Community Correspondents – Our Communities

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Correspondent Freda Glow, her son and his dog, Andi, recently travelled from Winnipeg to Florida. Canadians staying in the U.S. long-term should fill out the appropriate documents before travelling.

Border crossing concerns

Freda Glow 4 minute read Yesterday at 2:01 AM CST

We were getting close to the U.S. border crossing at Pembina, N.D., when my son confessed his concerns. We were on a road trip to Florida in his white Kia SUV along with his yellow Labrador retriever, Andi, who took the back seat as his living space.

Although my son had filed the proper G-325R alien registration documents for us online, and we had proof of Andi’s microchip and recent rabies vaccinations, he had recently read that some Canadian travellers had encountered difficulties at the border if they planned to stay in the U.S. for longer than 29 days and hadn’t completed the appropriate paperwork. We planned to remain from mid-October to mid March.

Much to our relief, the official at the port of entry only checked our passports and asked us half a dozen routine questions before he waved us on.

As we drove away, I requested a bathroom break. Always considerate, my son swerved the car and parked in a lot not too far from the main building. That’s when we ran into trouble.

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Raising funds for local programs

Dylon Martin 2 minute read Preview

Raising funds for local programs

Dylon Martin 2 minute read Yesterday at 2:01 AM CST

This December two fundraisers are being held at 180 Poplar Ave. to help with the growing programming offered at this community hub, which is home to the Chalmers Neighbourhood Renewal Board and the Elmwood-East Kildonan Active Living Centre.

On Saturday, Dec. 6 a holiday brunch at 1 p.m. will raise money for the active living centre. Tickets are $20. The ALC offers seniors programming to anyone aged 55 and up. The programs are low cost to no cost, with most fees waivable for those with limited income. Activities include curling, darts, billiards, community lunches and community brunches.

While it operates under the banner of the CNRC, the EEKALC has its own independent board to advise on and decide which programs to offer.

“(The ALC board) makes sure that all the programming and all the services offered … is tailored to the community of seniors that attend … There is never a program that wasn’t asked for by the seniors,” said Leilani Esteban-Villarba, CNRC executive director.

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Yesterday at 2:01 AM CST

Photo by Dylon Martin
Drag artist Jolean Groundbeef performed at an August 2025 drag brunch at the Elmwood-East Kildonan Active Living Centre (180 Poplar Ave.).

Winnipeg’s northwest booming with activity

Derek Dabee 2 minute read Preview

Winnipeg’s northwest booming with activity

Derek Dabee 2 minute read Yesterday at 2:01 AM CST

The restaurant and service industries are certainly booming in Winnipeg’s fast-growing northwest community.

Stacked Pancake & Breakfast House is one of the most recent restaurants to open, at 2211 McPhillips St. in Garden City, next door to Boston Pizza. Stacked is a popular Canadian chain based in Barrie, Ont., with over 130 outlets across the country. The new locations is one of three in Winnipeg, with the others aat 1600 Ness Ave. and 1600 Kenaston Blvd.

The McPhillips location features Stacked’s signature spacious seating, a menu listing over 90 items and great service. Henis and Yatri Patel are the owners of this location.

“Our customers top favourite items on the menu are waffles, eggs benedict, the breakfast specials and, of course, the Stacked recipe pancakes,” Henis told me.

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Yesterday at 2:01 AM CST

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City counciller Devi Sharma (Old Kildonan) was on hand for the grand opening of Stacked Pancake and Breakfast at 2221 McPhillips St., along with (front row, from left) Frank Genovese of Stacked; franchisees Yatri Patel and Henis Patel; as well as Darren Firman and Alex Shaw, both of Stacked.

‘Ain’t got no key…’

Shirley Kowalchuk 3 minute read Preview

‘Ain’t got no key…’

Shirley Kowalchuk 3 minute read Yesterday at 2:01 AM CST

For a while I worked as an information officer at Portage Place, back when it was owned by Cadillac Fairview. It was an interesting job. The mall, like every mall, was its own particular organism, composed of people with many different jobs making up systems that worked together in a related network. These systems included a security force, rental administration, marketing and publicity arms, a cleaning department, on-site maintenance and more.

In my role, I did a fair amount of publicity tasks and worked closely with security staff, radioing security officers when necessary since my post at the information booth was very central — in Edmonton Court, close to the old city hall clock tower. Portage Place, like downtown Winnipeg itself, had its challenges but for a while it also had its own vitality, which I believe was special because it was downtown. I have always missed this vibrancy.

The information centre was often the mall’s first connection to the visiting public. We fielded questions, sought help for people and dealt with anything the public brought to us.

Today the mall is undergoing renovations, and will become home to affordable housing, health-care services and community space. I was a bit taken aback when I first saw the visual evidence of change, with an oversized crane sitting right where the information centre once stood, and the multi-storey glass wall along Portage Avenue at Edmonton Court now gone. The sweeping balconies inside are now open to the elements, resembling what one might see in a dystopian doomsday movie – but I know the end result will be glorious.

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Yesterday at 2:01 AM CST

Photo by Shirley Kowalchuk
Renovations at Portage Place reminded correspondent Shirley Kowalchuk of when she worked in the information booth at the downtown shopping centre.

A bridge, not a destination

Cindy Gilroy 3 minute read Preview

A bridge, not a destination

Cindy Gilroy 3 minute read Yesterday at 2:01 AM CST

This past month, I had the opportunity to travel to Halifax to see first-hand how other Canadian cities are responding to the growing challenge of homelessness. Like Winnipeg, Halifax has struggled with rising housing costs, increasing mental health and addiction crises, and too many people being forced to live outdoors.

What stood out most to me was how the city has found ways to bring compassion and dignity into the lives of people who are unhoused.

We can and must learn from Halifax to build our own made-in-Winnipeg model. We know the number of people living unsheltered continues to grow, and that housing those struggling with trauma, mental health, and addictions requires more than simply providing a roof.

Imagine a designated, managed encampment site in Winnipeg — one with on-site management and a focus on helping people move indoors by connecting them to income support, addiction recovery programs, and mental health services. A place where people can begin to heal from trauma and break the cycle of being unhoused, all while having a clear time-frame and plan to transition into stable housing.

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Yesterday at 2:01 AM CST

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Coun. Cindy Gilroy (Daniel McIntyre) argues that a managed encampment model could help serve as a bridge, not a destination, on the unhoused population’s journey from the street to stable housing.

EVs not always practical on the Prairies

Branden Leslie 3 minute read Preview

EVs not always practical on the Prairies

Branden Leslie 3 minute read Yesterday at 2:01 AM CST

The Liberal government may have delayed its plans to ban the sale of new gas-powered vehicles, but it has not abandoned them. Canadians question this measure, and I believe they deserve answers. That is why Conservative MPs proposed a study of the electric vehicle mandate at the House of Commons environment committee.

Even though I support innovation and the growing interest in EVs, I have serious concerns about a one-size-fits-all mandate that doesn’t reflect the realities of rural communities like the constituency of Portage—Lisgar.

Let me be clear – this isn’t a debate about whether EVs have a place in Canada’s future. I believe they absolutely do. The issue is whether it’s fair or practical to force every Canadian to buy one.

Many parts of Manitoba still don’t even have consistent cell phone service, never mind access to EV charging stations. The idea that rural residents can seamlessly transition to electric vehicles simply doesn’t match the day-to-day reality for many families and farmers in southern Manitoba.

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Yesterday at 2:01 AM CST

Adobe Stock photo
While electric vehicles make sense in many situations for many people, their use should not be mandated for all Canadians – especially those for whom the infrastructure is lacking.

Rediscovering the benefits of the gym

Anne Hawe 3 minute read Preview

Rediscovering the benefits of the gym

Anne Hawe 3 minute read Yesterday at 2:01 AM CST

One, two, three more. Counting reps has become second nature now.

“I’m only one workout away from a better mood” is my new mantra. The popularity of the saying attests to the positive mood changes regular exercise brings.

Weightlifting was never part of the Jane Fonda Workouts I was addicted to years ago, although very light weights or even soup cans got an occasional mention. Skinny and toned was in during the ’80s and ’90s, when Fonda sold umpteen millions of her exercise videos. I think we all wanted to look like her back then. I know I did.

Nowadays, being strong is in and it isn’t just a passing fad. Numerous studies and doctors are touting the benefits of lifting weights for older women like me.

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Yesterday at 2:01 AM CST

Adobe Stock photo
Numerous studies and doctors tout the benefits of lifting weights for older women.

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Strengthening literacy together

Pamela Kolochuk 3 minute read Preview

Strengthening literacy together

Pamela Kolochuk 3 minute read Yesterday at 2:00 AM CST

The Manitoba Legislature recently passed Bill 225 – The Public Schools Amendment Act (Early Reading Screening), marking an important milestone for literacy in our province. The new law, passed Nov. 4, requires schools to screen students twice a year for reading difficulties; to inform parents and guardians of the results by the next report card; and to ensure that support plans are put into action when challenges are identified.

This amendment reinforces a belief shared by educators, families, and communities across Manitoba — that reading is foundational to every student’s success. With Manitoba literacy rates among the lowest in Canada, this proactive approach will help ensure all children receive the timely support they need to become confident readers.

At Louis Riel School Division, this commitment is already deeply embedded in our work. Through our multi-year strategic plan, we have made early literacy a cornerstone of student success.

Over the past several years, LRSD has built a strong framework to identify and support literacy development from the earliest grades. Key initiatives include:

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Yesterday at 2:00 AM CST

Safety takes on new meaning

Adrien Sala 2 minute read Preview

Safety takes on new meaning

Adrien Sala 2 minute read Yesterday at 2:00 AM CST

The strength of a community often shows in the way neighbours look out for one another. Here in St. James, that spirit is alive and well.

The South Valour Residents Association has spent years turning ideas into action. From tree-planting and community clean-ups, to outdoor gatherings that bring people together, the work of the SVRA shows how local efforts can make a big impact.

Now, after four years of collaboration with the University of Winnipeg’s urban and inner-city studies program, it is launching something truly special — the Community Safety Toolbox.

This new, online resource is built from lived experience, from lessons learned right here in our community, about what makes a neighbourhood safer, more connected, and more resilient. It’s a collection of practical tools that grew out of conversations on doorsteps and friendships formed through shared work. Folks can join the launch of the toolbox at Barn Hammer Brewing (595 Wall St.) on Saturday, Nov. 22, from 2 to 5 p.m.

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Yesterday at 2:00 AM CST

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St. James MLA Adrien Sala attended the annual general meeting of the South Valour Residents’ Association on Nov. 1.

Cautious optimism greets federal budget

Markus Chambers 3 minute read Preview

Cautious optimism greets federal budget

Markus Chambers 3 minute read Yesterday at 2:00 AM CST

On Nov. 4, the federal Liberal government unveiled its 2025 budget, focusing on what it termed “generational investments” to build a stronger Canadian economy in the face of global uncertainty.

For most municipalities across Canada, this budget has raised more questions than answers. With the uncertainty of trade relations with our neighbours to the south, the federal government has indicated its intent to establish new trading partners to ensure Canadian manufacturers remain competitive in the global markets. In the past, 70 per cent of Canadian manufactured goods were destined for the U.S. market. With the USMCA set for renegotiation in the next few months, Canada must recognize what stands before us over the next three years, if not longer.

Winnipeg’s mayor and councillors have been expressing the city’s funding priorities to local MPs and MLAs. The North End Winnipeg Pollution Control Centre (NEWPCC) is a critical need. While phase one and two have been cost-shared with the federal and provincial governments, funding for phase three remains questionable. The removal of phosphates and bio-nutrients to reduce impacts on Lake Winnipeg is an important component of renewal, but it does not end there. NEWPCC will run out of capacity to treat wastewater in a few years if not addressed now. This means the city will not be able to add new housing or expand treatment for industries if it wishes to continue meeting environmental requirements.

If the project is left unfunded by the two other levels of government, ratepayers will incur hefty water bills. Ottawa has announced $51 billion in infrastructure spending, so seemingly this project will fit into the scope of federal announcements.

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Yesterday at 2:00 AM CST

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Phase three of the North End Winnipeg Pollution Control Centre still requires federal and provincial funding if Winnipeg is to grow and continue to meet its environmental requirements.

Appreciation and respect for our elders

Jennifer Chen 3 minute read Preview

Appreciation and respect for our elders

Jennifer Chen 3 minute read Yesterday at 2:00 AM CST

As we embrace the holiday season and approach the end of the year, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible community-driven spirit we have here in Fort Richmond. I see that spirit especially in the wisdom and generosity of our elders. They are the ones who built the foundations of our city, province and nation, and they continue to support our community with humility.

I’ve seen this firsthand at Trinity United Church, where seniors not only gather for worship but also volunteer tirelessly — organizing food drives, tending the community garden, and creating a space of welcome for everyone. Their commitment inspired me to rise in the legislature and make a member’s statement celebrating Trinity United’s 60th anniversary. I also recognized the German-Canadian Congress in the legislature, whose leaders are elders who have preserved language and culture for and who about the celebrate the organization’s 40th anniversary and Christkindlmarkt. These statements came from a place of deep respect for the incredible contributions our seniors make every day.

This is why our NDP government created Manitoba’s first seniors advocate. This independent office will ensure older adults have a strong voice in decisions that affect them — from health care and housing to transportation and safety. Seniors will now have someone dedicated to listening, identifying gaps, and pushing for solutions so they can live with dignity and continue contributing to our province.

Right here in Fort Richmond, I’ve had the privilege of visiting Pembina Active Living 55-plus, located in Trinity United Church. PAL 55-plus is a place for older adults to find friendship, fitness, and purpose. I’ve joined their gatherings and seen the joy of people connecting through yoga, art classes, or simply sharing stories over coffee. Our government’s funding for PAL 55-plus will help them expand programs and reach more seniors, ensuring no one feels isolated. It’s about giving back to those who gave us so much.

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Yesterday at 2:00 AM CST

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Fort Richmond MLA Jennifer Chen presented members of Trinity United Church with a copy of the member’s statement she made in the legislature to celebrate the church’s 60th anniversary.

Remember to leave the world a better place

Leslie Pitchford 3 minute read Preview

Remember to leave the world a better place

Leslie Pitchford 3 minute read Yesterday at 2:00 AM CST

Remembrance Day just passed. It was day of reflection for those who laid their lives on the line for peace and a better life for us.

Depending on what generation you are, the meaning of Remembrance Day varies. As the daughter of a father who served in the Second World War, I have a direct line to the stories of war. My father has passed now, but I recall seeing his uniform in the closet, looking at photos of his chums in uniform. He came to Canada from Britain as part of the Royal Air Force and met my mother in New Brunswick. It’s amazing to think about how my parents met and why. I imagine their goodbyes each time he returned to his regiment. I’m proud to have their lineage.

My father wanted to be a gunner on a fighter plane, but couldn’t pass the vision test, so he joined the medical corps. I wonder if his experience subconsciously influenced my sister and me in our career choices, as we both chose to pursue careers in health care. My mother went to England in 1944 and worked as a secretary for one-and-a-half years, then returned to Canada, where her husband rejoined her in 1946.

There are so few veterans who hand out poppies now and, when I see them, I always make a point to stop and have a chat. They are so grateful that I am recognizing their service. I proudly wear my poppy in honour of my father and all the people who devoted their lives to the cause.

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Yesterday at 2:00 AM CST

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Correspondent Leslie Pitchford’s father, Reginald, served in the medical corps of the RAF during the Second World War.

A lasting legacy for Chad Posthumus

Tracy Schmidt 3 minute read Preview

A lasting legacy for Chad Posthumus

Tracy Schmidt 3 minute read Yesterday at 2:00 AM CST

As MLA for Rossmere, I am constantly inspired by the outstanding individuals in our community who not only serve as role models but also generously give back and make a difference. Basketball player Chad Posthumus was one of those people.

Friday, Oct. 10 was a special day for the Rossmere community, when families, teammates and friends came together to celebrate the grand opening of the Chad Posthumus Memorial Court at Gateway Recreation Centre.

Chad’s passing in November 2024 was a deep loss for many. He grew up here in Rossmere and graduated from River East Collegiate, which was where he became known in basketball circles as “the Beast from River East.” It was on our local courts, including those at Gateway Recreation Centre, that he first found his love for basketball.

Chad’s love for the game took him far. He played across Canada and around the world, representing our country on the men’s national 3x3 Team. In 2023, he became the first player signed by the Winnipeg Sea Bears and proudly served as their captain. He led with the heart, integrity and dedication that represent the very best of Rossmere.

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Yesterday at 2:00 AM CST

Supplied photo
Rossmere MLA Tracy Schmidt and the late Chad Posthumus (at right) crossed paths at a few basketball-related events.

The many sides of Dr. Wilbert Chancy

Beatrice Watson 5 minute read Preview

The many sides of Dr. Wilbert Chancy

Beatrice Watson 5 minute read Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025

If you belong to the Catholic Church community, you might have heard of Dr. Wilbert Chancy’s musical talent. Most of his activities in Winnipeg were in and around the church. The church is big part of his identity, and he almost became a priest.

Born and raised in Haiti, Dr. Chancy, now 90 years old, entered the seminary at age 12 on the track to become a secular priest, the kind who takes only the vows of chastity.

It took Dr. Chancy a long time to realize that a priestly life was not for him. It was a difficult decision to arrive at through serious soul-searching — not so much for him as for his family. Being a member of the priestly class in Haiti was a feather in a family’s cap. A Catholic priest was celebrated and respected in the community.

After completing high school in 1955, he entered the Congregation of the Holy Spirit, an order specially devoted to the most abandoned, and worked in Africa. However, he left the order in 1962 and returedn to Haiti, where he was offered a teaching position at the Petit-Séminaire College Saint-Martial in Port au Prince. A year later, he enrolled in philosophy at the University of Caen in France. Dr. Chancy met and married Adeline, also of Haitian descent, in 1966 and they were blessed further in 1968, when their first child, Claude, was born in Paris. In 1970, Claude was joined by his sister Myriam, who was born in Haiti. That same year Wilbert and Adeline emigrated from France to Canada. They both taught at the Cégep Lévis-Lauzon, south of Quebec City.

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Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025

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Envitasyon: A Haitian Lyric is the latest album by 90-year-old singer and pianist Wilbert Chancy.

Safe communities and the rule of law

Andrew Braga 3 minute read Preview

Safe communities and the rule of law

Andrew Braga 3 minute read Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025

Is it ever the case that simple crime prevention tactics can overstep the boundaries of what should be considered acceptable?

Are they justified if they’re successful, even if they push the boundaries of the rule of law?

These are fair questions to ask in any country that abides by the principle. People obviously have the right to feel safe in their communities, and to have their property protected from theft. But citizens should also have the right to protections against unchecked power.

Some actions are uncontroversial. People who regularly take the bus have probably noticed the increase in community safety officers patrolling specific routes to “remind” passengers that transit is a paid service. Those who try to board without paying are refused a ride.

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Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025

File photo
Bait Bike stickers were displayed on bicycle racks at the Millennium Library in 2018.

Examining Transit changes in west Winnipeg

Fred Morris 3 minute read Preview

Examining Transit changes in west Winnipeg

Fred Morris 3 minute read Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025

A petition being circulated to restore Portage Avenue transit service to the front doors of the Grace Hospital and Assiniboine Clinic has gathered 985 signatures, including that of Coun. Sherri Rollins (Fort Rouge-East Fort Garry).

As winter approaches, immediate restoration of this service is essential.

Let us look at some of the other St. James and West End problems created by Winnipeg Transit’s new system.

The D12 Ellice, D13 Sargent, and D15 Ness routes provide service downtown. However, none of these routes actually run through downtown on Portage Avenue. The D12 and D13 cross Portage at Garry Street. The D15 leaves Portage in the 800 block and travels down Broadway to Main Street, forcing riders to either walk from Broadway or transfer to another bus to get to events at the Canada Life Centre. In the 21-year history of the downtown arena, I have always thought that transit service to the front door of the venue from most parts of Winnipeg was a real positive. Why has it been scaled back?

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Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025

November 20, 2025