NORTH BATTLEFORD — The Battlefords Chamber of Commerce has sworn in Glenda Rye as chair of its board of directors for 2025.
The transition was formalized at a ceremony Thursday at Blend Riverside in North Battleford, where outgoing chair Kayla Petersen passed the gavel to Rye.
Rye, who represents North Battleford LUK Plumbing, Heating and Electric Ltd., is a ninth-generation a member of a family of entrepreneurs. She conveyed her enthusiasm for stepping into this new role, emphasizing her commitment to advancing the local business landscape.
“What makes us special is not just our location on the map, but our spirit,” she said.
A member of the community for over 13 years, Rye has watched her children grow and has cultivated an understanding of the needs that local families face.
“Our community isn’t just growing; it’s transforming,” she said. “We’re not just any small city; we’re the Battlefords, and we’re ready to be Saskatchewan’s next big success story.”
She described a future where students embrace a new college campus and where health-care professionals, such as doctors and nurses, receive in their community.
“This isn’t just a dream; it’s our next chapter,” Rye said. “We’re not merely erecting buildings; we’re constructing futures.”
Discussing the forces that are propelling this growth, Rye remarked, “Our oil sector isn’t just surviving; it’s thriving.”
She drew attention to the significant contributions made by local companies that provide services to the industry, create good jobs and support local families.
“These aren’t merely businesses; they’re the engine of our economy, the driving force behind why people are choosing to relocate here and why new homes are being constructed,” she said.
“Have you seen our farming community?” They’re not just selling agricultural supplies; they’re revolutionizing how our farmers cultivate their legacies.”
She cited innovations for empowering farmers to work more efficiently and effectively.
“This kind of innovation is what truly puts the Battlefords on the map,” she said.
