Amazon’s cloud computing service is recovering from a major outage that disrupted online activity around the world today. Amazon Web Services provides remote computing services to many governments, universities and companies. There were issues with Snapchat, Fortnite, the McDonald’s app and many other services.
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A new emergency communication system is being tested in six Brandon schools. A report today says the updated Risk Response Plan, known as HZ Alert, has a number of features including sending instant alerts to staff and administrative teams during an emergency. The system doesn’t replace 9-1-1 calls or existing school response procedures, it adds another layer to improve speed.
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Brandon’s new transitional housing facility on 16th Street North is reportedly set to open in December. Operated by the John Howard Society, the 24 unit building will provide housing for parolees, and those identified as suitable for the program. The project has received a total of $9-million from Manitoba and Ottawa, while the City donated the land.
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Manitoba is receiving over $82-million in federal funding for projects like public transit, highways and tourism. Brandon’s share is $2.97-million. The money from the Canada Community-Building Fund is allocated on a per capita basis.
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Ottawa has come through with $1.6-million for 10 freshwater projects to help to protect and restore Lake Winnipeg. The lake’s fishery is a quarter of the nation’s catch, and tourism and recreation accounts for more than $100-billion annually to the Manitoba economy.
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Right now, gas prices are averaging $1.23-a-litre in Brandon – but industry experts say it could drop to around $1.10. Tensions between the U-S and China, and a glut of oil in the market have pushed barrel prices lower. Pump prices have hovered close to a dollar in Alberta, and Manitoba could see numbers close to that.
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Prime Minister Mark Carney will travel to Malaysia, Singapore and South Korea over nine days at the end of the month to attend two multinational summits. The focus of the mission is to discuss removing trade barriers and attracting global capital.
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If you think pickleball is the gentler cousin of tennis – think again. A study has found eye injuries among pickle-ballers have soared, especially among those aged 50 and older. Players are either getting hurt from a direct hit from the ball or by a paddle. Wearing safety eye wear while playing is recommended. By the way, Brandon’s new Pickleball/Tennis facility is set to open early next year.
