Boxing fans in Brandon are gearing up for an adrenaline-filled evening as the “Spring Showdown” takes over the Victoria Inn Hotel & Convention Centre on Saturday, May 9. Hosted by the Brandon Fitness Combat Academy, the highly anticipated event promises a showcase of local talent, fierce competition, and an electric atmosphere. Set inside the Vic Inn’s Imperial Ballroom, the card will feature a lineup of rising prospects and hometown fighters, all eager to make their mark in front of a passionate crowd. Organizers say fans can expect explosive matchups and high-level amateur boxing throughout the night, highlighting the strength and depth of the region’s combat sports scene. Doors will open at 5 p.m., with the first bout scheduled for 6 p.m. Early Bird tickets are available for $30 until April 24, with general admission priced at $35 at the door. For those looking for a more premium experience, private tables are also available. The Spring Showdown not only offers a thrilling night of action but also serves as an opportunity for the community to rally behind local athletes as they step into the ring. Tickets can be purchased in person at Peak Performance or by calling 204-727-7016. With anticipation building, May 9 is shaping up to be a must-see night for boxing fans across Brandon and beyond

A massive jackpot win has created excitement across Brandon, as a lucky participant (Donna S)  in the Brandon Seniors for Seniors “Smack the Jack” fundraiser has taken home a life-changing prize of $1,030,530.00. The recent draw marked the dramatic conclusion of the popular weekly raffle, which has steadily grown in popularity throughout the region. The game, similar in style to “Chase the Ace,” sees participants purchase tickets for a chance to select an envelope containing the elusive Jack of Spades. If found, the winner claims the ever-growing progressive jackpot. The jackpot had been building for months, fueled by strong community support and consistent ticket sales. Each week that the Jack of Spades remained hidden, the prize pool continued to climb—ultimately surpassing the one-million-dollar mark. “Smack the Jack” is operated by Brandon Seniors for Seniors, with proceeds supporting programs, services, and initiatives for seniors in the community. A portion of every ticket sold contributes directly to enhancing quality of life for older adults in Brandon and surrounding areas. With this latest win, organizers are celebrating both the lucky winner and the overwhelming support from the community that made the historic jackpot possible. As one chapter closes, many are already looking ahead to the next round of “Smack the Jack,” where the excitement—and the jackpot—will begin to build once again starting August.    

The new up and coming Brandon Pickleball Club and facility is making strides to have people be able to come May 5th for a walk through to see how the project is coming along. Thanks - Joel Cardinal-Schultz for the photos More information https://www.facebook.com/groups/1773779542683825/

Manitoba Labour and Immigration is notifying Manitobans the provincial minimum wage will increase by 40 cents to $16.40, effective Oct. 1. Updated annually, Manitoba’s minimum wage is regulated through the Employment Standards Code. This year’s increase of 40 cents per hour will raise the minimum wage to $16.40 from $16. The adjustment reflects Manitoba’s 2025 inflation rate, rounded up to the nearest five cents. For more information on the minimum wage and other employment standards, visit: www.gov.mb.ca/labour/standards.

The Manitoba government is encouraging Manitobans to take advantage of free fishing and free entry to provincial parks during spring break March 27 to April 5, Natural Resources and Indigenous Futures Minister Ian Bushie announced today. “Affordability matters, and we want to ensure every Manitoban can enjoy the incredible lakes, forests and landscapes our province is known for,” said Bushie. “Free fishing and free park access open the door for more families to explore the outdoors together this spring break.” From March 27 to April 5, Manitobans and visitors can fish without an angling licence in the province. Anglers will still be required to follow all possession limits and size restrictions, as well as all other rules and regulations including regulations that apply to specific waters. Federal angling licences will still be required in national parks. Anglers are reminded to exercise caution when fishing on ice and should check conditions before heading out to ensure a safe and enjoyable ice fishing experience. Manitobans and visitors can also visit all provincial parks free of charge during spring break. “Spring break is a perfect time to enjoy Manitoba’s outdoors and removing the cost barrier helps more people do just that,” said Bushie. “I encourage Manitobans to explore our parks, try fishing, and enjoy the beauty of our province while always staying safe and checking ice conditions before heading out.” Entry to provincial parks will continue to be free throughout April. For more information on angling, visit https://manitoba.ca/nrnd/fish-wildlife/fish/. For more information on Manitoba’s provincial parks, visit www.manitobaparks.com.