Portage

Almost one in four Canadians were directly affected by extreme weather events over the past year, a new poll suggests.

The Leger poll — released as Canada copes with its second-worst wildfire season on record — says 23 per cent of Canadians who responded said they were personally affected by extreme weather events like heat waves, floods, fires and tornadoes over the last 12 months.

Update - 9 p.m.

There are no watches or warnings in effect for southern Manitoba

Original story:

Conditions were favourable for the development of thunderstorms capable of producing large hail and strong, gusty winds.

Hazards:

- Large hail (quarter to toonie size)

- Strong gusty winds (potential gusts exceeding 90 km/h)

Severe thunderstorm watches are issued when conditions are favourable for the development of thunderstorms capable of producing damaging hail, wind or rain.

Oakville School took the classroom outdoors yesterday as students gathered to celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day with traditional teachings, storytelling, and a hands-on exploration of sacred medicinal plants. 

Kelsey Brooks, a teacher at Oakville, says the celebration is part of an annual tradition that aims to nurture lasting relationships between students and Indigenous knowledge.

“We celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day every year. It's June 21st technically, for the summer solstice, but that's on the weekend this year,” Brooks explains.

Sixteen-year-old Beau Chartrand of St. Laurent is set to take on the international stage once again as he prepares to represent Canada at the U17 Pan American Championships in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, from June 19th to 22nd.

Chartrand earns a spot on the Canadian national team for the second straight year and is looking to build on his momentum after winning bronze at last year’s Pan Ams in the Dominican Republic.

He secured his spot after winning the Canadian team trials and Nationals.

The City of Portage la Prairie is kicking off its annual water main flushing program later this month, aiming to improve water quality and maintain the city’s infrastructure.

The work begins the night of June 22 and will run through August 15, rotating through different areas of the city on a weekly basis. Flushing will take place overnight from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. to minimize disruptions.

What residents should expect

Karly Friesen, director of utility for the city, says the flushing is routine maintenance that helps remove buildup inside the pipes.

Red River College Polytechnic (RRC Polytech) in Portage la Prairie marked a significant milestone last week as its Research Partnerships & Innovation (RPI) division celebrates 20 years of bridging industry and academia.

An event held on campus showcased how RPI empowers local businesses and entrepreneurs through accessible applied research, turning concepts into market-ready solutions.

The annual coaching carousel has seen changes to hockey coaching staffs across North America, and the re-signing of Head Coach and General Manager Blake Spiller has seen some changes behind his bench as well.

Associate Coach Paul Harland is stepping away from the bench to take on the role of Assistant General Manager. He outlines what his key objectives will be in the position.

Manitoba Agriculture is spreading the word for cattle producers about healthy soil use, cover cropping, corn grazing, and solar-powered watering systems.