Free Press Community Review: West

Photo by Tony Zerucha
Isaiah Rock recently won a gold medal at the 2025 Elite national boxing championships, held in Winnipeg last month.

Rock now rolling in the ring

Tony Zerucha Special to FP Community Review 3 minute read 2:01 AM CST

While boxer Isaiah Rock’s 2025 didn’t always go according to plan, the year ended where he wanted it to —as Canadian champion.

Rock captured the gold medal in the 50-kilogram weight class at Boxing Canada’s 2025 Elite National Championships. Held in Winnipeg in late November, the match saw Rock outlast fellow Winnipegger Victor Cheung for the win.

The four-year veteran began 2025 on a good note after winning a silver medal at the 2024 Canadian National Championships in Sarnia, Ont. That close, 3-2 decision left Rock wanting more in 2025.

However, Rock suffered a serious back injury early in the year, leaving the 22-year-old pugilist out of action for four months.

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Back to the future

Andrew Braga 3 minute read Preview

Back to the future

Andrew Braga 3 minute read 2:01 AM CST

In a week’s time, the first quarter of the first century of the common era’s third millennium will be put to rest.

As milestones go, the turn of a millennium is a special thing to experience. Having recently come across the Dec. 31, 1999, and Jan. 1, 2000, editions of the Free Press, it was interesting to look back at a snapshot of that time in history.

The world hadn’t ended, as some had predicted it might, but neither had it become an advanced technological utopia. Still, the particular mix of optimism and anxiety definitely skewed towards the positive.

A Prairie Research Associates poll from the time showed Manitobans were optimistic across every economic sector, from richest to poorest, after the “turbulent” economic times of the ’80s and early ’90s.

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2:01 AM CST

Free Press archives
The Jan. 1, 2000 edition of the Free Press welcomed a new millennium and looked ahead to the future.

Raiders in the hunt for championship banner

Sheldon Birnie STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read Preview

Raiders in the hunt for championship banner

Sheldon Birnie STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read 2:01 AM CST

The Oak Park Raiders are at the top of the Winnipeg High School Hockey League to end 2025, and that’s exactly where the team intends to be at season’s end.

“Since Day 1, the goal is to go the distance and be playing in the last game of the year,” coach Ian McDonald said. “That’s something we talk about weekly.”

In the WHSHL’s top Platinum Promotions Division, Oak Park held the top spot with a 13-1-2 record going into a Dec. 19 game against Lord Selkirk, though both Vincent Massey and Sturgeon Heights were within a pair of wins at press time.

“There are about four of us — Vincent Massey, Steinbach, Sturgeon Heights — where almost every game goes to extra time,” McDonald said. “Those are the teams that we’ll key in on. But any team can beat any team, that’s the strength of the league. Any game we’re not at our best, we can lose to anyone.”

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2:01 AM CST

File photo
The Oak Park Raiders, pictured here in a file photo after winning the 2024 provincial high school championship, are hoping to bring the championship banner home again this season. The Charleswood-based school will host the AAAA provincial tournament in March.

City news in brief — week of Dec. 24, 2025

FP Community Review 1 minute read Preview

City news in brief — week of Dec. 24, 2025

FP Community Review 1 minute read 2:01 AM CST

The Forks to host free New Year’s Day programs

On Jan. 1, 2026, the Forks will be offering a full day of free, family friendly activities to kick off its Learn to Winter program.

“New Year’s Day at The Forks is about coming together and celebrating winter as a community,” said Sara Stasiuk, president andCEOof The Forks, in a statement. “It reflects how people already use the site in winter, whether they are skating, walking, spending time outdoors or grabbing a warm drink in the market. The day brings those everyday activities into focus and sets the tone for the season ahead.”

Beginning at 9 a.m. and running through 8 p.m., activities will include face painting, storytelling, live music, karaoke, drag performances, yoga, fitness classes, skating lessons, and more outdoor fun.

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2:01 AM CST

File photo
Zion Koncan skated on the Nestaweya River Trail on New Year’s Day at The Forks in 2025 and he’ll hopefully be there again on Jan. 1, 2026, as Winnipeg’s meeting place will be offering free activities all day long.

Season’s greetings

Anita Neville 2 minute read Preview

Season’s greetings

Anita Neville 2 minute read 2:00 AM CST

The holiday season is now upon us, a wondrous time of celebration, goodwill to our fellow citizens and thoughtful reflections on the year gone by.

With neighbourhoods and businesses aglow with colourful decorations, our province’s renowned community spirit is bright, beautiful and further enhanced at this time of year. Manitoba’s multiculturalism is also on full display at this time of year, with holiday traditions from around the world joyfully reflected in cuisine, decorations, and seasonal events in all parts of our province.

Our renowned community spirit is further demonstrated through a variety of creative events and charitable endeavours, each helping to ensure that everyone feels the warmth of our welcoming and caring provincial community. I encourage everyone to support the many wonderful organizations dedicated to providing a hand up to Manitobans in need with the same empathy and generosity that has consistently made our province one of the most giving places in Canada.

As the King’s representative in Manitoba, I am pleased to extend vice-regal greetings to all citizens for a safe and happy holiday season. May the wonders of this special time inspire us all to demonstrate kindness and compassion to all, not only seasonally, but all year-round. Every good deed is another subtle reminder of how fortunate we are to call this great province ‘home.’

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2:00 AM CST

Adobe Stock image
Lt. Gov. Anita Neville extends greetings to all Manitobans.

Looking on the bright side this Christmas

Beatrice Watson 3 minute read Preview

Looking on the bright side this Christmas

Beatrice Watson 3 minute read 2:00 AM CST

Even though the world seems to be going to hell in a basket, let me assure you it is not.

If we consume a regular diet of fast-breaking news, it sure looks that way. However, if we take a broader look at where we are now, you’d see that we’ve never had it so good.

No, I’m not Pollyanna-ish. There are facts to back this up. Let us count our blessings this Christmas. We have better health-care than ever before, we are more educated than ever before, the world is connected more than ever before, infant mortality rates have never been better around the world and there is less war than we’ve ever known.

Through leaps and bounds of scientific and technological progress, the world has become a village. We have it in the palm of our hands.

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2:00 AM CST

Adobe Stock photo illustration
Fort Rouge correspondent Beatrice Watson counts our blessings at Christmas.

Siloam evolves to meet needs of those it serves

Donna Minkus 3 minute read Preview

Siloam evolves to meet needs of those it serves

Donna Minkus 3 minute read 2:00 AM CST

Siloam Mission has been providing meals, clothing, and hope to the homeless since it opened its doors in Winnipeg in 1987.

On Dec. 1, Darren Nodrick, director of development at Siloam, told the story of the mission to the Charleswood Historical Society. Over the past 30 plus years, Siloam has evolved from a shelter to a charitable organization that provides programs, services and life skills. It has diversified to meet needs as they arise, including the provision of transitional services and supportive housing. Siloam is also addressing the massive housing deficit by providing social housing to accommodate seniors, in particular.

Nodrick said there are close to 5,000 people experiencing homelessness in Winnipeg right now – double what it was before the COVID-19 pandemic. That number doesn’t include the hidden homeless, such as couch surfers and those living in encampments, he said.

Trauma is the root cause of homelessness, Nodrick said. Addiction is a major issue but it’s more of a symptom than a cause. Today, a lot of seniors are being priced “out of their lives” because housing costs have gone up. Many have finite income and their lives can sometimes come down to a choice between paying rent and buying groceries.

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2:00 AM CST

File photo
Volunteers slice up turkey breasts for Siloam Mission’s annual Thanksgiving meal in October.

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The influential life of Valdimar Eylands

Fred Morris 3 minute read Preview

The influential life of Valdimar Eylands

Fred Morris 3 minute read 2:00 AM CST

On June 21, 1925, at Selkirk Lutheran Church, 24-year-old Valdimar Eylands was ordained as a Lutheran Minister. During the 58-year career that ensued, the young man became a legend in three different countries.

As we approach the 125th anniversary of his birth, the time has come for a story about Uncle Valdimar.

Valdimar was born on March 3, 1901, in Iceland. On Dec. 27, 1925, just five months after his ordainment, Valdimar married Lilia Johnson, and the couple went on to have four children — Jon, Lilia, Elene, and Delores. Valdimar began his ministry serving various U.S. congregations. In 1938, he was called to serve the Selkirk Lutheran Church and assist the ailing Rev. Bjorn B. Jonsson at First Lutheran Church on Victor Street in Winnipeg. After Jonsson’s death in May 1938, Valdimar became lead pastor of First Lutheran for 29 of the next 30 years.

Valdimar’s ministry was very innovative .On Feb. 27, 1944, a First Lutheran evening Icelandic service was broadcast on CKY Radio. Pearl Johnson was the soloist. Rev. Sigurgeir Sigurdson, the bishop of Iceland, preached the sermon.

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Supplied photo
Valdimar Eylands, uncle of St. James correspondent Fred Morris, helped officiate the baptism of Fred and wife Ruby’s twin daughters. (From left) Fred holding Laurie, Ruby holding Lisa, Rev. Valdimar Eylands, Rev. John Kunkel

Celebrating winter in our community

John Orlikow 4 minute read Preview

Celebrating winter in our community

John Orlikow 4 minute read 2:00 AM CST

The excitement of the holiday season and festivities won’t last forever, but that doesn’t mean winter fun has to end. Winnipeg, and especially our corner of it, has so much to offer no matter what your interests or hobbies may be.

Our community centres continue to be a hub of fun and gathering in the winter months with sports and special celebrations bringing many of us together.

At the Corydon Community Centre sites, Winterfest will run from Jan. 20-25, 2026. From the annual hockey tournament to the Big Night Social to the Saturday morning pancake breakfast, visit corydoncc.com/winterfest for the full schedule of this fun-filled event.

On Feb. 8, the Linden Woods Community Centre will host its winter festival. Head over for skating, hockey, cross country-skiing on the trails, a ski library provided by Winnipeg Trails Association, a bonfire with marshmallow roasting, and a hot chocolate bar. Check out lindenwoodscc.com/winter-festival for all the details.

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2:00 AM CST

File photo
Skating on the ODR at the Sir John Franklin site of the Corydon Community Centre is always fun once the rinks open.

Standing together in 2025 and beyond

Leah Gazan 3 minute read Preview

Standing together in 2025 and beyond

Leah Gazan 3 minute read 2:00 AM CST

Having nearly reached 2026, folks in Winnipeg Centre can look back on another busy year, filled with many surprises.

For many, 2025 will go down in the books as a difficult year, marked by overlapping affordability, housing and mental health crises, attacks on our constitutional rights, rising hate and extremism, and a devastating wildfire season. Throughout, it has remained clear that we cannot continue sweeping these crises under the rug with the hope that reactionary policy will keep them hidden.

While we have lots of work ahead, the approaching new year gives us an opportunity to reflect on our progress and plan for the future.

Despite the tumultuous times, 2025 brought me moments of inspiration while connecting with constituents in Winnipeg Centre. Our community organizations build meaningful relationships and uphold the dignity of those they serve. That’s why I so proudly advocated on their behalf, helping to secure federal funding for several organizations in Winnipeg Centre: $10 million for the Women’s Health Clinic’s infrastructure; $600,000 for Resource Assistance for Youth’s pre-employment training; $14 million for Ka Ni Kanichihk’s campus and cultural centre; $5 million for West Central Women’s Centre’s housing add-in; $1.12 million for NorWest Co-Op Community Health’s youth employment programs; $9 million for Ma Mawi Wi Chi Itata Centre’s Asihcikan Indigenous community hub and free grocery stores; $20 million for an affordable housing project in Chinatown; and $25,000 in funding from the New Horizon’s program for a new kitchen at Brooklands Active Living Centre.

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2:00 AM CST

File photo
Winnipeg Centre MP Leah Gazan greets supporters at her headquarters after being elected for the third time last April.

Lighting up our community

Bernadette Smith 3 minute read Preview

Lighting up our community

Bernadette Smith 3 minute read 2:00 AM CST

On Thursday, Dec. 11, Selkirk Avenue shone.

From 4 to 6 p.m., neighbours of all ages stepped out into the winter evening for Lighting Up the Avenue – a North End tradition that has been bringing people together for more than 15 years. This year, our community did what it always does best – we opened our doors, shared what we had, and made sure everyone felt welcome.

Lighting Up the Avenue isn’t just one event in one building. It’s a walking celebration – six welcoming stops hosted by local organizations along Selkirk Avenue. Families moved from place to place, crafting, sharing food, laughing, and reconnecting. It’s also an invitation to light up Selkirk Avenue itself – from homes to storefronts – helping our neighbourhood feel safer, warmer, and brighter through the darkest days of winter.

This year’s celebration was co-ordinated by Indigenous Vision for the North End, working alongside trusted community spaces across Point Douglas to create free, welcoming places to gather and to connect people with supports that last well beyond one evening. Partners included the North End Women’s Centre and Mount Carmel Clinic, North End Community Renewal Corporation, Urban Circle Training Centre, Merchants Corner and the Community Education Development Association, Tunngasugit Resource Centre, the Indigenous Family Centre, and the Mama Bear Clan.

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2:00 AM CST

Supplied photo
At the North End Women’s Centre, kids and caregivers lined up for free photos with the Grinch during Light Up the Avenue, which was held Dec. 11 on Selkirk Avenue.

Hockey hall honours vets’ class of 2025

T. Kent Morgan 4 minute read Preview

Hockey hall honours vets’ class of 2025

T. Kent Morgan 4 minute read 2:00 AM CST

On Dec. 17, the Manitoba Hockey Hall of Fame held its second veterans luncheon – an event devoted exclusively to individuals and teams that excelled in the sport at least 50 years ago. Four players, one builder, and one team were inducted into the HOF at a ceremony held in the Hockey for All Centre, where there is a gallery of previous inductees.

In 1985, the hall of fame’s inaugural class consisted of 70 players, 11 builders and 32 championship teams. Since then, and usually on a biennial basis, the hall has continued to induct worthy candidates. In the early years, research on inductees relied on word-of-mouth, oral histories, and laborious searches of newspaper archives. The internet changed that process, and it became apparent that many deserving candidates had been overlooked.

In 2015, a veterans research committee was established and since then a veteran or two has been recognized at the induction dinner. In 2023, when the HOF hosted its first luncheon dedicated solely to inductees put forth by the veterans committee, headed by board member John Jameson, players Paul Meger, Sonny Rost and Charles Tobin, and builder George Tackaberry were honoured. The 1956-57 Western Hockey League champion Brandon Regals and the 1959-60 to 1963-64 Brandon Wheat Kings juniors were added to the Wall of Champions.

The 2025 class of veterans is made up of players Harry Bueckert, Helge Bostrom, Ron Matthews, and Al Millar, builder J.D. Pratt, and the Winnipeg Olympics women’s team.

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Chamber supports Blessing Bags initiative

Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce 2 minute read Preview

Chamber supports Blessing Bags initiative

Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce 2 minute read 2:00 AM CST

This year, the Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce was proud to support the annual Blessing Bags initiative, led by the Smoke and Scutchings families. Since 2014, these families have organized the collection and distribution of Blessing Bags to those in need throughout Winnipeg’s downtown. Their ongoing commitment demonstrates compassion and highlights the difference that can be made when a community works together.

Blessing Bags are assembled with essential items such as toiletries, warm clothing, and snacks that provide comfort to those facing hardship. The tradition carries special meaning because the families deliver the bags on Christmas morning, ensuring that people in need receive a gesture of kindness at a time of year that can feel especially difficult.

This year, the Smoke and Scutchings families set a goal of preparing and distributing 180 Blessing Bags. The Chamber was pleased to accept donations on their behalf, encouraging members and the wider community to contribute. Throughout December, Chamber events included opportunities for attendees to bring donations, giving members a direct way to be involved and support the effort. By participating in this way, members helped strengthen the project and extend its reach to more people in need. The response was amazing, with donors providing monetary support as well as a wide range of items to help ensure the families had what they needed to meet their goal.

A wonderful example of what can be achieved together, the Blessing Bags initiative shows how we can make a difference during the holiday season and support those who need it most. The Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce is proud to stand alongside the Smoke and Scutchings families in their mission and extends sincere thanks to everyone who contributed.

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Supplied photo by Rayel Smoke
Amanda Gibson of the Assiniboia Chamber of Commerce is pictured with Tannis Smoke of the Blessing Bags drive, who came by to pick the Chamber’s donations of reusable water bottles, snacks, bottled water, feminine hygiene products, toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant and various pieces of clothing.

West edition news in brief — week of Dec. 24, 2025

FP Community Review staff 1 minute read 2:00 AM CST

Free skate at Ab McDonald Arena on Dec. 29

People are invited to take part in a free skating session at Ab McDonald Arena (2055 Ness Ave.).

The public session will run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 29.

Participants can enjoy festive tunes and candy canes, officials say. No pre-registration is required. Visit winnipeg.ca for more details

Community safety is a collaborative effort

Simon Fuller STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read Preview

Community safety is a collaborative effort

Simon Fuller STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read 2:00 AM CST

The South Valour Residents’ Association and the University of Winnipeg’s department of urban and inner-city studies recently launched the SVRA’s community safety toolbox, which is described as a comprehensive resource on inclusive approaches to safety in Winnipeg’s West End.

According to uwinnipeg.ca/community-safety-toolbox, the project is based on four years of research and community engagement focused on caring and inclusive approaches to community safety. The research team — notably Dr. Julie Chamberlain, an associate professor at the U of W — worked with community members and partners to put some of those approaches into action in the West End.

The toolbox includes practical guides, templates, and reflections on how SVRA engaged residents through asset-mapping, safety conversations, a harm-reduction workshop, a scavenger hunt, and other community-building activities.

One of the goals of the initiative is to serve as a template for neighbourhood associations across the city.

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2:00 AM CST

Supplied photo
Stacy Cardigan Smith, a key organizer and member of SVRA’s safety committee, speaks at an event on Nov. 22. The association and the University of Winnipeg’s department of urban and inner-city studies — notably Dr. Julie Chamberlain, an associate professor in the department — recently launched the Community Safety Toolbox, which is described as a comprehensive resource built from four years of research and community engagement on inclusive approaches to safety in Winnipeg’s West End.

Blazing the river trail, one metre at a time

Emma Honeybun STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read Preview

Blazing the river trail, one metre at a time

Emma Honeybun STAFF REPORTER 3 minute read 2:00 AM CST

Now in its second year of operation, the Trail Together campaign at The Forks is calling on the community to give back to a memorable part of the Winnipeg winter season.

The Nestaweya River Trail is considered one of the city’s most beloved winter attractions. In a good year, it can be up to six kilometres long, connecting neighbourhoods across the Red and Assiniboine rivers. It offers two routes to choose from — the long skating rink that’s always talked about, and a parallel trail for walking, running and biking along the frozen ice.

The Forks is the major hub for trail-users, but the Nestaweya River Trail can also be accessed from many riverside neighbourhoods near the city’s core.

The Trail Together campaign asks those interested to pay $50 to essentially ‘adopt’ a metre of the trail, either in their own names or in honour of someone else. Names are displayed online in a list format, as though you’re counting the metres one-by-one. Those so inclined can adopt more than one metre or a purchase a larger sponsorship.

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December 24, 2025