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“Investing in our employees is the best investment in our business.”

This philosophy has remained central for decades, and still rings true at a well-known local business.

Derek Tribier is the branch manager of EECOL in Moose Jaw- a company that has been part of the local landscape since 1919. Originally known as Bruce Robinson Supplies Ltd., now EECOL Electric, is currently a leading electrical distributor with over 60 branches scattered throughout the country.

Sponsored Content - all story elements provided by CMU's Media Skills: Radio Team students. Story written by Taylor Shule, edited by David Balzer.

On May 31st, 2025, the Community Exchange hosted a block party which included the Great Canadian Neighbour Contest! Altona residents stepped into The Chatterbox, a
vintage camper, to share what makes their Canadian neighbour so great!

When you talk to Gilles Perron, owner of Premium Plumbing, one thing becomes clear right away – this is someone who truly loves what he does.

“Every day is not a chore to get up and go to work. I love my job. I love the guys I work with,” says Perron. “We’ve got such a great team and every day is a blessing.”

Founded out of a lifelong fascination with water, steam, gas, and fire, Premium Plumbing has quickly become one of the most trusted names in plumbing and gas fitting throughout the Southeast.

Commercial wind developments – including Enbridge’s proposed Seven Stars Energy Project – are subject to environmental, regulatory, and permitting reviews involving three levels of government before they can proceed to the construction stage.

Graduation is a major milestone, and for the Swift Current Comprehensive High School Class of 2025, it’s being marked with more than just a ceremony. Following their Grand March on June 26, students will head into a night of celebration at Dry Grad – an all-night, alcohol- and drug-free event packed with food, games, music, and prizes.

"The goal is to give students a safe space to celebrate together," says Kristie Stewart, chairperson of this year’s Dry Grad Committee. "We want them to have fun and enjoy each other’s company without the risks that can come with grad night."

When Heather and Randy Unger began working with Henry and Margaret Unger in 1989, they were stepping into a family business with deep roots. Originally launched as Margaret Draperies in 1974 in Plum Coulee, the business evolved into Advance Blinds and Drapery and built a reputation for high-quality products and service across Manitoba and into Ontario’s cottage country surrounding Lake of the Woods. 

When Heather Klassen and her partner Jim first dreamed up their business, they were bobbing in the Pacific on a tour boat, surrounded by whales. That unforgettable moment in Maui became the namesake for their uniquely branded company, Mugging Whales Specialty Coffee Roasters. 

"We got 'mugged' by whales," Klassen explains with a laugh. "We were stuck out there, completely surrounded. It was amazing." 

The annual Canada Day celebration in Vita is shaping up to be one for the books, with organizers promising a dynamic blend of long-standing favourites and exciting new attractions. Ang Boychuk, one of the lead organizers, says the two-day festival offers something for everyone.

"We have a lot of recurring things happening that we've had in past years like our strong man competition, baseball tournament, some rodeo ring activities, and lots of kids activities," Boychuk says.

With golf clubs at the ready and a cause close to home, Stride Credit Union is once again rallying the community for its annual STARS golf tournament, set for July 10 in Portage la Prairie.

Now in its third year, the fundraiser brings together golfers, local businesses, and community members to support STARS air ambulance, a service that plays a critical role in rural and remote areas across Manitoba.

Fuel House Chestermere isn't your typical gym. For owner Sara Berdusco, it's a place where connections are just as important as kettlebells. “Fuel House is really special. It's like a family,” says Berdusco. “We have youth as young as 12 and adults as young as 72. We have high-level athletes, and everyone trains together, cheers for each other, and brings out the best in each other.”

Located above the popular Dockside restaurant at 109 E Chestermere Drive, Fuel House is a community-centered fitness facility that prides itself on inclusivity and mutual encouragement.