Sunrise Credit Union's 2024 Our Manitoba Photo Contest winner is Corinne Einarsson of Arborg. A panel of Sunrise staff selected Einarsson's photo ‘The Old Train Station’ as one of the 30 finalists from approximately 433 entries for this year's contest. Sunrise held a week-long public vote on the 30 finalists in April through the ourmanitoba.org website, with Einarsson's photo garnering the majority vote and claiming the top spot. Einarsson was exploring the town of Riverton in mid-July, with her camera in hand, and pulled up to the old train station as the rain clouds were rolling in. “It just looked so picture perfect – I had to stop. I’m glad I did it,” said Einarsson. Being crowned the winner of the 2024 edition of the Our Manitoba Photo Contest is a dream come true says Einarsson, “It’s an incredible feeling my photo resonated with the judges and audience. I am so grateful and humbled by this recognition. It means the world to me. I’m ecstatic and proud. Love you all.” Einarsson is proud to have captured the spirit of Manitoba, a province that honours the past, present and future in her winning photo. Photography is an outlet for Einarsson to preserve memories and tell stories. “When I am out and about, I love to capture the beauty around the Interlake area of the old and new. I usually never leave home without my camera,” says Einarsson. All 13 finalists will receive a canvas print of the winning photograph, be featured in the 2025 Sunrise Credit Union calendar, and have appeared on Sunrise Credit Union's branch TVs and social media channels. In addition, Einarsson earned the Grand Prize of a $500 One-Year Term Deposit from Sunrise Credit Union. 2024 marked the 12th edition of the Our Manitoba Photo Contest. Einarsson was revealed as the winner of the grand prize on Sunday May 12, which coincided with Manitoba Day.

A culinary oasis is set to tantalize taste buds and ignite food enthusiasts' passions. Chicken by Kanwal, the latest addition to the city's vibrant dining scene, is poised to redefine the takeout/delivery experience with its opening on Sunday, May 12. From sumptuous appetizers to decadent desserts, their menu is a symphony of flavors designed to cater to every palate. Indulge in the soft succulent taste explosion of their signature Charga Chicken, savor the delicate balance of spices in their Chicken Samosas, or embark on a culinary adventure with their Pizza Paratha. Chicken by Kanwal is located at 934 Rosser Ave in Brandon. For additional information on this restaurant please visit their Facebook page here.

The Brandon Chamber of Commerce announced the winners of its 2024 Business Achievement Awards (141st annual) at their Annual Awards Gala Thursday evening, in an event held at the Keystone Centre. Business Person of the Year: Carla Milne, MNP Business Excellence (Large):  The Paw Resort and Wellness Centre Business Excellence (Small): Resurrection Tint & Auto-Detailing Outstanding New Business: Circle B Fitness Community Impact Individual: Glen Parker Lifetime Business Builder: Ben Hernandez, Benny’s Restaurant and Catering Services Young Entrepreneur Award: Pinnacle Event Rentals and Limitless Events Westman’s Top 4 Under 4: Megan Foster, Mosaic Engagement; Mayur Nankar, West Fit; Katie Peters, Alair Homes Brandon; Kim Magalhaes, Westman Communications Group Community Impact Business: Kuipers Family Bakery “Being nominated for Westman’s Top 4 under 40 award is an incredible honour, one that I share with my colleagues, mentors, family, and friends whose encouragement and support have been integral to my journey,” said Kim Magalhaes. “I am deeply grateful for this recognition and humbled to be considered among such talented individuals. I’m genuinely excited about the opportunity to continue making a positive impact and am truly thankful forthis acknowledgement.” The “awards recognize, celebrate and profile the accomplishments of member businesses and individuals” each year.

In the heart of our bustling town, one local restaurant (Eastside Eatery) has found a unique way to blend entertainment with altruism, all while keeping its tables filled and spirits high. Several times a month, this cozy establishment hosts a Charity Trivia Night, a lively event that not only challenges the minds of participants but also warms the hearts of the community. The concept is simple yet brilliant: teams gather to test their knowledge across various categories, from history and pop culture to science and literature. But what sets this trivia night apart is its purpose—to raise funds for local charities and causes that are close to the hearts of both the restaurant staff and its patrons. The cost is only $10 per person, with teams consisting of 2-8 people. The Kinette Club of Brandon, Paws Crossed Animal Shelter & Adoption Centre, Special Olympics Westman and Cats TNR & Rescue are among the charities who have benefited from these events to date. The atmosphere on trivia nights is electric, with teams strategizing over questions, cheering for correct answers, and playfully ribbing each other over the ones that stump them. The restaurant buzzes with energy as friends, families, and even strangers bond over a shared love for trivia and a shared commitment to making a positive impact. For Eastside Eatery owners and staff, seeing their establishment packed to the brim with laughter and goodwill is its own reward. Not only does Charity Trivia Night keep their business thriving, but it also reaffirms their belief in the power of community and the importance of giving back. As the night draws to a close, winners are announced, prizes are awarded, and the total amount raised for the chosen charity is revealed. But beyond the final score, what truly matters is the sense of unity and purpose that permeates the room—a reminder that even in the midst of our busy lives, we can always find time to come together, have fun, and make a difference. For upcoming Charity Trivia nights at Eastside Eatery, please visit their Facebook page.

Sunrise Credit Union held its annual general meeting virtually on April 23, 2024, attended by 133 members and staff combined with 13 guests. The meeting included releasing the Sunrise Credit Union 2023 Annual Report, which included the audited financial statements. The statements reflect a Net Income of $10.1 million, Loan Growth of 2.40%, Deposit Growth of 5.04%, and Total Equity of 6.94%. “Our focus has always been on delivering exceptional service to our members,” said Sunrise President and CEO Tim Klassen, “I am proud to say that we have continued to uphold this commitment. Throughout the year, we have introduced new products and services tailored to meet the evolving needs of our members. Klassen reviewed some of the highlights for 2023, which marked the 15th anniversary for Sunrise Credit Union, including supporting many community projects, sponsorships, and events financially and through staff volunteerism. The 15th anniversary celebrations included a $15,000 giveaway won by Cameron Schettler of Grandview, Manitoba in October, and 20 separate $1,500 donations to local food banks for a total of $30,000 during the holiday season. Another highlight of 2023 was the introduction of the Building Communities Grant Program. Fifty-eight applications were received and the Elkhorn Ice Plant Replacement, Shoal Lake Aeration Project and the Holland Outdoor Arena were selected to received $15,000 each toward their project. Agnes Kokke, Chair of the Sunrise Credit Union Board of Directors, spoke of Sunrise’s 15th anniversary celebrations. Kokke noted that Sunrise has grown from its humble beginnings to an almost $2 billion Credit Union during that time, crediting their valued members for their continued success. “Despite stubborn inflation and interest rates not easing, Sunrise Credit Union has had another successful year, as noted in the financial statement.” Said Kokke, “This success is only possible because of the tireless dedication of the entire team at Sunrise Credit Union. From the frontline staff, executive staff, executive assistant to President & CEO, we commend you for your hard work, community spirit and volunteer work.” Chair of the Nominating Committee, Darryl Logeot, welcomed Carissa Caruk-Ganczar and announced Agness Kokke, Doug Van Damme, and Scott Thompson as re-appointees to the Board of Directors.