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Federal party leaders hit the hustings Friday with election day fast approaching, as Mark Carney of the Liberals focused on U.S. tariff threats in a steel town and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre campaigned on his anti-crime platform in Saskatoon.

Canadians cast ballots to choose their next government on Monday.

The Liberals are widely seen to be leading in the polls, with the Conservatives in second place and the Bloc Québécois, NDP and Greens trailing behind.

Canadians scattered among the tens of thousands in and around St. Peter's Square for the funeral of Pope Francis described the ceremony as profoundly beautiful. 

While dignitaries such as Gov.-Gen. Mary Simon were seated near the front of the square, members of the general public were positioned farther back or gathered in the streets of Rome to watch on large screens.

Falguni Debnath says being at the back of the square didn't dampen the effect of the familiar ritual.

Manitoba is adding three new waterbombers to its firefighting fleet as part of efforts to better respond to wildfires across the province.

Premier Wab Kinew and Natural Resources Minister Ian Bushie announced Wednesday that the province will purchase three DHC Canadair-515 Firefighter aircraft. The first aircraft is expected to be delivered in time for the 2031 fire season, with the other two arriving in 2032.

As temperatures in Winnipeg begin to rise, The Forks announced plans to gear up for spring with the opening of the outdoor Common on April 26. 

In a news release, The Forks said, "The hours and selection at the outdoor Common will be intermittent during the first few weeks. Visitors are welcome to purchase drinks at the indoor Common and bring them to the outdoor patio."

The Spring Loading fundraising campaign also launched this week. The campaign runs until the end of spring, June 20, to raise funds and awareness for The Forks Foundation. 

Canadians will head to the ballot boxes on April 28 to cast their votes in the 2025 federal election.  

Before Manitobans make their decisions, Classic 107 is focusing in on what each of the parties that represent the province on Parliament Hill are saying about how their party will handle the arts and culture file.  

Pope Francis and the Blessing of the Violino del Mare

The death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, has left a global outpouring of tributes for the pontiff who led the Catholic Church since 2013. One of the most touching moments during his papacy occurred in February 2022, when he blessed a violin made from the wood of migrant boats, a poignant symbol of the struggles and resilience of refugees.

Winnipeg Wind Ensemble explores city sounds and rural charm in 'Town and Country' concert 

Dozens of people lined up Thursday night to air opposition to and support for Manitoba's plan to add gender expression to the human rights code — a move that would include protections for people to be called by their preferred pronouns.

Derek deVries, pastor at Park City Gospel Church in Winnipeg, said the NDP government's bill would force Christians to go against their beliefs.

"This (proposed) law forbids Christians from following Christ's example. It requires speech he would not permit," deVries told a legislature committee.

This weekend, the Children's Hospital Book Market will be set up at St. Vital Centre to celebrate their 65th annual event. 

This year's book market, in support of the Children's Hospital in Winnipeg, is their biggest event to date. 

"I have been involved with the Children's Hospital Book Market for over 33 years," says volunteer Carol Irving. "I've been the volunteer coordinator since 2004. We started in 1961, so we are in our 65th year now."

Manitoba's energy regulator has approved higher natural gas prices.

The Public Utilities Board says rates for a typical residential customer will rise 12.4 per cent, or about $73 a year, starting May 1.

The board says the increase is due to several market factors, including reduced natural gas storage levels in North America following a colder winter.

Higher demand for liquefied natural gas was also cited.

Gas rates are reviewed regularly and the next review is slated for August.