Show Brandon and the entire Westman region what makes your company stand out. Share your story, your history, growth and exciting changes. Highlight your team, showcase your products and services or celebrate the opening of your new location.
Westman
Business OCTOBER 24, 2026
2026 Special Supplement
THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 24, 2026
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Big Plans, Local Support
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OCTOBER 24, 2026 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN Big Plans Need Local Support F or business owners, choosing a financial partner involves more than products and rates. It’s about finding an organization Business
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owners today need both personalized service and modern convenience. We believe they shouldn’t have to choose between the two.”
that understands your business, your industry,
and the community where you operate.
Fusion Credit Union believes that local businesses deserve local expertise, acces- sible service, and financial solutions built around long-term relationships. While larg- er financial institutions may offer national scale, Fusion offers something different: a deep understanding of the people, business- es, and communities they serve. One of the most significant advantages of Fusion is local decision-making. “Our Ag/Commercial Relationship Man- agers live and work in the communities they serve,” says Brett Norrie, Director of Lending Solutions. “They understand the realities fac- ing local businesses because they experience them firsthand. They know the industries driving our economy, understand seasonal challenges, recognize growth opportunities, and see the impact businesses have on our communities every day.” That insight helps Fusion provide relevant advice and practical financial solutions that reflect local realities. Ag/Commercial Relationship Managers at Fusion are more than financial profession- als. They are neighbours, volunteers, coach- es, board members, customers, and fellow community members. “You will see us at local hockey rinks, com- munity events, agricultural fairs, fundraisers, and business functions,” Norrie says. “We have a genuine connection to the communi- ties we serve because we live here too.” Norrie further adds that familiarity helps build trust. “Many of our members know our staff personally, and our staff know their members beyond just the numbers on a fi- nancial statement. We understand that be- hind every business account is a person, a family, a team of employees, and a vision for the future.” This people-first approach at Fusion helps shape how services are delivered. Whether financing equipment, expanding operations, managing cash flow, or pursuing a new op- portunity, timely communication matters.
— PAM GALATIUK, MANAGER, LENDING SOLUTIONS
“That’s why our members have direct access to the people supporting their busi- ness,” Norrie says. “Our team members provide direct phone numbers and email addresses, making it easy to reach some- one who already understands your opera- tion and can respond quickly when mem- bers need assistance.” Fusion takes the time to get to know members personally. “In our branches, you’ll often be asked for your name rath- er than an account number,” explains Pam Galatiuk, Manager, Lending Solutions. “That may seem like a small detail, but it reflects a larger philosophy. We see our members as people first. We value the re- lationships we’ve built, and we believe personalized service still matters in today’s increasingly digital world.” At the same time, being local doesn’t mean being limited. While Fusion proudly serves members through 18 branch loca- tions, their reach extends far beyond their physical footprint. “Our Ag/Commercial Relationship Managers regularly travel to farms, businesses, and rural communities to meet members where they are,” adds Galatiuk. “We also serve businesses and
Laura Brownlee, Ag Commercial Relationship Manager, discusses business products and services at Fusion Credit Union. (Supplied)
individuals across the region, extending our reach beyond the communities where our branches are located.” Through a combination of on-site visits, digital banking tools, virtual meetings, and responsive local support, Fusion makes it easy for members to access the exper- tise they need regardless of their location. “Business owners today need both person- alized service and modern convenience,” says Galatiuk. “We believe they shouldn’t have to choose between the two.” When financial decisions are made by Fusion members, they are backed by lo-
cal knowledge and local relationships, not solely by centralized processes. That means conversations focus on understanding each business’s unique needs and finding solutions that support long-term success. “Because, at the end of the day, banking extends far beyond individual transac- tions,” emphasizes Norrie. “It’s about hav- ing a trusted financial partner who knows your business, understands your commu- nity, and is invested in your success. That’s the difference local makes.” ■
THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 24, 2026
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Stride Account Manager BJ Birch and Jaret Murray Vice-President of Ag and Commercial visit Bailey Farms near Carberry. (Submitted) More Than Just a Harvest A fter weeks of wet weather, a stretch of sunshine during potato
Maybe retirement is still decades away. Maybe it’s starting to feel a lot closer. May- be the goal is to grow before you ever think about slowing down. Or maybe you simply want to know that when the time comes, you’ll have options. Those are financial questions, but the an- swers aren’t found in the numbers alone. Understanding what someone wants to ac- complish also means understanding what they’ve built, how their operation works, the challenges they face, and what matters to them and their family. That’s particularly true in agriculture and business, where two operations that look similar on paper can have very different stories behind them. It’s why relationships have always been an important part of how Stride Credit Union works with its members. A financial state- ment can tell part of the story. A conver- sation around the kitchen table, a visit to a business, or an afternoon spent seeing a farm in operation can tell much more. Because behind most financial decisions
is a more personal question: What do you actually want? A farm your kids might want someday. A business that can carry on without you. The freedom to retire when you’re ready. A home you finally own outright. Something to leave your family. Or simply enough breathing room to feel comfortable about what comes next. Meals in the Field is one of the ways Stride goes beyond everyday banking to build meaningful relationships with its members. It’s an opportunity to step outside the of- fice, spend time with members, and better understand the farms, businesses, and lives they’re working to build. The numbers will always matter. But good financial advice takes more than knowing the numbers. It takes knowing the people behind them. ■
Stride Account Manager BJ and Jaret, Vice-President of Ag and Commercial, also had an opportunity to see the operation first- hand. Lori took them into the fields to watch the potato harvesters in action, while Terry provided a look at the farm’s unloading, pro- cessing and storage system back at the yard. Despite the challenging conditions lead- ing up to harvest, the operation moved like a well-oiled machine. But beyond the equipment, bins of pota- toes, and pace of harvest, the visit was also a reminder of what a farm represents. Years of work. Decisions made season after season. It’s where conversations about money be- come conversations about much more. For anyone who has spent years building a farm or a business, there eventually comes a point when the questions begin to change. How much longer do you want to work? What would stepping back actually look like? Is there someone who wants to take over? And if there is, how do you make that transi- tion work for everyone involved?
harvest meant there wasn’t a minute to waste at Bailey Farms near Carberry. So when representatives from Stride Credit Union stopped by with more than 30 meals for the crew during one of their Meals in the Field visits, supper had to fit around the work — not the other way around.
OCTOBER 24, 2026 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN
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Celebrating their 65th Harvest in 2026
The team at Stride is easy to talk to, flexible with our needs, and always available to provide hands-on assistance. Having someone there in person when it matters most is invaluable. - Lori Bailey
Farming has always been a family e ff ort at Bailey Farms. Now celebra a ng their 65th harvest, the Bailey’s are proud of the legacy that has been built over four genera a ons. Every member of the family plays an important role in the success of the farm. Seeing their grandchildren already eager to pitch in reminds Terry and Lori why they do what they do. They believe that involving them from a young age helps ins a ll a strong work ethic, a sense of responsibility, and a love for agriculture. Their hope is that they will one day become the fifi h genera a on to carry Bailey Farms forward and help it con a nue to thrive for years to come.
Bailey Farms Carberry, MB
Stride Credit Union is proud to serve agriculture and commercial members just like Bailey Farms across all of our communi i es. If you’re interested in seeing what Stride has to o ff er your farm or business, contact us today. Our Account Managers would be happy to discuss how Stride Credit Union would bene fi t your opera i on.
StrideCU.ca
877-228-2636
ContactUs@StrideCU.ca
THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 24, 2026
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Wheat City Seeds partner Al Martin takes a sample of forage peas while they’re unloaded at the company’s operation just east of Kemnay. Martin says Wheat City sells forage peas along with seeds for cover crops and other annual forage seeds into the United States. (Matt Goerzen/The Brandon Sun) Westman businesses feel tariff pressures, look for new opportunities
But across the region, businesses say the trade war is changing the way they think about costs, customers, suppliers and mar- kets, even as some see opportunities emerg- ing from the uncertainty. The impact on the agricultural equip- ment business has not come from one tar- iff or one product, but from a collection of smaller increases that have added up, Ma- zer Group president Ben Voss said. The company is a dealer rather than a manufacturer and serves customers throughout the Westman. It buys equip- ment and products from U.S. suppliers, as well as Canadian manufacturers whose own production costs can be affected by tariffs
on imported materials and components. “It’s not one impact, but rather a series of smaller impacts that, together, have a significant harmful effect,” he told the Sun. “Many of the products we import from the United States are now subject to duties be- cause of Canada’s counter-tariffs. We also sell farm equipment from several compa- nies, some Canadian and some American, and all are facing higher costs because of tariffs on steel and aluminum.” The company has been looking for alter- native suppliers where possible, but when there is no alternative, higher costs have to be absorbed or passed along to customers. The pressure is also being felt indirectly
through farmers, who are also feeling the effects of higher fertilizer and diesel fuel prices. Higher fuel prices make it harder for them to turn a profit, he said. “That af- fects us indirectly because when farmers have less money to work with, they tend to spend less on equipment.” For Westman Lumber Supply, the chal- lenge is also less about products disap- pearing from shelves than the price of get- ting them there. The company has been dealing with tar- iff increases, surcharges and higher freight costs, particularly on products such as fasteners and other metal items, general manager Kevin Fast said.
BY ABIOLA ODUTOLA F or some Westman businesses, the Canada- U.S. trade dispute is showing up in higher prices. For others, it is showing up as uncer- tainty — a question about whether the products they buy or sell will be caught in the next round of tariffs and for some, the impact so far has been little more than noise.
OCTOBER 24, 2026 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN
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“It’s just getting more expensive,” Fast said. “The company has tried to shield customers from the full impact by absorbing some in- creases or implementing only part of the ad- ditional cost.” Fast said the approach is intended to keep customers happy while recognizing that the company cannot absorb rising costs indefinitely. “We try to be open about it, and, yeah, so it doesn’t surprise anybody,” he said. Fast said the combination of supply is- sues, price increases and staffing challeng- es continues to make operating a growing business difficult. Yet not every Westman business is feeling the tariff effects in the same way. For Wheat City Seeds, the biggest issue at present is uncertainty over whether its prod- ucts will ultimately be affected. The company has operated for 15 years and retails and wholesales seed locally, elsewhere in Canada and in the United States. Partner Al Martin said the company sells different pulses and cereals for planting, mainly cover crops, into U.S. markets. So far, however, tariffs have had virtually no effect on the company. Martin said products had remained unaf- fected under the existing trade arrangement, apart from a brief period when tariffs were introduced and then withdrawn. As a result, the latest tariff announcements have left the company waiting for more spe- cific information.
The company expects its customs broker to advise whether particular products will be affected. “It’s until it comes probably to the 11th hour,” Martin said, that the company may know whether planting seed will be impacted. That uncertainty is itself becoming a busi- ness challenge. Uncertainty is the biggest soft spot in the local economy, Brandon Chamber of Com- merce president Emelio Brown said. “Brandon’s biggest strength right now is that our economy is diverse,” Brown said. “Agriculture, manufacturing, construction, retail, health care and education are sectors that help cushion one another.” But constantly changing trade rules make it difficult for businesses to price jobs, hold inventory or decide whether to hire, he said. “It’s hard to price a job, hold inventory or commit to hiring when you don’t know what’s coming next,” Brown said. Agriculture and manufacturing are among the sectors Brown hears about most from Chamber members. Some manufacturers that sell products into the United States are facing U.S. tariffs on their exports while simultaneously pay- ing more for parts and materials brought into Canada, he said. “That creates a difficult choice: absorb the costs and accept narrower margins, or raise prices and potentially lose customers,” he said.
Brandon Chamber of Commerce president Emelio Brown says constantly changing trade rules cause uncertainty in the local economy. (Supplied)
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THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 24, 2026
8 Agricultural producers face a different but related problem — uncertainty about con- tinued access to the U.S. market. For producers already in the middle of an agricultural season, Brown said, finding an- other market is not something that can hap- pen overnight. Yet there are bright spots. One is the growing willingness of Canadi- ans to support domestic businesses. Voss said the trade dispute has gener- ated a sense of domestic pride, with some consumers choosing to shop locally and ac- cepting slightly higher prices to keep money within Canada. He sees that as a potentially lasting benefit. “There’s a fair bit of a strong unity that I think is coming out of this,” Voss said. Another opportunity is diversification. Voss pointed to Westman businesses that are developing markets outside the United States, particularly in Asia. He said companies such as HyLife, which exports pork to Asia, demonstrate how ex- panded international markets can have ben- efits beyond the individual company. If demand grows for Manitoba pork, grain and other agricultural products, the benefits can circulate through farmers, suppliers and other businesses in Westman. Voss also pointed to Canada Packers as an example of a Brandon business that can ben- efit from selling into other markets. The broader lesson, he said, is that West- man may emerge from the trade dispute with
preneurial skills and new businesses to the community. Businesses are appreciative of government support already offered, particularly targeted grants for companies directly affected by tar- iffs, the chamber president said. He cautioned, however, against relying too heavily on loans and tax deferrals, arguing that debt can create another burden for busi- nesses once a crisis has passed. The Chamber also sees value in encourag- ing consumers to buy locally. For Voss, the long-term hope is that West- man and Canada can emerge from the cur- rent period more resilient and more diver- sified while maintaining a healthy trading relationship with the United States. “The good news” coming from the situa- tion, he said, is the willingness of Canadians to support each other. The trade relationship may eventually re- turn to normal. But if Westman businesses use the dis- ruption to build stronger local connections and find new markets, Voss said the region could emerge better positioned for whatever comes next. “If we can be resilient and competitive and efficient and build a strong economy during this time,” he said, “then we’re go- ing to be even more prosperous when we come out of it.” ■
If we can be resilient and competitive and efficient and build a strong economy during this time, then we’re going to be even more prosperous when we come out of it.”
— BEN VOSS, PRESIDENT, MAZER GROUP
a more diversified economy. The Brandon Chamber sees another major bright spot closer to home: CFB Shilo. Brown said the military base already contributes more than $100 million an- nually to the local economy and employs about 1,800 people. Federal investment in housing, infrastruc- ture and modernization is expected to gen-
erate hundreds of millions of dollars in con- struction and related activity, he said. “The planned arrival of about 1,000 mili- tary personnel and their families could pro- vide another boost to Brandon businesses by adding customers and workers to the local economy,” he said. Brown said military spouses and other family members could also bring entre-
» aodutola@brandonsun.com » X: @AbiolaOdutola
OCTOBER 24, 2026 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN
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Wheat City Seeds partner Al Martin sits with a bucket of forage peas outside his operation just east of Kemnay. Forage seeds is one of the crops that his company sells into the United States, along with other cover crop seeds and annual forage . (Matt Goerzen/The Brandon Sun)
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THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 24, 2026 10 Celebrating 70 years of craftsmanship and innovation
BY WENDY KING T ime is a powerful test of commitment, whether it be to an idea, a project, a place, or a business. Here in Manitoba, J&G Homes continues to demonstrate a strong commitment, tested by time and forged in relationships with the people they build for and the communities where they live. “We are committed to ensuring our cus- tomers receive the very best value and ser- vice experience, delivered with integrity and respect. Our goal is to achieve lifetime relationships with our customers, business partners and employees in an environment that encourages new ideas, innovation and growth,” says Jennifer Joubert, content and brand specialist at J&G Homes. Established in Brandon in 1956 by Jake Jacobson and Walter Greiner, the company is celebrating 70 years of working and build- ing in southwestern Manitoba. They’ve con- sistently offered quality craftsmanship as a trusted industry leader across a full range of innovation design, and custom development from building affordable homes to prestige properties and commercial developments. What began as a local construction busi- ness has flourished across three generations of the Jacobson family and thrives today as a family-owned group headed by Jared Ja- cobson. Throughout the decades of growth, the family-business ethos and rootedness to the Brandon community remain as qualities which have enabled the company to adapt to the changing needs of their clients. “Customers today want to be much more involved in the process, and I think that is a positive change. They have access to more inspiration and information than ever be- fore, so they come to us with very clear ideas about how they want their home to feel and function,” says Joubert. “Our role has evolved from simply build- ing a home to guiding customers through hundreds of decisions and turning those ideas into something that works in real life.” That collaborative process means custom- ers are choosing more than a house: they are giving thought to how they want to live, how their family may change, who they will wel- come into their homes, and even whether they will work from home. “Our process reflects all of that,” she says. “Clients start by talking with our sales team about their needs, budget and wish list. From there, our drafting team can mod-
Jeff Mann - General Manager of J&G Homes (Supplied)
More important than the
places and spaces we build are the people we serve.”
Amanda McDougald: Senior Drafter (left) Jillian Adair : Designer (rght). (Supplied)
To gather those stories, Manitobans are invited to share their genuine J&G story, memory or experience through the website. Stories should be between 75 and 500 words. Storytellers will be entered for a chance to win a $70,000 credit towards a new build. And, true to the company’s own family roots, this offer can be passed down through your next generation. For 70 years, J&G Homes has built qual- ity homes and communities in southwest Manitoba, but more important than the places and spaces they build are the people they serve. “Seventy years does not happen because of one person or one generation. It happens because people continue to trust you. Fami- lies trust you with one of the biggest invest- ments and most personal spaces in their lives,” says Jennifer Joubert. “Our customers are the foundation to our success.” ■
working alongside you,” she says. And that’s why this anniversary year, J&G Homes is doing more than just marking a day on a calendar. “When a company reaches 70 years, it would be easy to tell the story through dates, buildings and milestones. But that isn’t real- ly what 70 years means. It represents thou- sands of individual stories: people getting the keys to their first home, families growing, employees who have spent years building this company, trades and partners we have worked alongside, and neighbourhoods that have grown around those homes,” she says. “That’s where our ‘70 Years. Thousands of Stories’ campaign comes from.” The campaign is a celebration, and Man- itobans are invited to share the stories con- nected to their J&G - built homes. Joubert explains that they want the anniversary to be about recognizing and celebrating the peo- ple who made those years possible. “J&G’s history belongs to all of the people in our community,” says Joubert.
— JENNIFER JOUBERT, CONTENT AND BRAND SPECIALIST, J&G HOMES
ify plans, and our designer will work directly with homeowners on finishes and details. Our construction team then carries that vi- sion through to possession.” For J&G Homes, the role has grown be- yond the construction of individual houses. “We’re helping create neighbourhoods where people live, raise families and put down roots,” she says. The story of J&G has never been only about houses, it’s about the people who built them, the families who have lived in them and the memories created inside them. “Employees choose to build their careers with you. Trades and businesses continue
» wendyjbking@gmail.com
OCTOBER 24, 2026 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN
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1956-2026
Enter Today
THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 24, 2026 12 Get into the holiday spirit with The Green Spot
BY WENDY KING I t’s time to kick off the merriest of seasons with the Green Spot Home & Garden’s yuletide activities and festive retail offerings. Bernie Whetter, owner at the Green Spot, says he and his staff always enjoy seeing their customers, especially as Christmas ap- proaches. “Many customers have become friends over the years,” he says. “And we’re just as ex- cited to meet and welcome new people! “We have so many local products in-store, Westman shoppers can get everything they need right here at home without having to travel and we are delighted that we can do that for them.” The Green Spot’s events calendar is filled with seasonal spirit. Saturday, Nov. 7 marks the official open- ing of Christmas Unwrapped, the Green Spot Christmas Market. “All our seasonal merchandise is on dis- play along with some specials and a little entertainment to make the shopping even more fun,” he says. Saturday, Nov. 14 sees the return of De Nardi’s sommeliers with the Wine Around the World sale. “De Nardi will present unique wines from about a dozen different countries - none of which are found in the local liquor stores,” he says. “It’s a wonderful event for the wine enthu- siast or someone looking for that something special for the Christmas season.” Guests can sample all the wines and select just one special bottle, a case or more. Also on hand will be De Nardi’s gift packages and fine foods. The Santa Claus Parade is coming to town on Saturday, Nov. 21 and the Green Spot float is joining the line-up. “I get so much enjoyment out of being in the parade with my grandkids along with some of our staff on board our float,” he says. “It’s a joy to see so many excited fami- lies, and so much participation from local businesses.” Santa Claus will be in the house every Sat- urday and Sunday from Nov. 28 through Dec. 20 for photos in a new village space designed just for him. “Cynthia Korman is our wonderful pho- tographer and she always gets those quality photos,” says Whetter. Mrs. Claus will also pay a visit with cook- ies and story time, so watch social media for those dates. “Both Santa and Mrs. Claus love coming here and we love having them!” Music fills the halls on Dec. 5 with the Tuba Christmas concert and Dec. 12 with the
The Green Spot owner Bernie Whetter, with his 14-year-old dog Soffie, outside the company building at 1451 Rosser Avenue East. (Matt Goerzen/The Brandon Sun)
is decked out for Christmas with the unique and beautiful items curated by Whetter and his staff. “All our quality fall and winter clothing styles are in-stock for great giftable items,” he says. Tropical and house plants are lovely-to-re- ceive gifts especially when combined with a decorative pot or planter. And for those that love tradition - poinsettias are also in stock. Christmas trees and wreaths are ready to go, and if you want to design a wreath your- self, check the website for a workshop. The Secret Garden Café offers a season- ally-tweaked menu, and you can take home Manitoba-made foods like frozen soup, Gimli Fish pickerel, Sandy Lake pork prod- ucts, grass-fed beef and more. Be sure to grab some of the Green Spot’s own delecta- ble Foxtail Fudge in eight yummy flavours. “We’re so happy that we can offer our ser- vices to the local community and that we can feature lots of local products,” says Bernie Whetter. “And from myself and all our staff, we are wishing everyone a great Christmas!” The Green Spot Home & Garden is locat- ed at 1451 Rosser Avenue East. For details on events, services, and goods, go to greenspot- brandon.ca. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram. ■
Crocus Great Plains Christmas concert. “Tuba and baritone horn players are wel- come to come rehearse in the morning and in the afternoon the concert fills the room with quite a lovely sound,” he says. “And the entire Crocus Plains music de- partment joins us with their bands, choirs and ensembles for a concert that everyone can enjoy.” The Last Chance Christmas Market takes place on Saturday, Dec. 19 featuring locally crafted stocking-stuffers by about 40 ven- dors. The shopping list is long from winter coats to dog food. “The selection’s always better at the begin- ning especially with the Christmas baking - that goes really fast,” says Whetter. “It’s all made right here in Southwest Manitoba.” Proceeds from table fees go to a chosen charity which also receives a place for an in- formation booth at the market. Beyond the Christmas season, the Green Spot offers year-round goods and services, including snow clearance, summer mowing and maintenance, and fall clean-up. “We recommend you call Chris Huber in our landscape department early on, espe- cially for snow clearing because we do get to capacity,” says Whetter. Retail offerings include the gift shop, fash- ion for women and men, tropical plants and houseplants. Right now, the gift shop
We’re so
happy that we can offer our services to the local community and that we can feature lots of local products.”
— BERNIE WHETTER, OWNER, THE GREEN SPOT HOME & GARDEN
» wendyjbking@gmail.com
OCTOBER 24, 2026 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN
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Come Home to Christmas AT THE GREEN SPOT HOME & GARDEN
Our Christmas Market - Bursting with treasures
• Tropical Plants and Pots • Fashion for Women and Men • Self-Care Products
• Home Décor and Giftware • Pet food and Accessories • Patio Furniture, Statuary, Fire and Water features • Manitoba Foods Market • Seasonal Poinsettias, Fresh Christmas Trees, and Greens
Event Hosts:
HOLIDAY SEASON 2026 – MARK YOUR CALENDAR
CHRISTMAS UNWRAPPED OFFICIAL OPENING - THE GREEN SPOT CHRISTMAS MARKET SATURDAY NOVEMBER 7
WINE AROUND THE WORLD WITH DE NARDI WINE BOUTIQUE SATURDAY NOVEMBER 14
SANTA CLAUSE PARADE WITH THE GREEN SPOT CHRISTMAS FLOAT
PHOTOS WITH SANTA IN SANTA’S VILLAGE WITH PHOTOGRAPHER CYNTHIA KORMAN EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY NOVEMBER 28 TO DECEMBER 20
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 21
TUBA CHRISTMAS WITH DR. NORA WILSON AND FRIENDS
CROCUS PLAINS CHRISTMAS CONCERT WITH CROCUS PLAINS MUSIC DEPARTMENT SATURDAY DECEMBER 12
LAST CHANCE CHRISTMAS MARKET WITH LOCAL MAKERS
Enjoy our Secret Garden Café SOUP, SANDWICHES, TREATS WITH A LOCAL STORY
SATURDAY DECEMBER 19
SATURDAY DECEMBER 5
1451 Rosser Avenue East in Brandon Call: 204-727-5884
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greenspotbrandon.com Growing with WestMan since 1978
THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 24, 2026
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THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 24, 2026
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OCTOBER 24, 2026 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN 17 Sunrise Credit Union promotes 3.90% term deposit special S unrise Credit Union is offering a 3.90 per cent
interest rate on a 26-month term deposit as Westman savers continue to look for ways to grow their money while protecting themselves from changing interest rates. Josie Dreilich of Sunrise Credit Union’s Brandon branch said interest in term depos- its across the Westman region has remained steady, with members at different stages of life using the investment option for a variety of financial goals. “At the Brandon Branch of Sunrise Credit Union, we see a wide variety of members in our branch, in many different stages of their life who are interested in investing for nu- merous different reasons,” Dreilich said. Those goals can range from building initial savings and preparing for a vehicle or new home to planning for children’s futures, retirement or enjoying savings during retirement. Dreilich said the current special stands out in part because of its 26-month timeline and competitive 3.90 per cent rate within the credit union’s service area. The term deposit also offers members the choice of having interest paid out on the an- nual renewal date or having it compounded into the term to increase interest growth. The investment is available through both regis- tered and non-registered options. “We have members and non-members al- ways looking to make the best choice when it comes to their money, and I believe this product checks many points off for mem- bers,” she said. The special is designed to be accessible to savers at different financial stages. The min- imum deposit is $500 for members aged six to 25 and $1,000 for everyone else, allowing younger savers and those just beginning to build their investments to get started with a smaller amount.
Confidence in knowing how much their money can grow in the next 26 months.” — JOSIE DREILICH, SUNRISE CREDIT UNION, BRANDON BRANCH
The product can also appeal to people looking to put larger amounts toward medi- um- and long-term financial goals. “You can start small if that is the life stage you are at or you can invest larger amounts to help save for your five- to 10-year plans,” she said. One of the key advantages of locking in a rate, she added, is the certainty it provides during the 26-month period. “By locking into this product, it provides members the confidence in knowing how much their money can grow in the next 26 months, regardless of what is happening around them,” Dreilich said. That predictability can make it easier for savers to plan, particularly when interest rates can change over time. However, customers should consider their individual financial circumstances be- fore committing to a 26-month term. The product may be suitable for someone who does not expect to need access to the funds during that period, Dreilich said, while those who may require the money sooner should discuss their options with a Sunrise Credit Union representative. “We would like to have a discussion with them and find a way forward that would be the most beneficial for their specific situa- tion,” she said.
Josie Dreilich of Sunrise Credit Union’s Brandon branch. (Supplied)
For people considering a registered invest- ment, Dreilich also recommends reviewing available TFSA or RRSP contribution room before purchasing to ensure there is suffi- cient room and avoid potential penalties in the future. For first-time investors, getting started can be as simple as contacting the Brandon branch and speaking with a Member Service Representative. Non-members can also book an appointment to discuss their options and potentially open a membership. “We are always willing to answer the phone to provide information that helps you
make the best choice for their future,” Dreil- ich said. For Sunrise Credit Union, the goal is not simply to promote a particular investment product, but to help members find savings and investment options that fit their individ- ual financial goals. The current 3.90 per cent 26-month term deposit special provides one such option for Westman residents looking for a com- petitive rate and greater certainty over a de- fined period. ■ » The Brandon Sun
THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 24, 2026
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Members of the fire crew pose in front of their emergency vehicle outside of the Koch Fertilizer plant in Brandon. (Supplied)
Ready When it Matters: Koch Fertilizer’s Safety Response Teams A t Koch Fertilizer in Brandon, the safety and “Prior to joining Koch I had some emer- gency response experience,” Berry said. “As soon as I had solid footing in my new role I knew I wanted to be part of that team.”
also train and share knowledge with local community first responders. This summer, the ERT led training for a simulated am- monia release with fire departments from nearby rural communities Elie and St. Fran- cis Xavier. Following additional training, Berry was appointed the plant’s deputy fire chief in May 2026. In this role, he’s active in the de- velopment of the Fire Brigade and works closely with other members to develop train- ing plans. Through his participation and leader- ship on the ERT and Fire Brigade, Berry said he is proud of the strong safety culture at Koch Fertilizer. “I feel fortunate to be at Koch and to help contribute to the response capabilities we’ve built,” Berry said. “As deputy chief, one of things I enjoy most is helping our members grow, gain confidence and develop the skills needed to respond safely and effectively.” “The commitment we have to keep our employees and the community safe is some- thing we all take very seriously every day,” Berry continued. From seasonal employee to deputy fire chief, Ryan Berry’s journey at Koch Fertiliz- er reflects a willingness to embrace new op- portunities and use them to serve others, all with the goal of being ready to respond when it matters most. ■
well-being of employees and the community is the plant’s number one priority, and two capabilities are central to that commitment: the Emergency Response Team and Fire Brigade. They aren’t widely known about in the community, but the ERT and Fire Brigade have been part of the safety efforts at Koch Fertilizer for decades. Neither team is called into action very often, but they’re highly trained and ready to respond when the un- expected happens. Ryan Berry, production shift supervisor at Koch Fertilizer, is a member of both the ERT and Fire Brigade. He joined the plant in 2019 as a seasonal employee to help load trucks and later earned a permanent role on the loading and transportation team before becoming transportation shift supervisor in 2021. It was during his time in this role that Ber- ry said he developed an interest in the ERT and put his name forward to join the team.
According to Berry, the ERT consists of 10-12 employees at a given time, and its pur- pose is to respond to off-site events involving an ammonia release by truck or rail. Berry also said Koch Fertilizer’s ERT is part of a broader mutual aid group that includes three other member companies. “All the members of the mutual aid group are fertilizer manufacturers,” Berry said. “We work together to cover all of Canada for emergency response needs involving am- monia releases.” In 2024, after three years as a member of the ERT, Berry moved into his current role as production shift supervisor and joined the Fire Brigade as a crew captain that same year. Berry said the Fire Brigade is a larger group than the ERT, made up of approximately 60 employees who are mostly plant operators. “We have four different crews, each with its own captain,” Berry said. “The crews are trained to respond specifically to on-site events including fires and am- monia releases.” As Berry outlined, it is essential for the teams to train on a regular basis to maintain these important response capabilities. Each Fire Brigade crew trains once a month for four hours ranging from basic
drills to more advanced exercises in full gear. At least once a year, the crews train at the Manitoba Emergency Services Col- lege, a facility in Brandon where firefight- ers are trained. Like the Fire Brigade, the ERT trains reg- ularly, including annual meetings with its mutual aid partners for joint exercises. They The commitment we have to keep our employees and the community safe is something we all take very seriously every day.” — RYAN BERRY, DEPUTY FIRE CHIEF, KOCH FERTILIZER
OCTOBER 24, 2026 • WESTMAN BUSINESS • THE BRANDON SUN
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AT KOCH FERTILIZER CANADA, WE’RE PROUD TO INVEST IN LOCAL EDUCATION THROUGH SCHOLARSHIPS AND PROGRAM SUPPORT: • Assiniboine College • Saskatchewan Polytechnic • Crocus Plains High School Because when Brandon thrives, we all thrive. EMPOWERING GOOD IN OUR Community.
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THE BRANDON SUN • WESTMAN BUSINESS • OCTOBER 24, 2026
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It’s time to lock in
26 Month Term Deposit Special 3.90% Limited time offer. Conditions apply. Ask us for more information.
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