Brandon, MB – Brandon Riverbank recently embarked on a project to install 40 flood-proof solar LED lights to the existing light stands, which have been dark and not usable since the flood of 2011. An announcement took place on the evening of Thursday, Nov. 14 to celebrate the near completion of the project and it included contributors as well as members of the media and Brandon Riverbank board members and staff. Contributors to the project include the Province of Manitoba, Brandon Area Community Foundation, Guild Insurance Brokers and the Thomas Sill Foundation. “We are thrilled with the work that’s been done to light our pathways once again,” said James Montgomery, GM of Brandon Riverbank Inc. “The solar LED project would not have been possible without the contributions of these partners.” Rochelle Squires, municipal relations minister for Manitoba, says the province is committed to investing in projects that benefit communities across Manitoba. “We are pleased to support the Brandon Riverbank solar LED pathway lighting project, which will not only improve safety but encourage use of the pathways and enhance the overall experience for users,” she added. Cliff Cullen, justice minister for Manitoba and MLA for Spruce Woods, says the new solar pathway project allows for the community to enjoy the Brandon Riverbank and the Assiniboine River Corridor after sunset. “It also provides a sense of security with well-lit surroundings,” Cullen added. Meanwhile, for Terri Roulette McCartney, board chair of the Brandon Area Community Foundation, supporting this project was a natural fit. “Through our endowment fund, our mission is to strengthen and improve the quality of life for those in southwestern Manitoba,” she said. “Not only does the Riverbank’s lighting project meet our granting criteria, it will add significant value overall to this regional destination hub today and into the future.” Brett McGregor of Guild Insurance Brokers says he couldn’t be more thrilled to see this Riverbank Discovery Centre project come to life. “We’re proud to be a contributing sponsor of the solar pathway lighting project,” he added. “The light system will enhance the usability of the trails and make them safer to use in the evening so our community can get out and enjoy the view." “We know that the lighting will help with safety issues and enhance the area around the Riverbank Discovery Centre and nearby trails,” said Gord Meger, director of finance for the Thomas Sill Foundation Inc. “We hope that the solar lighting will expand the use of the area for community events well into the future.” Brandon Riverbank Inc. would also like to thank Faraday Lighting for their assistance with this project and Jamieson & Judd Electrical for their tireless work of installing the pathway lighting project. The community is invited to come out and enjoy all that Brandon Riverbank and the Assiniboine River Corridor have to offer. We know that the lighting system will benefit many people who use the trails after the sun goes down and will make the trails safer and more enjoyable. (submitted)

Source: Brandon Police Service Media Release Police received a report of an assault on a Correctional Officer at Brandon Correctional Centre, which occurred at approximately 8:20 pm, on November 10, 2019, by a 21-year-old inmate. Following the assault, the inmate then proceeded to cause extensive damage within the subunit where he was held, including throwing furniture, and food around. The officer received extensive injuries and was transported to BRHC via ambulance. When police arrived, the situation was contained by BCC employees. Following an investigation into the actions of the inmate, the 21-year-old male was arrested on November 13, 2019. He will appear in court today on a charge of Aggravated Assault of Peace Officer, and Mischief to Property Over $5000. The Officer is no longer in the hospital and is recovering.

Source: Brandon Police Service Media Release Update: James LEPINE has been located, arrested, and lodged at Brandon Correctional Centre. He will appear in court today on a charge of Arson Disregard for Human Life. On November 11, 2019 shortly before 6:00 am, police and members from BFES responded to a structure fire at a residence in the 700 block of 13th street. Multiple individuals and pets evacuated safely from the building. There were no injuries reported as a result of this fire. We do not have an estimation as to the extent of the damage to the residence, except to say that it remains uninhabitable at this time.  A warrant was issued for the arrest of James LEPINE.

Capture your holiday memories and receive a festive photo taken with Santa at Crow's General Store. Get your photo taken with Santa with you or your whole family. The event will take place on Monday, December 2, 2019 (6-8pm) and appointments are required. Sessions will be booked in 10 minute blocks and spots will be limited. The cost per session is $30 and includes a 10 min appointment, 2 digital photos, and hot chocolate for the whole family. For additional information on Crows General Store, click here. For more information, or to book a photo session with Santa, click here.

Source: Brandon Police Service Media Release At about 8:25 PM Friday evening, a vehicle stop was conducted in the 700 block Rosser Avenue. During the stop, a can of pepper spray was located in the area occupied by a 26 year-old male.  Also located within the vehicle were several ounces of cocaine and paraphernalia consistent with trafficking. As a result of the investigation, a 39 year-old female from Brandon was released on appropriate police imposed conditions, and is to appear in court on January 9th facing one charge of possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. The male was held in custody and will appear today on charges of possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, possession of a weapon, and failing to comply with recognizance order, as he is currently bound by an order not to have any contact or communication with the female involved.