Carlyle

Built For Life in Carlyle Ltd. is opening.  Jason Duhaime is the president of the fitness gym.  (Carlyle Observer, December 12, 2007)

Weyburn

Minard's Leisure World has been awarded Top Dealer Status in North America on the brand line, Travelaire/Kustom Koach.  This means Minard's had the highest volume of sales in the dealer network.  (Weyburn Review, December 26, 2007)

Radville

North American Lumber opened in its new location.  The new expanded facility will offer a larger selection of merchandise.  (Radville Star, December 20, 2007)

Southeast Saskatchewan

An active economy, demand for workers, and the resulting migration of people to the southeast has created a housing shortage in many towns as well as the cities.  Several communities are looking at developing new subdivisions to accommodate the influx of people.  (Weyburn Review, December 26, 2007, January 2, 2008 and January 9, 2008; Regina Leader-Post, January 8, 2008; Estevan Mercury, January 9, 2008)

Assiniboia

Jackson and Jill Liu, formerly of Calgary, have purchased the Franklin Hotel in Assiniboia.  (Assiniboia Times, December 24, 2007)

Moose Jaw

Moose Jaw's rental vacancy rate is the lowest it has been in twenty years.  The average cost to rent in the city is also up from $499 a year ago to $522.  (Moose Jaw Times Herald, December 14, 2007)

In a recap of the year, the sale of building permits in Moose Jaw skyrocketed in 2007.  A migration of people to Saskatchewan and a miscalculation at city hall on available lots left the city with hardly any residential building lots to sell by the end of the year.  As well homeowners enjoyed a 32% increase in the value of their home.  (Moose Jaw Times Herald, January 2, 2008)

The former winery in Moose Jaw has been sold to three investors and is being prepared to be developed into a specialty high end flour mill that would ship product by air cargo to Europe.  (Moose Jaw Times Herald, January 7, 2008)

Moose Jaw had an increase of approximately 48% in the number of people visiting the Tourist Information Centre last year and it is believed the total number of visitors to Moose Jaw in 2007 is over 100,000.  (http://www.discovermoosejaw.com/)

Battleford

A potential oil related manufacturing plant is one step closer to reality.  Mayor Chris Odishaw met with representatives of the company from Lethbridge and Calgary.  The plant could employ 50 people and may be built during 2008.  (Powerflyers Daily News, January 9, 2008)

Battleford Main Street has begun its revitalization process.  The plan is to reface the buildings along Main Street to reflect the history of the town and carry out the theme of the court house and post office.  (News Optimist, January 9, 2008)

Cut Knife

The Cargill Elevator at Cut Knife will close December 31^st.  Services will be transferred to other locations at North Battleford, Unity, and Vermillion.  (CJNB Radio, North Battleford, December 28, 2007)

Lloydminster

Lloydminster Hospital and Dr. Cooke Extended Care Facility may soon see improvements.  Funding is the main hurdle.  Phase One is projected at $137.5 million and Phase Two could cost anywhere from $21.4 million to $88.5 million.  (Meridian Booster, December 10, 2007)

Meadow Lake

The Meadow Lake Business Excellence Awards are scheduled for mid-February.  Nominations are currently being accepted.  (Northern Pride, January 8, 2008)

North Battleford

City Council has presented a plan to spend $65.8 million over the next 5 years including $10.5 million in projects to be undertaken in 2008.  The goal is to continue building North Battleford as a regional centre as well as to improve quality of life for residents.  The two biggest projects will be the new multipurpose facility estimated at $42 million scheduled for 2009 and replacing a major storm sewer trunk.  Also, 56 new residential lots will be developed.  (Powerflyers Daily News, December 19, 2007)

North Battleford has a vacancy rate of 0.6% the second lowest of Saskatchewan's 9 largest cities.  Only Lloydminster has a lower vacancy rate.  (News Optimist, December 19, 2007)

Early in the New Year, 20 additional Chinese immigrant workers are expected to arrive in the Battlefords to begin work at Maple Leaf Foods.  They will join the approximately 40 Chinese immigrant workers already employed by Maple Leaf.  (Powerflyers Daily News, December 20, 2007)

The Bus Depot will relocate and open at its new location effective January 16, 2008.  (News Optimist, January 2, 2008)

A total of 63 building permits totalling $9,327,999 were issued in North Battleford in 2007.  This is up from just over $4 million issued in 2006.  The increase is related to the increased number of new home construction.  (Powerflyers Daily News, January 8, 2008)

Wilkie

Commercial winner of the winter Take A BOW program was Western Auto Body owned by Tony and Myrna Sander.  (Wilkie Press, January 7, 2008)

On December 20^th representatives of the Federal and Provincial governments announced funding of $3.4 million through the Canada-Saskatchewan Northern Development Agreement to invest in skills delivery for two programs.  The first program will be delivered by the Saskatchewan Tourism Education Council and will train up to 20 students in each of eight northern communities in the tourism industry.  The programs will be delivered in Beauval, Creighton, Ile-a-la-Crosse, La Ronge, Pinehouse Lake, Stony Rapids, La Loche, and Wollaston Lake.  The second program to receive funding is aimed at preparing 150 northerners, 15 students over 10 sessions, to work on road construction and will be delivered by Northlands College.  The students will be trained to journey levels.  (The La Ronge Northerner, January 7, 2008)

Birch Hills

Brian and Bev Stobbs have opened Birch Hills Funeral Home.  They also own and operate Northern Funeral Service Ltd. at Shellbrook.  (The Post Gazette, December 19, 2007 & January 2, 2008)

Hudson Bay

Maria's Sewing Basket will be closing this month after 10 years in business.  Owner Maria Dutkiwich will likely continue sewing from her home.  (Hudson Bay Post Review, January 9, 2008)

Melfort

Advantage Credit Union and Northgate Credit Union officially amalgamated the two credit unions on January 1, 2008.  Along with the amalgamation five new products were launched January 2, 2008.  They are an All in One Plan that allows customers to place their mortgage, chequing, savings, loans, and credit card into one plan; a Business Wave Plan, U.S. investor savings and low rate mortgage.  As well, there is a hooked to prime non-registered investment available and as a result of the amalgamation they have launched the property casualty company and a real estate company.  The amalgamated Credit Unions have branches in 17 locations.  (The Melfort Journal, January 8, 2008)

Porcupine Plain

An Alberta firm is building a 55-unit apartment building in the town of Porcupine Plain.  (Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, December 26, 2007)

Prince Albert

Eldstrom Insurance was renamed to Cornerstone Insurance on November 17^th.  The business has been established for 57 years, originally owned by Harry Stefaniuk then Lorne Eldstrom.  Tim Longworth and Don Delorme purchased the business in 2001.  In the past seven years it has grown from eight to twenty-four employees.  (Prince Albert Daily Herald, January 7, 2008).

As at the end of October 104 permits were sold for housing units, of which 95 were residential.  It was up 55 from 2006 but the same as the year prior.  They are expecting about 85 single-unit homes to be built this year and four multiple-unit buildings.  In 2009, they are planning on having upwards of 140 lots available for development.  They are also working on a condominium policy to deal with changing apartments into condominiums.  There were two converted last year and three are expected for early this year.  (Prince Albert Daily Herald, January 2, 2008)

At a special Prince Albert City Council meeting, councillors have awarded the tender for the proposed soccer field house to AODBT Architecture Interior Design Ltd. for a total base fee of $695,050.  An aggressive fundraising campaign to raise $3.5 million towards the project will begin in the New Year.  (Prince Albert Daily Herald, January 2, 2008)

Rob Simpson, owner and operator of Below Zero Welding, builds storage bins used in the making of biodiesel fuels.  He is currently making equipment to produce biofuels and by mid 2008 he is hoping to begin plans on a plant near Prince Albert.  He would like the plant to be operational by the end of next year.  He has sold his equipment to many countries worldwide but only four units have been sold in Canada.  (Prince Albert Daily Herald, December 31, 2007)

The Teacher's Corner store opened for business in Prince Albert in December.  The business is owned and operated by Mitch Guenette and his wife Angie Robillard.  They sell everything from bulletin boards to learning charts, stickers, learning games, and resource books.  Usually teachers would have to order resources and supplies from catalogues or travel to bigger centres such as Saskatoon and Edmonton to buy them.  (Prince Albert Daily Herald, December 24, 2007)

Breenan Bitz and Laura Littlechilds are the new owners of Ricky's All Day Grill.  The restaurant is located in the Cornerstone shopping area.  The licensed restaurant has a seating capacity of 122 and is equipped with five televisions.  Ricky's employs 25 staff, 10 of which are full-time. (Prince Albert Daily Herald, December 17, 2007)

Shellbrook

The Town of Shellbrook's former committee of the Business Improvement District (BID) was dissolved January 1^st by an order of Town Council to make room for a new Economic Development Committee (EDC).  The new committee, which will be made up of new and former members, will report directly to the Town.  The committee will have its first meeting later this year and will determine its mandate and direction as a direct arm of Town Council.  (The Shellbrook Chronicle, January 4, 2008)

Tisdale

December 31, 2007 was the final day where producers could purchase shares in ENSASK's latest share offering and if a minimum of $15 million could be garnered, the project would be given the green light to begin the construction phase of the proposed ethanol plant.  They did not reach their target, and are switching to a fallback plan involving a strategic investment partner.  The 104 million litre wheat ethanol plant located two miles east of Tisdale is still slated to be up and running in 2009.  (The Tisdale Recorder, January 2, 2008)

Fort Qu'Appelle

Loopy's Pizza is celebrating their 10^th anniversary.  (Fort Qu'Appelle Times, January 8, 2008)

Indian Head

Heartland Agro closed effective January 1, 2008.  (Indian Head - Wolseley News, January 8, 2008)

Highway 1 Towing celebrated its 1^st anniversary.  (Indian Head - Wolseley News, January 8, 2008)

Regina

Multiple award winning local restaurateurs and owners of the Willow on Wascana, Chef Moe Mathieu, Darren Carter, Greg Hanwell, James Taylor, Shaadie Musleh, and Dave Burke, will open the Beer Bros. Bakery & Cuisine on January 15^th.  The restaurant will be located at 1801 Scarth Street, the former Alfredo's location.  (The Downtowner, December 16 - 21, 2007)

The average rental rate for a two bedroom apartment in Regina increased by 6.7% per month in October 2006 compared with October of 2007.  (Regina Leader-Post, December 14, 2007)

The provincial government is preparing to request that groups offer up candidates to serve on the board of Enterprise Saskatchewan.  Fifteen of the largest sectors of the economy, including mining, oil and gas, forestry, and agriculture, will each have a committee of experts that will provide information and recommendations to the Enterprise Saskatchewan board.  (Regina Leader-Post, December 14, 2007)

Grade 12 students from Regina's Catholic and public schools, the Prairie Valley School Division, and Luther High School who are considering health-care careers attended the Pre Health Professions High School (PHP) Club at SIAST's Wascana Campus.  The pilot project was initiated in 2006 to interest students from southern Saskatchewan in nursing, medicine, and physical therapy, and has expanded the career options to include pharmacy.  (Regina Leader-Post, December 15, 2007)

Canadian Pups (an acronym for portable storage unit) is a temporary storage company that opened in Regina in May 2006.  Now that business is taking off, Canadian Pups is looking to expand across Canada.  (Regina Leader-Post, December 15, 2007)    

According to the Royal LePage 2008 market survey forecast, Regina's housing market is set to lead the country as the average price of housing is expected to rise by 15.4% in 2008.  A strong economy, an increase of in-migration and a decrease of out-migration are factors leading to the rise, according to the survey.  The price of the average house is expected to jump to $188,600 in 2008 from $163,500 in 2007.  (Regina Leader-Post, December 15, 2007)

After nearly 125 years of existence, Western Canada's oldest business club, the Assiniboia Club will close on December 31, 2007.  The board of directors unanimously voted to suspend operations of the club that was founded in 1882.  The expenses of maintaining the historical building and rising operating costs weighed in on the decision.  The new tenant for the upper two floors is PFM Capital, an investment fund management company, which is currently located at 1919 Rose Street.  (Regina Leader-Post, December 19, 2007)

Jonathan Ryan and Samantha Burnett, two University of Regina graduates, have become entrepreneurs with their purchase of PowerSports store located in east Regina.  PowerSports specializes in Bombardier Recreational products (BRP), such as Ski-Doos, Sea-Doos and Can-AM ATV's, along with BRP and FXR clothing.  (Regina Leader-Post, December 22, 2007)

Crews from Quorex Construction have begun erecting the steel structure for the new Sherwood Co-op on the corner of Albert Street and Avonhurst Drive.  The structure is located on the old Percival Ford site.  (Regina Leader-Post, December 28, 2007) 

The value of City of Regina building permits issued in 2007 totalled $337.7 million.  The 2007 total is a new record, breaking the old mark of $276.9 million set in 2006.  (Regina Leader-Post, January 4, 2008)

Farm Credit Canada placed seventh in the Top 10 employers in Canada.  (Regina Leader-Post, December 29, 2007)

Residential home sales records were shattered in the metropolitan Regina area in 2007, according to year-end numbers released by the Association of Regina Realtors.  The data indicates the dollar value of all homes sold exceeded the half billion dollar mark for the first time in history.  An all time high of 3,935 homes were sold last year, up 33.8% compared with 2006.  Average selling prices in December soared over the $200,000 mark for the first time in the city's history.  (Regina Leader-Post, January 3, 2008)

Construction is starting for a new 2,800 square metre (30,000 sq. ft.) building for Custom Truck Sales Inc. on the 500 block of Park Street.  (Regina Leader-Post, January 3, 2008)

The contract for the construction work for the new Rawlco Centre for Mother Baby Care in the General Hospital is expected to be awarded in mid-February with work to begin shortly after.  The funding for the project was increased to $20 million to cover the change in scope of the project and higher construction price tag.  The new centre is to include 36 new fully private maternity and newborn rooms, eight new labour and birth rooms and two new operating rooms.  The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit will have a new procedure room as well as 21 new infant care stations.  There will be additional space for specialized medical and surgical procedures.  The entire project is to be finalized in 2010. (Regina Leader-Post, January 8, 2008)

Work is expected to begin in February on the conversion of the old Capital Pontiac GM dealership building at 1350 Albert Street into the Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region's Emergency Medical Services command centre.  The Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region purchased the building for about $3 million and has budgeted another $1.5 million for renovation and retrofitting.  Renovations may be complete by October 2008.  (Regina Leader-Post, January 10, 2007)

According to CMHC, Regina had 1,398 housing unit starts in 2007, the highest level since 1986.  (Regina Leader-Post, January 10, 2008)

Semans

The former Semans Library/Credit Union building is undergoing renovations.  The building will become the permanent location of the Canada Post outlet.  (Last Mountain Times, January 8, 2008)

Wadena

Dan Zazula, owner of Wadena Corner Service, is celebrating 50 years in business.  (Wadena News, December 19, 2007) 

Florence Christianson and her daughter Carmen Christianson opened their business on Highway #35 in mid December.  Florence will use the new location primarily as an in town Re-Max office as well as an outlet for her travel business.  Carmen is fully trained to offer sugaring hair removal services.  The business is currently open three days per week.  (Wadena News, December 19, 2007)

Watrous

Effective January 1, 2008, Dr. Allison Bartel will take over the veterinary practice located at 707 4^th Avenue East.  (Watrous Manitou, December 17, 2007)

Aberdeen

The former curling rink site in Aberdeen is being filled by the construction of new homes.  (Country Press, December 12, 2007)

The RM of Aberdeen is considering three proposals for country residential developments.  All three are in the southwest corner of the RM, in the triangle formed by Highways 41 and 5.  (Country Press, December 12, 2007)

Beechy

Dale Wiens and his son Jeremy have invented the Remote Start and Auger Swing.  The Wiens' product is a time-saving, grain handling innovation that allows a trucker to start the tractor and move the swing arm under the semi-trailer right from the cab of the semi.  The invention was featured on the December 22^nd episode of the Prairie Farm Report.  (The Outlook, December 17, 2007)

Corman Park

A formal open house for the Corman Park Campus of the Ranch Ehrlo Society took place December 14^th.  Around 100 people were on hand for the event that included tours of the $4 million facility.  In time, up to 20 youths, male and female, 12 to 17 years of age who may have emotional, social, educational, personal or psychiatric problems of some type, will be housed at the treatment facility.  (Saskatchewan Valley News, January 3, 2008)

Dundurn

Dundurn town council has scaled back its annexation plans.  Originally, the town announced plans to annex 1,400 acres, aiming to limit residential development close to the town limits.  The annexed land has been reduced to approximately 150 acres due to solid interest from two development companies.  (Country Press, December 12, 2007)

Humboldt

The City of Humboldt has signed a deal with condominium developers Woodcreek Developments of Prince Albert.  The city sold the land of the old golf clubhouse location for $200,000 with several conditions to be met by the developer or the property will revert to the city.  (Humboldt Journal, January 2, 2008)

Rosthern

Construction on a new fire hall is scheduled to begin in 2008 and should be finished by 2009.  The fire hall will be located on three residential lots that the town purchased earlier this year on Highway 312.  (The Saskatchewan Valley News, December 12, 2007)

Saskatoon

The City of Saskatoon will not purchase the Barry Hotel due to new information that came to light after the completion of an environmental assessment.  The proposed sale agreement would have seen the historic 20^th Street hotel turned over to the city for demolition or redevelopment.  (Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, December 18, 2007)

The Saskatoon Airport Authority calculations show the millionth passenger of the year arrived on December 18^th.  This is the first time the local airport has reached that milestone.  (Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, December 18, 2007)

A second major book retailer is set to open in Saskatoon in 2008.  Indigo Books and Music Inc. will be competing with McNally Robinson Booksellers for a share of the Saskatoon market.  Information about where the new store will open has not been disclosed.  (Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, December 18, 2007)

Saskatoon-based software company Point2 Technologies Inc. has named Saul Klein as the new CEO.  The company, with more than 100 staff at offices in Saskatoon and Vancouver, recently underwent a major management shift.  Eight executive officers handed in their resignations on December 3^rd for personal reasons and differences pertaining to the company's direction.  (Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, December 19, 2007)

Saskatoon-based Federated Co-operatives Ltd. (FCL), the buying and distribution company that serves 275 retail co-operatives from Vancouver Island to Thunder Bay, saw its sales rise by $416 million in its most recent fiscal year.  As a result, FCL's net profit increased by $135 million from the previous year as it set a new earnings mark for the 16^th year in a row.  FCL saw revenues hit $5.4 billion in its latest fiscal year, which ended October 31^st.  A percentage of FCL's earnings each year are funnelled back to individual retail co-ops who buy from FCL in the form of a patronage refund.  (Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, December 20, 2007)

Great Western Brewing Co. has become Credit Union Centre's "major" beer sponsor for a period of seven years.  The official start date to the new arrangement is January 1^st with the deal carrying through to December 31, 2014.  (Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, December 21, 2007)

The launch of a Saskatoon company's flight information system for hotels has resulted in less airport time for guests with delayed travel plans.  Promoware Corp.'s Hotel Flight Information System technology that displays local airport flight information in hotel lobbies was released in November and is currently used in about a dozen hotels in North and South America.  The system is currently installed in Saskatoon's Hotel Senator and Heritage Inn.  (Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, December 26, 2007)

The past 12 months have been record-breaking for residential realtors in Saskatoon, with 4,446 homes sold, an average price 45% higher than 2006 and a total dollar volume topping $1 billion. According to year-end figures, $1,034,826,425 in residential property was sold in the city, a total residential dollar volume 88% higher than 2006's total of just over $550 million.  The average price of a home in the city reached $232,754, up 45% from 2006's average of $160,586.  (Saskatoon Star Phoenix, January 4, 2008)

The Sports on Tap sports bar will fill one-third of the old Emerald Casino site at Prairieland Park. The bar will incorporate both Cassio's Restaurant and simulcast off-track horse race betting which have stayed on at the site since the casino closed in August.  Renovations are estimated at $200,000 and the business will employ 30 to 35 people.  (Saskatoon Star Phoenix, January 4, 2008)

Mark MacLeod, the Regina business executive credited with turning around the fortunes of the provincial land titles Crown Corporation, has moved to Saskatoon to take over as president and CEO of Superior Cabinets.  (Saskatoon Star Phoenix, January 4, 2008)

About half of a $5 million upgrade to Marquis Downs will be paid for by the federal government with another $200,000 from the city.  The money will pay for a new horse and livestock barn to replace four aging stables that were recently demolished for a 20,000 sq. ft. multi-purpose livestock facility.  (Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, January 5, 2008)

Airline Hotels and Resorts Ltd. takes possession of 211 Fourth Ave. South in mid-January.  The building, better known as the long-time home of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan, sold in November at its listing price of $1.75 million.  (Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, January 5, 2008)

Bulldog Interactive Fitness, the eighth franchise and the first one in Western Canada, has opened an interactive fitness facility that is designed specifically for kids.  The fitness centre offers a variety of activities - exercise bikes hooked up to Sony Playstations, a Treadwall (rock climbing wall that moves), Dance Dance Revolution machines, EyeToys, Wii games, and resistance circuit machines designed specifically for youth and a gym.  (Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, January 5, 2008)

A non-stop flight from Saskatoon to Toronto has been added to WestJet's summer schedule. Starting May 18^th, people will be able to travel to and from Canada's largest city with one-way fares starting at $149, not including other fees and charges.  (Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, January 11, 2008)

New Businesses:  Wheatfield's Café, Owner: Krista Dreger; The Clubhouse Indoor Golf Centre, Owners: Chris Harris and Gary Baba.  (Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, December 29, 2007)

Wakaw

Wakaw Fine Foods has undergone a name change and will now be known as Wakaw Hometown Foods. The owners, Maurice and Sandi Draude, say that being associated with a new wholesaler will bring better quality products, a better selection, and better prices for their customers.  (The Wakaw Recorder, January 9, 2008)

Consul

The sale of the $12 million carbon dioxide plant near Consul is final.  The intact plant lacking only the CO₂ storage units was sold to some of the original creditors who partnered with Interex Oilfield Services.  The sale price was unknown at press time.  (Maple Creek News, December 20, 2007)

Eastend

Terry Haggart, the long-time mayor of Eastend, is stepping down from town council.  She also served as the chairperson of the Horseshoe Tourism Region and the Cypress Hills Regional Economic Development Association and worked on numerous other boards and committees.  (Shaunavon Standard, December 18, 2007)

Eston

The Eston Chamber of Commerce faces an uncertain future in 2008 since no one has yet declared interest in leading the community business group.  The Chamber's unofficial president Margaret Olorenshaw stated two months ago that she plans to step down from her duties at the end of December.  (The Eston Press Review, December 18, 2007)

Kindersley

A bylaw covering a proposal that the town borrow $12.5 million to help pay for upgrades to Kindersley's water system should get first reading at council's meeting on December 14^th.  (The Clarion, December 12, 2007)

From now on a group of seven people, four of them municipal officials, will advise Kindersley council on local developments.  Council gave second and third readings during its December 17^th meeting to a bylaw re-establishing the Municipal Planning Commission.  The commission will suggest options covering such areas as green space, dedicated or municipal reserve lands, and guidelines for zoning, tax exemptions, tax incentives, municipal property prices, and public inspection of things like garages, sidewalks, curbs, and decks.  (The Clarion, January 2, 2008)

Kindersley businesses have an opportunity to honour their counterparts with the 2007 KBEX Awards.  All five awards will be presented during the Chamber of Commerce's annual meeting and banquet, February 13^th at the Kindersley Inn.  (The Clarion, January 2, 2008)

Leader

The Council for the Town of Leader held their last regular meeting on December 4^th.  Council authorized the engagement of Tri City Surveys to survey and prepare a plan for subdivision of the proposed development of five new residential lots fronting 8^th Street West on the Gill property.  (Leader News, January 2, 2008)

Seniors in Leader are examining one of about 40 information packages on a project proposed as a transition stage between owning and maintaining their single-family homes, and moving into a personal care home.  The life-lease project, supported by resolutions of Leader council and that of the Rural Municipality of Happyland, would involve building six, ground-floor residential units on the 100-block of First Street West.  (West Central Crossroads, January 7, 2008)

Maple Creek

The Maple Creek Advance Times and the Maple Creek News will formally merge effective January 22^nd and will then be known as the Maple Creek News-Times.  (Maple Creek Advance Times, January 1, 2008)

Following the successful completion and full occupancy of Creekside Estates, the board of directors is considering building another life-lease condominium for seniors.  The board of Creekside Estates is trying to ascertain interest in building 10 new suites on the same property as the initial 14, but require at least two-thirds of the suites to be spoken for before seeking financing for the project.  (Maple Creek Advance Times, January 1, 2008)

The Town of Maple Creek has received the proposed lay-outs for two potential new residential subdivisions.  The town has experienced tremendous growth in the past year.  Nearly 300 properties changed hands and all existing town lots were sold in the span of a month in the summer of 2007 as demand increased from people relocating to Maple Creek.  (Maple Creek Advance Times, January 1, 2008)

Len Wong's Maple Creek Thrifty Store is officially closing and the building at 38 Pacific Avenue has been sold to a Medicine Hat resident.  The new owners take possession on February 15^th.  According to Wong, the new owners intend to open a specialty grocery, confectionary, and meat shop.  (Maple Creek News, January 3, 2008)

Heritage Car and Truck Wash in Maple Creek is scheduled to open in the spring of 2008.  Daryl Bascom and his wife Cheryl of Irvine, Alberta purchased a lot north of the CPR tracks in May of last year.  The exterior of the building is mostly complete, but construction is ongoing inside.  (Maple Creek News, January 3, 2008)

Less than two months after opening Kooksy's Restaurant owner Marlene Mosquito has hired a second cook to keep up with business.  (Maple Creek News, January 10, 2008)

Council decided on January 8^th to develop new lots on the east side of town.  Two subdivision proposals were created for the town in December by Scheffer Andrew Ltd. of Medicine Hat, one on the west side and one on the east side.  The subdivision could accommodate 100 new lots when completed but council will consult with the engineering firm to develop the new neighbourhood in phases.  (Maple Creek News, January 10, 2008)

Rosetown

The group trying to establish a 12-acre greenhouse near Rosetown has hired a consultant to locate investors and management.  Kingsmere Capital Corporation president Michael Grace of Saskatoon has worked with investors looking for opportunities and corporations with money to invest during his 20 years in the business, according to a statement from the Rosetown Regional Greenhouse Authority.  Grace intends to spend the next few months reviewing and restructuring the authority's business plan and establishing a financial model that appeals to investors.  (The Eagle, January 7, 2008)

Shaunavon

Lloyd Garthus recently opened the Thor Store at its Centre Street location.  The store features a wide selection of pottery - including Lloyd's own work as well as a selection from other studios - along with his Svensen Toboggans and other artwork.  (The Shaunavon Standard, December 18, 2007)

Kevin and Byllie-Rae Szwetz have purchased Cornerstone Florist and Convenience from Penny Bernadet.  After minor renovations the store has opened under the name The Shaunavon Snack Shack.  The Snack Shack will continue to over convenience items and movie rentals.  Bernadet will operate her florist business from her home.  (The Shaunavon Standard, January 8, 2008)

After a short break for the holiday season, officials with Cypress Agri Energy (CAE) are reenergizing their effort to bring an ethanol plant to the Southwest.  The group is planning one final fundraising push early in the New Year in the hope of raising enough capital to launch the project.  CAE is also in discussions with two potential outside partners, but if the group is unable to reach their minimum goal then the project will not get completed.  (The Shaunavon Standard, January 8, 2008)

Swift Current

As more people move to Saskatchewan, it's becoming increasingly difficult to find a rental property, and Swift Current is no exception.  Paul Caton, Senior Market Analyst with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation says the strong resource-based economy with affordable housing has caused a record low vacancy rate.  He says the city has a vacancy rate of 0.9%, which is down significantly from last year's 2.7%.  (http://www.swiftcurrentonline.com/, December 14, 2007)

The Husky Store on South Service Road East continues to expand.  Jason Phillips, a Husky employee, says they are constructing a state-of-the-art touchless car wash facility adjacent to the store.  Phillips adds that the construction should be complete by this coming summer.  (http://www.swiftcurrentonline.com/, December 16, 2007)

With housing prices continuing to reach record highs across the province, prospective home owners in Swift Current will soon need to look at spending more on a new home.  Trevor Koot with Century 21 says, in 2007, the average price for a home in the city took a considerable leap.  He says the average house price went up to $134,000 which is up almost $20,000 from 2006.  (http://www.swiftcurrentonline.com/, January 7, 2008)

The continued demand for housing in Swift Current is being answered by the city.  City Council agreed to subdivide a property on Colonel Otter Drive.  Mac Forster, Director of Engineering, says the lot will now be divided into 44 condominium lots.  (http://www.swiftcurrentonline.com/, January 8, 2008)

The Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority announced that Lionel Tootoosis will be the new General Manager of Swift Current's Living Sky Casino.  (http://www.swiftcurrentonline.com/, January 11, 2008)

From the City of Swift Current for the month of December 2007:

• 5 Building Permits issued with a total of 246 for 2007
• 2 Occupancy Permits issued for new businesses for a total of 125 for 2007.

Bredenbury

The Board of Directors of Twin Valley Co-op has approved the sale of part of its Bredenbury operations to Agrium Fertilizers of Calgary, effective December 21, 2007.  The sales agreement includes the granular and liquid fertilizer assets.  Twin Valley Co-op will retain the anhydrous ammonia assets.  All existing staff has accepted employment with other branches of Twin Valley Co-op.  (The Four-Town Journal, January 9, 2008)

Broadview

Kathy McGuffin and Candace Rienks have purchased LC Corral Restaurant from Sid and Dawn Criddle.  The restaurant is now called Kaycie's Roadhouse.  (The Broadview Express, January 7, 2008)

Jamie Herndier and Ryan Martens have purchased the Broadview Hotel, which includes a bar and restaurant.  The staff will expand from its current number of two, and will likely grow to include around ten employees.  The two men will take over the business effective January 27, 2008.  (The Broadview Express, January 8, 2008)

On January 5^th a fire destroyed Broadview Autobody.  The owners, Gail and Duncan McGregor and Howard Parker, have indicated they would rebuild, but that it could take up to five to eight months.  (The Broadview Express, January 8, 2008)

Churchbridge

Elizabeth and Brett Garrett have opened Churchbridge Café.  A grand opening was held on December 11^th.  (The Four-Town Journal, December 19, 2007)

Kamsack

After a long process, a government-licensed daycare will be operating in Kamsack.  Construction and renovations on the upper north wing of Crowstand centre is expected to begin in January, with a completion date expected in March.  KamKids Daycare has been funded for 33 spaces that include three infants, five toddlers, 15 pre-school and 10 school age children.  Plans are to hire about seven persons, four full-time and three part-time.  Government funding will provide a little less than half the cost of operating the daycare, the remainder will be acquired through fees and fundraising.  (Kamsack Times, December 13, 2007)

Kipling

Lloyd and Marcia Rolufs of Rolufs Esso were presented with a plaque as Kipling's 2007 Business of the Year, sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce.  Kim Rolufs was also selected as Kipling's 2007 Employee of the Year.  (The Kipling Citizen, December 21, 2007)

Langenburg

Canadian Farm Business Management Council, in partnership with the George Morris Centre and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, are taking value chain workshops to farmers across the country.  One of these meetings will take place in Langenburg on February 7, 2008.  The interactive, one-day seminars will provide participants with the tools to begin their own value chain, to improve their business practices, and their long-term profitability.  Topics include developing a value chain, benefits derived, value chain mapping and management, and critical success factors.  (The Four-Town Journal, January 9, 2008)

Melville

The City of Melville could be the site of the only fire school in Saskatchewan.  Parkland Regional College (PRC) hopes to start training volunteer and professional firefighters starting August 2008. Melville Fire Chief, Tyrone Mogenson, has been working with PRC and Fire Etc, which runs a training facility in Vermillion, Alberta, to bring a satellite center to Melville.  The College will be partnering with Fire Etc., which is a division of Lakeland College in Vermillion.  (The Melville Advance, December 26, 2007)

In October, Babcock and Wilcox had announced 45 layoffs would take place in December.  They have now announced a cancellation of 73% of these layoffs.  The International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Lodge 555, in Regina, indicated the union will be able to find work for the 12 laid off workers, although probably not in Melville.  (Regina Leader-Post, January 5, 2008)

Melville City Council has learned that CN is planning to sell the former CN Rail Station for use as a major tourist attraction to the Melville Rail Station Heritage Association for use as the Western Canadian Hockey Hall of Fame.  CN has announced it will apply to the federal government in January for permission to sell the building.  (The Melville Advance, January 9, 2008)

Melville's attempt to obtain a grant of approximately $2.9 million for its proposed stadium replacement project has received some support from at least nine of the 18 area municipal councils eligible to help its attempt to be accepted for a provincial Building Better Communities Grant to help pay for the $13 million Stadium.  (The Melville Advance, January 9, 2008)

Neudorf

SaskTel has announced improved Internet access for the community of Neudorf.  (The Grenfell Sun, January 8, 2008)

Peebles

Peebles and the surrounding area will now be able to enjoy the benefits of SaskTel's wireless Internet service.  (The Kipling Citizen, December 21, 2007)

Regional

Assiniboine Corridor Development Inc, an organization that aims to attract visitors year-round to the "Assiniboine Corridor" in eastern Saskatchewan, will receive $105,000 from the federal and provincial governments.  Western Economic Diversification Canada will provide $90,000, with the Ministry of Enterprise and Innovation picking up the remaining $15,000.  The money will be used to hire contractors to develop an "identifiable brand" for the organization, maps, a Web Site, and self-guided tour brochures. The Assiniboine Corridor runs from Kamsack and Duck Mountain Provincial Park in the north to Esterhazy and St. Lazare, Manitoba in the south, and includes Riding Mountain National Park.  The organization is looking to develop the area into a year-round recreational, tourism, economic, and conservation area.  (Regina Leader-Post, January 8, 2008)

Stockholm

Monna Duchek and Mike Schwitzer have opened The Junction Corner Confectionary, a convenience store and restaurant.  A gas bar is expected to be opened sometime in January 2008.  (The Miner-Journal, Esterhazy, December 17, 2007)

Yorkton

Darcy Pfeifer has taken over Glendale Autobody.  The new business name is Pro Touch Autobody.   (Yorkton This Week, December 26, 2007)

On January 1, 2008, an official amalgamation of the Tisdale, Gateway, and Cornerstone Credit Unions took place.  This new entity will serve over 25,000 members, manage almost $600 million in member assets and employ over 160 people.  The new Credit Union will have branch locations in 13 communities. They will use the name Cornerstone Credit Union.  (Yorkton This Week, January 2, 2008)

Parkland Regional College is celebrating their 35^th anniversary.  A new college logo will be introduced, as well as a name change to Parkland College.  The college will publicly launch the logo in the first week of June at each of its campuses in conjunction with its 35^th anniversary celebration.  (Yorkton This Week, January 9, 2008

The province's minimum wage will increase to $8.25 per hour effective January 1, 2008.  (Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, December 17, 2007)

Great Western Minerals Group Ltd. of Saskatoon hoped to validate the feasibility of a rare earth mine in Saskatchewan's far north by raising $3 million.  The company has managed to raise $3.27 million with 5% going to the brokerage houses.  Great Western will continue a drilling program in an attempt to better define the amount of rare earth ore at Hoidas Lake.  It will also begin construction of a pilot plant that could show economical means of separating the rare earth minerals from the ore.  (Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, December 18, 2007)

Saskatchewan's rate of inflation over the last 12 months has increased by 4% - second highest among the provinces - with housing seen as the main culprit, according to Statistics Canada.  The cost of shelter in Saskatchewan has seen record highs in the last year, having increased by 11.7% from November 2006 to November 2007.  (Regina Leader-Post, December 19, 2007)

The 2007 Saskatchewan Business Magazine Business of the Year is the Saskatchewan Indian Gaming Authority (SIGA).  Home to five casinos in the province, SIGA has created a multi-million dollar industry in just a few years.  (Saskatchewan Business Magazine, December 2007 & Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, December 18, 2007))

Saskatchewan business owners are leading the nation in optimism, says a survey of members of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB).  The survey, answered by about 1,700 members of the CFIB across Canada, asked a series of questions about how owners expected their businesses to perform during the next 12 months.  Saskatchewan received a rating of 115.2 in a scoring system used to measure the amount of optimism in the province.  That is well above the national score of 104.2.  (Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, December 20, 2007)

The Western Canadian Value Chain Initiative, a Saskatchewan-based program that educates producers about the benefits of value chains, is set to bring together producers as well as processors and marketers in order to increase opportunity and market share for agriculture and agri-food products.  The initiative sees the Agriculture Council of Saskatchewan join with the British Columbia Investment Agriculture Foundation, the Alberta Agriculture and Food Council, the Manitoba Rural Adaptation Centre, and the provincial governments of all four provinces involved.  (Saskatoon Star-Phoenix, December 20, 2007)

The population of Saskatchewan has reached just over one million people, according to Statistics Canada.  The current population of 1,003,299 people in the province marks the first time the province has topped one million in over six years.  (The Outlook, December 24, 2007)