Leons Headlines April 16: Winter storm movies into southern MB today into Friday, bringing snow (4–8 cm, up to 15 cm in higher areas) risk of freezing rain along & south of the Trans-Canada Hwy.
-Brandon businesses report a 40% rise in retail theft over the past year, with local shops increasingly asking for help from the local chamber of commerce.
-Brandon City Council approves the Salamander Summer Music Festival July 17–19 at Rideau Park.
-A large crowd in Austin watched the planned demolition of a 1951 grain elevator Wednesday morning.
-Higher mortgage rates and weaker sales have cooled Canada’s housing market in 2026, while Brandon saw fewer home sales but record-high median prices.
-Brandon Chamber of Commerce annual State of the City luncheon is today.
-Waves Leisure in Brandon has been sold to Livingstone Outdoor and will now operate from its Byng Avenue location, with the former owner staying on.
-MB paramedic punished for social media posts after 2023 attack on Israel; Wpg paramedic since 2013, reprimanded and ordered to pay $6K for antisemitic post.
-CFIB-Canada has more businesses closing than opening since 2024, as owners cite rising costs, regulations & uncertainty.
-RBC says over $1 trillion left Canada in investments from 2015–2024, marking the biggest capital exodus in the nation’s history.
-Wpg Blue Bombers post $12M operating profit for 2025 season.
-US President issues pipeline permits to build & maintain cross-border oil infrastructure between Canada & the U.S.
-Air travel faces ‘unprecedented’ fuel crisis as war squeezes supply, experts warn.
-San Jose visits Wpg tonight as the Jets close out the NHL season without a playoff appearance.
Updated map for Thursday April 16th from EC:
A: 🧊 1-3mm ice (freezing rain/wet snow)
B: ❄️ 10-15cm & blowing snow
C: ❄️ 15-25cm & blowing snow
D: ❄️ 10-15cm & 🧊 1mm (freezing rain/wet snow)
E: 🧊 1-3mm (freezing rain/wet snow)
F: ❄️ 10-15cm
Hack at BOOKING DOT COM affecting Manitobans. A cybersecurity incident has impacted Booking.com users, raising concerns about stolen data and increased scam risks. Manitoba travelers are being urged to double-check accounts and be cautious of suspicious messages.
MB Concert goers you paid too much! You already knew that tho. Ticketmaster and LiveNation Guilty of MONOPOLY Behavior after a US jury finds Ticketmaster and Live Nation guilty of anti-competitive monopoly behaviour in the live events industry. The ruling could lead to major changes in ticket pricing, fees, and how concerts are sold.
Air New Zealand launches bunk bed sleep pods. Fly and sleep for $500. Air New Zealand is rolling out new bunk-style sleep pods aimed at improving long-haul comfort. The concept lets passengers book lie-flat or bunk sleeping options for a more restful flight experience.
Ikea makes an April Fool’s Joke REAL! IKEA has turned a past April Fool’s concept into an actual product, showing how some of its playful ideas are now becoming real retail items. It’s part of the company’s trend of testing viral, low-cost innovations.
https://www.tastingtable.com/2149187/ikea-april-fools-meatball-lollipop-real
Flames fan brought to tears. A Calgary Flames fan had an emotional reaction during a recent moment tied to the team, highlighting the deep passion and loyalty of hockey supporters. The clip quickly resonated with fans across social media.
12 “Unhealthy” Foods That Are Actually Perfectly Fine, According To A Dietitian. A dietitian has clarified that several foods often labeled “unhealthy” can be part of a balanced diet when eaten in moderation. The list challenges common nutrition myths around everyday foods.
https://www.buzzfeed.com/jenniferadams2/unhealthy-foods-actually-nutritious-dietitian-explains
Spirit Airlines Could Stop Flying This Week And Sell Off Its Assets. Spirit Airlines is facing severe financial pressure that could force it to halt operations and potentially liquidate assets. The situation raises uncertainty for passengers and the low-cost carrier’s future.
5 Best Pizza Chains in America, According to Chefs. Chefs have ranked the top pizza chains in the U.S. based on taste, consistency, and quality ingredients. The list highlights which major brands stand out in a crowded fast-food pizza market.
https://www.eatthis.com/best-pizza-chains-america-chefs
The Last Known Meals Of 10 Music Legends. From Michael Jackson to Elvis, the final meals of several famous music legends, showing the everyday foods many stars ate before their deaths. It reflects how even iconic celebrities often had simple, relatable last meals.
