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Brian Tennant didn't plan to start a water treatment company. A trained plumber and second-year refrigeration mechanic, Tennant transitioned into farming at 25 and spent two decades on the land before selling his farm. When he purchased a new property near a golf course, he was confronted with a water problem that would spark a years-long journey of innovation. "My wife didn't want to move there because the water came from a dugout used by cows and ducks," Tennant recalls. "I told her, 'I'll fix it.'" 

What started as a small family endeavour has blossomed into a thriving storage business near the number 4 highway and railway crossing. For the folks behind Cheep Storage, it’s about more than just storing belongings – it’s about helping people find peace of mind.

A humble beginning

“The business started from an empty lot with no idea what to do with it,” says Daisy Dyck, who runs the facility together with her family. “We were already using it for our own storage, so we figured we’d try to see if anyone else would like to use it too.”

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."

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.

Pioneer Co-op in Swift Current has built a reputation as a trusted source for top-tier agricultural equipment, proudly featuring a comprehensive selection of AGI products. From augers and conveyors to bins and aeration equipment, the Co-op's lineup is designed to meet the diverse needs of local producers.

What started in a basement in Eckville in 2007 has since become a coast-to-coast sensation. Chris Robak, CFO of Silver Cove, recalls the early days of the now-thriving gemstone and mineral company. "Believe it or not, we started in our basement," he says. "We opened our first store in Lacombe, then expanded to Edmonton, Calgary, and Red Deer."

From those modest roots, Silver Cove has evolved into a multifaceted business that includes retail locations, a mining division, a wholesale warehouse, and an extensive schedule of gem and mineral shows across Canada.

Starting fresh and finding purpose

Lori McInnis never expected her career path would lead her to mortgage brokering, but six years ago, a move from Swift Current to Saskatoon, when her husband Brent was transferred with his employer, sparked a new beginning. Originally working in Wealth Management, Lori reconnected with an old friend who encouraged her to try something new.

"She said, 'You should come work with us,'" Lori recalls. "So I took the mortgage brokering course, got mentored, and here I am today."

An unexpected start turns into a joyful business

Audrianna Argent never planned to run a yoga business, let alone one involving goats in diapers and pink dresses. But Dynamic Goat Yoga, her playful and increasingly popular venture, grew out of a serendipitous moment on her farm.

"I was selling a pair of shoes, and when the buyer came by, the goats ran up to greet her," Argent recalls. "She said, 'You should do goat yoga!' and a light bulb went on."

A new chapter for community living

Portage la Prairie is on the cusp of an exciting new era in residential living with the upcoming opening of Portage Commons, a purpose-built rental community by Kenmare.

The Winnipeg-based developer and management company is known for its innovative approach to real estate development and design/build contracting. With a commitment to quality and community, their projects across Western Canada are shaping the future of housing.