NewsNow
Bradley Davidson has served as a firefighter since 1981.
He currently serves as the Regional Director for the Canadian Association of Fire Investigators and Manitoba Crime Stoppers. He's the provincial director for the Canadian Volunteer Fire Services Association. His first post was with the Flin Flon Fire Department.
Last year, he spent three weeks fighting fires in the northern part of the province when 300 homes were lost in Denare Beach.
"Being in the fire service is about giving your time, and being of service to others," said Davidson. "The service has been good to me. I think I owe it to the younger generation to give back to them."
He also volunteers for Swan Valley Citizens on Patrol. Davidson says being a firefighter is rewarding and he encourages anyone interested to check it out. In the Parkland, the Winnipegosis Fire Department is actively recruiting firefighters.
With over 40 years of heavy industrial safety, emergency response, and fire investigation service, Davidson has founded the Canadian Firefighter Cancer Foundation. It's a national charitable organization dedicated to raising awareness of occupational cancers among firefighters. It will support firefighters, their families, and advance education and prevention initiatives. It will also advocate for improved firefighter health across the country.
The foundation was created in response to the growing impact of cancer within the Canadian fire service and the urgent need for a dedicated national organization focused on support, awareness, and action.
He also lost four friends to cancer. They were all firefighters. Firefighters often encounter hazardous environments that expose them to known and suspected carcinogens.
"Most recently, there was a firefighter in Flin Flon who was a pillar of the department and community," said Davidson. "I didn't even know he was sick. He had 47 years of service. I was grieving over his loss. I was his roommate for nearly 10 years when I was in Flin Flon."
The foundation's mission is to support firefighters and their families affected by cancer after diagnosis, and beyond and to promote cancer prevention and awareness initiatives. It will also fund and support firefighter health programs, create national awareness campaigns focused on firefighter health and wellness, and build partnerships with fire services, researchers, healthcare professionals, and community organizations across Canada.
As a firefighter himself for 41 years, Bradley knows being a firefighter isn't for everyone. He thanks those who serve and protect, often putting their lives at risk to help and make a difference.
"It's a critical service that needs to be there. Firefighters put their lives on the line every day for us," said Davidson. "I think it's up to us to support them. Members of the service and public. Right now, firefighter cancer is the number one killer of firefighters. That needs to change."
As part of its national launch, the foundation invites fire departments, firefighter organizations, healthcare professionals, researchers, sponsors, and community members to join its mission of improving firefighter health and cancer awareness throughout Canada.
If you're interested in becoming a part of the foundation, you can contact Bradley at 204-271-2248.
- Details
- Contributed by Darnell Duff
After the United States slapped a 50% tariff on certain Canadian imports, the Canadian government fired back with scaling retaliatory tariffs, with 15%, 25%, and 50% on specific items. During the ongoing trade war, and with how it's affecting Manitoba's farmers and ag producers, the Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation announced a long list of supports.
Cam Dahl, General Manager of Manitoba Pork, said the company is in support of those reliefs, saying it'll help give Manitoba's agriculture more independence, and will greatly promote agricultural investment in the province.
"We're very pleased with the response, some of these measures, such as enhancements to loan guarantees programs, enhancements to funding for ongoing operations, these are things that we've been working on together with the province for some time...if you look at building a new finishing barn, it's gonna cost about 15 million dollars. So this increase in the loan guarantee program will allow producers to access loan guarantees for about a third of that cost of building that facility, or building that infrastructure," said Dahl.
Two of the most notable changes that Dahl and Manitoba Pork support are an increase to the loan amount under the Diversification Loan Guarantee Program, up to $5 million from $1.5 million, and increasing the guaranteed portion of loans from both that program and the Operating Credit Guarantee Program to 33.33%, up from 25%. Dahl said those measures will help give Manitoba's farmers a bit more certainty.
Though he said the changes are very welcome, Dahl still wants Manitoba Pork's great trading relationships with American states and companies to continue. The Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) has shown that trade diversification when it comes to agriculture can lead to a lot of benefits, not just when it comes to prices.
"One of the biggest impacts that we're seeing from the uncertainty with our largest trading partner, the United States, is the reluctance, or inability to invest in the future growth of the industry, and that just comes from not knowing what your market is gonna look like, six months or a year from now...agriculture in general, in the United States, and Mexico and Canada, really does recognize the benefits that have come because of trade liberalization, and the integration of our agriculture and food markets," said Dahl.
Other announcements from the Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation include increasing the Operating Credit Guarantee Program to $3 million for individuals, corporations, and partnerships, and expanding eligibility for the Diversification Loan Guarantee Program to include oilseed and grain operations.
- Details
- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
Leon Kowalski is calling all car enthusiasts.
Napa Auto Parts is proud to sponsor and support a Car Show & Shine in Dauphin on Saturday. It'll take place from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Fairgrounds. Registration takes place from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m.
Whether your vehicle is from the 1920s or is a newer model, you can take part. If you have a vehicle worth showing off, the return of Dauphin's car show is perfect for you.
"There's quite a group of us in town here," said Kowalski. "We've counted. There's probably 15 or 20 guys that never seem to take them out of their garage. We're hoping they come out."
Leon expects vehicles coming from Yorkton, Brandon, and the surrounding areas.
There is no admission fee.
Kowalski is also hoping to make this an annual event. As of publication, the forecast calls for a mix of sun and cloud on Saturday with a high of 26.
"We're hoping for the weather and a good turnout," said Kowalski. "There will be a silent auction as well."
Food trucks and music will be on site. Dauphin's Car Show & Shine returns for one day only on Saturday from 11:00 to 3:00 at the Fairgrounds.
- Details
- Contributed by Darnell Duff
45 grams of powder cocaine was seized, and six people were arrested after a drug bust in Swan River.
Officers arrested the six at a property on the 300-block of 7th Avenue South in the community on Friday at 4:15 p.m. Officers also seized various drug paraphernalia, nearly $1,600 in cash, and three pellet guns.
Carla Slepicka of Swan River, Wayne Cook of the Sapotaweyak Cree Nation, Michael Makasoff of Swan River, Lawrence Severight of the Cote First Nation, Dustin McDuff of Swan River, and Kaylee Keefe of Kenville were all arrested.
They face a slew of charges, including drug trafficking and possession for the purpose of trafficking.
- Details
- Contributed by Darnell Duff
In the 2022 Municipal Election, only 44.6% of the eligible voters cast a ballot in Dauphin.
There were 6,079 eligible voters. Only 2,712 ballots were cast. In the Town of Neepawa, the turnout was far lower.
30.9% of the eligible voters cast a ballot in the 2022 Municipal Election in that community. That's on par with previous elections, says CAO Colleen Synchyshyn.
She says the goal is for at least 50% of eligible residents to vote. As the 2026 Municipal Election nears, Colleen hopes for a much better turnout this go-around.
She questions whether many people pay attention until it's an issue that impacts them directly.
"Voting is for people who actually want to have say or be involved in the process," said Synchyshyn. "People like to complain, but like to do it behind a desk or a computer screen. When it comes down to really wanting to know information, not many people come to the office. For some, it's easier to complain, and not be a part of the solution."
If you're wondering why it's important to vote, there are many reasons. Your municipal government makes many decisions that have a major impact on the citizens and working people in the community.
This includes decisions on water supply and treatment, garbage and recycling pickup, road and sidewalk maintenance, and community planning and development, to name a few.
Voting is one of the most important ways you can advocate for yourself and your community.
Even a single vote can make a difference. Simply put, your vote can make a difference. On Wednesday, the Town will host a council election information session.
It'll start at 7:00 p.m. at the Neepawa Municipal Boardroom. If you're interested in running for council or mayor, you're encouraged to attend. It's at 275 Hamilton Street.
Topics will include municipal powers, roles and responsibilities, the difference between governance and administration, and election information.
"Why would anyone run? That's a good question," added Synchyshyn. "You show interest in the community. You want to help out, be a part of the solution, and help things move along."
Colleen has been the Town's CAO for going on 13 years. That means she was a part of the election process in 2014, 2018, and 2022. During this time, she has been impressed by the work of the council and mayor.
She says everyone did their part.
"We wouldn't be where we are without the people that sat at the table to get us through the tough times," said Synchyshyn. "To help progress us along with all of the projects we're taking on."
Manitobans will go to the polls on Wednesday, October 28.
- Details
- Contributed by Darnell Duff
Emergency Department services will reopen in Dauphin on Monday, September 7.
The temporary emergency department will operate on the main floor of Dauphin Regional Health Centre, using temporary power, water and other infrastructure while restoration work continues in other areas of the hospital.
When it opens, the temporary emergency department will provide emergency services 24-7. A mobile CT unit will be up and running within several weeks.
Teams continue around-the-clock work to ensure every system - from ventilation and power to patient care spaces - is ready to support the community of Dauphin and surrounding areas safely.
"It's a huge amount of work to get the electrical, diagnostics, and treatment spaces so that if you show up, 'God forbid,' you have an emergency, and need that healthcare," said Premier Wab Kinew. "You show up, and you're going to get your vitals taken by a nurse, assessed by a physician, and they'll be able to do what is needed to take care of you."
Other health services will continue to be provided in nearby sites while restoration work progresses. Dialysis patients are currently receiving care in Brandon, Russell, Swan River and Ashern; chemotherapy is being provided in Brandon, and labour and delivery services are available in Neepawa and Brandon.
Transportation supports remain available for patients who need to travel for dialysis and chemotherapy. You can contact the Dauphin Handi-van if you require transportation.
The Community Health Services building attached to Dauphin Regional Health Centre will continue to provide outpatient community care, including IV therapy.
Walk-in diagnostic services temporarily being provided at the provincial building in Dauphin will also be moved back to the Dauphin Regional Health Centre.
"We know how important healthcare is. We know how hard the staff has been working at other facilities," said Kinew. "Nurses travelling. We're going to work on the needs for the nurses so they get the travel compensation. We will make sure the surgeons are busy so that we don't lose anyone through this process."
Roblin Update:
Prairie Mountain Health also said the Emergency Department at the Roblin Health Centre will be closed all of September. The closure is due to staff shortages, but PMH says this is subject to change.
If you require emergency department services in Roblin this month, call the Roblin Health Centre at 204-937-2142 to determine the nearest open ED. You can also call 911.
- Details
- Contributed by Darnell Duff
Looking to get out into nature before school starts back up? You're in luck, the Province announced that provincial park access for labour day weekend will be free.
From September 4th to 7th, provincial park vehicle permits will not be required, though nightly camping fees still apply. Keep in mind that entrance fees to national parks, like Riding Mountain, are still in effect.
There have been a few times in recent memory where the Province has made access to provincial parks free, and a few times where they've allowed free fishing for weekends. Mike Moyes, Manitoba's Environment and Climate Change Minister, said it's a good way to get Manitobans to enjoy our beautiful province.
"Whether you're camping, hiking, paddling, spending time at the beach or attending an interpretive program, we welcome everyone to make the most of the long weekend in Manitoba's provincial parks," said Moyes.
Several parks will also offer free guided hikes, campfire talks, and similar family-friends programs, and throughout the fall season. Manitoba Parks also wants to remind visitors to check in at campground offices upon arrival, practice good fire safety, and to keep pets on a leash.
- Details
- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
The Town of Swan River is giving residents another small but impactful support to help with recovery from recent severe flooding.
The Essential Appliance Assistance Program is designed to help eligible homeowners replace essential appliances that were damage or destroyed, including hot water tanks, furnaces, clothes washers and dryers, freezers and refrigerators, and electrical panels.
Homeowners can receive up to $500 per property under this program. Applicants must own and occupy the home as their primary resident to apply, and must have experienced flood damage during the flood event earlier this summer. Funding for the program is limited, and will be prioritized on criteria including low-income households, seniors, and families with dependent children.
For more details, click here for more details about the program, and to apply. Funding will be available until the program budget runs out.
- Details
- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
The Manitoba Government put out a news release last Friday announcing more than $100 million in tariff supports, to help Manitoban industry and workers amid the ongoing trade war with the United States.
Some of the supports include $50 million for the Manitoba Trade Resilience Loan Program, $13.7 million to establish a Tariff Workforce Stabilization and Youth Employment Program designed to give wage subsidy supports to affected employers, and $500,000 to the Export Support Program.
Also announced were a long list of supports coming from the Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation, including an increase in the Operating Credit Guarantee Program for individuals, corporations, and partnerships up to $3 million, increasing the guaranteed part of loans under both that program and the Diversification Loan Guarantee program to 33.33% from 25%, and expanding eligibility for the Diversification Guarantee Loan Program to include grain and oilseed operations.
Ron Kostyshyn, Manitoba's Agriculture Minister and Dauphin MLA, said he'll keep doing whatever he can to fight for Manitoba farmers and ag producers.
"We are trying to do as much as we can and work with our neighbours to the south, unfortunately there are unpredictable things coming from the south," said Kostyshyn.
One interesting observation Kostyshyn had was Manitoba's trade relationship with an unlikely partner: the Iowa Pork Council. Both parties openly and greatly support free trade, with Kostyshyn saying members of the Iowa Pork Council have told him Manitoba's pork is among the highest quality available on the market. The Iowa Pork Council regularly gets more than 2 million young pigs each year from Manitoba.
"It's not a matter of us taking advantage, of Manitoba taking advantage of the U.S. pork, it's a system where the Iowa Pork people believe that free trade should be happening, because it betters their business that they're in," said Kostyshyn.
In the news release, the Province also said they are continuing efforts and plans to strengthen inter-provincial trade. Manitoba was recently named one of the top provinces for working to reduce inter-provincial trade barriers, and will continue to do so.
- Details
- Contributed by Ian Gillingham
'Every Body, Every Day'.
The Manitoba government has introduced a pilot program for a new health and physical education curriculum.
"We want every child, every student in our province to be active," said Premier Wab Kinew. "And it includes an important change. From kindergarten right through grade 12, every single student in Manitoba will have to do gym class in-person, no doctor's notes."
The curriculum, being updated for the first time in 25 years, also includes new learning outcomes focused on the challenges students face, from mental-health impacts of social media and artificial intelligence to marketing of vapes and supplements, as well as risks associated with e-scooters.
Kinew has said the government will change gym so it works for everyone.
It's as much about the kid who thinks working out is no joke as the kid who cracks a joke to skip a turn. Kinew said if a student doesn't want to get changed for gym class, then let's not make them.
Let them take part as is. If you have a concern about an accommodation your child needs, Kinew looks forward to working with Manitobans while still finding a way for students to be active during the school day.
"If a young person has a mental health need, sensory needs, or uses a mobility device, these are all things we can plan around when we work together," said Kinew. "When we think about the future of our society, it has to be inclusive of an education that fosters health, well-being, and exercise among the next generation."
The new curriculum adds basic cooking skills to junior high and high school to ensure every student knows how to prepare healthy and affordable meals.
Kinew says this curriculum will make Manitoba a leader across the country.
"We are going to have the highest standard for making sure kids are active," added Kinew. "And it's going to be complemented with teaching about nutrition. Teaching about the dangers and harms of screen time. Having conversations about sleep. By students being exposed to this will ensure that future generations in Manitoba will be happy and healthy."
During the pilot, teachers and parents will have the opportunity to provide feedback as the curriculum is refined to meet the needs of students across the province.
- Details
- Contributed by Darnell Duff
The City of Dauphin is holding a public hearing for property enforcement bylaws on Monday night.
It will take place inside Council Chambers at 5:00 p.m. The City is proposing three updated property-related bylaws:
The property standards bylaw, the vacant and boarded buildings bylaw, and the derelict buildings bylaw.
Lisa Gaudet, deputy city manager, says these bylaws are meant to modernize and strengthen the city's approach to property standards.
"And provide clearer and more consistent tools for dealing with properties that become vacant, neglected, or seriously deteriorated," said Gaudet. "The bylaws have received first reading by council, but they have not yet been adopted."
The hearing provides residents the chance to learn about the proposed bylaws and provide comments to council.
The City is updating its property bylaws because well-maintained properties contribute to safe, healthy, and attractive neighbourhoods.
Significantly neglected properties, left unsecured, or allowed to deteriorate over long periods can create fire and safety risks, attract unauthorized entry, affect surrounding properties, and require significant municipal resources to monitor and address.
They have created a dedicated page on the City's website with more information about the three proposed bylaws.
"That provides answers to frequently asked questions and links to the complete bylaw document," said Gaudet. "We really encourage people who have questions or concerns to take a look at that information. Then attend the public hearing if you want to provide input."
The link to the document is here.
- Details
- Contributed by Darnell Duff
