Community Correspondents

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Winnipeg South Centre MP Ben Carr recently represented Canada at the NATO parliamentary assembly’s annual general meeting in Brussels, Belgium.

Strengthening alliances with partners

Ben Carr 3 minute read 2:01 AM CDT

As promised, I’m happy to share a brief update on my experience at the NATO parliamentary annual general meeting. A few weeks ago, I travelled to Brussels, Belgium, and participated in meetings of the NATO parliamentary assembly. It was an honour to represent Canada as part of a cross-party parliamentary delegation, working alongside colleagues from across the alliance at a time when global security challenges demand our close attention.

With NATO now made up of 32 member countries, the meetings brought together parliamentarians from across the alliance – including the United States, Finland, Sweden, and Turkey – to talk through the key challenges facing our shared security. It was a valuable opportunity to connect with colleagues, exchange perspectives, and deepen our understanding of the issues shaping our collective defence.

We discussed emerging security threats, our shared responsibilities, and each country’s role in maintaining a strong alliance. The Arctic, Ukraine and cyber warfare were prominent themes throughout the conference, and we heard directly from intelligence officials. I especially appreciated the opportunity to better understand the work NATO is doing and the priorities guiding its efforts.

As a country with a vast northern region, Canada plays an important role in the alliance. These conversations highlighted how our country – and especially our northern communities – fits into the broader security picture. I was grateful to bring these insights home as we work to keep Canadians safe and to strengthen our partnerships with our allies. The Prime Minister recently announced over $35 billion for investments into our Arctic and Northern defence. As the chair of the Prairies North caucus, and the House of Commons industry committee, this is welcome news for me. The investments will increase our defence capabilities and also spur substantial economic growth through dual-use infrastructure.

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Notre Dame volunteers preparing food donations for the community.

Strengthening food security in Notre Dame

Malaya Marcelino 3 minute read Preview

Strengthening food security in Notre Dame

Malaya Marcelino 3 minute read 2:01 AM CDT

As your MLA for Notre Dame, one of the most important conversations I have with families is about affordability and making sure everyone has access to healthy, reliable food. Food insecurity is a real challenge in our community, but what continues to inspire me is how people are coming together with compassion and determination to support one another.

Across Notre Dame, we are fortunate to have local partners stepping up in meaningful ways. Community-minded businesses are making a real impact. Every Monday, Seafood City donates 50 kilograms of produce, which is distributed to our child-care centres, local community kitchens and more. On Tuesdays, Harris Meats contributes 50 packages of ground beef to support those same efforts. These consistent contributions help ensure families have access to nutritious food close to home.

These efforts are strengthened by the generosity of the Schroeder Foundation. Through a yearly $25,000 donation, we can purchase milk that is delivered every week to 24 child-care centres in our community. Their commitment to supporting families, alongside their work with the Winnipeg School Division providing food subsidies, education supports, and bursaries, continues to make a meaningful difference here in Manitoba.

None of this work would be possible without the dedicated volunteers in Notre Dame who give their time each week to organize, deliver, and support these initiatives. Their commitment ensures that help reaches families who need it most.

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2:01 AM CDT

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Tyndall Park MLA Cindy Lamoureux (centre left, in blue cardigan) supporters and fellow MLAs were pleased to see the Autism Strategy Act pass second reading on March 19.

Autism Strategy Act moves forward

Cindy Lamoureux 3 minute read Preview

Autism Strategy Act moves forward

Cindy Lamoureux 3 minute read 2:01 AM CDT

On March 19, the legislative assembly held a recorded vote to determine if my private member’s bill, Bill 232 – The Autism Strategy Act, should pass second reading. I am happy to report that, after quite a bit of back and forth with the government, all MLAs supported seeing it through to committee.

The bill itself is a long-term, co-ordinated strategy to provide ongoing support and services, including timely access to screening and diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder; supports and services for autistic children and early learning and child-care facilities, as well as at all levels of their education; supports and services for autistic adults, including those related to employment and housing; supports and services for families and caregivers of autistic people; research on ASD; and comprehensive data collection and statistical analysis respecting autistic people.

After the bill’s second reading, on March 17, a few government members voted against moving the Autism Strategy Act onto the committee phase. Fortunately, I had the support of enough members to call for a recorded vote.

It was incredible to witness how, over 48 hours, a community petition garnered over 2,000 signatures and MLAs of all stripes shared that they had heard from their constituents about the bill. Hundreds of posts in support of the legislation were shared on social media.

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2:01 AM CDT

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Listening to Seine River voices about the Lemay Forest.

Shaping the future of Lemay Forest together

Billie Cross 3 minute read Preview

Shaping the future of Lemay Forest together

Billie Cross 3 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

On March 19, I had the pleasure of attending the open house on the future of Lemay Forest at St. Norbert Community Centre.

I truly enjoyed speaking with my constituents and hearing more about their stories and their connection to Lemay Forest. I had the chance to connect with many folks I have come to know well over the years, and it meant a great deal to be able to have those conversations about just how important this forest is to our community.

I was also very happy to see how many people came out to share their thoughts and provide input on what they would like to see for the future of Lemay Forest. It was clear they care deeply about this space. Many shared their perspectives, and because of that, I know our NDP government now has a better understanding of how we can shape Lemay into a provincial park that reflects the needs of our community.

Throughout the open house, it was wonderful to hear folks discuss the historical, cultural, and ecological importance of Lemay Forest. Residents spoke about what makes this space special, and it was so encouraging to see such thoughtful and meaningful engagement.

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2:00 AM CDT

Improving health-care in River Park South

Billie Cross 3 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

I’ve been hearing from many families in River Park South and across Seine River about what matters most to them. Again and again, I hear how important it is to have a health-care system that is reliable, accessible, and there when folks need it.

That’s exactly what our NDP government is focused on delivering for Manitobans.

One of the most important steps forward is the launch of MediNav, a new online tool that helps you find and book same-day or next-day medical appointments at participating clinics. Instead of waiting in an emergency room for non-emergency care, you can now book an appointment quickly and get the care you need, when you need it.

Create an account today at: www.medinav.ca.

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Elmwood MLA Jim Maloway is pictured in March 2021 with Ron Theriault, his son Anthony, and the late city councillor Jason Schreyer. Elmwood Appliance has been servicing and selling appliances in the Elmwood area since 1996.

Right to repair a win for consumers

Jim Maloway 2 minute read Preview

Right to repair a win for consumers

Jim Maloway 2 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

On March 11, Manitoba introduced Bill 15, its first government-led right to repair legislation.

When first introduced to the legislature in 2021 under my private member’s bill, the right to repair movement was not well-known in Canada. Since then, it has gained momentum by offering clear benefits to consumers and the environment.

Right to repair aims to make products such as appliances, electronics, farm equipment and vehicles easier and more affordable to fix – helping households save money while reducing waste.

From an environmental perspective, extending the lifespan of products is critical. When devices and appliances are repaired instead of replaced, fewer items end up in landfills. This is especially important given that only about 20 per cent of electronic waste is properly recycled. By reducing premature disposal, we can limit toxic materials entering the environment, while lowering the demand for new manufacturing, which in turn reduces raw material extraction and greenhouse gas emissions.

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2:00 AM CDT

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Riel MLA Mike Moyes, provincial minister of environment and cimate change is picturedat the Manitoba legislature on budget day.

Good jobs, lower costs, better health care

Mike Moyes 3 minute read Preview

Good jobs, lower costs, better health care

Mike Moyes 3 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

This year’s provincial budget focuses on the fundamentals that matter most to families here in Riel – strengthening health care, lowering everyday costs, and building opportunities that keep our neighbourhoods strong. It’s a practical plan aimed at steady progress and rebuilding services Manitobans rely on every day.

Health care remains the top concern for many households in Manitoba and across Riel. This budget takes meaningful steps to rebuild capacity and improve access to care.

Manitoba has now added 4,054 net new front-line health care workers since we were elected, helping to stabilize staffing. We are making a $22 million investment to re establish the Cardiac Centre of Excellence at St. Boniface Hospital, now called Heart Care Manitoba, strengthening cardiac services close to home.

At the Victoria Hospital, $5.2 million will support the new Manitoba Menopause Clinic, expanding specialized care for women’s health. The Selkirk Hospital will deliver 200 additional hip and knee surgeries, along with more MRI capacity, helping reduce backlogs that affect patients across Winnipeg.

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2:00 AM CDT

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Christian Cassidy is the executive director of Trees Winnipeg.

Trees Winnipeg gears up for planting season

Christian Cassidy 3 minute read Preview

Trees Winnipeg gears up for planting season

Christian Cassidy 3 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

When I’m not researching local history, I am busy at my day job as the executive director of Trees Winnipeg.

Trees Winnipeg was created in 1992 as the Coalition to Save the Elms, a non-profit charitable organization focused on protecting the city’s troubled elm population. The name and mandate changed in the early 2000s to help promote, preserve and replenish our entire urban forest.

The planning is well underway for our 2026 programming, despite the snow on the ground.

Our longest-running program is our annual Arbor Day celebration, held every spring in a city park. This year, our 25th anniversary event will take place in Bruce Park on June 6, and will feature a community tree planting.

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2:00 AM CDT

Supplied photo by Anna Kozhukalo
Dress for Success Winnipeg’s annual spring sale is April 24.

Dress for Success Winnipeg empowers women

Helen Lepp Friesen 3 minute read Preview

Dress for Success Winnipeg empowers women

Helen Lepp Friesen 3 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

Twice a year, Dress for Success Winnipeg transforms donated clothing into opportunity. At the heart of the initiative is program manager Eston Ferraton, who ensures “all moving parts of Dress for Success move properly.”

The semi-annual sale is one of the organization’s few fundraisers, offering a wide range of clothing for just $5 per item, with a special deal – buy four, get one free.

“We have a lot of lovely, lovely things this year,” Ferraton said, talking about Dress for Success Winnipeg’s upcoming sale. “It’s a mixture of professional attire, casual wear, summer dresses, jeans – things you might wear to work or while running errands.”

Dress for Success Winnipeg began in 1997 as The Clothes Closet, providing women with clothing for work and court appearances. In 2019, the program joined the global Dress for Success network, which boasts 130 network members worldwide, including 13 in Canada. Winnipeg is the only one in Manitoba.

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2:00 AM CDT

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Julie Vogelsang says “don’t give up.”

Living an illuminated life

Heather Emberley 4 minute read Preview

Living an illuminated life

Heather Emberley 4 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

April is Volunteer Month, but for volunteer Julie Vogelsang every month is Fibromuscular Dysplasia Awareness Month. April just happens to be the month when Julie gears up for the national campaign throughout May to inform and support those who have FMD, as it is commonly known.

FMD is a rare disorder that causes abnormal cell growth in the walls of your arteries (the blood vessels that carry blood from the heart to the rest of the body). Instead of being smooth and flexible, the arteries become stiff, thickened, or develop weak spots.

Many people don’t even know they have FMD if they have not had a CT scan or MRI, because their presenting health issues are usually migraines, high blood pressure, neck pain, dizziness, vertigo, shortness of breath, kidney problems or fatigue. FMD can happen at any age. Smokers are at an increased risk and smoking makes the disease worse, according to researchers at the Mayo Clinic.

Often people find out they have FMD after a stroke or heart episode. While it is not terminal, there is no cure. Many family doctors are not aware of the symptom-cause connection – which is where Julie comes in.

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2:00 AM CDT

Mikaela Mackenzie / Free Press
The Leaf, in Assiniboine Park, is a wonderful way to escape to nature, especially in the winter months.

Learning to love The Leaf

Sonya Braun 3 minute read Preview

Learning to love The Leaf

Sonya Braun 3 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

I love The Leaf.

I used to question the amount of money that was spent on building it. I used to bemoan that I was too far away to enjoy it.

But now that I live in Charleswood and have a membership, my former misgivings have vanished and I love The Leaf.

If you don’t actually know what I’m talking about, The Leaf, located within Assiniboine Park, is essentially an indoor botanical garden with two different biomes (or growing climates) – tropical and Mediterranean – and a small butterfly garden. There is also a restaurant, a coffee bar with lunch and snack items, and an area that can be rented for events.

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2:00 AM CDT

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Participants in St. Boniface Street Links’ Coldest Night of the Year walk included St. Boniface – St. Vital MP Ginette Lavack (in the blue coat, with her hood up).

Coldest Night walk raises record amount

Ryan Palmquist 2 minute read Preview

Coldest Night walk raises record amount

Ryan Palmquist 2 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

In November, I wrote about St. Boniface Street Links annual Coldest Night of the Year walk, which took place on Feb. 28, 2026.

Thanks to over 20 volunteers, including and especially the Catholic Women’s League and other Holy Cross Church supporters, the event was a huge success.

Each year, charities across Canada serving the most vulnerable host CNOY events, taking two- or five-kilometre walks through their neighbourhoods, with teams and participants raising funds in support of their walk. The event was also generously supported by the business and philanthropic community. Street Links, a housing-first organization dedicated to ending homelessness and providing a pathway out of addiction, has been holding its CNOY event for five years now.

This year, 169 registered walkers on more than 30 teams set out from Holy Cross Church (252 Dubuc St.), supported by many generous local businesses. As event organizer, I am proud to say this year’s event was the most successful of any previous year, raising over $60,000.

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2:00 AM CDT

Photo by Adriano Magnifico
Some of the team from Windsor Park Collegiate behind Beak-a-Boo, their Junior Achievement company project. (From left) Anthony Lozi, VP of human resources; Shivam Sharma, president; Vania Chien, VP of production; Ayotanreti Omotoso, VP of finances.

Innovative Windsor Park project is for the birds

Adriano Magnifico 3 minute read Preview

Innovative Windsor Park project is for the birds

Adriano Magnifico 3 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

Twenty-two Windsor Park Collegiate students are winding up the longest, most intensive, project of their high school lives.

It’s not part of the 30 credits they must complete to graduate and it’s happening outside school hours.

The aspiring entrepreneurs are participating in the Junior Achievement Manitoba company program, in which they start a company from scratch, create a product to sell, pour themselves into a relentless 20-week long campaign to sell their wares, and compete with 26 schools and 300 students throughout Manitoba for the coveted JA Company of the Year award.

The WPC team’s product is called Beak-a-Boo, a bird-watching kit that encourages families to plan nature hikes in Winnipeg forests such as Bois-des-Esprits, Seine River Greenway’s Trail, Beliveau Forest, and Bunn’s Creek Parkway.

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2:00 AM CDT

Inspired by the St. Johns community

Nahanni Fontaine 3 minute read 2:00 AM CDT

Spending time in St. Johns feels like being in a neighbourhood that carries its history in plain sight. Moving through the streets reveals a steady character built around landmarks and everyday routines that longtime residents recognize instantly. It is also a living reflection of Winnipeg’s strength and resilience.

One of the biggest anchors is St. Johns Park. Situated along the Red River, it is where a lot of neighbourhood life happens. The warm summers draw families to the playground, children riding bikes, and people cutting through on their way home. It’s also a place where community events pop up from time to time. I always say, if you want the community to show up, host an event at St. John’s Park. The winters are quieter, but it never really feels empty. It is still part of the daily rhythm for many residents.

The heartbeat of St. Johns lives in the small, locally owned businesses that line its streets. From family-run cafés to independent grocers and long-standing repair shops, these businesses are more than places to shop; they are places that keep the community connected.

Residents have a deep appreciation for shopping local. It’s not just about convenience – it’s about trust, familiarity, and investing back into the neighbourhood.

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Kirkfield Park MLA Logan Oxenham reads The Golden Goal, by Matthew Cade, to students Sansome School.

Better care coming to Kirkfield Park

Logan Oxenham 2 minute read Preview

Better care coming to Kirkfield Park

Logan Oxenham 2 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 25, 2026

Spring’s on the way – if you’re an optimist like me. I’m counting down the days until the warm weather, sunshine, and those first flowers poking through the snow. February and March get a rough reputation around here, and honestly, they’ve earned it. But there’s still plenty happening in these months to feel good about.

February holds a special place for me though. Sure, I love Festival du Voyageur and those last weeks of winter fun, but I Love To Read Month? That’s what makes February stand out. This year, I had the chance to read with young people across Kirkfield Park – at Strathmillan, Sansome, Athlone, École Bannatyne, and the YMCA/YWCA Childcare Centre. While we were there, we also made sure our school libraries are stocked with quality, in-demand books from Canadian authors, such as On the Trapline, by David A. Robertson and Song of Freedom, Song of Dreams, by Shari Green.

Grace Hospital has some real momentum building right now. It’s launching a new surgery clinic that will bring seven surgeons under one roof – a game-changer for reducing wait times, improving access to care, and freeing up our emergency departments to focus on the most urgent cases.

Speaking of health-care improvements, I had the privilege of joining Premier Wab Kinew, Health Minister Uzoma Asagwara, and Winnipeg Regional Health Authority CEO Jane Curtis at Grace Hospital last week for an exciting announcement. A record number of ICU nurses are finishing their training and filling vacancies across Winnipeg hospitals, including the Grace. Better staffing means shorter waits and better care when you need it most.

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Wednesday, Mar. 25, 2026

Building opportunities and celebrating learning

Doug Eyolfson 3 minute read Preview

Building opportunities and celebrating learning

Doug Eyolfson 3 minute read Wednesday, Mar. 25, 2026

It is always a privilege to represent Winnipeg West and to see first-hand the work happening across our community. Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the chance to take part in initiatives that reflect what makes our area such a great place to live: strong partnerships, a commitment to learning, and neighbours supporting one another.

At the end of February, I was pleased to announce a $10 million federal investment through Prairies Economic Development Canada to support the development of 127 acres of direct-access runway lands at Winnipeg Richardson International Airport. I was proud to make the announcement on behalf of the Eleanor Olszewski, the minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada.

This investment will support the West Lands development project, helping prepare these lands for future development. It will create new opportunities for companies in aerospace, defence, and advanced manufacturing to locate and grow here in Winnipeg West.

Projects such as this help attract investment, create jobs, and strengthen Manitoba’s role in national and global supply chains. They also support long-term economic growth for families and businesses in our community.

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Wednesday, Mar. 25, 2026

April 1, 2026