Heritage Co-op is thrilled to share that $11,700 was raised through the annual Fuel Good Day, held on September 16. The donation will benefit seven local food banks serving Heritage Co-op communities and Westman Dreams for Kids. On Fuel Good Day, 10 cents from every litre of fuel sold at Heritage Co-op Gas Bars and $1 from every hot or iced coffee and Big Cool beverage purchased are donated to local charities. Thanks to the support of members and customers, this year’s efforts will make a meaningful difference in communities throughout the trading area. This year, Westman Dreams for Kids received $3,000 and Local Food Banks shared $8,700. Scott Major, President of Westman Dreams for Kids, shared heartfelt reflections on the impact this donation has on their organization, “Heritage Co-op’s generous $3,000 donation from Fuel Good Day will leave a lasting mark on Westman Dreams for Kids. This incredible support brings hope, joy, and unforgettable memories to children facing serious illnesses or life-changing challenges. Thanks to Heritage Co-op and everyone who fueled up, more dreams will come true and more families will feel the strength of their community standing with them. Fuel Good Day also saw incredible hands-on support from Wheat Kings players and the very non-profit organizations benefiting from the day. Volunteers came out to help spread the word, hand out free car air fresheners to customers, assist our Gas Bar crews with washing windshields and thanking supporters. In both Strathclair and Brandon, volunteers from partner charities stepped up to help host BBQs and boost the total raised. The Strathclair Community Centre raised an additional $853 during a lunch-time BBQ. In Brandon, the Richmond Avenue Gas Bar and Food Store partnered with the Memory Lane Car Club for a BBQ that raised $912 for the Brandon Regional Health Foundation - Pediatrics Unit. Fuel Good Day has become a Heritage Co-op tradition — one that gives members and customers a simple way to give back while fueling their everyday lives. Leanne DeVliegere, CEO of Heritage Co-op shared her enthusiasm for the event, “Every year, we’re amazed by how our members and guests rally around Fuel Good Day. This year’s total pushes us past $111,000 raised since 2017 — proof that small choices at the pump can create big change in our communities.” Heritage Co-op extends sincere thanks to every member, customer, and community partner who filled up, grabbed a coffee, or joined in on September 16 to make Fuel Good Day 2025 such a success. This incredible response shows the power of neighbors coming together to create meaningful change. By choosing Co-op, the community helped raise $11,700 in a single day — funds that will directly support local food banks and Westman Dreams for Kids. Heritage Co-op remains committed to investing in the communities it serves and is proud to stand alongside the people who make Westman stronger every day.

Thursday, October 16, 2025 is Election Day.  Residents of the Brandon School Division Ward 1 (City of Brandon) will have an opportunity to vote for candidates running in the School Trustee By-election at various voting locations throughout Brandon. The by-election was necessitated by the resignation of a board trustees earlier this year.  Seven (7) candidates have put their names forward to fill the vacant seat for the City. Voting Places will be open from 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.  and are located at: Monterey Estates Recreation Hall                                           40 Mockingbird Drive, Brandon McDiarmid Drive Alliance Church                                            635 McDiarmid Drive, Brandon Victoria Inn, Salon 2                                                                    3550 Victoria Avenue, Brandon Brandon Shoppers Mall – Unit 22                                            1570 – 18th Street, Brandon Brandon School Division Administration Office                   1031 – 6th Street, Brandon East End Community Centre                                                     405 Park Street, Brandon To be eligible to vote in this election, a person must be 18 years of age, a Canadian citizen, and live the school division for a period of at least six months at the date of the election (since April 16, 2025).  Voters may vote at the Voting Place which they find most convenient. Identification will be required before being allowed to vote.  A person will be required to produce one piece of government issued photo identification, eg. driver’s license or at least two other documents that provide proof of identity and residence. Information on the candidates is available on the Brandon Votes website at www.brandon.ca/votes.  The  website will also carry live, up-to-the-minute results of the school trustee race following the close of polls on October 16th.  

On October 12, 2025, shortly before 4:00 pm, police observed a 37-year-old male who was wanted on outstanding charges in the 000 block of 10th street.  Upon the male’s arrest he was found to be in possession of a small amount of Meth and a hatchet.  He was lodged to appear in court on charges of Possess Controlled Substance, Possess Weapon Dangerous, and Fail to Comply with Release Order X2.

The Brandon Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating this person who is “WANTED BY POLICE”: Darlene POMPANA FOR Identity Fraud / Operation While Prohibited. On the 25th day of July, POMPANA, a 39-year-old female, did fraudulently personate another female. POMPANA also operated a vehicle while prohibited from doing so. At this time the whereabouts of POMPANA is unknown and as a result the Brandon Police Service has issued a warrant for POMPANA’s arrest. CRIME OF THE WEEK for October 9th, 2025 The Brandon Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in solving a Pointing a Firearm / Mischief Under $5000. This male attempted to kick in a door and broke a window. He was also reported to have pulled out a handgun while passerby’s were walking past. ************** If you have information about this or any other crime you are asked to contact Brandon Crime Stoppers @ 204-727-TIPS (8477), www.brandoncrimestoppers.com or by texting BCSTIP+your message to CRIMES (274637). Crime Stoppers does not subscribe to Call Display. Your call is not recorded and your identity will remain anonymous. Crime Stoppers will pay up to $2000.00 cash for information that leads to the solution of a crime.

After thoughtful reflection and conversations with residents across the municipality, Mike Waddell is announcing his decision to put his name forward to run for Reeve  of the Rural Municipality of Cornwallis. Mike is no stranger to municipal leadership. As a former member of the RM of Cornwallis Council, he has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to the community, advocating for practical solutions and responsible governance. His time on council was marked by a handson approach, a willingness to listen, and a focus on ensuring that the voices of residents were heard and respected. “I’ve always believed that local government works best when it’s transparent, accountable, and rooted in strong communication,” said Waddell. “That’s why I’m stepping forward—to be a part of stabilizing things in our community. I believe that there are many great things happening in Cornwallis and want to serve as a part of helping bring creative, stable and accessible leadership with a team approach.” Mike’s vision for the RM includes: • Improved transparency in decision-making and budgeting • Open and consistent communication between council and residents • Smart growth strategies that support agriculture, business, and infrastructure • A renewed focus on community pride, safety, and environmental stewardship With deep roots in the region and a passion for public service, Mike is ready to bring fresh energy and experienced leadership to the role of Reeve. He looks forward to engaging with residents throughout the campaign and working together to shape a stronger future for the RM of Cornwallis.