisors using safety best practices. This is enhanced through the reinforcement of work safe protocols and procedures, the provision of adequate personal protective equipment and carefully maintained equipment, and the allocation of specific daily, weekly, and monthly periods to discuss risks, concerns and near misses reported as teachable moments. Their focus on prevention through consistent hazard identification and jobsite inspections, the coaching of employees and supervisors, and the completion and signing-off on the proper paperwork by staff and management also contributes to their safety successes. Axis’ safety culture doesn’t stop at the welfare of their employees. They insist on door knocking in the neighbourhoods where they are working to inform the community that they are in the area and let them know what to expect and how to ensure that everyone remains safe. At Axis Vac and HDD safety culture runs deep.

WorkSafe Saskatchewan presents the Safety Culture Award to Axis Vac & HDD

COMMUNITY INVESTMENT AWARD

Fitness 2J2

Invested in the Community from the Start

When as an organization your stated mission is to empower Indigenous youth and adults through fitness, and healthy lifestyle programming and that you make a point to partner with non-profit organizations, schools, and businesses to provide fitness programming and consulting services, it is not surprising that you get noticed and become the recipient of the SABEX Community Investment Award. Fitness 2J2 is that organization.

Established in 2011 by Joel Pedersen, Fitness 2J2 strives to help people in the community. Joel and his team make a point of being involved in sports and recreations activities that promote health, wellness, and positive lifestyles. For example, their involvement with Saskatchewan Triathlon and Saskatoon Triathlon Club is providing opportunities for remote rural communities’ children and many Saskatoon inner city youth such as in the Pleasant Hill neighbourhood, the ability to participate in and compete in sanctioned triathlon races. Fitness 2J2’s impact also reaches northern Saskatchewan through their partnership with Northern Sport Culture and Recreation and their delivery of learn to play basketball camps.

With a focus on promoting Indigenous people’s wellbeing and the development of leadership skills through physical and team activities, Joel encourages his employees to get involved in the community not only through Fitness 2J2 selected community involvement programs, but by also identifying other opportunities to become allies and empower others. It is that same quest for opportunities to connect with youth and provide them with role models and mentors that has led Fitness 2J2 to also be involved in the category of arts and culture of various Pow Wows such as with the Saskatoon Tribal Council and Prince Albert Grand Council.

In addition to Joel and his employees’ hundreds of volunteer hours, Fitness 2J2 is also making in-kind contributions by providing fitness equipment. Last year these contributions amounted to about $8,500. Yet, according to Joel and his team, one cannot measure their community investment’s impact by the number of hours dedicated or dollar amounts donated; “success is measured only through the smiles and excitement of the youth whose confidence we help build,” says Joel.

SaskTel presents the Community Investment Award to Fitness 2J2

GROWTH AWARD / SMALL BUSINESS

Sandy Shores Resort & Marina

Fast Growth at Sandy Shores Resort

Have you heard of Sandy Shores Resort yet? Well, you’re in for a treat. And if you’ve heard of it, I bet you’ll still learn a thing or two about this 2022 SABEX Small Business Growth Award recipient!

The idea of the development of a resort community on the shores of Lake Diefenbaker first emerged in the 1960s. Back then a few trees were planted and that was all. Twenty years later, in the 1980s, a tourism study identified that there wasn’t enough cabin development on the lake, still not much happened. Fast forward to 2014, the Saskatchewan Ministry of the Environment began a tender process to sell the land with the stipulation that it was to be developed into a full-service resort community. In 2015, Rauncie Murdoch secured the land parcel and launched her Sandy Shores Resort project.

Rauncie split the project in phases. First, in 2015-2016, she invested over $1 million in infrastructure, which set the foundation for attracting buyers for the first ten lots that included services such as quality roads, underground power and later potable water. By 2018 phase 2 was underway with the building of the water treatment plant and a total of 44 lots sold. In 2021, Rauncie launched phase 3 and today, the Sandy Shores Resort community represents a $4 million

investment with 60 homes and cabins, beautiful parks, shoreline trails, sport court and playground and a 200 slip full-service marina opened in 2022!

To accomplish this phenomenal growth, Rauncie focused on establishing effective relationships with not less than seven government agencies and several local organizations, including Ministry of Environment, Water Security Agency, Heartland Health Region, Department of Highways, Ministry of Parks and Recreation, Rural Municipality of Coteau, and Danielson Provincial Park. The goal was to secure the extensive list of permits required in a timely fashion. Her ability to find win-win solutions was also instrumental in her dealings with the many construction contractors, services providers and suppliers involved in the project. And she implemented a powerful marketing campaign to promote the resort, inform neighbouring communities and attract potential residents, in particular people living in Saskatoon who are only an hour away from the resort, and taunt the benefits of a beautiful, relaxed and fun lake life experience. Her tenacious work and skillfully executed strategy worked and earned Sandy Shores Resort a well deserved SABEX Small Business Growth Award.

SREDA presents the Growth-Small Business Award to Sandy Shores Resort & Marina

DIAS Ground & Airborne Geophysics Achieves

With over ninety employees and offices in two of Canada’s largest cities, Toronto and Vancouver, as well as locations in Chile and Mexico, Saskatoon headquartered DIAS Ground & Airborne Geophysics has become big business in its eight years of operation. This year, and rightfully so, their sustained growth earned them the SABEX Big Business Growth Award.

Indeed, for the past five years, DIAS has experienced double and triple digits growth in sales and revenue. This year alone, they are slated to achieve 114% growth. That’s no small feat for a business that started eight years ago with a single patented ground survey technology, the DIAS32. Today, they perform some of the world’s largest 3D resistivity surveys through both ground and airborne technologies. From gap analysis to data delivery, and design to manufacture, Dias controls its own destiny for its products. They’ve also developed proprietary software, CARAVEL, which allows their clients to access dedicated purpose-built hardware using a simple easy to access interface. Their growth in sales rests squarely on their ability to focus on research and development and continuously improve their products and services.

Big Business Growth

The boom in mineral exploration and mining to source what the world needs such as battery minerals, bodes well for DIAS. The adage “if it’s not grown, it’s mined,” has never been truer than today. DIAS offers the robust data for 3D models that mining companies need to discover what’s below the subsurface. DIAS’ is poised for continued growth.

DIAS’ current growth is best illustrated by the list of countries in which they have performed commercial surveys. They include Argentina, Australia, Canada, Chile, China, Czech Republic, Dominican Republic, India, Kazakhstan, Mexico, Peru, Mali, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and the United States. To ensure continued work with some of the largest mineral exploration and mining companies in the world and to deliver their revolutionary survey models , they acquired a new and larger facility in Saskatoon, with room to grow.

DIAS’ success is Saskatoon’s success. Aside from their contribution to the local economy through high-paying jobs and contracts for goods and services, the success of DIAS’ technologies worldwide helps shine a spotlight on Saskatoon, potentially enticing other companies and individuals to establish themselves here. That’s big business growth we can all be excited about.

Image: Sik Pics

SREDA presents the Growth-Big Business Award to DIAS Ground & Airborne Geophysics

St. Paul's Hospital Foundation Builds Lasting Community Impact

St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation believes in the power of generosity to save and change lives. It’s this belief that leads the SPH Foundation to continue to raise, manage and allocate funds in keeping with donors’ wishes to the benefit of St. Paul’s Hospital and the Hospice at Glengarda, and it contributed to its recognition as the 2022 SABEX Community Impact Award recipient.

Since 1982, SPH Foundation has been supporting the priority needs of the acute care teaching facility that is St. Paul’s Hospital. In January of 2020, St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation launched its $20 million Close to Home Campaign for Hospice and End-of-Life Care, and just one year later, in January of 2021, allowed the Hospice at Glengarda to open its doors to offer accessible, compassionate and holistic end-of-life care in a beautiful 15-bed sanctuary located in a quiet residential neighbourhood.

SPH Foundation recognizes that enhancing care in our community requires the work of many. It’s one of the reasons the Foundation allocated funds raised during the Close to Home Campaign to create a Palliative Care Education Fund and Committee. With members from across the province, the committee includes representatives from the Saskatchewan Health Authority, Prairie Hospice Society, Saskatchewan Hospice Palliative Care Association, St. Paul’s Hospital and its Foundation, as well as patient and family advocates. The committee is investing in the delivery of Learning Essential Approaches to Palliative (LEAP) Care courses province-wide, and sponsoring the Saskatchewan Hospice Palliative Care Conference,

which welcomed over 250 participants and speakers from around the world this year. Further, the Committee is supporting the development of a webinar to answer commonly asked questions and address challenges patients and families facing a palliative diagnosis may have. It's these types of initiatives in addition to its fundraising activities and strategic funds allocations that SPH Foundation builds a lasting community impact.

With 13 staff members lead by CEO, Lecina Hicke, and a 12-member volunteer Board of Directors, over the years the Foundation has raised over 80 million dollars. Their efforts support the ongoing needs and programs unique to St. Paul’s Hospital and the Hospice at Glengarda. The support of the Foundation also helps to realize the implementation of sophisticated new technologies, enhancement of patient comfort and advancement of education and training opportunities for health care professionals.

Recently, with generous community support, SPH Foundation partnered with the Ministry of Health to purchase the Da Vinci Surgical Robot, Saskatchewan’s first. The surgical community has embraced robot-assisted surgery as a gold standard of care. With this innovative technology, they can offer patients safer and more precise surgeries with less pain, fewer complications and faster recoveries. Having this technology also advances efforts to recruit top medical talent to Saskatoon, and will play a key part in reducing the overall wait times for surgeries. This is community impact of which we can all be proud.

Cameco presents the Community Impact Award to St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation

Image: Sik Pics

NEW BUSINESS VENTURE AWARD

Juniper & Oak Consignments Displays

New Business Venture Trophy

To receive the new business venture trophy, one must have demonstrated steady growth, profitability and successfully positioned itself as an emerging industry leader and contributor to saskatoon’s economic development within one to three years. This is exactly what Juniper & Oak Consignment has done since opening its doors in the summer of 2020. Yes, you read this right! Part owner and operator, Diana Pereira and her three daughters launched their business in the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic. And as fate would have it, that would not be the only wrench thrown in their business plan. Earlier this year, Diana was diagnosed with MS, which left her incapacitated for months, but fortunately her daughters have been able to continue to run and grow the business to achieve its current success and win the SABEX New Business Venture Award.

Located in and partially owned by Handy Special Evens, Juniper & Oak Consignments offers unique décor, furniture and women fashion beautifully curated to destigmatize the

second-hand shopping experience. They can attribute their new business achievements to their attention to offering friendly and knowledgeable customer service. And of course, their focus on creating a welcoming, spacious, beautifully displayed and well-appointed environment to shop in person or online – they were the first consignment shop in Saskatoon to offer an e-commerce platform – allows consignors to find a second home for their unwanted items, and eco-conscious customers to source one-of-a-kind hidden gems at discounted prices. In its first two years, Juniper & Oak has already helped over 1,000 local people and kept nearly 20,000 items out of the landfill. Their success is also illustrated by their ability to not only reach their annual sales goal but to more than double it in one year. In year two they build on year one’s sales by over 235% and they are now targeting a 160% increase in year three over year two. That’s something to celebrate for a business that initially thought that their market was mostly in Saskatoon and now ships second-hand items across North America!

FCC presents the New Business Venture Award to Juniper & Oak Consignment

Awasis Boutique

Mistahi Mamîcîhîtowin Spirit Shines

An educator by trade, Christine Marie’s vision for her Awasis Boutique has always been to foster the spirit of Reconciliation by providing opportunities for Indigenous knowledge sharing. At Awasis Boutique, aside from designing and selling original Indigenous culture inspired apparels for children and their adults, there is a clear desire to bring people of all backgrounds together and demonstrate Indigenous pride.

Mistahi Mamîcîhîtowin or “Great Pride in You,” is not just the namesake gifted to the special Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce SABEX Award during a special Pipe Ceremony, it is the demonstration of how an organization creates positive relationships with Indigenous enterprises and integrates Indigenous ways of knowing and collaborating. Christine’s Awasis Boutique does exactly that by partnering with Indigenous designers and organizations, such as Wanuskewin Heritage Park or the First Nations Bank of Canada. For Christine incorporating other Indigenous artists’ artwork in her products and offering her creations through Indigenous organizations is one of her ways of strengthening relationships. “We rise by lifting others,” is a saying that Christine says she tries to emulate. And although Awasis Boutique sells its creations primarily online, Christine also partners with non-Indigenous organizations such as Twisted

Through

Goods and the USASK shop to make her products available in store fronts in Saskatoon and beyond.

Awasis Boutique’s Orange Shirt Day original designs were all the rage once again this year, selling across Canada. “When people of all ages wear my products, they are helping to create awareness, educate others about who Indigenous people are and their history. When the Orange Shirt Day orders come in from coast to coast in our country, not only it means that this special day is growing, but it also means that Awasis Boutique can make more donations,” says Christine.

Indeed, Awasis Boutique has made it its mission to give back as much as possible to non-profits supporting survivors of residential school and their families such as The Legacy of Hope Foundation, as well as organizations supporting children’s education and well-being, like the Saskatoon Public School Foundation’s Early Learning Equal Start campaign. To date, after only four short years in business, Awasis Boutique has already donated over $60,000 to various non-profit and charitable organizations across Canada. Truly, Christine Marie and her Awasis Boutique are deserving of the Mistahi Mamîcîhîtowin Award and of our heartfelt thank you and congratulations for demonstrating reconciliation in action.

Nutrien presents the Mistahi Mamicihitowin Award to Awasis Boutique

Clarity Coaching & Development

Entrepreneurship in action

Jolene Watson of Clarity Coaching & Development increased her sales by 126% during the pandemic and subsequently doubled her revenue in the past year. In March of 2020, after the speaking side of her business disappeared overnight due to the suspension of conferences worldwide, she developed a full day Myers-Briggs® course focused on communication styles, stress management, and leadership strategies. She then became a Certified Virtual Presenter, Emotions-Centered Coach, and received her certification in Mental Health First Aid. She is passionate about professional development and is always acquiring additional knowledge to better serve her clients. Point in case, she is also currently taking a 30-hour body language course. It is Jolene’s drive to help others, her enterprising spirit, risk taking, grit, and vision that lead to her being the recipient of this year’s Entrepreneurship Award.

Growing up on a mixed farm outside of Biggar, Saskatchewan, Jolene’s early career as a Registered Veterinary Technologist did not necessarily predict her current entrepreneurial journey. Yet, today she has come full circle as she teaches a 16-hour client relations and stress management course to first year veterinary technology students at Saskatchewan Polytechnic. In addition, she also teaches at the Praxis School of Entrepreneurship,

Leadership Saskatoon, and at the University of Saskatchewan’s Edwards Executive Education program. She is driven to help her clients acquire the confidence needed to increase their charisma, communication skills, presentation skills, and stress management coping strategies. It’s this passion that has led her to develop a full suite of in-person workshops, virtual presentations, and personality profiling services that she delivers to a wide range of organizations from provincial and federal departments and agencies, to mining sector corporations, engineering firms, and non-profit organizations.

Jolene’s goal to become Canada’s Networking Expert recognized nationally and internationally, her drive as an entrepreneur to market Clarity Coaching & Development beyond Saskatchewan, and her ability to connect with people allow her to continue to develop and grow her business. Her enterprising spirit is also helping her contribute to Saskatoon, the province, and the nation’s economy, beyond her business, by providing people of Saskatchewan and afar with the customized tools to needed to grow themselves and their organizations. A proud Saskatchewanbased entrepreneur, next year she will celebrate her 10-year anniversary in business!

Image: Sik Pics

U of S presents the Entrepreneurship Award to Jolene Watson - Clarity Coaching & Development

OF SASKATOON AWARD

Remai Modern

Exhibits Spirit of Saskatoon

Remai Modern aims to be a welcoming and inclusive public gathering place where people engage together through local and international modern and contemporary art. This architectural landmark on Saskatoon’s riverbank is an invitation to residents and visitors of all ages to experience culture, community and conversation in a beautiful space. Thanks to this vision, its staff and the programs implemented to bring it to life, Remai Modern has won the Spirit of Saskatoon SABEX Award.

The museum exhibits its spirit of Saskatoon in many ways, such as by showcasing the incredible work being done by local and regional artists alongside exhibitions featuring notable national and international artists. This institution takes seriously its responsibility to work toward greater understanding and improved relationships with Treaty 6 Territory First Nations and Métis people. Therefore, Remai Modern is taking steps to infuse Indigenous perspectives and be responsive to requests and ideas for change. It is also establishing relationships with Indigenous groups such as the Saskatoon Survivors Circle, providing reconciliation training to its staff and regularly displaying the work of Indigenous artists.

To continue to improve the visitor experience and access to its programs for people of all ages and walks of life, the museum introduced by-donation admission every Wednesday and removed

the admission fee for youth under 18 years of age in February. It has since moved to by-donation admission on all open days for the next 20 years thanks to a generous commitment from the Frank and Ellen Remai Foundation. Whether it is offering school tours, dedicated visits for people in long-term care, minimal simulation “relaxed tours,” American Sign Language interpretation, by-appointment visits or off-site outreach programs, Remai Modern aims to be inclusive. This goal prompted the museum to invite and actively respond to community feedback. In fact, Remai Modern’s new strategic plan released in 2021 was informed by input received from hundreds of community people, including the business community, Indigenous groups and Elders, educators, artists, art organizations, donors and many others. They all helped create the museum’s roadmap to best serve the community and visitors now and in the future.

Beyond the art displayed, the programs offered including talks, films and other events. Saskatoon residents and tourists alike all agree that their experiences are enhanced by Remai Modern’s people - front desk, learning and engagement staff and program guides. Thanks to these individuals’ enthusiasm to discuss the exhibitions, answer questions and share their genuine love of art, while making meaningful connections, Remai Modern’s Spirit of Saskatoon truly shines.

Image: Sik Pics

Discover Saskatoon presents the Spirit of Saskatoon Award to Remai Modern

SAFETY CULTURE

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

ENTREPRENEURSHIP SPIRIT OF SASKATOON

Sponsored by

Sponsored by

Sponsored by Sherwood & Elaine Sharfe

The Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce is once again launching a city-wide campaign and online market hub to make it easier to support Saskatoon’s locally owned and operated businesses.

The “Totally Locally Market Hub” is a one-stop shop for anyone looking to support local businesses across a range of categories. The site (totallylocally.ca) makes it easy to search and connect with area businesses by providing a consolidated listing of their e-commerce and web links, physical locations, and videos of the people behind the products and services.

“Just a 10% shift in spending with local businesses can make a huge difference,” said Jason Aebig, CEO of the

Saskatoon Chamber. “Every time you choose to shop, support and enjoy local, your dollars grow Saskatoon’s economy, create jobs and build a better quality of life for us all. As we head into the holiday retail season, we encourage everyone to rediscover Saskatoon’s locally owned and operated businesses.”

He continued: “Great food, unforgettable experiences, ready-now products, high-quality services – our city is home to great locally owned and operated businesses that are ready to serve you.”

The campaign will run until the end of December. The online market hub is updated and available year-round.

Celebrating Success

Sixty-eight finalists, ten award winners and one Hall of Fame inductee. Well two leaders joined the Hall of Fame this year, but we'll get to that later.

The room was electric at the Sabex Awards that took place about a month ago. It was an awesome night of catching up with friends and celebrating success of Saskatoon businesses! We were able to retire the covid grit award and introduce a new business growth award, signaling another move out of covid and back into growth and opportunity.

One of things I find amazing about the awards night is seeing businesses I hadn't heard of or met before getting to the finals with many of them winning. It tells me that there are great success stories happening all over the city at any point in time. Our Hall of Fame winners, the Sharfes, could have hosted the entire event and the audience would've been entertained all night. If I have half the bantering ability of Sherwood and Elaine in the future I'll consider myself blessed! On top of being great story tellers they're both incredibly humble and, from the testimonials, the kind of business leaders we need in Saskatoon. Big kudos to the chamber staff and all of the volunteers, community members, and of course finalists who made this night a huge success!

As we hit the winter months I feel like the momentum from fall has only snowballed (pun intended). I’m sure I’m not alone in making that transition from networking season to Christmas party season which, for most, still turns into a lot of networking. Two Christmas’ ago our office hosted a Zoom Christmas party, last year it was at a house, and this year we are back to going out like we were before. For what it’s worth, I actually enjoyed both of those parties. There was something quirky and unique about them and the idea that we likely wouldn’t have a Christmas party like that again made them special in their own way.

As we enter Christmas season it’s important to highlight the return of the Chamber’s Totally Locally campaign. I know I’m preaching to the choir when I say shopping local is important but could there be a better time to be thinking of it? Black Friday sales are starting over a week ahead of the day and then of course the sales extend through the weekend to Cyber Monday. I wouldn’t be surprised if in a few years the sales just last all month. When you can window shop thousands of items from the comfort of your couch, I guess it shouldn’t be a shock that the movement has only grown. That’s probably why we have less videos

surfacing of people behaving like wild animals on the hunt while they’re bowling each other over in Walmart to grab one of the last TVs on sale. Maybe this change is a good thing after all. If you definitely want to avoid those mobs of people then that’s where local shines again. The Chamber has made it even easier to find what you need with our newly launched online market hub! A quick search will show you tons of great places to go and, let’s be honest, local is always where you find the quirkiest gifts, most unique foods, and most memorable outings. Wishing everyone a good start to winter and hope to see you at some of the festivities this holiday season!

Saskatoon Chamber Board Chair Colton Wiegers

As we enter Christmas season it’s important to highlight the return of the Chamber’s Totally Locally campaign. I know I’m preaching to the choir when I say shopping local is important but could there be a better time to be thinking of it?.

Colton Wiegers , Chair Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce

Sincerely, Colton Wiegers, Chair

Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce

Shaina Lynden Director Ryde YXE Cycle Studio

Gabe Lafond Director Luthercare Communities

Stephanie Clovechok Director Discover Saskatoon

Louis Aussant Director aodbt architechture + interior design

Todd Denzin Director Nutrien

Claire Marentette Director PCL Construction Management Inc.

Wanda Waldner Director

Tammy Sweeney Director TCU Place

Joseph Gill Second Vice-Chair McKercher LLP

Tanis Taylor First Vice-Chair CCA Consulting

Colton Wiegers Chair Wiegers Financial & Benefits

Joel Pedersen Secretary Fitness 2J2

Graham Snell Past-Chair Merit Contractors Association