CARLYLE - Since 2012, the Women on the Go bus tour has conducted their annual Christmas shopping trips to Carlyle.
Forty-four women visited the Cornerstone of Saskatchewan on Nov. 25 and thoroughly enjoyed their afternoon visit. This is the last Women on the Go tour for owner/operator Cheryl Hughes. She has sold the business to Regina resident Kim Coleman, who has years of experience in the hospitality and travel industries.
“The ladies had an amazing day and had nothing but good things to say about the businesses, the customer service, and their overall shopping experience in Carlyle,” said Hughes. “Returning home, our supper at The Happy Nun in Forget was delicious with killer sticky toffee pudding to finish off the day. Chef Gayla [Gilbertson] and her staff did a fabulous job, as always.
“Carlyle has been a favourite since our first visit in 2012, for shopping and for the Dickens festival. Two buses with another 99 of us will be back in Carlyle this coming weekend.”
Carlie Glasser is the co-owner of Fireside Furniture and the store manager.
“Becoming part of the Women on the Go community on the small business side has been an absolute delight and a highlight to my holiday season,” said Glasser. “Watching the bus roll down Main Street Carlyle is a view I look forward to every year.
“Cheryl’s devotion to these tours has created a strong bond between the bus participants and small businesses. There is a noticeable shift of energy and excitement when they arrive. Our team spends the day laughing and connecting with fantastic women. We are so grateful to be a part of their unique small-town shopping experience in Carlyle.
“I can’t wait to see the buses roll in next weekend for the 19th Annual Dickens Village Festival.”
Added Ken King, owner of King’s Department Store, “What Cheryl has done for us is almost too great to measure. She has introduced us to hundreds of wonderful people over the years that come back often and not just on the bus. To now keep the momentum by handing the lead off to Kim is so selfless and so appreciated. We will miss Cheryl, but we do get to see her during the Dickens Festival this coming weekend as she is hosting two full buses on Friday.”
Added Hughes: “We also raised over $300 for our ‘giving back’ program, this year supporting Sask. Mental Health. Guests are invited to share their spare change at the end of each adventure. Money raised stays here in Saskatchewan and is shared with local charities and organizations. “Since we started this program, we have given back thousands of dollars. Our guests have been very generous and supportive. Thank-you Carlyle for your great hospitality over the years.”
