Why Regina is Attractive to Businesses 

Cost of Doing Business Summary

When all the costs of establishing and running a business in the Regina region are factored in and compared to other corporate centers in Canada, the United States and abroad, the Regina has the a lower business cost environment.

What does this mean for businesses that decide to settle here?  Lower cost structure compared to competition, more money to reinvest into the company to improve efficiencies and productivity and improved shareholder value.

Location:

Saskatchewan, and Regina in particular, is very centrally located in North America. Our economy is the strongest in the country, making it one of the strongest on the continent. Whether your business is locally focused or has an international scope, location favors you here.

Construction Costs

 The cost of building a factory or a warehouse/office complex is significantly less in Regina than in any other corporate centre in Western Canada. For instance, savings in the order of $115,000 to $527,000 can be realized by building a 50,000 sq. ft. warehouse/office complex respectively here as compared to other provinces.

Combined with the price of industrial land, it gives the city of Regina a tremendous cost advantage when choosing a location for a large manufacturing business.

Office and Industrial Rental Rates

When the size of business dictates the need to move into existing office of industrial space, Regina’s rental rates are considered very attractive.  

Cost of Living:  

Affordable Housing

The Regina Region offers homebuyers a variety of homes, neighborhoods and prices.  There are many options to choose from such as a downtown condominium, a California style home in the southeast end of the city, a traditional farm home near Lumsden, or a lakeside home at Regina Beach.

Value for money comes to mind when shopping for a home in the Regina Region.  Homeowners relocating to the Regina Region can afford to move up in the housing market, write down their mortgages, or invest the cash difference elsewhere.

The most recent report from Royal LePage indicates that the City of Regina maintains one of the lowest housing prices in Canada.

 Taxes and Household Charges

Regina compares favorably with other jurisdictions when it comes to total sales and household charges for a family of four with a total household income of $50,000.  In fact, total taxes and household charges in Regina are lower at $25,000, $50,000 and $75,000 income levels compared to other major cities in Canada. Our provincial income tax system further protects and enhances Regina’s favorable cost of living position. This means more disposable income for Regina families.

Conclusion

According to the several studies, Regina has the sixth lowest overall business cost of the 64 cities examined in eight countries (Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, United Kingdom and the United States), the lowest in Western Canada, all of the U.S., and the vast majority of Eastern Canada.

These independent reports confirm there are clear cost advantages to setting up, expanding, relocating or consolidating an international business in Regina.  The result … increased profitability and improved shareholder value.

Competitive Alternatives – Highlights

Special Report: Focus on Tax

KPMG's Guide to International Business Location

This article is an excerpt from the Competitive Alternatives 2010 Special Report: Focus on Tax presented by KPMG. The complete article can be found here.

KPMG’s annual Competitive Alternatives Report reveals that Mexico remains in the number one spot for having the lowest total taxes, but changes to the tax systems in Australia, Canada, and the Netherlands that have enhanced their attractiveness as tax friendly environments.

The report assesses the general tax competitiveness of 95 cities in 10 countries (Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Mexico, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and the United States). The analysis focuses on 41 major cities with populations greater than 2 million, and compares the total tax burden faced by companies, including income tax, capital tax, sales tax, property tax, miscellaneous local business taxes, and statutory labor costs.

The report compares the total tax cost between countries and cities using a Total Tax Index (TTI) score for each location, expressed as a percentage of total taxes paid by corporations in the US. A lower score is better since it means lower tax costs for businesses.

Among the countries studied, Mexico has the lowest TTI at 59.9; in other words, total tax costs in Mexico are 40.1 percent lower than in the US, which has a TTI of 100.0. Canada, the Netherlands, Australia, and the UK also have TTI ratings below the US. At the other end of the spectrum, France’s TTI of 181.4 signifies that its total tax costs are 81.4 percent higher than the US standard.

"Our study reveals that there is no standard approach in setting tax policy among the countries examined," says Greg Wiebe, KPMG Canada's Managing Partner, Tax. "Although the types of taxes used to raise government revenues are more or less the same, there is a huge range in how these taxes are weighted and applied. A country's tax policy choices can significantly affect the tax cost of doing business in that country."

The TTI rankings of countries in 2010 are generally consistent with the 2008 rankings. Canada has moved ahead of the Netherlands, and the UK has moved ahead of the United States—although, these pairs of countries were very closely grouped in 2008, such that marginal changes in TTI have resulted in changes in rankings. The more substantive changes between 2008 and 2010 are:

Japan falls two places, from seventh to ninth, and is the only country to see an increase in its TTI between 2008 and 2010. This is largely due to the strong appreciation of the Japanese yen over the last 2 years, which increases the cost (in US dollars) of non-income based taxes paid in Japan.

Italy moves up one ranking, from ninth to eighth, and sees the largest decrease in TTI of any country. This improvement for Italy is largely due to economic stimulus tax incentives offered in Italy for new business investment occurring in 2010; therefore, this improvement may well be short lived.
 

Australia's rank does not change—remaining in fourth place—but it sees the second largest decrease in TTI among the countries studied. This improvement is largely due to changes in Australia's R&D tax incentives in 2010.

The complete Special Report: Focus on Tax document is available for download in the Downloadsection of the KPMG Competitive Alternatives website.

2011 – 2012 Regina & Saskatchewan Events

Canada is a country of active people! It is also a country of variety. No matter what your interests, you will find activities to appeal to you. There is just so much going on in Saskatchewan all the time! The best way to keep up with current events is to keep an eye on the Regina Events page here.

Here is just a small sampling of what awaits you …

The Saskatchewan Craft Council puts on several events each year. But Craft in Saskatchewan is about much more than the SCC itself. Their members, along with a host of other Craft and Arts related organizations, offer dozens of events every year. If you want to find out what is happening in Craft across the province, just click on the Community Events Calendar or view the Educational Events page.

SUNDOG Arts & Entertainment Faire – Dec. 2 – 4, 2011

The Sundog Arts & Entertainment Faire has become an eagerly anticipated event during the Christmas season for Saskatoon and area shoppers. The prime focus of the Sundog Arts Society has always been to promote arts, crafts and music, making them available to the general Saskatchewan public. This event is held at the Credit Union Centre, formerly known as Saskatchewan Place, in Saskatoon.

Back to Batoche Days - July 19-22, 2012 

Back to Batoche Days is the Métis Nation's commemoration of their culture, traditions and heritage. It is the time and the place when and where the Métis memorialize and pay homage to national heroes such as Louis Riel, Gabriel Dumont, and many others. It’s a time to celebrate who the Métis are as a Nation today and for future generations.

http://www.mn-s.ca/main/

Ness Creek Festival  – Third Weekend in July

What began as a Friday/Saturday Festival with 7 bands and 200 people steadily grew over the years to include a variety of events that take place over 4 days, filled with over 20 Main Stage performances, Workshop stage, Eco-Village, Community Kitchen, Children's Area, Drum and Dance Circle, Community Sharing Circle, Chill Tent and over 2700 attendees.

If seeing is believing, then you simply have to see Saskatchewan. Otherwise, you won’t believe the expanse of the land, or the feeling of serenity that the constant, distant horizon brings to your soul. You won’t believe the size of the endless sky overhead, or the vibrant colours that fill it at sunrise, sunset or midnight. You won’t believe the down-to-earth, welcoming nature of the people you’ll meet, or the range of cultures and experiences that have come together to create this unique and spirited society.

Regina, the Capital City of Saskatchewan, is located in the southern portion of the province. The city is home to the largest legislative building in Canada and hosts the world- renowned Royal Canadian Mounted Police Training Academy and RCMP Heritage Centre.

In the heart of the city you will find Wascana Centre, a 300-acre urban park boasting a pristine view of the Saskatchewan Legislature, marina, walking paths, bird watching venues, park area, tennis courts, picnic and BBQ sites. The park also accommodates the Saskatchewan Science Centre, Kramer Imax Theatre, the MacKenzieArt Gallery, and the Royal Saskatchewan Museum.

Aside from many attractions, Regina is also rich in resources as agriculture, tourism, and oil and gas production fuel the economy. While Regina's economic base is diverse it is also recognized as one of the most affordable places to live, work, play and do business in western North America. 

9:00 – 10:00    Depart Hotel touring downtown area - featuring shopping, parks, accommodation, transportation, casino etc., Government House

10:00 – 12:00    Arrive RCMP Heritage Centre for welcome greeting, multi-media presentation, self-guided tour through exhibits and unique Canadian gift shop.

• Using state of the art exhibits, multimedia technologies and engaging programming, the Centre tells the story of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police including the Force's role in the development of Canada, the role of the RCMP in policing over 200 communities across Canada, the challenges of serving as Canada's Federal Police Force, and the role the RCMP plays internationally. 

12:00 – 12:30    Touring via 13th Ave. (Cathedral Area) en route to lunch

12:30 – 14:00    Willows on Wascana – Saskatchewan themed lunch

14:15 – 15:30    Royal Saskatchewan Museum

• Galleries feature - Earth Sciences depicting 3.5 billion years of geological/fossil history, First Nations tracing 10,000 years of aboriginal culture, and Life Sciences showing Saskatchewan's eco-regions and the impact of the "human factor”

15:30 – 16:30    Touring past sound stage, CBC, Science Centre, UofR, SIAST Campus with stop at First Nation’s University for photos and Wascana Park

16:30 – 17:00    Tour Saskatchewan Legislative Building

• One of the most historic properties in all of Saskatchewan - originally constructed from 1908 - 1912 - the centerpiece of government in Saskatchewan.

17:00 – 18:00    Reception in Cumberland Gallery and Cumberland Gallery Gift Shop – Saskatchewan Legislature

18:15    Return to Hotel

Evening Suggestions:

Winter:

• Evening visit to local curling club to experience curling. Could do it as spectators or make arrangements to have a quick workshop.
• Take in a Regina Pats Hockey Game

Summer:

• Sunset Retreat Ceremony at RCMP Depot – 6:45 Tuesdays in July and August
• Football (gridiron) – Roughriders or seasonally - high-school

The Arts:

• Globe Theatre
• Regina Symphony Orchestra

This Exciting Tour brought to you by

The Travel Gallery:  Bringing peace of mind to your travel arrangements

Welcome to Life in Canada!  We are very excited that you are taking the opportunity to visit our wonderful country, and the city of Regina in particular.  We know that the journey is challenging and that you might be worried about what will happen when you get here.  Put those worries aside.  We’re here to help you

As the official travel agency with LifeinCanada.ca we can take care of all your arrangements.  We’ll help you find the best flight connections to the Canadian destinations you want to visit.  Your hotel accommodations will be selected to suit your tastes, interests and family considerations.  While visiting Regina, you’ll join an orientation tour of the Queen City – one that will introduce you to our neighbourhoods, our tourist attractions, our parks and our people. 

And – since you’re coming this long way to a place as diverse as Canada, we’ll help you explore other parts of our country.  You may have always wanted to see Vancouver, or ride a train through the Rockies; or perhaps you’ve heard about driving the Banff-Jasper Highway – one of the truly great drives on the planet.  Or maybe it’s visiting a fishing camp in Northern Saskatchewan where the air is clear and the fish abound. Or could it be that Vancouver Island, with Victoria at one end and the Cathedral Forest at the other is one of your dreams.  We can even get you to Whistler, part of the 2010 Winter Olympic sites and truly a magnificent location.  There’s Toronto, Montreal, Quebec City (celebrating 400 years in 2008), Prince Edward Island and the rock island, Newfoundland.  That’s just scratching the surface of the places to see.  We know you probably have a “must-see” list – we’ll help you check it off

In other words, we’re here for you.  All the details and arrangements will be handled by us. 

To get things started contact: 

Carmen Milenkovic, Vice-President

The Travel Gallery

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www.mytravelgallery.com

(306)790-3315

We’re excited for you! 

Five minutes north of Regina, two turns off Highway 6, lies one of the cleanest factories in Saskatchewan, if not Canada. Cleanliness and a lack of clutter are the first things that strike you as you walk through the plant for the first time.

Inside Brandt Engineered Products 210 employees design, build, and put the finishing touches on a variety of innovative products for pipe mills, steel mills, and railroads. Brandt Engineered Products is one of three Brandt manufacturing companies in Regina, and they are all in need of welders, heavy-duty mechanics, fabricators, mechanical assemblers, truck mechanics, draftsmen and mechanical engineering technologists.

Jim Semple, the company's Vice President, says "We are experiencing an unprecedented demand for the equipment that our manufacturing plants produce.  All indications tell us that the demand will get even stronger.  That's why we are expanding two of our manufacturing facilities and recruiting dozens more skilled workers."

The booming economies of Saskatchewan and its neighboring province, Alberta, have led to a labour shortage in Regina, and many companies are looking overseas to fill those positions. For Brandt, Europe is one of the most attractive areas to look.

"We need people who are skilled in the manual trades.  Many European countries have a history of schooling people in trades skills from an early age.  In our experience this has made them excellent trades people."

Europeans are looking back, particularly the British ones. In the last few years, Brandt has hired at least three machinists from England, and it's hoping to attract more. Thirty-six year old Dave Garnett is one of those hires. Originally from Newcastle, Garnett has been with Brandt for two-and-a-half years. "We wanted to get out of the rat race of England," he said. "And basically it's something I've really wanted to do [for] probably about 15 years."

The twinkly-eyed shop supervisor started out working on a CNC Milling Centre, but it didn't take long for him to receive a promotion. It didn't take him long to get to Regina once he'd made up his mind, either. Garnett and his wife started thinking about moving four years ago. Although the prairies had never entered their minds as a possible location, when an old friend who immigrated to Regina told Garnett to come visit, he hopped in a plane, resume in hand. His first - and last - stop was Brandt. "I got offered the job that afternoon," he laughed.

Garnett said it took him and his wife, Wendy, eight months to move. It took them another year to really settle down. "Because you always have the temptations of Alberta and B.C.," he said. But now, Garnett admits he wouldn't go anywhere else.

"I think I'm home."

It's a feeling Neil Osborn is familiar with. The 46-year-old only arrived in Regina two and a half months ago, but he already feels more comfortable here than he did in Leicester, England.

"Less people, more space, just a complete sense of freedom," Osborn said. "I fell in love with the place the minute I landed."

Osborn and his wife, Bev, wanted to leave England many years ago, when their two children were young, but it didn't work out. A few years after their son and daughter finished high school and "got their own lives," their parents decided it was time to try again.

They spent almost two years "looking over the Internet for positions and responding to advertisements through Workopolis," but Osborn says there didn't appear to be a lot of work available. He took a chance and applied through a Regina-based employment firm looking for truckers and truck mechanics. Even though he didn't fit their qualifications they passed his name on to potential employers...including a manager at Brandt Engineered Products. The e-mails started flying, and before Osborn knew it, he was in Regina. "I had two interviews and sort of went home with a job offer in the back pocket," he remembered.

Several months later Osborn had moved to Regina and started his new position as assembly foreman. The work is actually a slight cut in responsibility from assistant chief engineer at a Leicester paper mill, but Osborn said he enjoys it more. "What I've seen at Brandt, they take care of their people and they've made me quite welcome," he said.

Both Osborn and Garnett talk about Brandt's dedication to its employees. The company regularly holds staff appreciation barbecues, golf tournaments, and even curling bonspiels.  Brandt's annual Christmas party is known for being one of the best in the city. Garnett's favorite memory is how Brandt treated its Regina staff to free tickets to the Rolling Stones concert in 2006. "They really go over and above what you expect," said Garnett. "Guys from England can't even believe it when I'm on the phone, because I boast" he laughed. "They can't get anything."

Jim Semple says it's all part of Brandt's management philosophy. "The Golden Rule pays big dividends.  We treat our people the way we like to be treated.  They reciprocate by producing good work and great products.  This leads to satisfied customers who keep coming back."

Over the years, Brandt has won a number of awards. It has been chosen eight times as one of Canada's 50 Best Managed Companies, an award sponsored by Deloitte, CIBC, National Post and Queens School of Business. It was awarded Business of the Year by Saskatchewan Business Magazine in 2003, and by the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce in 1993. Brandt employs 1200 people across Western Canada, and is expected to make sales of one billion dollars in 2007. Brandt exports to countries as diverse as Brazil, Venezuela, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, as well as the United States.

Of course, it's not just the treatment from Brandt and potential promotions that attract people like the Osborns and the Garnetts. It's the Saskatchewan lifestyle as well. Both men say they are healthier and happier since moving, because they eat better food for less money, and are more active in Saskatchewan's wide-open spaces.

They also say they are financially better off. Garnett has noticed that his dollar just seems to stretch farther in Regina. "Eating out and doing things is way cheaper," he said. "We've both got a nice car, a nice house. We both seem to go out and get things here whereas in England it seemed to take forever."

House prices are a big attraction also. Garnett and Osborn both sold their homes in England and bought bigger, nicer homes in Regina for less money. Osborn's home (which he hasn't moved into yet) even has a hot tub and a pool table.

"If you've got younger children, school age, I would say yes, come here," he said. "Because I think the opportunities are better. There's less overcrowding, there's a lot more activities you can take part in, and of course, your standard of living is higher."

Osborn said the hardest part for him and his wife is missing the family they have left behind. But that could change. Both of their children are coming out to visit, in the hopes of finding work in Regina. They have invited Osborn's mother to retire in Regina, and even Bev's brother is considering making a move.

All in all, the two men say life is better than it has ever been....and neither of them have any regrets. Osborn and his wife are even looking into Canadian citizenship.

Brandt is very pleased with their success in recruiting skilled workers from overseas.  "It is certainly an initiative we will continue with," says Semple.  "A local shortage of skilled trades people is the #1 constraint we struggle with in expanding our businesses."

For more information please visit  http://www.brandt.ca

By Bob Hughes

Some people dream dreams. And some people live their dreams. When you are the parents of three young girls living in one of the most storied countries in the world, you might think the future for your children is the yellow brick road you’ve been raised on. But when it hits you that the opportunities awaiting them are truly limited, you have two choices. You stick it out, as you did, as your parents did, as their parents did and as the parents before them did. Or, you look far beyond.   

The story that brought the Bruce and Claudia Cooper and their three girls to, of all places, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada is one wrapped in hope, promise and the sudden dramatic reality that became a dream come true. Because they came from England, armed only with a genuine belief that they had found a home for themselves and a future for their children in a land of opportunity. And it is a story that became wrapped in little but joy.   

They found nothing but happiness. That’s it, happiness.       

On a Friday night dinner party, on the eastern skirts of Regina in a place called Emerald Park, the Cooper family from a place north of England entertained my wife and I. We savoured beautifully done roast beef, succulent potatoes, vegetables, but no Yorkshire pudding.    

Lives lived affect the lives of others.   

Here we have a family that has rooted itself from one land to another and made it work so well it is so astounding. Bruce and Claudia were born and raised in England. They lived about 90 miles north of London. Bruce was a machinist, Claudia a day care worker. They have three girls – Tracie, 19, Emily 14 and Bethany 10. And, of course, a Yorkshire Terrier named Megan.   

How did it all come about? Much easier than you would think. The Coopers found England becoming too heavily populated and an increasingly expensive place to live. And, they worried about the opportunities for their three children. So, they went looking for a land of opportunity, and they found Saskatchewan.   
They had heard of Canada, but they had never heard of Saskatchewan and certainly not Regina. All they knew was that it is the middle of nowhere. But, by chance, a friend of theirs had left England and moved to Regina.   

To make a long story short, the Coopers ended up deciding on making a bold move. They sold their home and bought a beautiful house on a large lot in Emerald Park, a family type village located just outside of Regina. Bruce easily found a job as a machinist. They moved to Saskatchewan in January of 2006, and knew it was the right thing. It didn’t not cost as much to live there, and they were able to buy more, and still save money every month.

“It’s easily the best thing we ever did,” Bruce said. “We have never had any doubts, or problems. It’s more than we could ever have expected.”     And the children love it as, settling into their new life with ease. Not only that, they love the school they are attending.    
More and more people will be making the move to Saskatchewan. It’s highly affordable. It’s in a booming economy. There are jobs galore, available for anyone – from doctors and nurses to trades people. And it is not over-populated. The population of Saskatchewan is about 1,000,000 people. The two largest cities are Saskatoon (200,000) and Regina (180,000).

And moving here is not as difficult as you might think. Regina real estate agent Loretta Sernowski can let you know just how easy it it is. You can contact her on the Life In Canada web site, and you’ll be starting a new, exciting and prosperous life before you know it.

Close Knit Community

Regina is a close knit community where you always know your neighbours - even the premier is just down the street and only a phone call away. 

Pristine Environment 

Saskatchewan's pristine environment means businesses can be built in noise and pollution-free surroundings, and the amount of wide open space means that you can set up a factory anywhere.  

Local Work Ethic

People who believed that hard work, honesty and teamwork were the only things needed to get ahead in life, built the Regina region, and today we have a new generation of entrepreneurial, innovative and educated minds.  This combined with a strong work ethic and level of ingenuity is evident in the people of Saskatchewan today.  Regina and region has one of the highest job tenure rates in the country because people are committed to their employees. 

Technology Infrastructure

Regina has a solid technology infrastructure in place and is building on that infrastructure  to adapt to the changing needs of business allowing businesses to instantly connect with clients and suppliers around the globe.

Lowest Business Cost

Regina has consistently remained one of the lowest cost business environments in North America, which means you can spend more money investing in and expanding your business. 

Active Business Community

Regina's business community works together as a team to improve and assist all businesses in the city to grow the regionally economy.  We have active federal and provincial participation in building our infrastructure and making valued contributions to the business community.

Integrated Knowledge Corridor

Regina's Knowledge Corridor, including the University of Regina, Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Arts, Science and Technology and the First Nations University, is integrated within the city's business community and has taken a leadership role in developing Regina's economic growth. 

A Living Laboratory

Regina has the fastest growing research park in North America with research, expertise and innovation in the energy, environment, and new digital media, information and communications technology sectors.  Regina and region has become a "living laboratory" for methods of maintaining sustainability that could one day be applied throughout the world. 

Central to the Continent

Regina is, quite literally, in the middle of it all - a location right in the middle of North America, which Regina offers proximity to all other major business centres throughout the continent. 

Size Matters

Regina is the perfect size - big enough to have all of the services a business or family require, yet small enough to have maintained a ‘small-town' feeling - it wont be long before you feel right at home. 

Home Safe Home

The London-based Economist Intelligence Unit's (EIU) Liveability Ranking conducted a worldwide search for the best places to live.  The ranking was based on 40 indicators in 5 categories including stability, healthcare, culture & environment, education and infrastructure.  When all was said and done, Canada came out on top!  The reasons were Canada's low crime rate, little threat from terrorism and a highly developed infrastructure.  Don't forget that the UN ranked Canada the #1 country to live in 5 years in a row!

Source - 2006 Regina "You'll Love it Here!"  Bookmark

Let's Talk Business

Regina offers the lowest overall cost of doing business in Western Canada and all of the U.S., according to the KPMG Study, which is a comparison of business costs in eight separate countries.  This same study showed Regina as having the 6^th lowest overall cost of doing business in the 64 cities that were examined.  For people considering doing business here, Regina provides very cost-effective industrial land prices and construction costs, attractive office & industrial rental rates, as well as highly competitive utility rates.

With the added ease of travelling to work in less than 20 minutes, combined with low costs and high productivity, Regina has proven to be one of the best places to do business.

Education - the Key to Success

A multitude of options exist for students of Regina.  Elementary and high school curriculum are administered through the Public and Separate School Boards, and are offered in both English and French.  The University of Regina hosts 9 academic faculties and 23 departments, offering programs which lead to Bachelor, Master & Doctoral Degrees.   It also offers the well-known Co-operative Education Program, which alternates 4-month academic terms with 4-month salaried work terms...the first of its kind in western Canada!  Regina is also home to the First Nations University of Canada, which is the only university-level institution in North America controlled by First Nations & Indigenous People.  It offers educational opportunities to both First Nations and non-First Nations students.  Post secondary students also have the option of attending the Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology at the Regina Wascana Campus, where a vast variety of programs are available.  These are just some of the educational options available to students in Regina.

Sports Enthusiasts have Plenty Options

Be it indoor or outdoor sports that you enjoy, Regina provides countless sport related programs and facilities both at low cost or no cost!  Residents stay active in numerous health club facilities, community & leisure centres, ice arenas and indoor/outdoor swimming pools. Hockey and Curling are popular here. The city also has more than a total of 330 soccer (football), American football and baseball fields, tennis courts and outdoor rinks, used for both competitive and recreation play. Thousands of outdoor enthusiasts cycle, roller blade, jog and walk through Wascana Centre, the largest urban park in North America. Or get into the swing of things with a game of golf, Saskatchewan has more golf courses per capita than anywhere in the world. 

The Forecast calls for Sun

An average of 2,365 sunshine hours each year, has earned Regina a reputation of clear & sunny days.  In fact, Regina is the sunniest capital city in Canada.  Open fields surround the city and provide the perfect setting for endless and breath taking sunsets. It is not by coincidence that Regina resides in the province known as the ‘Land of Living Skies'.

Air Quality Among the Best

An environmental survey in Chatelaine Magazine rated Regina's air and water quality among the best in Canada.  It also gave an "A" rating for Regina's environmental initiatives, with emphasis in the areas of CO2 reduction & wastewater treatment.  The importance of these findings is directly related to ongoing research that confirms that air pollution is a contributing cause of morbidity and mortality.  Epidemiological research has found consistent associations between air pollution and respiratory symptoms, reduced lung function, chronic bronchitis, and the list continues.  Our air quality in itself is a major benefit for those cities where there is growing concern regarding children's exposure to air pollution & the effects.

A Note Worthy Labor Market

Regina's long standing low unemployment rates reflects a strong and growing economy.  This productive city has also proven to have one of the highest Labor Production Rates in Western Canada, according to the Conference Board of Canada.  Employees here are protected by Worker's Compensation, which subsidizes wages lost due to work-related injuries.  For working individuals who are upgrading their skills, pregnant, caring for a newborn, or sick, temporary financial assistance is also available through Employment Insurance. 

Regina, Saskatchewan's Health System is Second to None

The province's health system is committed to publicly funded health care and no medical insurance premiums.  Saskatchewan is the birthplace of Medicare in North America, with a 50-year history serving as a model for health systems around the world. The Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region offers a full range of hospital, rehabilitation, long-term & home care services. Mental health and addictions services are also provided.  Saskatchewan has also won international recognition for its progressive and innovative social programs!

Regina Boasts of Low Real Estate Prices

The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) confirms that the average buying/selling price for a residential property is lower in Regina, than nearly every other major city in Canada.  According to the CREA, the average residential price in Regina's real estate market was $132,799 in April 2006.

Profitable Cost-of-Living

Regina residents enjoy a low cost of living and a high quality of life!  It makes sense that travelling to and from work costs less being that the maximum commute time is approximately 20 minutes!  Then consider our gas prices as compared to Europe's; Regina's gas prices were $1.09/litre as of June 2006.  Add to this the fact that Saskatchewan was noted to have the lowest automobile insurance rates across Canada in 2005.  Combine this all with highly competitive utility rates, markedly lower real estate prices, low overall cost of doing business, and publicly funded health care, it's easy to see how Regina offers a low cost of living!

Saskatchewan's highest elevation is Cypress Hills (1,392 m or 4,566 ft above sea level)

Half the province is covered by forest, one third is farmland and one eighth is fresh water.

Saskatchewan produces over 54% of the wheat grown in Canada.

The city of Estevan in southeast Saskatchewan is Canada's sunshine capital, averaging 2,540 sunshine-filled hours each year.

Saskatchewan is home to Canada's only training academy for Royal Canadian Mounted Police recruits, in Regina.

The T.rex skeleton excavated near Eastend in 1994/1995 is one of the best of only 12 such discoveries in the world.

Wanuskewin Heritage Park interprets 6,000 years of Northern Plains Indian Culture.

The Athabasca Sand Dunes are among the most northerly major sand dunes in the world, and among the largest in North America.

Fast Facts

Tourism adds $1.3 - $1.4 billion to the provincial economy each year.

Tourism plays a role in the jobs of more than 60,000 people in Saskatchewan - one in every eight workers.

Tourism in Saskatchewan is an export industry, with nearly half a billion in export sales.

Source - 2006 SaskSecrets Tourism Bookmark

Whether you arrive by land or air in Regina, the community seems to sprout right out of the flat prairie.  Its skyline towers over the crops in the fields that surround it. Regina began as an agricultural community, providing a distribution point for farm materials and produce for a wide area.  In the early 1880s, there was little here, besides fertile land, a small creek and a great deal of potential.

Originally called Pile of Bones because of the huge piles of bones left in the area by First Nations hunters, the community was renamed REGINA (Latin for Queen) after Queen Victoria who was the monarch at the time.  It has been the "Queen City" ever since.

The arrival of the railroad in 1883 led to rapid growth of the small village.  Immigrants from Europe and the US brought fertile homesteads for just $10.  Regina became the capital of the immense, 2.5 million square mile North West Territories - a land larger than present day Europe.  Also in 1883, the North West Mounted Police moved their headquarters to Regina.  The Royal Canadian Mounted Police training facility is still in the city and Regina is proud to be "home of the RCMP."

Regina grew quickly during its first few years, becoming a city in 1903.  When Saskatchewan became a province in 1905, Regina was chosen as its capital.  Construction of the Saskatchewan Legislative building began in 1910.  The creek passing in front of the Legislature was dammed and the lake became the focus for a large park.  It later became the Wascana Centre Authority, one of North Americas largest urban parks.

Drought and poor crops slowed Regina's rapid growth in the 1910's and '20s.  A tornado in 1912 devastated much of the downtown.  The economy of Regina and region is now strong and diversified.  Though farming remains a core industry, oil, potash, finance, telecommunications, natural gas, filmmaking, steel pipe production, and technology are very important.  An oil up grader and refinery takes Saskatchewan's heavy crude and turns it into gasoline and other products.  Potash and nitrogen-based fertilizers are produced in plants west of the city.  A steel pipe manufacturing plant has been located here since the 1950's. 

The Research Park at the University of Regina is working on technologies vital to our future, such as greenhouse gases and their effect on global warming.  As provincial capital, Regina is also home to head offices of most Crown-owned operations, as well as many federal regional offices.

Population

2002: 187,441 - Saskatchewan Health

2003: 190,093 - Projected Population, City of Regina 16th largest city in Canada.

Regina's population is ethnically and culturally diverse, with immigrants from the United Kingdom, Europe, Asia, Africa and the United States.

Location

Latitude: 50 degrees 27' North.  Longitude: 104 degrees 37' West

Elevation: 577.4 meters above sea level

Area: The city covers 118.4 sq. km (45.7 sq MI)

Regina is situated in south central Saskatchewan on the Trans-Canada Highway.  It is

approximately midway between Calgary, Alberta and Winnipeg, Manitoba.  Saskatchewan sits above the American states of North Dakota and Montana.

Climate

Regina's climate is continental with warm summers and cold, dry winters.  It is the sunniest capital city in Canada with an average of 2,365 sunshine hours each year.  Precipitation averages 364 mm (14 in) each year, with most of it falling as summer rains.

Resources

Natural resources are a very important part of Regina's economy.  Oil and gas, potash, sodium sulphate, betonite, kaolin and other natural resources are found in southeastern and south-central Saskatchewan.

Industry

Regina has been named one of the most affordable places to do business in western North America several times over the past few years.  The Regina and Region Economic Development Authority has been established to attract new business to the area and to foster growth of existing businesses.

Here are a few of Regina's thriving industries:

• Insurance, financial and data management services
• Telecommunications
• Oil and natural gas exploration and production
• Agricultural chemicals and equipment
• Film and video production
• Call centers
• Potash and nitrogen fertilizer production

Housing

Regina has some of the most affordable housing in Canada.  The average selling price of a home in the first half of 2003 was $103,768 (according to the Association of Regina Realtors).

Education

Regina has two school boards and systems, each supports by property taxes.  The Regina Public School Board administers all public elementary and high schools, while Regina Catholic School Board runs elementary and high schools with a Roman Catholic affiliation.  There are 75 elementary schools and 14 high schools in the two systems.  A third school board, the Division Scolaire Francophone, administers the kindergarten through grade 12 school, French-language Monseigneur de Laval.

The Wascana Campus of the Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology (SIAST) offers full-time or part-time training in agriculture, industrial and technical trades, health sciences, dental, adult basic education, business and general studies.

The University of Regina and its federated colleges - Campion and Luther - provide academic training and research in a variety of fields, from engineering to journalism.  The language Institute offers training in many languages to students from around the world.  The campus is also home to a large research and development park.  Important research into greenhouse gases, petroleum technology, and sustainable communities is taking place there.

The First Nations University of Canada (formerly the Saskatchewan Indian Federated College) is the only university-level institution in North America developed and run by First Nations peoples.

Libraries

The Regina Public Library system is one of the top ten in Canada, offering a wealth of resources to local residents.  There are nine locations serving the community, as well as online searching capabilities.  The library also has a top-notch art gallery and a repertory film theatre.

Transportation

Regina is located on the Trans-Canada Highway, about 100 miles north of the American border.  It is also on the CN mainline.  The Regina International Airport is the oldest in Canada and is served by six regular carriers, as well as charter service.  Over 100 trucking and courier companies provide transportation of goods.  Four scheduled bus companies also serve the community.

Utilities

Water, sewer and residential garbage services are municipally owned.  SaskPower and SaskEnergy are provincial Crown corporations, which provide electricity and natural gas, respectively.  Another Crown corporation, SaskTel, provides local telecommunications services.  Mobile or cellular and long-distance phone services are provided by a number of firms, including Sasktel.

Media

Eight English-language and one French-language radio stations serve the community.  As well, there are three English-language and French-language television stations, a community access cable station, one daily newspaper, a Sunday community newspaper, a French newspaper, and bi-weekly community paper.

Recreation and Culture

Regina's early settlers planted trees and shrubs that turned the community into a park-like oasis on the prairies.  We now have over 30,000 trees - most of which were hand planted.

Regina is also home to over 100 parks, the largest of which is Wascana Centre.  This 930-hectare (2300 acre) park is home to some of Regina's most popular attractions, including the Legislative Building, Saskatchewan Centre of the Arts, MacKenzie Art Gallery, Royal Saskatchewan Museum, and the Saskatchewan Science Centre.

Government House is the oldest building in the city and was formerly the home of the Lieutenant Governors of the North West Territories and the Province of Saskatchewan.  It has been returned to its Victorian Age splendor and offers free tours.

The Devonian Pathway is an eight-kilometer asphalt mutli-use trail running along Wascana Creek from east to west.  Designed for cycling, walking or jogging in the summer and cross-country skiing in the winter, it features rest spots and rain shelters.

The Saskatchewan Centre of the Arts is home to the Regina Symphony Orchestra, Canada's oldest continuously operating symphony orchestra.  Besides hosting traveling shows such as "Cats," the Centre also showcases local talent.

The RCMP's training academy and their Centennial Museum are among Regina's most popular tourist destinations.  The Museum offers the history of the worlds most recognized and most admired police force, from its founding in 1873 to the present.  Visitors can also see how recruits are trained.

Regina has many art galleries, both public and private.  The MacKenzie Art Gallery in the T.C. Douglas Building is the largest.  Each June it hosts Saskatchewan's largest outdoor art and craft show on the grounds.

Regina is home to hundreds of recreation facilities, from the 8,300 square meter Sportplex with its competitive-sized pool to Canada's best lawn-bowling green.  There are five municipally owned golf courses, over 200 athletic fields, an indoor and an outdoor skateboarding facility, a BMX track, biking trails, an Olympic-sized track, swimming pools, speed skating, oval, rugby and soccer fields, and a cricket pitch.  Whatever sport you're involved in, chances are you'll find the facilities in Regina.

Exhibition Park is Canada's second-largest trade show and exhibition facility.  Each summer it hosts the Buffalo Days exhibition, Saskatchewan's provincial fair.  It is also home to the Canadian Western Agribition, the second largest cattle show in North America, held in late November/early December.  Each June the park also hosts the Western Canada Farm Progress Show, a world-caliber showcase of dryland farming equipment and technology.

The Saskatchewan Science Centre provides a hands-on experience of science and the world around us.  Films shown on the five-storey screen at the IMAX Theatre make you feel you're part of the action - from aboard the Shuttle to thousands of feet below the sea.

The Royal Saskatchewan Museum showcases the natural history of Saskatchewan and other parts of the world, from pre-history to the present.  The First Nations Gallery gives glimpses into the life of the people who lived in this area before European settlers arrived.

Casino Regina is housed in the historic Union Station.  The new show lounge offers food, music and entertainment.  It's one of Regina's most popular destinations.

Jinan:  Our Sister City

Regina has been twinned with Jinan, in the Shandong province of China, since 1987.  The purpose is to develop exchanges that will lead to more co-operation in trade, science and technology, culture, education and civic administration.

Source - 2006 Regina: Profile of Our Capital City

Who We Are: Mission Statement

The Regina Open Door Society (RODS) is a non-profit organization that provides settlement and integration services to refugees and immigrants in Regina.  RODS is committed to meeting the needs of newcomers by offering programs and services that enable them to achieve their goals and participate fully in the larger community.

RODS Objectives Are To:

•  Assist immigrants and promote their adjustment to and participation in the Saskatchewan Community.
•  Promote and extend community services to refugees and immigrants to foster greater awareness and understanding between newcomers and the community.
• Seek to establish facilities for intercultural, educational and social activities.

Settlement and Integration Services

Feeling at Home in Canada

As a settlement agency, RODS provides newcomers with the following services:

• Meeting and welcoming government assisted newcomers upon arrival.
• Temporary accommodation in RODS reception house.
• Assistance obtaining permanent residence.
• Interpretation/translation
• Counseling, support and orientation.
• Assistance with financial matters such as Income Tax preparation, National Child Tax Benefit applications and Immigration/Transportation Loan repayment.
• Assistance with the preparation of Immigration documents/applications.
• Escort and/or referral to other federal, provincial, municipal and private agencies in the community.

Please note that some of the above services may be available for government-assisted refugees only.

Host and Volunteer Program

Building New Friendships

 Host families are volunteers who provide friendship and support to newcomer refugees and immigrants in order to assist with their settlement process into the Regina Community.

RODS also uses volunteers as ESL tutors, support group workers and as special event helpers.

RODS offers orientation, training and ongoing support to all of its hosts and volunteers.

The overall goal of all volunteerism at RODS is to build friendships!

Community Services

Information and Involvement

The community services program enables refugees and immigrants to become active participants in Canadian society through a range of activities and opportunities.  Included are the following activities and groups:

• Orientation and information on a variety of topics
• Recreational and Social Activities
• Citizenship Preparation
• Client advocacy
• Youth Programs
• Immigrant Seniors Group
• Presentations to groups and organizations
• Assistance in completing applications for citizenship, passport and travel documents
• Liaison with Multicultural & Newcomer Communities
• Class 7 Written Drivers Examination
• Computer Classes

Informal community and organizational support are readily available.

Summer Activities for Children

RODS offers recreational and educational opportunities for refugee and immigrant children during the summer months.  While attending the program, children participate in language learning exercises, as well as community orientation and fun summer activities.

Employment Services

Recognizing Skills and Diversity 

RODS offers support to all newcomers seeking employment, through:

• Individual Counseling
• Goal Orientation
• Career Planning
• Resume' Preparation
• Job Search Techniques
• Job Referrals
• Job Finding Club
• STEPS to Employment Classes
• Facilitation of Qualifications Recognition

Employers in the community can contact our office for a list of pre-screened candidates or resumes of potential candidates for hiring purposes. 

The STEPS to Employment classes provide instruction on a range of issues, including Canadian work culture, interview skills, employer expectations, resume writing and Labor Standards.

FIT - Families in Transition

Enabling Families

Delivered by a professional Social Worker, the Families in Transition program provides direct support to recently arrived immigrants in their efforts to successfully adapt and integrate into the Regina Community. 

FIT offers personal and family counseling, as well as education and preventative workshops.  The program is also responsible for enhancing RODS working relationship with the mainstream service providers.

Source - Regina Open Door Society Immigrant Service Agency Information Pamphlet

In the last five years, employment in Regina has grown by an average of 950 jobs per year.

From 2003 and 2004, 1,800 young people (ages 15 to 29) moved to Regina from elsewhere in Saskatchewan, 1,300 moved here from another province and 200 from another country.

The average selling price of a house in Regina is $120,658.  Compare that to $245,704 in Calgary, $430,471 in Vancouver and $325,985 in Toronto.

This means that the average home in Regina is within reach for a young person because monthly mortgage payments can be $775 or lower.

Regina has vibrant arts, cultural and recreational scenes that provide many appealing social opportunities for young people.

Want to know more?

Contact the RREDA office at 306 791 4702

Or email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Source - Regina Regional Economic Development Authority Information Pamphlet

Regina is a great place to conduct and own businesses, with the lowest business operating costs in Western Canada and the United States.  Currently, more than 5000 businesses are operating in Regina and the number is growing.  A strong and skilled labor force is one of the key underpinnings of the economy. 

"The current business climate in Regina is very positive, coming off of a year of record growth compared to all other major cities in Canada," says Larry Hiles, president and chief executive officer of the Regina Regional Economic Development Authority (RREDA).  "We are no longer thought of as just a government centre, but as a city that is full of business opportunities."

More than 200,000 individuals call Regina home and one out of every five residents hold a university degree.  Employees are qualified in a number of diverse fields to ensure that employers will find the perfect employee match for their needs.  Only 4% of residents here are unemployed, which is a direct indication of Regina's strong economy.

The latest comparison of metropolitan cities in Western Canada indicates Regina is one of the leaders in labor force participation with a rate of 72.58% in 2003.  The rate is significantly higher than Vancouver's rate of 66.41% and slightly higher than Edmonton's 71.73% and Winnipeg's 71.60% rates.

Elliot says that one of the benefits of working in the city is the short commute.  "Among those with a usual place of work outside their home, Regina residents have a median 4.5 km drive to work, compared with, for example, 9.2 km in Toronto and 7.7 km in Calgary.

Regina's multi-faceted transportation and distribution network.

Situated in the heart of the prairies with great access to markets in western and eastern Canada, as well as a two hour drive north of the American border, makes Regina an ideal place to establish an exporting business.

John Treleaven, President and CEO of the Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership, a non-profit export development corporation, says Regina is ideally suited for companies with their on exporting across Canada and into the United States.

"Links to the global marketplace are the lifeblood of business in Regina," he says.  "In 2001, 131 companies in Regina exported $1 billion worth of product to the national marketplace.  Many more Regina-based businesses supply customers across Canada.  To succeed as entrepreneurs, skilled workers and investors, we are and will always be dependant upon an efficient, competitive transportation network."

The city is home to such a network, which includes rail, air and truck transport.  Inside the city, buses and taxis ensure business people and residents can make it to their destination safely and on time.

Regina is situated along the Trans-Canada Highway, which provides easy access to neighboring provinces and communities.  There is access to two United States border crossings - North Portal vie Highway No. 39 and Regway via Highway No. 6.  North Portal is a desirable entrance to the United States since it has relatively few delays.

The city is primarily situated along two main roadways - Ring Road and Lewvan Expressway - to ensure travel from one end of the city to another in 15 minutes or less.  Other main roads in the city include:  Albert Street, Broad Street, Victoria Avenue and Saskatchewan Drive.  Albert and Broad connect the north and south ends, while Victoria and Saskatchewan Drive run east and west in Regina and Victoria Avenue's recent expansion is creating faster commutes in the east end.

Air Canada, West Jet, TransWest, and Northwest Airlines are all regular airline providers at the Regina International Airport.  The modern airport is smaller than other international airports, which reduces the number of passengers, crowds and time delays at customs and check-in counters.

Every month roughly 70,000 individuals fly in and out of Regina.  In 2004, nearly 730,000 passengers passed through the airport, and that number is expected to climb to 800,000 in 2005.  Accessibility, convenience and safety are key elements at the airport.

"We offer daily commutes to Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Minneapolis/St. Paul, and Toronto.  These include the business centers in Canada and establish links to the global economy," says Rob Singer, CEO of the Airport Authority.

Regina's airport is conveniently located within 10 minutes of the hotels in the downtown area.  "The airports proximity to Regina's downtown district and major traffic arteries has made it very attractive for new business and commercial land development,' says Singer.  "The airport has approximately 33 acres of prime land available for development which are suitable for office, warehouse, hospitality, retail, light industrial, aircraft, maintenance and distribution businesses."

The air terminal building is currently undergoing expansion and redevelopment to meet the needs of the traveling public to 2021.  The $23 million upgrade will enable the airport to handle more passengers per year at a faster rate and create a better overall environment for passengers.

Learning Ranks High in Regina.

Regina was founded in 1882 and its first school was established a year later.  That commitment to learning is still a defining characteristic of Saskatchewan's capitol city.

Today Regina is home to the University of Regina (U of R), the First Nations University of Canada, the Wascana Campus of Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology (SIAST), strong public and Catholic school systems, private schools and a French school division.

There are nearly 12,800 full and part-time students enrolled at the U of R.  "While we are a comprehensive university, offering doctorate-level degrees, our foundation has a liberal arts orientation," says Barbara Pollock, vice-president (external relations).  "We are well-known for quality programming in Education, Justice Studies, Journalism and Engineering; world-class research enterprise in Health Studies, Physics and Energy/Environment sectors, and a strong connection to our community."

The annual Maclean's Magazine rankings of universities show the University of Regina to be in the middle of all comprehensive universities in Canada.  "We are interested in the Maclean's rankings and contribute to the analysis annually - with prospective students and families reading it, it is important for us to be included," says Pollock.  "However, as with most institutions, the factors that Maclean's thinks are important are not necessarily high in our priorities, and there are programs, services and philosophy that are important to us - such as our involvement with Aboriginal students' programming - that Maclean ignores."

The First Nations University of Canada, located on the U of R campus, is the only one of its kind in Canada.  It is a First Nations-controlled university which offers educational opportunities to First Nations and non-First Nations students selected from a provincial, national and international base.  The university encompasses 10 academic departments, an Indigenous Center for International Development, and two satellite offices in La Ronge and Regina to coordinate and provide academic programming in local First Nations communities.

The university offers non-academic learning opportunities through two special project departments.  The aboriginal Cultural Awareness Program provides awareness sessions to government, Crown and corporate business.  The Aboriginal Youth Leadership Development Program provides leadership development to young Aboriginal adults.

The First Nations University of Canada has developed international agreements with indigenous peoples and institutions from around the world.  It has partnered with 27 international agreements, which has helped create an awareness of the socio-political and culture of indigenous peoples on a global scale.

For technical education and skills training, students look to SIAST as the provinces pre-eminent provider.  "We have approximately 12,000 students enrolled across the province at campuses in Regina, Saskatoon, Moose Jaw and Prince Albert.  Wascana Campus, in Regina, has approximately 2,700 students and nearly 400 faculty and staff," says Grant Bastedo of SIAST marketing and communications.

More than 92% of SIAST graduates are employed within six months of completing their courses.  Other things that set the school apart are relatively short programs (two years or less), low teacher-student ratio and prior learning recognition programs that give credit for past educational and work experience.

These programs include Exceptional Learning Through the Arts and Music programs for elementary and high school students.  French immersion and other core language programs are offered in French, Ukrainian, Cree, Spanish and English as a Second Language.

The schools include bullying prevention program and a number of programs for special needs students.  Academic programs include the International Baccalaureate that challenges advanced students to follow a rigorous Grades 11 and 12 programs.  Students may take university classes for credit while still in high school.

"We are very proud of our students' achievements and our rich learning environment that helps every individual student achieve their potential," says Brown.  "According to the Canadian Achievement Test 3, Grade 9 results in 2004, our students exceeded Canadian norms in reading, language, computation/estimation and spelling."

More than 10,000 students are enrolled in the Regina Catholic School system from kindergarten to Grade 12 in 24 elementary schools, four high schools and one kindergarten to Grade 12 alternative school.  Of those, four elementary schools and two high schools are French immersion.  There are seven community schools and one of the elementary schools provides special education for students with multiple challenges.

The mission of the Regina Catholic school division is to work with the community and the local church to provide a quality Catholic education fostering academic excellence and the development of informed, responsible citizens.  A wide variety of educational programs based on Saskatchewan Learning curricula within the context of the Catholic education is offered.

Parents are seen as the primary educators of their children and the school as an extension of the family.  Parents are encouraged to participate in their local school community and there are opportunities for them to become involved in a number of ways.

Regina has several private schools, such as Western Christian College and High School, which combines spirituality academics, athletics and arts; CDI College, which provides training courses in business, technology and health care; and New Media Campus, which specializes in animation.  As well, Regina is home to the only French school division in the province - division scolarie francophone -, which allows students to receive a Francophone education, enriched with cultural, ethical and social values.

Integrated Health Care at Zero Premiums

"Two of the most important aspects of our region's health care system are zero premiums and the integration of service," says Lori Foster, Public Affairs Consultant for Regina Qu'Appelle Health Region.  "In Saskatchewan, you get your health services card by simply being a resident of the province and do not pay a premium to get that card.  Also, as an integrated health care organization, everything from emergency medical service to home care is included."

Acute care, rehabilitation and community services at the three broad areas in which integrated services are offered in the Region.  Under these three umbrellas' dwells a wide range of services.

Acute care is offered at two provincial hospitals.  Regina General Hospital and Pasqua Hospital.  Rehabilitation services include acquired brain injury outreach, adult rehabilitation, children's program, functional rehabilitation and prosthetics / orthotics.  Community services run the gamut from alcohol and drug services to home care, mental health, and population and public services.

A network of community health centers in the region provides services uniquely fitted to the needs of the different communities.  At the Al Ritchie Health Action Centre, for example, staff co-ordinate access to various health services and offers a prenatal nutrition program.  They take orders for the Good Food Box, assist with transportation, and help residents to work with agencies such as the Rentalsman, the Family Service Bureau and Social Services.

The Wascana Rehabilitation Centre provides medical rehabilitation programs including functional rehabilitation, amputee services, spinal cord injury services and orthopedics, children's services, adult rehabilitation, extended care and veteran's services.  It has 307 beds - 43 for rehabilitation inpatients, 205 for specialized long-term care clients, five for children and 54 beds for clients placed through Veterans Affairs.

Palliative care is the integrated management of the physical, psychological, social, spiritual, and existential needs of patients, especially those with incurable, progressive illnesses.  The Pasqua Palliative Care Unit at Regina's Pasqua Hospital is nationally renowned.

"The facility has been visited by Princess Anne, Prince Charles and Senator Sharon Carstairs.  These visitors came to see the unit because they had heard about our program," says Foster.  The Palliative Care Unit provides a private room for each patient as well as access to a family room / kitchen where they can spend time with their visitors in a home-like atmosphere.

Future plans in the Regina Qu'Appelle region include the new Centre for Mother Baby Care at Regina General Hospital, which will update and expand the current obstetrical units at the hospital.  The centre will incorporate state-of-the-art medical technology into a home-like atmosphere for new moms and babies.  Plans include larger birthing rooms equipped with emergency apparatus, bedroom-like furniture for all private post-delivery rooms and expanded care units.

Information Technology and Telecommunications thrive in Regina

Although not one of Canada's largest cities, Regina has developed a world-class telecommunications and information technology community.  Robert Watson, David Luterback and Chris Krywulak are three leaders within that community.

Robert Watson was named chief executive officer in Sasktel in December 2004.  He has headed companies such as Shaw Fiberlink, Shaw Mobilecomm, W/C Connexus and GT Fiberlink.  Before relocating to Regina, he served as the vice president of business development with GT Grout Telecom/360 Networks in Vancouver.

He connects the inborn pioneer spirit of Saskatchewan people with this provinces success in the field of telecommunications and information technology.  "Then entrepreneurial spirit of this province has been evident from the very beginning," he says, "and as such, Regina has continued to be a hotbed for telecommunications and information technology."

He adds that Sasktel, through Sasktel International, has developed a presence away from home by winning project management and consulting projects around the world and bring back revenues of more than $486 million to the province.

"I was really excited to be relocating to Regina and particularly excited about the opportunity to lead a corporation that has established itself as the home team in this province," he says.  "There is something to be said for the comfort and safety of a communications company that has been here right from the very beginning.  I truly believe Regina will provide my family and me with that same comfort and safety."

David Luterback, president of TMC (Technology Management Corporation) convocated from the University of Regina in 1986 with a Bachelor of Administration degree.  He worked in the information technology (IT) industry for seven years for various companies such as IBM, EDS, Massachusetts Financial, and Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food.

He maintains that Regina is one of the best places in North America in which to establish a business.  The cost of doing business is relatively low; the people are well trained, hard working and dedicated.  And with current technologies, it is possible to do business from anywhere.

"I like being able to prop my laptop up while sitting outside (breathing in that clean Saskatchewan air) or sitting in a coffee shop, communicating with potential clients from all over the globe," he says.  "Regina has always been a place of firsts.  Notably, the Saskatchewan Legislature in Regina was the birthplace of Medicare, and the Regina-based Credit Union developed the first ATM technology.  Regina is a close-knit community, making it an ideal place for the sharing of ideas."

Opportunities In Regina's housing and commercial properties.

For businesses looking to expand or invest in Regina, the city has outstanding industrial, commercial and retail opportunities.  Employees who relocated to the city find extremely affordable housing prices and an improved quality of life, which makes living in the Queen City a terrific experience.

"If I had to provide a state of the union address on the commercial market, I would say it's strong and positive," says Scott Predenchuck, Chair of the Association of Regina Realtor's Commercial Division.  "You do not see the peaks and valleys you see in other cities' economies here in Regina.  We have very safe, long-term growth for commercial properties."

The City offers the lowest average price per acre for the land over any other metropolitan city in Canada.  An average acre of land costs approximately $50,000 in Regina, whereas in Vancouver the cost is approximately $590,000, and in Toronto approximately $190,000.

Construction costs for operations are lower in Regina.  For instance, by building either a 50,000 square foot warehouse or an office complex in Regina, a business will save between $104,000 and $476,000.  As well, between $115,000 and $527,000 can be saved if the business invests in the construction of a similar-sized factory.

For businesses looking for rental office space, Regina offers some of the most cost-effective prices found in Canada's metropolitan centers.  On average, industrial space costs less than $5 per square foot, while suburban and central office space runs for less than $10 per square foot.

Predenchuck, a RE/Max realtor, says these advantages have been noted by a number of large companies.  Farm Credit Canada and Canada Life both relocated their head offices in Regina, in part because of the lower real estate costs.

"Many companies are now realizing our advantages," says Predenchuck.  "On the southeast side of Regina there was approximately a half-million square feet of new development last year.  Drive by this year and you will see two or three cement pads for new buildings and others which are under construction."

Just as opportunities abound with the commercial properties, the same is true for residential markets.  Joyce Tourney of Joyce Tourney Realty says housing prices are extremely attractive for anyone wanting to buy a home.

"We have some of the lowest priced housing in the country," she says, "It is a very good investment because you know it will increase in value over time."

The Regina average multiple listing service price is one-half of the nation average so it is very easy for young families and first-time buyers to enter the market.  Tourney says she has worked with many people who have relocated to the city and they are impressed with the prices, and the improved quality of life.  Young families are especially impressed with the recreational facilities and strong educational system, while business people appreciate the flight connections that allow them to conduct business internationally.

Cliff Iverson, president of the Regina Realtors, says home prices have been steadily increasing for many years, accumulating equity for homeowners.  "With the affordability of Regina's housing market, many renters are able to buy a home with monthly payments being the same or even lower than rent payments.  While mortgage rates may increase slightly, they are expected to remain at historically low levels."

Alice Russel, executive director of the Regina Home Builders Association, adds that many people come to the city looking for the financial benefits of owning a home.  "Low mortgage rates, good investments providing appreciating values, and affordability of new homes is helping to drive this demand.," she says.  "Consumers can own a new home and pay less on a mortgage than rent.  Consumers understand that there is pride in ownership and this is very important to citizens through Canada, not just Regina."

Regina Offers Outstanding Quality of Life.

It may be Canada's best-kept secret.  It contains genuine hospitality, plenty of unique neighborhoods, family activities, a strong cultural community, great sporting opportunities, and much more.  The secret is Regina and it's getting harder to keep it as a secret as more people are attracted to its charms.


Founded in 1882, Regina has grown over the years to become a cosmopolitan center of business, industry and government.  Its quality of life is second to none and once people live there, they do not want to leave.  A case in point is Marty Klyne, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation, which operates casinos in Regina and Moose Jaw.

"I have lived and worked in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and worked out of a suitcase for extended periods in Calgary and Vancouver and came home to Regina for its sense of community and belonging," says Klyne, who also has other independent small business interests in Regina.  "The added bonus is Regina's short commute times, allowing me to keep my busy business life without missing time with my pre-school son.  When I lived in the GTA, I could not have had that same luxury."

Klyne is frequently called upon to travel to other destinations and he says Regina's airport connections serve the business community well.  He serves on boards that require him to travel extensively from the Maritimes to the West Coast and with direct flights to Toronto, Vancouver and Calgary; he can easily reach his destinations.

Beyond business reasons, Klyne adds it is a perfect place to raise a family.  "Regina is a safe community where your neighbors know you by name and always have time for a neighborly chat.  Family activities and amenities abound - whatever your taste.  I would not want to raise my family anywhere else."

Regina truly combines big city amenities with a small town atmosphere.  In recent years the city has been growing leaps and bounds.  The east and northwest areas have experienced tremendous economic booms with the introduction of several big box retailers such as Rona's, Best Buy, and London Drugs.  New restaurants and retail outlets such as Chapters have sprung up in south Regina and the city is home to numerous neighborhoods, each with their own special qualities where people can live, work and play.

The Cathedral area, for example, is home to a strip of locally owned businesses, mainly gift boutiques, clothing stores, restaurants and coffee houses, attracting an eclectic clientele.  Since many of the city's prominent artists live in the community, the area is home to the annual Cathedral Village Arts Festival, which showcases literature, film, art, dance, music and theatre.  The highlight is a street fair featuring crafts and dance.

Another area fast becoming a popular neighborhood is Regina's Old Warehouse District.  Named in honor of the historic buildings that dot the landscape, it is "a fun, funky kind of area, which attracts a lot of people," says Bruce Anderson, executive director of the Old Warehouse District, a business improvement district.  It contains a number of bars, pubs, lounges and restaurants to create a focal point for Regina's nightlife.

"Several years ago, we set out a 20-year development plan calling for aggressive growth," offers Anderson.  "Already, we are the city's hospitality district, and have dominant clusters in many retail and service sectors.  New businesses and new developments are locating in the district, and there is a new awareness from the community about how dynamic the area is becoming."

The are several major projects currently underway in the district, including the expansion of the hospitality strip on Dewdney Avenue.  "There are amazing residential and condominium opportunities, ranging in size from 1,000 to 4,000 square feet.  There are the emerging shopping, specialty, and independent service shops and retail outlets," says Anderson.

There is increased interest in converting some of the warehouse space into artists' live/work spaces as well as student housing since it offers outstanding transit connections to the University of Regina or the Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology (SIAST).

One of the interesting projects underway in the district is the creating of vintage advertising signs and murals.  "We are taking some old ads from 1920's publication and putting them on the sides of our buildings," says Anderson.

Regina's downtown is a unique neighborhood.  It is home to major retailers such as The Bay and Sears, numerous independent businesses including gift shops and restaurants, a large park, central library, and a variety of housing options.

"Regina's downtown is currently experiencing a level of activity unprecedented in recent years and this economic activity is expected to continue," says Tracy Fahlman of Regina Downtown.

Some of the most recent developments in the city center include opening of almost 50 new businesses over the past two years, growth in the hospitality, residential and entertainment sectors, and the introduction of new annual events in Victoria Park including the Taste of Regina, a summer food festival, and the Downtown Ice and Fire Winter Carnival.

In the near future, the downtown will see the opening of a new Government of Canada Building in a former shopping mall, and Century Plaza will open and house a major provincial government department and Harvard Broadcasting's head office and three radio stations.  Further residential growth is expected, including the opening of The Renaissance, downtowns newest 165-unit retirement residential complex which will be occupied by hundreds of residents and downtown employees.

"Positive impacts of growing the residential population in and around downtown include having a larger population base to support existing downtown businesses and activities, and a more efficient use of the existing infrastructure.  Increased pedestrian traffic, especially in the evening, helps make the area attractive to investors and new businesses," says Fahlman.

These developments complement the city's existing attractions, shopping districts, and parks.  Many people make their home near Wascana Park, one of North Americas largest man-made parks, which contains 2,300 acres of green, tree lined park with kilometers of pathways.  Wascana Lake, located in the center of the park, underwent a major rejuvenation when it was deepened by about 15 feet over the 2003-04 winter.  Wascana Center is home to a number of events including the Dragon Boat Festival and the Canada Day Rowing Regatta.

No description of the quality of life in Regina would be complete without discussing the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.  No other city in the country can lay claim to being the home of the world-famous RCMP.  Recruits from across the country conduct their training in Regina and their museum attracts visitors from around the world.

Regina is home to a vibrant cultural community.  The Regina Symphony Orchestra is the oldest continuously performing orchestra in Canada, and it makes its home in one of the country's most acoustically perfect theatres - the Saskatchewan Center of the Arts.  The Center is a world-class facility and attracts major entertainment acts to Regina.  The city contains a number of live music venues, drama, and Aboriginal and ethnic programs.

For the sports fans, there is the Saskatchewan Roughriders, who are cheered on by world's greatest fans and the exciting end-to-end action of the Regina Pats of the Western Hockey League.  There are 11 golf courses, an Olympic-sized pool at the Sportplex, tennis courts, and biking and hiking trails.

Heritage is an important part of Regina's quality of life.  Government house, recently upgraded to include a visitor's center, museum storage, catering facilities, and interpretive center, is the original home of the Lieutenant Governor.  The Saskatchewan Legislature is an outstanding structure, and the Old Post building downtown, now called the Prince Edward Building, is home to the Globe Theatre and several shops.

Despite having all these amenities, Regina has maintained its small town charm.  You are sure to see a friendly face when you are shopping for groceries or taking your kids to the museum.  It is that charm which makes Regina a great place to call home.

Source - 2006 Regina Destination Magazine

Distances by Highway:

Construction Costs

The cost of building a factory or a warehouse / office complex is significantly less in Regina than in any other corporate centre in Western Canada.

For Instance, savings in the order of $115,000 to $527,000 can be realized by building a 50,000 sq. ft. warehouse / office complex respectively.

Combined with the price of industrial land, it gives the city of Regina a tremendous cost advantage when choosing a location for a large manufacturing business.

Office and Industrial Rental Rates

When the size of business dictates the need to move into existing office of industrial space, Regina’s rental rates are considered very attractive.  Graph 7.0 illustrates Regina’s rental rates cost advantages in comparison to other major metropolitan centers in Western Canada.

Cost of Doing Business Summary

When all the costs of establishing and running a business in the Regina region are factored in and compared to other corporate centers in Canada, the United States and abroad, the Regina has the a lower business cost environment.

What does this mean for businesses that decide to settle here?  Lower cost structure compared to competition, more money to reinvest into the company to improve efficiencies and productivity and improved shareholder value.

Cost of Living

Affordable Housing

The Regina Region offers homebuyers a variety of homes, neighborhoods and prices.  There are many options to choose from such as a downtown condominium, a California style home in the southeast end of the city, a traditional farm home near Lumsden, or a lakeside home at Regina Beach.

Value for money comes to mind when shopping for a home in the Regina Region.  Homeowners relocating to the Regina Region can afford to move up in the housing market, write down their mortgages, or invest the cash difference elsewhere.

The most recent report from Royal LePage indicates that the City of Regina maintains one of the lowest housing prices in Canada.

Taxes and Household Charges

Regina compares favorably with other jurisdictions when it comes to total sales and household charges for a family of four with a total household income of $50,000.  In fact, total taxes and household charges in Regina are lower at $25,000, $50,000 and $75,000 income levels compared to other major cities in Canada. The following table and graph illustrate this point for a family of four with total income of $50,000.

A new provincial income tax system will further protect and enhance Regina’s favorable cost of living position.  This means more disposable income for Regina families.

Saskatchewan Legislative Building

Built from 1908-1912, the building was designed to reflect the architecture of English Renaissance and Louis XVI of France.  Formal gardens and daily-guided tours add to visitors’ enjoyment.

Casino Regina

Casino Regina is Saskatchewan’s number one tourist attraction, welcoming over one million visitors annually.  Western Canada’s finest full-service casino is located in Regina’s historic and beautifully restored Union Train Station and features a restaurant, show lounge, and gift shop.  Guests enjoy the custom designed Poker Room and a large variety of popular games, including 620 slot machines, progressive and mystery jackpots, electronic horse racing, blackjack, poker baccarat and roulette.

Regina Symphony Orchestra

One of Regina’s most distinguished cultural institutions, the Regina Symphony Orchestra (RSO) is Canada’s oldest continuously performing symphony orchestra.  Guest conductors and performers from around the world often join the RSO.

Art Galleries

The MacKenzie Art Gallery is one of Saskatchewan’s finest public galleries, featuring an excellent collection of art ranging from historical to contemporary works by Canadian, American and international artists.  Other private and public galleries include the  Dunlop at the Regina Public Library with its fine permanent collection and popular traveling exhibits.

Theatres

Globe Theatre has been a part of Regina and the community of southern Saskatchewan for over thirty years.  Founded in 1966 by Ken and Sue Kramer, the Globe was Saskatchewan’s first professional theatre company and has grown to become the provinces largest arts organization.  Today, the Theatre is housed in downtown Regina in a designated heritage site.  Regina Little Theatre was founded in 1926, and it the oldest, continually producing, English-speaking theatre group in Western Canada.  Regina Little Theatre is a community theatre company that engages primarily amateur and professional participants in all aspects of production and administration.

Regina Sportplex

The Regina Sportplex is one of the largest fitness facilities in Saskatchewan.  It includes a 90,000 square foot Field house (featuring a track, tennis and badminton courts, and a weight room), the Olympic-size Lawson Aquatic Centre (sauna, whirlpool, diving), an on-site cafeteria and ample parking.  Individuals or organizations may purchase passes or rent the entire Field house or pool.

Golf Courses

Regina residents love their golf.  In fact, Saskatchewan has more golf courses per capita and residents play more rounds of golf per capita than anywhere in the world.  In 1999, Saskatchewan’s first golf course, the Regina Golf Club, joined an elite group of only five courses in Canada to receive the honor of Royal designation by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth.

Wascana Centre

Wascana Centre is the largest urban park in North America.  It is a four-season recreational environment, spanning some 2,300 acres.  The man-made park, in the heart of downtown Regina, includes Wascana Lake and Willow Island, a secluded picnic island served by ferryboat.  Windsurfers and canoeists launch their craft from the Wascana Marina.  Thousands of outdoor enthusiasts cycle, roller blade, jog, and walk through the park in the summer, and cross-country ski and ice skate in the winter.  The park is home for a number of Regina’s most popular visitor attractions, as well as one of the major facilities to be used during the Canada Summer Games in August of 2005 and Canoe/Kayak Championships in August of 2006.

Conclusion

According to the study, Regina has the sixth lowest overall business cost of the 64 cities examined in eight countries (Austria, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, United Kingdom and the United States), the lowest in Western Canada, all of the U.S., and the vast majority of Eastern Canada.

This independent report confirms that there are clear cost advantages to setting up, expanding, relocating or consolidating an international business in Regina.  The result…increased profitability and improved shareholder value.

Source – 2006 Regina Business Attraction Guide

When planning a holiday, you probably think you have to go all the way to Los Angeles if you want to see stars.  Well not anymore!  In the last decade or so, Canada has developed the nickname of "Hollywood North".  Moviemakers love our country for its vast geographical splendor, our talented, dedicated workforce, and most importantly, the fact that they can save a lot of money by shooting here.  Regina has become a major player in this flourishing industry.  Several years ago, when a state-of-the-art soundstage was built in the Wascana Park in which many shows and films have since been produced.

No doubt you've heard of a little sitcom called "Corner Gas".  This has been a break out hit for CTV, scoring massive ratings, winning prestigious industry awards, and creating a devoted fan base from coast-to-coast.  This hilarious comedy, with Regina based producers, Verite' Films Inc, shoots on-location in a small town half an hour outside of the city.  The show is so popular, that a local tour company called CNT Tours has created a special day trip.  From May to September, you can visit the sets of Corner Gas on location in Rouleau and the Canada / Saskatchewan Production Studios right in the city.  The fictional setting of Dog River has become a real place in the hearts of fans everywhere, but you have to come to Regina to experience it fully.  The stars of the show are always gracious and friendly, and delighted to stop and talk or sign an autograph for you.

In 2005, a movie called "Just Friends" was filmed in and around Regina.  It featured such well-known young stars and starlets as Ryan Reynolds, Amy Smart, Chris Klein, and Anna Faris.  It was a Christmas-themed romantic comedy in which Regina doubled as New Jersey and even Los Angeles!  A red carpet premiere was held at our Galaxy Cinemas, and brought attention and acclaim to all of the local people who played supporting and minor parts in the movie.  This is just the latest in a long line of productions that have wrapped in Regina.  Some big-names that have filmed here in the recent past include Drew Barrymore, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Lynda Carter, Andy Garcia, Teri Polo, Jeff Bridges, Jennifer Tilly, and many more.  You never know who you could encounter at any given time while visiting Regina!  The person sitting beside you sipping a cappuccino just may be a movie star!

Source - 2006 Regina Summer Guide

The London-based Economist Intelligence Unit's (EIU) Liveability Ranking conducted a worldwide search for the best places to live.  The ranking was based on 40 indicators in 5 categories including stability, healthcare, culture & environment, education and infrastructure.  When all was said and done, Canada came out on top!  The reasons were Canada's low crime rate, little threat from terrorism and a highly developed infrastructure.  Don't forget that the UN ranked Canada the #1 country to live in 5 years in a row!

A Guide to Cost Advantage

The 2006 Competitive Alternatives study is the most thorough comparison of international business costs ever undertaken by KPMG.  This study contains valuable information for any company seeking a cost advantage in locating international business operations.

Updating and expanding upon previous Competitive Alternatives publications, this study measures the combined impact of 27 significant cost components that are most likely to vary by location.  The eight-month research program covered 17 industry operations in nine industrial countries: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States.  More than 2,000 individual business scenarios were examined, combining more than 30,000 items of data.  The basis for comparison is after-tax cost of startup and operation, over a 10-year planning horizon.

The Bottom Line

Among the countries studied, Singapore has the greatest cost advantage over the United States, at 22.3 percent.  With the GDP per capita now on par with some western European nations, Singapore is the first newly industrialized country to be included in Competitive Alternatives.

Canada leads the G7 countries for low business costs, with a cost advantage of 5.5 percent over the United States.

France and the Netherlands have the best results among the European countries.  Costs are virtually equivalent in both countries, with a cost advantage of approximately 4.4 percent over the US.

Italy and the United Kingdom also have very similar business costs, both holding a cost advantage of approximately two percent over the United States.

The United States is the study baseline against which other countries are compared, and ranks seventh among the nine countries.

Japan and Germany are the most expensive among the countries studied.  These countries are at a cost disadvantage relative to the US, by 6.9 and 7.4 percent, respectively.

Cost Trends:  Cost Differentials Narrow

Cost differentials among the returning countries (G7 plus Netherlands) have narrowed since the previous (2004) edition of Competitive Alternatives, with most countries moving closer to the US benchmark.

• Japan has experienced the greatest gain in cost competitiveness, assisted by the weakening of the yen relative to the US dollar, and improvements in local business costs.
• German, the Netherlands, France and Italy have all experienced improvement in their cost competitiveness, relative to the US benchmark,
• The United Kingdom has retained a cost advantage over the United States, Japan and Germany.
• Canada has retained its top ranking among G7 countries, although the size of its advantage has been reduced by the strong appreciation of the Canadian dollar relative to the US dollar over the last two years.

The results of this study are sensitive to exchange rates.  Exchange rates used in this study, along with comparative rates from the time of the previous (2004) study are as follows:

Exchange Rates

Source - Competitive Alternatives: KMPG's guide to International Business Costs 2006 Edition

Batoche

Back to Batoche Days

Metisnation-sask.com

July 19-27, 2007 

Battlefords

Saskatchewan Handcraft Festival

Saskcraftcouncil.org

July 13-15, 2007

Big River

Ness Creek Festival

Nesscreek.com

July 19-22, 2007 

Chaplin

Chaplin Shorebird Festival

Saturday, June 02, 2007 At 06:00 PM

Website link

Coronach

4th Annual Outlaw Days Festival

http://www.coronach.ca/Outlaw_Days/outlaw_days.html

July 21-22, 2007 

Craven

Craven Country Jamboree

http://www.cravencountryjamboree.com/

July 12-15, 2007

Estevan

Celebrity Chili Cook Off

Jun 10, 2007 from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Estevan Art Gallery and Museum

City of Estevan Golden Anniversary

Jun 30, 2007 

Fort Qu'Appelle

Midsummer's Art Festival

http://www.fortquappelle.com/midsaf/index.html

August 4, 2007

Govan

Govan Olde Tyme Fiddle Festival

Dmorten.sasktelwebsite.net

July 6th and 7th, 2007

Gravelbourgh

Southern Saskatchewan Summer Solstive d'ete Festival

Atouchofeurope.net

June 22-June 24, 2007

Humboldt

Humboldt Summer Sizzler and Rodeo

Humboldttourism.com/sizzler

June 29th - July 1st, 2007

13th Annual Humboldt Polkafest

Humboldttourism.com

July 21-22, 2007

Humboldt Oktoberfest

Humboldttourism.com

November 3rd, 2007

La Ronge

La Ronge Childrens Festival

Laronge.ca

July 1, 2007

Lloydminister

Lloydminister Colonial Days

Lloydexh.com

July 11-14, 2007

Macklin

Macklin World Bunnock Championship Challenge

Macklin.ca

July 29th - August 1st, 2007

Maple Creek

Cowboy Poetry Gathering and Western Art and Gear Show

Jaspercentre.ca

September 14th - 16th, 2007

Manitou Beach

Manitou Beach Square Dance Weekend

June 21-23, 2007

Melfort

Melfort Exhibition

www.cityofmelfort.ca

Moose Jaw

Motif Moose Jaw Multicultural Festival

Mjmutlicultural.com
 

Saskatchewan Festival of Words

Festivalofwords.com

July 19, 22, 2007

Nipawin

Nipawain Great Northern Pike Festival

Nipawin.com

June 17-September 30, 2007

Sasaktchewan Premier's Walleye Cup

Nipawin.com

August 10-11, 2007
 

Prince Albert

Musical Ride

http://www.paexhibition.com

3rd June, 2007

Regina

Mosaic 2007:  A Festival of Culture

www.reginamulticulturalcouncil.ca

May 31st - June 2nd, 2007

RCMP Sunset Retreat Ceremonies

Rcmpmuseum.com

July 1st - August 15th, 2007

Buffalo Days - The Provincial Exhibition

http://www.ipscoplace.com/association.aspx?p=buffalo_days

August 1st - 6th, 2007
 

Regina Folk Festival

Reginafolkfestival.com

August 10-12, 2007

SaskPower Dragon Boat Festival

Dragonboat.regina.sk.ca

August 31st - September 1st, 2007
 

Canadian Western Agribition

Agribition.com

Regina Beach

Regina Beach Lake Swim 2007

http://www.lumsden.ca/reginabeach/pages/visitors.php

July 14th, 2007

Rockglen

www.rockglentourism.com

Rosthern

Station Arts Centre Summer Theatre

Stationarts.com

July 5th - August 5th, 2007

Saskatoon

SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival (Jazz Festival events also held in Regina, Moose Jaw and The Battlefords)

Saskjazz.com

June 22nd - July 1st, 2007

Shakespeare on the Saskatchewan

Shakespeareonthesaskatchewan.com

July 4th-August 12th, 2007

Pion-Era

Wdm.ca

Saskatoon Fringe Festival

25thstreettheatre.org
 

The Saskatoon Exhibition

Saskatoonex.com
 

John Arcand Fiddle Festival

Johnarcand.com

August 9th-12th, 2007
 

Folkfest 2007: One World, One Race

Saskatoon.com/folkfest

August 16th-18th, 2007
 

Canada Remembers International Air Show

Canadaremembersairshow.com

August 18th-19th, 2007

Shaunavon

Shaunavon Rodeo

Shaunavon.com

July 20th-22nd, 2007

Swift Current

Frontier Days Regional Fair and Rodeo

Swiftcurrentex.com
 

Southwest Saskatchewan Open Art Exhibition

Artgalleryofswiftcurrent.org

Wadena

Stonebirds and Friends Festival

Wadena.ca

Waskesiu

Waskesiu Canada Day Celebrations

Waskesiulake.ca

July 1, 2007

West Central Region

Prairie to Pine Artisans Tour

Prairietopinereda.com

Weyburn

Weyburn Agricultural Fair

Weyburn.ca

July 2nd, 2007

Wood Mountain

Wood Mountain Stampede

http://www.saskregionalparks.ca/showPark.php?id=woodmountain

Yorkton

Yorkton Cowboy Festival
Yorktoncowboyfestival.com
August 10th-12th, 2007

Yorkton Short Film and Video Festival
www.yorktonshortfilm.org