Once a modest truck stop just east of Neepawa, Breaker 16 has transformed into a bustling hub for equipment sales and rentals. Under the ownership of Henry Reimer, the business opened its doors in March 2020, facing the immediate challenge of pandemic restrictions and lockdowns. These hurdles dampened what was meant to be an exciting launch. However, as an essential service, Breaker 16 remained operational throughout the pandemic, allowing it not only to weather the storm but to steadily carve out a niche in the market.

Recently, Breaker 16 received a spotlight at the Business After Five event organized by the local Chamber of Commerce. The event allowed Reimer and his team to showcase their unique business model, which specializes in renting small equipment and power tools for one-time or infrequent projects. While the business also offers equipment for sale, it’s the rental side of operations that has truly put Breaker 16 on the map, becoming the go-to resource for local homeowners and contractors alike.

In addition to Breaker 16, the Business After Five event provided an opportunity for regional communications and financial services companies to engage with the Neepawa community. Businesses like Westman Communications and Westoba Credit Union, which don’t have a permanent presence in town, took advantage of the event to boost awareness and make connections with residents.

Meanwhile, the week also saw some action in Neepawa’s Riverbend Park, where the local fire department conducted a controlled burn. Given that the park borders the main highway through town, the sight of flames naturally raised some concerns among residents and visitors. However, both the town officials and NACTV quickly reassured the public that the fire was entirely planned and under control. The controlled burn served as a vital training exercise for the fire department while also helping to manage vegetation in the park.

Overall, the eventful week highlighted the growing presence of Breaker 16 in the community and underscored the collaborative spirit among local businesses and organizations, as Neepawa continues to find ways to thrive in an ever-evolving environment.