News – Wednesday, May 20, 2026

🏫 Education

Adult‑learning funding — Westman adult‑learning centres share nearly $750,000 for 2026–27; Assiniboine College and Brandon Literacy Council receive the largest portions. Additional funding flows to the Brandon Friendship Centre, Samaritan House, and regional programs.
Early‑years support needs — Manitoba reports the sharpest rise in student‑support needs in early‑years classrooms. The full story explores what that means for EA staffing in Westman.
BSD new school design — BSD unveils virtual designs for a new $20‑million K–8 school in Brookwood South. Open house runs 6:30–8:30 p.m. at Vincent Massey Library; the school is set to open next fall.
Social‑media ban concerns — Manitoba’s proposed social‑media ban could block teachers from using YouTube, including YouTube Kids. Educators warn it would remove valuable classroom tools.

Innovation Growth Program — Manitoba urges small businesses to apply for provincial innovation funding before June 30. Westman entrepreneurs can secure support to turn new ideas into commercial products. Get more details here.

Intimate partner violence data — Manitoba has the second‑highest intimate partner violence rate in Canada at 607 per 100,000. Residents can now request a partner’s violence history under the new disclosure law.

Inflation numbers — Manitoba tied for the highest inflation rate in Canada last month at 4.3%. Food costs and property‑tax charges were the biggest drivers.

Unclaimed $46M Lotto 6/49 ticket — A winning $46‑million Gold Ball ticket was purchased just outside Winnipeg. The winner has one year to claim the prize.

Brandon council departures — Three Brandon councillors won’t seek re‑election: Glen Parker, Kris Desjarlais, and Barry Cullen. Parker retires after 10 years on council.

National Dog Rescue Day — Canadians adopt or rescue more than 100,000 dogs each year. Brandon Humane Society is at capacity and covers spay/neuter fees for rescued pets.
Volunteer Awards launch — Brandon Sunset Rotary launches the first‑ever Brandon & Westman Volunteer Awards on June 17. Nominations close June 3.
Daylight Savings? – The Manitoba government is asking residents whether the province should stop switching clocks twice a year and move away from daylight saving time. You can take the survey here.

Ebola outbreak update — Central Africa’s Ebola outbreak is larger and more dangerous than early reports suggested. Hundreds of suspected cases and 100+ deaths confirmed; global risk remains low.

Road restrictions lifted — More Westman roads cleared for full loading as spring conditions improve. Updated maps and provincial details are available online.

Ag outlook — Recent rain boosted soil moisture and kept early insect pressure low. Global canola stocks are projected to hit a three‑year low, supporting prices later this year.