Westman Business | 2023

2023 SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT

Westman OCTOBER 26, 2023

Business

OCTOBER 26, 2023 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN

Westoba Credit Union is marking a significant milestone this year as it cel- ebrates its 60th anniversary of serving the Brandon community and beyond. The credit union, which began its jour- ney in 1963 as the Brandon Consumers Credit Union Society, has witnessed remarkable growth and evolution over the years. “I would say over the last 10 years, there has been a lot of change. When I originally came here from Saskatch- ewan, it was a very new landscape working in Manitoba,” President and CEO Jim Rediger told the Sun. “But it is probably fair to say over the last 10 years, there’s been tremendous change in the financial industry in general, especially over the last five years, as we’ve gone through the pandemic.” Rediger noted the evolution Westoba has undergone during his tenure in- cluding navigating the challenges brought about by the global health cri- sis. He highlighted the remarkable trans- formation in how organizations had to do business over that time. In the case of Westoba, a transition to a hybrid work environment and the upgrade of their digital capabilities allowed them to better serve their members, then and now. “There’s been a lot of change… in terms of the digital capability of our business and members.” Rediger also acknowledged the most recent impact of high inflation and in- terest rates on their members’ finan- cial landscape and how Westoba has adapted to support their members. “It has meant a lot of change for our members in terms of the rates they are being charged on loans, and certainly a big change for our depositors as well,” he said. It is more important than ever for financial institutions to have deep conversations with their members and communities about the impacts they are feeling and talk with them about their financial options. Rediger notes that Westoba strives to talk to all members about their over- all financial health by providing free financial check-ups. By having these conversations with their members, they can have a holistic view and pro- vide solutions that will work long-term for them. Through their Westoba Fi- nancial Solutions team, they can offer financial planning advice for personal or business members, they talk about options for succession planning, re- view insurance options, and more. The 60th anniversary celebration coincided with International Credit Union Day this past October 19. Festiv- ities took place in all Westoba branch- es, with hundreds of Westoba members and community members joining in the celebrations that included activ- ities, games, giveaways, and refresh- ments.

Westoba Credit Union president and CEO Jim Rediger, seen here in his office on 10th Street. (Abiola Odutola/The Brandon Sun)

Westoba renews community ties

Westoba is not just celebrating its history this year, but also looking to- ward the future with a renewed pur- pose, mission statement, vision, and values. These were developed collabo- ratively with input from members, the community, the board of directors, and employees, aiming to shape Westoba’s path for the future. “We recently have unveiled our new purpose, mission, vision, and values… building a new set of guiding princi- ples that will hopefully shape us for the next 60 years,” he said. One of the core aspects of Westoba’s

identity is its commitment to commu- nity support. Rediger pointed to the Westoba Inspired Community Invest- ment Program, through which it will donate $60,000 during their 60th-anni- versary celebrations. “We’ve been on a journey giving back to our communities… providing fund- ing for approximately $200,000 for 35 different projects right across the prov- ince of Manitoba,” he said. Westoba’s dedication to supporting newcomers to Canada has been anoth- er focus for the organization. Rediger shared that they have established the

“New to Canada” program, which pro- vides access to funding for new Cana- dians to purchase homes and set up basic financial accounts. Additionally, Westoba staff have been actively in- volved in providing financial literacy training to help new Canadians adapt to the Canadian financial landscape. “We’ve had a number of our staff… providing their financial expertise to a lot of new Canadians to help them adapt to the Canadian way of life and managing your finances in Canada,”

» » Continued on Page 4

THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 26, 2023

Continued from Page 3

he said. As part of that service, Westoba offers the New to Canada Mortgage Program, which assists newcomers in owning their homes. Rediger emphasized that over the years, millions of dollars have been granted in mortgage financing to new Canadians, making homeowner- ship more accessible for a burgeoning group of customers. Looking ahead, Westoba remains committed to expanding its support for newcomers as the federal govern- ment continues to increase immigra- tion levels. Westoba will continue to assist those looking to immigrate to Manitoba with home financing and fi- nancial literacy. Westoba’s dedication to small busi- nesses in Brandon and the surround- ing areas is a large part of what defines the company. They have a specialized Small Business team that offers lend- ing solutions, investing, and services for established and growing Manitoba businesses. They assist their members in managing their everyday business banking with simple, convenient ac- counts and cash management solu- tions. When asked about Westoba’s re- newed vision, Rediger emphasized the credit union’s commitment to remain-

Westoba Credit Union employees gather for Westoba Family Day. (Submitted)

ing a strong presence in the communi- ties they serve. He sees the continued evolution of digital products and ser- vices, but the need for that personal touch of branch banking. He states that their longstanding relationships with members are built to last a life- time as Westoba diligently supports and guides members toward financial stability.

That evolution includes building on digital services that Westoba currently offers. Their Virtual Services team can assist members in completing a loan or mortgage, credit card applications, and provide a thorough review of your financial fitness. “We are offering our communities ways to bank that is con- venient and accessible to them,” said Rediger.

As it celebrates its 60th anniversa- ry, Westoba Credit Union is poised to continue making a positive impact for decades to come, with innovation, community support, and a focus on the future. » The Brandon Sun

Sensus Chartered Professional Accountants Ltd. has grown and undergone many changes over the past 40 years. Since its beginning in 1979, our Firm has opened new locations, amalgamated with other Firms, changed our name and expanded our services to become the strong Firm we are today. Sensus Chartered Professional Accountants Ltd. has grown and undergone many changes over the past 40 years. Since its beginning in 1979, our Firm has opened new locations, amalgamated with other Firms, changed our name and expanded our services to become the strong Firm we are today. Sensus Chartered Professional Accountants Ltd. has grown and undergone many changes over the past 40 years. Since its beginning in 1979, our Firm has opened new locations, amalgamated with other Firms, changed our name and expanded our services to become the strong Firm we are today.

Sensus Chartered Professional Accountants Ltd. has grown and undergone many changes over the past 40 + years. Since its begining in 1979, our Firm has opened new locations, amalgamated with other Firms, changed our name and expanded our services to become the strong Firm we are today. We would like to thank our clientele for their patronage over the past 4 0+ years who have trusted us and allowed us to provide our professional services. We attribute our success to all of our clients . Audra Nychuk, CPA, CA and Harold Reid, CPA, CA would like to welcome their NEW PARTNERS to the Firm. Today we are excited to announce another milestone in our history. Sensus Chartered Professional Accountants Ltd. has grown and undergone many changes over the past 40 + years. Since its begining in 1979, our Firm has opened new locations, amalgamated with other Firms, changed our name and expanded our services to become the strong Firm we are today. We would like to thank our clientele for their patronage over the past 4 0+ years who have trusted us and allowed us to provide our professional services. We attribute our success to all of our clients . Sensus Chartered Professional Accountants Ltd. has grown and undergone many changes over the past 40 + years. Since its begining in 1979, our Firm has opened new locations, amalgamated with other Firms, changed our name and expanded our services to become the strong Firm we are today. We would like to thank our clientele for their patronage over the past 4 0+ years who have trusted us and allowed us to provide our professional services. We attribute our success to all of our clients Audra Nychuk, CPA, CA and Harold Reid, CPA, CA would like to welcome their NEW PARTNERS to the Firm. Today we are excited to announce another milestone in our history. Today we are excited to announce another milestone in our history. Audra Nychuk, CPA, CA and Harold Reid, CPA, CA would like to welcome their NEW PARTNERS

Their dedication and hard work, along with their commitment to excellence, has allowed them to progress to this next step in their careers. Each of these new partners brings a unique set of experiences, perspectives and ideas to help shape our Firm for the future. Please join us in congratulating Tiffany, Ian, Brett, and Kyle on this accomplishment. Their dedication and hard work, along with their commitment to excellence, has allowed them to progress to this next step in their careers. Each of these new partners brings a unique set of experiences, perspectives and ideas to help shape our Firm for the future. Please join us in congratulating Tiffany, Ian, Brett, and Kyle on this accomplishment. Their dedication and hard work, along with their commitment to excellence, has allowed them to progress to this next step in their careers. Each of these new partners brings a unique set of experiences, perspectives and ideas to help shape our Firm for the future. Please join us in congratulating Tiffany, Ian, Brett, and Kyle on this accomplishment.

Harold Reid, CPA, CA

Tiffany Bodnariuk, CPA, CA Ian McMullan, CPA, CA

Audra Nychuk, CPA, CA Audra Nychuk, CPA, CA

Harold Reid, CPA, CA

Tiffany Bodnariuk, CPA, CA Ian McMullan, CPA, CA Tiffany Bodnariuk, CPA, CA Ian McMullan, CPA, CA

Harold Reid, CPA, CA

Audra Nychuk, CPA, CA

We would like to thank our clientele for their patronage over the past 40 years who have trusted us and allowed us to provide our professional services. We attribute our success to all of our clients. We would like to thank our clientele for their patronage over the past 40 years who have trusted us and allowed us to provide our professional services. We attribute our success to all of our clients. We would like to thank our clientele for their patronage over the past 40 years who have trusted us and allowed us to provide our professional services. We attribute our success to all of our clients. We will continue to provide the following services to our clients in the Westman area and eastern Saskatchewan. These services include: • Personal tax planning & preparation • Municipal auditing • Payroll services • Incorporating your farm or business • Bookkeeping services • Notice to reader & review engagement preparation • Estate tax planning • Auditing of public sector boards • Auditing of not-for-profit organizations • Farm and business succession planning • Corporate tax planning & preparation • Retirement & financial planning We will continue to provide the following services to our clients in the Westman area and eastern Saskatchewan. These services include: • Personal tax planning & preparation • Municipal auditing • Payroll services • Incorporating your farm or business • Bookkeeping services • Notice to reader & review engagement preparation • Estate tax planning • Auditing of public sector boards We will continue to provide the following services to our clients in the Westman area and eastern Saskatchewan. These services include: • Personal tax planning & preparation • Municipal auditing • Payroll services • Incorporating your farm or business • Bookkeeping services • Notice to reader & review engagement preparation • Estate tax planning • Auditing of public sector boards

We will continue to provide the following services to our clients in the Westman area and eastern Saskatchewan. These services include: We will continue to provide the following services to our clients in the Westman area and eastern Saskatchewan. These services include: We will continue to provide the following services to our clients in the Westman area and eastern Saskatchewan. These services include: We will continue to provide the following services to our clients in the Westman and Eastern Saskatchewan areas. These services include: • Personal tax planning and preparation • Municipal auditing • Auditing of not-for-profit organizations • Farm and business succession planning • Corporate tax planning & preparation • Retirement & financial planning • Auditing of not-for-profit organizations • Farm and business succession planning • Corporate tax planning & preparation • Retirement & financial planning

Audra Nychuk, CPA, CA Harold Reid, CPA, CA Audra Nychuk, CPA, CA Harold Reid, CPA, CA Audra Nychuk, CPA, CA Harold Reid, CPA, CA

• Notice to reader and review engagement preparation Estate tax planning • Auditing of not-for-profit organizations • Farm and business succession planning • Retirement and financial planning YORKTON, SK 15 – 1st Avenue N 306-782-4320 • Auditing of not-for-profit organizations • Farm and business succession planning • Retirement and financial planning • Auditing of not-for-profit organizations • Farm and business succession planning • Retirement and financial planning • Auditing of not-for-profit organizations • Farm and business succession plannin • Retirement and financial planning • Estate tax planning Brett Fordyce, CPA, CGA • Compilation and review engagement preparation Kyle Paul, CPA, CA • Notice to reader and review engagement preparation Estate tax planning Brett Fordyce, CPA, CGA YORKTON, SK 15 – 1st Avenue N 306-782-4320 Kyle Paul, CPA, CA • Notice to reader and review engagement preparation Estate tax planning Brett Fordyce, CPA, CGA Kyle Paul, CPA, CA YORKTON, SK 15 – 1st Avenue N 306-782-4320

• Personal tax planning and preparation • Municipal auditing • Payroll services • Incorporating your farm or business • Bookkeeping services • Auditing of public sector boards SHOAL LAKE, MB 426 Station Road 204-759-2240 BRANDON, MB 929 – 24th Street 204-727-5577 • Personal tax planning and preparation • Municipal auditing • Payroll services • Incorporating your farm or business • Bookkeeping services • Auditing of public sector boards SHOAL LAKE, MB 426 Station Road 204-759-2240 BRANDON, MB 929 – 24th Street 204-727-5577 • Personal tax planning and preparation • Municipal auditing • Payroll services • Incorporating your farm or business • Bookkeeping services • Auditing of public sector boards SHOAL LAKE, MB 426 Station Road 204-759-2240 BRANDON, MB 929 – 24th Street 204-727-5577 • Bookkeeping services • Auditing of public sector boards

RUSSELL, MB 209 Main Street N 204-773-2106 RUSSELL, MB 209 Main Street N 204-773-2106

VIRDEN, MB 275 Nelson Street W 204-748-3135

RUSSELL, MB 209 Main Street N 204-773-2106

VIRDEN, MB 275 Nelson Street W 204-748-3135 VIRDEN, MB 275 Nelson Street W 204-748-3135

Visit our website www.sensuscpa.ca • Please contact any of our locations for a consultation or email us at sensusrsl@sensuscpa.ca Visit our website www.sensuscpa.ca • Please contact any of our locations for a consultation or email us at sensusrsl@sensuscpa.ca Visit our website www.sensuscpa.ca • Please contact any of our locations for a consultation or email us at sensusrsl@sensuscpa.ca

Tiffany Bodnariuk, CPA, CA Tiffany Bodnariuk, CPA, CA

Ian McMullan, CPA, CA Ian McMullan, CPA, CA Ian McMullan, CPA, CA

Tiffany Bodnariuk, CPA, CA

RUSSELL, MB 209 Main Street N 204-773-2106 204-773-2106

SHOAL LAKE, MB 426 Station Road 204-759-2240

BRANDON MB 929 - 24th Street 204-727-5577

VIRDEN, MB 275 Nelson St. W 204-748-3135

YORKTON, SK 15 - 1st Avenue N 306-782-4320

SHOAL LAKE, MB 426 Station Road 204-759-2240

BRANDON MB 929 - 24th Street 204-727-5577

VIRDEN, MB 275 Nelson St. W 204-748-3135

ROBLIN, MB 128-3rd Avenue 204-937-4668

YORKTON, SK 15 - 1st Avenue N 306-782-4320 YORKTON, SK 15 - 1st Avenue N 306-782-4320

RUSSELL, MB 209 Main Street N 204-773-2106 RUSSELL, MB 209 Main Street N 204-773-2106

SHOAL LAKE, MB 426 Station Road 204-759-2240 SHOAL LAKE, MB 426 Station Road 204-759-2240

BRANDON MB 929 - 24th Street 204-727-5577 BRANDON MB 929 - 24th Street 204-727-5577

VIRDEN, MB 275 Nelson St. W 204-748-3135 VIRDEN, MB 275 Nelson St. W 204-748-3135

YORKTON, SK 15 - 1st Avenue N 306-782-4320

Visit our website www.sensuscpa.ca Please contact any of our locations for a consultation or email us at brandon@sensuscpa.ca Visit our website www.sensuscpa.ca Please contact any of our locations for a consultation or email us at brandon@sensuscpa.ca Visit our website Please contact any of our locations for a consultation or email us at brandon@sensuscpa.ca Visit our website www.sensuscpa.ca Please contact any of our locations for a consultation or email us at brandon@sensuscpa.ca

Brett Fordyce, CPA, CGA Brett Fordyce, CPA, CGA

Kyle Paul, CPA, CA Kyle Paul, CPA, CA

Brett Fordyce, CPA, CGA

Kyle Paul, CPA, CA

OCTOBER 26, 2023 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN

Why small business is big in Canada

Small business is the backbone of the Canadian economy. These enterprises, which include many local shops and contractors, drive innovation, create jobs and foster economic growth. In recog- nition of BDC Small Business Week, taking place from October 15 to 21, here are seven facts highlighting the importance of Canadian small businesses: 1. About 98 per cent of all business- es in Canada have fewer than 100 employees, making small busi- nesses a dominant force in the entrepreneurial landscape. 2. More than 80 per cent of the private sector workforce is employed by small and medi- um-sized enterprises (SMEs), demonstrating the critical role of small businesses in job creation and employment opportunities. 3. Small businesses in Canada con- tribute about 53 per cent to the country’s GDP, underscoring their substantial economic im- pact.

4. Small businesses accounted for about 43 per cent of all goods and services exported by Canadi- an businesses, showcasing their contribution to international trade. 5. Small businesses are active in various sectors, with the highest concentration in professional, scientific and technical services, retail trade and construction. 6. Small businesses play a vital role in rural communities, account- ing for 26.5 per cent of total em- ployment in rural areas. 7. Small businesses are often the breeding ground for innovation, with more than 41 per cent of all private sector investments in re- search and development being made by SMEs. This year, you can observe BDC Small Business Week by supporting the small and medium-sized busi- nesses iyour community. Visit bdc. ca for more information.

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THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 26, 2023

Brandon’s economic growth, outlook remain strong

BY ABIOLA ODUTOLA

cities in Canada and demonstrates the opportunities available for individuals, families, and businesses to grow and succeed.” Cathcart underlined the historical strength of Brandon’s labour force, which he said has been relatively “tight”, hovering around five per cent or less unemployment for over two decades. He added that the workforce participation rate also remains strong at 68.3 per cent vs. the long-term Man- itoba average of 65.6 per cent. The construction sector in particu- lar, which has been a focus of Pugh’s ef- forts, has been a major contributor to Brandon’s economic growth. As larger construction jobs involve more trades, she explained that this in- creases the cash flow and jobs that are available in Brandon, adding that as cash flow increases, it flows out to the economy through consumer consump- tion. Pugh also highlighted the expected boost in tourism dollars as people start travelling again. “With people being back into their routines, we will start to see an in- crease in the tourism of Brandon through hockey tournaments, Ag Days, etc., which benefits our local hotels, restaurants, and shopping. Continuing to shop local

Despite facing pressing challenges, experts say the economic outlook of Brandon — a city known for its resil- ience, and agricultural heritage — re- mains positive. “The current economic outlook for Brandon remains strong. The higher interest rates and inflation have put a strain on business; however, they are surviving,” Brandon Chamber of Com- merce president Jaime Pugh told the Sun. “From our discussions with many of our members, they have been able to fill their job positions, and the strain on the lack of skilled employees has decreased slightly. Businesses are con- tinuing to sell, which shows even with the current interest rates our entrepre- neurial spirit is still thriving.” But what makes the city remains strong? City of Brandon’s Economic Development director Gerald Cathcart attributed its success to its remarkable population growth and the historic strength of the labour force. “The City of Brandon’s population in the 2021 Census was 51,313, just over a five per cent increase from the 2016 Census,” he said. “Brandon’s growth has kept pace with the fastest-growing

The city of Brandon seen from the air over Rideau Park. (Tim Smith/The Brandon Sun)

and support our local businesses al- lows for Brandon to continue to flour- ish,” she said. Pugh explained that the planned Prairie Innovation Center will be ben- eficial to Brandon in so many ways. It will not only boost local trades, but also help current and future students fill the jobs in the city’s Agriculture industry. As mentioned in the Chamber lead- er’s debate, she said the provincial gov- ernment has agreed to work with ACC to get the project off the ground. “The expansion to the Brandon Re- gional Health Centre has created rev- enue to our construction groups. The addition to Maryland School and the building of two future schools will also help the construction indus- try which will in turn put money

back into our other areas through con- sumer spending,” she added. Cathcart said that the city’s key eco- nomic drivers include agriculture and manufacturing. “Traditionally agriculture has and continues to be a major economic driv- er,” he said. “Manufacturing remains Brandon’s largest economic driver, em- ploying 11 per cent of our labour force. Food processing, chemical production, and metal fabrication are the larg- est of the sectors that drive Brandon’s growth.”

A group look out over the downtown Brandon skyline from Hanbury Hill on a hot summer evening (Tim Smith/The Brandon Sun)

OCTOBER 26, 2023 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN The projected economic growth is not limited to Brandon. The Conference Board of Canada anticipates a 2.5 per cent growth in Manitoba’s economy this year following a robust 4.2 per cent increase in 2022.

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ernment to get an action plan in place that will fix this issue. Water has also caused some issues,” she said. “We need to be able to supply water to new businesses for them to come to Bran- don. This is always a topic with the city to ensure that we are planning to be ahead of the game when opening Bran- don up to new business.” Cathcart also listed pandemic, in- flation as parts of the challenges faced by the business community in recent times. He said that numerous businesses in Brandon continue to grapple with the impact of the pandemic on their oper- ations, with the majority of them yet to fully return to their pre-pandemic levels. “Business resiliency is critical to managing through a crisis,” he said. “The pandemic, inflation, and even changes in labour market expectation around the nature of work have all come to bear to varying degrees on the business community.” As the city embraces its population growth and remains resilient in the face of economic challenges, these experts emphasized that Brandon is poised to maintain its status as a thriv- ing economic hub. » The Brandon Sun

However, in contrast to Brandon, Conference Board of Canada senior economist Richard Forbes suggested that the agricultural sector may not be the dominant force in the provincial economy. He noted that the Manitoba’s robust economic performance in 2022 reflected its resilience after enduring the severe impacts of the 2021 drought and the subsequent recovery in 2022. Forbes clarified that although there are some drought concerns in the Prai- rie region this year, with a focus on southern Saskatchewan and Alberta, there are promising signs for a strong crop yield in Manitoba. “The data in- dicates it will be a good year for the ag sector,” he said. “ Prices are still really, really high and there is good production expected from that industry.” Like other cities, not all is smooth sailing for Brandon. Pugh acknowl- edged challenges with hydro and water supply, adding that Manitoba Hydro has been the topic of conversation for the past few years as lack of capacity has prevented Brandon from being able to attract some larger businesses. “We have been working with the gov-

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THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 26, 2023

Doing it locally, doing it better. Corral Communications general manager BJ Hersak stands in front of the Bell MTS logo at 2741 Victoria Ave. in Brandon, one of the company’s five locations in western Manitoba. (Matt Goerzen/The Brandon Sun)

Shopping online has been a growing market trend for years, and throughout the recent pandemic that trend accel- erated. But those who shop online will know how impersonal and sometimes unhelpful that experience can be. While experiences vary, of course, it’s not stretching the truth to say that you take a chance when you purchase items online. Many large online retail companies have poor customer service, and more often than not it’s difficult to find “live” personnel who can answer your ques- tions in a timely fashion. And if you have a problem with your purchase, you might just be on your own, partic- ularly with the Amazon’s of the world. It’s one of the reasons that local com- panies like Corral Communications emphasize the importance of not only having a physical and accessible pres- ence around western Manitoba, but they also dedicate themselves to get- ting to know their customers, and as a result, they get to know what they need. While it may feel ironic for a retail

business that specializes in tech to em- phasize the shop local tag line, Corral Communications general manager BJ Hersak says that personal touch means everything. “I’ll tell you right now we’re going to do it better,” Hersak says. “We’re going to do it better than ordering it online. We’re going to make sure that you have everything you need. And when you leave the store, we’re going to make sure that your new device or new ac- cessory is connected and working. We make sure that you’ve got every- thing you need at the best price with the best value and the best capabilities. And we do it better than anybody else.” Corral Communications is all about technology. Whether you’re looking for a new smartphone or high-speed inter- net, their knowledgeable and experi- enced staff will be there to education, explain and offer the help you need to make the best use of the latest tech- nology, for both personal and business use. Corral Communications is one of the

largest licensed providers for BellMTS in the province, with five locations in western Manitoba, including two retail stores in Brandon, and three others in Russell, Virden and Neepawa. And while you may not recognize Corral Communications from the look of the stores themselves – BellMTS and Bell mobility carry a very strong visu- al brand – that’s by design. Hersak says he wants his customers to know that whatever they buy from Corral Com- munications, they can walk into any other location in another city or prov- ince, and have the same experience as they would in a local store. That said, the value of being local means that all 15 company staff live in the communities that they work, and customers get to know who they’re dealing with on a far more personal lev- el. As a result, you’ll know it’s a Corral Communications store by the quality of your experience.

We’re the local

guys, we’re here, we’re part of the community. And I think that that’s the difference ”

– BJ HERSAK GENERAL MANAGER CORRAL COMMUNICATIONS

» » Continued on Page 10

WE ARE WITH YOU

Corral Communications is all about technology. We are Western Manitoba’s locally owned and operated Bell MTS dealer. Whether you’re looking for a new smartphone or high-speed internet we’re here to help. With our incredibly knowledgeable and experienced staff we will educate, explain and empower you to make the best use of the latest technology, whether its for personal or business use.

VISIT US AT:

CORRAL CENTRE Unit 4 825-18th St N • Brandon, MB Phone: 204.571.4070

VICTORIA AVENUE 1-2741 Victoria Avenue • Brandon, MB Phone: 204.728.2355

VIRDEN 320 King St. East • Virden, MB Phone: 204.851.6800

RUSSELL 161 Main Street North • Russell, MB Phone: 204.773.2330

NEEPAWA 341 Mountain Ave. • Neepawa, MB Phone: 204.476.3636

THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 26, 2023

spective, the implements manufactur- ers, really all entities of agriculture are digging deep into technology. “And in order to provide connectivity to a combine or any type of implement – seeders, augers, grain bins – that technology is all connected through wireless networks. And conveniently, that’s what we do.” The Corral Communications team can work and consult with either im- plement dealers or the farmers them- selves to begin to connect their equip- ment, and tailor it to their operations. “I’m happy for every opportunity to walk in the door and every customer, whether they’re a BellMTS customer, or one of the other ones, they come in the door. It gives us an opportunity a to help, which is key number one – we’re here for you.” Corral Communications provides customers with leading tech products through its working partnership with BellMTS, including wireless products, internet packages, Bell MTS Fibe TV, and phone services. “It’s one of the things that BellMTS is good at doing, certainly in western Manitoba. There’s no other competitor that delivers all four lines of communi- cation to the home and business.” Whether you walk in the door for ser- vice support, or you’re looking to get some general questions answered by a human being, either face to face or even over the phone, Corral Communi- cations staff are going to pay attention to your needs. “I think that’s key you know,” Hersak says. “We take the time to listen and truly understand.” » The Brandon Sun

Continued from Page 8

“We’re the local guys, we’re here, we’re part of the community. And I think that that’s the difference,” Her- sak said. “I care who my customers are, I care where they go, I want to make sure no matter where they choose to, you know, purchase their services, that they know that we’re always going to be here to be able to help and assist.” And this includes being an active participant of the community, not just living within it. Hersak himself has served on multiple local boards, in- cluding the Brandon and District Unit- ed Way and Westman Dreams for Kids – something that they encourage their team members to do as well, to “get out there and give back.” For him, it’s not just giving money to organizations, but rather lending your time back to the community that helps support the business. “What it says about the company is that the company is committed to the community that keeps it going. It’s an incredibly important part of who we are.” Those social ties also help them learn more about their customers’ needs. The farming industry for example – in day-to-day contact with the produc- ers who need technology in their daily lives, Hersak says he has a much bet- ter understanding of their day to day needs. “I’ve been selling phones to farmers for so long, I could walk you through a harvest,” Hersak says, laughing. “But much depends on what that farmer wants to invest in technology for that operation. From an operational per-

Corral Communications general manager BJ Hersak stands in the center of the Bell MTS store at 2741 Victoria Ave. in Brandon, one of the company’s five locations in western Manitoba. (Matt Goerzen/The Brandon Sun)

Choose local for your reno project

Do you value supporting your local economy and want to prioritize local busi- nesses when renovating your home? Check out these tips. 1. Buy locally-made products. Ask your suppliers where your desired materials originate. Learn about wood species that grow in your region or find out how to acquire stone extracted from a nearby quarry. If you’re buying new tools, choose locally-made options. 2. Purchase supplies from local businesses. Whether you’re in the market for paint or a shower enclosure, or even look-

ing to rent tools, shop at independent hardware stores or regionally owned chains rather than big box giants. 3. Hire professionals from your region. From door and window installation to interior design, think local. You’re sure to find professionals in your area providing services in fencing, custom cabinetry, electrical work and more. Choose companies that use local prod- ucts. When you support local business- es with your renovation project, you do more than invest in your local econo- my. You get sustainable products made under good working conditions and with minimal environmental impact.

To find Canadian-made building materials, look for the “Well Made Here” logo or visit ici-here.ca.

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THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 26, 2023

I think this season, more

than any other, we’re focusing on trying to do some new things. ” – JARED McKENZIE DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & TICKETING KEYSTONE CENTRE

Keystone enhancing the community experience

members and organizations. Several ti- pis, each with a unique teaching, have been erected at locations across Bran- don, including the Keystone Centre. Another way is through art. The centre recently unveiled a new mural above its main entrance depicting the Anishinaabe creation story, painted by Rolling River First Nation artist Jeannie Whitebird, who lives in Selkirk, Man., and her collaborator, international mu- ralist Charlie Johnston. A plaque will soon join the artwork, which is titled “Bimaadiziwin,” the Anishinaabemow- in term for “the journey.” The mural was just one of the many highlights at the Keystone Centre this summer. On top of its more familiar of- ferings, such as the Manitoba Summer Fair and Food Truck Warz, the Keystone Centre also hosted a Stanley Cup visit and, for the first time ever, the World Clydesdale Show. With summer drifting into fall, the Keystone Centre is now gearing up for its busiest season, chock-full of ice sports and winter fairs. Some notable events on the horizon are the Stars on Ice Holiday Tour (Dec. 17), Skid Row Swift Current Broncos forward Braeden Lewis of Virden skates across the Brandon Wheat Kings zone with the puck with defenders Andrei Maliavan and Carter Klippenstein in hot pursuit during Western Hockey League action at the Keystone Centre’s Westoba Place on September 30, 2023. (Perry Bergson/The Brandon Sun)

BY SYDNEY HILDEBRANDT

Anyone who frequents the Keystone Centre in Brandon knows how popular the venue is for hockey games and a swath of agricultural shows. And while those events are the ven- ue’s bread and butter, the Keystone Centre wants to diversify its offerings to keep up with Brandon’s growing and evolving population. “This is a community centre for the entire community. If you don’t fit into that agricultural demographic, or you’re not a diehard hockey fan, we are still thinking about ways to bring you entertainment,” says Jared McKenzie, director of marketing and ticketing at the Keystone Centre. “There are naturally some commu- nities that go underrepresented when we bring in concerts and any sort of other show. We’re really looking at ways to engage with those communities and bring acts to the centre that would be of interest to them.” One way the venue is expanding representation across the facility is through the Tipi Legacy Tour project, a partnership between community

A mural entitled “Bimaadiziwin,” the Anishinaabemowin term for The Journey, was painted last week above the main doorway at the Keystone Centre (Geena Mortfield/The Brandon Sun)

» » Continued on Page 14

THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 26, 2023

Continued from Page 12

and Buckcherry: The Gang’s All Here Tour (March 17, 2024), as well as local favourites Manitoba Ag Ex, Royal Man- itoba Winter Fair, and Manitoba Ag Days in 2024. “I think this season, more than any other, we’re really focusing on trying to do some new things, [but] some of them aren’t announced yet,” McKenzie said. Although the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic has passed, and the Key- stone Centre’s events schedule is fuller than it was a couple years ago, McK- enzie says it’s still unclear whether the venue has fully bounced back from the effects of the health crisis, or if it has simply reached a “new baseline norm,” as it has struggled to consistent- ly match pre-pandemic attendance numbers at some events. “Our hope is certainly that recovery is still ongoing and more people are going to be getting out, on their time- line of course. People are only going to come out when they’re comfortable coming out to events,” he said. But the venue isn’t deterred, with plans to upgrade the facility and grounds underway in hopes of boost- ing the experience of all who engage with the centre. The outdoor stage, for example, is widely underused, but McKenzie hopes adding a new weath- er-friendly stage cover will bring more events outside, onto the grounds. “Not a lot of people know about the

outdoor stage, it’s been mostly out of use for at least the last decade. Here and there we’ll have events outside that use it for … traditional dancing, or a small music [performance], or some sort of award presentation. But it hasn’t really been used.” Another exciting change coming to the Keystone Centre is brand-new seats equipped with cupholders in Westoba Place, to be installed by this time next year. The current seats were pulled from the former Winnipeg Are- na. McKenzie also says the centre is ex- ploring the possibility of commercial- ized developments on the grounds and a study is already underway; however, he couldn’t provide any further details. While many “visual changes” are ex- pected across the Keystone Centre and Brothers Aiden and David Song feed goats at the petting zoo on Tuesday morning during the Royal Manitoba Winter Fair at The Keystone Centre. (Tim Smith/The Brandon Sun)

Kaitlyn Weaver and Andrew Poje perform during the Stars On Ice 2022 Holiday Tour stop at Westoba Place in Brandon. (Tim Smith/The Brandon Sun)

grounds, McKenzie says the centre is as focused on making adjustments be- hind the scenes to improve things like customer service. With the previously announced $15.9-million, five-year operating agreement between the City of Bran- don and the provincial government, along with a $3-million grant from the province, McKenzie says there are more opportunities to build on the venue’s capital projects like these. “Any time that we have stable and

predictable funding, it makes oper- ating the centre … so much easier. Knowing what to expect, when to ex- pect it, helps us plan for what types of new events we can go after, what types of improvements to the facilities we can undertake, and to what degree we can undertake them.” For more information about the Key- stone Centre and its events calendar, visit keystonecentre.com. — with files from The Brandon Sun

Benefits of a go-to-market (GTM) strategy for your small business

• Identify your target market. Who are you trying to reach with your products or services? What are their pain points, and what are the solu- tions? • Develop a marketing and sales strategy. How will you reach your target market and generate leads? How will you close sales? • Create a budget. How much mon- ey will you need to implement your strategy? • Get feedback. Get feedback from your team, customers and oth- er stakeholders. This will help you identify potential weaknesses and make improvements. • Measure your results. How will you measure the success of your GTM strategy? Track your results so you can see what’s working and what’s not.

If you’re launching a new product or service, implementing a go-to-market (GTM) strategy can be the difference between thriving and barely staying afloat. A well-crafted GTM strategy can improve brand awareness and in- crease your sales. It can also improve the efficiency of your roll-out and re- duce overall costs, resulting in higher profits. How to create a GTM strategy Your GTM strategy outlines your company’s goals, budget, target mar- ket and approach to marketing and sales. Take the following steps to create an effective GTM strategy: • Define your goals. What do you want to achieve with your new product? Do you want to increase sales, improve brand awareness or something else?

BDC Small Business Week takes place from October 15 to 21, an excellent oc- casion to learn more about developing a GTM strategy to make your small business sustainable and successful.

• Be flexible. The market is constant- ly changing, so it’s important to be flexible. Be willing to adjust your plans as needed.

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THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 26, 2023

Sunrise supports rural Westman with knowledge and understanding

Our Sunrise lenders, Bevan Kliever, Ashely Rickard, Mandy Chartrand and Danielle Wood from the Melita branch visited our member, A1 Agronomy. (Submitted)

a range of business accounts, lines of credit, term loans, MasterCard, com- mercial mortgages, and commercial leasing services tailored to those spe- cific needs,” she says. Sunrise Credit Union also offers con- solidation loans and lines of credit. “We are flexible,” says Johnas. “A great example is helping clients get pre-approval so the finances are ready to go when they are.” Sunrise is also there for those with the entrepreneurial spirit. “When rural Manitobans have a busi- ness idea, we are here to help make it a reality! Startups need advice, and Sun- rise is great at sharing knowledge with reliable information and a deep un- derstanding of industry and company needs,” she says. “Our team will stand by you and sup- port you every step of the way from opening the business to future investments and succession planning.” To deliver those quality services, Sun-

BY WENDY KING

Westman’s regional communities are a great place to grow. Many of the peo- ple who live and work here have deep, deep roots in their communities and newcomers quickly set down new ones. To keep their communities growing and thriving, these Manitobans want and need quality financial services de- livered by a committed local provider so that what’s invested here, stays here - and what stays here, grows here. With 75 years of legacy behind it, Sun- rise Credit Union is also growing with $1.8 billion in assets and 19 branches serving approximately 34,000 members in communities across the region. Commitment to those communities is something that Sunrise Credit Union takes very seriously. “Keeping 80 per cent of every dollar spent in our community contributes to the success of each of our businesses and to the community as a whole,” says Tayona Johnas, VP of wealth and mar-

Keeping 80 per cent of every dollar spent in our community

contributes to the success of each of our businesses and to the community as a whol e. ” – TAYONA JOHNAS VP OF WEALTH AND MARKETING SUNRISE CREDIT UNION

keting at Sunrise Credit Union (SCU). “It’s incredibly valuable that those local investments multiply within each local economy of the 19 communi- ties served by a Sunrise Credit Union branch.”

She says that Sunrise Credit Union is poised to help local businesses in a va- riety of ways. “We offer flexible financing to small and large businesses to meet whatever needs they may have. We provide wide

OCTOBER 26, 2023 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN

rise maintains high standards for staff- ing and training. Staff are well-sup- ported in their careers and ongoing professional development. “We really want our employees to fully develop their professional lives with the training and education that gives them the confidence to provide our customers with exemplary ser- vice,” says Johnas. “As a member of Sunrise Credit Union, you are an owner and part of the Sunrise family. This brings security and confidence to our members know- ing Sunrise staff have the members’ best interests at heart. Serving mem- bers as we would like to be served is our ‘golden rule.’” Sunrise Credit Union brings some 220 jobs — a significant number — to the communities it serves. Secure, quality employment is an important contributor to community well-being. “Because we are a decentralized organization, staff members at Sun- rise are often able to advance their career within their own community. This helps sustain community growth and stability with a great employment within reach,” she says. Johnas says that this gives rural Man- itobans the opportunity to work in the corporate world within their own com- munities. Sunrise not only supports the local economy with quality employment - SCU also directly supports local busi- nesses.

“We deliberately choose local busi- nesses knowing they provide the top- notch products and services SCU needs to operate on a day-to-day ba- sis,” she says. “And we happily partner with local businesses who also support the com- munity with their fundraising efforts. It’s truly rewarding to give back to our local communities and organizations.” When there is a need in the commu- nity, there is tremendous value in hav- ing financial problem solvers who are also your neighbours. “Knowing our members helps us pro- vide personalized service. Being part of the community brings a deeper under- standing of people and local economic dynamics,” says Johnas. “We want to help you reach your fi- nancial goals both personally, and pro- fessionally.” Tayona Johnas says Sunrise Credit Union is proud to be a key part of the success of the people and businesses in Westman’s regional communities. “Financial problem solvers are in each community served by Sunrise, and there is a bigger team behind the local team contributing to great solu- tions. That’s a win-win for everyone!” Whatever your financial needs are in Manitoba’s Westman region, you can find Sunrise Credit Union at sunrisecu. mb.ca » The Brandon Sun

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Sunrise Branch Manager Derian Penziwol in Boissevain congratulates Pringles Sports Excellence on their 60th Anniversary. (Submitted)

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