The Manitoba government has released a planning framework for the resumption of in-class learning, with teachers and staff returning to classrooms on Sept. 2 and students on Sept. 8, Education Minister Kelvin Goertzen announced today. “We are planning to have all students, from kindergarten to Grade 12, back in classrooms in September. While we can’t be sure what the COVID-19 pandemic will look like in the fall, detailed planning is needed to ensure schools can resume in-class learning and to prepare for different scenarios,” said Goertzen. “This framework will allow schools and school divisions to prepare plans that are flexible at the local level, yet consistent with those at other sites across the province.” The framework provides guidance for school divisions to develop detailed reopening plans to be submitted to Manitoba Education for three public health scenarios including: • in-class learning with near-normal conditions; • in-class learning, taking additional public health measures into consideration; and • remote learning from home, with limited use of school facilities. The minister noted that while the plan is for all students to return to classroom learning in the fall, Manitoba Education will provide final confirmation by Aug. 1 based on public health directions. Significant consultation with students, parents, teachers and education stakeholders occurred over the past month to gauge their comfort, with tens of thousands of Manitobans providing feedback. Divisions will ensure all schools have plans that are accessible to parents and students. Funded independent schools will also be asked to submit plans and post them publicly. “Public health officials expect the COVID-19 virus to be around for some time and that’s why schools need to develop plans for the fall,” said Dr. Brent Roussin, Manitoba’s chief provincial public health officer. “In addition to these plans, it will continue to be important for people to stay home if they are sick, ensure physical distancing, continue to practise good hand hygiene and cover coughs.” The framework also outlines key considerations that should be addressed in the school and division plans including: • ensuring schools can respond and adapt to changing public health orders and guidance; • making sure any necessary physical distancing requirements can be met; • considering the use of cohorts in classrooms, on buses and during activities to limit exposure to COVID-19; • planning with a focus on in-class learning and establishing priorities; • looking at ways to accommodate specialty programming and extracurricular activities; • considering how school transportation can be safely offered; • looking at blended learning options that can be implemented quickly; • making arrangements for students, teachers and staff who may be at higher risk of COVID-19; and • considering learning and assessment needs, as well as any educational gaps for students as a result of the pandemic. “Students, parents, teachers, staff and administrators have had to make many adjustments in a very short period of time, and I thank everyone who has worked hard to find solutions to keep everyone safe during the pandemic,” said Goertzen. “By taking the time to develop thorough plans, we can continue to protect the health and well-being of our school communities while ensuring that students have the opportunity to learn and develop their skills.” The report can be viewed at www.manitoba.ca/covid19/restoring/safeschools.html and feedback can be provided at https://engagemb.ca. For up-to-date information on COVID-19 in Manitoba, visit www.manitoba.ca/COVID19. A comprehensive list of Manitoba government COVID-19 measures can be found at: https://manitoba.ca/bg/2020/04/covid19.html. (Province of MB News Release)

Source: Brandon Police Service Media Release On June 24, 2020, police responded to the report of a stabbing. The victim was located walking in the area of the 3200 block of Pacific Ave. He was transported by BFES ambulance to be treated for his non-life threatening injuries. Investigation led police to learn the identity of the two suspects who were later located and arrested. A 26-year-ol male, and a 16-year-old male youth will appear in court on October 22, 2020 on charges of Assault with a Weapon.

Inspired by a community campaign in Winnipeg, Ryan and Jenn Shields have created a Love Local Brandon line of t-shirts, hoodies and hats.  The logo features three iconic buildings in Brandon: the East End water tower, the MacKenzie Seeds Building and the Keystone Centre.  When Ryan and Jenn reached out to the owners of Brandon Source for Sports to run the idea by them, they were instantly onboard to help create the logo and get the apparel line set up. 100% of the proceeds from the apparel line are going directly to the Samaritan House in Brandon.  What is the motivation for Love Local Brandon? “We love our city, it has been so good to our family that we wanted to give back during a time when people may need an extra hand up” says Ryan.  The apparel can be pre-ordered through their online store located at https://www.openheartswellness.ca/love-local and will only be available for a limited time.  Orders will close July 30, 2020.

After two extremely successful years as Executive Director, Lois MacDonald will be leaving the organization to accept a position in the private sector. Westman Immigrant Services has experienced significant growth and development under MacDonald’s leadership. The organization secured a five-year contract with federal funder, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada which has put operations on firm ground for several years to come. As part of this process, the organization assumed responsibility for settlement services beyond Brandon and across the Westman region – a major step forward. In addition, new funding opportunities with the provincial government have recently come to fruition, and a number of programs and initiatives have been enhanced with the support of new, external funders. The building lease at 1001 Pacific was re-negotiated, and recently the construction of an accessibile front entryway was completed. With MacDonald at the helm, the organization’s profile in the community has grown as the numbers and range of clients served has also increased, through the dedicated and passionate efforts of our employees and our many volunteers. The search for a new Executive Director is underway, as MacDonald’s time with the organization will draw to a close in the coming days. Board Chair, Dr. Steve Robinson, states “Westman Immigrant Services has much to be proud of and owes a great debt of gratitude to Lois for helping us to get there. As we turn this page to new leadership, we can look to a very bright future with ever-more-significant outcomes for this community, this province, and this country. I would like to extend deepest thanks to Lois, for her leadership, and myself and the Board of Directors wish her the best of luck in her future endeavours!” MacDonald states “I thoroughly enjoyed my time with the organization and on a daily basis was amazed by the excellent staff and volunteers who worked diligently to provide exemplary service and support to our clients. The strength and resilience of those who come to Canada to build a new life for themselves and their families is awe-inspiring and I have been honoured to lead an organization who supports them in their journey in so many ways. I have learned so much in this organization, and was pleased to be part of the great work that is accomplished here every day”. Westman Immigrant Services provides settlement support, language classes and a variety of programs for newcomers to Canada. With over 45 staff, they support thousands of clients annually on their settlement journey. (submitted)

Source: Brandon Police Service Medias Release On May 30th, a male used a stolen credit card at four separate locations in the city. Police, through video surveillance footage at all four locations, identified him. The 29-year-old Brandon male was located Sunday afternoon and arrested. He was charged with four counts of fraud under $5000.00 and was released from custody. He will appear in court in October.