Westman Communications Group (WCG) is proud to announce that Board  Treasurer, Tamra Rapsky, was awarded the Assiniboine Credit Union Community Impact  (Individual) Award. The recognition was presented on May 7 at the 143rd Annual Chamber  Business Achievement Awards Gala.  The Assiniboine Credit Union Community Impact Award recognizes individuals and businesses  that demonstrate exceptional leadership and a commitment to the enhancement of the  community. For almost a year, Rapsky has been with WCG and serves as its Treasurer on the Board of Directors. Rapsky holds an MBA from Laurentian University, serves as a mentor to  many, and invests her time in board work, committees, and philanthropy.  “We are incredibly proud to have a leader like Tamra on our Board,” said WCG President & CEO,  Bud Keys. “This award is a testament to her deep-rooted contributions to our region. Having  her serve as our Treasurer is invaluable to WCG; her dedication ensures that our efforts remain  focused on the ultimate good of the communities and members we serve.”  The awards Gala celebrated the impact of individuals and businesses in the community, and  Rapsky, WCG Board of Directors’ Treasurer, was a part of that. Rapsky’s recognition highlights  the calibre of leadership at WCG and the shared values of community investment. For more  information on WCG’s Board of Directors, please visit our website: Board of Directors |  Westman 

L to R: Debbie Strelczik (Loans Officer, Sunrise Credit Union) presenting Our MB winner, Donna Lach with a canvas of her winning picture. Sunrise Credit Union has just wrapped up the 2026 edition of the Our Manitoba Photo Contest, with  Donna Lach being crowned the winner.  A panel of Sunrise staff selected 30 finalists from approximately 650 entries – the highest number to date.  In April, Sunrise hosted a week-long public vote on the finalists through the ourmanitoba.org website,  with Lach’s photo Inukshuk at the Shore receiving the majority of votes and claiming the top spot.  After learning about the inukshuk and how it can be a symbol of guidance, community, and survival, Lach  became intrigued by it. “When I went to Churchill for the first time, to take photos of the aurora with a  group of people in 2022, I saw this icon standing on the shore of Hudson Bay. It was "showing the way". I  was thrilled for the opportunity to capture this incredible icon on Treaty 5 land in Churchill, with the  aurora behind it,” said Lach. Winning the 2026 edition of the Our Manitoba Photo Contest has been amazing, Lach says, “I am so very  honoured to have my photo selected by the people of Manitoba. I really am flabbergasted. Thank you for  this opportunity!”  A passionate photographer for over 50 years, Lach always has had at least one camera. “Manitoba is such  a beautiful province, I think mostly I love to capture the scenes, the flora and fauna, and candid shots (of  people) that will tell a story,” Lach shared.   For years, Lach has been capturing the aurora borealis, and since 2019, she has contributed to  Aurorasaurus, a NASA-sponsored citizen-science project, as well as Skywarden in Finland. These  platforms let enthusiasts and researchers track, document, and study auroras in real time. “It’s all  volunteer work,” Lach explains, “but I’ve been invited to take part in projects that study the aurora. I have  sold a few prints because people ask, but my main focus is sharing my photos with others online."  All 12 finalists will receive a canvas print of the winning photograph, be featured in the 2026 Sunrise  Credit Union calendar, and have their work showcased on Sunrise Credit Union’s branch TVs and social  media channels. In addition, Lach claimed the Grand Prize: a $500 One-Year Term Deposit from Sunrise  Credit Union.  The 2026 contest marked the 14th edition of the Our Manitoba Photo Contest. Lach was announced as the  grand prize winner on Monday, May 12 - coinciding with Manitoba Day. Experiencing Manitoba through  the eyes of our talented participants continues to inspire and delight everyone at Sunrise Credit Union.  

A new sweet spot is coming to Brandon as Dale's Candy Co. prepares to open a retail location inside the  Shoppers Mall. The candy retailer, known for its wide selection of treats, chocolates, gummies, novelty candies, and snacks, recently appeared on the mall’s online directory as “Coming Soon.” The business currently operates a storefront at Winnipeg’s Outlet Collection mall, The addition of Dale’s Candy Co. will bring another specialty retailer to Brandon’s largest shopping centre, which features more than 80 stores and services. While an official opening date has not yet been announced, the upcoming shop is expected to appeal to candy lovers of all ages looking for unique sweets and hard-to-find treats in the city.

On May 7, the Brandon Chamber of Commerce hosted its Annual Business Achievement Awards Gala—a night filled with community pride, inspiring stories, and well-deserved recognition.  The event was hekd in the Manitoba Room at the Keystone Centre. Award Highlights: Community Impact (Individual): Tamra Rapsky Community Impact (Business): Greg Gingras, Lifetime Business Builder: Bob Mazer Outstanding New Business: Compass Coach Lines Top 4 Under 40: Chris Hun (Assiniboine College), Kyla Neufield (Alair Homes Brandon), Courtney Matienzo (Mazergroup), Lindsey Raupers (Loft Accounting) Business Excellence (Small): Reesor’s Jewellery. Business Excellence (Large): Glenn Butt (Canadian Tire) Business Person of the Year: Dale McKay CEO of Shur-Gro Farm Services

A popular Canadian shawarma chain is preparing to expand into the Wheat City, with Osmow’s expected to open its first Brandon location (825 18TH ST N) in the near future. While an official opening date has not yet been formally announced, excitement has already been building among fans of the fast-growing Mediterranean restaurant brand. Founded in Ontario in 2001, Osmow's has grown to more than 225 locations across Canada and the United States, becoming known for its shawarma wraps, “On the Rocks” rice bowls, and signature garlic sauce. The company currently operates 2 locations in Winnipeg, The addition of Osmow’s would continue a wave of new restaurant and business development in Brandon, as several national and regional brands have recently announced expansions into the city. Residents have increasingly embraced new dining options, particularly in the quick-service and international cuisine sectors.