It’s that magical time of the year when families start new traditions or maintain those that have been passed down for generations. Paying a visit to Jolly Old Saint Nicholas is a popular Christmas tradition that tends to bring smiles to children’s faces and leaves them with a lasting memory. The hugs, the sharing of the wish lists, the smiles and of course the photographs that capture the memory are often all part of this special experience. Santa Photo Central, a division of Champion Digital Photography, has many years of experience in offering this service to Westman residents. Owner Amber White said the experience that they offer families is completely different from what you’ll find anywhere else. “It’s not just about standing line, getting a minute or two with Santa and then moving on. What we offer is basically a private visit with a very kind, authentic-looking Santa. The children aren’t rushed and can spend quality time with him. Sometimes he even dances and sings with the children or reads them stories,” said White. Santa Photo Central is conveniently located in the Town Centre. Access to the pop-up location is available through the Parkade only; be sure to ask for a token to take advantage of the free parking. In addition to getting quality photos and spending time with Santa Claus, Santa Photo Central also provides children with free homemade cookies and they have different themed playrooms and areas to make their visit even more special. Photos are printed within minutes and there are a variety of options and packages to choose from. The best part is, you don’t have to make an appointment. Just stop in (during regular business hours) and Santa’s helpers will professionally capture your little ones visit with Santa. They also have a fantastic selection of gift items including photo frames, ornaments, snow globes, and stuffed animals. There are also special dates, such as Pet Photos with Santa (Dec 9) that are coming up in December. Check their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Champion-Digital-Photography-802915289772969/ or call 204-727-6331 for complete details on all that Santa Photo Central has to offer and to get their hours of operation.

Erika Shelvey first started nail school at Systems Beauty College in Brandon, in August of 2012. She always had an interest for nails and beauty so she decided to go for it.  Erika graduated from Systems in 2013 and did her apprenticeship at Get Nailed Salon and Spa.  During that time she also took her courses for eyelash extensions, eyelash lifts and tints as well as body sugaring, all taught by the ladies at The Beauty Theory in Winnipeg.   In 2016 Erika decided that she wanted to open her own small business and work for herself. At that point she elected to go mobile, and offer in home appointments. She found out pretty quickly that there was a demand for a mobile nail salon. As Erika tells bdnmb.ca "Business was and still is going great".   She has since moved to a home just outside of Shilo, where she opened up a small home salon, where she can offer all of her services. Currently, she is mostly working from home, but still does offer mobile services as well.   Erika has a real passion for the industry and is always taking part in any art classes or shaping classes that are available to her.  She has travelled as far as Saskatoon to learn from Celina Ryden, a well known Nail Tech from Sweden.  Erika will go above and beyond to try and please every single one of her clients and is always open to trying anything!   Her Facebook page is Nails by Erika and her Instagram page is @nails.by.erikaa.  She posts pictures of all her work, as well as new products, new techniques, and her monthly specials.

BRANDON MB, November 29 ,2018—Westman Communications Group has been selected as one of Manitoba’s Top 30 Employers for 2019. The provincial award recognizes Manitoba employers that are leaders in their industries as an exceptional place to work. Westman was selected as a Top Employer based on a list of criteria, including physical workplace environment, atmosphere, benefits, vacation, community involvement, and their skills and training development. The selection process compares employer applicants to other organizations in their field to determine which offers the most advanced and progressive programs. “We are very proud to be recognized for the second year in a row as one of Manitoba’s top 30 business employers,” stated Dave Baxter, President and Chief Executive Officer of Westman Communications Group. “With innovation being one of our key corporate values, we are always looking for new ways to implement forward-thinking initiatives in our workplace. This provincial award reflects our commitment to that value as well as our other corporate values of community, customer experience, integrity and teamwork.” Winners were announced in a special edition magazine published by The Winnipeg Free Press.

The new and improved 17,000 square foot Shoppers Drug Mart opened this morning at Shoppers Mall. Photo Credit - Ernie Mallis Shoppers Drug Mart was purchased by Loblaws for 12.4 billion dollars in 2014.

BRANDON, MANITOBA--(November 13, 2018) – Following a successful merger with HomeLife Home Professional Realty in April 2017; RE/MAX Valleyview Realty is excited to take the next step in their business plan by moving to a brand new office (1209 Richmond Ave) on May 1, 2019.   RE/MAX Valleyview Realty is home to 37 Real Estate Professionals that serve the Western Manitoba area, providing realty services to over 30 communities including Brandon.   The new building features over 9,450 square feet, of which RE/MAX Valleyview Realty will occupy over 3,874 square feet. The modern design will provide the real estate professionals with the ability to work in an environment with cutting edge technology, fantastic parking and exposure allowing every advantage possible to provide excellent customer service to clients.   For information on leasing some of the remaining 5,577 square feet please contact your favorite RE/MAX Valleyview Realty Agent at 204-729-3550.