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Community Correspondents

Community Correspondents

Supplied photo McPhillips MLA JD Devgan joined staff at the Seven Oaks Hospital at the re-opening of Dialysis Unit 1.

Building through Budget 2026

JD Devgan 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 13, 2026

As your MLA for McPhillips, I continue to advocate for investments that make life more affordable, strengthen our economy, and support families across our community.

That’s why I recently met with Premier Wab Kinew in the constituency near the Aurora community to discuss the concerns I hear from you every day. I also recently attended the reopening of Dialysis Unit 1 at Seven Oaks General Hospital, which had been closed for more than five months because to significant flood damage caused by a broken water main. It was truly rewarding to celebrate the dedicated team whose hard work made its return possible.

On April 29, I was pleased to attend the library construction kickoff at Garden City Shopping Centre for the Mike O’Shaughnessy Library – an important and much-needed addition for the McPhillips community.

As we continue building a stronger Manitoba, I’m proud to share some of the highlights from Budget 2026 and what they mean for you and your family.

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Community Correspondents

Making care more accessible in The Maples

Mintu Sandhu 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 13, 2026

As we head into the summer, many families in our community are looking forward to spending time outdoors and making the most of warmer weather. At the same time, our NDP government knows that health concerns don’t take the season off.

That is why I want to share an important new tool that is helping Manitobans get the care they need when they need it. Medinav is a simple and convenient way to skip the emergency room for non-emergency concerns and book an appointment with a healthcare provider.

Using Medinav is quick and straightforward. Here is how you can sign up and book an appointment:

• Visit Medinav.ca and create an account.

Community Correspondents

Supplied photo Kevin Lamoureux, MP for Winnipeg North, feels passionately that the health-care system should be re-organized.

Thoughts on reorganizing health care

Kevin Lamoureux 3 minute read Preview

Thoughts on reorganizing health care

Kevin Lamoureux 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 13, 2026

The greatest threat to health care today is not necessarily finances, but rather not recognizing the need to re-organize and manage the changes that are necessary to preserve the type of quality public health-care system that Canadians want and deserve.

The five fundamental principles of the Canada Health Act require billions of dollars in health transfers every year to provinces and guarantee that the federal government remains involved in our national health-care system – but it is provincial governments that are ultimately responsible for the administration of our health-care system.

I would like to be able to make a couple of observations based on my years of being an MLA in the Manitoba legislature, my current role as a member of Parliament and my recent personal experience of having gone to emergency at Grace Hospital.

I went to the Grace because Seven Oaks Hospital does not have an emergency department – it is classified as an urgent care centre. Over the years, we have seen emergency services disappear from Seven Oaks. Now it deals with things like minor injuries, infections, cuts and sprains. What a shame.

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Wednesday, May. 13, 2026

Community Correspondents

Supplied photo MLA Tyler Blashko recently shared tokens of appreciation with the early childhood educators in Lagimodière.

A week of connection

Tyler Blashko 3 minute read Preview

A week of connection

Tyler Blashko 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 13, 2026

Happy May Lagimodière!

Passing bills in the legislature is a vital responsibility, but the heart of my work as your MLA beats within the sidewalks, homes, and shared spaces of Lagimodière. Constituency week is a dedicated time to step away from the energy of the chamber to meet you exactly where life happens – in the places you call home. This provides a unique opportunity for the kind of unhurried, meaningful, and active presence that serves as the bedrock foundation of my public service.

This past constituency week, from April 27 to May 1, was particularly special as it coincided with Early Childhood Educator Week. To show our deep appreciation, our team made it a priority to visit all seven child-care centres across our constituency. It was a genuine joy to deliver fresh flowers to these hardworking professionals, but the real highlight was being able to share a few moments with educators at each centre, affirming their work and sharing my personal thanks for their dedication to caring for our communities’ youngest learners. Our government remains firmly committed to supporting this sector through vital initiatives like increased wages and educational pathways for folks looking to join the sector, and expanding the number of high-quality, affordable child-care spaces available for Manitoban families.

I also spent several mornings visiting our neighbours in 55-plus buildings and apartment complexes, bringing along coffee and doughnuts to help spark conversation. These visits are some of my favorite moments because they allow us to discuss the issues that affect your daily lives in a relaxed setting. We focused our talks on significant health-care updates, specifically the newly announced menopause clinic, and the introduction of Manitoba’s first independent seniors’ advocate – a vital role that will champion the rights and needs of older adults. We also explored how digital tools such as Q-Doc and Medinav are being integrated to help residents navigate health services and access care more conveniently from their own homes.

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Wednesday, May. 13, 2026

Community Correspondents

Supplied photo Justice Minister Matt Wiebe, MLA for Concordia (at far right), joined fellow MLAs (from left) Jamie Moses, Tyler Blashko and Nellie Kennedy at the announcement that the PST will be removed from groceries in Manitoba beginning July 1.

Practical steps to lower costs for Manitobans

Matt Wiebe 3 minute read Preview

Practical steps to lower costs for Manitobans

Matt Wiebe 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 13, 2026

As Manitobans continue to navigate rising costs, our government remains focused on what matters: making life more affordable. Pressures are coming from beyond our borders – global instability, Trump’s tariffs and his conflict in the Middle East have driven up fuel and transportation costs, which affects the prices of everyday things. Those impacts are being felt in Manitoba.

The most direct step we’ve taken is removing the provincial sales tax from groceries, starting July 1. Food is a necessity and families shouldn’t pay extra tax on essentials. It’s a simple change, but one that makes a difference for households across our province.

At the same time, we know affordability is more than groceries. It’s about the everyday costs such as rent, utilities, housing, and making sure families feel relief where it matters. That’s why we’re increasing the homeowners affordability tax credit and the renters affordability tax credit, which puts money back into the pockets of Manitobans.

We are taking action to crack down on predatory pricing and increase competition in the grocery sector. Predatory pricing is when corporate monopolies drop prices to push out smaller competitors, then raise them once there’s less competition. Our government passed legislation to prevent new restrictive covenants. We’ve started bringing legal cases forward to remove these property controls at locations across Manitoba. By doing this, we are opening the door for competition, more local choices, and lower prices for families.

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Wednesday, May. 13, 2026

Community Correspondents

Supplied photo Darren Lillie also spoke at the launch of More Than You Give, and later signed copies of his book, All Eyes on Me.

Upholding and celebrating community

Janine LeGal 4 minute read Preview

Upholding and celebrating community

Janine LeGal 4 minute read Wednesday, May. 13, 2026

It wasn’t a crowd of people, it was a community, just the way Carina Blumgrund wanted it to be.

A book launch celebrating the release of More Than You Give, a collection of essays on community and generosity, was held at Sturgeon Heights Community Centre on a Sunday night in early May. The event brought in a room full of community helpers, changemakers, and heart workers, dedicated to spreading love, giving hope, and making the world a little brighter.

There were guest speakers from community organizations, including a compelling presentation by community outreach worker Mitch Bourbonniere about why helping matters. Singer/songwriter Karen Hammarstrand performed a moving song she had written, called Strangers and Angels. Lorraine Clements (a.k.a. Cedar) from Changemaker 231 Inc. spoke with passion about the 231 calls for justice from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, with a reminder that much work still needs to be done, encouraging all Canadians to help hold all governments accountable for acting on the calls for justice, and to implement them according to the principles set out.

There were refreshments donated by Community Helpers Unite. Inspirational speaker and gang prevention specialist Vincent Lillie was present with his book All Eyes on Me, a story of addiction, recovery and hope. Local writer Heather Emberley was on hand with her children’s book Who Hid the Raisin Bread? with proceeds going to the Bear Clan.

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Wednesday, May. 13, 2026

Community Correspondents

Photo by Michael W. Thiessen Panelists (from left) Dakotah Nadeau, Frances Ravinsky, Hilda Mann, Doreen Pasap, Carolina Meneses Zamora and Jennifer Roulette, spoke after the video screenings of their stories at On the Road to Reconciliation: A Story Exchangeon May 5.

Sharing our stories brings us together

Heather Emberley 3 minute read Preview

Sharing our stories brings us together

Heather Emberley 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 13, 2026

Sharing stories can be a link to how people understand the word reconciliation.

Frances Ravinsky, a clinical family therapist and co-founder of Community Works Manitoba, a not-for-profit community development and training organization based in Winnipeg, hosted a screening of six video stories called On the Road to Reconciliation: A Story Exchange, on May 5 at Cinematheque in front of a full house.

True to her philosophy that, “our stories are our teachings and healing,” and that our shared human experiences teach understanding of our differences, Ravinsky gathered videos from six storytellers — three Indigenous and three non-Indigenous — to share their wisdom. She believes that “wisdom informs actions,” and for the past 30 years her work has included uniting urban social services agencies and First Nations communities. She facilitates healing, wellness and economic initiatives to provide tools to facilitate individual and collective growth and says that “all our stories matter for healing on Turtle Island and are essential for change.”

Hilda Mann helped lead the panel discussion after the film screening, using her interview skills from her work in Winnipeg inner-city social services. Her empathy for the stories shared helped move everyone present on the long road to healing.

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Wednesday, May. 13, 2026

Community Correspondents

Photo by Adriano Magnifico Louis Riel Arts and Technology Centre broadcast media program grads (from left) Graham Parsons, Zoe Krzuk, Johnathan Schneider, and Jamie Wiebe visited current students to share their experiences at the recent Winter Olympics in Italy.

Louis Riel Olympians share their wisdom

Adriano Magnifico 3 minute read Preview

Louis Riel Olympians share their wisdom

Adriano Magnifico 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 13, 2026

The Louis Riel Arts and Technology Centre sent four of its students to the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympic Winter Games, but not for the reason you may think.

They weren’t athletes. They are broadcast media program graduates who helped broadcast Olympic curling to the world.

The four alumni recently returned to their alma mater to share their special experience with current BMP students.

They worked long days during the men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles curling competitions, which ran from Feb. 4 to 22 at the Stadio Olimpico del Curling di Cortina d’Ampezzo, a venue built just for the games.

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Wednesday, May. 13, 2026

Community Correspondents

Faith in challenging times

Sonya Braun 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 13, 2026

What do you do when the bottom drops out of your world?

Like my photographer husband and other instructors at RRC Polytech who are suddenly without a job. Or my friend whose mother received a cancer diagnosis. Or the one who had a miscarriage.

We all know people whose lives have been shaken. Maybe it’s you. What do you do? What should we do?

The first thing is that no one should go through these situations alone. We need to share our burdens and show care for those in need. It may take courage to not isolate oneself in shame or withdraw in pain. As friends, even if we don’t know what to say, just being there for someone in need can be so comforting.

Community Correspondents

Supplied photo Fort Richmond MLA Jennifer Chen is pictured with Patrol Sgt. Robin Kipling at the Winnipeg Police Service’s West District station.

Building a safer Fort Richmond together

Jennifer Chen 3 minute read Preview

Building a safer Fort Richmond together

Jennifer Chen 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 6, 2026

As spring settles in Fort Richmond, I am reminded of the incredible community-driven spirit that defines our neighbourhood. To serve you effectively, I believe in seeing the vital work happening on our streets firsthand. With National Police Week approaching from May 10 to 16, I recently spent an evening with the dedicated officers of the West District station for a patrol ride-along.

The experience began at the station, where I watched the seamless co-ordination required to manage the safety of our growing community. While on patrol, the officers responded to calls from local businesses. At one such call to a 7-Eleven, they ensured the situation was safe and provided staff with practical guidance on how to respond to similar incidents in the future. These interactions give officers the opportunity to directly support entrepreneurs by addressing safety concerns and sharing preventative strategies, while also strengthening the trust that helps keep our local economy resilient.

During the ride, I observed officers responding to a range of urgent calls with remarkable composure. In one instance, they handled a sensitive residential matter with a level of empathy and patience that truly showcased their professionalism. Their ability to switch instantly from high-alert navigation to calm, expert judgment is a testament to the training and character of the Winnipeg Police Service. Witnessing these interactions has transformed my understanding of the diverse roles our officers must inhabit, revealing that they are often called upon to be mediators, supporters, and protectors all within a single shift

I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the Winnipeg Police Association – specifically president Cory Wiles and vice-president Phil Neyron – for their leadership and support. I am also deeply appreciative of Winnipeg Police Service Insp. Max Waddell and Patrol Sgt. Robin Kipling for making this informative and memorable experience possible. Their bravery and dedication ensure that whether you are relaxing in our beautiful local parks or spending a quiet evening at home with your family, you can do so with a sense of security.

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Wednesday, May. 6, 2026

Community Correspondents

Supplied photo St. James MLA Adrien Sala, the provincial finance minister, is pictured at a budget consultation.

Putting affordability and community first

Adrien Sala 3 minute read Preview

Putting affordability and community first

Adrien Sala 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 6, 2026

Over the past few months, our government has continued to focus on what matters most to Manitobans – making life more affordable, strengthening our communities, and showing up for one another, right here in St. James and across our province.

One of the ways we’ve done that locally is by expanding access to community tax clinics. In St. James, we were proud to see the number of residents accessing these services double this year. That means more individuals and families in our neighbourhood are getting the support they need to file their taxes, access important benefits, and put money back in their pockets. At a time when affordability remains a top concern, these clinics are making a real difference – ensuring people receive the support they’re entitled to and helping strengthen financial stability at the household level.

Building on that commitment, Budget 2026 delivered meaningful relief for Manitobans, including families here in St. James. A key measure includes removing the provincial sales tax (PST) from all groceries in the grocery store – helping reduce costs on everyday essentials. This is about making life more affordable at the checkout line and ensuring families can keep more of their hard-earned money. Our approach is focused on practical solutions that make a tangible difference in people’s daily lives.

As we look ahead, we’re excited to celebrate an important milestone for many young people in our community – graduation season. Schools across St. James will soon be marking the achievements of students who have worked hard to reach this moment. These celebrations are a testament not only to students’ dedication, but also to the families, educators, and school staff who have supported them along the way. We’re proud of our graduates and look forward to seeing the many ways they will continue to contribute to our community.

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Wednesday, May. 6, 2026

Community Correspondents

Mike Deal / Free Press A sidewalk cleaner works in a city neighbourhood late last month. Homeowners are advised to check the Know Your Zone app to learn when their streets will be cleaned.

Spring cleanup in Winnipeg

Markus Chambers 2 minute read Preview

Spring cleanup in Winnipeg

Markus Chambers 2 minute read Wednesday, May. 6, 2026

As spring slowly emerges, the City of Winnipeg kicks into high gear with its annual spring cleanup. This city-wide effort is essential for removing winter’s accumulation of sand, gravel, and debris from streets, sidewalks, and active transportation paths. To ensure a smooth and efficient process, Winnipeg residents are urged to do their part – both on their own properties and by staying informed about the city’s schedule.

The first step for every Winnipegger is to download and use the Know Your Zone app. This free tool allows residents to monitor exactly when their neighbourhoods are scheduled for mechanical street cleaning. By receiving push notifications for their designated zones, citizens can ensure parked vehicles are moved off the street on cleaning days – avoiding tickets and helping crews do a thorough job. The scale of this operation is immense – the city deploys over 300 pieces of equipment, including graders, sweepers, and loaders, to cover thousands of kilometres of roadway.

While the city clears public thoroughfares, homeowners have a critical responsibility on private property. All residents should inspect their sump pumps to ensure they are plugged in, functioning properly, and discharging water away from their foundations. However, it is vital to remember that sump pump water must drain onto private property – such as a lawn or gravel bed – and not onto sidewalks, lanes, or city streets. Directing discharge onto a public right-of-way can create hazardous ice patches and interfere with cleaning equipment. The city enforces this regulation, and property owners found with their sump pump hose emptying onto the public right of way may face a fine.

Note that the city’s yard waste program began on Monday, May 4, so now is a great opportunity to dispose of those items that have been accumulating during the winter months.

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Wednesday, May. 6, 2026

Community Correspondents

Supplied photo Rossmere MLA Tracy Schmidt is pictured with Gaylene Nemeth at the seventh annual Cooper Nemeth Memorial All-Star Hockey Day

Pucks and purpose at Cooper Nemeth Day

Tracy Schmidt 3 minute read Preview

Pucks and purpose at Cooper Nemeth Day

Tracy Schmidt 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 6, 2026

With spring comes hope, and for yet another year hope spang eternal at the Cooper Nemeth Memorial All-Star Hockey Day at Gateway Recreation Centre on March 28. Throughout the day, families, friends, players, and volunteers came together not only to enjoy a great deal of hockey, but to support Cooper’s lasting legacy.

From the first puck-drop on, the Gateway Rec Centre was buzzing. The day featured a series of exciting matchups, including U13 AA, U15 AA, U18 AA and alumni games, bringing together talented young athletes and former players returning to tournament they grew up playing in.

This year’s event raised a record-breaking $40,378 for the Cooper Nemeth Memorial player assistance fund, which helps young Manitoba hockey players who may face financial barriers preventing them from playing the sport they love.

Cooper Nemeth was just 17 years young when we lost him in 2016. He was a dedicated hockey player who spent countless hours at Gateway Rec Centre. As his family searched for a way to honour his memory, they created this special event, inspired in part by a coach who believed a day of hockey could both celebrate Cooper’s life and give back to his community.

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Wednesday, May. 6, 2026

Community Correspondents

Supplied photo Marc (above) is a local history re-enactor who can be found at various historic sites in Winnipeg, bringing the city’s past to life.

History comes alive

Leslie Pitchford 3 minute read Preview

History comes alive

Leslie Pitchford 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 6, 2026

It is always an honour and a joy to meet many remarkable individuals and to write their stories. These are people wanting to connect in so many unique ways to bring expertise, reminders of what is important or fill our day with a little happiness.

It wasn’t hard to notice Marc at the Crestview Safeway grocery store checkout, owing to his notable, colourful bow ties and cheerful manner. His exuberant personality comes through in how he engages with the public, making each person feel unique and valued. He takes his professional position seriously, with a hint of fun.

It is so refreshing to encounter those whose positive energy and spirit of goodness make an impact on others around them.

“Sometimes I feel very explosive positive energy that can’t be bottled up. Just released in a good way. I’m just the way you see me,” he said, referring to his theme song, the Pointer Sisters’ I’m So Excited.

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Wednesday, May. 6, 2026

Community Correspondents

Adobe Stock photo Experience the sights and sounds of London this September with a Chamber Travel tour organized by the Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce.

London is your Chamber Travel destination

Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce 2 minute read Preview

London is your Chamber Travel destination

Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce 2 minute read Wednesday, May. 6, 2026

The Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce its 2006 featured Chamber Travel experience. In partnership with Collette and Continental Travel, we are excited to offer a seven day group trip to London this September. This experience is designed to bring people together, create lasting memories, and offer travellers the chance to explore one of the world’s most iconic cities in a simple, stress free way. We are proud to work with both trusted travel partners, who will make sure every detail is taken care of from start to finish.

Travel is more than visiting new places – it’s about new experiences, learning about different cultures, and sharing meaningful moments with others. This London tour offers all that and more. Travellers will visit the Tower of London, enjoy a Westminster walking tour, ride a river bus along the Thames to Greenwich, take part in a culinary walking tour, and explore Kensington Palace. Each day features something special, with a balance of guided activities and free time so you can enjoy the city at your own pace. Whether your interests are history, food, architecture or simply soaking in the atmosphere, there is something for everyone.

We are delighted to offer this Chamber Travel opportunity for 2026 and welcome all interested travellers to join us. Group travel is a wonderful way to meet new people, strengthen community connections, and experience a destination in a fun and supportive setting. London is a city filled with stories, and we look forward to sharing them with you.

For full details and the complete itinerary, please visit our website, contact our office, or connect with Julie Millar at Continental Travel (204 953-2828) to learn more or book your spot.

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Wednesday, May. 6, 2026

Community Correspondents

Photo by Derek Dabee Pharmacist Harjot Chohan and chiropractor Raman Gill shared health and wellness tips with community correspondent Derek Dabee.

Wellness tips for a happy, active summer

Derek Dabee 3 minute read Preview

Wellness tips for a happy, active summer

Derek Dabee 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 6, 2026

Summer is almost here and the opportunity to be outdoors and get active is limitless.

Pharmacist Harjot Chohan and chiropractor Raman Gill, both of whom practise in northwest Winnipeg, reached out to share a list of simple exercises and wellness tips

• Motion is lotion – Your joints thrive on movement. Even five to 10 minutes of walking, stretching, or light activity every hour can reduce stiffness and pain, especially if you sit a lot;

• Posture isn’t static, it’s dynamic – There’s no ‘perfect’ posture. The key is changing positions often. Set a timer to stand, stretch, or reset your posture every 30 to 60 minutes;

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Wednesday, May. 6, 2026

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