“It’s 35 years and it’s the fastest 35 years in my life!” laughs Boissevain business owner, Ken Hole.  “In 1985 I had the opportunity to purchase a local business and we’ve been here ever since!”

“Over the years, it’s the consumer and the people who visit the store have made this whole, you might call it ‘journey’ in my life.  It’s been overwhelming.  I’ve had some great people work for me.  I’ve dealt with some great people out on the street and I’ve dealt with some great suppliers who have kept my head above water.”

Hole is the President of the Boissevain Chamber of Commerce and says this Prairie town has a lot to offer.  “Boissevain is a pretty unique little town with a very small trading area,” he says.  “We all seem to be very friendly and thrive on each other’s intellect and we help each other out.  From the Volunteer Awards all the way to the flowers to the recycling people – everybody!”

“It all makes what a community is supposed to be.”

Hole shares how it all started back in 1985.

“It’s all about community,” shares Hole.  “It’s community-based.  This pandemic has brought out, what I think, is the best in people.  For me, business has not slowed down because people still have to eat and drink.  I think people have realized that things are available in our community.  The service is definitely here in our community.” 

“There’s not a whole lot of things that you can’t buy in our community.  Yes, there are a few things but overall you don’t have to go very far in another small community to get what you need as well.”

“I’m not a touristy business but I definitely feel for those who had plans, and family, to travel down south and are unable to visit them so far.”

“Over 35 years, it’s been a joyful ride for me,” Hole says.  “I’m not going to get out of it yet! But, anyone who is thinking about getting into small enterprise, by all means you are your own boss, but you do have to work at it.  It is definitely fulfilling as a lifestyle.”

Two local businesses in Boissevain are waving their 35th Anniversary banner, the second being the neighboring business, Pringle’s Sports Excellence.

Hole adds anniversary celebrations will take place either this fall, or next spring, depending on COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines.