PembinaValley

Fastpitch fans are in for a treat this week. From August 13th to 17th, the Pembina Valley is playing host to the 2025 U15 Canadian Fastpitch Championships, bringing together elite young athletes from across Canada to the Morden/Winkler area.  

Plum Coulee is home to a unique way to connect with history that is also emblematic of the region it represents — the Plum Coulee Elevator Museum, which is housed in a grain elevator in the town.  

Road crews are out and active in the area. It’s that time of year.  

With that in mind, Public Works and Facilities Manager for the City of Winkler Cliff Wall is asking drivers to be alert, patient, and proactive in keeping everyone safe. 

“I would say just everybody wants to go home safely… I think it's everybody's responsibility, whether it's the workers that are doing the work or people driving or pedestrians,” said Wall. 

On the evening of August 8th, the Winkler Fire Department was dispatched to Pembina Avenue following reports of an electrical fire involving a hydro line. 

Fire Chief Richard Paetzold explained that the call originated after a resident noticed smoke coming from their kitchen. Upon investigation, firefighters discovered a burnt wire on a utility pole that had caused power outages in the nearby Linden Drive and 8th Street areas. 

Livestock farms often need to use their land carefully in order to get the best results for their animals, which is why the Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment is sharing some tips on good grazing practices. Trevor Lennox, a Range Management Extension Specialist, talks about one of the biggest potential mistakes a farm operation can make: overgrazing.

Bringing mini-donuts, ferris wheels, classic cars, live music, and more to our community, the Winkler Harvest Festival once again proved to be one of southern Manitoba’s most beloved summer traditions, drawing thousands over the weekend for live music, food, family activities, and the unmistakable spirit of community. 

With mosquito numbers on the rise and the risk of West Nile virus high in Winkler, we spoke with local pest expert Gilles-Lambert of Gilles-Lambert Pest Control about how to prevent infestations by removing breeding grounds and hiding spots.  

“Basically, they love standing water,” Lambert said. “When there's lots of rain, there's a lot more standing water. If you have the ability to get rid of that standing water, it will help tremendously.” 

Funeral For:  Gerry Bergen 
Funeral Date: August 15, 2025 
Gerry Bergen, 65, of Winkler passed away Sunday, August 3rd at Portage, Wisconsin. He is survived by his wife Ruth, 2 daughters, 1 son, and their families and his father Peter. He was predeceased by his mother Freda. 
Cremation has taken place. 
A memorial service for Gerry Bergen will be held Friday, August 15th at 2pm at Winkler Emmanuel Mennonite Church.  
Donations may be made to The Bunker or a charity of one’s choice. 
Arrangements by Wiebe Funeral Home, Winkler.  

The Winnipeg Goldeyes (36-46) combined dominant pitching with a power surge at the plate to claim a 7-2 victory over the Lincoln Saltdogs (31-49) Sunday afternoon at Blue Cross Park, securing the three-game series win.
 
Winnipeg struck early in the bottom of the second inning. Matthew Warkentin launched his 12th home run of the season over the right-field wall, and moments later, Keshawn Lynch delivered a two-run blast to left with Tripp Clark aboard to make it 3-0.
 

Funeral For:  Dorothy LePage nee Pasoluko
Funeral Date: August 18, 2025 
Dorothy LePage nee Pasoluko, 91, of Morden passed away Saturday, August 9th at Notre Dame Hospital. She is survived by 3 sons. She was predeceased by her husband Maurice. 
The Mass of Resurrection for Dorothy LePage nee Pasoluko will be held Monday, August 18th at 2pm at St. John the Evangelist Roman Catholic Church, Morden with burial at Hillside Cemetery. 
Viewing will be at the church one hour prior to the service.