A busy month of seasonal celebrations

Every winter the Grace Hospital Foundation hosts its Winter Celebration at the Grace Hospital. Over 3,000 white lights were illuminated on the hospital’s Tree of Lights in memory of our loved ones and of the hope we have for all hospitalized patients. On Friday, Dec. 9, I joined newly elected Mayor Scott Gillingham, Foundation chairman Jeff Coleman, Foundation executive director Jon Einarson and many community members for a fun-filled evening featuring two Christmas movies and a magnificent fireworks display. A photo booth with Santa and Mrs. Claus was a huge hit and there was plenty of hot chocolate for all.

This year I was happy to serve up delicious pancakes to community residents at Assiniboia West and Heritage Victoria Community Clubs for their Breakfast with Santa events. It was so nice to share in these happy family gatherings full of friendship and good cheer. A special thank you to club presidents Courtney Czezowski and Sharon Groombridge and all the volunteers who worked so tirelessly to make these special events possible.

On Dec. 19, I was pleased to present Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee medals to outstanding Manitobans who have made exceptional contributions to the community and our province. This medal celebrates the 70th anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s accession to the throne. Congratulations to Munther Zeid, Keith Dangerfield, Jim Siwicki, Mike Friesen, Hazel Johnston, Dave Schioler, Dickson Gould, Jerry Jones, Victoria Brooker, and Mike Mooney, all of whom have made monumental contributions to Assiniboia.

Despite the colder weather Manitobans are a hardy bunch. My constituency of Assiniboia has a lot to offer those families wishing to venture outside during their Christmas break. With the recent and plentiful snowfall, we can enjoy sledding at Assiniboine Park, cross-country skiing at the Living Prairie Museum or we can check out our local rink times for an outdoor skate. Please don’t forget to take a warm car ride through Canad Inn’s Winter Wonderland at Red River Exhibition Park. It is open daily from 6 to 10 p.m. until Jan. 7 featuring over one million festive lights and sights of the season over it 2.5-kilometre course.

As Manitobans we are proud to be amongst the most generous people in the country. During the holiday season let us be reminded of those less fortunate than ourselves and carry on this giving spirit.

I would like to wish Merry Christmas, happy holidays, and happy new year to all my Assiniboia constituents. May 2023 be our best year ever!

Scott Johnston
Assiniboia constituency report

Scott Johnston is the PC MLA for Assiniboia.

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