WHEAT KINGS TO SUPPORT SCHOOL PATROLS

Brandon, Manitoba – The Western Hockey League’s Brandon Wheat Kings, in conjunction with Manitoba Public Insurance, Canexus, Pauls’ Hauling and CAA Manitoba, have announced plans to honour western Manitoba School Patrols before this Saturday’s game against the visiting Swift Current Broncos at Westman Place.

 Over five hundred school patrols from Brandon and surrounding area are expected to attend the game, compliments of the Wheat Kings, Brandon Police Service as well as the four participating sponsors.

In addition to school patrols from Brandon, a number of rural communities will be represented at the game as well. Among them – Oak Lake, Minnedosa, Boissevain, Carberry, Hamiota, Melita, Virden, Shoal Lake and Killarney.

In addition to this weekend’s game, the hockey club has announced a partnership with Manitoba Public Insurance and the Brandon Sun aimed at recognizing children who are part of their school’s “Safety Patrol Unit”. Once a month, patrol members from one Brandon school will enjoy lunch with members of the Wheat Kings, including Honorary School Patrol Captain Cale Jefferies, compliments of Subway Restaruants. The first luncheon will be held on Wednesday at JR Reid School in Brandon.

This program is designed to recognize those children who volunteer their time in rain, snow or shine to help keep the streets safe for other children. It is also designed in a manner to attract new patrollers through the recognition and benefits of being a part of their school’s Safety Patrol unit. Part of the program will also provide the Wheat Kings, Manitoba Public Insurance and the Brandon Police Service a forum to relate important safety messages to Brandon and area students.

The School Safety Patrol Program in Canada, as in over 20 other countries around the world, has become a successful and respected safety program. Its proven safety record is unequalled by any other program of its type.

Through this program, combined with both “Read to Succeed” and “Join the Team”, the Wheat Kings will again have a very strong presence and influence in local elementary schools.

While the CIBC Read to Succeed program kicked off the new school term earlier this month with visits to O’Kelly School (CFB Shilo) and Waverly Park School in Brandon, another year of Join the Team officially got underway last week with several visits to area schools. Aimed at middle school students, this program promotes a healthy, alcohol and drug free living and encourages youth to chase positive goals and develop their talents.

Tickets to both of Brandon‘s games this weekend are on sale now at the Keystone Centre box office, by calling 726-3555 or online at ticketmaster.ca

These will be Brandon’s final two home games this month, as the Wheat Kings will hit the road for their annual western road swing early next week.