Rising ABOVE

The BrAndon Flood of 2011

Rising
ABOVE
The Flood of 2011 is still fresh in the minds
of Brandon and western Manitoba residents. As
time passes, details may fade, but few of us will
ever forget that spring when Brandon was featured
routinely on the national news as we dug in and
faced a very real threat.
The hardships and loss faced by the residents,
business owners and workers of the affected area
wont be soon forgotten, but perhaps there is solace in
the fact that an equally real victory was won.
This commemorative pictorial review of those
events will help keep both the details and the spirit
of accomplishment alive. Hopefully, it will rekindle
unique memories in each of us.
It is above all a story of people coming together with
energy and spirit for a common purpose.
Rising Above is funded by the Manitoba Government through the Excess Moisture Economic Stimulus Program.
The impact of the 2011 Flood on businesses in the evacuation area was great and they continue to need our support.
Andrews Field
Ashley Furniture HomeStore
Assiniboine Collision & Glass
Bayview Plumbing & Heating Ltd.
Best West Pet Foods
Brandon First
Brandon Radiator & Auto Service Ltd.
Butler Byers Hail Insurance Ltd.
CAA Manitoba
Chatters
Co-op Feeds
Dollarama
Drover Powersports
Ducks Unlimited Canada
EB Games
Edward Jones
Expert Auto
Future Shop
Fuzzy Bears Inc. Daycare
Giesbrecht & Company Cabinets
Giant Car Wash
The Green Spot Home & Garden
Guardian Wheat City Pharmacy
Heartland Livestock Services
Heritage Co-op Gas Bar & Car Wash
The Home Depot
Husky
Joes Auto Clinic Ltd.
Lady of the Lake
Liquor Mart
MANCAN Communications
Marks Work Wearhouse
McKenzie
Memories Chapel &
Pre-planning Centre
Merv Tweed, MP for Brandon-Souris
MGEU Manitoba Government and
General Employees Union
MGI Financial Inc.
Michaels
Midway Homes
Montanas Cookhouse
Moores Clothing for Men
Morningstar Metal
MTS Connect Coral Centre
North American Lumber
North End Community Centre
Northern Securities
NRG Signs
Old Dutch
Party Professionals & Rental Company
Patches Family Restaurant
Persnickety Furniture Refnishers
Pet Valu
Planet KIA
Prairie Scale
Precision Toyota
RANA Respiratory Care Group
Redwood Inn
Riverbank Discovery Centre
Safeway
SleepCountry
Sobeys Inc. Cash & Carry
Sokol Hall
St. Marys Ukrainian Catholic Church
Starbucks
Stokes Hearing & Audiology Services
Straight Up Salon With Extras
StreamnWood
Subway
TanFX
The Source
Trails West Inn
TransCanada Motorsport
Turtle Crossing Campground
Twisters Ice Cream Shoppe
Ukrainian Orthodox Church
of the Holy Ghost
Ukrainian Reading Association Hall
Ultracuts Professional Haircare Centers
Walmart
Warehouse One The Jean Store
Western Financial Group
Westoba Credit Union
Wheat City Medical Clinic and
Pharmacy
Winburn Orthodontics
Winners
Printed by Leech Printing Ltd.
Message from the Chamber
In the spring of 2011, the threat
of a devastating food faced
our community. Many
people were evacuated
from their homes and a
number of businesses were
forced to close their doors
due to a mandatory evacuation
notice. Although the city was able to
keep food waters at bay and avert physical
disaster of the food waters, the impact
to businesses in the evacuated area was
signifcant. One year later the effects of the
food and closures can still be felt.
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce is an
independent, membership funded, non-
proft organization that represents Brandon
business from the grassroots level. Part of
the Chambers mandate is to help foster and
develop business growth and the growth of
businesses in our community which is why
the Chamber is supportive of efforts to assist
the impacted businesses and community in
re-establishing relationships with clients and
customers in Westman.
The Rising Above initiative is designed to
educate, promote and provide opportunities
for the businesses directly impacted by the
high water event. Throughout this magazine
you will fnd advertisements featuring
the businesses and organizations that
experienced closures and evacuation during
the food. We encourage you to continue to
support these and other businesses in our
community.
The Brandon Chamber of Commerce
2
CONTENTS
Message from the Chamber 2
Message from the Mayor 3
The Flood of 2011 4
Flood Timeline 8
Getting Ready 9
Rising Water 12
High Water 22
One for the Record Books 39
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A Sea of Water.
The view from 1st Street on June 5, 2011, looking west shows the extent
of fooding within the city of Brandon and along Grand Valley Road.
Published May 2012.
Designed by Innovative Media Group.
Printed by Leech Printing Ltd.
Text by Ken Storie. Images provided by
Province of Manitoba, unless otherwise noted.
Other photography provided by the
Offce of the Prime Minister, Sandy Black,
David Leech, Andrew Mok, and Ken Storie.
Message from the Mayor
Rarely do we get the chance to be heroes; however,
the Flood of 2011 was just that opportunity for the
people of Brandon. Whether you operated one of
the many kinds of heavy machinery, helped as a
volunteer tossing sandbags in freezing rain, were
pouring coffee at the Red Cross Evacuation Centre,
were a senior petting cats or walking dogs, were
a housekeeper in one of the hotels full of worried
displaced Brandon residents, or a very tired Mayor;
the 2011 Flood was one of Brandons fnest hours.
We came together as a community, working under
extraordinary conditions to keep our city and its
residents safe. Initially, it was Provincial and City
workers on the front lineseither on the dike or
in the Emergency Ops Centre, doing what they had
been trained to do and doing it very well. Then, the
construction industry was asked to help, and they
were steadfast in their support of City and Provincial
crews, literally doing the heavy lifting. As the crisis
approached, we added in military, inmates from BCI,
volunteers, and every able-bodied person we could
fnd. Standing on the dike, looking down at rising
waters that were mere inches from the top was an
incredible motivator.
I hope that this experience will remain unique in our
communitys history, and I am confdent and proud
that, should we be tested again, Brandon will meet
that challenge with the same determination and
resilience with which we faced the 2011 Flood.
Thank you, Brandon.
Mayor Shari Decter Hirst
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Flood fghters work to
shore up a leak in the
dike behind homes on
Kasiurak Bay
on May 14, 2011.
Early Warning
For most of its length the
Assiniboine River gently twists
its way along a wide, gently
sloped valley. That valley,
especially near Brandon, is wide
and fat, and the spring foods
that are sure to occur from time
to time are generally short-lived
and not catastrophicmore
of an inconvenience than a
devastation.
All the same, weve learned to
watch out for them.
The fall of 2010 was notable for
sustained heavy rains throughout
the Assiniboine Basin, a huge
expanse of prairie that includes
the watershed of the QuAppelle
and Little Saskatchewan Rivers.
Extra moisture falling northeast
of Regina or west of Swan River
was destined to pass through
Brandon. In December, the
Shellmouth Dam north of Russell
had reached its capacity and
was releasing over 1,600 ft
3

(45.30 m
3
) of water per second,
all of it heading this way.
Preparation
Manitoba Water Stewardship
was watching carefully. Over
the winter several actions were
taken. Manitoba Emergency
Measures held an informational
conference and projected
that spring water levels would
approach or surpass levels
seen in 1976 and 1995. Past
food responses were reviewed.
New forecasts were made.
In Brandon a Flood Team
(Emergency Management,
Operational Services and
Engineering) was put in
place and preparations were
underway. Communication lines
between Brandons Mayor,
Shari Decter-Hirst, and the
various Provincial and Municipal
offcials were frmly established.
If the forecasts were right, the
city would face unprecedented
challenges: economic and
funding decisions had to be
made; engineering and materials
options had to be reviewed;
and manpower, logistics and
planning choices had to
be made.
We all watched the record
rainfall of the fall followed by
one snowstorm after another as
winter progressed.
4
THE FLOOD OF 2011
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continued on page 7
5
Life Lines Looking North Along First Street.
The Trans-Canada Highway runs to the north of Brandon, while most of
the city is across the Assiniboine River to the south. A narrow strip of high
ground, heavily fortifed with giant white super sandbags allowed traffc
to continue fowing along this vital artery. Pumps ran day and night to
prevent seepage from interfering with traffc, while constant inspections
and upgrading kept the dikes strong.
6
18th Street at the Bridge. Brandons other connection
to Highway #1 on 18th Street North is over the recently completed
David Thompson Bridge. It was given the ultimate test and came
through intact. The super sandbags were extended to three layers as
food forecasts (and foodwater) kept creeping higher.
7
Brandons Flood Team began by
learning everything they could
about past foods and the latest
in food fghting strategies. The
result was a comprehensive plan
involving the raising of existing
dikes and the creation of new
ones, with strategic sandbagging
to protect roadways, businesses
and houses.
Work began in late February,
and the giant white super
sandbags that became a
symbol of food defense made
their frst appearance along
18th Street on March 16.
As Brandon waited for the crest,
preparing for the possibility of
large-scale evacuations was
one of many tasks. By April 4,
engineering had provided a map
of a proposed evacuation area
and police went door-to door
to inform residents. Alternate
housing and emergency shelters
were arranged.
A Crest and Another Crest
With the breakup of the river in
April, the frst signs of fooding
appeared. The river reached a
level of 1,178.80 feet (359.3 m)
measured at First Street on
May 1, the highest level seen
since 1923. Despite the recent
31 mm rainfall the dikes remained
above the forecasted peak.
Between May and June 9 the
river fuctuated between three
crests, with the highest coming
on May 15 (1,182.89 feet or
360.54 m), a level that exceeded
all available records.
Evacuations
On May 9, the evacuation of an
area south of the river began
with door-to door notifcation.
Eventually 1,415 registered
evacuees from 585 families had
to relocate. The Corral Centre
and businesses along 18th Street
were evacuated as well, mainly
to reduce traffc fow along that
heavily-diked and strategically
important line of defense.
But just when the second crest
had been met and the river
had been kept under control,
the weather turned against us.
142 mm of rain fell in early June
and once again all eyes were
on the dikes. This time the water
stayed below peak level and
once again the dikes held.
It wasnt over; it would
be weeks before the river
retreated to below food stage,
but the crisis had been met. In
Western Manitoba the focus
shifted to nearby communities
battling the Souris River in
Wawanesa, Souris, Melita
and Hartney where the fght
was just beginning, but here in
Brandon we declared victory
and celebrated a job well done.
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continued from page 4
8
A FLOOD
TIMELINE
Fall 2010
Sustained heavy rains across the
drainage basin.
Assiniboine begins to rise just before
freeze up.
Shellmouth Dam reaching its capacity.
Dec. 3: Province issues a High Water
Advisory as a result of ice jams south of
the Shellmouth Dam.
Dec. 6: Shellmouth Dam releasing
1,600 ft
3
(45.30 m
3
) of water per second, all
of it destined to pass through Brandon.
Dec. 15: Manitoba Emergency
Measures holds an informational
conference for rural municipalities.
Dec. 15: Province projects that spring
water levels would approach or surpass
levels seen in 1976 and 1995. Past food
responses are reviewed.
Dec. 18: Water Stewardship is fore-
casting a food level of up to 1,180.0 feet
(359.66 m) above sea level measured at
First Street.
Dec. 31: Diking and Flood Control Bylaw
provides a reserve for dike work.
2011
Jan 16: Water Stewardship begins
daily food sheets.
Jan. 19: AECOM engaged to do
engineering design for the dike.
Jan. 24: Premier announces $22 million
for food battle.
Feb. 16: Notices sent to riverside homes.
Feb. 24: Council approves $1.47 million
dike enhancement and selects contractor.
Feb. 26: Dike construction and upgrading
begins.
March 3: Premier Selinger announces
provincial sandbagging machine to
be located in Brandon. Also approves
additional funding for diking.
March 14: Internet Flood Discussion
Board created.
March 14: Residents allotted
50 sandbagsmust fll their own.
March 16: The giant super sandbags
that became a symbol of food defense
make their frst appearance along
18th Street.
April 4: Engineering provides a map of a
proposed evacuation area and police go
door-to door to inform residents.
Security to monitor abandoned areas
is put in place.
Alternate housing and emergency
shelters are arranged.
866 dwellings and commercial buildings
are at risk.
April 12: A State of Local Emergency is
declared.
April 16: Highway 459 (Grand Valley
Road) is closed at 18th Street.
May 6: New food forecast predicts a
peak of 1,183.0 feet (360.57 m) measured
at First Street.
May 7: At the First Street Bridge the
1923 food level is exceeded by 16 inches
(40.54 cm).
May 8: Concerns are raised over
possible evacuation of the jail.
May 8: Premier Greg Selinger visits and
reassures Mayor Shari Decter Hirst of
support from the Province.
May 9: Manadatory Precautionary
Evacuation of an area south of the river
begins at 7:30 a.m. (from 4th Street North
to 26th Street Northdoor-to door
notifcation).
May 9: Brandons Community
Sportsplex closes.
May 9: Forty to ffty members of the
26th Field Artillery work on dikes.
May 10: Seventy reservists from
Saskatchewan arrive to help.
May 11: Prime Minister Stephen Harper
visits and praises the food effort.
May 11: Kirckaldy School moves to the
Brandon University Campus.
May 12: Corral Centre is evacuated.
May 12: Low speed limits and other
restrictions are implemented on
18th Street to ensure the dikes arent
accidentally harmed.
May 13: 30,000 sand bags are delivered
to Brandon.
May 13: The call goes out for volunteers
as it is necessary to strengthen and raise
dikes in some spots.
May 15: River peaks at 1,182.89 feet
(360.54 m) measured at First Street, the
highest level since records have been kept.
Normal winter river level is 1,165 to 1,170
feet (355.09 to 356.62 m) above sea level.
May 16: Comedian Shawn Majumder
entertains evacuees.
May 18: State of emergency extended.
May 19: River drops but still is over its
1-in-100 year levels.
May 22: Rain and high winds. No crews
working in the dangerous conditions.
May 24: The Corral Centre re-opens.
Other restrictions begin to be lifted.
May 24: Clean-up of Aqua Dams and hay
bales begins.
May 25: There are 1,415 registered
evacuees from 585 families.
May 28: Businesses south of the river
begin to re-open.
May 28: Evacuees start returning.
May 28: Depots established for return of
sandbags.
May 30: Brandons Community
Sportsplex re-opens.
May 30: Traffc routes such as Hwy. 110,
Brandons eastern access route, begin
to re-open.
June 1: 92 mm of rain.
June 2: State of Emergency extended
to June 18.
June 2: 50 mm rain.
June 18: 75 mm rain.
July 1: Victory parade.
July 11: Emergency Management sends
out fnal food report.
August 2011: Sandbag wall at 18th and
Kirckaldy starts coming down and Grand
Valley road re-opens to traffc.
2012: Some recreational sites along the
river corridor still require repairs.
9
Take me out to the ball Game!
Join us at the ballpark this season
and enjoy Manitoba Senior, High School
and AA Baseball League action!
Andrews Field Baseball Stadium
19th Street North & Hilton Avenue
Brandon, Manitoba
925-18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7S1
Ph. 204-726-1817 Fax 204-726-9303
Email: lhamilton@ashleyhomestore.ca
www.ashleyfurniturehomestore.com
Men (and Machinery) at Work!
Workers began to build up strategic areas
of the dike. Specifcations were based on
comprehensive studies of other foods,
detailed mapping and the best available
food forecasts.
GETTING PREPARED
DIKE CONSTRUCTION | MARCH 2011
MARCH 2
Many did not believe there
would be a food in Brandon
2011. Big thanks to the mayor,
council and the province for
having the insight to prepare
Brandon for an almost
devastating situation.
Heidi Howarth, Owner/
Manager, Trails West Inn
10
223 - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba
Ph. 204-728-0661
Email: info@petspecialtyexperts.com
www.bestwest.ca
Best West Pet Foods
Your Pet Specialty Experts
Working hard to bring
great events to Brandon
Conventions X Trade Shows X Sales
Exhibitions X Meetings X Sporting Events
1 - 545 0ooservat|oo 0r|ve
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7L8
Ph. 204-729-2156 Fax 204-729-2139
Toll Free 1-888-799-1111
Email: info@brandonrst.com
www.brandonrst.com
Winter Work. The challenges of dike
building and earth moving werent made
any easier by winter conditions and tight
schedules. Brandons approach was to
prepare for a worst-case scenario, and that
meant starting early. It certainly paid off.
MARCH 7
Free Estimates
Glass Repair and
Replacement
Accredited Autopac Repairs
841 Assiniboine Avenue
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 0G6
Ph. 204-727-1971 Fax 204-725-3451
Email: collisionrepair@westman.wave.ca
FREE ESTIMATES 24 HOUR SERVICE
Manitoba Hydro Financing
Bryant Rebates Available
100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED!
830 Stickney Avenue
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 0C9
Ph. 204-571-0600 Fax 204-728-3352
Email bayviewph@mymts.net
www.bayviewplbgandheat.com
PLUMBING & HEATING LTD.
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11
Permanent Changes Along 18th Street. The newand
newly enhanceddikes seemed to have changed the landscape
almost overnight, but as time passes they will become the new
normal for areas along Brandons scenic riverbanks. The investment
in saving the citys low-lying business and residential districts for this
food will be much appreciated by future residents.
Butler Byers has been providing
crop hail protection to farmers since
1907. Ask your insurance agent
today about safeguarding your
investment and livelihood with crop
hail insurance from Butler Byers.
3050 - 18th Street horth
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 6Z2
Lyle Franklin, Manager
Ph. 204-726-1012 Fax 204-726-8993
Toll-Free 1-877-587-7703
Email: lfranklin@wcgwave.ca
www.butlerbyershail.com
9OUROFlCIALSUPPLIEROF
great hair days!
Full Salon Services
1000s of professional hair, nail,
skin & body care products plus
hair tools, accessories & more!
825 18th Street North, Suite 13
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7S1
Ph. 204-571-1180
www.chatters.ca
MARCH 10
Full Automotive Repair, Government
SaIety |ospect|oos, Spec|a||z|og |o
Ag and Heavy Equipment Radiators.
1602 Parker 8|vd.
8raodoo, Nao|toba 87A 7P6
Ph. 204-728-3100 Fax 204-727-4787
Email: brsl@mymts.net
0ver 45 Years xper|eoce.
CAA Manitoba is a leading
advocate for the safety and
security of all travellers.
305 - 18th Street horth, 0o|t 0
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 6Z2
Ph. 204-571-4111
Toll-Free 1-877-222-1321
www.caamanitoba.com

12
Queen Elizabeth Park. Brandon has taken advantage of
its scenic riverbanks through the creation of several beautiful,
well-used, and much-appreciated recreational spots such as
Queen Elizabeth Park. Being along the river, they are subject to
short-term fooding in high water years, but by mid April it was
clear that the food of 2011 was going to be exceptional.
Manufacturer of Livestock Feeds
!NIMAL(EALTH0RODUCTS
Livestock Equipment
Fencing Supplies
$OGAND#AT&OOD
320 - 6th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7N7
Ph. 204-727-0571
All at $2 or less.
How simple
is that?
923 - 18th Street North, Suite 6
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7S1
Ph. 204-728-5945
www.dollorama.com
RISING WATER
JUST WEEKS BEFORE THE HIGHEST WATER | APRIL 2011
APRIL 16
APRIL 17
13
Westmans Favorite
Honda Store with more!
1570 18th Street, K1
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 5C5
Ph. 204-729-0594
www.droverpowersports.com
We take games seriously.
3 - 825 - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba
Ph. 204-727-3355
www.ebgames.ca
power to the players
With 250,000 acres of wetlands drained in
Southwestern Manitoba, we lost over two times
the ood storage capacity of the 35 mile long
Shellmouth Reservoir.
Flooding will only get worse unless governments
do a better job protecting wetlands. Contact your
elected ocial. Tell them you want our remaining
wetlands protected.
Wetland drainage
makes ooding worse!
SNALL-80S|hSS 0wh8S:
A8 Y008 80S|hSS ASSTS P80T0T0?
Its better to be prepared than surprised.
At Edward Jones, we can help you:
Protect your family and business
Protect business loans
Protect key employees
Provide funding for a buy/sell agreement
Insurance and annuities are offered by Edward Jones Insurance Agency
(except in Quebec). In Quebec, insurance and annuities are offered by
Edward Jones Insurance Agency (Quebec) Inc. Member CIPF
Call or stop by today to discuss your options.
0ar|eoe NoIIat, Financial Advisor
613 - 10th Street, Unit 2
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 4G6
Ph. 204-727-0927
www.edwardjones.com
Road Closures. A State of Local Emergency was declared on
April 12, enabling the city to act quickly to meet each new crisis.
Brandonites soon became used to the changes to daily routines whether
it be walking ones dog or the daily commute to work. Citizens started
noticing road closures, and both the Grand Valley Road west from 18th
Street and Veterans Way east from First Street became impassable.
APRIL 16
APRIL 18
14
eI iI fer Iess,
guaranIeed

.
8randen
Corra Centre
(204} I2I-6826
we will beaI ahy ccmpeIiIcr's adverIised price by
I0% cI Ihe dinerehce. Ask a lrcducI |xperI Icr
deIails. Scme cchdiIichs ahd exclusichs apply.
Cabinet Makers
Cabinet Refacing
Specialists
545 Assiniboine Avenue
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 0G3
Ph. 204-727-0528 Fax 204-571-0167
Giesbrecht
& Company
Cabinets
F0zzy 8ears |oc.
0aycare
10 koow|too 0r|ve
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 6N7
Ph. 204-726-5321
Come in and enjoy our
warm atmosphere
12 LARGE bays
Hot Soapy Wash
Foamy Brush
h0T wax
1515 Parker 8|vd.
8raodoo, Nao|toba 87A 7P7
Ph. 204-727-5228 Fax 204-728-1243
Floodwaters Spread. Along with road
closures, popular venues for sports activites
were soon out of bounds. The soccer felds
along First Street North and Queen Elizabeth
Park were under water so long that the
damage will be felt for some time to come.
APRIL 18
15
Grand Valley Road.
The Road Closed signs and
orange traffc cones were
placed on many local roads,
including here along Grand
Valley Road west of 18th Street.
The Green Spot Home & Garden is
Westmans largest garden centre
with a delightful
boutique atmosphere.
Choose from a fabulous selection
of garden plants, accents for the
patio, collections of home decor,
fashion and kitchen gadgets.
1329 Rosser Ave East
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7J2
Ph. 204-727-5884 Fax 204-729-9065
www.greenspotbrandon.com
home & garden
the
GREEN SPOT
Located beside the Wheat City
Medical Clinic in the Corral Centre.
0Ph Mon to Fri 9am - 6pm and
Sat 10am - 6pm.
We do compliance packaging!
01 - 1711 k|rkca|dy 0r|ve
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 0B9
Ph. 204-727-1790 Fax 204-727-1772
Email: info@wheatcitymedical.com
www.wheatcitymedical.com
MAY 4
We didnt have much time to evacuate
our offce, and that adversity helped us
to come together and become a stronger
team, not only for ourselves but also for
the community around us. There was
an amazing sense of togetherness, with
everyone doing whatever they could to
help. You could feel the community pride
and spirit, and that is something well
never forget.
Chris Heide, CAA Manitoba
16
Just the Beginning. The super sandbags sit ready
to protect 18th Street and 1st Street (inset). There seems
to be room to spare, but the river is just beginning to
rise. These dikes would have to be extended upwards
and reinforced to protect the extensive commercial and
residential development just to the east.
Heartland Livestock Services is
committed to providing quality,
comprehensive marketing services
for livestock producers.
329 - 12th Street h, 0o|t A
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7K4
Ph. 204-727-1431 Fax 204-727-6520
Email: brandon.lmc@hls.ca
www.hls.ca
Gas Bar & Car Wash located at
300 - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7B 0B0
Ph. 204-727-5473
www.heritagecoop.ca
Serving the Communities of Minnedosa,
Brandon, Wawanesa, Erickson, Sandy Lake
APRIL 30
APRIL 30
APRIL 29
17
801 - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba
Ph. 204-571-3300
homedepot.ca
Complete Auto / Truck Service
&
10 N|o0te 0|| 0haoge.
Nao|toba SaIety |ospect|oo
255 - 17th Street North
8raodoo, Nao|toba 87A 2V5
Ph. 204-727-8929 Fax 204-726-9282
New Name.
hew|y 8eoovated Prem|ses.
Same Friendly Faces.
18th Street Husky
223 - 18th Street North
8raodoo, Nao|toba 87A 2V8
Ph. 204-725-2999
www.myhusky.ca
Two Views From Near the Discovery Centre.
The Riverbank Discovery Centre, dedicated to
preservation of wetland habitat, will have new challenges
to meet when the water goes down. The nearby David
Thompson Bridge appears well equipped to withstand the
intense pressure of the foodwaters.
MAY 7
MAY 1
18
805 - 18
th
St N
Brandon, Manitoba
204-571-5132
Please drink responsibly
Moderation tastes so much better
TMTrademarks of AIR MILES International Trading B.V. Used under license by LoyaltyOne, Inc. and
The Manitoba Liquor Control Commission.
STORE HOURS
Monday - Saturday: 10am - 10pm
Sunday: Noon - 6pm
www.liquormartsonline.com
Smart Clothes,
Everyday Living
Sat0rday, Nay 26 J0mpstart 0ay
Peal and Reveal Discounts of
15% to 50% on Everything Store Wide
911 - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7S1
Ph. 204-725-1508
Toll-Free 1-888-221-4778
www.marks.com
h|-Speed |oteroet
aod h0TV
AhYwh8
443 - 18th Street North
8raodoo, Nao|toba 87A 5Y2
Ph. 204-725-DISH
www.cell.ca
Canadas #1
Packet Seed 0ompaoy.
Flower & vegetable seed, seed
starting supplies, lawn seed,
ower bulbs, potatoes, onions
& so much more.
1000 Parker 8|vd.
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 6E1
Ph. 204-571-7500 Fax 204-726-9378
Toll-Free 1-800-665-6340
www.mckenzieseeds.com
www.mcfayden.com
19
Maintaining the Dikes on First Street.
The wall of sandbags that lined both sides of First Street
did the job, but diligent observation and adjustment, as
well as continuous pumping, was essential. Keeping
this road open for almost all of the emergency period
was just one of many accomplishments.
330-18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7P3
204.727.0330
office@memorieschapel.com
www.memorieschapel.com
Memories Chapel is a full
service funeral home
providing Personalized
services, including casket
burial, cremation and green
options as well as in house
Reception Centre and
licensed funeral director
specializing in Pre-planning.
...because the memories are what we cherish
330-18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7P3
204.727.0330
office@memorieschapel.com
www.memorieschapel.com
Memories Chapel is a full
service funeral home
providing Personalized
services, including casket
burial, cremation and green
options as well as in house
Reception Centre and
licensed funeral director
specializing in Pre-planning.
...because the memories are what we cherish
330-18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7P3
204.727.0330
office@memorieschapel.com
www.memorieschapel.com
Memories Chapel is a full
service funeral home
providing Personalized
services, including casket
burial, cremation and green
options as well as in house
Reception Centre and
licensed funeral director
specializing in Pre-planning.
...because the memories are what we cherish
330-18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7P3
204.727.0330
office@memorieschapel.com
www.memorieschapel.com
Memories Chapel is a full
service funeral home
providing Personalized
services, including casket
burial, cremation and green
options as well as in house
Reception Centre and
licensed funeral director
specializing in Pre-planning.
...because the memories are what we cherish
330-18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7P3
204.727.0330
office@memorieschapel.com
www.memorieschapel.com
Memories Chapel is a full
service funeral home
providing Personalized
services, including casket
burial, cremation and green
options as well as in house
Reception Centre and
licensed funeral director
specializing in Pre-planning.
...because the memories are what we cherish
330-18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7P3
204.727.0330
office@memorieschapel.com
www.memorieschapel.com
Memories Chapel is a full
service funeral home
providing Personalized
services, including casket
burial, cremation and green
options as well as in house
Reception Centre and
licensed funeral director
specializing in Pre-planning.
...because the memories are what we cherish
330-18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7P3
204.727.0330
office@memorieschapel.com
www.memorieschapel.com
Memories Chapel is a full
service funeral home
providing Personalized
services, including casket
burial, cremation and green
options as well as in house
Reception Centre and
licensed funeral director
specializing in Pre-planning.
...because the memories are what we cherish
330-18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7P3
204.727.0330
office@memorieschapel.com
www.memorieschapel.com
Memories Chapel is a full
service funeral home
providing Personalized
services, including casket
burial, cremation and green
options as well as in house
Reception Centre and
licensed funeral director
specializing in Pre-planning.
...because the memories are what we cherish
330-18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7P3
204.727.0330
office@memorieschapel.com
www.memorieschapel.com
Memories Chapel is a full
service funeral home
providing Personalized
services, including casket
burial, cremation and green
options as well as in house
Reception Centre and
licensed funeral director
specializing in Pre-planning.
...because the memories are what we cherish
330-18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7P3
204.727.0330
office@memorieschapel.com
www.memorieschapel.com
Memories Chapel is a full
service funeral home
providing Personalized
services, including casket
burial, cremation and green
options as well as in house
Reception Centre and
licensed funeral director
specializing in Pre-planning.
...because the memories are what we cherish
330-18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7P3
204.727.0330
office@memorieschapel.com
www.memorieschapel.com
Memories Chapel is a full
service funeral home
providing Personalized
services, including casket
burial, cremation and green
options as well as in house
Reception Centre and
licensed funeral director
specializing in Pre-planning.
...because the memories are what we cherish
330-18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7P3
204.727.0330
office@memorieschapel.com
www.memorieschapel.com
Memories Chapel is a full
service funeral home
providing Personalized
services, including casket
burial, cremation and green
options as well as in house
Reception Centre and
licensed funeral director
specializing in Pre-planning.
...because the memories are what we cherish
NP Ior
Brandon - Souris
8 - 223 - 18th Street North
8raodoo, Nao|toba 87A 2V8
Ph. 204-726-7600 Fax 204-726-7699
Toll-Free 1-866-558-0555
Email: merv.tweed.c1@parl.gc.ca
www.mervtweed.com
MERV
TWEED
MAY 7
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RAISINg THE DIkE ON 18TH STREET
One couldnt pass by the barricaded entrance to Grand Valley Road without being acutely aware that a huge
wall of water lay just out of sight, and that keeping that water out was a monumental task. This wall was the
only barrier between thousands of tonnes of water and millions of dollars worth of commercial and residential
property. As forecasts were revised upwards, a third level was placed on the dike beginning on May 7.
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AN ISLAND IN A SEA OF FLOODwATER
The Riverbank Discovery Centre was designed for its location on a food plain. Although quickly surrounded by
foodwater, the building itself was not swamped.
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2011 reminded us of the power of Mother Nature
as the very river that our organization has worked to
protect and enhance for over a decade has re-shaped
Brandons riverbank signifcantly. In the years ahead,
we will work to re-build the River Corridor. However,
some of the damage is irreparable reinforcing to us
the power of water and the impact of this high water
event on our community.
Lois MacDonald, Riverbank Discovery Centre,
Brandon Riverbank Inc.
22
New Diking Technology.
Where there was a need to top
off the re-built permanent earthen
dikes, Aqua Dams were effective.
These were quick to install and
relatively easy to remove.
6et the N60 work|og Ior yo0!
1665 Parker 8|vd.
8raodoo, Nao|toba 87A 7P7
Fax 204-571-4472
Toll-Free 1-866-982-6438
Email: resourcecentre@mgeu.ca
www.mgeu.ca
N6| F|oaoc|a| |oc. prov|des ao exteos|ve
raoge oI compreheos|ve hoaoc|a| so|0t|oos
to 0aoad|aos. N6| F|oaoc|a| |s a s0bs|d|ary
oI 0esjard|os F|oaoc|a| 6ro0p, 0aoada's
|argest cooperat|ve hoaoc|a| gro0p.
811 - 18th Street horth, 0o|t 3
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7S1
Ph. 204-729-3400 Fax 204-727-4568
Toll-Free 1-800-392-1388
MAY 8
HIGH WATER
THE FLOOD FIGHT HITS FULL STEAM | MAY 2011
What an amazing community Brandon is.
Everyone came together in a way that can
only be described as heroic. Contributions
to the effort were large and small, but
everyone contributed in some way. What
a different outcome it could have been.
From the very beginning when the City of
Brandon began to ensure that everyone
would stay safe and dry, to the volunteers
who assisted the evacuees from homes
and businesses in the area, to everyone
who touched a sandbag, and everyone
that knew someone affected, thank you.
Sharon Robinson, Prairie Scale
MAY 9
MAY 9
23
Come in and be inspired.
9OURFAVORITESAREALWAYSINSTOCK
We promise low price and great
quality, and we are right in your
neighborhood.
901 - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7S1
Ph. 204-728-2398
www.michaels.com
Thank you to our loyal staff members,
guests and volunteers for your support
during this time. Big thanks to the city
and workers for you tireless efforts to
keep us dry.
823 - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7S1
Ph. 204-726-5656 Fax 1-866-867-1619
Email: montanas3632@cara.com
www.montanas.com
With 30 years in ready-to-move,
custom-built, and site-built homes,
Midway assures you a great new
home experience!
1702 Stickney Avenue
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 6S3
Ph. 204-728-2846 Fax 204-725-1404
www.midwayhomes.ca
Custom fabrication of steel,
stainless and aluminum as well as
sales of those raw materials.
1110 McGregor Ave
8raodoo, Nao|toba 87A 7P4
Ph. 204-726-8081 Fax 204-729-8382
Email: mrngstar@mts.net
No Substitute for People Power. On May 6,
a revised forecast predicted that higher water was on the
way. The call went out for volunteers as it was necessary to
strengthen and raise dikes in some spots. People responded
and as the new crest was slated to arrive, crews of workers
and volunteers did some last-minute checking and fxing.
1st Street Bridge Viewed from the East
23
MAY 9
24
MTS Connect - Corral Centre
your full solution provider to the
many services offered by MTS
|oc|0d|og TV, |oteroet, Phooe
Service, Wireless, AAA Alarms, and
Business Solutions.
Corral Centre
0o|t 4, 825 - 18th Street horth
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7S1
Ph. 204-571-4070 Fax 204-571-4071
Email: admin@corralcommunications.ca
A gathering place where people
can meet and take part in
recreational activities.
For more information on hall
rentals, bingos and public skating
please call 725-2973.
1313 Stickney Avenue
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 6A2
Ph. 204-725-2973
NORTH END
COMMUNITY CENTRE
We invite you to build your
next project on North American
Lumbers solid foundation with
quality products, expert advice, and
service from our experienced staff.
1610 Byng Avenue
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7J7
Ph. 204-728-8550 Fax 204-728-8563
Cell 204-761-3770
www.northamericanlumber.ca
we are a I0|| serv|ce brokerage hrm
providing a full range of retirement
and investment accounts.
Would you like a portfolio review?
Let us help you achieve your
hoaoc|a| goa|s!
5 - 1711 k|rkca|dy 0r|ve
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 0B9
Ph. 204-728-7866 Fax 204-728-9448
Toll Free 1-866-720-7866
Email: info@northernsi.com
www.northernsi.com
Just to be Sure. No method was overlooked;
each had its place. Thanks to the hundreds of
workers and volunteers who participated in the food
effort, we were able to do more than just respond to
emergencies, we were able to take precautions. It
turned out that being cautious served Brandon well.
25
Advanced Sandbagging. The dikes along
18th Street were raised to three layers in preparation
for what was hoped would be the fnal crest. One can
only imagine the army of workers that it would take
to do the work of these machines, or the damage that
would result if it wasnt done right!
S|X 00A0S oI great soacks
has been made possible by a
tradition of innovation.
237 16th Street North
8raodoo, Nao|toba 87A 6X6
Ph. 204-728-2450 Fax 204-728-0103
www.olddutchfoods.ca
MAY 9
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We got evacuated at our busiest time of
the year and continued to pay all our staff,
a staff of 43, with next to no revenue. It
was a very challenging time for both our
companies, but it could have been a lot
worse if it was not for all the volunteers
and city workers and all their hard work
to keep our property dry. We are very
appreciative.
Scott Ball, Precision Toyota
26
Care & Caution. Floodwaters are extremely dangerous,
and only authorized watercraft were allowed on the river.
Once the water started to rise, crews were often called upon
to check a submerged part of a dike or other infrastructure.
Aqua Dams required particular care as they could be
punctured if debris was allowed to build up along them.
s#OMPLETE3ETUP4AKE$OWN
3ERVICESs3PECIALTY,INENS
s#HAIR#OVERSs$ISHWARE
s"ACKDROPS
s#EILING7ORKs#ENTERPIECES
and so much more!
835 Stickney Avenue
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 0E1
Ph. 204-727-5029 Fax 204-571-0074
Email: katrina@partyprofessionals.ca
www.partyprofessionals.ca
9gZVb^i!LVci^i!=VkZ^i
EVginEgd[Zhh^dcVah
& rental company
Family Restaurant
Between the bridges
229 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 5A6
Ph. 204-727-6517
MAY 10
Ducks Unlimited Canadas
Manitoba Provincial Offce,
located in the Riverbank Discovery
Centre, was one of the businesses
evacuated for almost a month
when the Assiniboine River
jumped the banks and rose to
within a few feet of our offces.
Upon returning we witnessed
the devastation caused to our
interpretive ponds and the
riverbank itself. A year later
were still evaluating options for
repair or replacement, which
may be risky given the potential
for similar future fows. The City
of Brandon did an amazing job
of limiting the damage and were
thankful to have come through
without any damage to the offces
and contents. Now its back to
work protecting and restoring
the wetlands in Manitoba that
are vital to the citys future food
protection.
Bob Grant, Manager of
Provincial Operations, Manitoba,
Ducks Unlimited Canada
Getting Close.
Floodwaters rise within
inches of the bottom of
the David Thompson
Bridge on 18th Street
North on May 7, 2011.
MAY 10
MAY 10 MAY 7
27
Traffc on 18th Street.
There was a real concern that at some
point access to the city via 18th Street
or First Street would be cut off. Here,
southbound traffc of 18th Street is
diverted to one northbound lane.
Businesses within the evacuation zone
prepared as best they could for any
potential foodwaters.
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Furniture and Millwork
2ElNISHING)NSURANCE#LAIMS
-OVING$AMAGE7ATERAND
&IRE$AMAGE
721 Assiniboine Ave
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 0G5
Ph. 204-728-3974 Fax 204-725-0357
Toll-Free 1-800-705-7818
Email: persnickety@wcgwave.ca
PERSNICKETY
Furniture Renishers
0ROUDTOBESERVING"RANDON
& community for over a decade
with high quality new and
pre-owned vehicles!
415 - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 6Z2
Ph. 204-725-2566 Fax 204-728-4546
Toll-Free 1-866-357-6190 Cell 204-573-0085
Email: sean@planetkia.ca
www.planetkia.ca
0omp|ete L|oe oI Pet Food
& Supplies
0peo Noo-Fr| 9-9, Sat 9-6,
Sun Noon-5
See our online catalogue
825 - 18th Street horth, 0o|t 10
Brandon, Manitoba
Ph. 204-728-2031
www.petvalu.com
Measurement Canada Registered to
approve scales Legal For Trade.
We can take care of all your scale
requirements, from personal,
commercial, agricultural
and municipal.
Always working with you.
Mailing Address
0hce 174, 0o|t 100 1300 - 18th Street
8raodoo, Nao|toba 87A 6X7
Ph. 204-726-4453 Fax 204-726-3251
Toll Free 1-855-776-2476
Email: PrairieScale@mts.net
www.PrairieScale.ca
Support from both provincial and federal
governments had been promised and both Premier
Selinger and Prime Minster Harper visited. Mr.
Harper viewed the food area by helicopter on
May 11 and in a short scrum near the 18th Street
Bridge praised the food response efforts.
The Prime Minister Visits.
Merv Tweed, MP for Brandon-Souris (left)
and Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger (right)
greet Prime Minister Stephen Harper on his
arrival in Brandon on May 11, 2011.
29
Teamwork. Once the huge
sandbag flling machines, the front-
end loaders, and the other machinery
have done their work, some jobs still
require a strong back and endurance.
There was a good supply of both.
Best prices & selection at your local
8raodoo Toyota 0ea|er.
404 - 18th Street North
8raodoo, Nao|toba 87A 7P3
Ph. 204-725-0508
Toll-Free 1-888-725-0508
www.precisiontoyota.ca
RANA Respiratory Care Group
|s ooe oI hve braoches oI a
Manitoba-born business. We
assist in the diagnosis, treatment
and management of sleep apnea,
asthma, 00P0 aod oxygeo therapy.
305 - 18th Street horth, 0o|t
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 6Z2
Ph. 204-725-3207 Fax 204-725-3339
Toll-Free 1-888-297-7889
Email: info@ranacaregroup.com
www.ranacaregroup.com
MAY 11
30
Patience, Please.
It is never easy to deal with setbacks that are
beyond your control. Brandon businesses
reacted to the situation with understanding,
patience and generosity, posting messages to
customers, such as this sign at Home Depot.
Find out about our
"IRTHDAY0ACKAGE2OMANCE
0ACKAGE-EETING2OOM0ACKAGE
AND'OLF0ACKAGE
345 - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 6Z2
Ph. 204-728-2200 Fax 204-728-2201
Toll-Free 1-877-728-2200
Email: frontdesk@redwoodmotorinn.ca
www.redwoodmotorinn.ca
Home to the Regional Tourism Centre,
00cks 0o||m|ted F|e|d 0Ihces & 8raodoo
F|rst, the 8|verbaok 0|scovery 0eotre oIIers
visitor information, souvenirs, interpretive
programs & is a starting point for
appreciating the Assiniboine River Corridor.
#1 - 545 0ooservat|oo 0r|ve
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7L8
Ph. 204-729-2141 Fax 204-729-2139
Toll-Free 1-888-799-1111
Email: info@riverbank.mb.ca
www.riverbank.mb.ca
MAY 14
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9OURFULLSERVICE'ROCERWITH$ELI
"AKERY0RODUCE&LORAL0HARMACY
Starbucks, and Gas Bar with Lotto.
We are a proud Air Miles partner.
See us at Safeway.ca or
visit us at the Corral Center!
921 - 18th Street North, Corral Center
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7S1
Ph. 204-726-8014
www.safeway.ca
Cash & Carry
We service C-stores, restaurants,
caterers, schools, clubs and
seasonal businesses in Brandon
and the surrounding area.
0peo Noo - Fr| 8am - 4:30pm &
Sat0rday moro|og 8am - 11:30am
We are open to the public!
205 - 16th Street North
8raodoo, Nao|toba 87A 6X6
Ph. 204-725-1422 Fax 204-728-1391
We offer the best selection of
brands, styles and types of
mattresses.
811 - 18th Street North, Suite 1
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7S1
Ph. 204-571-4420
Toll-Free 1.888.SLEEP 88
www.sleepcountry.ca
3/+/,(!,,
Fully Licenced Banquet Hall
Capacity 250
Homecooked meals at reasonable
rates for weddings, anniversaries
& socials.
33 - 11th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 2S1
Ph. 204-727-2209
Looks like theyre closed.
For most businesses in the Danger Zone
the cost and effort of protecting the premises
was deemed the sensible thing to do. In the
end the dikes and other preparation did the
job, but that was never a sure thing.
MAY 14
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During the food, staff were left
unemployed and customers didnt
have their favourite eating place. The
uncertainty of the strength of the dike was
always in the back of our minds. All these
things combined to create a stressful
situation that made it impossible to focus
on the day-to-day operations, never mind
the loss of business which had a huge
impact on our bottom line.
Ben Hernandez, Montanas Cookhouse
MAY 13
MAY 12
32
927 Assiniboine Avenue
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 0G7
Ph. 204-727-2233 Fax 204-727-5420
Parish Priest 204-729-8056
Email: info@stmarysukrbrandon.com
www.stmarysukrbrandon.com/
- Hearing Assessments
)NDUSTRIAL4ESTING
- Hearing Aid Selection
& Fitting
305F - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 6Z2
Ph. 204-725-5151 Fax 204-725-5150
Toll-Free 1-800-750-5554
/URMISSIONTOINSPIREANDNURTURE
the human spirit one person,
one cup, and one neighborhood
at a time.
821 - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7C 1A5
Ph. 204-727-2119
www.starbucks.ca
Roads Closed. The evacuation of an area south of the river
eventually caused the displacement of over 1,400 registered
evacuees. Brandonites got quite used to Road Closed signs, used
to keep us away from dangerous spots and to protect evacuation
zones. A strong police presence and a dedicated Citizens on Patrol
Program offered comfort to those leaving their possessions behind.
33
I thought they
opened at 9?
Apparently not everyone
got the memo about the
business closures.
Make Everyday
an Adventure
1UALITYBIKESKAYAKS
clothing and footwear.
Exceptional Customer
Service.
135 - 17th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 0M4
Ph. 204-727-2767
www. streamnwood.com
4HE35"7!9

brand is famous for

its made-to-order sandwiches and
salads. Sandwiches are made right
before your eyes and are served
ON)TALIAN7HEATANDAVARIETYOF
seasoned breads, baked daily in
each restaurant.
Corral Centre
2 - 821 - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7S1
Ph. 204-727-8942
www.subway.com
MAY 14
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A Safe, Dry Road. One couldnt help but marvel
at the feats of engineering evident throughout the
food zone. On First Street super sandbags, regular
sandbags and concrete barriers, placed together,
offered motorists a feeling of (relative) security as
they travelled through our city.
0aoada's Prem|er Taoo|og Sa|oo
Tanning
Look Good. Feel Great.
825 - 18th Street horth, 0o|t 12
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7S1
Ph. 204-727-3111 Fax 204-727-1444
www.tanfx.ca
The Source has a complete
lineup of electronics plus
accessories to stay connected and
powered up while on-the-go.
The electronics you want.
The help you need.
Corral Centre
825 - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7S1
Ph. 204-571-9170
www.thesource.ca
Trademark of The Source (Bell) Electronics Inc.
MAY 19
The 2011 Flood events were
diffcult times for all of us. After
our store was evacuated the staff
asked if they are going to have
jobs the next day, and with every
day away from the store the
pressure kept building up. Thank
you to the Brandon United Way
their fundraising efforts provided
some staff members with much
needed additional funds after the
evacuation period.
Frank Arndt, President,
MTS Connect Corral Centre
MAY 19
MAY 19
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210 - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba
Ph. 204-727-3800
www.trailswest.mb.ca
We are open for the
2012 Camping Season!
4100 6raod Va||ey 8oad, 8ox 6, S|te 305, 883
8raodoo, Nao|toba 87A 5Y3
Ph. 204-571-0750 Fax 204-728-2352
Ln99.995-28w La49.858-13n
Email: turtlecrossing@mts.net
www.turtlecrossing.ca
TRANSCANADA
Motorsport
Motorsport
Kawasaki Motorcycles,
!46SAND3IDEBY3IDES
Good Selection of street and
off road accessories.
206 - 16th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba
Ph. 204-725-1003 Fax 204-571-0463
www.transcanadamotorsports.com
3OFT)CE#REAM(ARD)CE#REAM
3HAKES3UNDAES5PSIDE$OWN
"ANANA3PLIT0ARFAITS3LUSHIES)CE
Cream Cakes, Smoothies
305A - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 6Z2
Ph. 204-725-3003
Email: twister0@mts.net
A Temporary Fix.
Aqua Dams offered a way to
respond quickly to a situation.
Pictured here is Brandons
Eastern Access Hwy 110.
Thats the Spirit! What else can one do but put on a smile
and fght the good fght? This sign certainly typifes the mixture of
determination and good spirits that were evident throughout the city.
MAY 26
MAY 26
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Services 1st & 3rd
Sunday of each month
59 - 11th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 2S3
Ukrainian
Orthodox Church
Of The Holy Ghost
Affordable, consistent,
convenient & friendly hair
salon services.
Walk-ins Welcome.
825 - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba
Ph. 204-571-1117
www.ultracuts.ca
Ukrainian
Reading
Association
Hall
1005 Assiniboine Avenue
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 0G8
Ph. 204-727-7144
Hilliard Sawchuk Ph. 204-728-3157
hilsawch@mymts.net
Tire & Lube Express
6ISION#ENTRE
0HARMACY
Wireless Connect Centre
0HOTO,AB
0ORTRAIT3TUDIO
-C$ONALDS
903 - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7S1
Ph. 204-726-5821
www.walmart.ca
The View From Above.
The Riverbank Discovery
Centre and The David
Thompson Bridge.
The Footbridge. While car
traffc was largely maintained, the
pedestrian short-cut between the
North End and the City Centre was
impassable for months. The bridge,
however, stayed above it all.
Another Island. The
Botanical Gardens in Eleanor
Kidd Park, normally the busy
site of picnics, concerts and
weddings, sits just above the
foodwater, waiting it out.
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7AREHOUSE/NE4HE*EAN3TORE
is a casual fashion retailer for
men and ladies of all ages. From
casual basics, to on trend styles,
theres something for everyone at
7AREHOUSE/NE
825 - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7S1
Ph. 204-725-1546
www.warehouseone.com
We provide auto, home, life, farm and
business insurance to residents of
100 plus communities across
British Columbia, Alberta,
Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
#15 - 825 - 18th Street North
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7S1
Ph. 204-728-8510 Fax 204-571-6615
Toll-Free 1-800-665-4245
Email: wbrn@westernfg.ca
www.westernfg.ca
JUNE 1
The 2011 food is one I will never forget.
Evacuation day was utter chaos; however,
family, friends, and people in the business
community all showed up to help us remove
everything in our entire building. We
cannot say thank you enough!
Katrina Sigurdson, Owner,
Party Professionals & Rental Company
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All Quiet at Turtle Crossing Campground.
As with other riverside locations, a little spring
fooding has to be considered normal, but in 2011 this
popular camping and recreation site would be closed
for the season. The dark area at the centre of the
photo is the campgrounds swimming pool.
JUNE 1
Fam||y Pract|ce aod wa|k-|o c||o|c
w|th LA8 aod PhA8NA0Y oo s|te.
we have 6 0octors accept|og
new patients, with same day
appointments available.
01 - 1711 k|rkca|dy 0r|ve
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 0B9
Ph. 204-727-1711 Fax 204-727-1707
Email: info@wheatcitymedical.com
www.wheatcitymedical.com
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The 2011 food was a great
learning experience. It helped me
understand the City of Brandons
responsibilities, insurance
companies fne print, the
provinces stand on helping small
business and my staff and their
dedication to Lady of the Lake.
We are a strong vibrant business
that can seem to withstand
disaster. A positive outlook to the
future is helping us recover from
the food evacuation and carry
us on to bigger and better things.
Lady of the Lake is a warrior
and integral part of the Brandon
community and tourism industry.
But, most of all, our customer
loyalty is key to Lady of the
Lakes survival and we love every
person who walks through our
doors. Thanks a million folks!
Bridget Shaw, Lady of the Lake
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Comprehensive Treatment with
Lead|og-dge 0rthodoot|cs
0r. Jay w|ob0ro, DMD, DIP; Ortho, FRCDC
Over 30 years of Experience
Free Consultations
06 - 1711 k|rkca|dy 0r|ve
Brandon, Manitoba R7B 3N3
Ph. 204-727-0401 Fax 204-727-9031
Email info@drwinburn.com
www.winburnorthodontics.com
Orthodontics
W
inburn
Perfecting the art of the smile : )
Find Fabulous
for Less
901 - 18th Street horth, 0o|t 8
Brandon, Manitoba R7A 7S1
Ph. 204-729-9029 Fax 204-729-9127
www.winners.ca
On July 1, 2011, Brandons
food-fghting volunteers,
evacuees, city staff and civic
politicians marched from City
Hall to the Keystone Centre
where they participated in
Canada Day festivities. The
Victory Parade celebrated
months of preparation,
planning and hard work during
which the citizens of Brandon
mustered every resource
at their command to limit
the damage from the most
potentially devastating food in
the citys history.
The Assiniboine River fows
through the northern end of the
City of Brandon, an area that
is home to a growing number
of industrial, commercial,
residential, and recreational
properties. Some dikes did
protect the area but over the
winter it became increasingly
clear the food of 2011 might
well eclipse those seen in 1995,
1976 and even 1923.
What followed was a spirited
effort to fght back. The goal
was to meet the worst-case
scenario. The plan of attack
was simple. Save everything
possible give up nothing
without a fght.
Brandon was aided by
the latest in food-fghting
technology, by help from all
levels of government, and by
the latest in food forecasting
expertise. But perhaps it was
the tireless work done by staff
and volunteers, and the good-
spirited cooperation by the
citizens themselves, that will
be remembered most.
By all account, a Victory
Parade was more than
appropriate. The dikes that
were designed, built, and
maintained with such a
concerted effort were up
to the task. Throughout the
crisis, everywhere one looked
one saw that combination of
teamwork, ingenuity and sheer
determination that would have
made the pioneers proud.
Yes, the food of 2011 was the
most costly in Brandons history
but we came out of it with an
appreciation for the awesome
power of nature and a great
deal of pride in a job well done.
ONE FOR THE
RECORD BOOkS
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Rising
ABOVE
The Flood of 2011 is still fresh in the minds
of Brandon and western Manitoba residents. As
time passes, details may fade, but few of us will
ever forget that spring when Brandon was featured
routinely on the national news as we dug in and
faced a very real threat.
The hardships and loss faced by the residents,
business owners and workers of the affected area
wont be soon forgotten, but perhaps there is solace in
the fact that an equally real victory was won.
This commemorative pictorial review of those
events will help keep both the details and the spirit
of accomplishment alive. Hopefully, it will rekindle
unique memories in each of us.
It is above all a story of people coming together with
energy and spirit for a common purpose.
Rising Above is funded by the Manitoba Government through the Excess Moisture Economic Stimulus Program.
The impact of the 2011 Flood on businesses in the evacuation area was great and they continue to need our support.
Andrews Field
Ashley Furniture HomeStore
Assiniboine Collision & Glass
Bayview Plumbing & Heating Ltd.
Best West Pet Foods
Brandon First
Brandon Radiator & Auto Service Ltd.
Butler Byers Hail Insurance Ltd.
CAA Manitoba
Chatters
Co-op Feeds
Dollarama
Drover Powersports
Ducks Unlimited Canada
EB Games
Edward Jones
Expert Auto
Future Shop
Fuzzy Bears Inc. Daycare
Giesbrecht & Company Cabinets
Giant Car Wash
The Green Spot Home & Garden
Guardian Wheat City Pharmacy
Heartland Livestock Services
Heritage Co-op Gas Bar & Car Wash
The Home Depot
Husky
Joes Auto Clinic Ltd.
Lady of the Lake
Liquor Mart
MANCAN Communications
Marks Work Wearhouse
McKenzie
Memories Chapel &
Pre-planning Centre
Merv Tweed, MP for Brandon-Souris
MGEU Manitoba Government and
General Employees Union
MGI Financial Inc.
Michaels
Midway Homes
Montanas Cookhouse
Moores Clothing for Men
Morningstar Metal
MTS Connect Coral Centre
North American Lumber
North End Community Centre
Northern Securities
NRG Signs
Old Dutch
Party Professionals & Rental Company
Patches Family Restaurant
Persnickety Furniture Refnishers
Pet Valu
Planet KIA
Prairie Scale
Precision Toyota
RANA Respiratory Care Group
Redwood Inn
Riverbank Discovery Centre
Safeway
SleepCountry
Sobeys Inc. Cash & Carry
Sokol Hall
St. Marys Ukrainian Catholic Church
Starbucks
Stokes Hearing & Audiology Services
Straight Up Salon With Extras
StreamnWood
Subway
TanFX
The Source
Trails West Inn
TransCanada Motorsport
Turtle Crossing Campground
Twisters Ice Cream Shoppe
Ukrainian Orthodox Church
of the Holy Ghost
Ukrainian Reading Association Hall
Ultracuts Professional Haircare Centers
Walmart
Warehouse One The Jean Store
Western Financial Group
Westoba Credit Union
Wheat City Medical Clinic and
Pharmacy
Winburn Orthodontics
Winners