Westoba is celebrating 60 years of success in business. To show appreciation to their members and their communities, they are giving away $60,000.00 through Westoba Inspire in 2023. Westoba Inspire, Westoba Credit Unions' community investment program will open its second round of application submissions, September 1 – 30, 2023 for projects up to $30,000.00. "We are having an exciting year showing our appreciation to our members and our communities for 60 successful years of business,” said Jim Rediger, Westoba’s President, and CEO. “On top of the 700 hours of volunteer time our staff has given already this year, we are giving back $60,000.00. The Inspire program is a great opportunity for our communities to complete projects that will make a lasting impact in their areas, and I encourage organizations to apply.” “This support helps build strong and independent communities, which is at the heart of the credit union difference.” Said Rediger. Applicants must be a non-profit, charitable, or community organization or have a charitable fiscal agent to act on their behalf. Applications are reviewed by Westoba’s Community Investment Committee which includes staff, member, and Board representation. Successful applications are chosen based on their ability to align with Westoba’s goal to support community infrastructure. HOW TO APPLY to Westoba Inspire Applications will be accepted through an online application form available September 1 – 30 at www.westoba.com.

Our never-ending quest to introduce our readers to the very best rural dining options this time takes us to Neepawa. Rotor's Bakery in Neepawa (337 Mountain Ave) has been open for around four years serving not only pizza but also an array of Filipino Bakery items and treats like Pande Pao, Pande Cocoa, Creamy Leche Plan, Milky Loaf Bread, BITSO Bitso and more. The ultra-filling pizza is made fresh to order and at a really good price point. A large Canadian Choice pizza (pepperoni, mushroom, bacon) only set us back $19.95. As for the pizza itself, they are not shy with the toppings and sauce on the pizza and the dough is soft, relatively light in the middle with a nice crunchy crust.  The family-run business takes pride in their products and the results speak for themselves. Rotor’s Bakery & Pizzeria Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Rtor.25/ Please note there is no on-site dining, so you must purchase the pizza to go. Monday-Friday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Saturday 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Sunday CLOSED

As reported earlier by bdnmb.ca, KFC will be opening a location at the old Quizno's location (1815 Middleton Ave,) on Brandon's North Hill. A sign on the edge of the property now indicates the restaurant will feature a 24-hour drive-thru. KFC is a fast food restaurant chain known for its buckets of fried chicken, combo meals & sides. Once open, KFC will join McDonalds and 7-11 as one of the few locations in the city where you can purchase hot food anytime throughout the day.

So why not do a quick road trip to Souris for lunch. BDNMB.CA long term reader Gord Paziuk suggested "hey lets go and check out Woodfire Deli in Souris".  A locally owned and operated business for over a decade. A different vibe from most local Brandon restaurants. Plus they strive to utilize local food sources. The menu features everything from amazing and unique sandwiches - ice cream - pizza and so much more.   Plus Italian soft drinks and a bakery. Check out their Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/WoodfireDeliSouris

Sunrise Credit Union congratulates Dylan Ediger of Cypress River on being named a Valeyo Learning Grant recipient. Dylan is a hard-working individual unafraid to get his hands dirty to serve his community. He displays distinctive leadership skills, is very active in his community, and strives for excellence in his studies. Dylan recently graduated from Glenboro High School, where he was involved in sports and music. In his Grade 11 year, Dylan earned a sportsmanship award in Volleyball. He took piano and voice lessons throughout his middle years. He competed in local arts festivals, earning several awards for his effort. Dylan is proactive in his community, donating to a local cat rescue through an initiative that saw him and his brother grow sunflowers and charging people for taking selfies with the plants. He also volunteered with school sports programs, kids' community activities, and the Valley View Bible Camp. The Valeyo Learning Grant provides $1,200 scholarships to students who are members of a participating credit union in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Ontario. Applicants submit an essay of 500 words or less OR a video of two minutes or less describing their academic achievement, leadership, and community involvement. Dylan intends to use the scholarship to attend Bible college in Saskatchewan this fall.