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When the first bull bursts from the chute, the energy at the MacGregor Stride Centre is electric. For nearly three hours, fans are treated to non-stop action, as riders test their grit against powerful animals in one of the region's most anticipated events. But the North Norfolk Bull Bash on June 7 is more than just a rodeo – it’s a cherished community gathering and an essential fundraiser that supports vital local services.

For most of her life, Ashton Redden dreamed about owning a greenhouse – getting to spend her days surrounded by plants and flowers, nurturing them from seeds, and spreading the joy with her community. 

Five years ago, Redden’s dream came true. 

“A few years before the pandemic, I had asked the (now previous) owners of Riverdene Garden Centre if I could take over the business. At first, the answer was no. In 2020, the opportunity to buy came up again, and this time, they said yes!” said Redden.  

A Prairie-Inspired Celebration of Colour, Flavour, and Creativity

Jennifer Sparks has never been one to shy away from bold inspiration. Widely known for her artful confections, the owner of Swift Current’s JL Cake & Chocolate is channelling the spirit of summer into her latest chocolate series, turning sweet treats into a full sensory experience.

A One-Stop Shop for All Things Battery

Borderland Battery Distributors has officially opened its doors in Portage la Prairie, bringing with it a massive selection of batteries and chargers for everything from tractors to ATVs. The shop, located at 2533 Saskatchewan Avenue West in the former Ag West building next to McDonald's, is part of a growing Manitoba network with existing locations in Morden, Brandon, and Thompson.

Ready to show off your grilling skills? The CMX Brisket Cook-off is back for another year to kick off the summer and bring the community together!

Fire up your appetite and your community spirit – Dufresne Furniture & Appliances in Portage la Prairie is hosting a sizzling summer barbecue in support of the Portage Animal Welfare Society (PAWS).

Grilling, Giggling, and Giving Back

A Trusted Name with Deep Roots in Saskatchewan 

Commissionaires has officially opened a new branch in Swift Current, marking a significant step in expanding their long-standing presence in Saskatchewan. While the organization has been serving the province since 1948, this is the first time they’ve established a permanent office in the southwest region. 

A Community Cause Close to Home 

Don Hales, owner of Don's Direct Deals, is turning up the heat on cancer this summer with a heartfelt community initiative. Beginning Friday, June 6, Hales will host a series of fundraising barbecues dubbed "Fight Cancer Fridays" at his business, located at 920 Saskatchewan Avenue East in Portage la Prairie. 

Conventional wisdom often advises against going into business with your best friend, but Britt Smith and Jodi Arling are proving that sometimes, friendship makes the perfect foundation for a thriving business. 

As lifelong best friends who were both born and raised in Swift Current and now co-owners of Connexion Yoga & Pilates Studio, Britt and Jodi have found that their close bond only enhances their professional partnership. 

The Iron Office, a locally owned and family-operated gym in Downtown Swift Current, operates with one goal – making fitness accessible to everyone.  

Owner Hayden Cappelle started working at the Iron Office in 2018, eventually purchasing the business in 2021. Since taking over, Cappelle has made quite a few changes, including bringing in new, top-of-the-line equipment, expanding the gym to the second floor, and adding a boxing room. The Iron Office also partners with Twist of Fate to provide various fitness classes like Zumba, Yoga, and more.