Over the past several years we have been very fortunate to introduce our readers to some hidden gems (Crows' General Store, D-Vos Sports Lounge, Eternal Springs, Nature's Hideaway) in Brandon and the surrounding communities. Thanks to a tip from a follower, we can now add the Kelwood Store to the list. The store, located at 10 Mountain Ave in Kelwood, is only open Saturdays from 10AM TO 4PM. Kelwood is halfway between Neepawa and Ste Rose du Lac. The recently opened store is full of antiques and collectibles. There is a great little cafe next door too, called “Cafe 37”, which is open Thursdays, Fridays, & Saturdays.

Fusion Credit Union is giving $500,000 in patronage allocations to its members and $400,000 in cash payouts to members under 19 and 65 and over. “We are thrilled to be paying out $900,000 to our members in our amalgamation year,” says Ron Hedley, CEO of Fusion Credit Union. “With interest rates as they are, and regulations changing with respect to credit unions keeping assets on their books, the fact that we’re providing returns to our members this way is pretty exciting.” A patronage allocation is value returned to a member of Fusion Credit Union based on their relationship. The amount for each member is different, as it represents a portion of their interest paid and earned during the past year. “Patronage allocations are one more way Fusion adds value for members,” adds Hedley. “We’re thrilled to tangibly deliver on our promise to keep our members and our communities first.” Members will see their allocation on their statements. Business account holders will see the change around the end of June and Personal account holders will see it on their July statement. Members’ patronage allocations are retained in a Surplus Share account. This year, Fusion’s Board of Directors have set a policy and have approved to pay members aged 65 and over, and members under 19. This year they are paying out $400,000 in cash across these two member groups. “At its core, Fusion belongs to its members,” adds Hedley. “As stewards, our role is to protect their investment, invest in ways that benefit our communities, and deliver positive returns like this, wherever we can.”

Thunderbird Bowl's transition to T-Birds Food Fun Games continues as phase 1 is complete. The restaurant has been renovated from top to bottom and is now equipped with 30 of the latest interactive high-end redemption games, coinless playcard technology, and a full redemption center. The huge arcade is packed with fun and exciting arcade video and redemption games including games for people of all ages. Guests can use the facility's ticketless system to save credits and the points you earn on redemption games will automatically be added to your playcard. Redeem you points for different prizes at the redemption counter. The arcade opens Saturday at noon. Phase 2 (remodeling the bowling concourse) and phase 3 (new kids’ play-structure space) are expected to be completed by the end of summer.  

Tag 'Em Entertainment owner Ty Worthington announced today that his company had purchased the Television City building at 1639 Rosser Ave. The building will now undergo some renovations to include a beautiful new showroom, meeting rooms, and office space for Ty. His other company, Pinnacle Event Rentals will also be moving into the renovated space as well.

Local business owner Gus Vasilarakis is doing his part to Revamp Brandon’s Downtown.  His latest project is located at 402 10th Street, right across the street from his family business Pizza Express in the heart of Brandon’s business hub.   This particular project has special meaning to Gus and his family as they do their part to help revitalize Brandon’s Downtown.  “It’s really great that the City and other local business people have seen the potential of Brandon’s Downtown and have taken the initiative to invest in the community.  I’ve been in business for over 37 years on the corner of 10th Street and Louise Ave. and we credit a lot of our success to our location and of course to our amazing community” said Vasilarakis. Gus and his Parents immigrated from Greece and started their family restaurant in 1982; still operating out of the same location to this day.  “Brandon’s Downtown has, and always will be a special place for my family and I. It’s been a second home for us over the years and to have an opportunity to invest in the community that has given my family and I so much is a great feeling.” The single or double tenant, 4300 sq ft building sports a premium, modern aesthetic while also being incredibly eco-friendly.  Unlike traditional builds, this development has been built using revolutionary Greenstone Panel Construction by local contractors Keller Developments, which provides industry best efficiency that will significantly lower tenant utility expenses while drastically reducing carbon emissions, protecting the environment.  The property also provides highly coveted downtown parking (17 on lot spaces) providing tenants and their patrons with convenience not found downtown. With construction now being completed and the space available immediately, now is the time to check out this prime commercial real estate for your new venture, business expansion or relocation. For more information and showings, call or text Gus at 204.761.5678 or email gusvasilarakis@gmail.com.