🏗️ Brandon Launches New Capital Project Dashboard
The City of Brandon has rolled out a new online dashboard giving residents up‑to‑date information on 2026 construction projects. Major work this season includes road renewals, roundabout construction, watermain replacements, and upgrades to the Water Treatment Facility. Thirty‑seven projects are currently listed. Get more details here.
🚭 Manitoba Moves to Restrict Flavoured Vaping Products
The province plans to limit flavoured vape sales in stores where minors are allowed, saying youth‑friendly flavours can draw teens toward nicotine. The Manitoba Lung Association argues the proposal doesn’t go far enough and wants the bill strengthened.
🍽️ One in Four Canadians Now Facing Food Insecurity
New national data shows 25% of Canadians are living with food insecurity. Some low‑income households are ending the month more than $600 short as rent and grocery costs exceed their entire income.
🛒 BITSA Bill Sparks Debate Over Grocery Savings
Manitoba’s BITSA bill — aimed at shaving a few cents off grocery bills — is facing criticism. Brandon West MLA Wayne Balcaen says those savings are too small and argues his party’s plan of a broader tax exemption for workers would deliver more to Manitoba families. He posted his message on social media at 3:30 morning.
🇨🇦 Premiers Clash Over Alberta’s Referendum Timeline
At the Premiers’ conference, Wab Kinew urged Alberta Premier Danielle Smith to delay the province’s separation referendum by a year or two, citing uncertainty for major projects. Kinew also joked that Indigenous people would use every treaty right available to keep Connor McDavid in Canada. Smith says the October vote will proceed as planned.
🍽️ Hermanos Drops Cigar Lounge Plan at Brandon Firehall
Hermanos has cancelled its cigar‑lounge concept at the Brandon Firehall, saying it no longer fits the restaurant’s vision. The steakhouse remains on track for a mid‑June opening, with plans to employ 50–70 full‑ and part‑time staff.
🛡️ RCMP Wrap Up ‘Vital Archer’ Security Exercise at CFB Shilo
RCMP and U.S. agencies have completed “Vital Archer,” a national‑security drill at CFB Shilo designed to test responses to a weapons‑of‑mass‑destruction threat. Officials say the exercise revealed real coordination gaps — lessons smaller centres like Brandon rely on when national readiness is shaped by big‑city training.
🎓 Métis Knowledge Keeper to Receive BU Honorary Degree
Métis Knowledge Keeper Verna DeMontigny will receive an honorary degree at Brandon University’s Convocation for her lifelong work preserving the Michif language and Métis culture. She has shared Métis knowledge across schools, institutions, and cultural programs throughout southwestern Manitoba.
🏛️ David Chartrand Acclaimed as MMF President
David Chartrand has been acclaimed as president of the Manitoba Métis Federation, extending nearly 30 years in the role. Twenty‑two other positions — including regional vice‑presidents — remain contested in the upcoming election.
💦 Brandon Spray Pads Still Closed; Killarney Opens Today
While Winnipeg’s splash parks are already open, Brandon families are still waiting. The city says local spray pads won’t open yet as crews finish inspections and water‑quality testing. Killarney’s spray park opens today.
🚔 RCMP Clock Driver at 185 km/h Near Niverville
Manitoba RCMP say a driver was caught going 185 km/h in a 100 zone near Niverville Monday evening. He received a $1,163 ticket, a Serious Offence Notice, and lost his licence on the spot.
🕵️ RCMP Investigate Disguised Suspect in Rapid City
Spruce Plains RCMP are investigating after a disguised suspect spray‑painted over security cameras at a Rapid City convenience store around 4 a.m. Friday. The suspect — covered head‑to‑toe and possibly wearing a red wig — caused no other damage and made no attempt to enter the building. Police are asking anyone with information to contact RCMP or Crime Stoppers.
