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M a y 7 , 2 0 2 6

P r e s e n t e d b y

JENNIFER LUDWIG

PresidentoftheBrandonChamberof Commerce

Welcome,andthankyouforattending the 143rd Annual Chamber Business Achievement Awards Gala. Each year, the Brandon Chamber recognizes businesses and entrepreneurs who show resilience, determination, and excellence.

Tonight, we celebrate their hard work and the impact they make in our community.Congratulationstoallnomineesandrecipients—thisisyournight. Enjoyit!

“What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of differenceyouwanttomake.”–JaneGoodall

CURTIS HULLICK

GeneralManagerof

TheBrandonChamberofCommerce

Goodevening,OnbehalfoftheBrandon Chamber of Commerce, welcome to the 143rd Business Achievement Awards Gala. Tonight, under the theme “It’s a Jungle out There,” we recognize the resilience, leadership, and determination it takes to succeed in today’s business landscape.

Thankyouforyourcontinuedsupportandfortheroleyouplayinstrengthening our community. Congratulations to this year’s finalists and recipients enjoy the eveningandstaysafe.Cheers!

LYNDSAY SEAFOOT

CPHR,FounderandCEOof CurbridgeGroup

Lyndsay is the Founder and CEO of Curbridge Group, a collection of innovative, tech-driven companies focused on delivering modern and effective HR solutions. She launched Curbridge, an HR consultancy,in2020,followedbyStandOut Staff in 2023, a digital resume builder that createswebpageresumesforusers.

She launched Curbridge, an HR consultancy, in 2020, followed by Stand Out Staff in 2023, a digital resume builder that creates webpage resumes for users. In 2025, she and her team introduced Directors Desk, an HR platform transforming the child care sector. Lyndsay is known for her forward-thinking approach to HRandthestrongvaluessheproudlyattributestohergrandparents’legacy.

PALATE CLEANSER

BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD

PREVIOUS RECIPIENTS

F i n a l i s t s

RON SHA

Ron has proudly called Brandon home since 2009 and is deeply committed to his community He has been actively involved in amateur sports, coaching with the North Winnipeg Nomads football program, Brandon youth soccer, and Crocus High School football teams. Ron has also supported newcomers as a Settlement Partner with Westman Immigrant Services.

He currently serves in Corporation and the experience in retail management, B2B sales, and business ownership, including Don’s Photo and Sears Canada, Ron now works as a Business Account Manager with RBC, where he continues to support community initiatives across the Westman region.

ANDREA EPP

catedcommunityvolunteer eganherlegalcareerand rimeStoppersboards.What tytogivebackquickly itment,drivenbyherbelief everpossible Shehas dleadershiptonumerous gtheBrandonRegional ,BrandonAreaCommunity BarAssociation,Western on,HabitatforHumanity ee,andtheBrandon e.

ShealsosupportedtheTraditionalChristmasDinnerforsevenyearsandcontinuestoserveon theCrimeStoppersboard.SincejoiningtheHelpingHandsboardin2020,Andreahasplayeda key role in advancing its mission and became Chair in 2023, advocating for increased support tomeetgrowingcommunityneeds

F i l i t TAMRA RAP

Tamra brings more than 45 ye experience in roles includ College Instructor, Directo Finance Operations Manager committed to strengthenin through leadership, volu mentorship Tamra activ community engagement by se and committees and mentoring careers and governance roles. She currently serves with the Assiniboine College Foundation, Westman Immigrant Services, Westman Communications Group, and several local initiatives in Minnedosa and the Valley Life community. As an educator, she co-founded the or students, and as Director of munity-based training across iatives including CIBC Run for

JULIA TEICHROEB

Julia is Co-Founder of Just Call Joe Inspections and JCJ Residential Services, and an Instructor at Assiniboine College. She is deeply committed to community development, having re-established Alexander Spring Sports and supporting local programs through volunteerism and sponsorship. Julia serves on the boards of the Alexander Community Events Committee, Assiniboine College Alumni Association, and Souris Chamber of Commerce.

A strong advocate for collaborative, community-focused leadership, she is passionate about helping others build successful foundations A proud mother of two, Julia has received multiple leadership awards since 2021, reflecting her dedication to the communities she serves.

HEATHER THO

Heather is the founder and p Sentinel Safety Services, an oc health and safety consulting serving western Manitoba sinc is an executive board membe Construction Association Manitoba, serves on a sch council, and works as an in auditor for both CSAM and MA

Heather’s leadership in workplace safety earned her recognition as a 2024 YWCA Women of Distinction nominee in Science, Trades, and Technology, and the recipient of CARM’s Carla Milne Outstanding Woman in the Industry Award. She is passionate about promoting both physical and psychological safety across industries.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Cassandra guided her team through industry challenges and launched Moonlit Canopy in 2021, which continues to support regional tourism. She is a dedicated leader committed to building sustainable businesses and supporting economic growth in Manitoba.

CHRIS HU

Chris is the Student Succe the Peters School of Assiniboine College an President of both University Foundation Association. He is active leadership, contributing t Chamber of Comme Development Committe heritage organizations.

A 16-year Army Reserve veteran with the 26th Field Artillery Regiment, Chris deployed to Ukraine in 2017 and received a Canadian Joint Operations Command commendation. He also teaches international relations part-time at BU and is a defence commentator. Chris is currently pursuing a PhD in War Studies and holds graduate and honours degrees from the University of Manitoba and Brandon University.

He also volunteers with Habitat for Humanity and Helping Hands, helping coordinate over 65 Christmas hampers. In addition, Kyle serves as a volunteer firefighter and was deployed during the 2025 Northern Manitoba wildfires, where his team received the Order of the Buffalo Hunt.

COURTNEY MATIE

Courtney is a Talent Acquisition with expertise in recruitment, development, and employee en overseeing hiring across 18 lo Manitoba and Saskatchewan. She i to supporting employees throug careers, including work per apprenticeship pathways, and also Assiniboine College.

Courtney is actively involved in the community, serving as a Board Director for the Brandon Career Symposium and Westman Immigrant Services, and contributing to the Brandon Chamber’s Workforce Alignment Committee. She holds a Registered working toward her CPHR and RCIC velopment.

husband, Chris. With over 15 years of rience in accounting and business ership, Lindsey brings a practical, egic approach to supporting preneurs at all stages of growth.

She is passionate about helping business owners gain clarity in their finances, make informed decisions, and build stronger, more resilient organizations. In addition to her professional work, Lindsey is committed to entrepreneurship and mentorship within her community, supporting others as they navigate business challenges and opportunities.

farm near wresidesin nearly four m Services, ership roles utiveOfficer. ur-Gro has ions and a nal serving thening its

Dale is also actively involved in industry and community leadership He currently serves as Secretary of the Brandon Area Community Foundation and on the board of Nutrients for Life Canada, and contributes to Fertilizer Canada’s Retail Advisory Council. His ongoing involvement reflects a strong commitment to advancing both the agricultural sector and the broader business community.

LIFETIME BUSINESS BUILDER ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

Bob Mazer

Founder, President and CEO, Mazergroup

Bob Mazer was a visionary business leader and respected figure in Canada’s agricultural industry. Beginning his career at 17, he joined the family dealership in 1969 and helped grow it into Mazergroup, now the largest privately owned New Holland dealer network in North America, with 18 locations across Manitoba and Saskatchewan.

Guided by a commitment to customer service, people, and community, Bob built a lasting legacy recognized with honors including Brandon’s Businessperson of the Year and induction into the Farm Equipment Dealership Hall of Fame. In 2024, Mazergroup was named Dealership of the Year, reflecting his enduring impact.

2007 Jim Campbell

2008 Thomas Breneman

2009 C.O. Meighen

Bob and his wife Patti were also dedicated community supporters, contributing to initiatives that enhance quality of life across Westman and Manitoba.

2010 Judy Collyer

F i n a l i s t s

SECTION 6 BREWING CO.

Sidney and Laryssa are the husband and wife team behind Section 6 Brewing Co., a locally owned craft brewery established in Brandon in 2022. As hands on owner operators, they have built the business from the ground up, leading all aspects from brewing and operations to customer experience and brand development With a focus on small batch, high quality beer and a welcoming, community driven taproom, they have created a space that feels both local and inclusive

Through collaboration with other businesses, artists, and community groups, Section 6 Brewing Co. continues to grow while staying rooted in connection, creativity, and the spirit of Westman.

COMPASS COACH LINES

David and Jen are the founders of Compass Coach Lines, a locally owned business built on reliability, respect, and people first values. Starting with just two units and a small team, they have grown the company to a fleet of eight and a dedicated team of 20 employees. Through hands on leadership, continuous learning, and a strong commitment to their vision, they have steadily expanded while maintaining a focus on high quality service and strong relationships with staff, clients, and the community.

Their intentional approach to growth, combined with a supportive and positive workplace culture, continues to drive the ongoing success of Compass Coach Lines.

F i n a l i s t s

THE BACKYARD ON ABERDEEN

Aida is the owner of The Backyard on Aberdeen, a full service event venue and catering business built from her passion for food, hospitality, and bringing people together. Since launching in 2020, she has grown the business from a catering operation into a versatile venue offering indoor and outdoor event spaces, in house and off site catering, and full event décor services

With a focus on creating warm, memorable experiences for weddings, celebrations, and community gatherings, Aida has built a space that reflects both quality and care. The Backyard on Aberdeen continues to grow as a place where meaningful moments are shared and lasting memories are made.

LIGHTHOUSE WELLNESS CENTRE

Lighthouse Wellness Centre is a locally owned counselling practice founded by Luanne Rae and Jenny Steele, dedicated to supporting individuals, children, and families across the Westman region. Since opening in 2021, the clinic has grown to include a team of skilled practitioners offering a range of services, including specialized support for young children navigating challenges such as grief, family change, and emotional well being Built from a shared vision to create a warm, welcoming space that feels safe and supportive, Lighthouse focuses on helping clients build resilience and lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Grounded in compassion, integrity, and strong relationships, the clinic continues to expand access to meaningful, client centred mental health care in the community

UNIVERSAL DOORS & UNIVERSAL TRUCK ACCESSORIES

Jon is the owner of Universal Doors and Universal Truck Accessories, proudly continuing a family business established in 1985. Having grown up in the business alongside his dad, Jon brings a deep understanding of its values, with a strong focus on trust, quality, and building lasting relationships within the community. Under his leadership, the company has continued to grow, expanding its services while maintaining a commitment to reliable, high quality workmanship.

Supported by a skilled and dedicated team, Universal Doors and Universal Truck Accessories combine decades of experience with a collaborative, customer focused approach. Together, they provide professional service across both residential and commercial projects, while continuing to evolve and innovate to meet the needs of their customers

REESOR’S JEWELLERY

Established in 1882, Reesor’s Jewellery is a full service, locally trusted jewellery store known for its commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and exceptional customer care. Owned by Jaye Duffield, the business continues to build on its long-standing legacy while adapting to meet the needs of a modern and evolving market. Through a focus on innovation, strong customer relationships, and a dedication to continuous improvement, Reesor’s has remained a staple in the community for over a century.

Offering services such as custom design, repairs, and in house appraisals, the business is rooted in integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to delivering a personalized and high quality experience.

F i n a l i s t s

CANADIAN TIRE

Brandon Canadian Tire, led by Owner and Dealer Glenn Butt, has proudly served the community for over 50 years as a trusted retailer and community partner. With a strong focus on customer service, innovation, and operational excellence, the business continues to evolve to meet the needs of customers across Brandon and Westman. Offering a wide range of products and services, the store has become a reliable destination for everyday life

Driven by a commitment to its people and community, Brandon Canadian Tire fosters a culture of teamwork and continuous improvement while supporting local initiatives and contributing to the region’s ongoing growth and success.

SOBEYS WEST END

Sobeys West End is committed to making a meaningful impact in the Brandon and Westman community through ongoing support, partnerships, and charitable initiatives. Through fundraising campaigns, community BBQs, and in store efforts, the team supports a wide range of local organizations and causes Sobeys West End actively engages staff and volunteers in initiatives like Fill the Bus campaigns and holiday food drives, while also supporting local events and bursaries.

The team has supported organizations such as Samaritan House, Dream Factory, Special Olympics, and local school programs, contributing to food security, youth initiatives, and community events. With a strong focus on giving back, their efforts continue to make a meaningful impact by strengthening the community and enhancing quality of life across the region.

F

WHEAT CITY GOLF COURSE

Wheat City Golf Course, led by CPGA Professional David Scinocca, is a premier 18 hole golf destination in Brandon, offering a high quality and accessible golf experience for players of all skill levels. Since taking over management in 2020, the team has transformed the course into one of Western Manitoba’s top golf facilities, significantly increasing play and enhancing overall course conditions and customer experience.

With a strong focus on service, continuous improvement, and community engagement, Wheat City Golf Course has become a hub for local tournaments, events, and everyday play Supported by a dedicated and passionate team, the organization continues to evolve while delivering a memorable golf experience and contributing to the region’s recreational and economic growth.

PROGRESSIVE WESTMAN

Progressive Westman, led by Spencer Day, is a locally owned company providing professional cleaning solutions and facility support services to businesses across Brandon and the Westman region. Since 2009, the company has grown into a trusted partner, offering services including matting and uniform rentals, sanitation supplies, and commercial cleaning equipment, all focused on keeping businesses clean, safe, and operating efficiently.

With strong local roots and a dedicated team, Progressive Westman prides itself on reliable service, transparent pricing, and tailored solutions. Through continuous improvement and a commitment to community, the company plays an important role in supporting local businesses and facilities.

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