“No Ordinary Dog” hot dog stand fosters employment and community connections

Portage ARC Industries Inc.’s “No Ordinary Dog” hot dog stand is far from ordinary.

The sizzling initiative empowers adults with mental disabilities to gain hands-on work experience while raising funds for the organization. Now in its second year, the stand has become a hub of community support, serving up burgers, chilli-topped dogs, and smiles.

Skills, snacks, and second chances

Tara Ryzner, Executive Director of ARC Industries, highlights the program’s dual impact.

Despite a polarizing election, poll suggests Canadians don't want a two-party system

While the recent federal election turned into a tight race between the Liberals and Conservatives that left other parties trailing far behind, a new poll suggests most Canadians don't want the country end up with a two-party system.

The poll of over 1,600 Canadians, conducted by Leger Marketing for the Association for Canadian Studies between May 1 and 3, suggests only 21 per cent of Canadians think the country would be better off with a system where two parties dominate the political landscape.

Province to end 24-hour security at Oak Tree Towers - petition to be submitted

Portage la Prairie MLA Jeff Bereza met with residents of Oak Tree Towers last Friday after learning 24-hour security at the Manitoba Housing complex for seniors will end June 24. The facility, which houses 55+ residents, has relied on around-the-clock safety personnel for the past month to address crime and vandalism. Bereza pledged to challenge the decision in the Legislative Assembly today (Monday).

“What is the thinking behind this?”

Bereza says the move undermines progress made at the building.

Portage sees record-breaking heat on Mother's Day; rain on the way later this week

Southern Manitoba endured record-setting heat over the weekend, as a heat warning remains in effect for the Portage region.

Portage la Prairie and several other communities experienced temperatures well above seasonal norms, with Portage reaching 31.2°C on Sunday—just edging past its 1976 record of 31.0°C.

Eric Dykes, a meteorologist with Environment and Climate Change Canada, confirms the heat has affected much of the region.

La Verendrye School gears up for track and field season

Spring is in full swing at La Verendrye School (LVS), and that means a busy schedule for both students and staff, according to physical education teacher Mitch Nelissen. The middle years students are currently preparing for their annual track and field day, set for May 28.

"Our kids get pretty excited for it. It's just a fun, relaxed day for them. They have to do four events and for the rest of the day they get to hang out with their friends and just chill," Nelissen said.

Yellowquill students help shape future of local playground

A group of Grade 1 and Grade 6 students from Yellowquill School are leaving their mark on Portage la Prairie—literally.

Back in October, teachers Kristen Harley and Kelly Gretsinger launched a "learning buddies" partnership between their classes. What started as a classroom mentorship program quickly grew into something much bigger when Mayor Sharilyn Knox got involved. She shared news of the city's upcoming green space improvements and saw an opportunity for youth input.