The Weyburn Chamber celebrated small business week in Canada from October 16 – 22^nd. This week is set aside annually to not only focus on what small business means to our economy but also a simple opportunity to say thank you for your hard work and dedication to the area. During the week we held a Handshake & Hashbrown Breakfast for our members with our partners at Community Futures Sunrise. We held an information session with an Employment Consultant with the Government of Saskatchewan to discuss the changes that have happened with Employment Standards. The topic was very relevant to all employers and employees of our Chamber.

Earlier in November, the Weyburn Chamber recognized excellence in agriculture with our annual Ag Appreciation Night. Once again, this night was a huge success with great networking opportunities. The Chamber was honoured to present Alan & Yvonne Whitrow of Southampton Farms from Yellow Grass with the Golden Sheaf Award.

Chamber Bucks is back! We are encouraging residents of Weyburn to spend their money at our Chamber Members from October 17 – November 17^th. One winner will then receive $1,000 Chamber Bucks to spend at participating businesses, and the Chamber reimburse the Chamber dollars to the retailers. We hope, as a Chamber, this will not only create a buzz around the area but will also aid in Christmas shopping locally. To be part of the Chamber Bucks campaign, please reach out to the Chamber office at 306-842-4738. It’s not too late to join.

The Weyburn Chamber applauds the Government of Saskatchewan on several topics. The first one that directly affects Weyburn is the reopening of the Court of King’s Bench Judicial Centre and Registry Office in Weyburn Courthouse earlier this month. This will improve efficiency access to justice and strengthen the Court’s ability to serve our area. The other is the introduction of The Saskatchewan First Act, which looks to strengthen the province’s autonomy and exclusive jurisdiction over its natural resources.

Your Chamber of Commerce is here to help you. If you are a business looking for employees reach out to us and let us know the positions, you are looking to fill. We have been working with the Southeast Newcomers Services to help fill the labour shortages that so many of you are facing. We’re always here to strengthen our business community. Should you require any assistance, please feel free to stop by the office at 11 3^rd St. NE, Weyburn or call us at 306-842-4738.

Fall is upon us, and the harvest season is coming to a close. With some harvest still going on, I do want to remind everyone that nominations for the Golden Sheaf Award are due on Friday, October 14th. We are looking forward to celebrating a successful harvest with our Annual Ag Appreciation Night on Thursday, November 1st. The annual banquet recognizes the importance of agriculture in our local economy, celebrating the hard work and dedication of local producers and ranchers. To get your tickets to the event, contact our office.

The week of October 16 – 22 is Small Business Week. Be sure to watch the Weyburn Chamber’s Facebook page for different ways that you can help small businesses thrive and continue to grow. On October 22th we want to celebrate and network with our small businesses over breakfast. Community Future Sunrise is bringing in an Employment Consultant with the Government of Saskatchewan to give a presentation on Employment Standards.

This will be a great discussion and help your business run efficiently knowing the major changes in employment standards. Registration is open on the Chamber website, or by contacting the Chamber office.

The Weyburn Chamber of Commerce has partnered with the Saskatchewan Chamber with the goal to have our members engage and provide their input on subjects like the economic landscape, Government policy and regulations, many other concerns or opportunities facing business in Saskatchewan. We highly recommend that our members sign up with Input Sask to ensure your voice is being heard. The data gathered through Input Sask is contextualized and shared with the Government.

As your Chamber we are here to strengthen our business community and are continually advocating on behalf of our members.

As summer comes to a close we hope that you made some lasting memories with your family. Summer is too short, but here at the Chamber we always look forward to fall and what it has to bring. It’s not only a busy time for the Weyburn Chamber, but for our members involved in the agriculture sector. We hope that everyone has a safe and successful harvest season.

The Chamber took some time to regroup over the summer and we want to extend our thanks to Larry Heggs who resigned at the end of June and congratulate him on his new role. Our new executive Director is familiar with the Chamber world and on behalf of the Board of Directors would like to welcome Monica Osborn.

As mentioned our fall will be busy with planning upcoming events such as our Coffee with the Chamber, Small Business Week and our signature event, Ag Appreciation Night set for November 1, 2022. The Chamber is asking for you to put forth nominations for the Golden Sheaf Award. This award is based on an agriculture producers contribution to, and participation in the agricultural industry, community and life. Nomination forms can be found on the Weyburn Chamber website or can be picked up from the office.

In this issue you will find more about upcoming events and how to get involved, as well as some resources that can help benefit our members.

The Chamber would like to congratulate Fletcher Funeral Chapel on their 30th Anniversary. If your business is celebrating a milestone reach out to us so we can help you celebrate.

As your Chamber we are here to strengthen our business community. The Board of Directors’ are currently seeking for an individual that is interested in being part of our organization. If you are interested in learning more about being a Director, please reach out to any of the Board Members or contact the Chamber office. Please feel free to stop by the office at 11 3rd Street Weyburn, or call us at 306.842.4738.

There are so many great things happening in this community I hardly know where to begin. A great local community organization The Young Fellows Club of Weyburn just hosted their annual Young Fellows Auction, and again as so many times before a huge success. This is just one more way that our business community supports the area, they support the Young Fellows who are able to give back to the community. A few popular events that are coming to the city includes the Car Show on June 18th in downtown Weyburn, and then Weyburn Tourism will be hosting a High Tea on June 25th with the Lieutenant Governor of Saskatchewan. This event will take place at the Soo Line Museum to celebrate the Queen’s Jubilee and showcasing the World’s Largest Personal silver collection.

To round out the month and kick off the summer, Weyburn Young Fellows are hosting Tenille Arts and the Hunter Brothers on June 30th. The day will begin with the Weyburn Chamber’s Annual Summer Parade. This year we have asked the Weyburn Young Fellows to marshal the parade to celebrate their 100th anniversary.

A highlight this month was Weyburn showcasing its oil and gas industry through the Saskatchewan Oil and Gas Show. During this show, people came from all over Canada to promote and support the oil and gas industry and what it means to our economy and the entire country. As the Weyburn Chamber of Commerce, we had the pleasure of working alongside the terrific board of the Saskatchewan Oil and Gas Show and helped assist them in its success. The Chamber has been busy advocating and educating our memberships in the last few weeks through various events. Our Public Policy committee met with MP Dr. Robert Kitchen to discuss current government issues.

The Chamber also hosted our monthly Coffee with the Chamber series with an expert from SaskBuilds, this was open to all our members. During the presentation we discussed tips and tricks for Saskatchewan Government tendering process. The Chamber will continue to be the voice of business for Weyburn and the surrounding area. We look forward to aiding members in any way we can to grow their business. Till next time

As I write this month’s letter, I reflect on more than just last month’s Chamber activities. I will also focus on your impact on me as my Presidency comes to an end. I have been honored to serve as Weyburn Chamber President over the last two years. Although these last years have been some of the most challenging the business sector has seen, rather than focus on Covid, I would like to focus on you, our business leaders. I have gained so much from all of you in the last two years. I think I speak for all past Presidents in our 80 plus years as a Chamber when I say, “This position while challenging at times, is very fulfilling.”

In the past month, the Chamber hosted the Weyburn realtors. We discussed the rental market, housing prices, availability of new legislation around subdivisions, and much more. Thanks to the agents from RE/MAX Weyburn Realty, Century 21 Hometown, and Royal LePage Signature for taking time out of their busy schedules to help the membership better understand the local housing and commercial markets.

The Chamber also met with the Canadian Natural Resource Minister to discuss agricultural farming practices related to the environment and why there is not recognition for their reduced carbon footprint. There was also discussion around carbon capture and enhanced oil recovery, the benefits to the world, and the lack of tax credits issued by the federal government. The Chamber Public Policy committee also had the chance to meet with MLA Dustin Duncan. This meeting served as pre-budget consultation, Saskatchewan Governments Covid response plan, and other items.

Typically, the end of March is our Annual General Meeting, and this year is no different. We will swear in a new Chamber President, Stephen Schuck, at this year’s dinner. I am confident with direction from both our members and existing Chamber Board, Stephen will bring more initiatives to the Chamber to help our members move forward. This year our guest speaker is Paul Martin, Saskatchewan’s leading business commentator. Tickets are on sale now. 

As your Chamber, we are here to strengthen our business community. Should you require any assistance, please feel free to stop by the office at #11 3rd St. Weyburn or call us at 306.842.4738.

With more than the weather changing outside, I am encouraged by upcoming removal of mandates and that we can continue our return to a normal business environment. Despite what the last twenty months has thrown at the local business community, you have pulled through resoundingly. I realize there are still hills to climb in this battle but as our business leaders, you will show us the way.

Nobody knows or understands the needs of their employees and customers better than you, the business owner. So as restrictions ease, I look to the business, not our government, to implement what they feel is needed to keep their customers and staff safe, while growing their business. Please be patient with all stakeholders as we move forward.

The Weyburn Chamber has been busy working with its counterparts to lobby a successful end to what we feel was an unnecessary burden by the Workers Compensation Board (WCB). WCB had intentions that if a staff member contracted Covid at their place of employment, it would negatively impact the business WCB rating. The Chamber has also had the opportunity to have a pre-budget meeting with Minister Dustin Duncan. We are always pleased to meet with our elected officials to discuss relevant topics of the business community.

The Chamber has some upcoming events, and on February 15^th we will meet with Weyburn realtors to discuss all things real estate. The timing is fortuitous given the fact that Weyburn has received notification that its population has grown by 1.6% since the last census in 2016, making us the 4^th fastest growing community in Saskatchewan. We will also be hosting a Handshakes and Hashbrowns with Mayor and Reeve coming in March. More details to come on this event and how you can get registered. And to wrap up March we will be hosting our Annual General Meeting on March 30^th with business commentator Paul Martin as our guest speaker.

At this year’s AGM, we will also swear in a new President, Stephen Schuck.

As your Chamber, we are always here to strengthen our business community. Should you require any assistance, please feel free to stop by the office at #11 3rd St. Weyburn or give us a call at 306.842.4738.

Happy New Year! 

Looking back on the year that was and the one to come, I am filled with both pride and optimism.  The leaders of this great city have faced not only the regular challenges that come with operating a business, but also so much more.  I tip my hat to you.  Your continued dedication not only to your business but to your staff and the community at large is nothing short of amazing.

On recap of 2021, the Weyburn Chamber has experienced change with a new Executive Director, Larry Heggs.  The Chamber has resumed live events and started distributing Covid rapid test kits, to name a few.  The Weyburn Chamber of Commerce also embarked on the largest campaign in its history, Meet Weyburn.  This campaign showcased several of our local businesses.  It was designed to both educate and excite people on what an outstanding local business community we have and why it is so vital that we support local. 

Looking toward 2022, the Chamber of Commerce will continue to maintain lines of communication with all levels of government.  We will advocate for our businesses at these tables to help move our members forward.  The Chamber will continue to host business education events, along with general networking events like the golf tournament, parades, seminars and celebrations.  The Chamber will host its annual general meeting on March 30th, which is always a great event to wrap up the year and look forward.  This year at the AGM, we will swear in a new President, Stephen Schuck.

As my tenure as President of the Weyburn Chamber of Commerce concludes, I would like to express my utmost gratitude for allowing me to be your President.  The Weyburn Chamber of Commerce is not only a group of individuals that strive to strengthen and support local business, but a network of business professionals that have led this community and will continue to lead this great city into the future.  For this, I say, thank you.

As your Chamber, we are always here to strengthen our business community. Should you require any assistance, please feel free to stop by the office at #11 3rd St. Weyburn or call us at 306.842.4738.

As we wind down 2021 and reflect on strides made from 2020, there is still much that lies ahead for our business community on the way to complete recovery from these last few years. I am, and remain, confident that this business community is up to the challenge.

The resilience, dedication, and downright passion you have for your business and the city of Weyburn is nothing short of amazing. The future is bright as we move forward and build momentum into 2022.

In mid-November, I had the pleasure of drawing the name for the first ever Chamber Bucks promotion of the Meet Weyburn campaign. The winner of $1,000 Chamber Bucks to shop at local Chamber members during the Christmas season was Donna Kopec.  The Meet Weyburn campaign focused on local spending and its effects on the local economy through awareness, education, and contests.

November is always busy at the Chamber hosting events and preparing for the New Year.

Coffee with the Chamber this month was presented by Weyburn’s City Police Chief Jamie Blunden.  Chief Blunden discussed both new and ongoing strategies. These include implementation of a new drug strategy, along with enhancing visibility and a traffic safety for the community.  Plans to build a healthier organization include enhanced safety, professionalism, and enhanced financial health for WPS.  The Chief also explained that they would receive a service dog in February, assisting primarily with drug searches. The Weyburn Police Service will also work toward improved transparency and accountability with the community.  Chief Blunden discussed a service the WPS offers to local businesses where they will come out and survey your location to both assess and help reduce the risk of break & enter or damage.  Once again, thanks to Chief Blunden for his time and commitment to the City.  

The Weyburn Chamber held its annual light parade on December 2nd. This year’s winners in their respective categories are Souris Valley Industries and Weyburn Skating Club. Congratulations to the winners and thank you to all the participants and attendees for coming out.

The hard work and incredible ideas continue to amaze me.  The continued support of events like these only reinforces what I already know; this astonishing business community cares as much about the community as they do about their very own business.  Thanks again for brightening everyone’s Christmas season.

On behalf of the board and staff of The Weyburn Chamber of Commerce, we would like to wish you a Merry Christmas and prosperity in the New Year.

As your Chamber, we are always here to strengthen our business community. Should you require any assistance, please feel free to stop by the office at #11 3rd St. Weyburn or call us at 306.842.4738.

Last month our community gave us so much for which to be thankful. Not only Thanksgiving, but events like Communithon, an event held annually that once again shows not only the generosity of our business community, but our city as a whole.  

The Chamber celebrated small business week in Canada from October 18 – 22^nd. This week is set aside annually to not only focus on what small business means to our economy but also a simple opportunity to say thank you for your hard work and dedication to the area. During the week we held a Handshake and Hashbrown Breakfast for our members with our partners from Community Futures Sunrise. As a group, we were led through the Go Digital Sask campaign. 

Go Digital Sask is an opportunity to take your business to the next level with various levels of marketing strategies; whether you need a website, shopping platform, logo design or social media assistance there is no cost for you to sign up. If you haven’t already done so, I suggest reaching out to the great folks at Community Futures Sunrise. 

Early in November, the Weyburn Chamber and its supporters from the business sector recognized agriculture and what it means to the local and global economies. Agriculture Appreciation Night was a huge success, a great night to network, develop relationships, and honor Brad and Roslyn Eggum as the Golden Sheaf winners for 2021. Congratulations to Holloway Ag Corp for their dedication to the agriculture industry.

This month the Saskatchewan Government released its Throne Speech. In the speech, the Government encouraged new investment in Saskatchewan. Items included the Value-Added Agriculture Incentive, 60 new police positions, among many other announcements. All are designed to make Saskatchewan a better place to live and do business. The Saskatchewan Government has also opened submissions for a review of The Workers Compensation Act. They are reviewing:

• The Workers’ Compensation Act, 2013 Act)
• The workers’ Compensation General Regulations, 1985
• The Workers’ Compensation Exclusion Regulations, 2014
• The administration of the Act and regulations

As business leaders, you are able to make suggestions to the committee between November 1, 2021, and December 15, 2021, at https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/public-consultations/committee-of-review-workers-compensation-act/  The Saskatchewan Government has also initiated training seminars around payroll requirements, layoff and termination, overtime, overtime banks, and vacation entitlements. If you are interested in either of these two programs or have questions, please feel free to reach out to the Weyburn Chamber office.

The Chamber has been working hard on the modernization of property taxes. This initiative is in conjunction with Chambers from around the province. There have been talks with SAMA, SUMA, and the province in changing to a more equitable two-year cycle. Although this has been a many-year battle with the province, we continue to advocate for business on tax reform.

As your Chamber, we are always here to strengthen our business community. Should you require any assistance, please feel free to stop by the office at #11 3rd St. Weyburn or call us at 306.842.4738.

As I look back at September and towards Thanksgiving, I am so thankful for our robust business community. The backbone of the economy is our hard-working individuals who are so generous to local charities and events.  Without the caring support of these businesses, rural Saskatchewan would not be would not be the place we all enjoy.  So, for this, I say thank you!

The Chamber would like to congratulate Dr. Robert Kitchen on his re-election in the Souris-Moose Mountain constituency.  We look forward to continuing our work with him.  Post Federal election, your Chamber will continue to work toward the needs of membership in our focus on government. 

This last month the Chamber hosted a variety of events including an All-Candidates Forum prior to the Federal election, and a Coffee with the Chamber that featured the Regina Airport Authority.  The presentation the Airport Authority gave was very informative. Some of the topics they discussed were the successful securement of the air traffic tower and what it means to the airport.  We looked at the current renovations to the airport to serve travelers better.  Direction around how flying currently is and what it will look like in the future—the steps on leaving and re-entering Canada with current Covid restrictions. Our next Coffee with the Chamber will be held in November. Coming up in October during Small Business Week (October 18 – 22) we will sit down for breakfast with Community Futures Sunrise and learn about their Go Digital Sask campaign, and all the great ways they help our small businesses grow.

The Chamber is in full swing with its shop local campaign, “Meet Weyburn”.  It has included multiple videos and advertising in the area regarding what shop local means to the economy.  As a Chamber, we are working on an education component to the public, emphasizing that even small purchases make a huge impact.  The videos that have already been released have reached over 27,000 people to date.  The final step that will take us into December is “Chamber bucks”. This allows one lucky winner $1,000 in Chamber bucks to spend at participating businesses, and the Chamber redeems the Chamber dollars to the retailer.  We hope, as a Chamber, this will not only create a buzz around the area but will also aid in Christmas shopping locally.  To be part of the Chamber Buck campaign, please reach out to our office. It’s not too late to join.

The Chamber is once again excited to host Agriculture Appreciation Night in November. We look forward to honoring someone from our incredible agricultural community.  The opportunity for fellowship and entertainment within the ag sector is always a great event. 

As your Chamber, we are always here to strengthen our business community. Should you require any assistance, please feel free to stop by the office at #11 3rd St. Weyburn or call us at 306.842.4738.