-Manitoba Ag Days kicks off today, welcoming thousands of producers, manufacturers, processors and retailers from across Canada, and internationally. The 49th annual Manitoba Ag days, held at the Keystone Centre in Brandon, features the latest in agricultural technology, equipment and research, including the largest innovation showcase in Ag Days history. The 3 day event looks to strengthen Manitoba as a leader in agricultural excellence, with the Government continuing to support the agriculture sector, through research, innovation, and sustainable practices.
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-The Brandon-Westman Christmas Cheer Registry is giving away 80 percent of the money it got from US liquor sales during the Christmas season. The charity says it’s keeping $100 thousand dollars, and splitting up $500 thousand dollars between more than 8 different local organizations. Announced Monday, the money will go towards supporting food security for seniors, youth, and year-round community programs.
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-The Health Sciences Centre is launching a new $3.2 million dollar machine in Winnipeg, to help treat large tumors with minimally invasive neurosurgery. The Elekta Esprit gamma knife, blasts targeted gamma radiation at brain tumors with no incision needed. This allows doctors to provide the best possible treatment, to more patients, efficiently and effectively. The announcement was made Monday, with the machine being added over a year ago, having already treated 230 patients.
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-The Port of Churchill is Canada’s “only hope” to maintain sovereignty and access to the Arctic, should the US accuire Greenland. This, from Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew in Winnipeg, Monday. Kinew argues Churchills deepwater port and rail link are essential for Arctic sovereignty, military and civilian supply chains, and reducing Canada’s reliance on the United States.
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-Premier Wab Kinew is launching a $1 million dollar security enhancement fund to help organizations against hate crimes, intimidation, and vandalism. Kinew says “Hate has no place in Manitoba”, as the fund helps to strengthen safety measures, improve preparedness, and install security infrastructure. The announcement was made Monday, with applications and eligibility being released in the coming weeks.
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-Doctors and dietitians in Canada are urging governments to get rid of processed meats from school and hospital menus, due to links to cancer and chronic disease. This, in an open letter from over 150 health-care professionals to provincial and education ministers, Monday. Health advocates say removing processed meats ensures schools and hospitals model healthy eating guidelines, with Manitoba last updating its school nutrition guidelines in 2014.
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-Canada’s annual inflation rate rose 2.4 per cent in December, up from 2.2 percent in November. Stats Canada says December 2024’s temporary tax cut only lasted 2 months. While higher grocery and prices excluding energy drove up inflation, lower gas prices partially offset the increase.
