Discussions

What in your opinion was the top local news story of 2008? and why? (not to be confused with the top thread of 2008, which is specific to eBrandon threads on any topic... and which of those threads you enjoyed the most)  
 
There are no doubt others, but some that come to mind.. please also feel free to add.  
 
Greyhound bus tragedy  
National media converged on Brandon after one of the most horrific murders to happen in Manitoba  
 
Brandon awarded 2010 Memorial Cup  
The Western Hockey League/Canadian Hockey League award host rights to one of the most prestigious hockey tournaments in the world to Brandon for May 2010.  
 
Wheat Kings wonderkids Schenn/Glennie  
While this story started in late 2007, it was 2008 where the country started to take notice of these two rare gems we currently have the priviledge of watching play in our city.  
 
Casino - Plebiscite & RM Elton Announcement  
A multi-part story that began in January with news that the Province would like a casino established in the Brandon area. The ensuing March plebiscite had Brandon talking like few votes can. Later in the year it was unveiled that a casino is being planned in the RM of Elton, right on Brandon's doorstep.  
 
Merv Tweed wins Brandon-Souris by landslide  
Brandon's reputation as a Conservative riding in Federal elections was further re-enforced as incumbent Merv Tweed handily wins Brandon-Souris in October's election.  
 
Merv Tweed comes up just short for House Speaker  
Tweed would make a serious run to become Speaker of the House in Ottawa, only to lose out to the incumbent in the very final stages of voting.  
 
BU Strike  
University students in Brandon were forced to sit on the sidelines while school administration and teachers settled their differences. Picketers became an all-too-familiar sight on the 18th street drive.  
 
Ongoing firehall/police station debate  
Ongoing discussion of where to locate each new facility and how much to budget dominated talk amongst Brandonites at various times throughout 2008. While much of this story has yet to be written, we appear well on our way to both being built.  
 
Train derailment  
On Oct 22 a train carrying dangerous anhydrous ammonia would derail East of 1st street, causing a temporary lockdown of Brandon's industrial park. Luckily the proper authorities were able to correct what could have been a much more serious situation.  
 
Hutterite colony motions  
Several residents of Hillside Hutterite Colony file motions pertaining to their status and treatment as workers on the colony.  
 
Business layoffs  
Major employers in Brandon including Shape Foods, Convergys and Inventronics would undertake massive staff layoffs, leaving many Brandonites looking for replacement work.