Professionals to Know in Westman | 2025

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THE BRANDON SUN n

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2025

Study: reading can save your life

Centum Mortgage Choice MORTGAGES

Alica Fulford

Avid readers may feel there’s noth- ing better than diving into a good book, but that book might be even more beneficial than they realize, particularly for older book lovers. A 2016 study published in the journal Social Science & Medicine noted that reading books can pro- mote empathy, social perception and emotional intelligence, nota- ble benefits that researchers found contributed to a survival advantage. Researchers behind the study noted book readers experienced a 20 per cent reduction in risk of mor- tality over a 12-year followup peri- od than non-book readers. Equally notable among the researchers’ findings was older individuals who read books enjoyed this survival ad- vantage regardless of their gender, overall health, socioeconomic sta- tus, or education levels. » Metro

A 2016 study indicates the many advantages of reading. (Metro)

Q Tell us about your professional background and experience. A This is my 10th year working as a broker and I’ve been fortunate to have been with Centum Mortgage for my whole career. I’ve always been interested in real estate, and becoming a broker gave me a different viewpoint on helping someone find a new home. I’ve worked in customer service in Brandon and the surrounding areas since I was a teen, and I love that I can continue to do so, and see my clients and business partners on a regular basis. Q Why should customers use your service? A Working with a broker gives you access to many different lenders and programs, and whether you’re a first time homebuyer or a seasoned shopper on your third rental property I have options that will fit your budget. I’m happy to work around your schedule to make the process as stress-free as possible, and best of all, my services come at no cost to you—I’m here to guide you every step of the way, on your time, without any added expenses. Q What about your company makes or has made you the most proud A Our office is a part of an award-winning Canada wide corporation, has been locally owned and operated for over 20 years, and we are proud to continue to serve our communities.

RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL APPRAISERS BARRY CUSITAR P.APP , CRA PAT WEIR P.APP, AACI, B A ROLAND WEIR APPRAISAL ASSOCIATES

Q: What inspired you to get into your chosen profession? A: We were in related businesses requiring professional appraisal services and found a need for expanded services in the region, which was a natural fit for assisting our existing and a wide range of new clients. Q: What is your speciality? What makes your services unique? A: We are an independent, professional appraisal practice with our Associates certified and accredited in the valuation profession with a long history of serving the western Manitoba region.

Q: When should clients use your service? A: Our firm and associates provide professional residential, farm, commercial, recreational and special use real estate appraisals to assist clients with their financial, family, future and business planning. Q: What about your company makes or has made you the most proud? A: Our history and involvement in assisting Manitobans with many of life’s most important decisions regarding real estate.

(204) 573-4859

centummortgagechoice.com

1015 – 26th Street, Brandon

204-727-7100

www.rolandweir.ca

MEET THE STRIDE TEAM Behind every great financial decision is a team you can count on. At Stride Credit Union, we’re proud to offer trusted advice, personalized service, and the right tools to help you reach your goals. Whether it’s everyday banking, saving and investing, or major life milestones like buying a home, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

877-228-2636

STRIDECU.CA

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