Cathy Cox

Supporting and celebrating our community

It’s been a wonderful summer and it was especially nice to see so many families out enjoying our trails, on the course, or spending time together at one of the popular parks in our community. Whenever I’m out on my walks, I always welcome the opportunity to stop and chat, to hear what’s important to you and your family.

Sadly, the war in Ukraine continues to rage but as the war intensifies so does the generosity of Manitobans. As a third-generation Ukrainian, the atrocities we have seen have weighed heavy on my heart. But, even during these darkest moments of Ukrainian history, we have all witnessed remarkable gestures of kindness, love, and goodness — many from those within our very own neighbourhood. Personally, I am immensely grateful to the thousands of Manitobans who opened their hearts, homes and wallets to assist those families forced to flee their war-torn Ukraine.

In our own community, I was overwhelmed by the mountain of food donations and clothing my office received in response to the food drive I organized to aid our local refugee families. Manitobans are renowned for their generosity and our province will always be known as the “Home of Hope” for all those who chose to call Manitoba their home.

Our government stands strong, in solidarity with Ukraine and its people. On July 14, I was pleased to join Premier Heather Stefanson at Chornick Park to announce funding of $106,000 to support a nine-week summer camp established to assist newly arrived Ukrainian refugee children as they transition to life in their new homeland.

Rainbow Stage receives grant for new gear

The arrival of spring brings much welcomed warmer temperatures, longer evenings and inevitably the often-dreaded yard cleanup, usually considered a chore. I am honoured to represent our Kildonan-River East community which spans both sides of the historic Red River and has a long, rich, diverse history that boasts our world renowned Rainbow Stage. Recently I had the pleasure of visiting Rainbow Stage to present board members Campbell McIntyre and Jeff Peeler with our government’s $25,000 community initiative grant to assist them with the purchase of much-needed new technology for their sound system. As Canada’s largest and longest running outdoor theatre, I was thrilled to assist with the purchase of new microphones so once they’re able to reopen, our “Under the Stars” theatre experience will be better than ever.I was proud to announce our local Kildonan-River East churches, non-profit organizations and daycares received a record $53,040 in Green Team funding this year.  This more than doubles last year’s commitment and provides our local grassroots organizations the opportunity to employ youth throughout the summer months while also helping students gain valuable work experience right here in our home community. ☐ ☐ ☐       Volunteers are the heart of our community and I’d like to say thank you to all those who humbly and quietly step up to generously give of their time, day after day never seeking recognition or accolades. Two such people in our community were recently named to the Manitoba 150, an honour that recognizes their contributions to our province. Congratulations to Bernadette Gabriel who dedicated over 30 years to preserving the rich culture and traditions of Manitoba’s Polish community.  And my sincere thank you to Harold Studholme who played a significant role in improving the lives of children and youth in our province as volunteer at the YMCA and Camp Stephens. ☐ ☐ ☐   I’m pleased to share that a new convenient and accessible vaccination supersite is now open at the Winnipeg Soccer Federation Complex located at 770 Leila Ave. I encourage everyone to step up,  do your part and schedule your vaccination just as soon as you become eligible.Let’s work together to ensure a healthier and brighter future for Manitoba.      

The arrival of spring brings much welcomed warmer temperatures, longer evenings and inevitably the often-dreaded yard cleanup, usually considered a chore. 

I am honoured to represent our Kildonan-River East community which spans both sides of the historic Red River and has a long, rich, diverse history that boasts our world renowned Rainbow Stage. 

When home is no longer safe, help is available

As minister responsible for status of women, it was a priority for me earlier this month to officially proclaim November as Domestic Violence Awareness month in Manitoba. The past nine months have been extremely challenging for all Manitobans but even more so for some as we’ve been asked to stay home and discontinue visits with our families and friends. We know the self-isolation measures in place due to COVID-19 have elevated the risk of family and intimate partner violence, so I want to share that help is available, as our campaign says, “when home is no longer safe.” From the onset of this pandemic, the safety and health of Manitobans has remained our government’s priority. We’ve focused our attention on our most vulnerable, ensuring that during the pandemic, women’s shelters across our province continue to operate around the clock, providing a safe and secure environment for women and their families who may be experiencing some of their darkest days. If you or someone you know is experiencing intimate partner or family violence, I encourage them to call a shelter counsellor using our toll-free provincial crisis line at 1-877-977-0007.  When a phone call is not a safe option, they can text 204-792-5302 or 204-805-6682 for help and information on shelter options or support. Help is available.☐ ☐ ☐Staying connected to our community remains my priority in these unprecedented times. While COVID-19 prevented us from formally gathering at this year’s Remembrance Day services, I was grateful to Legion president Gord Machej for allowing me the opportunity to virtually pay tribute to our brave and courageous veterans at Royal Canadian Legion Branch No. 215’s livestream service. As we bow our heads in remembrance, we must never forget the immense sacrifices our veterans made to protect our rights and freedoms.I’ve remained busy reaching out to our community churches, non-profit organizations and small business owners and was pleased to provide them with some welcome news by sharing information about our government’s new assistance program, the Manitoba Bridge Grant. For questions on eligibility or to learn more about this new $5,000 grant, access www.manitoba.ca/supportsforbusinessSince mid-summer, I’ve committed to maintaining an active lifestyle and have enjoyed meeting many of you on our many neighbourhood trails. As winter settles in and the days grow shorter, my evening walks are now even more enjoyable, brightened by the many shining Christmas lights and displays popping up across our community.  May these twinkling Christmas bulbs also brighten your spirits and provide you with hope, light and optimism as we navigate through these challenging times.We are all in this together.

As minister responsible for status of women, it was a priority for me earlier this month to officially proclaim November as Domestic Violence Awareness month in Manitoba. 

The past nine months have been extremely challenging for all Manitobans but even more so for some as we’ve been asked to stay home and discontinue visits with our families and friends. 

We know the self-isolation measures in place due to COVID-19 have elevated the risk of family and intimate partner violence, so I want to share that help is available, as our campaign says, “when home is no longer safe.” 

Moving forward in the midst of the pandemic

Over the past few months we’ve all experienced a multitude of mixed emotions. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on our lives and daily routines, changing the way we shop, worship, educate our children and visit with our families.

But even during these unprecedented times, our community has remained strong and we’ve continued to rally together to bring light and hope to those in need.

I’ve personally heard of so many acts of kindness. Recently and unexpectedly, a friend I don’t often hear from called to ask how she could help. She owns a local catering company and although her business had come to an abrupt halt, she still wanted to give back to the community.

It touched my heart when I heard she delivered nearly 400 hot and nutritious meals to women and children experiencing family violence.

Let us help with your taxes

Spring is finally in the air! It was a long, cold winter, but it’s a sure sign of spring when our community trails are once again crowded with families out enjoying a walk, bike ride, or perhaps a visit to the local ice cream shop! I have to say - watching all the children smiling as they reacquaint themselves with their neighbourhood friends brings back fond memories of when our three sons were young. Spring is also tax time. I’m pleased to once again host free Income Tax Preparation Clinics in my McIvor Mall Constituency Office. The clinics are available for families or individuals with modest levels of income, and we still have many openings in April. You may schedule your appointment by calling my McIvor Mall office at 204-334-7866. Please remember to bring along all your important receipts, tax documents and your last year’s income tax return.Speaking of receipts, unfortunately, many of us may find that we have a bill for ambulance service stuffed inside our shoebox full of tax documents. I’m proud to share that effective April 1, 2019, ambulance fees will be reduced to $250.  February was “I Love to Read” month and I enjoyed sharing my love of reading with students from many North Kildonan schools and daycares. I thoroughly enjoyed my visits and the warm reception from all the students.I always appreciate hearing from families on important issues that affect our community. You can reach me by contacting my constituency office at 204-334-7866 or by email at cathycox@mymts.net. Wishing everyone a happy Spring! There is so much to see and do in our wonderful province. I hope you’ll take full advantage of the milder weather to get out, be active and enjoy our beautiful Manitoba Spring!

Spring is finally in the air! 

It was a long, cold winter, but it’s a sure sign of spring when our community trails are once again crowded with families out enjoying a walk, bike ride, or perhaps a visit to the local ice cream shop! 

I have to say — watching all the children smiling as they reacquaint themselves with their neighbourhood friends brings back fond memories of when our three sons were young. 

Congratulations to the Kodiaks

My sincere best wishes for a happy, healthy and successful 2019! As we reflect on the accomplishments of the past year, I look forward to making new memories as the MLA for River East.In the spirit of this new year, it’s my pleasure to highlight some wonderful new developments happening right here in our community.First, I’d like to congratulate my alma mater, River East Collegiate and their Kodiaks varsity football team, who recently earned its first provincial AA championship in 21 years! The Kodiaks have been in the league since 1984 and have won a total of three provincial championships — 1991, 1997 and now, 2018. This year’s win is a great accomplishment and a true testament to the Kodiaks’ hard work and determination.I would also like to commend the team’s head coach Sean Oleksewycz, who led the team to victory in his very first year as coach. Sean is known for continuing the tradition of integrity and toughness that the Kodiaks are known for, demanding commitment and accountability from his coaches and players. Congratulations to the whole Kodiak team and River East Collegiate on this remarkable accomplishment! I can hardly wait for the upcoming football season to once again cheer on the Kodiaks!And if you’re looking for a way to celebrate the win, why not head down to Pita Pit North Main and pick up a Kodiak Pita? At this location only, you can purchase a special pita invented by some of our very own River East Collegiate students: Kaitlynn Anderson, Madelyn Pryzlak, Jocelyn Drobot and Mackenzie Baker. What’s even more remarkable is that 60 percent of the proceeds from each pita go to one of my favourite charities, the Children’s Hospital Research Foundation of Manitoba. The deal is only on until Feb. 1, so hurry down to Pita Pit North Main and pick up a Kodiak Pita! As Pita Pit’s Carson Douglas says: “The Kodiak is a high quality, healthy pita that’s good for you and supports an amazing cause. It’s a great taste that won’t stretch your waist.” Thank you to Carson for facilitating this opportunity and to our students for their creativity. Your generosity and drive to give back to our community is inspiring! May we all channel that same spirit of positive energy as we enter this new year. If you would like to highlight any other exciting news in River East or have any questions or concerns, I always appreciate hearing from you. Please reach out to my constituency office at 204-334-7866 or by email at cathycox@mymts.net. I look forward to seeing what 2019 has in store for River East!  

My sincere best wishes for a happy, healthy and successful 2019! As we reflect on the accomplishments of the past year, I look forward to making new memories as the MLA for River East.

In the spirit of this new year, it’s my pleasure to highlight some wonderful new developments happening right here in our community.

First, I’d like to congratulate my alma mater, River East Collegiate and their Kodiaks varsity football team, who recently earned its first provincial AA championship in 21 years! The Kodiaks have been in the league since 1984 and have won a total of three provincial championships — 1991, 1997 and now, 2018. This year’s win is a great accomplishment and a true testament to the Kodiaks’ hard work and determination.

Local theatre group puts on a great show

Christmas is fast approaching, and music is definitely one of my favourite things about “the most wonderful time of the year,” to borrow a phrase from the popular holiday tune! With the sounds of Christmas carols all around us, I also want to take a moment to applaud two very talented artists with River East roots. Just a few weeks ago, I had the good fortune of attending the North Kildonan Community Players’ production of Mary Poppins. Seeing this sold out show was a real treat, and I was humming “A Spoonful of Sugar” for several days afterward! The North Kildonan Community Players was founded by my good friends, Laurie Fischer and his wife Cathie, in 1997. Over the past two decades, Laurie has helped produce and direct and even act in 23 productions, which is an accomplishment worth celebrating! He calls the NKCP a family affair and notes that some productions had four generations on the stage at the same time. But Laurie has also made numerous important contributions to our community offstage, in sports, business and fundraising for various charities, too many to list in this short newspaper column. Earlier this fall, I had the opportunity to hear Laurie speak at the annual Never Alone Foundation luncheon, where he spoke about his battle with cancer. A man of conviction, Laurie openly shares his cancer journey to help encourage his fellow cancer warriors to continue to fight their battle. Since the very first day of his diagnosis, he’s lived by his mantra: “It is what it is…. one step at a time…. one day at a time!” Such inspiring words, and I’m happy to share them with all of you.I was honoured to attend on Nov. 10 the Manitoba Country Music Awards, where I was absolutely thrilled to hand out the hardware for Roots Artist/Duo/Group of the Year to Quinton Blair, who grew up in North Kildonan and played baseball with our son, Chris, quite a few years ago at Gateway Recreation Centre.I was once again delighted to attend the annual River East Transcona School Division/Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra (WSO) concert on Nov. 14 inside a packed Centennial Concert Hall. It was heartwarming to hear the beautiful music from the student musicians alongside our wonderful WSO. Bravo to everyone involved in this great initiative! We are so blessed to have many talented artists and musicians in River East. I hope you will have the opportunity to enjoy some of the sights and sounds of the holiday season over the next few weeks.Thanks to everyone who attended the annual Christmas Open House at my McIvor Mall constituency office on Dec. 8. I enjoyed visiting with everyone and sharing some tasty holiday treats, and I was truly touched by all the generous donations supplied for our community Christmas hamper. From my family to yours, I want to take this opportunity to wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas! May 2019 bring you and your family good health, and many happy memories. 

Christmas is fast approaching, and music is definitely one of my favourite things about “the most wonderful time of the year,” to borrow a phrase from the popular holiday tune! 

With the sounds of Christmas carols all around us, I also want to take a moment to applaud two very talented artists with River East roots. 

Just a few weeks ago, I had the good fortune of attending the North Kildonan Community Players’ production of Mary Poppins. Seeing this sold out show was a real treat, and I was humming A Spoonful of Sugar for several days afterward! 

Funds to support local schools

Autumn is my favourite season of the year! I love the crisp mornings, the myriad beautiful soft colours on the falling leaves and the warm sunny afternoons that fondly remind me of my school days many years ago. I know many families also welcome the return of their children to school and look forward to settling into the routine that accompanies the end of the summer holidays.   In River East, this summer has been anything but routine! Our roads and highways have been very busy with construction and crews have been working overtime to ensure projects are completed before the cold winter approaches. Just last week, I was proud to attend the official ribbon-cutting and opening of the $250-million Lagimodiere Boulevard and Perimeter Interchange Project. The new intersection, which is classified as the busiest in all of Manitoba, will provide northeast residents with much welcomed relief from the traffic congestion we have endured for far too many decades. In mid-August, I was proud to present Tammy Harper, president of Gateway Recreation Centre, with a grant cheque for over $45,000 to assist with the installation of much-needed replacement turf for their Soccerplex. Our government recognizes the importance of investing in our children and youth and the benefits associated with keeping our kids active. My granddaughter can hardly wait for the start of this year’s soccer season, and as a former Gateway soccer coach I’m also eager to see the new turf in play! Just last week, I was especially thrilled to present my former high school, River East Collegiate, with a cheque for over $15,000 to support the installation of a new-state-of-the-art sound system for their theatre. This new system will certainly “up the volume and the music experience” of future performances at REC. It was a pleasure to personally thank Jeff Kula, REC music director and 2014 MusiCounts Teacher of the Year, for his dedication, passion and encouragement; he certainly exemplifies the meaning of motivation, always going over and above to instil in students the love of music. As we prepare for the colder winter weather, let’s not forget those less fortunate. Many of our community churches host food banks or support school breakfast clubs to help those in need. If you’d like to make a donation of a non-perishable food item, I have set up a food drop off box in my constituency office located in McIvor Mall for your convenience.  Together, we can make a difference!

Autumn is my favourite season of the year! I love the crisp mornings, the myriad beautiful soft colours on the falling leaves and the warm sunny afternoons that fondly remind me of my school days many years ago. 

I know many families also welcome the return of their children to school and look forward to settling into the routine that accompanies the end of the summer holidays.   

In River East, this summer has been anything but routine! Our roads and highways have been very busy with construction and crews have been working overtime to ensure projects are completed before the cold winter approaches. Just last week, I was proud to attend the official ribbon-cutting and opening of the $250-million Lagimodiere Boulevard and Perimeter Interchange Project. The new intersection, which is classified as the busiest in all of Manitoba, will provide northeast residents with much welcomed relief from the traffic congestion we have endured for far too many decades. 

Another great veteran’s dinner at Legion

As the calendar changes to a brand-new year, it also gives us the chance to reflect on the previous 12 months that have come and gone so quickly.

As your MLA, there were many highlights for 2017, and I’d love to share some of those memories with you.

For decades the selfless volunteers and Board at the Royal Canadian Legion, Henderson Branch No. 215, have played an important role in our community. While ensuring those that made the ultimate sacrifice are never forgotten they also provide comfort to ailing veterans with their monthly visits to hospitals or personal care homes.

On April 30 our Legion hosted its 8th Annual Veteran’s Dinner, another wonderful tribute and thank you to our local heroes for their service and unwavering dedication to our great country. I was especially honoured to attend this year and be awarded the Canada 150 Medal in commemoration of our Nation’s 150th Anniversary by my fellow Legionnaires.

A perfect summer in River East

We certainly couldn’t have asked for a more perfect summer! Plenty of sunshine, warm weather, no mosquitoes and Canada’s 150th anniversary.

I am privileged to represent the families of River East in the Manitoba legislature. It’s the families and community spirit that make River East so special, and I sincerely appreciate the opportunity to visit and attend so many wonderful events right here in our neighbourhood. In June, I was honoured to attend a ceremony recognizing the late Martin Bergen, a man whose generosity was as immense as his dreams.

While Martin had an incredible influence shaping the Winnipeg skyline with projects such as Fort Garry Place, his proudest accomplishments were those that benefitted his North Kildonan community.

Children were always dear to Martin’s heart and when he was alerted of the Movement Centre’s need for a home, he immediately mobilized his construction crews and within months, the keys to the new  5,300-square-foot facility were presented to Margy Nelson, the centre’s founder.

Gateway gets it done

Recently I had the privilege of attending Gateway Recreation Centre’s annual spring carnival enjoyed by thousands of children, sports participants and their families.

Located in the heart of River East, Gateway has established a reputation of being one of Winnipeg’s leading community clubs. Established over 50 years ago, in what started out as an old garage heated by a wood-fired, pot belly stove, it today boasts state-of-the-art twin indoor hockey rinks, a soccerplex, several ball diamonds, numerous soccer fields and a recreational facility.

While the infrastructure and bricks and mortar are important, it’s the volunteers that are and have been the driving force behind Gateway’s success for over half a century. Thanks to hundreds of dedicated coaches and volunteers, Gateway hosts on average 112 sports teams annually for children ranging in age from three to 18.  They also organize craft sales, Christmas and spring hockey tournaments, as well as many community events including “Skate with Santa” and children’s crafts.

The volunteers at Gateway have always maintained a “get it done” attitude. Regardless of the challenge, they are always quick to assemble and ready to help those in need.  Over the years they have generously reached out to help numerous families by organizing fundraisers to assist with costly medical treatments or expensive travel costs. Their willingness to help was especially evident just last year when Gateway’s resources were utilized to assist a local family in the search for their son, an effort the entire community embraced. 

It’s great to have Good Neighbours

As your MLA for River East, I am always proud to recognize and promote organizations that make a real difference in improving the lives of families living in our community.

Good Neighbours Active Living Centre located at 720 Henderson Hwy. is one of northeast Winnipeg’s prize resources empowering and encouraging adults who are 55-plus to stay both mentally and physically active. It’s motto, “A Place to Go, A Place to Grow” certainly describes why Good Neighbours is such an important part of our community. 

Often when I am out in our neighbourhood visiting or chatting I hear about Good Neighbours and the wide array of activities it has to offer. With an endless list of programming ranging from art lessons to computer labs, card games to fitness training, pickleball, woodworking and even belly dancing, there is something for participants of all ages at Good Neighbours.

It’s also home to the much talked about HobNobs Café where many residents meet to chat or enjoy a mid-morning or lunchtime meal. Good Neighbours is much more than an active living centre, it’s a community.

A great summer in River East

My first 150 days representing the families of River East as their new MLA have been busy and rewarding.  

Working, listening and representing our community is my priority and I always enjoy hearing directly from my constituents on what’s important to them.  

Earlier this summer I was fortunate to celebrate Canada Day with many River East families.

Volunteering at the Royal Canadian Legion while helping at the dunk tank was a cool refresher on such a hot Canada Day and later I enjoyed sharing ice cream at the Canada Day event hosted by the Henderson social clubs.