The reeve from the RM of Rockwood recently attended the Federation of Canadian Municipalities meeting in Winnipeg last weekend. Jim Campbell says it's all about making connections.

"I go to FCM mainly to meet new people and meet people that know more than I know. And believe me, there's a lot of people out there that know more than I know. I take every opportunity I can when someone says, 'You know, Jim, you should go and talk to that guy. That guy can give you some information on this.' Or, 'If you get a chance to have a cup of coffee with this guy, or this woman, they are experienced with that situation'."

Campbell notes his contacts provide him a personal connection that benefits further contact.

"I'm involved with the capital regions around Winnipeg, and I got the opportunity to spend quite a bit of time with a gentleman from Toronto's council. And this guy is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to economic development. and you bring that back to not only Rockwood, but also our capital regions board, and it helps us all. You're not going to see the benefits overnight, but it helps us all working in one direction to accomplish something, something good for Rockwood is good for everyone around Rockwood as well."