The Wrap: Housing affordability, local eclipse-watching, New Canadians vlogging, an inspirational basketball player, and Guilt

Good evening. Here’s a look at what our newsroom has been working on today:

'It’s very hard to find a place here'

More than half of Manitobans say affordability is their primary housing concern.

Almost nine of 10 Manitobans said they are either very or somewhat concerned about affordability. Women, younger adults and those with household incomes of less than $50,000 were most concerned.

The polling comes at a time when the country is the midst of a housing crisis.

Kevin Rollason looks at the issue and what’s being done about it.

Kevin Rollason:

Housing issues hammered home

Most Manitobans concerned about affordability as governments promise more shovels in ground with relaxed zoning rules Read More

'You can cause irreparable damage to your eyes'

Manitobans will be able to view a partial solar eclipse this coming Monday, April 8, when the moon passes in front of the sun, casting its shadow onto the earth.

Over the moon about the eclipse? Our Nadya Pankiw tells you what you need to know to prepare for the spectacle.

Nadya Pankiw:

How to watch Monday’s solar eclipse in Winnipeg

Like your mama always said, don't stare directly at the sun Read More

'I’m just having fun'

A growing number of newcomers to Canada have taken to social media to offer a sneak peek into their new lives, break down cultural barriers and share first-time experiences.

Their videos target audiences planning to come to Canada but unfamiliar with the country’s quirks and traditions, as well as people back home who may never experience “Canadian life.”

Many have thousands of followers on YouTube and social media. Tahira Khan takes a look.

Tahira Khan:

Transcultural connections

New Canadians are tapping into vlogging as a means of sharing the challenges and joys of building a life in another country Read More

'We are kind of living a dream'

Abby Sweeny grew up in a hockey-obsessed family on the Pimicikamak Cree Nation in Thompson.

It seemed natural Sweeny would start out as a hockey player, but when her family moved to Winnipeg, the then 12-years old found her true calling on the basketball court.

Mike Sawatzky profiles Sweeny, now a a highly touted basketball recruit.

Mike Sawatzky:

Basketball brings out the best in Sweeny

Wesmen recruit maintains close ties to First Nations communities hundreds of kilometres away Read More

'A raccoon trapped in a cage in her chest'

Diane Flacks had it all. She had a wife and two boys, a “Grey Gardens-gorgeous” life they’d built together.

And then she blew it all up, ending a 20-year relationship after falling in love with a younger woman, her “racehorse.”

In Guilt: A Love Story, now on at the Tom Hendry Warehouse, Flacks dances, flails, crawls and swims her way through her relationship with guilt, particularly as a mother.

Jen Zoratti reviews the performance.

Jen Zoratti:

Shame-full

One-woman show vulnerable, humorous examination of emotions after blowing up life Read More