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Community Correspondents

Let’s save historic Winnipeg

Julia Fernie Special to FP Community Review 3 minute read Yesterday at 2:00 AM CDT

There once stood a broad, spacious home with crystal chandeliers, blooming gardens and a staircase straight out of Titanic. A long, mandala-like pathway welcomed your presence, shaded by thick flourishing shrubbery. Built in 1909 and designed by C.C. Chisholm, this staple of Winnipeg, facing Munson Park, was 514 Wellington Cres.

It served many generations, and was going to continue, but in 2016, it was sold to a developer who wished to replace it with condominiums. Winnipeggers pushed back, desperate to save this vital piece of history, but despite their best efforts, there was nothing they could do. Since 2020, there is now a pile of ash and rubble where a great house stood, the ghost of the house and its past fading, slowly being forgotten.

House at 1188 Wellington Cres., 1015 Wellington Cres., and others have also been victims of the bulldozers. One could argue they were old and rotting but, really, these important places of history have been sabotaged by greedy developers looking to earn fast money. “Demolition by neglect” is a phrase on the rise, because, looking into the causes of these teardowns, most of these structures were improperly heated or cooled for long periods of time. When an application to demolish a house for no good reason has been rejected, it is simpler to neglect the property.

It has been estimated that 25 per cent of solid waste in landfills comes from house demolitions. Not only is tearing down our beloved history often an act of sabotage or stripping us of culture, it is not environmentally friendly. Machinery used to demolish a home contributes to global warming and creates excess waste that does not have the opportunity to be recycled. Most demolitions are of single-family homes, and each demolition sends more than 50 tonnes of waste to the landfill. That is 50 tonnes of valuable history that is going down the drain.

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Something for everyone at East Elmwood C.C.

Susan Huebert 3 minute read Preview

Something for everyone at East Elmwood C.C.

Susan Huebert 3 minute read Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

Summer is almost here, and with the school year soon ending, many other activities are also winding up for the season. For the residents of East Elmwood, the end of spring could be a good chance to check out the programs that will continue throughout the summer and to plan how to become involved again once the fall comes.

East Elmwood Community Centre is a familiar place to many people. It opened in 2015 and has been at its current location of 490 Keenleyside St., after fire destroyed its previous building on Beach Avenue.

“East Elmwood Community Centre is more than a nice new building,” said facility manager Jessica Lemky. “It’s the heart of our community and allows for connection, growth, and community.”

Some members of the community might want to check out the possibility of dodgeball at www.dodgeballwinnipeg.com. For the spiritually inclined, the Gateway East Church holds meetings every Sunday at the community centre, with information available at www.gatewaywinnipeg.com/gateway-east.

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Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

Photo by Susan Huebert

Now’s the time to check out the summer programs at East Elmwood Community Centre and in the surrounding area.

Celebrating our cultural diversity

Nick Barnes 4 minute read Preview

Celebrating our cultural diversity

Nick Barnes 4 minute read Yesterday at 2:00 AM CDT

Whyte Ridge’s Celebration of Cultural Diversity on April 30 was arguably one of the largest community events of the past 20 years.

The Whyte Ridge Community Centre, Henry G. Izatt Middle School and its parents’ council, and Pembina Active Living 55-plus jointly planned the celebration over the past six months. It evolved from previous successful events organized by the WRCC and PAL 55-plus at the community centre but, given space constraints, the decision was made to host it at the middle school this year, thus including another pillar of the community.

Rather than filling the community centre with 50 people for two hours, the H.G. Izatt gymnasium and adjacent classrooms were filled with more than 800 people over a four-hour period — people of all ages, cultural and ethnic backgrounds, sharing food, entertainment, conversation, and lots of smiles.

Tyler Mags from Virgin Radio was the Master of Ceremonies. Opening remarks from key organizers Shahin Shooshtari (WRCC Diversity Director), and Sandra Sukhan (Past President PAL 55+) were followed by a Message of Gratitude and welcome to Treaty 1 from Ms. Marlene Carriere, an Elder from Opaskwayak Cree Nation. Welcomes were also provided by local federal MP, Terry Duguid, provincial MLA Obby Kahn, and City Councillor Janice Lukes.

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Yesterday at 2:00 AM CDT

Photo by Nick Barnes

Fort Whyte MLA Obby Khan (third from right) visits the Malaysia booth at the Celebration of Cultural Diversity held at Henry G. Izatt Middle School in Whyte Ridge on April 30.

Thanking nurses for all they do

Audrey Gordon 2 minute read Preview

Thanking nurses for all they do

Audrey Gordon 2 minute read Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

I was honoured to proclaim National Nursing Week in Manitoba on May 8, alongside Indigenous Nurses Day on May 10.

During National Nurses Week, I had the opportunity to stop by the University of Manitoba to welcome and congratulate the 120 nursing students who began the inaugural summer intake at the College of Nursing. This expansion of nurse-training seats works in tandem with the Health Human Resource Action Plan to train, retain and recruit nurses, and our government remains committed to adding 400 nurse training seats across multiple education programs in the province.

In 2021, the Undergraduate Nurse Employee (UNE) program was created to complement the added seats and ensure that these students receive an enhanced, hands-on clinical education. It provides third and fourth year nursing students with the opportunity to be paid to work – and continue to learn – in their chosen profession. These students are able to make a competitive wage providing care in our hospitals, under the mentorship and supervision of registered nurses, while continuing to learn and develop their skills.

The Health Human Resource Action Plan was announced last year, with the goal of training, retaining, and recruiting health-care professionals. The plan included $123 million of incentives for nurses here in Manitoba, which includes — a new hourly premium for nurses who work weekend hours; reimbursement of nurses’ professional licensing fees; and a provincial float pool to support nurse staffing needs across the province. It also includes a wellness incentive that adds additional funds to the health spending accounts of full and part-time nurses to help to cover the costs of eligible expenses. Since its launch, we have hired 259 additional nurses in Manitoba.

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Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

Supplied photo

Southdale MLA Audrey Gordon visited the University of Manitoba’s College of Nursing for its inaugural summer intake.

Support for kids, not billionaires

Wab Kinew 2 minute read Preview

Support for kids, not billionaires

Wab Kinew 2 minute read Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

It’s graduation season. And this year I’m thrilled to join the ranks of proud parents who will be watching their children graduate, as my oldest son graduates high school.

As a parent myself, I know that kids in Manitoba deserve the best. They deserve small class sizes and a teacher who can give each student the one-on-one attention they need. They deserve a classroom with educational assistants and resources, plus warm meals for those who need them.

Unfortunately, Brian Pallister and Premier Stefanson have been cutting education funding for years. And we recently learned they have a secret plan to cut school funding for thousands of kids if they are elected this fall. The Progressive Conservative government’s new funding model for public schools will mean millions of dollars more in cuts to classrooms. Under the new model, the PCs would cut $11 million from Seven Oaks School Division, $10 million from Louis Riel School Division, $8.5 million from St. James-Assiniboia School Division, $4.5 million from Pembina Trails School Division, and over $2 million from Winnipeg School Division. These cuts mean fewer teachers and EAs, more students crammed into classrooms, and less support for parents and families.

The PCs can’t be trusted on education. Instead of investing in our schools, they’re handing out cheques to hugely successful out-of-province companies like Loblaws, which have been making your groceries more expensive. And Manitobans still remember Bill 64, the PC’s failed education bill which would have consolidated school divisions in our province under one centralized authority. Fortunately, Manitobans said no to Bill 64, and together we were able to stop it from passing.

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Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

It’s graduation season. And this year I’m thrilled to join the ranks of proud parents who will be watching their children graduate, as my oldest son graduates high school.

As a parent myself, I know that kids in Manitoba deserve the best. They deserve small class sizes and a teacher who can give each student the one-on-one attention they need. They deserve a classroom with educational assistants and resources, plus warm meals for those who need them.

Unfortunately, Brian Pallister and Premier Stefanson have been cutting education funding for years. And we recently learned they have a secret plan to cut school funding for thousands of kids if they are elected this fall. The Progressive Conservative government’s new funding model for public schools will mean millions of dollars more in cuts to classrooms. Under the new model, the PCs would cut $11 million from Seven Oaks School Division, $10 million from Louis Riel School Division, $8.5 million from St. James-Assiniboia School Division, $4.5 million from Pembina Trails School Division, and over $2 million from Winnipeg School Division. These cuts mean fewer teachers and EAs, more students crammed into classrooms, and less support for parents and families.

The PCs can’t be trusted on education. Instead of investing in our schools, they’re handing out cheques to hugely successful out-of-province companies like Loblaws, which have been making your groceries more expensive. And Manitobans still remember Bill 64, the PC’s failed education bill which would have consolidated school divisions in our province under one centralized authority. Fortunately, Manitobans said no to Bill 64, and together we were able to stop it from passing.

Red River ecological corridor needed

Jon Gerrard 3 minute read Preview

Red River ecological corridor needed

Jon Gerrard 3 minute read Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

Establishing and providing stewardship for ecological or wildlife corridors is a critical part of what needs to be done in Manitoba in the next few years.

Protecting islands of habitat is not enough, we need to provide corridors so that wildlife, including birds and mammals, have paths to join islands together. Such ecological corridors are also important as areas where habitat can be enhanced and trees can be planted as a way to address climate change and to decrease the risk of flooding (land which is treed holds water on the land longer so that floods are less likely).

For the last two years I have been involved in looking at the potential for an ecological corridor along the Little Saskatchewan River from Riding Mountain National Park to the Assiniboine River. Establishing an ecological corridor and providing stewardship for it is very different from establishing a provincial or national park. A large proportion of the land along the Little Saskatchewan River is privately owned and farmed. There are two First Nations along the Little Saskatchewan River and Métis have hunted along the river for many decades. An ecological corridor in this circumstance requires consultation with local landowners, municipalities, the First Nations, Métis and the local watershed district. It will also need to involve people in decision-making and it will require funding. Fortunately, the federal government has already announced funding for ecological corridors across Canada.

In conversation with River Heights residents, I have found interest in an ecological corridor along the Red River from the U.S. Border to Lake Winnipeg. On May 7, I hosted a forum to further explore the idea.

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Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

Supplied photo

River Heights MLA Jon Gerrard hosted a forum May 7 on the possiblity of designating an ecological corridor along the Red River.

The most wonderful time of the year

Sonya Braun 2 minute read Preview

The most wonderful time of the year

Sonya Braun 2 minute read Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

It’s the most wonderful time of the year

When everyone’s walking

And people are stopping to talk on the street

It’s the most wonderful time of the year

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Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

Dreamstime

The May long weekend usually marks the beginning of the summer season for most Winnipeggers — a glorious time of the year.

Failure to act leads to increase in HIV rate

Uzoma Asagwara 2 minute read Preview

Failure to act leads to increase in HIV rate

Uzoma Asagwara 2 minute read Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

The Manitoba HIV Program Report shows that the number of people living with HIV in the province grew from 111 to 169, or 52 per cent, between 2018 and 2021. This alarming rise in HIV rates in Manitoba is an issue that demands immediate attention and action. The government’s inaction, however, has only exacerbated the situation, leading to severe consequences for individuals, our communities, and the health-care system as a whole.

Despite clear evidence of escalating HIV transmission rates, the government has failed to implement comprehensive prevention and education programs. This lack of action has perpetuated misinformation, stigma, and discrimination surrounding HIV/AIDS, hindering efforts to promote awareness and encourage safe practices. Rising HIV rates and record-breaking overdoses year after year have still not been enough for this government to take action or implement supervised consumption sites. By neglecting the urgent need for robust healthcare services, accessible testing, and harm reduction strategies, the government has allowed the rates of transmission to skyrocket.

Furthermore, the insufficient funding allocated to HIV/AIDS initiatives in Manitoba has severely affected organizations who are working tirelessly to combat the crisis, all combined with the years that the government had spent damaging our health-care system leading to catastrophe in the pandemic. This lack of support has disrupted the availability of essential services, such as counselling, treatment, and support networks, leaving individuals living with HIV vulnerable and isolated.

The government’s failure to prioritize the fight against HIV is a disregard for the health and well-being of its citizens. Urgent measures must be taken to reverse this trend, including increased funding for prevention programs, harm-reduction efforts including supervised consumption sites, widespread outreach and comprehensive health education in schools.

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Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

The Manitoba HIV Program Report shows that the number of people living with HIV in the province grew from 111 to 169, or 52 per cent, between 2018 and 2021. This alarming rise in HIV rates in Manitoba is an issue that demands immediate attention and action. The government’s inaction, however, has only exacerbated the situation, leading to severe consequences for individuals, our communities, and the health-care system as a whole.

Despite clear evidence of escalating HIV transmission rates, the government has failed to implement comprehensive prevention and education programs. This lack of action has perpetuated misinformation, stigma, and discrimination surrounding HIV/AIDS, hindering efforts to promote awareness and encourage safe practices. Rising HIV rates and record-breaking overdoses year after year have still not been enough for this government to take action or implement supervised consumption sites. By neglecting the urgent need for robust healthcare services, accessible testing, and harm reduction strategies, the government has allowed the rates of transmission to skyrocket.

Furthermore, the insufficient funding allocated to HIV/AIDS initiatives in Manitoba has severely affected organizations who are working tirelessly to combat the crisis, all combined with the years that the government had spent damaging our health-care system leading to catastrophe in the pandemic. This lack of support has disrupted the availability of essential services, such as counselling, treatment, and support networks, leaving individuals living with HIV vulnerable and isolated.

The government’s failure to prioritize the fight against HIV is a disregard for the health and well-being of its citizens. Urgent measures must be taken to reverse this trend, including increased funding for prevention programs, harm-reduction efforts including supervised consumption sites, widespread outreach and comprehensive health education in schools.

A better deal for workers

Daniel Blaikie 3 minute read Preview

A better deal for workers

Daniel Blaikie 3 minute read Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

Working people deserve to have a political party that stands up for their interests.

The super-rich do not make most of their money from a salary. They make it by charging rent on what they own, whether they own houses, tools, mining rights, factories or something else.

What they own and the wealth they get from owning it gives them power and access to influential decision makers. No individual worker, whether they make 30, 60 or even $100,000 a year, can contest that power.

But when we stand together, we can take back control of our economy and our lives, ensuring that the wealth we create as workers is distributed fairly and reinvested in our communities instead of being siphoned off into tax havens for the benefit of a small, yacht-obsessed elite.

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Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

Working people deserve to have a political party that stands up for their interests.

The super-rich do not make most of their money from a salary. They make it by charging rent on what they own, whether they own houses, tools, mining rights, factories or something else.

What they own and the wealth they get from owning it gives them power and access to influential decision makers. No individual worker, whether they make 30, 60 or even $100,000 a year, can contest that power.

But when we stand together, we can take back control of our economy and our lives, ensuring that the wealth we create as workers is distributed fairly and reinvested in our communities instead of being siphoned off into tax havens for the benefit of a small, yacht-obsessed elite.

’Tis the season – for fires

Michele Kading 2 minute read Preview

’Tis the season – for fires

Michele Kading 2 minute read Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

Fire is in the news every day. Forest fires in B.C. and Alberta are burning out of control. The smoke is affecting the air quality here in Winnipeg. You can see and smell the smoke in the air. At times, it affects visibility, reduces the temperature, and turns the sun into a pink ball in the sky.

There is no doubt that large wildfires can be destructive. They can pose an immediate threat to people and property. For decades, forest fires were suppressed to prevent valuable timber from going up in flames. We are now paying the price for that policy.

Current thinking is that periodic fires in forests and prairies are beneficial. They prevent the dangerous accumulation of dry plant material – thus reducing the chance of a larger wildfire in the future.

Scientists believe that humans began using fire over one million years ago. Fire provided early people with warmth and protection from predators. It was a tool to fell trees, drive game toward hunters, cook food, and clear land for cultivation.

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Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

Supplied photo

Fire is used to maintain prairie habitats in Winnipeg.

A duck’s tale becomes a mystery

Sandy Nemeth 3 minute read Preview

A duck’s tale becomes a mystery

Sandy Nemeth 3 minute read Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

A few weeks ago, a mallard duck saw fit to not only build a nest under our Hydro meter but follow it up by laying eggs. It was a head-scratching discovery to be sure.

Because the nest was along the driveway, we changed the way we left home and returned, and a new pattern emerged with ‘a guest’ in residence. Mama Duck would always be on the nest during the day but would take great care to cover it up and fly away for a few hours each evening. Before leaving for the day I would peek from a good distance and offer her a ‘good morning’ and say ‘hello’ upon returning. During the day, when working outside, she was given a wide berth. And on it went.

Top of mind was what to do once the eggs hatched. I was terrified for the future of the ducklings. Henteleff Park, or any other water in the form of residential ‘lakes’, is far away, and a long walk for little legs. I was advised to leave it to Mother Nature, but if the trek to water was going to begin when I was home, I had every intention of following along to ensure safe passage across busy streets.

This nest is not the only one on residential property this year – or any year, for that matter. Multiple social media posts are tracking journeys that reflect ours, including several in River Park South. The decided-on approach was consistent when I looked for guidance on what to do – steer clear, do not handle the eggs or disturb the nest, let Mama Duck do her thing, and hope for the best. I was unaware that mallard ducks are federally protected and moving the nest is illegal without a permit.

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Yesterday at 2:01 AM CDT

Dreamstime

A mallard duck built her nest under the Hydro meter of correspondent Sandy Nemeth. but she’s unsure what has become of the eggs.

Don’t ‘wing’ your wedding vows…

Carolyne Braid 3 minute read Preview

Don’t ‘wing’ your wedding vows…

Carolyne Braid 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

Nuptial couples have been moving away from more traditional weddings and choosing to create something that is uniquely their own. Shawna Peterson of Weddingbella shares some quick tips for both couples and guests on how to navigate these new waters.

“Some of the biggest faux pas I have seen at weddings are when couples attempt to ‘wing’ their vows,” Shawna said. “Whether they’ve forgotten them at home, thought they had time to prepare them the day of or wanted their vows to be an impromptu disclosure of sentiment, this has generally not gone over well during the ceremony. With the spotlight directly on the couple, our natural reaction is to freeze up.”

She recommends that you prepare ahead of time and practise, so you can share your promises with ease on your big day.

Another trend is having a family or friend act as your officiant.

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Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

Supplied photo

Shawna Peterson of Weddingbella officiates a wedding.

How kidney disease affects nutrition

Lisa Lagasse 3 minute read Preview

How kidney disease affects nutrition

Lisa Lagasse 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

Patients diagnosed with kidney disease are often instructed to follow a special diet. The kidneys function as the body’s filter removing toxins that build up in our system. When they lose function, these toxins accumulate, making patients ill and sometimes even causing death.

There are five stages of kidney disease. At stages 1 and 2, no restrictions are necessary except to eat healthier and control weight. By the time a patient is at stages 3-5, and having dialysis, dietary restrictions are often required, depending on appetite and weight. Potassium, phosphorus, sodium and fluids may need to be adjusted based on the patient’s status. Potassium is a mineral found in many foods and beverages which affects heart and muscle function. When kidneys work properly, potassium is kept in check in our bloodstream. In kidney failure, potassium builds up and can cause heart irregularities ,or stop your heart.

Examples of high potassium foods include processed meats and foods; bananas, oranges, melons, tomatoes, dried fruits, lentils and pulses, chocolate and whole grains. New studies have shown that processed foods have the most significant impact on potassium levels because they are more easily absorbed. Phosphorus is another mineral that can build up usually in the skin, blood vessels and organs. Too much phosphorus can affect circulation, bone health and itching.

Phosphorus is found in many foods, but dairy items contain high amounts, so these products are often limited in kidney diets. Again, phosphorus found in additives used in processed foods is more readily absorbed, like potassium, and therefore such foods must be avoided. Many patients will be on phosphate binders, such as calcium carbonate, to draw phosphorus out of their food.

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Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

Dreamstime

Chronic kidney disease can be treated medically, accompanied by dietary adaptations.

Unique run reaches 100-event milestone

Kirby Gilman 3 minute read Preview

Unique run reaches 100-event milestone

Kirby Gilman 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

Winnipeg’s Churchill Parkway ‘parkrun’ celebrated its 100th run recently — a milestone for the event, that started here in July 2019 and is one of the over 2,000 weekly parkruns held in 22 countries across six continents.

After the 100th parkrun, first-timers and regulars stayed to enjoy hot chocolate, veggies and fruit, and cookies, which Dennis Cunningham, parkrun event director, admitted was the most popular snack.

Cunningham said he was one of five Winnipeggers who collaborated to bring parkrun here. His first experience with parkrun came on a family vacation in the United Kingdom. Rick Harrison’s parkrun connection was made through an online running group. Like Cunningham, Harrison regularly volunteersat Churchill Parkway, taking on various tasks, including timing. Others who helped with the startup had attended parkruns as far away as Australia.

Registering online for a free parkrun barcode gives runners and walkers access to parkruns anywhere. Like all parkruns, Winnipeg’s is held every Saturday at 9 a.m. The five-kilometre course uses the scenic Churchill Parkway between the Red River and Churchill Drive. Runners, walkers, young and old, and those with dogs and strollers all take part. The start area is where Ashland Street meets Churchill Drive.

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Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

Photo by Kirby Gilman

Runners and walkers enjoy Churchill Parkway ‘parkruns’ every Saturday at 9 a.m

Royalwood welcomes bargain hunters June 3

Tanya Misseghers 3 minute read Preview

Royalwood welcomes bargain hunters June 3

Tanya Misseghers 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

The Royalwood community garage sale has traditionally been held on the last weekend in May. Over the pandemic, Sage Creek claimed that time-frame. So Royalwood residents and organizers have now chosen the first Saturday in June as our date — which falls on June 3 this year.

The event will begin at 8:30 a.m. Watch for any home with the garage door open and you will find treasures galore. Some residents may be open for business on Friday, June 2 but the officialsale takes place on the Saturday.

Lori Rosche, one of the administrators of the Royalwood Facebook group which has helped to organize the event, is excited to see all the activity.

“It’s a great way to meet your neighbours,” Rosche said. “I’ve lived in the area for 20 years and it brings a smile to my face to see so many families out and about.”

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Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

Photo by Tanya Misseghers

Debbie Pfiefer Asprey is ready for the Royalwood community garage sale on Saturday, June 3.

Celebrating 100 years of dance

John Hindle 3 minute read Preview

Celebrating 100 years of dance

John Hindle 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

The Royal Scottish Country Dance Society, headquartered in Edinburgh, Scotland, is dedicated to promoting Scottish dancing and music to present and future generations. It has been around since 1923.

The Winnipeg Scottish Country Dance Society began in 1959 when Archie Nixon and David Williams, both newly settled in Winnipeg, decided to form a group. With a leap of faith and an advertisement in the Winnipeg Tribune, the society was born, receiving branch status in May of 1963, with two certified teachers and membership of 60.

You can do the math — 2023 marks the 100th and 60th anniversaries of these two societies.

The focus, both locally and of the parent society, is fun, fitness and friendship. Scottish Country Dance has societies in over 40 countries, and many have participated in a special initiative to mark the 100th anniversary. Scottish dancers around the world have been filmed performing a dance called the Flying Scotsman. The Winnipeg group danced at Union Station on Main Street. Video was sent to Scotland, where a montage of dancers from across the globe was compiled.

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Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

Supplied photo

The Winnipeg Scottish Country Dance Society celebrated its 60th anniversary last month, along with the 100th anniversary of the Royal Scottish Country Dance Society.

It takes a village of love…

Laurie Gydé 3 minute read Preview

It takes a village of love…

Laurie Gydé 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

When 38-year-old Crystal Lynn Lowe’s cancer spread like wildfire, she asked her cousin Nancy Squire and husband Jeremy Squire to promise to keep her four girls together.

Crystal succumbed to an aggressive form of cancer in April. Three weeks later, the Squires, married just seven years, who always longed for children of their own, applied for legal guardianship of Crystal Lynn’s girls, aged 13, 10, seven and

two.

“It felt like someone above knew we needed them as much as they needed us,” Nancy said. “It’s been a blessing.”

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Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

Supplied photo

Nancy and Jeremy Squires are now raising Miley, Hailey, Mariah and Abigal, the four daughters of Nancy’s late cousin, Crystal Lynn Lowe.

High schoolers to compete in big science fairs

Terry Duguid 3 minute read Preview

High schoolers to compete in big science fairs

Terry Duguid 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

Two students from Fort Richmond Collegiate in South Winnipeg are representing their community at national and international science competitions this month.

16-year-old Keerthan Kamala Krishnamoorthy will represent Team Canada at the 2023 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair, held in Dallas, Tex. He is one of eight students selected by Youth Science Canada to represent the nation at this world-renowned competition.

Keerthan’s project – called “Detection of Harmful Microorganisms in Drinking Water using Deep Learning” – aims to make safe drinking water more accessible. In his research proposal, Keerthan plans to make a mobile phone app that can take a photo of water, analyze the photo, and determine if it is safe to drink. The app requires the use of a paper microscope to magnify the water sample, which Keerthan says is inexpensive and widely accessible around the world.

Another Fort Richmond student, 12th grader Annika Paliwal, is heading to Edmonton to represent Team Bison Manitoba at the Canada-Wide Science Fair, hosted by Youth Science Canada.

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Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

Supplied photo

Dr. Anju Bajaj and students at the Bison Regional Science Fair, held last month at Holy Cross School.

Track renewal collaboration

Brian Mayes 3 minute read Preview

Track renewal collaboration

Brian Mayes 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

In a typical running relay, four runners must pass the baton between them before the final runner gets over the finish line. After a four-year process, I am pleased to say that four elected representatives from this area have collaborated to fund a running-track renewal project in Windsor Park.

The current ‘track’ is a 300-metre dirt oval that, we think, dates to the early 1970s and which, with ongoing weed growth, appears to be returning to the elements. After the City of Winnipeg funded a new 400-metre track at Victor Mager School in St. Vital in 2019, I became interested in the track shared by Collège Béliveau and Windsor Park Collegiate, as students from new parts of my ward, such as Sage Creek, Royalwood and Bonavista attend these schools.

In 2019, it was estimated that it would cost $503,000 to pave and rubberize the track. By 2022, this estimate had increased to $600,0000. Meanwhile, tracks have been rebuilt in Garden City and River East while we attempted to get funding for Béliveau/WPC.

The Louis Riel School Division expressed support for the project back in 2019. In 2022, the federal government provided about $7.5 million through its Economic Response and Recovery Plan (ERRP) to be allocated by city councillors across the city. I have used my ward’s share of these funds, with the support of MP Dan Vandal, to fund an upgrade of Fountainview Park in Royalwood, and modernization of Bonivital Soccer Club’s clubhouse at St. Vital Memorial Park, on Fermor Avenue. Earlier this year, Minister Vandal authorized $285,000 in federal funds for the track project, and I have added $15,000 from city funds.

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Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

Supplied photo

Collège Béliveau principal Andrea Kolody, MLA Audrey Gordon; Brian Mayes; Béliveau track team members (with their coach), MLA Andrew Smith are pictured on the dirt running track that will be paved and rubberized this summer.

Grants to help our community bounce back

Scott Johnston 3 minute read Preview

Grants to help our community bounce back

Scott Johnston 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

Spring has finally sprung in our community and families are coming out of their winter hibernation to attend garage sales, youth soccer and baseball games and creek cleanups.

Hockey in our community has concluded for the season, but it is my privilege to congratulate the St. James Canucks for finishing their 2022-23 season with their second straight Manitoba Major Junior Hockey League championship win. Congratulations to all players and coaching staff for bringing the trophy back to home ice at the Ab McDonald Memorial Arena. Well done, Canucks!

With spring comes the provincial government announcements for the Green Team and the Building Sustainable Communities grants. I am thrilled that these funds will provide program support to so many local projects in our community.

The Green Team grant funding will strengthen our communities and help to grow our local economy by employing youth and promoting green projects this summer. I am pleased to announce the Assiniboia recipients are:

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Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

Free Press file photo

Through the Building Sustainable Communities grant program, the Manitoba Jockey Club at the Assiniboia Downs will receive $208,381 for accessibility upgrades to improve vertical lifts and washrooms.

calendrier communautaire 233-ALLÔ

Calendrier communautaire 1 minute read Preview

calendrier communautaire 233-ALLÔ

Calendrier communautaire 1 minute read Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

24 mai • Soirée de jeux vidéo – Tournoi 1 • Patio 340

25 mai • Open Mic avec Barney Morin • Patio 340

25 mai • Vernissage de l’exposition Exploration • Galerie d’art du CCFM

25 mai • Cercle de perlage au Salon Empire • CCFM

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Wednesday, May. 24, 2023

Supplied photo

Barney Morin will host an open mic night at Le Patio 340 on May 25.

Explore history during Doors Open Winnipeg

RoseAnna Schick 3 minute read Preview

Explore history during Doors Open Winnipeg

RoseAnna Schick 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 17, 2023

Visiting historic sites is one of my favourite things to do when travelling. I find it fascinating to get glimpses of the people and places that helped lay the foundations wherever I happen to be.

It’s also interesting and eye-opening to go back in time in your hometown, in order to gain a greater understanding of and appreciation for the place you call home.

Here in Winnipeg, we have a trove of heritage treasures that are architecturally, historically and culturally significant. Doors Open Winnipeg, organized by Heritage Winnipeg, is a designated weekend that allows visitors to take free tours of unique locales all over the city.

This year’s 20th anniversary event happens May 27 and 28, with 50 buildings and a dozen outdoor spaces open to visitors. All you have to do is review the doorsopenwinnipeg.ca website, decide where you want to go, note the opening times and policies, and then show up. Tickets are not required, but some locations do request pre-registration (with instructions listed on their page). Several options are designated as being wheelchair accessible.

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Wednesday, May. 17, 2023

Ruth Bonneville / Winnipeg Free Press

The Seven Oaks Museum is one of 50 historic and heritage sites that will be throwing its doors open to visitors during Doors Open Winnipeg, May 27 and 28.

Learn about energy efficiency programs

Helen Lepp Friesen 3 minute read Preview

Learn about energy efficiency programs

Helen Lepp Friesen 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 17, 2023

In the coming months, the Manitoba Environmental Industries Association, in partnership with Efficiency Manitoba, will host a series of online webinars for homeowners in Manitoba.

Apart from providing practical tips for improving energy efficiency in their homes, the goal of the webinars will be to educate homeowners about the existing rebates, grants, incentives and up interest-free loans of up to $40,000 available for energy efficiency upgrades through Efficiency Manitoba and the federal Greener Homes program. Homeowners will also learn about upcoming technologies, such as heat pumps and solar panels, as well as solutions to common issues in their homes, such as air quality and condensation on windows.

One of the speakers in these webinars will be a registered energy adviser (EA). EAs are specialists in rating home energy efficiency, and they provide guidance to homeowners interested in improving their home’s efficiency. EAs are registered by National Resources Canada to deliver EnerGuide rating systems (ERS) for new or existing homes. In short, an energy adviser is a third-party consultant who works closely with builders, renovators, and homeowners to improve and measure the energy efficiency of a home and help reduce energy consumption through better practices and using energy-efficient technology.

Local register EA Nicholas Witoski enjoys talking to homeowners about practical solutions to making their homes more energy efficient. He is also excited about providing information about the free programs available.

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Wednesday, May. 17, 2023

Photo by Helen Lepp Friesen

Registered energy adviser Nicholas Witoski at work.

Apprenticeships a viable option for students

Adriano Magnifico 3 minute read Preview

Apprenticeships a viable option for students

Adriano Magnifico 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 17, 2023

Decisions. Decisions. Decisions.

With high school graduation ceremonies just around the corner, students will leave the friendly confines of their schools and begin new chapters in their lives.

Some will go to university or community college; others will go directly to work. Many will try to figure out a next move, stymied, unsure what’s available to them.

They may not be aware of an opportunity right under their noses in which the tuition costs are cheap, the wages excellent, and the jobs plentiful.

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Wednesday, May. 17, 2023

Photo by Adriano Magnifico

Shaylean Skye, a student in ATC’s automotive program, appreciates the program’s approach to learning that could lead to a trade and employment.

Juneberry offers brunch… and maybe more

Andrea Geary 3 minute read Preview

Juneberry offers brunch… and maybe more

Andrea Geary 3 minute read Wednesday, May. 17, 2023

Juneberry, at 531 St. Mary’s Rd., opened in July 2020 — likely the worst time to launch a new restaurant in recent memory.

Owner Dana Cherski said it was an uphill battle to start a new business just when the pandemic was resulting in government-ordered closures and people were mainly stayinghome.

Cherski said Juneberry’s patio was what got the business through the first few months.

“It definitely helped us through the pandemic.”

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Wednesday, May. 17, 2023

Photo by Andrea Geary

Owner Dana Cherski (at left) and chef Carter Bouchard display some of the menu items at Juneberry, which is located in The Riverside at 531 St. Mary’s Rd.

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