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In the year 2003, Harley Davidson celebrated 100 years as a company, a young Cristiano Ronaldo made his Premier League debut for Manchester, the United States was preparing to invade Iraq, and in Canada, we were dealing with a small outbreak of SARS.

Also of significance that year here in Canada, was a case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), also known as Mad Cow Disease, discovered in Alberta. This led to countries like Japan, the USA, and a number of South American countries to immediately halt all imports of Canadian beef.

Another of those countries to follow suit was Taiwan.

Fast forward to last week, the small island nation announced that it had lifted a restriction on imports of Canadian beef and beef products from animals over 30 months of age - a restriction that had been in place since 2003. They previously lifted their ban on beef from animals under 30 months of age in 2016.

Back in Manitoba, Carson Callum of Manitoba Beef Producers recognizes the significance of this, especially since Japan lifted a number of import bans on Canadian beef earlier this year as well.

"From a global standpoint, it's good to see these different markets making these science-based decisions and removing those BSE-era restrictions ... it's important to have that diverse market access across the globe for our valuable product we produce", said Callum.

The combination of Taiwan and Japan dropping bans on imports of Canadian beef, with the fact that Canada was approved in 2021 as a nation with a "negligible" risk for BSE, means Canada's surveillance and policies surrounding BSE are working, according to Callum.

"We learned a lot since 2003, we saw the implications in the industry and needed to ensure that we're surveilling for it and making proper decisions to remove any sort of risk that may come to our export markets ... all the efforts that have been done in the country to make this negligible risk status happen is really important, and will continue to be important as we look at expanding and diversifying markets across the globe to better support Canadian beef."

While countries like Taiwan and Japan lifting import bans on Canadian beef can definitely be seen as a positive, there is still at least one major holdout. That being China, who banned imports of Canadian beef after an atypical case of BSE discovered in Canada in 2021. That ban still remains in place.

Countries like South Korea and The Phillippines also imposed similar bans in 2021 but they were lifted by January the following year.

Hear more from Carson Callum, the General Manager of Manitoba Beef Producers, during Agriview The Noon Hour Edition, today.

Details

Contributed by Alec Woolston

Published: Jun 20, 2023 - 9:37 am

Four federal byelections were conducted on Monday and the results probably did not shock anyone who has been following along.

One of the bigger questions around the byelections was whether People's Party of Canada (PPC) leader Maxime Bernier would get the Portage-Lisgar seat in Parliament, but this did not happen. Conservative candidate Branden Leslie won the riding with 65% of the vote and is now their representative.

In Winnipeg, Ben Carr, son of late former Liberal MP Jim Carr, won the Winnipeg South Centre riding with approximately 54% of the vote.

Outside of Manitoba, the Conservatives held on to the Ontario riding of Oxford, which is seen as a stronghold for the party; while the Liberals kept the Notre-Dame-de-Grâce-Westmount constituency in Quebec with Anna Gainey elected as their new MP.

Overall, there was no change in the total number of seats country-wide for the Conservatives or the Liberals.

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Contributed by Alec Woolston

Published: Jun 20, 2023 - 5:42 am

They didn't get the grant they were hoping for; however, that isn't stopping a group from Ste. Rose from moving ahead with their vision.

A committee has formed as the group is looking to build a brand new basketball court just south of the school in the community. The court will be NBA sized and its durability will allow it to be used for years and years.

The committee is still looking to raise funds for the project so they will be hosting a BBQ on Tuesday from 11 to 2. IGA in Ste. Rose has donated all of the food that will be for sale which includes burgers, hot dogs, chips and drinks. All of the funds raised will be going directly to the basketball court project.

While the wait will likely last quite a bit longer, Shelly Brunel says everyone is already talking about when they will play their first pickup game.

"The community is really excited, we have been getting so much positive feedback already," said Brunel. "Kids are asking questions, they really want to know when it's going to be built. They're excited to get out there and start using it."

The project has already received $30,000 in cash donations and through their Field of Dreams project, Brunel is hoping that will raise another $80,000. There have also been some gift-in-kind donations which equal roughly $20,000. Brunel says they believe they're about halfway to where they need to be.

"We are thankful for all of the generosity that we have received so far," offered Brunel. "The ag community has really gotten behind us and supported us and the local business community. It's all about us getting to the finish line here and we really appreciate the support."

Details

Contributed by Darnell Duff

Published: Jun 20, 2023 - 5:00 am

UPDATE: 12 p.m. (Monday, June 19)

Manitoba's Premier, Heather Stefanson, said they will continue to stand by Dauphin and the area.

"On behalf of all Manitobans, I am sending our deepest condolences to those who have lost loves ones and we continue to pray for those that are by their loved ones in the hospital," said Stefanson.

She also said that Manitoba will be covering expenses for travel and food for those travelling to be with their loved ones.

"I have instructed Manitoba Health to immediately make resources available for family members affected to be re-imbursed for any travel, hotel, and food costs," said Stefanson. "If you need to travel, we are here for you during this time."

As well, Shared Health CEO Lanette Siragusa gave an update on the 10 people who were taken to hospital after the crash. The 10 patients are still in hospital. 5 remain in critical condition while a 6th individual has been moved to a stepped-down unit. 6 of the 10 are women, 4 are men.

As well as the General Mental Health Crisis Support Line (1-888-379-7699), if anyone local is needing support, you can call Dauphin City Hall at 204-622-3200 and they can help direct you to the services you need.

No names of the deceased or those injured were released.

UPDATE: 5:25 a.m. (Monday, June 19)

Premier Heather Stefanson, and senior officials with the RCMP and Shared Health, will host a news conference today about last Thursday's devastating bus crash on the Trans-Canada Highway.

It will take place at the RCMP D Division headquarters in Winnipeg at noon. The Premier will be joined by Supt. Rob Lasson, the officer in charge of major crime services with Manitoba RCMP, and Lanette Siragusa, the CEO of Shared Health.

In a recent statement, Shared Health said that 6 of the 10 people injured in the crash are still in critical condition.

Part of that statement reads: "Prairie Mountain Health continues to have mental health teams providing support to the communities of Dauphin, Carberry, Brandon and Neepawa. Those impacted or affected by the tragedy are encouraged to contact the general mental health crisis support line at 1-888-379-7699."

Past updates to this story are below:

UPDATE: 11:40 a.m. (Saturday, June 17)

A Community Support Center will be operating today and Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm for families and those affected by this incident to find support.

The Center is located at the Dauphin Curling Rink, 200 1st St SE - Dauphin, MB.

As always, please respect the space of the people grieving in these hard times.

UPDATE: 4:45 p.m. (Friday, June 16)

 The RCMP's afternoon press conference at approximately 4:30 pm released a few details on the investigation into this situation.

The 10 people in the hospital have all been identified. The people on the bus ranged in age from 58 to 88 years of age. 19 of the occupants were female, and 6 were male.

Both vehicles have been seized, and a thorough investigation will go into them to look for mechanical errors and other information from internal devices.

Out of respect for the affected Families, no names have been published.

The investigation will continue to bring more information to light over the coming days and weeks. 

UPDATE: 12:20 p.m. (Friday, June 16)

At a press conference done by Shared Health, Lanette Siragusa confirmed that six of the 10 patients transferred to the hospital are in a critical care unit while four are being cared for in a surgical unit. Patients range in age from 60s to late 80s.

Beginning at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, a Community Support Centre will be located inside the Dauphin Curling Rink. On-site counselling services will be available to assist individuals and families. 

In addition to the support currently offered, a general mental health crisis support line has been opened at 1-888-379-7699 for those feeling the effects of this tragedy.

The RCMP will hold a press conference at 3:00 on Friday afternoon. 

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15 people have died and 10 are in the hospital after Thursday's crash.

A van carrying a group of individuals from Dauphin and the surrounding area collided with a semi-truck just outside of Carberry as the group was on their way to the casino for a day trip.

The bus had already crossed the westbound lanes of Highway 1 and was crossing the eastbound lanes when it was struck by the semi.

David Bosiak, Mayor of Dauphin, says the city is currently working on what's next.

"We're trying to determine what kind of things we have to set up in the city for people to come together to grieve," said Bosiak. "We're also talking to the Active Living Centre. We're in the process of getting everything organized today."

The RCMP will hold a press conference at 3:00 on Friday afternoon.

Details

Contributed by Alec Woolston

Published: Jun 19, 2023 - 5:29 am

Riding Mountain National Park is one of the most beautiful destinations in the province. Whether you're heading there for some ice cream, to head for a hike, or camping, there is something for everyone.

And while in the park, there is a good chance you will see wildlife. Bear sightings have been very frequent as of late which means cars are stopping on the side of the road to get a better look. While this is allowed, feeding the animals is not. If you are caught, you could face a $25,000 penalty as feeding wildlife is illegal at all Parks Canada parks.  

Tim Sallows, a resource management officer with Parks Canada says the bears have plenty of natural resources for food and they don't need human food

"Bears will get comfortable with vehicles if they're fed by humans," said Sallows. "So what they will do is run out to the road to meet vehicles and that has led to bears being hit in the past. Go ahead and look at the bears, but don't feed them."

It's also recommended that you always stay in your vehicle while taking pictures and if a bear is near, keep your hands inside the vehicle. With winding turns throughout the park, driving the speed limit is very important and park officials are always on the lookout for drivers going faster than the limit. 

By driving faster than the limit, a driver is minimizing the chance of stopping in time as bears, moose, elk, and deer frequent the trails, especially at night time.

"The speed limit is 80 kilometres-per-hour so it's important that everyone obeys that," offered Sallows. "You also need to pay attention because wildlife can jump out quickly."

If you're camping and you spot a bear on a trail or near your campsite, you should always act big. This has been proven to make a bear head the other way. But if they don't, you should back up slowly.

"Don't turn your back on the bear, that's important," ended Sallows. "Make as much noise as you can, don't sneak up on them because that will end badly."

You must also always have your dog on a leash, at all times. 

Details

Contributed by Darnell Duff

Published: Jun 19, 2023 - 5:00 am

It's a marquee event in the community every year and it's back.

The 26th Annual Little Valley Jamboree will take place this weekend at the Erickson Recreation Centre. Starting on Saturday and also happening on Sunday, the event includes many different activities for the family including a photo booth and live entertainment.

Back by popular demand this year is money mountain where kids will get the chance to fill up their pockets and face painting is always well-attended. 

Toni Ferguson is with the planning committee and she says this event is all about making people happy.

"It's about making families' lives a little bit brighter," said Ferguson. "There is no better feeling for us than seeing families smile and have fun, that's what it is all about. If we can make a difference in someone's life, that's what we're going to try and do."

An adult weekend pass is $25 while a day pass is $15 while those 17 and under are free. 

Details

Contributed by Darnell Duff

Published: Jun 17, 2023 - 6:00 am

UPDATE: 11:40 a.m. (Saturday June 17)

A Community Support Center will be operating today and Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm for families and those affected by this incident to find support.

The Center is located at the Dauphin Curling Rink, 200 1st St SE - Dauphin, MB.

As always, please respect the space of the people grieving in these hard times.

UPDATE: 4:45 p.m. (Friday, June 16)

 The RCMP's afternoon press conference at approximately 4:30 pm released a few details on the investigation into this situation.

The 10 people in the hospital have all been identified. The people on the bus ranged in age from 58 to 88 years of age. 19 of the occupants were female, and 6 were male.

Both vehicles have been seized, and a thorough investigation will go into them to look for mechanical errors and other information from internal devices.

Out of respect for the affected Families, no names have been published.

The investigation will continue to bring more information to light over the coming days and weeks. 

UPDATE: 12:20 p.m. (Friday, June 16)

At a press conference done by Shared Health, Lanette Siragusa confirmed that six of the 10 patients transferred to the hospital are in a critical care unit while four are being cared for in a surgical unit. Patients range in age from 60s to late 80s.

Beginning at 1:00 p.m. on Friday, a Community Support Centre will be located inside the Dauphin Curling Rink. On-site counselling services will be available to assist individuals and families. 

In addition to the support currently offered, a general mental health crisis support line has been opened at 1-888-379-7699 for those feeling the effects of this tragedy.

The RCMP will hold a press conference at 3:00 on Friday afternoon. 

=====

15 people have died and 10 are in the hospital after Thursday's crash.

A van carrying a group of individuals from Dauphin and the surrounding area collided with a semi-truck just outside of Carberry as the group was on their way to the casino for a day trip.

The bus had already crossed the westbound lanes of Highway 1 and was crossing the eastbound lanes when it was struck by the semi.

David Bosiak, Mayor of Dauphin, says the city is currently working on what's next.

"We're trying to determine what kind of things we have to set up in the city for people to come together to grieve," said Bosiak. "We're also talking to the Active Living Centre. We're in the process of getting everything organized today."

The RCMP will hold a press conference at 3:00 on Friday afternoon. 

Details

Contributed by Michael Brossart

Published: Jun 16, 2023 - 10:49 am

The Dauphin & District Community Foundation was founded in 1995.

Now 28 years later, the Foundation has reached a massive milestone of $ 5 million dollars. Darren Eddie was on hand earlier this week to fill up the Foundation's thermometer.

"It is a thrilling feeling to reach this milestone," said Eddie, co-chair. "It reflects the support of our community and the recognition of the importance that we do."

Since 1995, the Foundation has given out $ 2.2 million dollars in granted funds and they have given out $ 275 thousand to their community funds which include Ethelbert, Gilbert Plains, Ochre River, and Mossey River. 

Each year, the Foundation receives applications from the community and the number that they have received over the years continues to increase year by year. At this time, some applications are declined; however, Kit Daley is hoping that changes moving ahead.

"My dream would be that we have sufficient funds available for granting that we can assist every application that comes in," said Daley. "Our next goal is to get to $ 10 million dollars."

Kit and Darren want to thank the community for their overwhelming support over the years and they say they will always be here when the community needs them. 

Details

Contributed by Darnell Duff

Published: Jun 16, 2023 - 5:00 am

Since 1927, the Lundar Fair has been a staple in the community, and this year is no exception! 

Running Friday and Saturday this weekend, the 69th annual Lundar Fair has a lot packed into the two days.

Events that frequent the fair each year include a parade, a tractor pull, fireworks, petting zoos, cattle classes, horse shows, and more. 

This year, Lundar Ag Society President Tara Brandson tells us that there are some new features coming to this classic event!

"New this year, we're hosting select shows midway, and that will be Friday and Saturday."

The midway will bring a myriad of new rides, vendors, games, and more to this already busy weekend.

Admission to the Lundar Fair is $15 for adults for the weekend, $10 for people 17 and under, and free for those 12 and under with adult accompaniment.

For all the details, and a list of the events, visit Lundaragsociety.com

Details

Contributed by Michael Brossart

Published: Jun 15, 2023 - 12:00 pm

It's estimated that around one in six people aged 60 years and older have experienced some form of abuse over the past year.

"It's maddening and it's super sad that it's happening," said Shannon Genaille with Northwest Metis Council. "The numbers need to change and they need to change right now. Elders deserve respect."

Senior abuse is any action or inaction by a person in a position of trust that causes harm to an older adult. One form of abuse included in this is financial abuse. While elder abuse is not something that is talked about frequently, now is the time for change and that's why June 15 is known as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

Locally, the Northwest Metis Council will host hosting a drive-thru BBQ at the Metis Community Hall on 101 11 Ave SW in Dauphin beginning at 11:45. Everyone is welcome to take part by entering the hall parking lot off of 1st Street SW and then you will then exit onto Jackson Street. If you do take part, you are asked to stay in your vehicle and a bag will be brought to you, along with a burger and a bag of chips. 

Inside that bag will be a list of resources when it comes to staying safe and away from abuse.

"Elder abuse is not acceptable and it is very common," said Genaille. "The more we can get the awareness out there in hopes that people will step up and start taking care of our elders the better. In the end, they raised us and took care of us, so it's our turn to take care of them."

If you are or know of an elder that is being abused, the number for the Seniors Abuse Support Line is 1-888-896-7183. The line is 24 hours and you will be able to speak with a trained and caring counsellor. You can also visit World Elder Abuse Awareness. 

Details

Contributed by Darnell Duff

Published: Jun 15, 2023 - 5:00 am