Last evening, Fusion CEO Darwin Johns declared Countryside Studio & Gym as the 2024 Community Infusion Final Five winner in front of a packed house in the Aspen Lodge at Credit Union Place. Based in Hamiota, MB, Countryside Studio & Gym is receiving $20,000 in grant monies to expand their operations. Community Infusion, an initiative designed to promote economic development and entrepreneurship in local communities, is sponsored by Fusion Credit Union. “The dedication and commitment that all finalists have for their business ideas was demonstrated on stage last night,” states Johns. “They all have a passion for what they do, which is truly inspiring. Community Infusion was created to support economic development initiatives in our communities and we’re happy to have provided a platform to showcase all the amazing ideas. We are proud to have participated in this part of their journey and we wish them all continued success.” Friendly’s Grocery Co-op from Inglis was declared the second-place finalist and received $4,000 in grant money. Other finalists included MultiCook from Brandon, Parkland Radon from Inglis and Systems Beauty College from Brandon. These three finalists all received $2,000 each to grow their business ideas. Community Infusion is an initiative where community engagement meets entrepreneurial passion. Each spring, current and aspiring business owners can apply to share in up to $30,000 towards a new business idea, or an expanding business. This year, Fusion received 18 submissions. Based on scoring criteria, eleven businesses moved onto the next round, which involves the submission of a business plan. Five finalists then pitched their business idea to a panel of judges at Credit Union Place in Dauphin. As a locally based financial institution in the Parkland and southwestern Manitoba, Fusion considers community impact and contribution to be a top priority. “The Community Infusion program is a way in which Fusion can play a role in supporting job creation, entrepreneurial support, and business development,” says Mike Csversko, Brand and Business Development Manager at Fusion. “Our goal for Community Infusion aligns with the priorities of Countryside Studio & Gym, and their plans to grow in the community of Hamiota. We are encouraged by their drive to grow commerce in the region, while committing to employment creation,” adds Csversko. “We look forward to working with them in the months and years to come.”

The Keystone Centre is excited to announce a new partnership with Farmery Estate Brewing Company. This new partnership will see Farmery Estate Brewing Company supply ready-to-drink caesars, hard iced teas and a limited selection of their local craft beer. “We’re excited to welcome Farmery Estate Brewing to the Keystone Centre,” says Connie Lawrence, Keystone Centre CEO & General Manager. “Their dedication to local craftsmanship will bring a new dimension to our events, and enhance the experience of our guests.” Farmery, known for its locally crafted beers and commitment to sustainability, will complement the beverage offerings available at the Centre, providing patrons with an authentic taste of Manitoba’s brewing landscape. “Farmery Estate Brewery is incredibly excited to have our locally made products available at the Keystone Centre, says Chris Warwaruk, co-founder and co-owner of Farmery Estate Brewing. “It’s a great way to showcase the best of what Manitoba has to offer, right in the heart of Westman! Keystone Centre Extends Partnership with Molson Coors The Keystone Centre is excited to announce the extension of its pouring rights contract with Molson Coors, which will now run through 2027. Under this renewed agreement, Molson Coors will serve as the Official Beer Sponsor of the Keystone Centre, supplying a diverse range of beverages for all events held at the venue—including beer, malt beverages, ciders, and ready-to-drink cocktails. “Molson Coors is thrilled to extend our partnership with the Keystone Centre,” says Jesse Adamyk, Molson Coors district sales manager. “We believe Molson Coors is a natural fit with the Keystone Centre, and that our services, and exciting portfolio of brands will enhance the event experience.” This partnership is not only a commitment to quality beverages but also a dedication to enhancing the overall experience for our patrons. "We are proud to extend our partnership with Molson Coors, a brand synonymous with great taste and quality,” said Connie Lawrence, CEO & general manager of the Keystone Centre. “Their support plays a crucial role in our ability to host memorable events in our community." The Keystone Centre is dedicated to delivering outstanding experiences for its visitors, and with the continued support of Molson Coor, attendees can anticipate a fantastic variety of beverage options at all future events.

Westman Communications Group (WCG) has been awarded $8 million from the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission’s (CRTC) Broadband Fund. This funding can potentially be used to bring fibre-based Internet to 16 rural communities in Manitoba, positively impacting nearly 1,500 households. “We are taking action to help ensure that all Canadians have access to high-speed Internet,” said Vicky Eatrides, Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer, CRTC. “The projects announced will bring fibre Internet to 16 rural communities in Manitoba. This will improve access to health care and other government services, support small businesses, and create new economic opportunities.” The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) launched the Broadband Fund in 2019 to help connect rural, remote, and Indigenous communities across Canada. Funding from the CRTC Broadband Fund is contributed to by large Canadian telecommunications service providers and is not derived from taxpayers. This additional funding will aid WCG in building over 300 kilometres of transport fibre infrastructure, further expanding the availability of reliable and high-quality Internet service. “The ability to bring fibre-based technology to more communities can allow for improvements to communication capabilities. It enables businesses to grow and participate in the global economy and helps to improve essential services such as health care,” said Eagle J. (Bud) Keys, President and CEO of WCG. “High-speed Internet is essential to community growth and sustainability. As a local Manitoba Cooperative, we are dedicated to connecting the Manitoba area and would like to thank the Federal Government for their shared commitment to our goal." WCG services over 80 communities and will continue to ensure that under-served areas receive the connection typically reserved for major urban areas. To learn more about WCG and the services they offer, visit www.westmancom.com.

A local pickup/delivery pizzeria is celebrating its s30th anniversary this year. Little Italy Pizzeria was started by Martin Dupuis in October of 1994. The popular pizza joint was originally located on Rosser Ave (323 Rosser Ave) until its move to 305-10th St in 2004. The business was sold in 2017 to a new ownership group (Farhan, Morgan & Saki). Martin felt comfortable handing over the keys to his business as the incoming owners had each been employed by the restaurant for several years. Over that time they had developed an extensive knowledge of both the menu and the customers. The secret behind Little Italy’s longevity lies in its commitment to quality. The menu, featuring a wide array of pizzas, pasta, oven baked subs, and appetizers, has remained true to its roots, with several new items sprinkled in a long the way. The owners have consistently fostered relationships with their customers, some of whom have been ordering pizza/pasta since day one. As part of its 30th anniversary celebration, they will be offering a free medium pizza (1-topping) with every food order of $35 or more (before taxes). To order online, please click here.

The J&G Homes Arena and WCHA are happy to welcome Chad Wallin and the Joe Beeverz team to be the operators of Kings Kitchen. We wish Chad and his team continued success and are excited for the experience they will bring to patrons of J&G Homes Arena. The restaurant is expected to re-open Friday October 4th in time for the U17AAA game. The restaurant will be open for all U18AAA, U17AAA and U15AAA games as well as the ACC Cougars games during the season following opening night on October 4th.