-A Blizzard is on its way, thanks to an Alberta Clipper. Environment Canada has issued 2 WEATHER ALERTS for the City of Brandon and Westman. Blizzard conditions with strong winds and visibility near zero in snow and blowing snow today. And freezing rain together, could make travel treacherous. 20cm of snow is on the way with gusty winds at 90 km/h, this afternoon.
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-Manitoba Hydro Rates are going up. The Crown Corporation is proposing an 11 per cent hike over three years. The reason? Drought, old infrastructure, and future energy demands. If approved; this rate hike will be implemented in January.
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-Helping Hands Soup Kitchen is asking Brandon City Council for more money. $15 thousand dollars as a one-time sum; an annual grant increase from $30-$50 thousand dollars, AND $7,500 property tax exemptions. Why? The rising price of food and maintenance costs, more demand, and fewer donations. The City budget is being debated January 30th and 31st.
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-Manitoba wildfire crews are exhausted after the provinces worst fire season in decades. This, from a union report released Tuesday. 2 million hectares was lost this year, while staffing shortages and low wages stretched firefighters thin. The union wants better pay and training to retain staff; The government says it’s being considered.
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-Canadians still trust vaccines, but vaccine confidence has declined that includes Covid-19 and flu shots, in the last five years. This, from a Leger Healthcare poll released today. Safety concerns, social media mis-information, and mistrust in institutions are just some of the reasons why.
-The salvation army’s kettle campaign in Brandon needs our help. With 7 days to go, they’re short of reaching their campaign goal of
$110,000. How can you help? you can give a few hours of your time by volunteering at a kettle, or making a donation. it will go a long way.
