March / April 2020
EY Empowers Locally and Connects Globally
Saskatoon Funeral Home A Fourth Generation Family Business
| Members in the News pg. 10 | Non-Prof its pg. 22 |
Image: Saskatoon Chamber
“Saskatoon exemplifies the spirit of both entrepreneurship and community like no other.�
AWARDS GALA APRIL 24, 2020 FINALISTS ANNOUNCED MARCH 5, 2020 VIA FACEBOOK LIVE
For more information on this event or for ticket sales, please contact Treena Skaalid at 306-664-0712
PRESENTED BY:
March / April 2020
STAFF
Image: Saskatoon Chamber
Darla Lindbjerg, Chief Executive Officer Kendra Cruson, Vice President, Operations Terry Lawrence, Director of Special Projects Margot Orr, Director of Policy and Government Relations Roz Macala, Executive Assistant Henry Buitrago, Creative Coordinator Treena Skaalid, Event & Sponsorship Coordinator
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chair Chris Sicotte - AON 1st Vice-Chair Carla Browne - Real Canadian Property Management Professionals Inc. 2nd Vice-Chair Jason Aebig - Creative Fire Past Chair Peggie Koenig - Koenig & Associates Inc. Executive Sandra Ribeiro - Canadian Light Source Inc. CeCe Baptiste - Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technology (SIIT) Todd A. Denzin - Nutrien Linda Exner - PCL Construction Management Ltd. Katrina German - KatrinaGerman.com Dale Lemke - Quicklinkt Solutions Inc. Adam McInnes - Med Hack Enterprises Incorporated Graham Snell - Saskatoon Aerocentre Colton Wiegers - Wiegers Financial & Benefits Penny Yeager - MLT Aikins LLP
PRODUCTION
Publisher: Kendra Cruson Editor: Terry Lawrence Layout & Design: Henry Buitrago Contributing Writers: Kendra Cruson, Chris Sicotte, Darla Lindbjerg, Elizabeth Ireland Sales: Kendra Cruson Photography: Henry Buitrago Canadian Publications Mail Agreement No. 40052085
Cover Story Page 16
Featured Content 4
Events
6
New Members
Return Undeliverable Addresses to: Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce 110-345 4th Avenue South, Saskatoon, SK S7K 1N3
BUSINESS VOICE is a publication of the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce Copyright 2020 Phone: (306) 244-2151 Email: chamber@saskatoonchamber.com Website: www.saskatoonchamber.com Twitter and Instagram: @stoonchamber
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16
Upcoming Chamber events
December 2019 & January 2020
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Advocacy
22
Non-Profits
24
Saskatoon Funeral Home
Members in the News
A Fourth Generation Family Business
Members celebrating expansions, new ventures, anniversaries and more
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Chamber Happenings
EY Empowers Locally and Connects Globally
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Chair’s Message
“Saskatoon exemplifies the spirit of both entrepreneurship and community like no other.”
Chamber Events
The Chamber Board welcomes incoming Chair Carla Browne
Disclaimer: BUSINESS VOICE makes no warranties of any kind, written or implied, regarding the contents of this magazine and expressly disclaims any warranty regarding the accuracy or reliability of informations contain herein. The views contained in the magazine are those of the writers and advertisers: They do not necessarily reflect the view fo the Business Voice magazine and its publisher the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce.
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON
MARCH / APRIL 2020 3
EVENTS
CHAMBER EVENTS CHAMBER
PEER
POWER SERIES
Connect with the business community and enjoy great food and drinks at Chamber on Tap. Learn Entrepreneur Insights when our host Nadine Kanigan interviews members of the business community. SPEAKER: Evan Drisner NuFab Building Products DATE: Wednesday, March 4th
NEW SERIES! CHAMBER
PEER
The advantage of peer learning is documented to include development of leadership skills, increased confidence, the gain of personal insight in self-reflection & SERIES discovery and the opportunity to discuss & challenge class topics. If you are looking to gain new skills or if you have new skills to share, this CHAMBER series is for you!
POWER
PEER
SPEAKER: Asif Moola Momentum Clothing DATE: Wednesday, April 1st
POWER
If you are interested in being a presenter at the Chamber Peer Power Series, please contact Treena – events@saskatoonchamber.com. SERIES
TIME: Doors open 4:30 pm, Speaker 5:00 pm LOCATION: LB Distillers PLEASE REGISTER FOR THIS COMPLIMENTARY EVENT
&
The Money Panel Access to capital is an ever present concern for business owners at all levels. Join us for this expert panel for more information and tools to move your business into the future.
SPEAKERS: Warren Jackson, BDC Greg Yuel, PIC Investments DATE: Thursday, March 26th TIME: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm LOCATION: Saskatoon Inn
& This is your introduction or refresher on how you can make the most out of your Chamber Membership. Learn about the Chamber Group Benefits Plan; cost savings programs for Staples, First Data and more; marketing opportunities; advocacy; events and other info you need to know.
Mayor Charlie Clark gives a progress report on innovation and inclusion at the City of Saskatoon. Hear Mayor Clark’s strategy to unlock the city’s full potential as he discusses smart growth, automation, sustainability, disruptive technology and a changing global economy.
DATE: Wednesday, April 1st TIME: 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm LOCATION: LB Distillers
SPEAKER: Mayor Charlie Clark
Join us for an incredible evening of networking, cocktails and delectable cuisine as we honour the Saskatoon region's finest businesses!
DATE: Tuesday, April 9th TIME: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm LOCATION: TCU Place
DATE: Friday, April 24th TIME: 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm LOCATION: TCU Place
PLEASE REGISTER FOR THIS COMPLIMENTARY EVENT 4 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON
MARCH / APRIL 2020
Saskatoon and region offers many shining examples of organizations that have raised the standards for the community, industry at large and even the world in the quality of their products, services and economic and community contributions.
FROM THE CEO
Your Voice in Business
Image: Gina’s Portraits
As the voice of business for Saskatoon, the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce worked diligently and in the best interest of our business community throughout a year that brought many challenges and changes. Welcome to the end of the first quarter of 2020! At the Chamber, we have been busy developing our next season of events, working on current and upcoming advocacy files and the provincial budget scorecard. We are also gearing up for three elections in November that will impact our members; the City of Saskatoon municipal election, the provincial election and the US election. Saskatchewan is well-positioned to provide what the world needs outside our own borders. We currently export approximately 70 percent of what we produce and our neighbors to the south are our largest customer. So what happens in the US can, and will, highly impact our local business community. Recently, I had the opportunity to convene with peers from major cities across the US and Canada to talk about some of the emerging issues that are being faced in their communities. Currently, many US cities are experiencing an economic boom, where they are seeing increased investment into their communities and growth in almost every area. This is great news for the business communities located in these jurisdictions, however, rapid growth does also come with challenges. The biggest challenge that these US business communities appear to be facing is workforce and talent initiatives. In the words of one of my peers: “Workforce has surged ahead of economic development.” Communities have so much investment and growth, they are struggling to fill the jobs that come along with that growth. In Saskatchewan, we have felt the ripples of similar economic conditions in 2013 and 2014, when our employment rate was low and our economy was booming. Fast forward to today, times have changed and our province is now facing public policy and traderelated headwinds. The majority of these headwinds are coming from the national level and have been slowing our growth. Because of this, workforce development is not as high a provincial priority as economic development at this moment in time. It’s important for our community to focus on economic growth through investment attraction and to also realize that once achieved, we can’t be caught behind on the workforce side of the economic equation. We have amazing people in Saskatchewan who work hard, are driven to succeed and have the grit to get it done. Let’s make sure they are ready when the headwinds turn!
Darla Lindbjerg, CEO Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce Outside of our continent, the Chamber has been working to expose our members and community to other economies and cultures through the Chamber Tour concierge travel series. Our recent sold-out tour to Egypt and Dubai in January created a unique opportunity for a group of people from Saskatoon to grow in their knowledge level and awareness of these parts of the world. The next Chamber Tour trip is to Thailand and scheduled for October 2020. If you have ever wanted to experience Thailand, this is a great way to do it. I encourage you to check out our website; applications are open until the end of March and expected to sell out fast. At the Chamber, we believe connections are a key to building your business’s success. We welcome you to join us at an upcoming luncheon, Chamber on Tap, roundtable or other Chamber event – whatever suits your schedule and needs. Two must-attend events we have coming up very shortly are the Chamber’s Annual State of the City Address, which promises to be interesting considering this is an election year, and the SABEX Awards on April 24 – where we celebrate the success our business community has achieved over the past year and learn from their journeys. I look forward to seeing you there!
Darla Lindbjerg, President & CEO, Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON
MARCH / APRIL 2020 5
NEWSMAKERS
NEW MEMBERS Abode Crafted Wood Furnishings Retailer of solid wood Canadian made furniture for dining room, bedroom, living room and home office. Also have great quality line of upholstered living room pieces; recliners, accent chairs etc. Gerrit Verdouw
819 2nd Ave N, Saskatoon p: (306) 934-1733 w: www.abodefurnishings.ca Retail - Home Furnishings / Decor BizAcademi Focusing on business development and growth, courses integrate important business development tools and strategies with activities and skills that foster lifelong learning and personal growth. Lana Sheppard
8-3415 Calder Cres, Saskatoon p: (306) 261-2593 w: bizacademi.com, Consultants – Business AND Education / Training Carnivora™ Manufactures local, sustainably sourced raw, whole-animal pet food. Based on the evolutionary needs of dogs and cats, Carnivora™ products give companion pets a healthier, longer life. Shawn Magee
202-2750 Faithfull Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 665-0856 w: www.carnivora.ca Manufacturers Concept3 Business Interiors Full service contract office furniture dealership, provides the knowledge and expertise necessary to develop truly inspirational, and innovative office solutions. Stephenn Glauser
40-3904 Milllar Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 343-2183 w: www.c3bi.ca Office Furniture / Equipment
(December 2019 & January 2020)
Dr. K. Insley Medical Aesthetics Medical aesthetics office providing injectables, laser treatments, medical grade skin care and makeup. Jason Warner
928B 8 St E, Saskatoon p: (306) 974-6590 w: drkinsley.ca Cosmetic / Esthetic - Services / Supplies th
DriveNation One of the fastest growing auto dealerships in Canada, DriveNation Saskatoon opened in 2012. No commission, no fees, no haggling and no credit needed - the best way to a buy a used car. Kyle Senger
1012 Central Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 978-3373 w: www.drivenation.ca Automobile - Lease / Rental / Sales Edward Jones Edward Jones's success is attributed to our principles and personal long-term approach to investing. We were built for our clients and our purpose is to make a difference in their lives. Judy Bray / Joy Crawford / Christopher Hoffos / Blair Lukan / Michael Riel
7-270 Acadia Dr, Saskatoon p: (306) 664-1969 w: www.edwardjones.ca Financial Services / Planning AND Insurance Companies / Agents
Emrose Cleaning Services Ltd. Known for quality services, exceptional efficiency and the highest level of professionalism. No matter what service you're looking for, they guarantee to not only meet, but exceed your expectations. Charlene Sampaga
303 Hassard Close, Saskatoon p: (306) 713-0104 w: www.emrosecleaningservice.com Janitorial / House Cleaning Services
Eyelusionz Beauty Concepts Provides eyelash extension, micro blading and waxing services. Eva Zacharias
219A 21st St E, Saskatoon p: (306) 381-5274 w: www.eyelusionz.com Cosmetic / Esthetic - Services / Supplies Foundation Chiropractic and Wellness Ltd. The owners, Dr. Lindsey and Dr. Janine, are proud to offer a wellness focused and family centred chiropractic clinic. Janine Johnson
60-3211 Preston Ave S, Saskatoon p: (306) 955-8808 w: www.foundationchiropractic.ca Health Care - Services / Supplies AND Massage Therapy Grow Personal Development Services Ltd. Through the use of exercise, yoga, and holistic coaching, Grow helps clients to become more self-aware so that they can develop a more holistic approach to their life balance and self-care. Tara Tse
B-629 Main St, Saskatoon p: (639) 470-3717 w: www.growyxe.com Health & Fitness HearingLife Across Canada, HearingLife consists of over 200 hearing healthcare clinics and nearly 500 dedicated professionals proudly united behind one simple vision ''to help more people hear better''. Valerie Marcoux
16-1945 McKercher Dr,Saskatoon p: (306) 979-4543 w: www.hearinglife.ca Health Care - Services / Supplies JDS Building Supply Ltd. Exterior building material supplier specializing in stone, stucco, siding, decking, and railing. Justin Scheuer
600-3936 Brodsky Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 244-1411 w: www.jdsbuild.ca Retail - Builders Supplies 6 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON
MARCH / APRIL 2020
NEWSMAKERS
NEW MEMBERS Karma Film Inc. National and International Award winning Film, TV and Digital Content production company based in Saskatoon since 2001. Experienced in Live Action, Animation, LVR and AR content production.
Robynne Smith Physiotherapy Provides services to most conditions, mainly focusing on dizziness, vertigo and balance issues. Offers seminars in Saskatchewan creating awareness on these specific topics
627 6th St E, Saskatoon p: (306) 221-8664 w: www.karmafilm.ca Video / Film - Productions / Equipment
716 2nd Ave N, Saskatoon p: (306) 260-6098 w: saskbalance.ca Consultants - Medical / Disability AND Health Care - Services / Supplies
Anand Ramayya
Kernels Since 1983 Kernels has been making a sensational range of flavours for the ideal snack time. With more than 80 stores across Canada, they are committed to uncompromising quality and a-maize-ing taste. Todd Stranden
Midtown Plaza, Saskatoon p: (306) 652-4600 w: www.kernels.net Retail AND Food Processors / Distributors Orangetheory Fitness A 1 hour full body workout, focusing on heart rate based interval training using a combination of cardio and strength training. A total-body workout ensures you maximize your 60-minutes. Brittany Klassen
102-311 Cope Lane, Saskatoon p: (306) 244-6764 w: stonebridge.orangetheoryfitness.com Health & Fitness Prairie Pulse Inc. A specialty crop processing facility specializing in lentils and canary seed. Prairie Pulse has been marketing and exporting on behalf of Western Canadian farmers since 1995. Pablo Acevedo
PO Box 399, 700 Campbell Dr, Vanscoy p: (306) 249-9236 w: www.prairiepulse.com Import / Export
DO BUSINESS WITH
(December 2019 & January 2020)
Robynne Smith
Rumley Periodontics Provider of specialty periodontal dental services. This includes treatment of periodontal diseases, hard and soft tissue grafting, and the placement of dental implants. Kale Wudrich
102-224 Pacific Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 700-1101 w: rumleyperiodontics.ca Dental Care - Services / Supplies Saskatchewan Realtors Association Non-profit corporation providing a variety of services to REALTORÂŽ members in Saskatoon and district. Jason Yochim
1705 McKercher Dr, Saskatoon p: (306) 244-4453 w: www.sra.ca Associations / Clubs / Organizations AND Non-Profit Organizations Saskatoon Women's Network A growing, networking organization that provides fun, interactive ways for women to connect. Barb Zerebeski
202-1630 Quebec Ave, Saskatoon p: (306) 931-6118 w: swnsaskatoon.com Non-Profit Organizations
A CHAMBER MEMBER FIRST
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 Sylvia Fedoruk Canadian Centre for Nuclear Innovations Our purpose is to place Saskatchewan among global leaders of nuclear research, development and training. Lidia Matei
303-111 Research Dr, Saskatoon p: (306) 966-3379 w: www.fedorukcentre.ca Non-Profit Organizations Unmask and Evolve Wholistic Health & Wellness Providing fast, convenient, and experienced Nurse Practitioner services to your home or office. Shasta Zeeman
p: (306) 230-4026 w: www.unmaskandevolve.ca Health Care - Services / Supplies Winmar Saskatoon Property restoration including water, mold, fire and asbestos and general renovations and repairs. Joe Billesberger
3-805 56th St E, Saskatoon p: (306) 956-0000 w: winmarsaskatoon.ca Construction YXL Real Estate Investments A service based real estate investment company helping people reach financial freedom through real estate. Working with investors to add another revenue stream to their portfolio via real estate. Fraser Nybo
p: (306) 292-9748 w: yxlrealestate.ca Investments / Venture Capital AND Real Estate - Commercial
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON
MARCH / APRIL 2020 7
NEWSMAKERS
MEMBER RENEWALS (Paid in (December 2019 & January 2020)) 101302247 Sask Ltd. 3D Safety Consulting 617311 Saskatchewan Ltd. 628495 Saskatchewan Ltd. Advanced Electronic Solutions Ltd. AECOM Canada Ltd. Ag-West Bio Inc. Alliance Energy Ltd. Allied Physicians Medical Prof Corp. aodbt architecture + interior design Archway Landscaping Ltd. ASL Paving Ltd. Aspire Too BHP Big Brothers Big Sisters of Saskatoon & Area Biggsy Enterprises Inc. Bill's House of Flowers
Brandt Engineered Products BRITEBOX Storage Co. Brunsdon Lawrek & Associates Cactus Roofing Ltd. Cameco Corporation Canadian Corps of Commissionaires Canadian Light Source Inc. Canadian Tire Associate Store Confederation Cargill Limited Charlie's Seafood Market Cherry Insurance Choice Nutrition Choice Realty Systems CLAC CoHR Solutions Commerce Holdings Limited Con-Tech General Contractors Ltd.
Write your next CHAPTER Life at Stonebridge Crossing is where the next part of your life story begins. Call today or visit StonebridgeCrossing.ca to arrange your personal visit and be our guest for lunch.
102 Wellman Crescent Saskatoon | 306-974-7990 StonebridgeCrossing.ca
8 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON
MARCH / APRIL 2020
Costco Wholesale Inc. - Marquis CP Technical Services Ltd. Crosby Hanna & Associates Custom Labels Inc. Custom Trenching Ltd. D Stein Construction D'reen's Catering and Kitchen Socials Davis Machine Company (1960) Ltd. DCG Philanthropic Services Inc. Ddiy Property Maintenance & Renos Ltd. DDJ Accounting Services Della's Music House Derrick Stretch Realty Inc. Dr. Christopher J. Strelioff Optometrist Prof. Corp. Dr. Petrus Jansen van Rensburg M.C. Dynamic Agencies East West Heating Inc. Edmonton International Airport Elim Church End of the Roll Farm Credit Canada FASD Network of SK First Nations Bank of Canada Five Corner Smoke Shop Fourth Avenue Vision Centre Fresh Living Furbaby Pet Care Inc. furnaceguys Home Heating & Cooling Inc. Furry Friends Animal Hospital Gall Law Office Glenwood Auto Service Global Infobrokers Inc. Golden Opportunities Fund Inc. Golder Associates Ltd. Good Wood Hardwood Greenline Electric Inc. Handy Special Events Hauck Podiatry Prof. Corp. Heart and Stroke Foundation of Saskatchewan Heat Freak
NEWSMAKERS High Arc Electrical Houghton Boston Printers Hughes Recruitment Inc. InfraReady Products Ltd. Inland Audio Visual Interlink Research Inc. Iron Mountain J & T Income Tax Service Inc. JMK Massage Therapy K. M. Paulson Goldsmith Ltd. K&K Swim School KatrinaGerman.com Kinnaird Bagpipes & Reeds Inc. KPMG MSLP Lafarge Canada Inc. Lana Wickstrom Separation Specialist Ltd. Lane Mechanical Inc. Layer3 IT Business Solutions Inc. LB Distillers Inc. Living Sky Café MacDermid Lamarsh MacMat Education Services Martensville Plumbing & Heating Ltd. Maurice Soulodre Architect Ltd. Maximum Poly Inc. McClure Place Association Inc. McMaster Photographers Medicine Shoppe on 33rd Meewasin Valley Authority Midtown Plaza Millennium III - M3 Securities Millis Nutritional Healing MLCN Investment Management Corp. Morgan Palmer Search Directives Inc. Nine Yards Technologies Nordic Industries (1979) Ltd. North 49 Physical Therapy Prof. Corp. North Saskatoon Business Assoc. Nu Vu Auto Glass & Repair Omnilogic Systems One Stop Property Maintenance Original Joes 8th Street Paddock Wood Brewing Payworks Pembrook Capital Advisors Inc. PGI Printers Phoenix Movement & Learning Ltd. Prairie Crane Inc.
Prairie Laser Inc. Prairie River Cruises Ltd. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP Pritchard & Associates, Chartered Professional Accountants, Prof. Corp. Pure Zen Cleaning Solutions PWP Holdings Inc. Quadrant Newmedia Corp. Quality Sheet Metal Inc. Radius Community Centre for Education & Employment Training Radouga Distilleries Inc. Rainbow International Restoration RBC Royal Bank READ Saskatoon Real Canadian Property Management Professionals Inc. Realty Executives Saskatoon Remai Construction Group Inc. Remai Modern Réseau Santé en français de la Saskatchewan Rob Friesen Real Estate P.C. Inc. Rosler Construction Salon Vibe Sandy Shores Resort SARC Saskatchewan Construction Association Saskatchewan Health Authority Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies Saskatoon Agri-Auto Parts Inc. Saskatoon Co-operative Association Limited Saskatoon Downtown Youth Centre Saskatoon Home Support Ltd. Saskatoon Metal Mfg. Saskatoon Opera Saskatoon Soccer Centre Inc. Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra Saskatoon Zoo Society SaskTel SaskTel Centre Service Canada Shiron Holdings Simply Agriculture Solutions Inc. Special Olympics Saskatchewan Saskatoon Spicers
SREDA Inc. SRF4 Market Mall Inc. St. Volodymyr Villa Corporation STC Industrial Contracting Steel-Craft Door Sales Super 8 Motel Tanis R. Taylor Terminal Systems International The Bassment The Centre The Neighbourhood Church The Optimist Club of Saskatoon Inc. The Saskatoon Club The Wireless Age Thurston Engineering Services Trades Labour Corporation Trinity Safety & Training Tucker Cleaning Inc. Twisted Goods Inc. Tyson Pederson Consulting Ltd. Uniglobe Carefree Travel Limited unINK Internet Marketing Corp. University of Regina - External Relations Vendera National Inc. Verb Media - Parity Publishing Inc. Vern's Place Husky Voce Developments Corporation Welldone Mechanical Services Inc. West Wind Aviation Westcrest Embroidery Corp. Western Economic Diversification Canada Western Heritage Woodstyles Woodworking Co. Ltd. Worry Free Bookkeeping Inc. Yield10 Bioscience
THIS MONTH'S NON-PROFIT FEATURE
PAGE 22
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON
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NEWSMAKERS
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS
Adele Buettner
AgriBiz Communications Corp
Adele Buettner of AgriBiz Communications Corp. is honoured to be named as an inductee to the Saskatchewan Agriculture Hall of Fame in 2020. Adele has held many leadership roles during her career, including serving on the Boards of SaskTel Centre, Saskatoon Prairieland Park, Agriculture in the Classroom (Sask), the Canadian Centre for Food Integrity, and WESK’s Advisory Committee on the Gender Entrepreneurship Gap, among others. For more than 26 years, her company has served the management, marketing and communication needs of agriculture and food organizations and businesses across Canada and beyond. Through her ongoing efforts as a champion of agriculture, Adele has pioneered in the area of building public trust in agriculture in our country. The induction ceremony will take place on April 18, 2020 in Saskatoon. www.agribiz.ca
Allegro Montessori School
Based on the pedagogy of Dr. Maria Montessori, Allegro Montessori School creates lifelong learners and curious, responsible,
10 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON
Bateman Jewellers
Canpotex
For 30 years Bateman Jewellers has been my home. Born and raised in Saskatoon I’m proud to be a part of the Saskatchewan Business Community. Bateman Jewellers is the oldest independent jewellery store in the Province. Our difference is in the personalized family style we offer to customers and clients (some for over 4 generations). From repairs to custom design or evaluations of family heirlooms. We are also a big supporter of local charities and events. This year come help celebrate at our 3 Day ½ Price Sale in May and our 75th Anniversary in October. Cameron Kripki, G.G. Co–Owner, Bateman Jewellers, Graduate Gemologist (G.I.A.), Watch Repairman www.batemanjewellers.com
Canpotex welcomed their new President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Gordon McKenzie in January. Gord has over 25 years of experience in the fertilizer sector, most recently serving as Vice President, Global Sales with The Mosaic Company. His role there included responsibility for the company’s global phosphate and North American potash sales and marketing. At Canpotex Gord will lead the company’s continued focus on serving its customers in overseas potash while maintaining the organizations position as the world’s leading exporter of potash. Canpotex markets and delivers Canadian potash, a valuable fertilizer nutrient to overseas markets, on behalf of its Shareholders, Mosaic and Nutrien. Canpotex’s top export markets include Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia. www.canpotex.com
independent thinkers. At the heart of this constructivist philosophy children learn by guided independent study, making meaning of their personal environment. Our Directors are Montessori trained and our Elementary Directors have B. Ed. Degrees and Masters in Montessori. Allegro’s facility provides Toddler (18 months - 2.5 yrs), Preschool/Kindergarten (2.5 – 6 yrs) and Elementary (grade 1 6) Programs. Registered as a Qualified Independent School with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education our Elementary
Program meets the educational requirements of the Saskatchewan and Montessori curricula. www.allegromontessori.ca
MARCH / APRIL 2020
CHAMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PAGE 39
NEWSMAKERS
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS
Dutch Growers
Dutch Growers is a family business that has been in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan since 1953. What began as a nursery has since expanded into product offerings of home, gourmet, giftware, and fashion to become an entire one-stop lifestyle store! We are a community and family-focused business; what we do not grow in our store or at our 80-acre nursery, we travel the world to source. Dutch Growers exists to inspire lifestyle
experiences. Built on a foundation of experience, we are committed to staying ahead of industry trends, bringing the highest quality products and services to our customers. Our main focus is to ensure that every customer that comes to Dutch Growers feels inspired and educated. Shop 24/7 at www.DutchGrowers.com or visit us @DutchSaskatoon on Facebook or Instagram.
German Cultural Centre
We started out as a small German club, for immigrants and family members in 1957, has now, 63 years later, turned into a full restaurant and event centre. The German Cultural Centre offers a unique German dining experience for both members and public, unlike any in Saskatoon. From Schnitzel to Strudel, you can try some of
the best home cooked German cuisine with your family and friends. The event halls are available for rent year round and host some amazing concerts and festivals, including Oktoberfest, which are open to the general public. We are open Tuesday through Sunday, come and join us for a boot of beer! Prost! www.saskgerman.com
Hauck Podiatry
Dr. Edward Hauck started his private practice in 1998 after over 17 years in the public health care system. He is fortunate to have his son, Dr. Jonathan Hauck, join him this past summer, who, after completing his studies in the UK, has partnered with him. Podiatrists keep people on their feet. The human foot is subjected to various environments every day, especially now that we work and walk in the concrete jungles we have built. Every step a person takes generates a force equal to 2 ½ times your body weight!! We assess, diagnose and treat numerous conditions of the foot and manifestations of conditions that affect the foot and associated limbs, from systemic diseases and symptoms affecting the kinetic chain from abnormal foot biomechanics. With a combined clinical and research experience of over 42 years, we offer a range of services including, but not limited to prescription custom made orthotics and bracing, diabetic screenings, wound management and care, musculoskeletal pathologies, skin and nail pathologies and most other foot and ankle ailments. Referrals not required however your third party insurance may. We are located at 203-514 Queen St., Saskatoon. Phone: 306 653-4151.
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NEWSMAKERS
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS
Kinakin Entertainment
Kinakin Entertainment is an emerging leader in Saskatchewan’s event production market, providing an unparalleled breadth of complete entertainment solutions including magic, DJing, and hypnosis services. We are elated to announce three new services we will be offering this upcoming year. The first new addition is our Casino Party which is great for any event large or small! We supply the tables, dealers and endless fun! Our second service is our Family Feud-Style Game Show which allows for many different teams to go head-to-head on stage. Lastly our PhotoMirror Booth can be a perfect addition to any event! www.andrewkinakin.com
Orchid Horticulture
After over fifteen years of service to the horticulture world, the School of Horticulture has evolved to become Orchid Horticulture. Patricia Hanbidge is the Lead Horticulturist for the team at Orchid Horticulture who specializes in: horticulture consulting; postsecondary education and training including the evolving cannabis industry; landscape design; interiorscapes; production; floral design and horticulture therapy. Horticulture is a continuously evolving sector with endless opportunities – all that is lacking is the highly skilled and experienced people to further elevate the industry. For all your needs relating to the world of horticulture look no further than Orchid Horticulture at www.orchidhort.com.
MacMat Education Services
Organizations are committed to their communities; yet the reality is that communities are changing whether you are in Yorkton, in Saskatoon, in Vancouver, or in London. On the surface, communities today are characterized by their diversity (e.g. ethnicity, age, gender). However, developing successful organizational responses to changing community needs means getting beneath the 12 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON
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Primerica Financial Services
This young entrepreneur, Curtis Forcier, along with his wife and business partner Annika, operates a personal financial business here in Saskatoon. They specialize in helping middle-income families and professionals define their path to financial independence. Graduates of the University of Saskatchewan; Curtis in engineering and Annika in nutrition, they have decided to make Saskatoon their home. They are both active volunteers in the Saskatoon community including the Chamber on Tap project team. Curtis recently had the pleasure of speaking at the IEEE Illumination Conference hosted by the U of S Engineering Department. Curtis loves to share his passion and is a regular presenter at Primerica events.
surface of an organization’s culture – examining those individual and collective assumptions and values that are driving the organization. Roots to Growth: Profound Exploration of What’s Really Driving Your Organization is an innovative program recently developed by MacMat Education Services. For more information, contact www.macmat.biz.
NEWSMAKERS
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS
Rivercity Innovations Ltd. PIC Investment Group Inc.
PIC Investment Group (PIC) is a family office that opened its doors in Saskatoon in 1976. PIC has grown to eight majority owned companies - ClearTech Industries, Caron Transportation Systems, Panther Industries, CanGas Propane, Kreos Aviation, Round Table Management, Long Lake Insurance and Adventure Destinations in Northern Saskatchewan. Along with its operating companies, PIC supports entrepreneurship and invests in people through twenty-two minority company investments across North America. Greg Yuel, President and CEO has carried on the family tradition of a strong customer oriented culture throughout the PIC Group of Companies. “We take care of our customers, suppliers and partners and help them find the right answers. Each company looks for ways to help its sister companies and all of that protects and grows the PIC Group”. www.picgroup.ca
SUBMIT YOUR STORIES TO: bv@saskatoonchamber.com
Rivercity Innovations Ltd. won the inaugural 2017 Rural Crime Innovation Challenge, an Innovation Saskatchewan technology initiative. Over the last two years our company has engineered our cellular and LoRa GPS tracker solution called BeeSecure, now helping businesses, communities, and the public prevent theft in Canada and the USA. Our current clients include dealers and owners of trailers, sleds, ATV’s and yes,
bees! We also operate a LoRa network in rural Saskatchewan for Ag Tech. In the Spring we will be launching our exciting new bicycle GPS tracker for cities worldwide. Find us at www.beesecure.ca or call 306986-8888 to speak with Jeff or Lance and see how we can help you prevent theft and track your assets.
Wilton Academy of Music
Wilton Academy of Music offers a wide array of music programming that has existed in the Saskatoon community for over 35 years, formerly as the Community Music Education Program housed at the University of Saskatchewan. Nicole Wilton took this business off campus in 2015 to ensure its continued growth and success. With several venues throughout the city, Wilton Academy offers a unique, specialized curriculum in early childhood music education through age-specific group classes as well as city-wide outreach with daycare music programming. In addition, private instrumental lessons in piano, guitar and violin are available for all ages (both traditional and Suzuki methods). All teachers are musicians and early childhood educators, providing quality music education to over 400 Saskatoon families. www.wiltonmusic.com
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NEWSMAKERS
COMMUNITY Wanuskewin
“Over the past 27 years Wanuskewin has become synonymous with Saskatchewan. The park is a National historic site, the longest running archaeological dig site in Canadian history and was named to the UNESCO World Heritage Designation tentative list in 2017. This iconic park was also awarded the top Indigenous Tourism Destination in the country by the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, in 2016 and again in 2019. In addition the Government of Saskatchewan has named Wanuskewin’s bid for UNESCO designation as a priority in their 2019 Plan for Growth. The reason for this provincial, national and international recognition all comes down
to our organization fulfilling our mandate of sharing Indigenous Culture through educational programs, the culinary arts, visual arts and immersive experiences. We are very proud of our legacy in the province as being a center of excellence, however, we do not rest on past accomplishments. The park is currently undergoing an expansion of our land our heritage centre, as well as a brand new conference and event center. This expansion is a result of the incredibly successful “Thundering Ahead” campaign that has fundraised nearly 40 million dollars. These funds allow us to offer robust programming, permanent exhibits as well as experiences such as our brand new bison paddocks. In early December of 2019 Wanuskewin welcomed 11 plains bison who will make a significant impact on reclaiming and preserving endangered grasslands habitat.
MARCH 25 - APRIL 8, 2020
APRIL 29 - MAY 13, 2020
A TOUR DE FORCE WITH TWO ACTORS PLAYING A CAST OF DOZENS
A BITINGLY HILARIOUS LOOK AT THE GAP BETWEEN SOCIETY’S HAVE AND HAVE-NOTS.
PERSEPHONETHEATRE.ORG BOX OFFICE: (306) 384-7727 • REMAI ARTS CENTRE, 100 SPADINA CRES E
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MARCH / APRIL 2020
Wanuskewin is a treasure in Saskatoon’s backyard and we encourage you to enjoy and share this gift with your family and friends.” Photos from www.wanuskewin.com
PROMOTIONAL FEATURE
Top 10 Google Myths for 2020 by Mouneeb Shahid, founder of 2Web.ca Every business needs sales to survive. Most entrepreneurs understand the power Google has when it comes to acquiring customers. Unfortunately, the digital landscape is highly turbulent and many business owners tend to implement archaic strategies that are no longer impactful. In the hopes of climbing the Google ladder, we tend to forget what matters most; the user experience. 2020 marks the year where the 2Web team has completed over 1,000 web-based projects. Over the past 15 years, we have learned a thing or two on how Google works. It is no surprise that the recipe for getting higher rankings is always evolving. It has to because there will always be a limited number of spots on the first page and many more businesses competing for their share to be found. Every user is trusting Google to deliver accurate results that meet their query. Rarely do users today go to the second page of Google. In the essence of saving your time, following are the top 10 Google / SEO (Search Engine Optimization) myths: Website submission to Google: There is no need to submit your website to Google regularly. There are only two scenarios where we recommend submitting your website. The first is when its a brand new website and secondly when you have significant content updates requiring a change to the site-architecture. Link building: Links to your website are like "votes". However, you need to focus on building quality links to your website and
run far away from link-exchange offers. A tip is to try to create links to internal pages of content rather than just the homepage. The best approach is to build a blog that houses quality articles that resonate with your audience. Keywords matter: They used to, a lot! But not anymore. Google is much smarter now and the search results are now more conversational. They take into account the user journey and user experience when delivering results. Focus on creating content that resonates with your audience and avoid skewing the keyword density. Security: Rarely do we get to dive into the Google algorithm, however, Google has publicly claimed that security matters and having an SSL (Secure Socket Layer) certificate will impact rankings. Make sure your site is hosted on "https". Meta-tags and descriptions: The metadescription tag has no impact on SEO whatsoever. Think of it as a “sales pitch” that shows up below the link in the Google results. It should read well and encourage the user to click on the link and visit the page. The homepage should have lots of content: The homepage is an opportunity for you to create a strong impression on your audience, but many businesses litter it with all kinds of information. It is recommended that the goal of the homepage be to summarize important parts of the website and the key areas that you would like to focus on. There is only one goal of the homepage; to have the
user click on a link and dive deeper into the website to learn more about your business. The more pages, the better: This is not necessarily the case and depends on the kind of industry you are in. It is encouraged to create more pages but you should always focus on quality, rather than quantity. Local SEO does not matter: This couldn't be further from the truth. Ensure you have a Google My Business account and optimize your listing. Images: The visuals on your website need to be optimized for speed, size and accessibility. Mobile strategy: Important to note that over 60% of Canadian traffic on Google is on mobile devices. Ensure that your website presence is delivering the best experience. There is a lot more to Google than the above and you can download our free SEO checklist by visiting www.2web.ca.
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COVE R STORY
EY Empowers Locally and Connects Globally “Saskatoon exemplifies the spirit of both entrepreneurship and community like no other.”
Image: Saskatoon Chamber
by Elizabeth Ireland
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COVE R STORY
Jeff Pickett is Managing Partner of the professional services f irm EY in Saskatoon (some might recognize the f irm by its legal name Ernst & Young LLP). EY just recently moved its 115 employees into stunning new offices at River Landing, overlooking the South Saskatchewan River. Worldwide EY employs 280,000 people. “EY continues to focus on shaking things up in the marketplace and finding new ways to meet our clients’ needs. We’ve come a long way from our accounting firm roots – we’re advisors to the ambitious and the entrepreneurial,” says Pickett. Born and raised in Saskatoon, Pickett graduated from the University of Saskatchewan in Commerce and went on to earn his designation as a CPA, CA. He has since focused his career on providing core accounting, tax and advisory services to entrepreneurial and private companies. Pickett’s clients come from a wide range of industries, including construction, manufacturing, automotive and real estate.
Entrepreneurial Risk and Reward
“I grew up in an entrepreneurial family. There was always lots of shop talk around the dinner table. After 12 years in public practice,
and time spent assisting business owners with strategic planning, I got the itch to get into business myself,” says Pickett. At that point, Pickett left traditional accounting and joined a couple of his post-university friends in business. Experiencing success, within the next couple of years the friends started two other companies. “Becoming an entrepreneur and starting your own businesses takes determination and hard work. In the beginning, I looked after everything from sales and administration to maintenance and janitorial. It was a crash course in being an entrepreneur. After seven years of owning and running successful businesses, I had the opportunity to come home and join EY, which had recently acquired my predecessor firm HDS,” explains Pickett. The accounting firm HDS was acquired by EY in 2013, with HDS employees then becoming EY employees. With a focus on entrepreneurship and innovation, Pickett describes EY as fitting with his own professional vision immediately. “We pride ourselves on our deep knowledge and experience in the private client space. From assurance services and corporate tax planning to transaction support and business advisory services, EY offers a full suite of services to help business owners and entrepreneurs with all facets of their business.” While the Saskatoon office is EY’s only location in the province, Pickett describes strong relationships with clients in Regina and other Saskatchewan locales. “Entrepreneurs are the backbone of our local economy – individuals who have shown patience, perseverance and a vision toward building a better Saskatchewan. Entrepreneurs provide the network of products and services we all need and provide the jobs to allow us all to strengthen our communities.”
I grew up in an entrepreneurial family. There was always lots of shop talk around the dinner table. After 12 years in public practice, and time spent assisting business owners with strategic planning, I got the itch to get into business myself
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“
Jeff Pickett, Managing Partner, EY
MARCH / APRIL 2020
Image: Saskatoon Chamber
“
COVE R STORY local private business, supporting other local businesses, providing opportunities for local students coming out of university, and doing everything we can to be socially responsible in our community. I’m so proud to call Saskatoon home and to be part of the fabric of this great city.” Pickett is keen on the calibre of students he sees graduating from the University of Saskatchewan and entering the profession. It is easy to see how EY’s corporate culture, and now its gleaming downtown offices, would be appealing to students. The sparkling new offices boast a training centre, a sizable social area and open concept workspaces. While the design and layout are consistent with other EY offices, the Saskatoon workplace has incorporated local flourishes reflecting the city’s bridges and its reputation as a hub.
Image: Saskatoon Chamber
A City That Gives Back
Flagship Programs Prioritize Entrepreneurs
EY has two flagship programs dedicated to celebrating and supporting entrepreneurs. The EY Entrepreneur Of The Year® program recognizes entrepreneurs who have demonstrated the courage to take risks, the resilience to chase their dreams and to overcome adversity along the way. The selection process is extremely thorough, with entrepreneurs and former program participants making up an independent selection committee. The program categories represent different industries in five regions across Canada. Nominations for the 2020 program open March 1. Regina-based Murad Al-Katib, President and CEO of AGT Food and Ingredients, was named Canada’s EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2016 and subsequently EY World Entrepreneur Of The Year 2017 in Monaco. Pickett expresses the excitement of “riding shotgun” on Al-Katib’s global awards journey. As part of EY’s diversity and inclusion focus, its second flagship program is dedicated to women. The EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women™ program identifies high-potential female entrepreneurs and celebrates their accomplishments by helping them scale to the next level and connecting them with the advisors, resources and insights for sustainable business growth.
Saskatoon is well known for the generosity and community mindedness of its residents. Pickett is especially proud of this aspect of his hometown. His wife is a local health and wellness coach and they have raised their three children in the city. The Picketts’ oldest son is currently a student at the Edwards School of Business at the University of Saskatchewan. “In my opinion, no city believes in giving back as much as Saskatoon does. This community spirit is a perfect match for our culture at EY. We believe that by focusing on building strong and thriving communities, future generations of leaders will continue to build on that momentum. We’re extremely proud of our community involvement and believe it’s critical to the future success and growth of our city.” Some of the local community initiatives that EY supports include the Royal University Hospital Foundation, St. Paul’s Hospital Foundation, the Saskatoon Community Foundation, the Friendship Inn, HelpOne, Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre, Kinsmen Club of Saskatoon, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Saskatoon, YWCA Saskatoon, the United Way and the Gordie Howe Sports Complex. More grassroots education-related programs include the Westmount Community School’s Start2Finish program and Bishop Klein School’s Care & Share program. Along with its ongoing corporate community support, EY employees also dedicate themselves to their community one day each year. In 2019, Connect Day was held on October 4. EY shut down its office for the whole day and split its employees into teams to go out and lend a hand. Connect Day activities included preparing and serving meals at the Friendship Inn, painting at Saskatoon Interval House (a temporary shelter for women and their children) and planting at local community gardens. Finally, what are Pickett’s thoughts on Saskatchewan’s economic outlook? He looks towards increasing stabilization in the resource sector. “We are survivors. While we had some boom times, I think our business mindset remains tight and efficient. Saskatoon, and Saskatchewan, are poised for greatness.”
While Pickett now holds the position of Managing Partner with EY, being an entrepreneur is still in his DNA. “We run our firm like a BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON
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ADVOCACY
Working for You The Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce continues to actively advocate on behalf of its membership. Recent items to highlight include the following: Advocating a clear path forward for the ICI sector’s waste diversion strategy
Over the past several months, the City of Saskatoon has conducted a consultation period with various stakeholders to develop a comprehensive waste diversion plan for our Industrial, Commercial and Institutional (ICI) sector. Input gathered from the sector identified several important insights. The first being the business community’s preference for a voluntary approach to waste diversion. Second, if regulations are enforced, it must be done in a way that is the least cumbersome to business and has the smallest impact on the
bottom line. The Chamber took this input and, on behalf of our membership, advocated for a waste diversion strategy that will work with Saskatoon’s business community and not against it. The resulting strategy was passed by City Council in January and includes key Chamber recommendations. With regards to organics, the following factors are of note: businesses that do not primarily, as part of their operations, produce organic waste will not be required to have an organics bin. No time-intensive and invasive site visits will be conducted by the City. This will cut down on the City’s overhead costs and save individual businesses time. As well, the implementation process won’t begin until after the residential phase-in of organics. Currently, the phase-in for the first year for recycling will be during third quarter 2021 with the phase-in for organics during third quarter 2022. Although the majority of respondents in the City’s engagement study indicated they would prefer a voluntary approach, the Chamber believes that the collaborative approach the
City has taken has resulted in a reasonable outcome. Moving forward, the Chamber will encourage the City to consider the following: • Keep the implementation costs for the City to a minimum to ensure efficiency while maintaining effectiveness. • Provide clear guidelines to impacted businesses. • Provide clear and concise education materials that businesses can easily pass along to their employees. • Consider the implications of the space necessary to collect and remove organics. • Consider the costs to businesses and keep these costs to a minimum. • Monitor private haulers contracted to remove organic waste from businesses to ensure material disposal is in the appropriate location and not in the landfill. The Chamber applauds the City’s 70 percent waste reduction target, while at the same time is committed to ensuring Saskatoon’s competitiveness. We will continue to be a voice at the table when it comes to these important files.
2020-21 Provincial Budget Priorities
In late December, the Chamber started collecting comments for our 2020-21 provincial budget priorities. A survey was sent to our membership to identify the largest obstacles facing Saskatchewan’s business community, along with suggested policy positions that our community feels will lead to long-term sustainable growth of the province’s economy. Through our survey findings, in addition to the Chamber’s extensive ongoing engagement efforts, formal recommendations and key insights were submitted to Finance Minister Donna Harpauer. The priorities that were outlined throughout these recommendations focus on competitiveness, efficiency and growth. Key areas of note include the Chamber’s continued push for a competitive corporate tax rate. This is an area where Alberta is
increasingly gaining a competitive edge, as well as improving infrastructure investment to maximize their province’s ability to get commodities to market. In terms of efficiencies, looking at power costs compared to other jurisdictions and how these costs can have a negative impact on Saskatchewan businesses. We will evaluate the government’s move towards encouraging investment in the exciting field of small modular reactors and how this could have an immense impact on the province.
innovation and investment in the province, all areas that Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan promises to dive deeply over the next decade. Visit our website for a full list of the Chamber’s budget-related recommendations to the province. Prior to the budget’s release, the Chamber has set up a Provincial Budget Task Force to measure the budget in conjunction with the recommendations put forward on behalf of our members. A scorecard will be released to the public following the budget’s release on March 18th.
Creating opportunities for business growth comes from workforce development, BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON
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NON-PROFITS
Canadian Light Source Inc. Better data, faster… The Canadian Light Source (CLS) is a national research facility of the University of Saskatchewan and one of the largest science projects in Canada’s history, producing the brightest light in the country—millions of times brighter than even the sun. More than 1,000 academic, government and industry scientists from around the world use the Canadian Light Source every year, in innovative health, agriculture, environment, and advanced materials research. The CLS offers full analytical services for commercial clients. From data collection to complete analysis and reporting, the Industrial Science team helps solve research and development problems that are not easily answered through conventional analytical techniques. Our dedicated sector scientists develop an experimental outline based on the client’s need and conduct all data collection and analysis. A detailed report
provides all the key information for the client’s questions. Our scientists have a broad range of technical expertise, and we pride ourselves on quick responses to our clients
and fast turn around times. www.lightsource.ca/industry solutions@lightsource.ca
Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada
Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada is Canada’s largest all-Canadian wish granting organization, with over 27,000 wishes granted since 1984. Our office in Saskatoon serves 22 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON
children across the province from 3 – 17 years of age with serious illness, granting their one most heartfelt wish. Currently there are 127 children planning their wishes in
MARCH / APRIL 2020
Saskatchewan, with 42 of those in Saskatoon. The average cost of a wish is $10,000. Wishes can be items, celebrity related or travel to a dream destination. Recently, Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada and Make-A-Wish Canada have joined forces, with the goal of granting the wish of every eligible child across the country. Our mission is to provide children with life-threatening illnesses the opportunity to realize their most heartfelt wish, giving them the strength to endure their treatments and build resilience. Together, we will grant over 2,600 wishes annually by year 5 of the combined organization. With up to 6,000 children in Canada facing a critical illness and complex medical needs each year, this is an important step toward our goal of ensuring every eligible wish is granted. To find out how your organization can grant a local child’s wish contact Catherine Lunn directly at 306-477-8588 or catherine.lunn@ childrenswish.ca and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter @ChildrensWishSK.
NON-PROFITS
Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre
The Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre is a vital community-based agency in the heart of Saskatoon serving over 20,000 people each month. Almost half are children. Working in collaboration with our community, including volunteers, donors, supporters, and partners, we work to address the root causes
of poverty and uncover possibility in the lives of community members. We often partner with other community-based organizations to ensure a broad range of services and resources are available to community members. At the Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre we are committed to ensuring a food secure
community wherein all people have access to safe, affordable, and nutritious food. We believe that it is about community building, not just community helping. We are a progressive and collaborative organization. We use a systems approach to develop programs, services, and initiatives that address the underlying causes of food insecurity and poverty in our community. Our programs provide: Emergency Food Baskets Employment Education & Training Household Items and Clothing Cooking & Nutrition Financial Literacy Urban Agriculture Free Income Tax Preparation Our programs and strategic partnerships aim to address the underlying issues contributing to hunger and poverty. Together, we strive to reduce poverty and create a hunger-free community. For more information visit www. saskatoonfoodbank.org.
The Sylvia Fedoruk Canadian Centre for Nuclear Innovation Inc. (Fedoruk Centre) Fedoruk Centre: Funding, facilities and expertise for a stronger Saskatchewan. The Fedoruk Centre was established in 2011, on the campus of the University of Saskatchewan to place Saskatchewan among global leaders in nuclear research, development and training through investment in partnerships with academia and industry for maximum societal and economic benefit. The Fedoruk Centre works closely with the Saskatchewan universities to build multidisciplinary programs of research that will have positive impacts for the people of Saskatchewan. We operate the Saskatchewan Centre for Cyclotron Sciences (SCCS) – a cluster of high-quality facilities and expertise maintained in a state of readiness for access by researchers from academia and industry to accelerate new technologies through nuclear imaging. Since 2016, our locally manufactured radiopharmaceutical (called FDG) has been delivered routinely to enable Positron Emitting Tomography (PET) imaging for cancer diagnosis in hospitals
across three provinces Alberta, Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Owned by the University of Saskatchewan and operated by the Fedoruk Centre the SCCS is an excellent resource for cutting-edge research in nuclear medicine to diagnose and cure diseases in humans and animals. Other researchers are applying the same tools to advance the resilience of crops
to disease and climate change or other biotechnologies. We enjoy sharing with you the inspiration and wonder that goes along with the process of discovery and innovation. We welcome your thoughts, questions and feedback!
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PROFILE
PROFILE
Saskatoon Funeral Home A Fourth Generation Family Business
Image: Saskatoon Chamber
by Elizabeth Ireland
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PROFILE
Saskatoon Funeral Home (SFH) is operated by the Edwards family and is the only locallyowned funeral service provider left in our city. The SFH team is highly experienced in managing traditional and non-traditional funeral services for individuals of various faiths and philosophies. The Edwards family employs 25 full-time employees and another 40 part-time employees, many of whom have been with the organization for 10 plus years. Founder and great grandfather William A. Edwards was born in Ontario in 1886. He moved to Saskatoon as an undertaker at the age of 24 and established what has become a 110-year family enterprise. His son Arnold continued to build the family’s business (interestingly, Arnold was trained as a social worker). Now representing the third generation of the family, Bill Edwards is President and a Funeral Director at SFH. Bill is also a registered architect who practiced for three decades. Working alongside his father, Bill’s son Morgan Edwards (fourth generation) is General Manager, Funeral Director and Embalmer.
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In addition, Morgan’s mother Eleanor coordinates the Edwards Family Centre. Established in 1995, the centre provides a place for funeral luncheons and memorial receptions. The centre also offers a grief-related lending library and supports non-profit community groups by providing a comfortable location to meet at no cost. After graduating in commerce from the University of Saskatchewan, Morgan worked for seven years at the non-profit organization SaskAbilities. It was an experience he describes as “very rewarding.” Morgan joined the family business in 2007 and earned his professional certification as a funeral director and embalmer. From an outsider’s perspective, it seems that funeral services might not be a career suited to everyone. “Being comfortable one-onone with people is an asset, as well as having a warm and relatable
Image: Saskatoon Chamber
PROFILE
personality. Luckily, these are characteristics that come quite naturally to us in Saskatoon and Saskatchewan in general,” says Morgan. SFH’s current downtown location is a distinctive mid-century modern building. It is worth noting that SFH is the only Saskatoon funeral provider with 24-hour onsite attendance and guardianship for loved ones. “It’s an unpredictable profession in terms of hours, although Saturdays are often the most sought-after days for funeral services. A pitfall that funeral directors can experience in the industry is allowing oneself to go down the path of grief with a family, rather than being there for the family. It’s a fine line but achieving that balance can make the difference between burnout and a successful career. In many ways, being a funeral director is more of a vocation or calling,” says Morgan. Bill Edwards notes the spiritual and cultural diversity of the funeral services that SFH provides is achieved by working directly with faith-based community leaders. He describes Saskatoon in the early 1900s as “very Judeo-Christian at first.” Responding to the diverse changes in our community over the past century, the SFH team provides services to all faiths and backgrounds. With a growing community comes demand for specialized services, such as repatriation to an overseas country for final burial. In the case of a military funeral, the repatriation arrangements are back to Canada and done in partnership with the federal government. Other businesses under the Edwards family ownership umbrella include Westwood Funeral and Cremation Services, located on 20th Street West in the Pleasant Hill neighbourhood. In 1970, the Edwards family established Prairie View Crematorium – the first crematorium in the province, located just south of the city on Highway 11, in a setting of peace and serenity. Demand for cremation services continues to increase.
The Edwards family also assists individuals and families with the loss of a pet through its Family Pet Cremation Services. This business works with veterinarians throughout Saskatoon and the surrounding area. Family pets range from cats and dogs to more exotic animals such as emus and snakes. While it might seem a delicate question, what are the trends in funerals in 2020? “In Saskatoon, more than 60 percent of services today are cremations. Trends in our industry tend to move from the west coast to east coast so we often look to British Columbia for what’s next. There are fewer public visitations than there used to be. Baby boomers in particular are more interested in planning ahead, sometimes with a less formal gathering or a celebration of life,” says Morgan. Other trends that Morgan notes include livestreaming funerals, particularly if family members are located overseas or not mobile. Another first that the Edwards family has brought to Saskatoon is a telepresence robot that attends the funeral – providing a way for a family member to give a eulogy, visit with family and guests, or pay their respects from another city or country. Recently, SFH partnered with the Western Development Museum in Saskatoon for the W.A. Edwards Funeral Home Exhibit on Boomtown (a life-size Prairie town set in 1910). This permanent exhibit is the first of its kind in Canada and highlights the history of funeral service in Saskatchewan through mementos and storytelling. SFH remains committed to the values of compassion, dignity, integrity and professional excellence. Saskatoon Funeral Home 338 - 4th Avenue North (306) 244-5577 mail@saskatoonfuneralhome.com saskatoonfuneralhome.com BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON
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STATE OF THE
CITY STATE
OFONTHE PULSE POLITICS
CITY STATE OF THE
CITY Mayor Charlie Clark Tuesday, April 9th 11:30 am - 1:00 pm TCU Place
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TECHNOLOGY
Saskatchewan’s Intersection of Education and Innovation by Elizabeth Ireland
Jordan Dutchak, Executive Director of Co.Labs, discusses the uniqueness of Minister Tina Beaudry-Mellor’s role. In our province, the Minister of Advanced Education is also the Minister responsible for Innovation Saskatchewan (as well as the Minister responsible for the Status of Women). Dutchak sees the synergy of combining advanced education with innovation and describes it as “a competitive advantage.” Interestingly, there are a number of education technology (or EdTech) startups and scale-ups in Saskatoon. Athlete Era is notably one of them and was cofounded by Corey Edington, Andrew Leslie and Kent Walters (Athlete-Era.com). This start-up provides mobile learning apps for sports and augmented reality software and has been in the Co.Labs Program since the very beginning. Located in the same building as Co.Labs, Greg Sutton is CEO of TinyEYE Therapy Services. Sutton has been a Co.Labs Board member since its inception and is someone that Dutchak describes as “a godfather of local tech.” Sutton’s network and “unbiased
feedback” have benefitted companies like Athlete Era, who are also operating in the EdTech sphere. TinyEYE offers online speech therapy services and the majority of its employees work remotely. “Through Co.Labs, I can meet with founders and tell them how it worked out for us. There are a lot of commonalities: trying to scale up, forming a leadership team, market differentiation and creating value. These aren’t specific to EdTech companies. Co.Labs is a critical piece in the cultural shift necessary for tech innovation and moving the needle in Saskatoon,” says Sutton. One of the newest companies at Co.Labs is Planly – a way for users to sync all of their financial accounts on one platform and set milestones. Planly takes an individual’s current financial situation and combines it with their financial goals to provide a bird’s eye view. “Co.Launch is probably the best opportunity in the province for a new tech company. The network and resources they provided helped transform our original idea and turn it into what it is today. Financial planning is an
extremely important, but often overlooked part of our lives. We’ve seen significant growth in the robo-advisor space, which is setting the stage for robo-planners like Planly,” says Justin Halldorson, Planly’s Founder and Director (planly.ca). In other news, Co.Labs recently launched Co.Learn, a five-stream program created to help the next generation build their own start-ups and launch careers. “You can begin by attending events or becoming a volunteer. If you're looking to go deeper, there is a scholarship program, a one-day skills summit or internships at our start-ups,” says Aditi Chadha, Co.Labs’ Youth Program Lead. “The Youth Program aims to engage youth between the ages 15 to 29. With such a wide age range, we've chosen year one to focus on youth 19+ who can take immediate advantage of streams that offer internships and postsecondary scholarships. We’re excited to have soft-launched the program, meaning that 2/5 streams are live on our website, and we’ve begun engaging with various stakeholders and program participants. Our hard launch will take place on February 27th at our Co.mmunity Night where we'll make some exciting announcements regarding the other streams,” adds Chadha. With so much going on at Co.Labs, and ramping up for the spring, Dutchak describes right now as “the calm before the storm.” Co.Labs is Saskatchewan’s first technology incubator and has served as a creative collaboration space for 90 tech start-ups in its first 32 months of operation. Co.Labs is funded by the provincial and federal government through Innovation Saskatchewan and Western Economic Diversification Canada. Co.Labs Innovation Place 229-116 Research Drive, Saskatoon www.co-labs.ca | @colabsyxe
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The 1st WEDNESDAY of every Month 4:30 pm at LB Distillers Connect with the business community and enjoy great food and drinks at Chamber on Tap on the f irst Wednesday of each month. Learn Entrepreneur Insights when our host Nadine Kanigan interviews members of the business community. Wednesday, March 4th
Evan Drisner
NuFab Building Products Evan Drisner is the managing partner of NuFab Building Products, part of the AllFab Group of Companies, a manufacturing, and resale company in the construction industry.
Wednesday, April 1st
Asif Moola
Momentum Clothing In 2001, Asif Moola bought Momentum Clothing, a Saskatoon based retailer that specializes in streetwear, sneakers, outerwear and premium accessories.
Wednesday, May 6th
Jim & Brenda Nowakowski JNE Welding
The Nowakowskis are part owners of JNE Welding, a custom industrial steel fabrication company with two locations in Saskatoon and employ 130-150 skilled people.
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Join the Board. Be in Saskatoon's corner.
CALL FOR NOMINATIONS DEADLINE: 12:00 noon on Thursday, March 16, 2020
For more information contact: chamber@saskatoonchamber.com
To self-nominate find a nomination form at: http://bit.ly/Chamber_Board_Nomination
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SOUTH-EAST
ASIA
13 DAYS
DEPART YXE on October 26, 2020
THAILAND - CAMBODIA - VIETNAM : MEMBERS
$4,399
NON: MEMBERS
Contact Chamber Travel Expert at: Kendra@saskatoonchamber.com for more details
$4,699 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON
MARCH / APRIL 2020 33
HIGHLIGHT REEL
Chamber Happenings
ChristMingle
The Chamber provided a delicious chili lunch and a an amazing cocoa bar for members to warm and celebrate the Christmas season at the Chamber office. The best daytime business mixer of the year!
Chamber on Tap (January)
Andrey Kharitonov of Fire & Flower Cannabis Co. joined Chamber on Tap in January. Chamber on Tap host, Nadine Kanigan and Andrey shared a fun and very informative evening with our packed house at LB Distillers.
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HIGHLIGHT REEL
Chamber Happenings Chamber on Tap (February)
Our Chamber on Tap host Nadine Kanigan had an up-close and personal interview with Alex Fallon from SREDA. A vibrant conversation, full of uplifting anecdotes that made the public at LB Distillers believing that "magic happens".
Bridge2Business
Panelists: Jordan Dutchak from Co.Labs, Brendan King from Vendasta and Patrick Thera from Calian SED, had an interesting discussion that shed an informative light about the technology future in Saskatchewan.
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CHAMBER TRIPS
Egypt - Dubai 2020
The Saskatoon Chamber began offering group travel opportunities in 2017 after a pilot trip to China in April of that same year. The Chamber Trips have become a staple offering for the Saskatoon and region community of adventure travellers. Chamber Trips offer opportunity to advance your business import and export activities, make new connections with fellow travellers and for the Chamber offer a valuable service to the community. Our latest adventure took us to Egypt and the United Arab Emirates where we experienced the history of ancient times and the bustle of a modern world city. Did you know that Dubai has the largest shopping mall in all of the world with a vast 12.1 million square feet? It also houses one of the largest indoor ski hills in all of the world! Did you know that the famous Great Pyramid at Giza was built as a burial place for King Khufu (2589-2566 B.C.) and took more than 20 years to build. It is built from over two million blocks of limestone, each one weighing as much as two and a half elephants. It stands about 460 feet (149 m) high—taller than the Statue of Liberty. The base of the Great Pyramid takes up almost as much space as five football fields.
Interested in expanding your network with a group of adventure-seeking travellers?
Join a Chamber trip!
Next destination is South East Asia
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SEE AD ON PAGE 33 Contact Chamber travel expert at: Kendra@saskatoonchamber.com for details.
CHAMBER TRIPS
INNER: Perschke ONTEST W f the Kings • Lillian PHOTO C o y e ll a over V Balloons
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CHAIR’ S MESSAGE
The Chamber Board welcomes incoming Chair Carla Browne
Although my time as chair will wrap-up at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for May 21, 2020, it will be my privilege to stay on as Past Chair and to help with the transition to a new leader. The incoming Chamber Chair is Carla Browne, owner of Real Canadian Property Management Professionals Inc. Carla has been in the real estate business, both as a broker and an agent, since 1993. She is an entrepreneur that’s passionate about what she does, and she is committed to the Saskatoon Chamber’s flourishing future and to supporting the work done by the Chamber’s staff team.
Of course the Chamber does a lot more than create engaging events. We focused on opportunities to meet with civic, provincial and federal leaders in order to advance the Chamber’s policy pillars relating to competitiveness, efficiency and growth (you can find a copy under the Policy & Advocacy section of the Chamber’s website).
Image: Gina’s Portraits
Our city of Saskatoon is full of emerging and established leaders. Serving as the leader of the Chamber Board over this last term has equipped me with new knowledge and skills that I’ve already put into practise. Leadership skills are essential at all levels of any organization.
With 2019 in the rear-view mirror, it’s time to look toward selecting our 2020/2021 board leadership to carry on the work we’ve started. It’s important to note that Saskatoon Chamber Board Chair Chris Sicotte the process of selecting Chamber Board Members happens long before our be announced at the Chamber’s AGM on AGM takes place in May. The process includes May 21, 2020. the work of a Nomination Committee that As we have done over the last couple of selects candidates with the skillset that the years, the Chamber’s AGM will be held in board is seeking to fill. Self-nominations are conjunction with a member appreciation also welcome; requirements can be found in event. This year, we’ll meet downtown at the Board section, under About Us, on the the Saskatoon Club. The Saskatoon Club The Chamber’s team consists of a blend Chamber’s website. Nominations are open has been a pillar in our business community of age, experience and education that work now and will remain open now until March for decades and a dedicated Chamber together to provide Saskatoon’s business 16th at noon. member for almost 40 years. This event is community with leadership in advocacy, for members only and free to attend – and policy development and amazing events Once nominations cease, there will be the food will be delicious! You can register that provide a place for our members to be an announcement of the active nominees, educated and to connect. followed by a period of campaigning until May at www.saskatoonchamber.com/events. 13th. Ballots are available electronically and It has been my pleasure to serve as the Working together, we’ve enjoyed a will be sent to all membership representatives Chamber Board Chair. I look forward to productive year – reaching new heights and on April 29th. From this point on, until May welcoming Carla Browne as our incoming advancing many files. In 2019 we achieved 13th at noon, member representatives can vote Chair and to seeing you out at our AGM. our highest year-end membership numbers, at their leisure (Terry asked me to remind with growth of almost two percent. We hosted you that each representative is allowed just Sincerely, 59 events throughout the year with overall one vote). The board has fourteen members attendance at an impressive 5,100 people! and six seats are open. Finally, results will Chris Sicotte Chair Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce Working together, we’ve enjoyed a productive
Chris Sicotte, Chair Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce 38 BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON
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year – reaching new heights and advancing many f iles. In 2019 we achieved our highest year-end membership numbers, with growth of almost two percent.
Chris Sicotte is the Chair of the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce and Indigenous Liaison, Commercial Risk Solutions of AON
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chris Sicotte Chair
CANADIAN LIGHT SOURCE INC.
Sandra Ribeiro Executive
KATRINAGERMAN.COM
Katrina German Director
MLT AIKINS LLP
REAL CANADIAN PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PROFESSIONALS INC.
CREATIVE FIRE Jason Aebig 2nd Vice-Chair
KOENIG & ASSOCIATES INC.
SASKATCHEWAN INDIAN INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGIES (SIIT)
NUTRIEN
PCL CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT INC.
MED HACK ENTERPRISES INCORPORATED
SASKATOON AEROCENTRE
Carla Browne 1st Vice-Chair
CeCe Baptiste, Director
Dr. Adam McInnes Director
Todd A. Denzin Director
Graham Snell Director
Peggie Koenig Past Chair
Linda Exner Director
WIEGERS FINANCIAL & BENEFITS
Colton Wiegers Director
Chamber Board of Directors Working for You!
Penny Yeager Director
BUSINESSVOICE SASKATOON
Images: Gina’s Portraits
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