Residents of Brandon are encouraged to join the national celebration of the National Flag of Canada Day this Saturday. Sat., Feb. 15, 2025 marks the 60th anniversary of the National Flag of Canada Day, commemorating six decades since our flag was first raised. The Maple Leaf is a symbol that unites us all, representing the values, diversity, and unity of Canada. “We honour our past and look forward to a strong future,” said Mayor Jeff Fawcett. “Brandon is not only strong, but also a community filled with goodness. Situated in the heart of Canada, we are proud to stand with our fellow Canadians to celebrate our great nation. From those of us fortunate enough to be born here, to our friends that have made this their chosen home, let’s continue to support our businesses and embrace one another across this great country. We are the true north, strong and free.”

 On February 11th at 11:37 pm Police were called to a residence in the 1500 block of Stickney Avenue reporting females banging on windows. Police located three intoxicated female ages 14,15 and 16. The 16-year-old female immediately became aggressive with officers and wanted to fight. While taking the female into custody she bit an officer on the hand and another on the arm. She then kicked a third officer in the leg. All three females were arrested and lodged at Brandon Police Service Detention Cells.  The 14- and 15-year-old will be released when sober to a guardian with a ticket for consuming liquor underage and the 16-year-old will have criminal charges of resist arrest and three counts of assaulting a police officer as well as consuming liquor underage. She will also be released to a guardian and set to appear in court on April 22nd, 2025.

The Manitoba government is supporting families in western Manitoba by providing a 50 per cent funding increase to Community Mobilization Westman (CMW), Justice Minister Matt Wiebe announced today. “This initiative tackles the root causes of crime by teaming vulnerable folks and families up with social service agencies, and community supports,” said Wiebe. “Our funding will help law enforcement partner with community organizations so supports can move quickly and target chronic issues that lead to crime.” The Manitoba government is providing an additional $40,000 to Community Mobilization Westman. Twice a week, this program brings together more than 20 professionals from 16 different organizations in a hub to co-ordinate services and supports for at-risk individuals or families. Participating agencies include the City of Brandon, the Brandon Police Service, the Brandon School Division, Manitoba Child and Family Services and Prairie Mountain Health. “To help keep Manitobans safe, we need an ‘all hands on deck’ approach,” said Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Glen Simard. “Our government supports initiatives that see law enforcement and community organizations working side by side. By getting tough on the causes of crime, we are improving public safety for all Manitobans.” In total, the Manitoba government provides $120,000 to Community Mobilization Westman, Simard noted. “As Mayor of Brandon, I am grateful for the Province of Manitoba’s increased support of Community Mobilization Westman,” said Mayor Jeff Fawcett, City of Brandon. “CMW is instrumental in fostering community engagement and addressing local issues. This increased funding will assist several of their initiatives including improving the safety and security of families in our community. On behalf of Brandon city council, I want to thank the province for investing in and supporting Community Mobilization Westman.” “We are grateful for the additional funding and support,” said Janis Irvine, co-ordinator, Community Mobilization Westman. “Collectively, we are a model of what collaboration can look like between organizations and agencies which can mitigate risk and prevent further harm. We bring our knowledge together to find better work practices and address the barriers that prevent community safety and well-being.” The additional funding for Community Mobilization Westman is being made through Manitoba’s Guns and Gangs Suppression Strategy, made possible by more than $4.6 million in funding from the Government of Canada through its Gun and Gang Violence Action Fund. For more information on crime prevention in Manitoba, visit: https://manitoba.ca/justice/commsafe/crimeprev/index.html.

The Brandon Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating this person who is “WANTED BY POLICE”: Jerret STEWART FOR Assault, Breach of Court Order & Fail to Attend Court X3 On March13th, 2024, police learned Jerret STEWART attended the complainants home address and proceeded to assault him despite being bound by conditions to not attend his address or contact him. Police located and arrested STEWART, however; he has failed to attend court. Jerret STAWART’s whereabouts are currently unknown, please contact Brandon crime stoppers with any information. CRIME OF THE WEEK for February 7th, 2025 The Brandon Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in solving a Break Enter & Theft. On February 6th, 2025, at approximately 1:00 AM, two thieves broke into a shed located in the 800 block of 26th Street. The thieves stole a snowblower, leaf blower and a jerry can. The culprits fled on foot but not before being caught on surveillance video. ************** 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.

Western Canada Hockey Academy Announces Launch of U15 Wolves Team Competing in the Premier Hockey League February 6, 2025 – The Western Canada Hockey Academy (WCHA) is proud to announce the launch of its U15 Wolves Team, the newest addition to the academy’s growing lineup. The Wolves will compete in the highly competitive Premier Hockey League (PHL), providing players across Brandon, Rural Manitoba, and Southeast Saskatchewan with an incredible opportunity to play at an elite level. This new team will offer young athletes the chance to develop their skills in a high-performance environment, surrounded by top-tier coaching, competition, and resources. The PHL is known for its focus on player development and commitment to excellence, making it the perfect platform for the Wolves to grow and showcase their talent. “We are excited to offer this opportunity to young hockey players across the region,” said Jason Roblin, VP of Operations at the WCHA. “This new U15 Wolves team will give players a chance to compete at one of the highest levels, advance their hockey careers, and represent the WCHA Wolves with pride.” Identification (ID) Skates for the U15 Wolves will take place in the last week of August, providing aspiring players the chance to showcase their skills and make the team. These skates will allow the coaching staff to evaluate talent and select players who are ready to take their game to the next level. For more information about the Premier Hockey League (PHL), visit https://phl.academy/. The U15 Wolves Team is set to make an impact in the league, and the WCHA is eager to watch the next generation of hockey talent shine. Get ready, Wolves fans – it’s going to be an exciting season ahead! About Western Canada Hockey Academy (WCHA): The WCHA is dedicated to providing young athletes with the highest level of hockey development through programs focused on skill-building, teamwork, and character. The WCHA serves players from diverse communities, offering them the resources they need to succeed both in hockey and beyond. In addition to the hockey Academy, the WCHA offers Development Programs and AAA Spring Wolves teams. The new U15 Wolves team will be an exciting addition to the academy’s growing lineup of offerings. Media Contact Jason Roblin VP of Operations jason@vhproperties.ca 204-726-1681