Leons Headlines Oct 2: Manitoba’s minimum wage increased by 50 cents to $15.80 Tuesday, raising concerns among small businesses about price hikes & inflationary pressure, according to CFIB. 69% of MB small business members said that they have had to increase prices because of minimum wage increases.
-Brandon SD submitted a request in May for roof replacements at 10 schools, but only École Harrison’s $3M project, expected to be completed by October, has been approved so far.
-Prescription birth control is now free for Manitobans, with over 60 products, including the pill and IUDs, covered under the province’s pharmacare program starting Tuesday.
-Urgent repairs on Park Avenue’s damaged sewer sections will begin October 3rd, with a full road closure from 15th to 17th Street starting October 8th, lasting about a week, and traffic detoured to College Avenue.
-MB had record heat in September, with Brandon averaging 16.7 degrees, just below the 2009 record of 16.8, while Winnipeg and Thompson also set heat records.
-MB Hydro reported a $157 million loss for 2023/24, largely due to drought impacting water reservoirs and power exports.
-Canadian small and medium-sized businesses will receive $2.5B in carbon refunds from Ottawa in December, based on province and employee count.
-US East Coast dockworkers’ strike is expected to disrupt supply chain for foods like bananas & pineapples, raise prices, and impact retail & automobiles, with some importers already facing delays and additional shipping surcharges.
-Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium celebrated its 55th anniversary Tuesday night with a special dinner & entertainment, celebrating the facility’s opening 1969 opening.
What a VP Debate! Tim Walz and JD Vance were surprisingly civil despite a contentious campaign. The most tense moment came when Vance, who opposed certifying the 2020 election, dodged a question about challenging this year’s results if Trump loses. But in the end, they agreed on a few things and even were civil. What a change from the Presidential debate.
Inflation on the run? Not so fast. Prices may be on the way up thanks to a US Strike. The U.S. East Coast dockworkers’ strike is expected to cause shortages or price increases on goods, particularly produce, cars, and electronics, with Canadian consumers likely feeling the effects soon. While some importers are already facing delays, others anticipate only minor disruptions as they rely on unaffected ports.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/business/us-port-strike-canadian-impact-1.7339251
Cheap Food at the Big Game? The Utah Hockey Club’s owners have reduced concession prices at home games in response to fan feedback, with popcorn, nachos, hot dogs, and ice cream now costing $3 each, and bottled water priced at $2. The announcement has been well-received on social media, with fans praising the initiative and encouraging other teams to follow suit.
Celebrity Quiz. Travis Kelce is stepping into the hosting spotlight with his new game show, Are You Smarter Than a Celebrity?, where contestants answer trivia for cash. The trailer promises plenty of laughs and nostalgia for schoolyard knowledge!
Sky Dining. “Dinner in the Sky” is the latest trend where diners enjoy meals suspended high above the ground, even in thunderstorms. This thrilling dining experience is taking tourism to new heights!
Smashed Sales. A smashed Taylor Swift guitar, famously destroyed by a fan, is up for sale on eBay after being auctioned for $4,000. This viral relic is sure to attract bidders looking for a unique piece of music history! But was it signed by Taylor or not? Apparently that’s up for debate.
https://www.tmz.com/2024/10/01/taylor-swift-smashed-guitar-for-sale-ebay
Costume Countdown. With Halloween just around the corner, searches for costumes are soaring by 85%. Experts reveal the top eight trending costumes for 2024, perfect for spooktacular celebrations!
https://www.boredpanda.com/experts-reveal-top-8-halloween-costumes-trends-for-2024
Marathon Goat. A goat hilariously joined a Newfoundland marathon and even won a medal, proving that sometimes, it’s just about having fun! This unexpected runner stole the show and our hearts!
Soda Surprise. One dad is making Halloween unforgettable by giving kids 2L bottles of soda every year! This sweet gesture is sure to make him the most popular house on the block!
