More signs, says Shindleman

May 28, 2008
Portage Daily Graphic
Written by: Leah Kellar

Others share tourism-boosting ideas at workshop yesterday

Sandy Shindleman, president of Shindico Realty Inc., says there is a definite link between real estate development and tourism. Staff photo by Leah Kellar

PORTAGE LA PRAIRIE  —  Portage la Prairie has a lot more to offer than spuds if tourists keep their eyes peeled.

Sandy Shindleman, a self-proclaimed Portager and president of the Shindico Realty Inc. development company, notes the city has a wealth of tourist attractions including the new multiplex. However, he added more emphasis must be put on signage and promotion.

“There are so many opportunities for more signage, branding and promoting of attractions in Portage to get people off the main drag and out into the community to see what we have to offer,” said Shindleman, noting attractions such as Crescent Lake, Splash Island and the new multiplex to be built at Island Park.

Shindleman spoke to a group of approximately 30 people during an informal discussion and round table workshop yesterday at the Canad Inns Portage on how real estate impacts tourism.

Participants formed two groups and pitched some ideas for tourism projects and promotion of local attractions. The city’s Tourism Advisory Committee will take those ideas to consider, prioritize and present ideas for funding for each project this summer.

Some of the ideas mentioned included more tourism signage and signage branding with a standardized logo for Portage, co-ordination among businesses in the sponsoring of events, promoting Crescent Lake and more funding for advertising to target special groups such as seniors and golfers.

lkellar@cpheraldleader.com