We Mean Business - Red Deer Chamber of Commerce

Will your business 

be ready? 

4 

Seize the future 

8 

Pandemic Q&A 

14 

Policy and the 

For Benefit sector 

16 

Moving to 

Red Deer 

21 

J u n e 2 0 0 9 

w w w . r e d d e e r c h a m b e r . c o m 

wemeanbusiness 

T H E O F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E R E D D E E R C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E 

Will your business 

be Ready?

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rights reserved. 

Locally Focused...Globally Connected 

Celebrating 

25 Years of Service! 

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I Z E = ” 4 ” 2 > K I N G C A R E O F B U S I N E S S T O G E T H E R

C O N T E N T S 

My Point of View 3 

Will your business be ready? 4 

Winnovate! 8 

Welcome New Members 10 

New and Renewed Members 13 

React or Ready? 14 

Policy Development 16 

Member Profile 18 

In the Spotlight 19 

RDRED 21 

Members in the News 24 

Chuckwagon Championship 25 

Farm and Acreage 26 

A Look Back 27 

Olympic Torch 29 

International Chamber of 

Commerce 30 

Contact Us By: 

Phone: 403.347.4491 

Fax: 403.343.6188 

Email: rdchamber@reddeerchamber.com 

Website: www.reddeerchamber.com 

Published by: 

Red Deer Chamber of Commerce 

3017 Gaetz Avenue 

Red Deer, AB T4N 5Y6 

Design & Production: The Prolific Group 

Disclaimer: 

We Mean Business is a quarterly publication 

of the Red Deer Chamber of Commerce 

describing issues and activities of interest 

to the membership. We Mean Business is 

compiled in a manner to ensure accuracy. 

However, the Red Deer Chamber of 

Commerce does not guarantee the 

correctness of all information herein, nor 

the absence of errors or omissions. No 

responsibility can or shall be assured. 

mypointofview 

M I K E A X W O R T H Y 2 0 0 8 - 0 9 P R E S I D E N T 

For the release of the provincial 

budget on April 7th, I was fortunate to 

be included in the lockup, the meeting 

held prior to the release of the 

budget. To prevent any early releases 

of the details of the budget, we were 

‘locked up’ in the cabinet room of the 

Legislature and not allowed to leave 

or use wireless devices until after 

Minister Evans stood in the house to 

present the budget. 

I was quite overwhelmed about the 

experience. Finances are not my 

strongest area. By looking around the 

room and talking to fellow attendees, 

I got the impression that the room 

was full of people who talk in dollars 

and percentages more than English. 

My feelings of being overwhelmed 

did not dissipate when I was handed 

the four-inch thick stack of budget 

documents. Once I started reading 

through the documents, I started to 

relax a bit. 

Not only does the group 

get an advanced view of 

the budget, but we were 

also able to ask questions 

of the officials who were 

responsible for creating it. 

One question on all of our 

minds was the $215 million 

of ‘to be found’ savings for 

this year. Apparently, at the 

release of the budget, this 

saving had not yet been 

found. 

A big surprise for all of us was 

that this was the first year 

that the budget was made 

using a barrel of oil cost 

that was above the current 

cost. We have still not hit 

that $55.50 per barrel cost 

and I am sure that they are 

watching the price of oil and 

gas like any nervous investor 

who has big holdings in a stock that 

has dropped. 

If the economy does not recover 

significantly, the budget has plans for 

two billion dollars of fiscal correction 

in the next three years. This fiscal 

correction is the big mystery in the 

budget. Of course, it will have to be 

cuts to services or increasing taxes, or 

a combination of both. And this will 

still leave us with a $10 billion dollar 

debt by 2012. 

Following the budget was the Alberta 

Chambers of Commerce Political 

Action Day dinner with the ministers. 

All Chambers of Commerce in Alberta 

were invited. We had a chance to ask 

questions on any areas of government. 

While some of the responses at the 

microphone were quite political as 

opposed to a straight yes or no, the 

talk around the dinner tables was 

quite candid. 

T A K I N G C A R E O F B U S I N E S S T O G E T H E R 3

Bracingforthecrunch 

Will your business be ready for 

the next labour shortage? 

Low natural-gas prices and the global economic recession 

have slowed Alberta’s economy over the past year. 

The slowdown has hit Central Alberta harder than other 

parts of the province, driving our unemployment rate above 

seven per cent, but many local business owners are greeting 

the decline as a welcome return to normal after years of 

unsustainable growth. 

The cash register may not be as full as last year, but at least 

there’s someone to run it. 

During the boom, the unemployment rate briefly dipped 

below three per cent—forcing local business owners into a 

fierce and sometimes desperate competition for staff that 

yielded big pay raises, attraction and retention bonuses, and 

other costly perks. 

Many business owners turned to the federal government’s 

Temporary Foreign Worker program to help fill jobs that no 

Canadian was qualified or willing to do. The program was 

a lifesaver for some businesses and meant the difference 

between staying open and closing permanently. 

These solutions worked, but they were expensive and timeconsuming. 

Economists and statisticians may differ on the dates and 

magnitude, but they agree that another labour shortage is 

coming. Despite the global recession, Alberta remains one of 

the best places in the world to do business. We have a strong 

and diverse economy in one of the most competitive tax 

regimes in North America. 

The coming labour shortage will be driven by our robust 

economy and aging population. In fact, Alberta’s Occupational 

Demand and Supply Outlook 2008-2018 predicts a shortage of 

93,000 workers within the decade. 

Will your business be ready? 

The Government of Alberta is doing its part by implementing 

its 10-year labour force plan: Building and Educating Tomorrow’s 

Workforce, which includes strategies to inform, attract, develop 

and retain workers in Alberta. 

continued on page 6 

4 

Canadian Workers & Students Returning 

Home? 

This spring Geny Samson is completing her Masters 

work at the College of Textiles at NC State University. 

A Mechanical Engineer, Samson will be completing her 

Masters in Medical Textile Engineering and is planning 

on returning to Canada. A native of Montreal, she 

misses things about her homeland and also feels that 

finding employment in the U.S. at this time will be a 

challenge. 

This is one example of many, with respect to Canadians 

considering returning home. There’s an estimated 2 

million Canadians in the U.S. and according to 2006 

Immigration Statistics, there are over 150,000 on 

temporary visas. The Canadian student population in 

the U.S. is between 25,000-30,000. 

As job losses in the U.S. escalate, students are not the 

only ones affected. Many Canadian workers on TN, H-1B 

or L-1B status are concerned about the consequences 

of losing their job while having visas tied to a specific 

employer. If they cannot find another employer to 

‘sponsor’ them for a new non-immigrant visa, they will 

have no choice but to return home. That could impact 

their kids in school, mortgages, healthcare benefits 

and could possibly result in significant relocation costs. 

At a recent Job Fair, Samson noted a growing trend 

where employers were not accepting applicants 

without U.S. residence. “That certainly narrows the 

window of opportunity for International students,” 

Samson stated. 

Maybe this is a reversal of the “brain drain” that 

occurred during the 90s. If that trend is reversed, 

Canadians returning home will be further educated, 

more experienced, and possess new networks. 

The Canadian Expat Network is an online community 

for Canadians abroad and will be launching a Job Board 

to post Canadian and U.S. employment opportunities. 

www.canadianexpatnetwork.com 

T A K I N G C A R E O F B U S I N E S S T O G E T H E R

Life’s good... 

Sing Along! 


continued from page 4 

Strategies includes everything from increasing high-school 

completion rates to developing pools of labour that are 

typically under represented in the Alberta workforce, such as 

Aboriginal people, older workers, and people with disabilities. 

It includes helping new Albertans put their skills to work, 

by helping them settle and get their foreign credentials 

recognized. 

The government has increased its training budget to help laidoff 

Albertans go back to school, upgrade their skills, and earn 

their credentials. 

And, the government has increased labour mobility by signing 

the Trade, Investment and Labour Mobility Agreement (TILMA) 

with British Columbia. The agreement, which came into effect 

on April 1, enables workers, like plumbers, welders, and nurses, 

to work in either province and go where the work is without 

having to worry about getting licensed in both provinces. The 

agreement also provides seamless access to a larger range 

of opportunities for businesses and recognizes corporate 

registration in both provinces. 

These strategies will help increase the incomes of Albertans, 

reduce the strain on business, and decrease our dependence 

on skilled foreign workers when the economy picks up again. 

Immigration and temporary foreign workers will continue 

to play an important role in meeting Alberta’s workforce 

needs, but as always, the government will follow the policy of 

Albertans. 

What are you doing to prepare your business for the next 

labour shortage? Here are some ideas: 

6 

Inform 

Determine what your current staffing demand is, how close 

to retirement your staff are, if other industries compete for 

the same staff you need, and what your current turnover 

and vacancy rates are. Figure out your future staffing needs. 

Consider if you plan to expand your business or if new 

technology will affect your staffing needs. 

Attract 

Good business people know to buy low and sell high. Use this 

slowdown as an opportunity to attract the best people. 

Develop 

Invest in your people—especially your junior staff—and talk 

to them about the future. Training junior staff to take on senior 

roles builds loyalty and means you’ll have the skilled senior 

people you need when the economy picks up. 

Retain 

Retaining your top performers is probably one of the most 

important investments you can make in your company. 

Experts estimate the cost of replacing an employee ranges 

between 25 and 200 per cent of the employee’s annual salary 

depending on the position, the current labour market and 

the amount of on-the-job training required. If your business 

is more than a year old, you probably already have a few tricks 

up your sleeve, but if you’d like a few more, check out Beyond 

Pay and Benefits on the Alberta Learning Information System 

(ALIS) web site at: www.alis.alberta.ca for low- and no-cost 

ways of retaining your valued staff. 

For more information on building your workforce for the 

coming labour shortage, visit www.employment.alberta.ca 

and click on Business and Industry. 

.ca 

EVERYTHING 

CERAMIC 


Tired of the status quo? 

Do you demand advertising that produces results? 

Do you expect extraordinary customer service? 

Looking for a radio station that’s truly local? 

We are … 

Local! 

Fresh! 

Energized! 

Interesting! 

Motivated! 

The radio landscape in Red Deer will 

change forever! 

Red Deer’s newest FM radio station 

launches this summer!!! 

CKIK FM is Red Deer’s only locally 

owned and independent radio station! 

CKIK FM will offer our listeners and 

our valued clients better radio! 

Join the movement… 

Contact our Marketing Team today! 

Sonia Sawyer 

General Sales Manager 

L.A. Radio Group Inc. 

403-358-3100 

403-357-4292 

Main: 403-358-3100 

Cell: 403-357-4292

Winnovate 

Seize the Future with Innovation 

The fundamental source of wealth creation in an economy 

is innovation that leads to increased productivity. Those 

productivity gains, whether generating more end-products 

or reducing the costs of existing production, are especially 

important to small and medium business. 

Canada is often criticized for a lack of innovation and 

its attendant economic underperformance, with the 

responsibility placed squarely on the private sector. With 

our relatively smaller population, smaller internal markets 

and smaller companies, it is even more important that we 

8 

proactively embrace innovation 

as a core business strategy. 

Fortunately, in Alberta, we’re 

seeing opportunities and 

resources continually developing 

that can be of significant benefit. 

Rick Tofani, who was until recently, 

Director of Applied Research & 

Innovation at Red Deer College, 

talked about some of the 

challenges that face companies 

whose success depends on their 

ability to innovate. “Innovation 

is about thinking about new 

products and acting on that 

thinking,” he says. Often, the 

innovator in the company is 

the owner and also its principal 

technical staff, which can prove to 

be a significant barrier to growth. 

Companies need technologists 

and technicians to carry out the 

work of the innovators. Then they 

need to get their new products 

and innovations to market. 

“Hire young technicians, train 

them up and get them to develop 

your products,” Tofani suggests. 

He believes young people are 

a largely untapped resource 

that will enable Alberta to be an 

innovation leader. “Most of these 

kids, because of the computer 

age, are so creative,” he says. 

“It’s about a mindset. You have 

to dream, you have to be right-brained and not always be 

pulled back to the left-brain mindset,” he says, adding that 

left-brained thinking is often the antithesis of innovation. 

Tofani refers a local company that has been successfully 

producing in Central Alberta for decades and has developed 

a solid niche in its product market. Recently, the company 

simply couldn’t find enough staff to produce the products 

and turned to innovation, developing robotic machines 

to do part of the manufacturing process. “They couldn’t 

find people to do that work,” he says. Development of four 

robotic machines led to work levels equivalent to ten staff. 

“The equipment is intended to complement existing staff 


and provide the staff (the company) doesn’t have,” Tofani 

explains. That work tends to be entry-level work that doesn’t 

appeal to people seeking a career. “Let the robots have (those 

positions),” he says, asserting that it’s far more important 

to have those people thinking creatively, reducing waste, 

streamlining the processes they work in every day, than 

replicating the work that can easily be accomplished with a 

machine. 

The development of centres for innovation in Alberta is 

rapidly changing the landscape for people and companies 

who have the ideas, but need resources to get them advanced. 

The Central Alberta Regional Innovation Network (CARIN), for 

example, is a partnership comprised of industry, academia, 

government and local economic development organizations. 

Through CARIN, companies can access prototype and process 

development, problem solving, innovation, technology 

and business training, as well as industry networking and 

advanced technology applications. 

It operates out of the Centre for Innovation in Manufacturing 

at RDC. 

The centres of innovation are strongly supported by the 

provincial government, Tofani suggests. He points to 

Alberta’s Innovation Voucher Program, originally funded with 

$2 million, but which grew to $5 million quickly, due to pent 

up demand for innovation support. Five Red Deer businesses 

benefited from the first round of the program, out of 179 

from around the province that shared in the fund. A second 

application process is expected this fall, with more vouchers 

to be received in the Spring of 2010. 

Tofani has moved on, and is now Director of Operations for 

Southern Alberta for the Alberta Research Council. He points 

to the talent pools and networking opportunities in the 

centres for innovation at RDC, Olds College, NAIT and SAIT 

and encourages business to get plugged in. 

Check online for these other resources on 

innovation in Alberta 

www.rdc.ab.ca/innovation/ 

www.technology.gov.ab.ca 

www.centralalberta.ab.ca 

www.advancededandtech.alberta.ca/ 

technology.aspx 

Speaker 

Series 

Thursday, July 2 

11:45 a.m. 

Red Deer Lodge 

TransCanada 

and the Environment 

Presented by 

Hal Kvisle 

President and CEO 

TransCanada Corporation 

Introduced by 

The Honourable James Prentice 

Minister of Environment 

Q & A to follow presentation 

To register, please call 403-347-4491 


welcomenewmembers 

T H E R E D D E E R C H A M B E R O F C O M M E R C E T H A N K S T H E F O L LO W I N G N E W M E M B E R S F O R T H E I R S U P P O R T A N D PA R T I C I PAT I O N . 

A NEW YOU: HAIR REMOVAL & SKIN 

REJUVENATION 

Kimberlee Gordon 

120, 2 Jewell Street, Red Deer, AB 

Ph: 403-505-6634 

I recently opened a Laser Hair Removal and Skin Rejuvenation business 

named "A New You". I am located in the Dolce Vita Salon and Spa in 

Red Deer. I am a certified technician that specializes in permanent hair 

removal and skin rejuvenation. 

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) hair removal is a new and advanced 

permanent hair removal method. The client lies in a comfortable 

position while the Technician glides a hand piece over his or her skin. 

Then a flash of light lasting a few milliseconds is delivered to the 

hair and hair follicles impeding regrowth. Because of the different 

growth cycles of the hair, permanent hair removal normally takes 3 

to 6 treatments, which can be done every 5 weeks. IPL hair removal 

will safely and effectively eliminate hair of ALL colors on any area of 

the body. Many of the other hair removal salons in Red Deer cannot 

remove ALL colors of hair. 

IPL also treats skin imperfections such as sun damage, freckles, 

wrinkles, acne, enlarged pores, spider veins, stretch marks and more. 

IPL was designed to combat the effects of aging and to treat damaged 

skin in a softer and gentler way. It delivers precise amounts of light 

energy through your skins surface which stimulates the production of 

collagen and elastin. As the new collagen and elastin form, they soften 

the appearance of aging skin. Collagen plumps up the skin and elastin 

firms it. Fine lines and wrinkles are therefore decreased. 

Come in to a private and relaxed spa atmosphere, where all client 

information and treatments remain confidential. Call to book your free 

consultation and get results. 

COMPLETE FLOORING SOLUTIONS INC. 

Dennis Fedun 

120, 4770 Riverside Drive, Red Deer, AB T4N 2N7 

Ph: 403-340-0604 Fax: 403-309-0099 

Complete Flooring Solutions is a locally owned and operated business 

with over 20 years experience within the flooring industry. Owners 

Dennis and Linda Fedun began with a flooring store in Yellowknife, 

NWT which is still operated by them. Shortly after moving to Red 

Deer in 2005 they opened Complete Flooring Solutions, a full service 

flooring store that goes beyond flooring. We carry hardwood and 

laminate, to carpet, linoleum, ceramic tile, and natural stone. Complete 

Flooring Solutions also has 3 design consultants on staff that can assist 

with choosing exterior colors to indoor paint, trim, cabinetry, counter 

tops, and wall tile. Our location has experience from working with 

new homes and renovations, to commercial work, we also offer free in 

home measures. We have a wonderful and dedicated staff in a family 

run business. 

10 

IMPACT CREATIVE 

Brian McLoughlin 

224-18 Averill Street, Red Deer, AB T4R 3J1 

Ph: 403-872-1947 

Impact Creative – Where New Ideas Take Flight! 

Every business has its own unique story to tell. It’s the who, what, 

when, where and why of what makes your business stand out from 

your competitors. It’s a story that is always changing, always expanding 

until it becomes the legend of who you are and what you do. 

The continued success of your business depends on how well and how 

often you tell that story to your current and prospective customers. 

There is never a “best” time to tell the world your story. Good times, 

bad times – you’re in business through them all and you need to stand 

out every time you need to close a deal. 

Impact Creative can help you tell your story in ways that are designed 

to make your company stand out from the crowd. Whether it’s 

commercial or event photography, graphic or web design, brochures 

or a complete branding package; we can help you create a legend that 

stands out and stands the test of time. Call us today at 403-872-1947 

or visit us on line at www.impactcreative.ca to put us to work for you. 

JASS SUNGLASSES & ACCESSORIES 

Jerry Anderson 

110, 4929 - 50 Street, Red Deer, AB T4N 1X9 

Ph: 403-986-1655 

Email: lganderson@shaw.ca 

We are centrally located in the Towne Centre Mall in the heart of 

downtown Red Deer. 

With over 40 styles of Fashion Eyeware, we have a pair of sunglasses 

for everyone. Men, Women and Kids are able to choose a style and fit 

that meets their needs for comfort and style. 

As well as sunglasses we carry collectibles that include Team Canada, 

NHL, CFL and NASCAR. 

Our Poster Art includes celebrities like Elvis, Marilyn, Bogart and Lucy 

among others. 

We regularly add new product to meet our customers’ requests and 

customer orders are available on some product lines. 

Our hours of operation are Monday to Friday, 9:30 - 5:30, Saturday, 

11:00 - 3:00. 

We look forward to serving you and your families. 


NORTH STAR SPORTS (RED DEER) INC. 

Jim & Connie DeZutter 

5121 - 47 Street, Red Deer, AB T4N 1R8 

Ph: 403-347-1000 Fx: 403-341-4585 

www.northstarsports.com 

It feels great to wear a shirt, hat, sports uniform, jacket or track suit 

emblazoned with your company’s logo and slogan! It says you’re 

proud of your firm’s accomplishments to date and that you want to 

show them off to the world. It’s an important tool in establishing the 

“team” and developing a strong esprit de corps. 

With both on site embroidery and screen printing facilities in Red Deer, 

North Star can decorate virtually any style of garment. We always strive 

for excellence, and we’re committed to continuous improvement. 

To that end, we sold off our retail division to Gord Clark in 2006 to 

focus on outfitting our corporate clients, teams and schools with the 

latest clothing, promotional products and equipment. Most recently 

we’ve been training with international experts; attending industry 

conferences throughout North America while establishing a strong 

network of industry leaders and mentors. We’ve stepped up our game 

to include printing styles and techniques utilized by the most fashion 

conscious garment decorators in the world. 

We invite you to stop by our newly renovated showroom, located 

where we’ve always been in downtown Red Deer, to request a FREE 

copy of our latest special report: “Guerilla Marketing Strategies – How 

to Squeeze Every Last Drop of Value from Your Marketing Program.” 

OTB ENTERPRISES INC. 

Bob Wolford 

150, 6900 Taylor Drive, Red Deer, AB T4P 1K4 

Ph: 403-347-0400 Fax: 403-347-0409 

Email: paragolf@telus.net 

www.paradisegolfandrec.com 

Paradise Golf and Recreation is Red Deer’s most unique place to have 

a great time. We have three private rooms to hold your company or 

personal functions. Our rooms are equipped with aboutGolf’s PGA 

Tour approved simulators, Xbox 360 and Wii game consoles, Dolby 

digital surround sound systems, internet hook-ups, 9x12 foot screen 

and projector, satellite TV and conference calling phone systems all 

with the capability to be hooked together. We can handle groups and 

meetings from 4 to 50 and have some fun after the meeting. Parties 

are a blast with your family and friends at Paradise. Imagine the thrill a 

valued employee or customer would receive with a reward they could 

share with their family, friends or co-workers. Fun begins at Paradise 

Golf and Recreation! 

PEACE OF MIND HOME SUPPORT AND RESPITE 

SERVICES INC. 

* We provide Services to Red Deer, Wetaskiwin, Camrose, 

Edmonton areas * 

Krystell Dahlen 

201, 5920 - 58 Avenue, Red Deer, AB T4N 4V2 

Ph: 403-848-0271 

At Peace of Mind Home Support Services, we are a Private Agency, 

dedicated to providing compassionate, caring and understanding 

support to you and your loved ones, 24 hrs/day 7 days/week. We 

provide ongoing support to the Elderly/Adults/Children with 

Developmental or Physical Disabilities. 

• We provide Home Care Services 

• Respite Services in your home – To give family caregivers a much 

needed break. 

• Child Respite Services in your home – To give parents a much 

needed break. 

• Comfort Care to Cancer Patients, Palliative Care, After Surgery 

Care. 

• We fully Support Elderly Parents wanting to remain in their own 

homes, we will come in 24 hrs. a day 7 days a week, so they don’t 

have to move to a Lodge. 

• House Keeping Services / Decluttering Services/ Home 

• 

Organization Services. 

Moving Out? Do you need professional cleaners to come in? 

• Support to Dr. Appts. / shopping / assistance on a holiday/ 

assistance to a function. 

• Do you need a walking /exercise partner? We would be happy to 

assist you. 

• Companionship 

• WCB PROVIDER – Did you get injured at work? And need assistance 

at home until you can get back to work? Give us a call. 

PELLEGRINI LEBLANC - PARTNERS IN PLANNING 

Perry Pellegrini 

4914 - 55 Street, Red Deer, AB T4N 2J4 

Ph: 403-347-8833 Fax: 403-340-3779 

http://www.pellegrinileblanc.com 

Pellegrini LeBlanc – Partners in Planning is a unique financial planning 

firm committed to providing the highest level of integrated financial 

advice for their clients. For nearly 20 years they have delivered a “carry 

the ball” approach to dealing with financial issues. Perry Pellegrini 

and his Team provide an experienced and qualified approach to 

comprehensive financial planning, including: income planning, tax 

planning, investment management and estate planning. 

Perry and his Team serve the needs of a diverse group of clients, 

including: retiring farmers, business owners, affluent seniors and fast 

track retirees. 

In today’s complex tax, legal and financial world, it is important that 

YOUR team has someone you can go to. Pellegrini LeBlanc’s success 

comes down to their absolute commitment of being the “go-to” 

resource for their clients. 

STELMACK FLOORING INC. 

Chris Stelmack 

1, 6221 - 46 Avenue, Red Deer, AB T4N 6Z1 

Ph: 403-318-6972 

info@stelmackflooring.ca 

Stelmack Flooring is an install only company specializing in hardwood, 

laminate, and cork installations. We are members of the National 

Wood Flooring Association and we take pride in following all their 

installation recommendations and guidelines. We work for retail 

flooring stores, builders and contractors, as well as private customers. 

Stelmack Flooring does everything from a single-room renovation to 

custom estate homes to large commercial projects. No job is too small 


or too big for us. If you are looking to take advantage of the home reno 

tax credit, we are the ones to do your wood flooring renovations. We 

offer free in-home measures and quotes, and all of our staff are very 

professional and friendly. Please phone us to set up a measure, and we 

can bring our portfolio of some of the work we have done, and show 

you some of the custom things we can do for your home or business. 

If you want a really special wood floor you'll be proud to show off, we 

are the ones to call! 

SUREHIRE INC: PRE-EMPLOYMENT SCREENING & 

OCCUPATIONAL TESTING 

3216a – 22 Street, Springbrook, AB T4S 1W4 

Ph: 866-944-4473 Fax: 780-980-3663 

E: info@surehire.ca 

http://www.surehire.ca 

SureHire Inc. is an Alberta owned and operated occupational testing 

company and the fastest growing occupational testing company 

in Canada. Founded in Leduc, Alberta in 2004, SureHire originally 

began by providing pre-employment medicals and physicals. But 

through the years we have evolved to include, drug & alcohol testing, 

audiometric testing, carpal tunnel testing, mask fit testing, spirometry 

testing and even background checks. In Summer 2007, SureHire 

opened up a location in Red Deer, but after reviewing our location, we 

relocated to the Springbrook Training Centre, directly in Springbrook. 

We currently offer occupational testing services in our Springbrook 

location Monday through Friday, and have the ability to offer on-site 

or after hours testing 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Since SureHire 

first began in 2004, we have launched 8 other locations across Canada 

and have acquired a network of 9000 collection sites across North 

America. Give us a call today to experience the SureHire Advantage. 

THE MIXING SPOON 

Deb Jackson and Colleen Hovey 

Box 56, Lousana, AB T0M 1K0 

Ph: 403-505-2931 Fx: 403-749-3585 

email: info@themixingspoon.ca 

www.themixingspoon.ca 

The concept for The Mixing Spoon began a few years ago. Deb 

Jackson and Colleen Hovey set out to develop a new fundraising idea. 

A group of senior high students (their own daughters included) from 

Delburne School were going to France, and they needed a fresh idea 

to take to the community. The community really responded, and Deb 

and Colleen soon saw that they weren’t the only parents looking for 

a simple fundraising idea that they didn't have to feel guilty about 

selling to family and friends. 

When customers started to ask where they would be able to get the 

jars once the fundraiser was finished (and the nicest compliment of 

all, "Can I have the recipe?"), they realized that the potential was there 

to take it to the next level. Starting in January of 2008, they took their 

10 best recipes and offered them to schools, sports organizations, 

community groups, and anyone else needing to fundraise. The 

response has been outstanding, with nearly 30 groups province wide 

benefiting from the program last year. 

The Mixing Spoon offers premium quality soup, brownie, cookie and 

muffin mixes. Our jars are beautifully packaged, making them perfect 

for gift giving as well as to fill your own pantry shelves. Our products 

are priced right, so they are easy for your participants to sell. We have 

no frozen product, only dry mixes, so it’s an organizer’s dream. With a 

very good profit margin for your organization, The Mixing Spoon is a 

great choice for your fundraising needs. 

12 

Deb and Colleen are very excited to be a part of the Chamber of 

Commerce and look forward to meeting many of you over the next 

while. 

THE ORGANIZING GURU 

Lynne Ring 

Red Deer, AB 

Ph: 403-343-2201 Fax: 403-755-3565 

organizingguru@shaw.ca 

http://www.organizingguru.ca 

“A Cluttered space makes for a cluttered mind” The Organizing Guru 

offers a professional, practical approach to your organizing needs. 

Whether it’s getting your home in order or your workplace working 

more efficiently, we are here to help you. 

Services offered: 

Business – general office organization, space planning, development of 

improved processes, paper flow, information and time management. 

Residential – de-cluttering, storage solutions for all rooms and closets, 

organizing of garages, attics and basements, sorting of collections 

and memorabilia, moving and relocation solutions, family and time 

management. 

Removing physical clutter from your work or home environment can 

result in a wide range of benefits – better use of space, reduced stress, 

a renewed sense of calm allowing you to focus on the task at hand, 

whatever that may be. 

Contact: Lynne Ring to set up an appointment to see how we can 

help YOU! 

U WEIGHTLOSS CLINIC 

Katherine Christie 

104A, 4315-55 Avenue, Red Deer, AB T4N 4N7 

Ph: 403-340-0612 

www.becomeuagain.com 

U Weight Loss Clinic opened its doors on September 2, 2008 as the 

first U Weight Loss Franchise in Alberta. Clinics are now located across 

Canada, with 5 new stores scheduled for Alberta in the next 6 months. 

As co-owners of U Weight Loss Red Deer, Kaylah Robinson and Kathy 

Christie have not only watched amazing transformations physically 

and emotionally with their clients, but have also achieved personal 

goals in health and fitness through the U Weight Loss program. 

U Weight Loss Clinics across Canada held a “U Can” Food Drive in 

December, 2008. The Red Deer clinic raised just under $3,000.00 in 

cash and food donations for the Red Deer Food Bank. U Weight Loss 

Clinics are a proud co-sponsor of the Winner's Ovarian Cancer Walk in 

September. 

PROFESSIONAL 

U Weight Loss Clinics offer scientifically based clinically effective 

programs that always place the safety and success of its clients first. 

Our team is dedicated to the principles of quality support, integrity 

and compassion. 

HEALTHY 

At U Weight Loss Clinic, we combine principles of nutrition, natural 

therapy, education, and counseling in an inviting atmosphere. Our 

goal is to literally reshape you, from the inside as well as the outside 

into a healthier U. 


AFFORDABLE 

Our comprehensive program was uniquely developed by combining 

the disciplines of science, physiology, and nutrition to deliver proven 

weight management solutions in the most affordable manner 

possible. 

Discover the 3 simple secrets on how to lose your weight the right 

way, live your life to the fullest, and love the new U. 

Secret 1: detox & cleanse 

Reach weight loss goals with energy and ease 

• Free your body of toxins and cravings 

• Improve your skin's appearance 

• Increase your energy 

• Prevent overeating and control your appetite 

Secret 2: hormonal balance 

Start on the road to health 

M E M B E R S - N E W 

FEBRUARY 2009 

Association Canadienne-Francaise de l’Alberta 

de Red Deer 

Complete Flooring Solutions Inc. 

Howard Johnson Inn 

Kenmar Investments Ltd. o/a Town ‘n Country 

Water Systems 

Kirk Miller Properties, Inc. 

MatchPoint (Division of Business Synergies) 

Peace Country Dental Studio Inc. 

SADONA 

Stelmack Flooring Inc. 

Sure Hire Red Deer 

Web Ace Inc. 

MARCH 2009 

All Wrapped Up! Custom Gift Baskets by Marilyn 

Brico Holdings Inc. 

Canadian Mental Health Association 

Central Labs Ltd. 

Cintas Canata 

D & A Financial Services Inc. 

Dean Allison Bobcat & Landscaping 

M E M B E R S - R E N E W E D 

Alphabetically, by years of consecutive membership 

FEBRUARY 2009 

46 BIG 105 FM 

46 Border Paving Ltd. 

46 Heywood Holmes & Partners LLP 

46 Johnston Ming Manning LLP 

46 North West Motors (Red Deer) Ltd. 

44 Looker Office Equipment & Furniture 

43 Westerner Park 

36 The Key Hole 

31 Parkland Income Fund 

27 Evraz Inc. NA 

27 Holiday Inn - 67th Street 

20 Western Wallprinting Corp. 

Going Above and Beyond Real Estate, Coldwell 

Banker Ontrack Realty 

HighRoad Travel Inc. 

Impact Creative 

Jass Sunglasses & Accessories 

MJB Marketing 

Peace of Mind Home Support & Respite Services 

Inc. 

Pellegrini LeBlanc - Partners in Planning 

Red Deer Native Friendship Society 

Red Room Salon Inc. 

RJ Traptow Services Ltd. 

Shelley Hager @ Coldwell Banker 

Snow Removal Systems (Canada) Inc. 

Stantec Consulting Ltd. 

Tail Blazers Health Food Store for Pets 

Waskasoo Environmental Education Society 

Wheatstone Consulting Inc. 

APRIL 2009 

A New You 

Central AB Refugee Effort 

Coldwell Banker On Track Realty 

Collegiate Sports Medicine Inc. 

Execu Concepts Inc. 

19 The Truck Outfitters Inc. 

18 Hair Masters 

14 Kellough Enterprises Inc. 

13 Academy of Learning 

13 Community Futures Central Alberta 

13 Costco Wholesale 

13 Parkland Community Planning Services 

13 Red Deer County 

13 Red Deer Express 

12 Century 21 Advantage - Commercial* 

12 Parkland Party & Equipment Rentals Ltd. 

11 MicroAge Computer Centre 

11 Only Women’s Fitness 

• Balance your blood sugars 

• Achieve better health and hormonal harmony 

• Improve your concentration 

• Lose fat and transform your body 

Secret 3: increase metabolism 

Set the foundation for a healthier tomorrow 

• Boost your metabolic rate 

• Maximize your energy levels 

• Achieve your target weight 

• Improve libido 

Chamber Members booking a HEALTHY WEIGHT ANALYSIS BEFORE 

AUGUST 31 WILL RECEIVE A FREE DETOX AND CLEANSE KIT AS WELL 

AS “WHAT SHAPE ARE U THIS SUMMER” GIVING YOU 8 WEIGHT LOSS 

WEEKS FOR FREE!!! 

TO BECOME U AGAIN LOG ONTO www.becomeuagain.com 

10 Mason Martin Homes 

10 Red Deer City Soccer Association 

10 Trophy Loft (1998) Ltd. 

8 Sun Life Financial 

8 Totem Building Supplies Ltd. 

6 Ralph Salomons Commercial Inc. 

5 Bethany Care Foundation - Bethany 

Collegeside 

5 Four Star Drywall Inc. 

4 106.7FM The Drive 

4 OK Tire & Auto Service - Red Deer North 

o/o by: Dash Motorsports Inc. 

4 The Vancouver Board of Trade 

4 Uncle Ben’s RV & Auto 

3 Adrienne Marie Photography 

3 Bob & Dave’s Collectibles / Laboda 

Enterprises 

3 Photek Commercial Photography 

3 Red Deer Electric Ltd. 

3 Red Deer RV Parts & Service 

3 Rolyn Hills B & B and Guest Ranch 

3 Thru the Windshield 

2 Absolute Fusion Contracting 

2 Acupuncture Health Center 

2 B & M Recruitment Solutions 

2 Deloitte Corporate Finance Ltd. 

2 Diesel Electric 

2 Edwards & Holloway Therapeutic Massage / 

Alberta Institute of Massage 

2 J.P. Timmins Consulting 

1 Coldek Contracting Ltd. 

1 Executive Health & Fitness Inc. 

1 Factors Western 

1 Hearthstone Property Management Inc. 

1 Laser Derm / Hummingbird 

1 One-to-1 Fitness 

1 Preece Industries Ltd. 

1 Redstone Grill and Wine Bar 

MARCH 2009 

46 Century 21 Advantage 

46 Red Deer Eye Care 

41 Red Deer Public School District # 104 

40 RBC Royal Bank 

36 ATB Financial 

36 Westward Parts Services Ltd. 

35 Nyman’s Artmarks 

33 Eecol Electric 

27 AES Industrial Supplies 

27 Alberta Yard Care Ltd. 

27 Meyers Norris Penny LLP 

26 Sky Wings Aviation Academy Ltd. 

23 First Independent Real Estate Ltd. 

22 Mills Travel Ltd. 

18 Pike Wheaton Chevrolet Ltd. 

17 Red Deer Rebels Hockey Club 

16 Communications Group Red Deer Ltd. 

15 Red Deer Discount Golf Centre 

13 Focus Design Group 

13 Sylvan Learning Centre 

13 TacoTime 

12 London Drugs 

12 The Fine Vine 

12 The Runner’s Den Inc. 

11 Lebedoff Developments Ltd. 

10 Ax Computer Consulting 

10 Sutton Group Landmark Realty 

9 Bud Haynes & Co. Auctioneers Ltd. 

9 Freelance Appraisals Inc. 

8 Advertise Yourself 

8 Bruin’s Plumbing & Heating Ltd. 

8 Paradise R.V. 

8 Phoenix Insurance 

8 Vold Audio Group 

7 Community Capital 

6 Pathways Psychological & Educational 

Services 

6 Simco Developments Ltd. 

6 The Original Basket Boutique 

6 World Professional Chuckwagon Association 

5 Beltone The Hearing Centre 

5 Budal Construction Ltd. (314150 AB Ltd.) 

5 Gorts Truckwash 

5 Ing & McKee Insurance Ltd. 

5 Montgomery Auction Services Ltd. 

5 This & That Sharpening 

4 A-1 Transmission 

4 Abundancenet 

4 Alfano Homes 

4 Alpine Insurance & Financial Inc. 


4 Badass Jacks Subs & Wraps 

4 Invis Inc. 

4 Mohave Grill 

4 Representative of World Financial Group 

4 Safety Now 

3 Bill Haldane Appraisals Ltd. 

3 Bradley’s Water Systems 

3 Hostelling International Canada - Northern 

Alta 

3 LifeLegacy Wealth Management 

3 Salon Salon Hair Studio & Day Spa Inc. 

2 24-7videotours.com 

2 Associated Engineering 

2 Bareskin Wellness & Beauty 

2 Central Alberta Technology Solutions 

2 Coast Wholesale Appliances LP 

2 Edo Japan 

2 J.J.’s Flowers & Designs Ltd. (o/a Grower 

Direct) 

2 Platinum Denture Clinic Ltd. (o/a Associates 

Denture Clinic) 

2 Red Deer Curling Centre 

2 Rocky Mountain Wine & Food Festival 

2 Starsand Holdings Inc. 

2 Style Matters Inc. 

2 Techspray Inc. 

2 The Property Shop Inc. 

2 Universal Mortgage Solutions 

1 Central Music Festival Society 

1 Dayhome Connections Ltd. 

1 Energy Effects 

1 Paul Davis Systems of Red Deer 

14 

1 Starbucks Coffee Company - Store 4634 

Taylor Plaza 

1 Tech Spray / Rhino Lining of Central Alberta 

1 World Taekwondo Academy 

APRIL 2009 

46 Collins Barrow Red Deer LLP - Chartered 

Accountants 

46 Red Deer Bottling Company Ltd. 

46 TD Canada Trust 

46 Westburne Alberta Electric Supply 

40 Peavey Mart 

35 Adanac Insurance Services Ltd. 

32 The City of Red Deer 

24 Sim’s Furniture Ltd. 

24 Van Houtte Coffee Services Inc. 

19 Jumbo Car Wash Inc. 

18 Manpower Services 

16 Alpine Dental Laboratory Inc. 

16 BWS Fabrication 

16 Caroline G. Krivuzoff Prof. Corp. 

16 Full Throttle Upholstery Ltd. 

16 The Phone Experts Communications Ltd. 

15 DirectWest - Publishers of: The EZ Finder 

Phonebook 

14 Associate Massage Therapy Clinic Ltd. 

14 Courts Building Maintenance Ltd. 

14 South Hill Muffler & Brake Shop Ltd. 

13 Badger Daylighting LP 

11 … comforts the sole 

11 The Assoc. of Professional Engineers, 

Geologists and Geophysicists of Alberta 

In the event of a pandemic, what are the employer 

responsibilities under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, 

Regulation and Code? 

Employers are required to ensure the health and safety at the 

workplace and should establish a plan for addressing and 

responding to emergency situations such as those that may arise 

during a pandemic. 

I’m concerned about my health because my co-worker is at 

work with symptoms of the flu during a pandemic emergency 

situation. What can I do? 

Every employer should have a plan to address this type of 

situation and if health and safety is at risk, steps must be taken to 

minimize the risk. At the same time, workers who are sick are also 

responsible to care for their own health and protect the health 

and safety of their co-workers. 

As a concerned worker, tell your supervisor, and ask about the 

plan that your employer has for addressing emergency situations. 

Workers who are ill with highly contagious and serious infections 

must take measures to prevent the spread to coworkers. 

My co-worker has symptoms of the flu during a pandemic 

emergency situation. Is this “imminent danger” for the purposes 

of Section 35 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act? 

10 Central Restorations & Renovations Ltd. 

10 M.A.C. Leasing & Vending Ltd. 

9 Corvet Construction (1977) Ltd. 

9 Deermart Equipment Sales Ltd. 

9 Diversified Products.Net 

9 GPW Pure Water Ltd. 

9 Key AgVentures Inc. 

9 Woodmaster Cabinets Ltd. 

8 David Thompson Health Trust 

8 Pack & Post 

8 Techniques Hair Therapy & Day Spa Inc. 

7 Montana’s Restaurant Red Deer Ltd. 

7 The Framing Nook 

6 Central Alberta Economic Partnership Ltd. 

(CAEP) 

6 PRO-CARE Landscaping 

6 USC Education Savings Plans Inc. 

5 Crater Lake Drilling Ltd. 

5 Permolex Ltd. 

5 Russel Metals Inc. 

5 Totally Refreshed Steam & Spa 

5 Western Barley Growers Association 

4 Comfort Inn & Suites 

4 Money Mentors 

4 The Eye Studio Optometry Clinic 

4 Value Village 

3 Alberta Funeral Service Association 

3 Busse Homes Ltd. 

3 Chuck’s Team 

3 Family Services of Central Alberta 

3 J and JB Auto 

pandemicQ&A 

3 Jackpot Casino Ltd. 

3 Red Deer Food Bank Society 

2 Bricks & Logs Enterprises Ltd. 

2 Canadian Blood Services 

2 Global Wellness Homes 

2 Graden Systems 

2 Red Deer Lions Club 

1 24K Mobile.tv 

1 619543 Alberta Ltd. o/a Better Bodies Red 

Deer 

1 90-10 Financial Services 

1 Alberta Feed and Consulting Ltd. 

1 Beneficial Consulting & Staffing 

1 CAUSE Canada 

1 CBI Group 

1 Central Alberta Web Development 

1 Homestead Custom Carpentry Inc. 

1 Lakeside Motorcycle Service 

1 Making Strides 

1 Mikasa Performance 

1 Outcast Society Paintball 

1 Pace Manufacturing Ltd. 

1 Ridge Enterprises Inc. 

1 Romar Energy Services Ltd. 

1 Schnell Hardy Jones LLP 

1 STOR Office Furniture 

1 The Studio Holistic Health Centre 

1 Waters Mackie Valuations Inc. 

1 Western Barley Growers Association 

For the purposes of Section 35 of the Occupational Health and 

Safety Act, this would not be considered imminent danger. There 

are two considerations for determining imminent danger. The first 

is whether a hazard is dangerous and would likely cause an injury 

or put a worker’s life at risk. The second is whether the hazard is 

normal for that occupation. In the case of a co-worker with the 

flu, neither consideration applies. While a potential exposure 

exists, illness may or may not ensue. Workers who are concerned 

with any uncontrolled hazards should discuss with the employer 

the steps to be taken to effectively control the hazard. Also, in a 

pandemic outbreak situation, the danger of contracting the flu 

becomes normal to all occupations. When dealing with workplace 

hazards, employers have the obligation to take effective steps to 

minimize worker exposure to the health and safety hazards. 

Must an employer ensure that a worker is trained in the safe 

operation of the equipment that the worker is required to 

operate during a pandemic? 

Employers will be expected to meet the requirements of the 

Occupational Health and Safety legislation regardless of whether 

a pandemic exists. If an employer cannot ensure that a worker is 

trained in the safe operation of equipment, then the worker must 

not operate that equipment. 


Does an employer need to involve employees in pandemic 

planning for the work site? 

Yes. It is prudent for an employer to include employees to obtain 

input, hear concerns and address issues that may arise. It would 

also help in communicating the emergency plan to everyone. 

Where do employers and workers get information about health 

effects and precautions related to a pandemic? 

Alberta Health and Wellness provides information about health 

effects and preventing the spread of infection. In the event of 

a pandemic, Alberta Health and Wellness will lead the health 

sector response, and will establish a Pandemic Response Centre. 

It will support coordination among regional health authorities, 

coordinate vaccine delivery across the province, provide 

information, collect data on the spread of the disease in Alberta 

and help resolve any health care issues that may arise. 

Alberta Municipal Affairs and Housing will lead the response 

regarding the non-health consequences of a pandemic, primarily 

through Emergency Management Alberta (EMA). EMA will 

communicate with municipalities, monitor the effect of the 

pandemic on essential services, coordinate volunteer activities 

and federal assistance programs and monitor the need for 

support among families of victims. Each provincial government 

department will have contingency plans for the delivery of 

provincial services, and will assist Alberta Health and Wellness, 

Emergency Management Alberta, regional health authorities and 

municipalities. For additional information, go to 

www.health.gov.ab.ca/influenza/pandemic.html 

Alberta Health and Wellness 

http://aema.alberta.ca/ema/Business_Pandemic_checklist_final. 

pdfAlberta Municipal Affairs and Housing 

As a first aider am I responsible for providing first aid to someone 

who has flu symptoms? 

Yes, as the designated first aider at the worksite you will be 

responsible for providing first aid and recording the first aid 

provided. Standard precautions must always be used, regardless 

of whether there is a pandemic. All legislated requirements still 

apply. 

How do I protect myself from exposure to influenza at work? 

The goal is to keep exposure as low as reasonably possible. 

Strategies to minimize exposure can include workers working 

altering shifts or working from home. The controls should be in 

the employer’s plan. 

Alberta Health and Wellness along with your local health authority 

will give advice about personal protective equipment such as 

masks. 

Is the employer obligated to provide protective equipment to 

workers potentially exposed to influenza pandemic at work? Does 

an employer need to provide respiratory protective equipment? 

If a hazard exists and exposure cannot be prevented or minimized 

in any other way (i.e., by engineered or administrative controls), 

then the employer is required to provide personal protective 

equipment as the last line of defense to protect worker health 

and safety. If respiratory protection is needed, fit testing needs to 

be done. If wash basins are not available at work, waterless hand 

cleaners will be suitable. 

What provisions exist in the Employment Standards Code for 

sick leave or compassionate leaves? 

The Employment Standards Code does not require an employer 

to grant sick leave, compassionate leave or bereavement leave; or 

provide job protection for employees who stay home from work 

due to illness, family illness or other family issues. 

Do unionized employees have sick leave or compassionate 

leaves? 

Collective agreements may contain various provisions for paid or 

unpaid leaves of absence, including sick leave or compassionate 

leave. Check your collective agreement. 

If an employee does not go to work because of the illness of 

other employees and the employer fires the employee, what 

remedies does an employee have? 

The employee could claim he or she was fired without cause 

and make a claim for termination pay under the Employment 

Standards Code. Employment Standards would assess each 

claim on its own merits. The employee could also decide to seek 

independent legal advice and pursue a civil claim for damages. 

Could an employer require an employee to provide a note from 

a doctor to confirm absence due to illness? 

The Employment Standards Code has no such requirement. 

However, an employer’s policy or a collective agreement binding 

on an employee could contain this provision. 

Does the Employment Standards Code allow employers and 

employees to exceed the maximum hours of work in a day 

when urgent work is necessary, for example; where emergency 

medical services are needed? 

Yes. Section 16 of the Employment Standards Code, sets 

the maximum hours of work in a day and unforeseeable or 

unpreventable circumstances where the maximum daily hours 

may be exceeded. 

What legislation specifically addresses employment of 

emergency service personnel? 

The Labour Relations Code prevents firefighters and employees 

of approved hospitals or regional health authorities from striking 

or being locked out. 

The Public Service Employee Relations Act prohibits an employer, 

a bargaining agent or employees subject to the act from striking 

or being locked out. 

The Police Officers Collective Bargaining Act prevents police 

officers from striking or being locked out 

What emergency provisions exist in the Labour Relations Code? 

Division 18 of the Labour Relations Code addresses public 

emergencies arising from a labour dispute. This provision grants 

the Lieutenant Governor in Council authority to order the parties 

back to work if a dispute threatens public safety. 

If you have concerns about symptoms you or a co-worker is 

experiencing and want more information, contact HealthLink 

1-866-408-LINK (5465) or http://www.healthlinkalberta.ca 


policydevelopment 

With innovation and sustainability quickly establishing 

themselves as the key “go forward” messages within the three 

traditional sectors – government, business, and not-for-profit 

organizations – a new fourth sector is emerging: For Benefit. The 

focus of the eight Red Deer Chamber Policy Committees reflect 

this new frame of thought, through advocating for systemic 

change and long-term planning. 

Canadian Wheat Board 

The Agriculture Policy Committee has long favoured sweeping 

systemic change in the CWB, and recently had guests from 

the Western Barley Growers Association and the Alberta Grain 

Growers Association in to discuss potential advocacy and policy 

opportunities. The group intends to move forward with research 

and data gathering to develop strong recommendations for 

reform and explore effective avenues for advocacy. 

TILMA 

As of April 1, 2009, federal legislation has been enacted to 

implement the Trade, Investment and Labour Mobility Act (TILMA) 

on a national scale. Oddly, although the legislative trail was 

blazed in its 2007 TILMA with BC, Alberta is one of two provinces 

with the furthest to go in terms of putting it into practice. The 

Chamber’s Labour Force Policy committee recognizes that 

Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are the ones to suffer in 

the melee of change, and is developing a policy advocating 

for government support to minimize costs and confusion 

for SMEs when it comes to recognition of certificates. One 

idea is to encourage government to institute a 1-800 

number, similar to Health Link, that offers one-stop 

information and referral services. Labour experts 

also report that by the year 2018, potential exists 

for 100% of all needed labour market growth to 

be coming from New Canadians. Encouraging 

government, business and community to explore 

new avenues, adopt innovative ideas for services 

and supports, and sound long-term planning for 

such new realities are all on the Labour Force 

committee’s to-do list. 

RHESP – Supporting Life-long Learning 

A creative new idea for supporting a culture of savings and 

education is currently in the building stages. This collaborative 

effort between the Health & Education and the Finance & Taxation 

Committees is being unofficially dubbed the “Registered Home 

and Education Savings Plan”, and its elements were grown in 

the School of Experience (with a transfer program to the School 

of Hard Knocks). Overuse/abuse of credit has been blamed as 

perhaps the largest root of the global recession, and in a recent 

Ipsos poll, upwards of 75% Canadians indicated that they have 

less than three months worth of savings. That dynamic and the 

growing trend toward frequent career path changes, retraining 

and ongoing personal and professional development make this 

policy idea relevant and inspiring, and certainly well-noted as a 

sustainability-builder through innovation. 

Red Deer at 300,000 

Using the City’s long-range plan as a lens for planning and 

development, the Environment Policy Committee is working on 

a host of issues such as Brownfield redevelopment incentives, 

waste management, and fostering sustainable economic and 

industrial development through innovation and diversification. 

Managing conflict for competing resources and adopting 

a broader scope for assessing impact (how what happens 

in other parts of the country or world affects us here) are 

two important big picture issues being explored by the 

committee. 

Get Involved 

As the green season ramps up, the committees 

take a break to enjoy the beauty of the Red Deer 

region. However, in September, all of the Red Deer 

Chamber’s eight policy committees will reconvene 

and tackle these policy topics and more. New 

members are always welcomed; please visit 

w w w. r e d d e e r c h a m b e r. c o m / c o n t a c t / 

committee_home.asp for more information 

or contact dklooster@reddeerchamber.com.

Great Value & Sisterhood go a lot further here... 

4520 - 76 Avenue, Edmonton, AB T6B 0A5 

Tel: 780.468.5400 l Fax: 780.466.0451 

Toll Free: 1-800-661-5163 

Email: hotel@hiccedmonton.com 

www.hiccedmonton.com 

all the way to Red Deer to be exact. 

Meet 

The Holiday Inn Convention Centre, Edmonton and her sister 

The Holiday Inn 67th Street, Red Deer 

Two Great Hotels. Two Great Locations. Two Great Places to Stay. 

6500 - 67 Street, Red Deer, Alberta T4P 1A2 

Tel: 1.403.342.6567 

Toll Free: 1.800.661.4961 

Email: hotel@hi67.com 

www.hi67.com

memberprofile 

Technology is the key to enhancing the marketing reach of small 

business in today’s frenetic market and economy. While ideas 

abound, drawing them together into effective solutions requires 

expertise and experience. 

Here in the Red Deer corridor, Central Alberta Web Development, 

Inc. is organized to provide that combination. Lead by Nancy 

18 

Pollreis, the firm specializes in Website Design, E-Commerce, 

Content Management Systems (CMS) and Web Marketing. 

Nancy’s background includes degrees in Computer Science and 

Business Administration and 25 years of experience in Canada 

and the U.S., applying those skills to marketing and business 

challenges. 

In 2007, Nancy created the business, partnering with some of the 

best technologists, graphics artists, creative and business minds, 

establishing a collaborative team that can develop success with 

any challenge. 

With Nancy’s team doing the research and staying abreast of 

all new research data, adapting to the new marketing trends 

and new and emerging technologies, Central Alberta Web 

Development Inc. is positioned to provide local business, large 

and small, with a world-class online presence. 

Central Alberta Web Development, Inc.’s client list is rich with 

Chamber members and the company takes advantage of the 

networking opportunities Chamber membership provides. A 

regular exhibitor at Business After Hours, the firm can also be 

reached at 403-748-2683. To learn more about how Central 

Alberta Web Development, Inc. can assist your business 

in its marketing and business development, visit http:// 

centralalbertawebdevelopment.com 

ambassadorskickoff 

RED DEER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 

Save the Date 

Ambassadors Kick Off 

Date: September 3, 2009 

Time: Ambassadors “Red Badge Reception” 5:00pm 

Dinner at 6:15pm 

Place: River Bend Golf Course 

Ambassadors, make sure you find those red badges for the reception! 

Watch for more details coming soon! 


inthespotlight 

The Red Deer 

Chamber is well 

served by its army 

of volunteers. This 

edition’s volunteer 

spotlight falls on 

a professional volunteer, 

Rene Michalak. 

What qualifies him 

as a professional, 

you ask? Well, at 

his day job, he’s the 

Program Manager 

for Volunteer Red 

H e k n ows w h at 

Deer, a position that 

affords him a unique 

perspective on the 

breadth and depth of 

volunteerism in the 

Red Deer community. 

volunteers contribute, where those 

contributions are needed and why they are such a significant 

markyourcalendar 

resource in the city’s success. After a day at the office, Rene 

fills his life with other volunteer endeavors, like fulfilling the 

coordinator role in ReThink Red Deer and sitting on the City’s 

Environment Committee. 

Rene also chairs the Environmental Policy Subcommittee 

at the Chamber, steering it through a complex collection of 

ideas, issues and positions. He’s well grounded for that role, 

having considerable personal experience in raising issues and 

environmental awareness in the Red Deer region. “I’m looking 

to be the sustainability champion,” he says. He believes the 

technology already exists to solve the problems we face. All 

that’s lacking, he says, is the political will to use it. 

One of the initiatives he promoted was Garbage-Free Month, 

a concept he saw on CBC and decided to ‘give it a go’. He was 

impressed with the challenge and also the result – an awareness 

that we really don’t need to produce garbage, especially in the 

volumes we currently leave at the curb. 

The Chamber is fortunate to have Rene at the head of the 

environmental table and it bodes well for the policies we’ll see 

in the future. 

Speaker Series 

July Host 2, 2009 n’ Boast 11:45 a.m. 

Red June Deer 11, Lodge 2009 

Shalom Counselling 

Ambassadors Luncheon 

Sept. Volunteer 9, 2009 11:45 Appreciation a.m. BBQ 

North 

June 

Hill 

19, 

Inn 

2009 11:30 am - 1:30 pm 

Red Deer Chamber of Commerce 

President-elect Dom Mancuso 

Speaker Series 

Speaker 

July 2, 

Series 

2009 11:45 am 

Sept. 

Red 

16, 

Deer 

2009 

Lodge 

Red Deer Lodge 

Perrin Beatty, CEO Canadian Chamber of Commerce 

For more information and to register please visit: 

For www.reddeerchamber.com 

more information and to register, please visit: 

www.reddeerchamber.com 


Look who’s 

growing 

Despite the tough economic 

times, Bower Place continues 

to attract national and 

international tenants. 

“It is very clear that these 

businesses are investing in our 

community… and that’s exciting!” 

~ Joelle Brown, Marketing Director, 

Bower Place Shopping Centre 

20 

THE CHILDREN’S 

PLACE 


The Red Deer Regional Economic Development Partnership 

RDRED 

Moving to Red Deer or know someone who is? RDRED has 

created a website to make the transition of moving to the 

Red Deer Region easier. 

The downward shift in the availability of labour, due to aging 

Baby Boomers and a decreasing Canadian birth rate, will be 

a significant issue for local businesses in the near future. In 

2018, Alberta is expected to have a shortage of 93,000 workers. 

Currently, two thirds of Canada’s population growth is a result 

of immigration. In the next ten years, immigration is expected 

to account for 100% of population growth. This is the reason 

that RDRED focuses on labour attraction, with attention given 

to immigration attraction, settlement, and integration. 

The website, www.MovingtoRedDeer.ca, provides a one-stopshop 

for potential immigrants and newcomers to the Red 

Deer Region. Here they can obtain information on a variety 

of research topics including; housing, education, language 

services, healthcare, and the cost of living. 

MovingToRedDeer.ca is attuned to the language barriers 

that new immigrants might encounter. The site opens with 

a welcoming message in Spanish, Tagalog, Chinese, French, 

Persian and English. On the home page of the website, video 

messages from people who have immigrated to Red Deer 

are playing. Each person gives a welcoming message in their 

home language regarding the positive experience they had 

when immigrating and why one should relocation to the Red 

Deer Region. In addition, there are testimonials, which allow 

newcomers to hear firsthand experiences from immigrants who 

have recently moved to the region or who have been established 

in the area for an extended period 

of time. 

Information 

on the website 

is presented in five 

sections; about the Red Deer 

region, before you arrive, after 

you arrive, working in Red Deer and 

success stories. 

About the Red Deer Region has information 

on Red Deer’s economy, government structure, 

climate, history, recreation and arts and culture as 

well as facts about Alberta and Canada. 

Before you Arrive explains how to immigrate, cost of living, 

health care, housing options and learning English programs. 

After you Arrive describes the cultural groups, educational 

facilities, childcare information, transportation, places of 

worship, and police and emergency services available in the 

Red Deer Region. 

Working in Red Deer outlines ways to find jobs locally, 

employment standards, setting up your own business and 

interview tips. 

The final section, Success Stories features recent and seasoned 

immigrants describing their move to Red Deer as well as the 

quality of life in the region. 

All of these website sections provide important information to 

ensure a smooth transition for newcomers into our beautiful 

Central Alberta communities. 

RDRED has worked diligently with CARE (Central Alberta 

Refugee Effort) to ensure that content on MovingtoRedDeer. 

ca is user-friendly. By partnering with CARE, RDRED was able to 

create an informative website attuned to viewers’ needs with 

an intuitive layout, large captions and a clean, uncluttered 

appearance, allowing for easy navigation. 

www.MovingToRedDeer.ca benefits a wide Central Alberta 

audience. The information on the website is current, accurate 

and easily obtainable and provides a welcoming venue for 

immigrates, newcomers and those researching the area. The 

increased attraction and retention of new labour into the 

region will help to subdue a critical labour shortage issue that is 

expected in years to come. 

Alberta’s Occupational Demand and Supply Outlook, 2008- 

2018. Information obtained at http://employment.alberta.ca/ 

documents/LMI/LMI-LMF_occ_demand_supply.pdf, April 20, 

2009. 

* Does not include aboriginal population growth. 


ABC 82446 04/2008 

Having trouble attracting and 

retaining quality employees? 

Alberta Blue Cross - Red Deer Chamber 

2c (black and 22 pms 1807) 

An Alberta Blue Cross employee 

group benefit plan can help. 

In today’s tight Alberta labour market, businesses of all sizes are recognizing that having an 

Alberta Blue Cross group benefit plan is a great way to attract and retain quality employees— 

and a significant competitive advantage over those that do not. 

With Alberta Blue Cross, you’re able to offer the coverage that working Albertans know and 

prefer. Today over 1.4 million Albertans—including more than 5,000 Alberta employers— 

trust the practical benefits and affordable protection of Alberta Blue Cross coverage. 

If your business doesn’t have group benefits yet—or you have a plan through another benefit 

provider, we can put together an affordable plan for your business—whatever your budget 

and whatever your needs. Call us today! 

Too busy to consider a change? We’ll provide you with a simple noobligation 

quote and if you decide to switch, we make the transition to 

an Alberta Blue Cross group plan fast and easy. 

Red Deer (403) 347-7999 Toll-free 1-866-513-2555 www.ab.bluecross.ca 

Prescription Drugs • Dental • Extended Health • Vision • Travel Coverage • Critical Illness 

Health Spending Accounts Life and Disability • Employee and Family Assistance Program 



membersinthenews 

A major renovation of the pro shop at Alberta Springs golf course 

allows the business to offer golfers an expanded variety of apparel 

and equipment. Winter offers the opportunity to make leasehold 

improvements. The new look ties into the design of the rest of the 

clubhouse interior. 

BDO IS BIGGER AND BETTER 

RED DEER: BDO’s Red Deer and Red Deer West offices would 

like to announce their upcoming joint-move scheduled for 

June 27-28. Both offices (Red Deer West, formerly Cuthbertson 

Sandall & Partners, merged with BDO last year) will relocate to 

the Millennium Centre on the newly built 6th floor where they 

will open for business on Monday, June 29. 

"The partners of BDO feel that the move will help us to better 

serve our clients and attract staff," said Mark Beavington, 

Partner. "As one office, we will be able to take advantage of 

efficiencies and provide one, central location for our clients. We 

also see an investment in the downtown core as complimentary 

to proposed improvement plans by the City of Red Deer to the 

area around the Millennium Centre." 

Uniting the two offices will produce final numbers of 12 

partners, 4 senior managers, 3 managers, 49 professionals and 

10 support staff, with room to grow. In total, there are over 

100 BDO staff in Red Deer, Lacombe, Rimbey and Didsbury to 

serve BDO’s Central Albertan clients. BDO also has offices in 

Edmonton, Calgary, Lethbridge and Grande Prairie. 

24 

Can’t say enough … 

Can’t say enough … 

Both my children participated in the 

cognitive Both my children training participated program with in significant 

the 

improvement cognitive training in all program areas of with learning. significant 

improvement in all areas of learning. 

We highly recommend the processing and 

cognitive We highly enhancement recommend the program. processing and 

cognitive enhancement program. 

Pauline - Red Deer 

Pauline - Red Deer 

To schedule a free 

learning evaluation call: 

403.342.8828 


chuckwagonchampionship 

Got your eye on a wagon? 

The race is on and that wagon you see rounding corner number 

four and heading down the grandstand stretch is actually a 

marketing opportunity disguised as a pony chuckwagon. 

This year, the Red Deer Chuckwagon Championship will be 

held August 13 - 16, 2009 at Westerner Park. More than 20,000 

people are expected to fill the grandstand over the four-day 

event. Additionally, the event attracts sponsors and people 

from the chuckwagon community from all across Western 

Canada. 

Sponsorship opportunities abound – there are heats, events, 

equipment and a variety of locations around the venue that 

offer prospects to enhance a business brand, generate quality 

sale leads; gain a valuable presence with a niche target 

audience and just generally be seen as a supporter of this 

exciting heritage sport. 

For 2009, the Red Deer Chuckwagon Committee is looking 

for sponsorships ranging from $200 - $15,000 or more. The 

various sponsorships needed include Copper, Bronze, Silver, 

Gold, Platinum, Clean Drive Award, Wheels on Fire Award, nine 

Heat Sponsorships, Added Prize Money, Tarp Sponsorship, 

Silent Auction Prizes and Entertainment Sponsorships. 

To learn more about the Red Deer Chuckwagon Championship, 

please contact Brad Smith or Carmen Stone, Red Deer 

Chuckwagon Committee, World Professional Chuckwagon 

Association. Phone: 403 846 5919. 

Old Mill 

Custom T Shirt Ltd. 

Screen Printing 

Imprintable Corporate & Sportswear 

Glasswear & Promotionals 

Ph 403 346-3780 Fax 403 341-4862 

Email omscreenpt@shaw.ca 

5028 Gaetz Ave. Red Deer AB T4N 4B1 

s a d o n a 

Makers of fine custom cabinetry & Furniture 

Residential Fine Furniture Commercial Special Designs 

Visit our website to get your first impression at WWW.SADONA.CA 


farmandacreage 

There was plenty to see and do at the Farm & Acreage Show in March. In addition to seminars on solar energy, a showcase of RVs by 

Lacombe RV and a toy show, there were exhibits from all across the leisure and rural living spectrum. 

This November, Agri-Trade will, for the 26th year, deliver a 

world-class exposition to participants. Space went quickly 

for the popular show with indoor space filled shortly after 

registration officially opened. Outdoor space has sold quickly, 

promising a very successful show and demonstrating that the 

economic downturn hasn’t impacted the marketing of the ag 

industry, as it has many other sectors. 

Agri-Trade is on pace to set new records for exhibitors and has 

the potential to attract more attendees than past shows as 

well. 

This year’s Agri-Trade follows an extremely successful 25th 

Anniversary show with more than 30 charter exhibitors – 

companies that had exhibited at every show since Agri-Trade’s 

debut in 1984. That figure is almost a quarter of the exhibitors 

from the original show. 

In March, blizzard conditions chilled the attendance at the 

Farm & Acreage Show, part of the Red Deer Home & Garden 

Show. It was the second year for that event and while raw 

numbers were down, several exhibitors commented that they 

believed the contacts they made were of a higher quality. 

One of the show’s highlights was a series of sessions by Sundog 

Solar, demonstrating solar energy solutions. The sessions drew 

significant participants and very few left before the end of the 

presentation. 

In May, the North American Farm Show Council held its annual 

general meeting in Red Deer, attracting members from New 

York Farm Show, Canada’s Outdoor Show (Ontario), Ag Progress 

Days (Pennsylvania), Power Show Ohio, Western Farm Show 

(Missouri), International Plowing Match (Ontario), Spokane Ag 

Expo (Washington), Midwest Ag Expo (Illinois), Farm Science 

Review (Ohio), as well as Agri-Trade. 

26 

Attendees toured the Westerner Park facilities and enjoyed an 

evening reception there, before digging into a busy agenda 

with meetings at the Capri Centre the next day. The three day 

conference included a presentation on Ag Innovation Awards 

by David Kaun that aroused interest among delegates. 

Capture Technologies of Towota, New Jersey revealed some 

amazing and cost efficient technology on bar coding and 

qualifying attendees. Christopher Havens, Chief Technology 

Officer and Stephen McWilliams, Vice President of Sales 

showed how attendees can be VIPed at any show using bar 

code information established prior to a show or event. 

Basically, they take information supplied to them by the event 

and using a system of sophisticated bar code applications, 

classify and identify the attendee at the event. When he 

or she enters the facility they simply use a pre-issued ID 

badge at any participating exhibitor location to register to 

receive information, machinery quotes or service and parts 

information. The demographic information established in this 

manner becomes a very powerful marketing tool for event 

managers promoting certain unique qualities of the event 

that will appeal to a certain type of exhibitor. 

The following day, delegates traveled to the Reynolds 

Alberta Museum and were duly impressed with the quality 

of the displays and the colourful depiction of the heritage 

of agriculture. Following the tour, the delegates enjoyed an 

evening reception at the Capri Centre, hosted by Agri-Trade. 

The conference wrapped up May 21, with a discussion of 

membership issues and the naming of future NAFSC AGM 

sites, in Austin, Texas next year, followed by Charlotte, North 

Carolina and Spokane, Washington. 


alookback 

The highlight of the Ambassadors Luncheon on March 4 was a presentation 

by Bev Latter, Manager of Strategic Initiatives and Planning Employment 

Connections, on the Aboriginal talent pool that is available within the Red 

Deer area. Businesses & organizations collaborate with Aboriginal Agencies to 

facilitate programs that resulted in successful hiring. Forty people attended. 

There was a great turnout again at the Red Deer Legion on April 28 for the Business 

After Hours. More than 175 enjoyed an excellent networking event and sumptuous 

hors d’oeuvres. 

Our February 24 Business After Hours was hosted by North Hill Inn, with 175 

in attendance. The buffet included a great array of exotic foods, including 

alligator. 

It was a small crowd, but all 25 people attending the Mentoring Breakfast 

benefited from the presentation by Cabel McElderry, of One-to-1 Fitness. 

He presented information on understanding posture and how it affects your 

daily life and the anatomy of everyday aches and pains. 

There were 225 curious attendees at the much anticipated Business After Hours 

hosted by Masterpiece Inglewood on March 31. Great food and tours of the new 

assisted living facility was their reward. 


More than fifty new members came to the Black Knight Inn on March 12 to hear 

representatives from TD Bank, Slate Insurance and Clarke Insurance describe some 

of the benefits of Chamber membership. 

Chamber staff were saddened by the untimely passing last month 

of stalwart newsman, Lorne Starko, centre. Lorne, shown here 

interviewing Chamber President Mike Axworthy, with media 

colleague Harley Richards, regularly covered Chamber events since 

arriving in Red Deer in 1981. He was 57. 

Rick Tofani explained to sixty attendees how entrepreneurs and companies 

can develop and link up with new and exciting resources in Central Alberta to 

test, develop, protect, finance and move a new concept product to the market, 

in his presentation at the April 1 Ambassadors Luncheon at Red Deer Lodge. 

Todd Hirsch, Senior Economist, ATB Financial, enlightened a crowd of 110 

on March 18 at the Black Knight Inn. The Speakers Series Luncheon event 

focused on the economic implications for Canada, for Alberta, and for 

commodity prices of the global financial meltdown. 

First Red Deer Place rises above the Cenotaph on Ross Street. The 

new office tower represents the work of many Chamber member 

businesses. 


DAY 78 … mark your calendars! YOU’RE INVITED 

After 22 years…history repeats itself! 

On January 15, 2010, we will host the Olympic Torch. In 1988, 

citizens and businesses rallied and welcomed the universal icon 

and we have the opportunity to do it all over again. 

Last Fall, when the Vancouver Olympic Committee (VANOC) 

2010 asked The City of Red Deer to host one of nearly 200 

Torch Relay community celebrations across our Nation, we 

graciously accepted. So, on Day 78 of a 106-day journey across 

Canada, the Torch will arrive in Red Deer. 

We have about 40 volunteers planning a fun, free and 

interactive event to celebrate: the Torch; the Olympics; our 

Olympians; our vibrant culture; our community spirit and 

pride. Event details will be announced as plans progress 

throughout the year. Along with national event sponsors: RBC 

and Coca Cola, we encourage you to bring the Torch Relay to 

life in your business: 

E n c o u r a g e y o u r 

employees and families 

to be a torchbearer: 

d e a d l i n e to s i gn 

up: July 15, 2009: 

www.carr ythetorch. 

com 

Sign up to be a volunteer: www.reddeer.ca 

Don’t know how to get involved? Feel free to contact me at 

403.343.0551 

“We have a vision of creating an eclectic winter village 

atmosphere. It’s a free event and everyone is invited”. 

Lyn Radford, Chair, Olympic Torch Relay Red Deer Task Force 

Book your space now in the 2009-2010 Membership Calendar and Directory! 

Choose from 3 Options! 

u 1 

2 

3 

Calendar Section: 

Calendar Section advertisements are vertical ‘banner style’ ads that flow 

down the right side of each month. All Calendar Section ads include full 

process colour. You select the month to showcase your company! 

2 months - $899.00 The two month price includes your display ad plus one 

listing on the calendar of your company’s anniversary date ($30.00 value!) 

and your company name in reverse text in the directory section ($25.00 

value!) to easily identify your company as a major supporter. 

1 month - $499.00 The one month price includes your display ad plus your 

company name in reverse text in the directory section ($25.00 value!) to 

easily identify your company as a major supporter. 

Directory Section: 

Your business card sized display ad will appear as close to your company 

listing as possible. Just $150.00 

Lyn Radford, Chair, Olympic Torch Relay Red Deer Task Force and Mayor 

Morris Flewwelling plant flowers in a bed at City Hall Park on May 26. The 

flowers will spell out "With glowing hearts", the theme of the Torch Relay. 

This beautiful desk calendar, proudly displayed by more than 950 Red Deer Chamber member businesses, 

contains a full membership roster and all important Chamber event dates. Don’t be disappointed - order today! 

To reserve your space or for more information, contact Rick More 403-347-4491 rmore@reddeerchamber.com 


internationalchamberofcommerce 

A majority of chambers registered increases in their 

membership during the 2009 first quarter according to a 

survey by the ICC World Chambers Federation (WCF). 

WCF’s Chamber CEO Survey received responses from key 

metropolitan chambers, regional and national chambers, both 

public and private law structures, from 60 countries. 

Membership increased by an average 5.8%, the survey said, as 

a result of the rise in the number of people seeking advice on 

starting their own business. The report linked the rise in the 

number of persons seeking to set out on their own to the sharp 

rise in unemployment resulting from the global recession. 

“New Chamber membership in Red Deer is growing rapidly 

with March showing a record month, this all in spite of the 

economic downturn. 

In 2007 and first period of 2008, businesses had little time 

to fine tune. With labor shortage and a fast paced economy 

they were quickly reacting to the furor that came at them. 

Now business has the opportunity to get back to basics and 

structure around networking and cost saving benefits that the 

Chamber offers” Rick More, Manager, Member Services and 

Community Relations at the Red Deer Chamber, said. 

The survey also found that 63% of the chambers responding 

reported an increase in the number of companies seeking 

assistance during the economic crisis, with only 12% of 

chambers reporting a decline in company requests for aid. 

“In light of this crisis, companies are turning to chambers for 

assistance and direction,” one respondent from Serbia said. 

Most of the inquiries received from companies concerned 

information about starting a new business, available 

government grants and loan programs, educational services 

offered by chambers, and requests for legal advice. 

“The study proves that in this time of crisis the services offered 

by chambers around the world are more necessary than 

ever,” remarked Rona Yircali, President of the World Chambers 

Federation. “Chambers have successfully innovated so as to 

better serve their clients, and this is reflected in the overall 

increase in membership.” 

The study also indicated an important increase in their 

advocacy role and input in shaping government policy, during 

the 2009 first quarter compared with previous periods. 

“In response to their business communities’ concerns, 

chambers have expressed that they have better, more proactive 

and reciprocal relationships with their government’s 

policy decision makers,” the report said. “Local, regional and 

30 

national policy makers are consulting chambers not only in 

areas such as labour, tax, education and trade policy, but also 

data gathering, studies and other administrative work linked 

to the current challenges within their economies.” 

Reflecting the drop in global trade, chambers reported an 

18% decline in requests for trade facilitation services such as 

the ATA Carnet and certificates of origin. But there were also 

positive results in this area, with some countries, including 

Lebanon, the United Kingdom and New Zealand, reporting a 

10% percent increase in demand for these products. 

But the recession has affected some chamber operations, the 

survey found. Most chambers have experienced a decrease in 

advertising revenue for chamber magazines as well as a strong 

decline in corporate sponsorship. 63% of the chambers have 

adjusted their budgets, essentially through reductions in staff, 

travel and other operational expenses. 

Nevertheless, some members surveyed see a silver lining amid 

the gloom of the current economic climate. “We think this 

crisis is a great opportunity to improve the chambers image 

among businessmen,” a respondent from Mexico said. 

-Localized from International Chamber of Commerce (http:// 

www.iccwbo.org/iccdacig/index.html) 

Ernie Cebiliak composed a song for job seekers at this Spring's 

Mature Worker Forum, and attendees registered their approval. 

The Chamber partnered on the Forum, designed to assist mature 

workers to return to the workplace and help employers find quality 

employees. 


got the point. 

get the point 

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Trade Show 

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Web Development 





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We Mean Business - Red Deer Chamber of Commerce

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